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BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum
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Subject: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 31 Oct 08 - 10:20 PM October is past (almost) and we're entering the re-cluttering time of year. Will we be able to resist the holiday trappings that encroach on flat surfaces, will we be able to identify the traditional objects that we actually never, ever use, but have likewise never gotten around to redistributing through the family or community or to the wider collecting world? What can we recycle? My holidays will be different this year. Credit cards are out. Gifts will be consumable or eminently practical. Recycling is a viable option, especially of family things that can be redistributed. My goal is to not lose ground on the work I've done this year. And I'll continue to list things on eBay to move out more of the rest of it. How long will it take to get ready for the Thanksgiving meal, and what kind of shape do you want your house to be in for the occasion? Will you have family and friends over? Will you be able to host the meal in a completely cleared up house? Let's keep moving forward. Kat, keep writing, but drop us a line when you can. Maybe we'll inspire you. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 01 Nov 08 - 12:59 PM I've been contemplating how to clear out some little pockets of paper in the kitchen. Most of them are phone lists and recipes. To house the recipes I pulled out a catalog box of my mother's that she put 3 x 5 recipe cards and folded magazine in. I thought about shoving mine in the back of it, or emptying out her old clippings and starting fresh, but I started reading them . . . wow! She didn't cook all of these things when I was a kid, and some of the recipes are early multi-cultural adaptations that I have better and probably more authentic versions of now. But it dawns on me that an evening of cooking a few of Mom's recipes from this box would be a lot of fun. So I'm setting that box aside and instead I'll get myself a three-ring binder and some pages that hold different sized files (like photo pages) and stick my various printouts and cards in it. I'm going to fix the dripping flapper in my back bathroom today, and if I get my act together, I'm going to put in the post for my martin house for next spring. My plan is to continue working on things that are less expensive or that I have the parts for already (I have the bird house, the post, and the concrete). I wish I was writing a book. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Liz the Squeak Date: 01 Nov 08 - 07:57 PM I could have another bash at clearing some of the junk out of this room, but there are some apples in the kitchen that need making into pie.... LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 02 Nov 08 - 09:12 AM Liz, one of the items I was looking for yesterday was a box for various sizes and shapes of recipes. I found one at the Container Store, a Swedish plastic box of some kind with lots of rivets, but that will hold this stuff and can be cleaned up if need be. My mom's old thick cardboard file boxes (with a black and gray patterned print, a standard kind of office file from the 1950s or 60s) is pretty grungy from exposure to kitchen splashes over the years. I turned off the toilet tank water last night and let the insides air-dry. This morning I put in the new seat (with silicone gel) and will soon turn on the water in a small but important bathroom moment of victory--when I can stop listening to the tank give the rush of water refilling the top inch or so every few minutes. Night and day. Drives you nuts after a while and doesn't help the water bill. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Charmion Date: 02 Nov 08 - 11:09 AM New safety feature in the house: non-skid matting under three rugs in high-traffic areas. Replaced expensive but non-operational central vacuum cleaner system (miles and miles of heavy hose) with equally expensive but thoroughly guaranteed canister vacuum cleaner (has HEPA filter and is actually not millstone heavy). Central vac listed on local for-sale website for parts. Replaced three infuriatingly ineffectual lamps with much brighter ones from IKEA -- cheap, too. Rejects are handsome, if dim, so they will go on the White Elephant table at the up-coming church bazaar. Turned back the clocks before going to bed -- first time I've managed that in about 20 years. Actually arrived at church on time. Go, me. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maeve Date: 02 Nov 08 - 11:39 AM Go, you, Charmoin :) My True Love cut down a long plywood table so it will fit in the kitchen when I need a worksurface, yet will fold up and be stowed out of the way when I don't. He's also continuing to winterize and stabilize the exterior of this old house of ours. We have changed most of the clocks. I've been sorting and putting away the various and sundry department in the kitchen, painting a child's easel and a lightweight child's chalkboard with several coats of chalkboard (blackboard) paint. The easel will become a signboard for the farmstand and for yard sales, while the little chalkboard will be fastened to the fridge with magnets for use as a grocery and To Do list. When I sit here to check on email and such I have gradually made my through many of the files of correspondence, newspaper articles, and other treasures from my dad's estate. Today I was able to reduce the day's pile from eight files to one. I'll need to reduce and organize his records more thoroughly when time and tears allow, but some treasures tucked into the files make it a task of discovery more than lamentation. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Bat Goddess Date: 02 Nov 08 - 12:10 PM Books for library sale in boxes by the door. Will check a few more shelves to see if there's anything else I can donate without re-reading. I'll get them in the car to deliver on Tuesday -- my Tuesday (day off) rounds are 1-VOTE!!!, 2-Drop off books for library sale, 3-Get teeth cleaned at dentist, 4-Have a spinach & feta calzone at a place I haven't been able to stop at for almost 2 years, 5-Walk on the beach!!! My boss is going to be working at the Bangor, ME store for the week, so the rest of MY week will be nutzoid. On Thursday I open at JCPenney Optical, then later in the afternoon, head to Sears Optical to close there at 8:00. Loooong day. (Then open at Sears the next morning.) One good thing about the job is I'm actually WEARING some of the clothes I stubbornly (frugally) refused to de-clutter over the years. I just knew I'd need them again! Linn |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maeve Date: 02 Nov 08 - 12:50 PM Sounds like a busy and fruitful time for you, Linn. How encouraging it is that not only can you wear those clothes you like so much but also be able to treat yourself to a meal out and to a walk on the beach! "Moving, moving, moving, keep those dogies moving...Rawhide!" |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 02 Nov 08 - 08:40 PM Goodonya, Linn, and you, too, maeve! I cleared off my desk, again...clearing the decks of all distractions except the cats...I'll write better that way.:-) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 02 Nov 08 - 10:01 PM Having discovered voles or mice of some small roundish sort are living in the front yard compost pile, I let the dogs have a go at de-cluttering it this evening. They smelled all of the little paths and were kind of hard on the garden, but when I got them to the compost they dug and snorted and climbed and had a great time, though they didn't catch anything. But these two served notice--move out, or we'll dig you out! We'll try it again tomorrow. ;) I'm so proud of myself for my inexpensive little fixes around here. The toilet runs no more and the microwave lights up again. All of those smoke detector batteries were replaced and the units tested. And the piece de resistance: I reorganized all of the cables that plug into the various players and television in the front room. Somehow things got out of order after I turned off the Dish Network. I finally realized that the television programed to tune in to channel 3 was the only thing missing. My HD digital converter box now plugs into the VCR, and the VCR, the DVD, and the Dish DVR (I can't record with it now, but I can watch the stuff on the hard drive) plug into the RF box and that plugs into the TV. If it sounds tangled, it was. The kitchen is a bit messy after dinner, but I'll clear up before I head to bed. Oh--I've also been laying my Secret Santa/Santee groundwork! SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: mouldy Date: 03 Nov 08 - 04:19 AM Peter (the man who "does") is coming this morning to start building me a cupboard around my gas boiler, which will also have storage under for some stuff. If he will finish off my wardrobe for me before he starts, I can start to de-clutter the small bedroom at last. Today will be a bit of a trial, as I have a storming headache. I will go stick a 4Head gel patch on, and take some strong painkillers shortly. Hopefully the tidying up will take my mind off it! Have decided to cut down the younger apple tree in the garden - the kids grew it from a pip, and it does fruit, giving very crisp eaters/cookers, which are quite small if not thinned out. It's too high for me to do that, and so most of the apples are fairly useless or unreachable, given my neck and shoulder problems. It is also going to grow too big for the garden, as it is not grafted onto any dwarfing rootstock. I will try and carve some of the apples from it to make little heads, and will keep them as stock, if they work. Now I just need a willing bloke to come and fell it! Andrea |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Bat Goddess Date: 03 Nov 08 - 08:56 AM Ya gotta do little nice things for yourself (and for other people) so you don't slit your wrists. Linn |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 03 Nov 08 - 09:23 AM If I had decluttered more, better, sooner, more ruthlessly-- I would not now be sitting in a pile of STUFF that accumulated over the crazy-busy weekend just ended. But in the middle of that weekend I "saw" where a whole corner full of kids' books is going to go, plus the benchy shelf they sit on that I NEED to use at church for our music binders. I hope I didn't declut all the shipping boxes I saved.... ~Susan |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: MAG Date: 03 Nov 08 - 11:54 AM I forgot to measure the gasket, SRS -- sorry, sorry; I promise I will do it tomorrow. With help, I decluttered yard trash until the trash can was full. I decluttered most of the dishes out of the sink. I decluttered most of that box of shat on clothes through the wash machine; they actually smell OK, with the help of odormute. I wish I could declutter to wherever my cell phone is hiding. I need to declutter my desk to the point I can find the cord to my digital camera. I think I need to declutter one kitten to the vet; I think she is preggers -- just what I was trying to avoid. I hope none of you have strong feelings about aborting a cat. I have been using my new SAD light for two days. Wow! I see spots after a half hour. I'm supposed to use it in the morning, but I don't know if that is before or after it gets light. Today is a gray rainy day, and after my half hour, it looked so dark in here I ran around and turned on all the lamps. I hope to declutter the knot out of my neck at the physical therapists' this afternoon. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 03 Nov 08 - 01:01 PM declutter one kitten to the vet; I think she is preggers Our SPCA had a policy that if you bring in a momcat with all babies, they'll place the babies and give you a spay certificate for the mom. They just needed to see the full teats to be sure the kittens were all there and not a hoaxy fraud to get a free spay. You might look into that in your area and let her bear them if you know the whole litter will go where it needs to go. Kittens are so much more adoptable than adult cats, so it offers a little more hopeful outcome. Or you can let her bear them and just surrender them to the shelter, if it's a tad late to abort them. ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 03 Nov 08 - 01:11 PM This just in-- SO COOL. I Freecycle less and less these days, but sometimes I get a "nudge" to look into particular requests and so I just found a GREAT fit-- like the chainlink I surprisingly got that I needed SO badly. I think we just FCed Hardi's used road bike to exactly the right person, and a hockey fan at that-- in other words, another potential FRIEND not related to church stuff, and someone Hardi can cycle with when we are in his area. We hadn't found the good spots for cycling there, yet. ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 03 Nov 08 - 02:28 PM MAG, it's difficult to avoid that state once a kitten gets to be a certain age. We had a stray who had the same thing happen when we took her in to be spayed. There was no way we were going to go through the whole have kittens/give them away route. This cat was so lucky to find a home herself, she was a stray out in the apartment parking log. (Now, several years later as a fat fat fat calico, she's on a strict diet, trying to take a few pounds off, and it is beginning to work, but it isn't easy!) I'm taking extra garden produce over to the office this afternoon, if I can get out of the house. A bucket full of eggplants for a few of my "regulars," and some carrots for the friend who, when I asked if he wanted an eggplant said "well, I guess you can steam just about any vegetable, right?" I'll save the second-tier veggies for good cooks, and let this friend deal with carrots and onions. :) SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 04 Nov 08 - 12:51 AM I offloaded produce, picked up two of Sam's Club great rotisserie chickens for dinner, swung by my ex's house to pick up my son--and he was in a lot of abdominal pain. Ended up putting the chickens in that fridge and taking son to ER (a trip to my house was out of the way). The pain passed (this happened once before) and I think it is, to put it delicately, not enough roughage in his diet. Imagine that occasional really painful shifting in the gut--fast moving material behind slow moving--you get the drift--lasting for several hours. However, it cleared up before we got in to the doctor, so we left (after three hours of waiting). But I was hoping someone would see us while it was happening to confirm my diagnosis. An apple a day--at least! I'll pick up the birds tomorrow and we'll reheat for dinner and have great leftovers. I can kick back and enjoy the election returns without having to cook dinner. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: freda underhill Date: 04 Nov 08 - 08:31 AM spent the evening de-cluttering AND mending .. but hope to wake up to the biggest declutter of all..... bye bye George!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :-) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 04 Nov 08 - 09:44 AM Here here! or Hear Hear! whatever! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 04 Nov 08 - 12:21 PM HOT TIP I discovered today that there is a perfection of "how much stuff to have," for each of us I think, where it works like this. You've had a crazy-busy [insert time frame for your situation], and you have neither emptied nor reloaded the dishwasher. You didn't put away the clean clothes, nor load the washing machine with the pile of dirty ones. Dirty dishes from the snack you had just before you crashed (the last 4 nights in a row) are all over the LR, kitchen, everywhere-- along with other crap you unloaded from the car. Get the picture? But because you have JUST as much of it ALL as you NEED, you find what you need (clean) before you run out of stuff, and before you can put it all away properly you have worn it, eaten off it, etc., obviating the need to have put it away at all. Then when things calm down you just wash the dirty stuff and THEN put it all away, nice. The trick is having enough and no more, and balance in your life that allows for the catch-up between crazy-busy cycles. For me the linchpin is the laundry-- I MUST WASH THE CLOTHES, even if they never do get folded, so I can keep putting on fresh/appropriate stuff for the next round of the day. ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 04 Nov 08 - 01:10 PM Yeah, freda!!! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: mouldy Date: 04 Nov 08 - 01:26 PM She's just described my kitchen! Got some stuff transferred into the new wardrobe this afternoon, but the downstairs cupboard won't be done until this time next week, as we decided to put louvre doors on it, and Peter's had to order them. He said it would be better to leave off building the frame until we get the doors, just to make sure things fit. at least I am starting to see the floor in the small bedroom again! Andrea |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 05 Nov 08 - 01:26 AM Had a great boost this evening watching the election results. I didn't wash a dish or de-clutter a thing. I sipped a glass of sparkling wine and toasted the new President. I have done a little de-cluttering in the last 24 hours, though. I've enjoyed the opportunity to help out a little behind the scenes at Mudcat--one thread only, but it is nice to be able to pitch in to help sort out some of the networking that was necessary when Mudcatters learned of the death of an old friend. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Liz the Squeak Date: 05 Nov 08 - 03:51 AM Guess what... still haven't tidied this room, still haven't made that pie. Those apples will be worthless soon. It would help a great deal if a certain Limpit wouldn't keep bringing stuff upstairs that belongs downstairs, or taking stuff downstairs that belongs upstairs... either that or we need to buy another set of big headphones for upstairs. LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maire-aine Date: 05 Nov 08 - 09:29 AM Took 5 bags of newspapers & magazines to the recycling center yesterday. Also took my snowblower to the repair shop for a tune-up. Not only did we de-clutter the White House of Bush (and the threat of McCain), Michigan Dems decluttered the House of Reps of an 8-term Republican Joe Knollenberg, and elected the first Democrat from Oakland County since 1933, Gary Peters. Whoo-hoo! I didn't get to sleep until almost 2 am, so I'm going back to bed now. Maryanne |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 05 Nov 08 - 10:01 AM I feel the need for a little nap also. It was a late night, but for all the right reasons. And what a headline and front page photo on the paper this morning! Cash-strapped as usual, time to list more eBay stuff. There is so much, it's a matter of choosing what. I had a happy note from the woman who bought a collectible platter last week. She's from the town where the pottery is and has a collection. And the fact that it has "crazing," or a crackled finish, is perfectly normal. She was pleased to get it for the price she did, so we're both happy, because I didn't know if I'd be able to sell it at all! SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: mouldy Date: 05 Nov 08 - 05:03 PM Moved a bit more stuff out of the small bedroom. Spent afternoon going through the box of old photos that were bagged up in their appropriate years - starting to put them into albums. Trouble is, there are still lots left, and I have got to steel myself to ditch them...and I will try to. Andrea |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 05 Nov 08 - 05:08 PM Brain-dead from election and other highfalutin cool stuff, I choose to work out at the pool tonight instead of veg out with TV or nap. My rule is: Body tired? Work the brain. And vice versa. There lies balance. ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Bat Goddess Date: 05 Nov 08 - 06:10 PM I think we may have just de-cluttered a bankrupt and useless administration. I don't think any part of it can be recycled. Linn |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Liz the Squeak Date: 05 Nov 08 - 06:28 PM Miserable day... I tidied a pile of craft stuff into a bag, that was it. And it wasn't even a big pile. LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 05 Nov 08 - 10:07 PM I'm going to pull together some particularly attractive collectible items and go to the trouble to measure and find a few gift boxes, and see if listing them as gifts helps on eBay. "Modestly priced items to surprise the collector in your life," or something like that. I've dabbled with free shipping. It has it's drawbacks, but for some things you're not sure if they'll sell, it can make the difference if you really just want it out of the house. ;-) I have several ornamental costumed dolls, authentic type costumes that came from my Mom's estate. I'll keep one or two but they're not a set, that I can tell, so the rest can go one at a time. I did the dishes this morning to get caught up after last night's lounging. We all need to get to work, don't we? SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 06 Nov 08 - 12:31 AM I have been doing nothing but smiling ear to ear and reading news and listening to news and playing with Morgan, as well as writing, so no de-cluttering for me. I think I may be out for the count, maybe through December; start anew in Jan. We'll see...there's still stuff I can do. I haven't spent much time writing, yet, and have two appts. tomorrow, but I do have almost 3000 words, so I guess I've decluttered my brain a bit; only 47,000 to go!**bg** Now that WE have cleaned out the White House, I will be able to give myself over to the writing, for real, and get going! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Liz the Squeak Date: 06 Nov 08 - 04:07 AM So it's agreed, we're taking December off from de-cluttering then? LTS - desperately trying to find excuses... |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: mouldy Date: 06 Nov 08 - 04:40 AM I can use the excuse at the moment that I still have to produce the goods for my one fair this year, in 9 days' time....no excuse after that, really! Got up to 1992 sorted through last night! There are so many left over, though. They won't mean a lot to anyone else but me, so I will have to be firm, but it's very hard throwing those memory aids away. Andrea |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Liz the Squeak Date: 06 Nov 08 - 06:08 AM A success!! Whilst loitering up here with the intent to not have to keep running up and down stairs (not been well the last couple of days.. nuff sed), I've managed to excavate the sewing table again! There's just one small tin of odd but useful crap, a box of fancy craft papers and a cat infested bean-bag left on it now. There may even be enough room to bring the sewing machine back up here - which would be a major coup as it's been living in front of the gin cupboard for the last 8 months. I put Limpit's stuff in her room and put a few books away too, finding a shelf under them that has long been missing, presumed filled with stuff... Now that is nicely tidied and I know where my CDRoms are! The cat is very confused at the wide open spaces. A small battle, but a major victory! LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 06 Nov 08 - 08:11 AM Is this a de-cluttering club? May I join? Truly I need to. The office up here is cluttered with YEARS of piles. Last year I moved a table into the living room and brought just the files I needed to start cleaning up David's business mess (he did great at selling the stone and getting it to the customer, but the billing just never happened...for YEARS! Piles of paper. I just realized that I can actually move myself to the other side of the desk now (where he used to sit). It is closer to the stove, and I wouldn't have to fight my way through the jungle I moved indoors when frost threatened. Then there is his clothes....and the barn (I DID manage to declutter that to the point of being able to run a cart from one end to the other. I found parts of the floor I had not seen in years. Also got the inside of the chicken house sheathed in HDPE sheets. Replace the awful fibreboard with all the holes. Of course, with no holes, there is no place to put eggshells from eggs the chickens eat... My mother says "just spend 10 minutes every night putting stuff away" and I say "There IS NO AWAY!!!" Is there a market for mens' clothes? He had some nice stuff. And if anyone is running through Vermont, I would trade tea and scones for some conversation and decluttering. Yeah, it's lonely. CamiSu |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 06 Nov 08 - 11:03 AM Oh, CamiSu, I wish I were still living back there! {{{{{{hugs}}}}} SRS might be able to advise you on the men's clothing...she's been selling clothing on ebay. Andrea, I shudder when I hear of folks throwing away old photos; you never know what kid, grandkid, or other relative might find them of interest some day. I have a few from my dad's family and maybe five from my mom's. I'd give anything to have a few more of her family. Please don't beat yourself up if you just can't let them go...someone may really cherish them some day. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 06 Nov 08 - 11:22 AM CamiSu, I have seen you greeted on a couple of threads--looks like you're getting back to Mudcat after an absence? And you are dealing with the loss of a spouse? You're not the only one in that category here. It's not a club, and it's not a mutual admiration society (though it has aspects of both). After the folks who are working on losing weight started listing their daily accomplishments kat realized we should list our de-cluttering progress in a similar way. These would run too long to have it continual, so we change to a new thread each month. I am finding I have more and more cleared up "zones" around the house as I work on it. I can't do it full-time, but I use this as a way to attempt to look around through someone else's eyes. Breaking it down to discreet tasks to work on with a beginning and end make this easier. I have a house full of stuff that came from a lot of estates over the years. I've realized that there are a lot of things I can't do because of the clutter, or things I can't find that I want, so I'm de-cluttering in the way I can best afford, by documenting and donating to Goodwill and other agencies for a tax deduction, or by selling on eBay. I think if we quit during November and/or December we'll miss identifying both stuff that can go and spaces where stuff can be placed. Smaller goals or really targeted tasks are probably what we need to work on. Liz, that is great work, clearing out the sewing room! Keep the momentum going by actually moving the machine upstairs. You might want to take the vacuum up first and remove some of the embedded cat hair. The cats will manage to lay down another layer of hair soon. I love to get sewing before the holidays. I'm considering making a fleece jacket for my son this year. It depends on what the patterns look like and if the jackets they sell at LLBean end up costing less than the fabric, pattern, and notions. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maire-aine Date: 06 Nov 08 - 12:14 PM Welcome, CamiSu. I think of this as more of a cluster of 'catters, with a common problem-- too much stuff and too little space. It seems like we have this little thread all to ourselves, and it's nice to get to know folks a little better. Anyway, I took 3 bags of plastic bottles back to the store (we've got a 10-cent deposit on soda bottles). This morning I washed the kitchen and bathroom floors. The handyman just left, after fixing the leaky bathroom faucet. Meeting a friend for lunch, then more work on the kitchen in the afternoon. Maryanne |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 06 Nov 08 - 10:51 PM I left the dishes stacked neatly in soapy water in the sink, mulling the book I've been reading today. I've been trying to finish the last in the Harry Potter series. I've paced myself, reading it when I had time during a weekly appointment when I have to sit in the waiting room. But it's just too exciting now to let it wait week to week. I read for a while today and hope to finish it over the weekend. Then maybe I'll get to something else. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 06 Nov 08 - 11:42 PM SRS--I always was working on a stage set for a theatre camp when the books came out so I would have my youngest read to me as I worked. I did NOT want to wait for the show to be done before I got the book read! Yes, I am back after an about 8 year hiatus. I started taking on AFS (exchange ) students and then became the support person for a 4 state area, had a fire, a wedding (the daughter who got me onto mudcat)and the illness and death of my husband. I have been aware (and supportive of) several many of the folks here that have lost spouses, parents, friends, and children, but I am sometimes a bit insular and it seemed a bit much to say "I am back and please give me hugs". But I was cold all last winter, and I don't think it had to do with the weather (tho I was not the one who was good at keeping the fires going)My house is so cluttered that I think it might take a year of nothing but cleaning, but I also have to build sets, a bar in a local restaurant, keep animals fed & watered and eggs gathered and cleaned, keep a stone sales business running, and do 2 church services a week--Sunday and Wednesday. I know I have forgotten something... I deeply appreciate the company here even if I cannot be on so much. And I WILL check in. I did get the vacuuming done today (and the dog will shed a whole nother dog tomorrow. 3 people have picked up their lamb, so stuff IS getting done. Just not enough of it. End of rant. Kat -- I wish you were here too. I WAS in CO last summer, but only for 10 days. Maybe next time. (This was my first time at the ranch without David. Really hard. My mother in law has been SO helpful. We talk about every 10 days. She's walked the same path, but always had one of her kids around. Wavestar (Jessica) is in CT, Josh is in CO and baby(!) Ben is in high school in western MA. The sheep are not good company, though the dog and cats do try to take up the slack. But if you ever want a place to land out here I don't intend to go anywhere soon. *hug* to you as well! CamiSu |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 07 Nov 08 - 12:34 AM Cami-Sue, thanks for the invite! We'll have to do some catching up by PMs or something; a lot has happened around here, too. When you come out, next time, give me a holler! I think I would miss these threads if we just didn't have them this month and next. I may not get much done to post, but it's fun to read what the rest of you are working on...almost like having a coffer klatch.:-) Wouldn't it be fun if we could meet at each other's houses and help en masse?! I will be sending out some books this weekend, at least. I decluttered my brain of another 2000 words or so, today.:-) kat |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Liz the Squeak Date: 07 Nov 08 - 03:38 AM Yo, CamiSu good to see you back here! Sorry to hear you've had such a troubled time recently, you are not alone! Child wanted to know where we bought the new table from, as she hadn't seen it for a few months. I told her, I just moved her crap and there it was! Today it's going to be one shelf, I've decided... then perhaps I can get the chair in that's needed to sit at the table for sewing. Ho hum... LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Liz the Squeak Date: 07 Nov 08 - 05:13 AM Trouble is, both child and cat have now filled said table with stuff again! I may decide to declutter my house of bipedal and quadrapedal impediments... or at least shut them in the same room together... LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Liz the Squeak Date: 07 Nov 08 - 06:45 AM Found a shelf, a space for the stool and 3 yards of black needlecord fabric to make trousers! Another good day! Mind you, any day you're still breathing is a good day! LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 07 Nov 08 - 09:38 AM These may have been expressed before: Horizontal surface Law: Any horizontal surface will collect junk. Bell's corollary: The horizontal Surface Law is in effect even when you think it isn't. I swear I put more stuff in the recycle bin than come in the house and it STILL collects on any horizontal surface! I wonder about a corollary involving cats... Cami |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 07 Nov 08 - 10:09 AM Wouldn't it be fun if we could meet at each other's houses and help en masse?! Now that would be a kick in the back-side to get at least part of the house de-cluttered in time for company, wouldn't it? Or would we all assume that everyone has seen it before and just move the junk off of a few chairs? ;-D CamiSu, I think there must also be a corollary about remote controls seeking the lowest level on a horizontal surface. It may also apply to cordless phones, cell phones, and the book you're now reading. This is a long day, working at home for a while then getting dressed up to go photograph a Friends of the Library meeting this evening. I'll set up the VCR to tape a couple of programs I'll miss (since I can no longer use the DVR on the satellite--one thing I do miss, but I still don't miss the cost). Last month I programmed it but forgot to put the tape back in the machine. :-/ I realized this week that you need to re-scan those HD channels periodically because more are coming online. I picked up several new ones this week when I brought the last couple of converter boxes in for the last two (of four) TVs in the house. No way I am going to buy new HD TVs but I will probably put up an antenna on the chimney. I have a reflective barrier on the attic ceiling and that messes up the signal on rabbit ears in the house. This weekend will be the last time I mow the lawn for the season, unless we have a warm spell long enough to tease out more tall weeds. Then the mower gets winterized. I also have to winterize the dogs' stall soon--set up their oil heater and get more hay to fill in their houses and around the stall in general. I suppose I could keep this thread going on my own for the next couple of months--I am amazed how cluttered it still is here despite my best efforts. It is better, no doubt about it, but it isn't finished. I recognize that the governing factor on speed of clearing is this balance I've tried to achieve--the time it takes to sell things versus the wasteful throwing out of stuff. Environmentally speaking, I want to see as much of this reused or reapplied as possible, so I stick with it. Time to go de-clutter the sinuses, I think. It feels like a bad allergy day. I think I'll be picking up a few neti pots as holiday gifts. May not be elegant, but they certainly do the trick! SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 07 Nov 08 - 10:42 AM Oh, Maggie, I don't think we'll leave you in here all alone! Even if we just say Hi! and Good Job! I know I will still check in here, regardless. And, if we all could meet at one another's houses, it would require NO clean-up...that would come when we all got there and started helping going through stuff!{g} I know what you mean. Despite working on it, off and on, for months, all i see, right now, is more stuff piled up! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maire-aine Date: 07 Nov 08 - 11:51 AM Well, I'll be here with ya', Maggie. I've got some de-cluttering to make up, since I slacked off last month. Maryanne |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 07 Nov 08 - 01:57 PM Cinder blocks + plywood - clutter = new knee-friendly back steps. Need to buy a coupla blocks and shim the whole (Hardi's job), then I'm done. Measured current dog yard for idfeas on using the chainlink we FC'd in, and found there will be plenty-- slightly bigger dog yard likely but the existing 4x4 posts will stay put and the extra yardage will hoop out from them looking kind neat and curvy. A strip of grass where I can place a coupla wind shelters and the dogs won't tear up the grass, but lounge on it instead. Prolly room for a folding chair for moi, and the new stuff includes a gate. Maybe I'll set out a grooming stand in there too. Heck, I'll just move in. ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 07 Nov 08 - 03:24 PM If you check at Home Depot (and probably Lowes) you'll find that there are attachments and elements of chain link fences for sale that you might want to look into. Metal corner posts, for example, and there are things to stabilize the bottom and patch any breaks, etc. Will the dogs tend to try to dig their way out? If not, no problem, but if they want to, then you need to stabilize the bottom of the fence some. And be sure to use lots of the wire ties along the top rail (if you don't use a top rail then the fence is just a big sheet of wire cloth they can go over the top of very easily). SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 07 Nov 08 - 03:48 PM Yes, it will be a spring project and we plan to do a lot of research during the winter before proceeding. And yes, there are posts and top rails in the set we received (I thought I'd said so earlier), and we'll have some leftover woven wire we will probably bury along the perimeter for the digger-dog's security as well as some plans to secure the bottom with good tension, etc. (She doesn't dig to escape but just for fun and to explore the sound of rabbit/mole dens under that ground.) The metal posts will be sistered onto the 4x4s at the two corners where the fence meets the ell of the house, since they are well sunk; this way we will not need to punch into the brick on this rented house to secure the metal posts there. The whole thing will be topped with a hotwire they already have, and we will use the heavy lawn tractor to stretch the chainlink fabric to a nice tension. I've done horse fencing, so I have a few tricks. :~) ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 07 Nov 08 - 08:20 PM You may have mentioned it, but I didn't remember. My mind is a haze, blurred by the political ads and calls and build-up. And the work stuff. Much of it is finished now. My office computer was de-cluttered to the point of unusability. I've just now got my cookies to stick again. Whew! SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 08 Nov 08 - 01:01 PM It's a beautiful day, and a promise of a new beginning. No cash to spare, but a new beginning. I've set the carcass of a chicken to simmer for stock and I've done the dishes. A quilt barfed on by one of the cats with a full stomach (damn!) is now in soaking to hopefully get the stain out. I'll putter around the yard today and run a few errands. No money to buy anything so it is another weekend of using what is already in place. Not bad, actually, because there are lots of projects here that are all set up but haven't happened yet. Oh--I opened my electric bill--it is as low as it has been in several years. My various efforts to deal with the summer heat have taken effect. Soon I need to get some good drapes to deal with the cool temperatures that come in on the north side of the house, to keep the winter bills down. I'll have to declutter around those windows to set it up for the drapes. I noticed on the Secret Santa thread that a few people admit to prolonged holiday seasonal activity in some of their living spaces. Maybe we'll have a few new participants over here soon. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 08 Nov 08 - 04:14 PM I was just thinking about getting some heavy winter drapws up, too, Maggie. It's good to see the differences in your bill when you take measures to reduce, eh? We took about twenty boxes of stuff to the dumpster, today. They were some of my sisters' stuff that wasn't under tarps, stuff I thought we'd give away, but i was never able to get that together due to heat and ants in the drive-way. Any we went through the ones which had disintegrated because they weren't under the tarps, I lifted a few into the truck, and moved some. Also loaded some more in the trash when we came back from dumpling the first load. It feels good and our drive-way looks better, still a few to go, but it was also hard seeing books, records and other personal things which had been ruined by weather. I was able to save two photo albums which I didn't know were out there this summer when we dumped it all out there. I don't like having to make keep or go decisions for someone else, esp. when they are not here. I have their permission to throw it all out, but I cannot do that, so there it sits in the driveway, most now under the tarps. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 08 Nov 08 - 07:31 PM The front yard is mowed, but not trimmed yet, though I did pull up a long chunk of edging that wasn't serving much purpose in the back yard any more and have started setting it along a new iris bed out front. It got dark so I didn't finish. Now for an evening indoors. So many things to do. Clean off a few surfaces that are stacked with too much paper, prepare eBay stuff, vacuum, sweep, in general start clearing out for the holiday in a few weeks. Laundry. The usual. Too bad about that stuff out in the driveway. I've gradually managed to get most things under cover that need cover. I may need to put a few pots on wheels so I can move them in in cold weather. I've seen inexpensive rolling stands at Big Lots. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: MAG Date: 08 Nov 08 - 08:56 PM I got all my terra cotta pots moved into the shed. Buried unusable garlic around the roses (it's a pest repellent). Got a load of this week's sweats into the wash. Did my SAD light AND made it to the Y to work out this morning, before work, even. Still haven't decluttered to the point of finding my missing cell phone. It burns me to think how much I'm paying each day I am without it. Now I'm going to go veg out with the second half of Prairie Home Companion. His guests lately have been OK. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 09 Nov 08 - 12:30 AM MAG, is your cellphone on? When we lose one of ours, usually they are on, so we call them until we locate the ringing. Of course, it only works if they are on. Micca lost his over here, but it was off, so it was never found.:-) I decluttered my mind more than I thought I would, today. I added two more chapters to my novel, using 2911 words, so I am getting near my first 10,000, at 7550 tonight! I will have to average about 2000 per day if I am to reach my goal by the 30th. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 09 Nov 08 - 01:14 AM Kat, if you need a few extra words you can borrow some from the MOAB. We have lots to spare, and the depth and breadth and range will allow you to do just about anything you want with them. :) The real trick would be for the cell phone company to have a way to turn on the phone remotely and THEN let you call and see if you can hear it. I had mine in the case in my pocket when I was out in the yard a couple of years ago, and it dropped out. When I realized where it was I was sure it was probably demolished or inside a dog, but I went out back and Cinnamon, the pit bull, was delicately carrying it around and dropped it when she saw me coming. So sweet--I think they sometimes just like to carry our stuff around because it smells like us. She has destroyed other things left in her area (heaven help any laundry that falls on the ground--she has demolished a sock and a wash cloth so far), so I was just lucky this wasn't one of them. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: mouldy Date: 09 Nov 08 - 07:40 AM Take one hunky Moroccan nephew-in-law, delicate (but deceptively strong) niece; add a chain saw, some loppers and some baskets, and I now have a flat garden when an apple tree stood, baskets of small apples (some eminently usable), a swept yard, and all spare wood logged and stacked - All in a day! Then Cat and I still had time to slope off to Goole to have a drool at a particular jewellery shop that she was interested in visiting. In return I just had to keep them fed and watered. Andrea |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 09 Nov 08 - 01:03 PM My daughter and her boyfriend spent the night here after attending a wedding. I sent them off with a care package of a few non-perishable groceries. Seems their house-mate in charge of paying the electric bill the last couple of months has waited too long and it has been turned off twice. They need a new arrangement or it can affect their credit. Part of the learning process in college--how to pay the bills. :-/ I have to trim my yard out front today then mow the back and winterize the mower. And get more stuff listed on eBay. I also have bills to pay. . . Oy. It's going to be a christmas like no other, I can see that now. I hope those retailers don't put themselves too much into debt ordering stuff no one is going to come in and buy. Just tread water for a while. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 09 Nov 08 - 02:36 PM Maybe Barack will get the lame duck congress to do one thing nice before they are ousted and pass an economic stimulus package before the holidays. Think of all the spending that would encourage.:-) We have had a very good morning here. We moved the scanner down to desk level; it had been on a shelf above the printer and not easily accessible from my chair. That required a really good clean up of my desk and some rearranging with Rog having to pull cords out from under the desk and plug them back in, elsewhere. He also moved the external HD so I can save stuff to it from my old computer on the jewellery table. My desk lamp is now on the righthand side which suits me better for reading papers on my pull out shelf above the first drawer - it pulls out like a cutting board, about the same width and size. I did dishes, a week's worth, while Rog did the litter boxes and trash. He also swept the house and I mopped, again! And, it felt good! Since the scanner is so easy to reach now, I have put two press passes on ebay from when Palin was here and from McCain's last rally in CO on Election Day. One of my cats has not eaten since yesterday and I think will have to go to the vet tomorrow, so I'm motivated to get more listings up as I don't really have extra cash for him to go. I think it's just a cold which will need antibiotic, but we'll see. The top of my desk looks so much better now. I will be able to concentrate on writing more easily; thanks for the word loan offer, Maggie!**bg** I am going to do a few more ebay listings and then get to it. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 09 Nov 08 - 04:39 PM It doesn't seem like much, but I now have three things listed on ebay. More to follow. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 09 Nov 08 - 08:06 PM I have to do that tonight. I brought more rocks up from the creek and I think tomorrow I'll finish my little garden and trail area with one last load of gravel. I trimmed around the cactus and trees on one side of the yard, and hopefully they will STAY looking trimmed since the grass is about dormant now. This week we've had beautiful autumn weather. Lots of leaves on the ground, but we haven't had that storm or wind that makes everything seem to go "plop" at once -- bam, the yards are heaped with them. There are enough leaves down in the back yard that make it really difficult to find the dog droppings in the mix. I'll mow one more time and that will mulch the leaves and the poop. ;-) I'm feeling a bit down--an argument about money with the ex. I hate to think of going to court--the only one who gets money then is the attorney. I've made some comfort food for dinner, chicken noodle soup (with lots of veggies) and yeast rolls (half of the batch is going to be made into cinnamon rolls for breakfast). A woman's gotta do what a woman's gotta do. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 09 Nov 08 - 09:20 PM Take care of yourself, Maggie. I rememebr those days, long ago and wouldn't wish them on anyone. My ex-son-law has finally decided my daughter is not the enemy and has been really good about giving her extra even; they're actually friends, again. Good for them and the boys. Here's to your ex "seeing the Light" and helping you out. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 09 Nov 08 - 09:20 PM Tried to declutter the manure from last winter out of the corral, and instead the tractor crapped out and all I was left with a mess in the corral. Rats. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 09 Nov 08 - 10:59 PM Rats in the corral? I have mice in the compost. The child support arrives regularly (withheld), it's those extra expenses we're supposed to share that he refuses to pay back. I looked at your sales, Kat. How did you end up with those passes? SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 10 Nov 08 - 12:02 AM Oh, yes, the extra expenses that they non-custodial parent just doesn't understand. Good luck with that. My Rog got the passes; had to be up at 430a for the one from Nov. 4th! Since he sets up the remote broadcast and all of the engineering, he's point man and boss for that kind of thing. He knows to bring such things home to me.:-) He can't find his Obama one, but I won't sell it when he finds it anyway. Cami-Sue, maybe it just needs to sit for another winter?:-) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 10 Nov 08 - 02:32 PM Hmmm...wonder if Rog can get any more press passes from his colleagues/ One of the ones I put up has two people bidding for it and both passes have received bids! I won't have Morgan this afternoon, due to himhaving a fever, so I am going to write like mad and try to reach 15,000 words by tonight! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: MAG Date: 10 Nov 08 - 03:36 PM I have tried calling my cell phone; nada. I understand that most people who find a cell phone call any of the numbers on the speed dial and let them to let the owner know where it is. That hasn't happened; I think I just dropped it in some fashion somewhere in my crap. Over 2 weeks ago. Got one kitty to the vey for her operation this morning; I don't think she is preggers after all; no action in the teats. It was more stressful than I thought -- her frantic in the box, telling the vet people how wild she is -- I treated myself to breakfast out. yeah, the leaves are falling like mad, and that new bag for my shredder has not yet arrived. I'm putting as many as possible in my (off the ground) composter but it's pretty full. Basketing up a lot to dry in the (cleaned out) carport so they will shred better when and if I get my shredder operational. Have a sore throat and am undecided whether it is PC to go to the Y and use the hot tub, etc. Maybe the leaves is good enough exercise for today. It's the kind of day where I feel virtuous just keeping the washing machine going, etc. Happy veterans day everyone, it's an extra day off for me. (USA) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 10 Nov 08 - 05:06 PM I made one last trip down to the creek bed before heading out for an appointment. The rocky area beside the new iris bed is a beginning. While not building a trail system per se, I'll probably extend the gravel a little in a couple of directions because we tend to walk around to the front or past the bird bath (the dogs have radio collars that keep them in the yard, but when we take walks I remove the collars and we always walk here across the grass and out). My creek visit was quick because a rain storm was breathing down my neck, a few splats of rain hit, though it held off for a while. The counties west of here are under a tornado watch, so it is no longer safe to go in the creek (flash floods). But I got enough rocks to fill in over the top of the sand that I laid down in the area where I removed the turf and a little soil. Interesting about those badges, Kat, and actually, quite a nice souvenir, whatever your party. In this kind of weather I feel like cooking (pot roast tonight), and I'll do more to de-clutter the kitchen. It is already looking a lot better from efforts during the year, but I'm determined to completely clear off the big center counter except for a couple of essentials (the toaster and hot water kettle). SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 10 Nov 08 - 05:21 PM That looks beautiful, Maggie! I did a little bit of decluttering in the kitchen this weekend. One bowl I really like but never use had been sitting by the sink, with one of my mom's old bottles sitting it in, for months. I couldn't get the bottle clean and wasn't sure where to put the bowl, so there they sat. No more, I banished them to the giveaway box! The badges are a neat and fairly unique souvenir, yes. I probably should hang on to them as they might be worth more later, but I had to take a cat, Trsytan, to the vet this morning. It cost me $75 to find out he has too many of the bad bacteria in his gut and needs antibiotics, so, I hope the badges creep up there! I am keeping the Obama one once Rog finds it! There was a challenge on nanowrimo to reach 15,000 words by tonight. So far, I am at 12,327. Taking a break for a nap. MAG, I think what you've done today counts for a lot. Good news on the kitty not being preggers! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 10 Nov 08 - 09:40 PM Can't leave it for next year. I am already this year behind in spreading the compost. But I have made a right royal mess out there and need to haul the hay rack in so I can feed the hay all winter. All this stuff David used to do. I just wish I knew HOW! CamiSu BTW Kat, Su is my legal middle name. In Turkish (which is the language I was placed in as an exchange student) Sue came out Sooo-eey, so I changed it over 35 years ago... |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 10 Nov 08 - 10:15 PM Did I say something about not having a storm yet that knocked down, by wind or rain, all of those leaves? It arrived this evening. Plop! Nice pot of stew is sitting on the back burner, the kind that you dish up and go attempt to eat 15 minutes later. There is something about stew, whether beef or chicken, that holds heat. I have always wondered if the NASA program has done any studies on the density of some foods as far as storing energy (heat). . . CamiSu, is there a neighbor who can act as mentor on some of these chores that are new to you? It's always easier learning from someone who knows what they're doing than the trial and error method. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 10 Nov 08 - 10:39 PM Cami-Su, sorry 'bout that. I didn't realise I'd added the "e." Thanks and interesting story about how it came to be.:-) Is there anyone you can afford to hire to help you out and show you the ropes if a neighbour or someone else can't help? I know of a Mudcatter who would jump at the chance but real life is in the way at the moment. Any agricultural colleges or programs nearby? Maybe students from one of them? Good luck. kat |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maeve Date: 11 Nov 08 - 06:37 AM CamiSu- Call the local Cooperative Extension and ask for help from Master Gardeners, 4-Hers, Farming mentors, etc. Call the local Boy Scout /Girl Scout groups. Talk to local churches. Talk to folks at the nearest organic food store. Post a notice at Feed stores, Agway and Tru Value stores, and farming equipment dealerships. Do an online search for farming forums. Send me a PM if you need more specific help. Keep your chin up. If you can find someone with the right equipment and know-how, the manure can be spread a bit late, and the world won't stop spinning if the manure has to wait until you have the means to deal with it. There will be many things that don't get done this fall. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 11 Nov 08 - 10:37 AM Hardi declutted DR --his drop zone; mine's the LR-- and I swapped a table around necessitated by the new entertainment center. I declutted the last puder's really nice speakers onto the HD TV-- the TV came with CRAP sound so this is a great improvement. (I'd gotten them free from our puder techie and they're the Good Stuff). We enjoyed the French movie last night-- about a sort of cellist-- and LOVED the sound as the music ran thru the film thruout. Today I hope to install a huge box I brought home yesterday, direct from the van to the dog porch. Their porch cuts a lot of the wind from their go-outside door and my kitchen, and gives them a good amount of protection when they're left out all day as needed. Adding the box will further cut the drafts caused by the sag of the porch and make an annual winterizing for the dogs a simple thing. It should also make their nights indoors much snugger. I should have postage money this weekend to start mailing out the tapes I'm giving away. It will be the first grocery check I can recall since vacay that has not had heavy incursions from other expenses. ~Susan |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 11 Nov 08 - 11:37 AM My neighbor's tractor is headed to the shop today. I am not so worried about actually spreading the manure--but the middle of the corral is a true mess and I need to wait now until it dries out a bit and either of us have a tractor. I may give the dairy farm up the road a call. I have been way too self-sufficient lately. CamiSu |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Bat Goddess Date: 11 Nov 08 - 12:11 PM Last week on my day off (Tuesdays) I decluttered a couple boxes of books to the town library sale last weekend -- when I wouldn't be able to attend on Saturday because I have to work. This morning (my day off) I swung by to buy some of the sale leftovers (I've "won" if I buy fewer than I donate), but the library was closed because of Veteran's Day. (I haven't gotten a holiday for Veteran's/Armistice Day since I was in school.) Ah well, just postponed. I'll stop at the library after work tomorrow (since they're open until 9 pm) and pick up some mysteries and perhaps a couple Christmas presents. Now off to post some offers on Freecycle. Linn |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 11 Nov 08 - 03:09 PM Cleared some paper off of a work space. Not a lot, but it is a busy day. It was a nice departure from what I have been doing, though, to shread a few sheets of paper and stuff some more in the recycle bag. I wish I could clear my virtual work desk so easily. One item keeps coming back like a bad penny. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maeve Date: 11 Nov 08 - 04:04 PM This morning: I put out the flag to honor the sacrifices of our Veterans and their families. Then I sorted potted plants, loaded a cart for the compost heaps, sorted pots, moved 6 trays of clethra shrubs to the greenhouse, watered and mulched alpine strawberry seedlings,dug down earth beside the new chicken house/garden shed to redirect water flow, moved the earth to low places and the rose nursery bed, divided and potted 'David' phlox and planted some wildflowers. The chickens enjoyed the chilly but beautiful day ranging far and wide. It was cold enough they returned to their house by lunchtime. I moved the clothes drying racks out into the sunny, breezy area in back of the house, filled them with newly washed laundry, washed pots and dishes. We hauled some wood. This afternoon I washed up the dishes again, cut another batch of apples for the dehydrator, brought all the racks of laundry inside due to a threatening sky and strong breeze kicking up. It's time for a cup of tea and a nap. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: mouldy Date: 12 Nov 08 - 03:33 AM New mattress arriving today, sometime. Friend arriving any time now to help me shift old one onto Ruth's bed. Peter due any time now too, to begin cupboard. Salt dough angels to be painted today, more stuff finished tomorrow and Friday - in between riding, taking the dog to kennels, and massage (the day after, in case I hurt). Craft fair Saturday, then off to a convent for 3 days (I was coerced). I'll be on a retreat. So Friday or Saturday night there will be a blur of activity around my dining table as I shovel the bits of maribou, silver/gold string, merino wool, and escaped glittery stuff off the floor! And that's from the (10 so far) applehead tree decs I have made. Motto on stall to be, "Grace your tree with a granny"! Andrea |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maeve Date: 12 Nov 08 - 06:41 AM De-cluttered last night's ruined flat tire. Rats. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maire-aine Date: 12 Nov 08 - 09:41 AM I moved the furniture around in the dining room and cleaned the floor. I prefer to have the buffet against the west wall of the room, but in the summer I have to move it away so I can open the windows. Maryanne |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 12 Nov 08 - 10:18 AM Paid bills. That seriously de-clutters the bank account, little wispy moth-like things flutter out when I finish. I read Max's post last night, and while I see he is approaching a business model for Mudcat that doesn't call on members for donations, I've been saving a few items to put in the auction, figuring this time of year they can do triple-duty as gifts and donations and de-cluttered items. I put up a windbreaker jacket last night (a good size for many of our Mudcat members) and I have a cookbook to list this evening if I get a chance. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 12 Nov 08 - 06:10 PM Moving work projects off of my desk and am investigating the titles of folks on campus with job descriptions similar to mine. It's time to get an accurate description and get the pay right. Won't happen soon, next year? But at least it is in the works. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: MAG Date: 13 Nov 08 - 09:24 AM In setting up the spare room (storage room) for a newly spayed cat, I moved stuff around and found unbelieveable amounts of cat crap hidden behind things. We're talking serious rug shampoo here, not just a sweep and a promise. I don't know when I'm going to get to this since this is a Portland weekend. Another layer of the ol' onion. Kitty seems to be doing fine. She is using her (first) catbox. Inside cat is royally pissed. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 13 Nov 08 - 10:16 AM My side-by-side freezer door was stuck last night. I pulled hard to open it and found a frozen puddle in the bottom of the freezer, and upon examination, found the source of the leak. I'll empty the freezer, move the fridge from the wall to take a good look, and probably turn off the water if I can't mend the problem myself. Good thing the big freezer is here to move stuff into. And while I'm at it, it is time to de-clutter the freezers. The stuff that is now freeze dried to a point of inedible cardboard will to thaw in the compost. The research on possible eBay items can be rather depressing. How many things do we hold onto, thinking they're rare, unique, and valuable, and they sell for $9.99 on eBay? What that market will bear (or is even interested in) can be an eye-opener! SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 13 Nov 08 - 04:50 PM A handy tip: when one wants to generate a little activity at eBay, dredging up and relisting the unsold items is a quick way to at least make it look like you've been busy. :) Now I have to work on the new listings to go with the recycled ones. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maire-aine Date: 13 Nov 08 - 08:45 PM I got the best surprise today. I came home from work (working 2 days a week thru December), and found that all my leaves had been cleaned up and put out to the curb. (The city will vacuum them up from there.) Even out in the back was done. It was the guys from the lawn service, and I hadn't been expecting them, but I'll take it. I'll have to pay for it, but it'll be worth it. I had been watching the weather forecast to see when i'd have a dry enough day to rake them myself. What a great thing to have somebody give me 2 hours that I hadn't counted on. Maryanne |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 13 Nov 08 - 10:09 PM I called my neighbor that has a BIG dairy farm up the road and he said they could send a guy with a backhoe to clean up my corral. And I have talked to the gal who owns the ram I will be borrowing (and perhaps buying)so things are looking up on the farm. I do need to declutter some wood into the stove. Got the penultimate batch of dog food in the jars and into the cellar. Just one more batch to cook up and can. YAY! Also need to declutter some lamb out of the freezer yet. And the lamb out of my neighbor's freezer! Cami |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 13 Nov 08 - 10:22 PM There ya go, Cami-Su! Sometimes it takes so much for us to let go of the "self-sufficiency" and reach out for some assistance. Good for you! I haven't done anything for two days, trying to get my foot to stop hurting, until today when I decluttered another 1600+words outta my brain.:-) Tomorrow it's take my five year old grandson out for birthday lunch and his party on Sat. so I don't know if I'll get much done this weekend unless I can light a fire under my Rog.:-) Maggie, good luck with ebay. I just checked, only 14 hours to go and the bidding has gone up a bit on the Election Day press pass. It is at $10.50, now. The other one is stuck at $1.99...oh well, maybe it will get a flurry of activity near the end. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 13 Nov 08 - 11:44 PM CamiSu, what nice neighbors! And if you hang around when the backhoe arrives, you can watch what the operator does and have a clue for next year. Take a few notes, draw a diagram. (As to the other, I'm guessing you don't have to watch the ram unless you want to--he probably knows what he's doing, also. . .) Kat, why does your foot hurt? I missed something. Did you kick your word processor for not cranking out enough copy? ;-D A friend called this evening and asked if I'd vote in their hometown newspaper letter to the editor competition. Each month they pick three non-political letters for readers to vote for. The winner gets an interview article about the topic, and the letter reprinted. She has never asked for a favor before, and this was easy to fulfill. I sent a note to a few friends to ask for their vote. He's ahead by 10 right now. He is hoping to call attention to a historic church in town that may be torn down by a growing hospital because no one is paying attention. His name is Richard H, see the third letter, and you'll find it here: link. You can only vote once. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 14 Nov 08 - 12:21 AM I just voted for him, Maggie. I stepped off a small curb whilst loading the cat into the mini-van on Monday and pulled my Achilles tendon. I didn't think anything of it at the time as it wasn't that painful; just a slight pull, or so I thought. It gets discouraging. I get one part going pretty good and another throws a fit, esp. my feet. You'd think getting the pounds off would improve that! Sorry for the rant; it hurts.:-/ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: mouldy Date: 14 Nov 08 - 06:52 AM It's funny how a small rick of the area around the Achilles tendon seems to really hurt - often the day after. Treat it gently, Kat, in case it decides it hasn't quite finished with you after you think it's gone away! Andrea |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: mouldy Date: 14 Nov 08 - 06:55 AM Also got the new cupboard at last. No shelves in it, however, so I have got to put boxed stuff in it...smallish boxes! Andrea |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Liz the Squeak Date: 14 Nov 08 - 07:17 AM 3 day headache here - stress related, not due to me falling out of the loft on Sunday... so nothing much done, but I have been using my "new" table to cover a box with pretty papers so that's one Christmas gift wrap sorted! LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 14 Nov 08 - 08:19 AM Kat, I hurt my Achilles tendon while running for a bus--about eight weeks ago. It still hurts and I've reinjured it a couple of times (running again). Last week's visit to meet a new doctor included a question about that. I reinjure it, she said, because it isn't flexible enough yet. I've been trying to keep my foot flat, not wearing heels, but she said I need to stretch it 5 or 6 times a day. You know--point your heel and pull your toes up, so the tendon is stretched longer. I'm also on motrin 24/7 for a week or two because part of the pain is tendinitis. I stretch with both feet--might as well keep the other one healthy also. Hope this helps! Friday is here and with it a busy weekend of the preparation for holiday events. Listings on eBay and cleaning house for visitors. There's not point in trying to mop and sweep while the turkey is baking and the guests haven't arrived yet. The eBay portion of this will still be in the de-cluttering mode. I'll clear off my work table, shake out the sheet that serves as my blue background, and get to work. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maeve Date: 14 Nov 08 - 08:38 AM Cleared up plants, compost materials, made a new cmpost pile, Started another batch of apples drying, cleared out some paperwork... and got rid of this pesky 100! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 14 Nov 08 - 11:06 AM Thanks, Andrea and Maggie. I have RICED it (Rest,Ice,Compress,Elevate.) The ace bandage hurt so much I took it off the day before yesterday and by last night it was red and really swollen, again, and very painful. I can't take motrin as I am allergic. I had been to the doc last week who told me my achilles were stretched nicely as I have been flexing them, but the other pain I was having was from not flexing the muscles/tendons that run up the front, so I've been flexing that. I think this was just a stupid misstep AND the need to keep flexing. Actually the flexing does make it hurt less, so thanks for the reminder, Maggie. Sorry for going on so much. ON the decluttering front, the Election Day press pass has two hours left, two bidders and is now up to almost $15!:-) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 14 Nov 08 - 11:49 AM Nice on that pass! If you can't take motrin, is there another anti-inflammatory you can use? Or a topical cream, perhaps? I asked her about a brace or a wrap and she said absolutely not to do that, so our injuries may be a bit different. It is a bit swollen, though. I picked four good-sized eggplants and left a couple of others on the plant. There are also a few smaller ones that I'll leave until the last minutes. I got some peppers and there are a couple of big carrots still in the garden, along with green onions. I'm putting out fires at work this morning. SSSSSSsssss! SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 14 Nov 08 - 04:42 PM The tractor is out from in front of the chicken house and on its way to the shop. The truck is in front of the garage. (a minor improvement over in front of the barn) I need to empty the van of a quarter ton of chicken feed, and some salt. I REALLY need to declutter the barn of hides. A set comes home tomorrow and more set leaves. 'Tis the theatre season! CamiSu |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 14 Nov 08 - 04:55 PM Seems we are all busy, at least! Maggie, thanks. I was told to keep mine wrapped to keep the swelling down. Which, I don't mind too much as it does hurt more when it swells. It's a bit better today. I've kept it elevated more, plus my Rog came home and drove me to pick up Morgan for a fifth b-day lunch with the two of us. It really helps to NOT drive.:-) After postage and insurance costs I sold both passes for about $23. Those are packaged up and ready to be dropped in the mail, tomorrow, so there's a tiny bit of decluttering done.:-) It's something at least. That china piece you have up is beautiful, Maggie! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 14 Nov 08 - 06:02 PM I have several more large pieces and a lot of saucers, and that pattern is for sale at the businesses that sell replacement china. That same piece, with a lesser handle, is $50. This piece is probably a few dollars more. I only listed one piece because I've tried to detect some interest. With postage paid, it comes out a lot less expensive (and it is in better condition) than the one offered at the commercial place. If I list it low I know the folks from that place will buy it--then sell it at a premium price. It's a crap shoot. :-/ I should probably list these on one or two of the other auction sites, spread the wealth. I saved the URLs, I'll report back. The wind is blowing big this afternoon and the laundry is billowing on the line. It may dry faster this way, but it is a more perilous operation! SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 14 Nov 08 - 06:47 PM With all of the stuff you have, have you considered opening a shop at Ruby Lane? I will do some decluttering, tomorrow. We have a stack of about ten books to deliver to our son at Morgan's b-day party at our daughter's house.:-) I will also ask Rog to load the two boxes of books into the car so I can deliver them on Monday to the library. They've only been stacked by the front door for about three months now! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 14 Nov 08 - 06:50 PM Their twenty dollar advertising fee, per month, covers a lot! Click. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 14 Nov 08 - 08:07 PM I've landed on some of their shops in the past when Googling some items. I think there were a number of chandeliers out of there a couple of summers ago. If you pay a monthly fee you have to stay on top of your listings to make it pay for itself--that can be good if it is enough incentive to do the work. Otherwise, it's an expensive way of listing a few items. Can things sell there that aren't in a "shop?" SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 14 Nov 08 - 09:51 PM No, not that I know of, at least not last time I checked.Kovel's had a site listed in a recent email. I'll see if I can find it and post it sometime this weekend. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 14 Nov 08 - 11:35 PM LR backslid. But one huge box and one of 3 unused printers, gone. ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: MAG Date: 15 Nov 08 - 09:50 AM It sounds like everyone is working hard and at least holding their own, at a difficult time of year and under difficult situations. I'm still waiting for the new shredder bag. Got some papers sorted. Miles to go. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 15 Nov 08 - 09:52 AM I've been moving out stuff from the freezer. Trying to identify some items that have clearly been in there too long. There are lots of bowl-shaped ingots of chicken drippings from the convection oven that make a quick batch of chicken stock. I wonder if stock can get freezer burn? I'll thaw a batch and make some soup and see. It's good soup weather today. More importantly, I'll be googling terms to do with water leaking into the freezer somewhere south of the ice-maker and filling up the compartment bottom. It is hopefully a simple repair of a new piece of plastic tubing. After I remove the advancing glacier in the bottom and down the back under the metal covering of the working parts. On the "bright side," I replaced a burned out appliance bulb in the bottom of the fridge section (I bought several packs of appliance bulbs that were being cleared out cheap last year. This fridge uses at least three, so I figure I'll use them eventually). I've also made a great discovery on eBay of something I've been looking for for years. Reasonably priced. Will report back if I get one. :) SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 15 Nov 08 - 11:48 AM That sounds intriguing, Maggie. Rog gathered up the yard signs from the election this morning and stored them for me. He also took care of the rotting jacko'lanterns on the front porch and did the trash inside while I did a week's worth of dishes! Still to come, take down the ghost hanging from the eave out front, carry two boxes of books out to the car, plus a bag of books for our son. The place looks a little less cluttered and will be better by end of the weekend, I hope.:-) I have a dress and coat I need to get listed on ebay this weekend, too. I hope to spend a lot of time writing, though. I am 11,000 words behind where I ought to be by mid-month! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 15 Nov 08 - 11:51 AM FreeCycled out Hardi's dear, classic starter racing bike last night, delivering it to a VERY grateful fella an hour away who will truly give it the right home: It turned out he'd recently lost 100 pounds, so the lighter bike will mean a lot to him in a specific, special way. The lost kitten crying in the parking lot, I declined. Lots of other prospects there-- busy restaurant! :~) ~Susan |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: mouldy Date: 15 Nov 08 - 01:25 PM Done the craft fair. Now I can de-clutter the stuff back into the small bedroom for the time being. I still managed to get a full-looking stall with 2 big and 6 small boxes' worth. I used to go out with 14 small ones and 3 big ones! Took about £70, which has covered costs and left a bit. Not planning any more at the moment. Andrea |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: LilyFestre Date: 15 Nov 08 - 04:41 PM The weekly car cleaning is finished, everything is put away and I can almost see the top of my table! It will be cleared away soon enough as DH and I have paperwork to do and need the space. It's mostly just chores but still, they are finished and it's all good. I also sorted out some Christmas gifts today....I can't believe it, but it's that time of year. We're keeping it very small this year so I'll consider a good chunk of it finished. I know it's early but when you find the right present for someone, I don't think it's ever too early! :) Michelle |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 15 Nov 08 - 05:20 PM Thought some of you might be interested in this: WOW! Women On Writing Fall 2008 Essay Writing Contest, sponsored by skirt! books. In less than 750 words, tell us how recreating your personal space has changed your life, or how by making changes in your life, it has moved you to express yourself and recreate your home. These can be personal stories of love, loss, moving to a new area, or anything that has affected or inspired you to recreate your life and your home. Awards: $200, $150, $100 plus gift certificates and skirt! goodie bags. Entry fee: $10, or $20 with critique. Deadline: November 30, 2008. Info: http://wow-womenonwriting.com/contest.php. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Generally I don't even look at contests, esp. ones which charge a fee, but this one seemed interesting in light of all our work, etc.:-) While Rog was getting some things we needed at the store, before Morgan's party, I got out of the car and cleaned out the backseat and front of all of the trash - one bag full! That felt good. And, we did remember to deliver the sack of books to our son, so that's helped. We both seem to have tuckered out this afternoon. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 15 Nov 08 - 07:57 PM I've had two lie-downs and was able to finally get back to the novel, decluttering my mind of another 1300+ words, finally passing the 15,000 mark! Arggghhh, only slightly less that 35,000 to go!:-) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 16 Nov 08 - 12:19 AM A friend of mine down here has been agonizing over writing or not writing in the same writing challenge. I read about it on her "what are you doing now" entry on her Facebook page. ;) Lots of Facebook means less writing. I cleared off the dining room table, but that was to set out a nice dinner. A friend came over and I had delayed getting the dinner started (needed to bake quite a while) that I set up a movie to watch while it baked. Being There is so good--and I absolutely love showing it to someone who has never seen it before. I've cleared a path to the freezer and sorted stuff that was in the freezer, but tomorrow will be the day to remove the ice and see where it is coming from. Brrrr! SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maire-aine Date: 16 Nov 08 - 12:29 AM Changed my guitar strings today. Also replaced a bunch of lightbulbs with energy efficient ones. I didn't know the bathroom fixture could be so bright. A friend had a house concert, and I sang 3 songs during the open mic portion. Boxed up some of the teacups on the buffet, so that I can put holiday decorations on it. Cleaned out a lot of stuff from the freezer, so I can do some holiday baking early. Maryanne |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 16 Nov 08 - 10:37 AM I've emptied the freezer I have to find the water leak in. Tons of little bags of leftover things (nuts, cut up veggies, things that there weren't quite enough for any particular recipe). I've pulled out a couple of the bags of nuts and a container of mashed bananas and will make banana bread later. And a couple of beef bones for the dogs this afternoon after a walk. My freezer will look wonderful once it is cleaned. I hope I can find and fix the leak so I can use the ice maker and water filter again. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 16 Nov 08 - 11:45 AM Good luck, Maggie! (I love that movie, too!) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 16 Nov 08 - 11:49 AM It think it was a simple matter of the drain plug being frozen over. Fingers crossed! Onward, eBay! SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 16 Nov 08 - 01:36 PM SRS, sounds like Soup Time with all the little baggies. ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 16 Nov 08 - 03:28 PM Yea, Maggie, hope that's all it is! I unclogged my brain this morning and managed to declutter 4700 words!! I am now over the 20,000 mark. 30,000 by Thursday sounds easier now! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 17 Nov 08 - 12:56 AM The freezer looks great, I have good leftovers for a few days, and I finished a kind of fussy listing on eBay. I had to take a lot of measurements to list that suit my Mom had made in China, since it didn't have a label or a size on it. And--fanfare please--after about 10 years of looking I found another Norwegian Nisse troll. I have one that Mom sent me probably 20 or 25 years ago. Now before you get concerned, you're correct. Trolls are nasty pieces of work. But this isn't just ANY troll. A Nisse Troll is about the ONLY decent troll there is around, but they're very shy. I'm sure they date back to pre-christian times in Norway, and their job is to find a place to hide but where they can still see the tree to guard it. Every year we enjoy finding some little nook or cranny, sometimes in a bookcase in the next room or down the hall, so she can see the tree or the gift area. And since I have two children, you can see the dilemma. I've been looking off and on, and yesterday when researching some Scandinavian things I'll be listing I just thought 'what the heck' and typed in Nisse Troll. Someone in Dallas had four from the same Norwegian company as mine, male and female, the same style. We like the look of the female better, since her hat hides her doll hair follicles and she looks more lifelike. For a troll. All four had at least one bid, one doll had three. I bid on one and got it for 50 cents over the listing price, so I guess the other bidder thought there wasn't much interest. So--it was a good weekend. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 17 Nov 08 - 12:42 PM It seems with the incredible drop-off of political threads that the Mudcat BS section is considerably de-cluttered! I've been trimming large plants in the garden and am set to conduct a couple of experiments. I'm curious to see what comes back from the roots in the spring, so I'm trimming some but I won't pull them out completely. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 17 Nov 08 - 12:49 PM I'm still trying to fathom the 'weekly car cleaning'. I am lucky to get it done once a year! And if my chickens don't stay off the road I may be seriously decluttered of chickens! CamiSu |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 17 Nov 08 - 03:40 PM "Car cleaning" and "weekly" don't go together in my vocabulary. My goal in the pickup is to have a couple of bottles of fresh water, the sticky tape garment roller (to remove cat hair) and a dish towel (to catch crumbs) for my son in the morning to get him to school every day. And a bunch of cloth grocery bags for my shopping runs. This time of year it also has an extra blanket for emergencies and when it gets really cold around here I'll add a down sleeping bag for "just in case" that I hope I never have to use. I washed and vacuumed the truck last month--that should last for the next six months at least. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maire-aine Date: 17 Nov 08 - 06:10 PM We had snow this weekend, about an inch on the grass and trees. Mostly melted on the streets & sidewalks, but the roads got real slick on Sunday night. As for freezer de-cluttering, I took all the little bags of leftover rye bread (slices too small for a decent sandwich) and cut them into cubes; think I got about 5 or 6 cups. They're back in the freezer now and all ready to make stuffing. I also made rice pilaf to take to the potluck on Sunday, which got a trayful of ingredients off of the counter top. Our team came in second at the trivia quiz. Maryanne |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 17 Nov 08 - 10:42 PM I was going to ask if you had winter yet. I really need snow as my chickens have inexplicably decided that my yard (across US Route 5 from the barn) is a better place to be. Lost one of my pullets today. I hope her death serves a warning to the rest. CamiSu |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 17 Nov 08 - 11:49 PM Does anyone here know anything about vintage perfume bottles? I've found one in a trunk that I can't for the life of me find on any of the antique sites. Elizabeth Arden Blue Grass, 1/2 ounce and there isn't even a mention of this bottle on sites that have older bottles. The bottle even appears to be full. It's in it's original box with a pink cotton pad to hold it in place. Do any of you have a book (Kovels, etc.) that might list this? The perfume was first released in 1934. The cloth-covered blue box also says Coeur D'Amour. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 18 Nov 08 - 09:49 AM Son and DIL coming in a few weeks-- good motivction to finish a couple of bedroom decluts to make them ready. Lot of pillowcases to match up to pillows-- both have been getting flung into the one BR for "later" and sdince I had the space for them and no need for the room I was fine about leaving them for later. In other words, projects like that waiting, but not really out-of-control rooms. Now it will be FUN to sort them out, and Faulkner can come up and keep me company. Once again, efforts toward health intersect-- walking and stairs are on the docket with the colder outside weather. DECLUT TIP Take advantage of special occasions to declut with motivation, and don't beat yourself up for putting them off till the day you can do them with a sense of love in your heart. There's nothing wrong with that, and it brings its own lessons! ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 18 Nov 08 - 10:09 AM In many contexts the idea of "watchers" can be creepy. Think of Henry James, Edgar Allen Poe, and probably Stephen King (I haven't read any of his, but with his reputation for creepy stuff, that must be part of it). And then there's eBay. Where you WANT watchers. . . Finally seeing a little interest on one of my listed items. On another front, I was going through a trunk and found a locked box that I'd forgotten about. I popped it open with a screw driver (didn't break it) and (of course) found the key inside. And a bunch of lovely beads that I will restring and wear. There is one set that I'm not sure if they're plastic or dark amber or what. I'll have to take them down to a local bead shop and ask. There aren't enough for a necklace, I'm imagining some were lost, but if they're something worth stringing, I can interpolate some other different beads between them. There are also a couple of intact little gold baubles on gold chains, and a lovely little green glass crystal with what look like the Czech style crystals down the chain. I'm sure the Swarovski beads were around, though I don't know if they were known by name back then. Who knew 70 years ago or so that the inexpensive but well-made costume jewelry would be just the right touch today? There are also some Richelieu faux pearls, quite lovely (they don't fetch much on eBay, but they are solid and are the type of faux pearls that don't peel apart. I wonder how they make them?) SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 18 Nov 08 - 10:14 AM That's really pretty, Maggie. Here's a woman who has over 200 guides and reviews on perfume bottles etc. on ebay-she may be able to help: Click. She's got Blue Grass listed in 1934! From what I am seeing, it's quite possible your bottle was by a well-known designer and will be the most valuable part as well as the original box. Someone wants $59.99 for an original bar of soap with box of the same fragrance! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 18 Nov 08 - 10:29 AM I saw her list, but unfortunately she is no longer a registered eBay user and her freenet site is no longer up. I find the type listed but the only bottle I find looks a lot different. And unfortunately, searching the Internet for "Blue Grass" or "Bluegrass" brings up mostly music sites! ;-D I wonder if this was some kind of specialty bottle that was filled and the label stuck on? It is in an Elizabeth Arden box, so I'd have to find who or how this was arranged. I'll have to swing by a bookstore and browse the antique and collection books. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maire-aine Date: 18 Nov 08 - 01:14 PM I remember that my mother used to have a bottle of Blue Grass on her dresser. Don't remember what happened to it-- probably was pitched out one day. Who knew it'd be worth something one day. Maryanne |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 18 Nov 08 - 03:16 PM Maggie, the beads sound lovely! You can tell if they are plastic by sticking them with a hot needle. If it goes in and stinks, they are plastic. It won't work if they are amber. Maybe someone at Elizabeth Arden could help; it must be a popular scent as they still sell it. Sorry about the other woman not being current. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 18 Nov 08 - 09:50 PM I visited E. Arden also, but didn't think of just asking them. I'm de-cluttering my garden of a few more snails this evening. I poured bowls of beer in the two gardens that have Swiss chard. I love it anyway, but I'm intending to eat it more often this year. I've been looking for more inexpensive yet nutritious things to use for quick meals, and more ways to use chard. We like quesadillas, and I found another possibility today when I had lunch at a little Mexican restaurant. In the appetizers list they had a spinach quesadilla, with spinach and monterrey jack cheese and served with guacamole and sour cream. I ordered that for lunch and they were wonderful. I could skip the cream and use my homemade (I freeze it) guacamole. Cook and drain the chard and it would work in these. Today I pushed several print projects off of my desk. I'm almost caught up. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 18 Nov 08 - 09:56 PM I reached past the halfway mark! My mind has now been decluttered of over 25,000 words on one project! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 18 Nov 08 - 10:17 PM Work fast, I'm sure you have to get ahead so you don't lose time over the holiday. Or will your family have Thanksgiving around you as you peck away at the keyboard? :-) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 19 Nov 08 - 12:30 AM Not sure what we are doing, Maggie. If I just sit down and start typing I can do 2000 words in an hour or so...the stories are telling themselves, sometimes I can almost hear my dad telling them; fleshing them out and bringing in the everyday happenings has been fun. I'd like the kids to all come over and eat off of my grandma's china that came from the ranch, but it would require, first, all of them wanting to have that big of a deal, and second, borrowing a big enough table or putting two together and clearing out a big space in the LR. Not sure if any of us is up to it, but we'll see!:-) Still a week to go, I hope I am near to being finished by then and can use Sat and Sun to put on the finishing touches. (Sorry for the long, non-decluttering, sort of, post.:-) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Bat Goddess Date: 19 Nov 08 - 09:01 AM Well, it's official -- I've de-cluttered 20 pounds since June. In between my early morning appointment with my surgeon (followup on last December's broken humerus), a mid-morning dental appointment (where I de-cluttered some $$$) and an early afternoon appointment with my primary care physician, I started pulling things out of the closet. (Gee...didn't I just DO this?!?) Found a good-sized bag full to take over to a friend's to check out prior to sending the remainder to Goodwill. We through some papers and magazines this morning. After Tom checks out the recipes, the magazines to to the same friend as above. And I actually threw out some of the clippings, etc. Gotta head out to work, Linn |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 19 Nov 08 - 09:58 AM Declutting a pile of mementoes from a recent honor Hardi received, to mail to his mom. She'll bring the cards back, that he received, at her next visit, and I'll let her buy the next Memento Box to hold them-- the last two are full! :~) She'll enjoy going thru the older boxes on her next visit. Pic, cards, stories to share... ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 19 Nov 08 - 10:28 AM Oh, BEST tip yet... Had added an extension-length of hose to our shower hose for dog-washing..... But MUCH more fun uising it to flush and blast-clean the toidy the plumber needs to visit! Hot, HOT water.... tho it sure felt funny to sit over the bowlful of hot water left behind, a few minutes later. (TMI Alert!!!) Steamed my ass! :~) ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maeve Date: 19 Nov 08 - 12:46 PM LOL Susan. I've been drying crimini (portabella) mushrooms. 5 pounds fresh dehydrates to about 3 quarts dry. It's bitter cold with a strong wind today. Until I can rid myself of this migraine, I'll have to stay inside and try for little spots of clearing out. Keep it up, one and all. You're making great progress. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 19 Nov 08 - 02:35 PM And you are too, dear [said gently so as not to hurt the head] ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 20 Nov 08 - 12:01 AM Now comes a holiday push--plans have been made, Thanksgiving is here a week from tomorrow. The trick is to put things AWAY and not just shove them OUT OF THE WAY. That makes all of the difference the day after the holiday! SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Liz the Squeak Date: 20 Nov 08 - 03:54 AM Another envelope of photos scanned... one more thing saved for posterity on the external drive, and one more thing to put away. LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maeve Date: 20 Nov 08 - 06:45 AM 12 degrees F this morning. It will be a hard winter.... Thanks Susan. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Liz the Squeak Date: 20 Nov 08 - 07:31 AM Make that 3 envelopes!! A Good morning. LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 20 Nov 08 - 10:58 AM I've been trying to get set up to digitize a lot of my slides, and I bought a scanner on eBay last spring. It doesn't work and I sent it out for repair. The news from Sony is not good--they can't repair it. The good news is that I bought a warranty, so I have to send in the paperwork. Publishing stuff at work is moving forward, I'm gradually getting caught up. This is very good news. I have items ending today on eBay and more things to list, but I'll use the timed listing feature and set them so they start in a day or two. Anything listed today ends on Thanksgiving and I'm sure won't get the attention I want, so I'll let it run during the week and end when people turn to the computer to shop. The weather forecast makes it sound like tomorrow is the end of the veggie gardening down here, so I'll trim back the eggplants (I'll leave roots and see what comes back next spring). Time to pull out the faucet covers, they'll be needed soon. Also time to get more hay for the dogs and winterize their stall. They really have the best of both worlds--they come and go at will in the yard or in their stall, and they have a cosy area with dog houses and hay under a tarp to help keep in heat inside the garage door. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 20 Nov 08 - 11:02 AM 1. I sent my MIL a packet yesterday, half of which she will bring back on her next visit to add to Hardi's memento box (or to start the next one). When she goes thru the existing 2 boxes (hasn't seen 'em yet), we can purge any that H doesn't want to keep "forever." She comes annually, so that can be a nice annual activity. 2. I started picking this year's Advent music the other day; our new Deacon is going to take a service for us so I needed to get her picks done ASAP anyway. This involved rotating the year ending out of my carry-all (I use an old, beat-up Bible case), putting in the new year's Musician's Handbook we use for planning, and today I labeled the binders holding the previous 3 years' worth. === That Handbook has become a sort of weekly snapshot-- no, textshot-- of the Sat. Svc.-- people, illnesses and recoveries, deaths, parish activities, music "learnings," etc.. At some time during each service, I jot in the attendance and anything notable that's going on. I'll also refer back as the 3 years in the liturgical cycle as they rotate-- "What did we play LAST time for this set of readings? Do we wanna do it again or is there something new we might like to try?" It's a good reference as well in case the seasonal packet of lesson inserts may not always come home from the parish office the day I decide to sit down to plan a block of services. Of course I could look up the scheduled readings online or in the Bible, but I like to have the printed version to scribble song ideas as they come, and those old copies offer that info previous info, as well as the song titles we actually used. It's a simple and nifty system. :~) --> A new fella was going to join our band. So I offered him a planning resource; he retorted that he always prefers to just wing it without regard for the lessons the people are hearing. "The Spirit guides ME." I smiled a silver-haired smile and responded gently, "Guides me, too.... Never been in charge of a music program, right?" We call it "Liturgics," but any performing musician knows the difference between a set and a jam: even folk music in church benefits from planning a "set list"! :~) === Did I already post that I organized our players' binders into a new bench-shelf in the church? So handy to be able to easily stroll over during the service and grab a binder to swap in a different song if a requestor comes in after the serice has started. No longer hiding far away in a dusty room with shelves I can't reach. Prettily arranged, too; the bench came to us when we arrived, from my predecessor. A nice visual for me to meditate upon-- all the memories collected into that bench and those binders. Hardio fixed the bench-- by cutting off and retrimming the parts my predecessor's dogs had chewed up! :~) ~Susan |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 20 Nov 08 - 12:43 PM That sounds like a really neat and meaningful record of things, Susan. Good for you! I have met my goal of 30,000 words by today, in fact this morning I went over that to 31,048! Quite pleased with myself. I may even knock off and do some other things like list ebay items, the few I have ready or my books at my bookstore, or just go take a nap. I am off tonight to take Morgan to see Riders in the Sky, so a nap will be good.:-) Or, I might go play a mindless game on the computer first. Oh, and I did the dishes before 8a this morning! Plus two loads of laundry yesterday. I also got a job writing content for an English firm. Got my first assignment to write 20 articles of 250 words by Dec. 1oth on a specific subject. I suddenly feel rather busy, good busy, but busy.:-) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 20 Nov 08 - 12:51 PM Good news on the freelancing. Did you find them through Writer's Digest? |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 20 Nov 08 - 01:03 PM Nope, not sure where I found them. Maybe in one of the other online sources I check. It may have been at Journalism Jobs. I think it was, because at first I thought it was a bogus thing. After checking them out and receiving their writers' guidelines with payment schedule etc. and filling out the writer profile etc. they sent me a a congrats, here's your first assignment. It shouldn't be too difficult. The pay doesn't sound that exciting for 250 words, but if one can do four per hour it's at least above minimum wage and they do pay more depending on the project and word count. I had applied for editor which they don't need right now, but have me on the list as I would prefer it. Anyway, we'll see how it goes. It may be too boring!:-) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maeve Date: 20 Nov 08 - 03:42 PM 8oo narcissus bulbs moved into the cellar to await potting up. They will provide our early spring income as forced bulbs. The last of this year's kale has been cut and brought in for blanching and freezing. I'll dehydrate any big stems and powder them to use in soup stock. Potatoes, bulk rolled oats, apples, and pears to the cellar. This will open up space in the kitchen and diningroom. We have too much outside work to do for it to be this cold this early. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 20 Nov 08 - 04:33 PM I accidentally scared a bunny from where she was hanging out in the front yard. Not a good place, because I've let the dogs out to chase voles. I'll have to keep them away from that side of the yard. Lots to do to get ready for next week. The holidays just got a little easier--that refund means I don't have my scanner, but I will have that cash. That card was paid off, so this goes in the bank. Square Trade was very easy to work with. Something to consider if you're buying something that you do actually want a warranty for (or have something from a store that is going out of business). I asked them to mail a check. They were going to credit my PayPal account, but PayPal has already had their cut out of that transaction, thank you very much. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Penny S. Date: 20 Nov 08 - 05:48 PM I might as well join in here. I started the year with a nice little day pattern including decluttering. Last year I stopped teaching, and so had stuff around the house connected with the job - if you know about teaching you will know the sort of stuff. I also had the stuff I brought back from the cleared classroom. First thing in the morning, befor getting up, I went into the spare room, aka store room, and went through a few things. Once a week, I would go off to Oxfam with a bag or two of stuff - I was purging the wardrobes, too. Gradually I cleared the piles of books on the stairs, put old worksheets in recycling, made some progress. Then, in April, my Dad died very suddenly. Half each week was spent at his house with my sister. We still haven't finished there, and there have been delays due to my having a couple of car prangs and a fall. More recently, a friend's mother suffered from carbon monoxide poisoning. Did you know that people got that from sitting by a gas cooker to keep warm, with the windows shut? We had to do some decluttering there. A major task which prevented me from doing either my own or Dad's clearing. It also prevented me reading the newspaper, so there are piles of those at home. I had to put up the friend in the spare room, still aka store room, putting some of the stored stuff in my bedroom. My sister is allowing me to store some of it temporarily at Dad's, and I'm aiming to put bootsale or ebay stuff there so that we can operate from one address. I have made a set of empty cardboard boxes to take down for Dad's books. There's no point in rushing to sell the house at the moment. This week I have been clearing a lot of space in the spare room, so that the horizontal space aka bedside table can serve as a place for the lamp, some suitable reading matter, water and tissues. My sister has given me a mattress she wanted a good home for, so I have been able to throw out the rubbishy old one on the folding bed. we've both done some decluttering there. Have you noticed the strange effect that as soon as you return from the charity shop, you find the beginning of the next collection? After taking the results of a ruthless clear of bric a brac given me by people I can't remember about, and items I bought because they might be useful (why I thought I would make filter coffee when I was camping, i don't know), I came back to search for a sweater and find a skirt exactly the same colour and fabric as one I bought recently as part of a suit. Time for another clothes purge, I think. Penny |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Penny S. Date: 20 Nov 08 - 05:51 PM And that's leaving out the time I haven't had to read the books that I need to read before purging them. And to find the books of songs I had promised to send people, and do that. Today I got rid of a set of panpipes and a penny whistle. Earlier I got rid of an autoharp, which, now I am singing from the floor at a couple of clubs, I am regretting. Penny |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 20 Nov 08 - 06:07 PM Two friends from church came up to help in general decluttering, and we attacked the two bedrooms upstairs. One has still my daughter's stuff she has not taken with her, as well as Ben's overlay for the years he has been camping in there (5-since the fire) and the other was trying to get finished for Ben so I could turn Wavestar's into a guest room and ... Well, I need to move an exchange student in there so WS can be in "his" space as she is actually 2 when you count her husband. They were unbelievable. Fabio had been in there and wondered just *where* he was going to actually sleep. They now are clean!!!! I think we were at it for about 4-5 hours. AND my office is approachable, so I may get moved back up there this winter! (I moved down to the Living Room last winter just to sort of recharge. David had spent most of his last year in the LR, but the office seemed to have more ghosts, and I just could NOT get warm, and so retreated to the LR) I feel like I have possibilities! CamiSu |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Liz the Squeak Date: 20 Nov 08 - 06:13 PM Possibilities are always a good thing CamiSu - I had that feeling when I found the table up here! Sometimes it takes a while for the ghosts to settle, but I'm sure they will soon. Take it easy and don't rush yourself. LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Penny S. Date: 20 Nov 08 - 06:33 PM Maggie, if the beads are nice, you don't want to test them destructively. I found some tests for amber (which is a natural plastic with a resiny smell if you warm it gently in your hands) on the internet when a friend found a piece on the beach. As I was trying to tell it from pebble, the floating it in brine test was useful - but plastics might do that as well. Penny |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 20 Nov 08 - 08:09 PM Wow! While I was out some really desperate characters posted here! Welcome to this menagerie, Penny, many of us are here with estates we're trying to sort out and thin. CamiSu, it looks like you're getting your second wind. I think ghosts are part of the reason why we end up with this stuff, waiting for emotions to settle as we try to find the "clear margin" between where the precious items distinctly tied to loved ones end and all of the extra clutter begins. Penny, there are some lovely yellow glass beads that I'll simply restring, there are enough for that, but the reddish dark brown beads are a partial strand that someone salvaged and put on a cord with the clasp tied to the ends. I'll do a little research before I figure out what these are. Thanks for the brine hint. They are a lopsided graduated set so I'll have to use them in a couple of places if I want to use all of them. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 20 Nov 08 - 11:04 PM Good for you, Penny and Cami-Su...sounds as though you have both done really well. I agree on giving yourself time with the ghosts, Cami-Su. Penny it's nice to see you in here! Not decluttering, but speaking of old family things, for the first time in probably 10-15 years, we are having a traditional Tksgiving dinner at our house using my grandma's wedding china. It's tucked away in a closet and it will feel so good to get it out and use it. Working on the book in which she is a character has brought it to mind...ghosts walking through my mind as I write about them. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 20 Nov 08 - 11:22 PM I have a set like that, in a trunk. I don't think I'm ready to pull it out, but what an idea, maybe for next year. We've begun the process of pooling resources and rounding up the usual suspects to come over for our always enjoyable and always eclectic evening for Thanksgiving. And while the house isn't finished, I think it will be a lot easier to get ready this year. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maire-aine Date: 20 Nov 08 - 11:53 PM Nice to hear about all the progress. I'm organizing the holiday decorations-- the staging area is in the upstairs hallway-- so I'll be able to "hit the ground running" next week. I'll put up the tree after Thanksgiving, but I'll need to clean the LR floor and move some furniture. I think I'll move the work computer and the printer into the spare room upstairs. My cousin invited me for Thanksgiving dinner with her daughter/SIL & 2 grandchildren, so that should be fun. I won't have to cook. On Tuesday, I mustered up my courage & did an open mic. Scared out of my wits, because I haven't done any solo vocals in years, and I'm not much of a guitar player. Turned out okay I guess; folks seemed to like it. There were a lot of folks there to perform, and a lot of really good musicians, so it was pretty intimidating. Gotta learn (at least refresh) 4 more songs before I go back again, probably the week after next. Maryanne |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Penny S. Date: 21 Nov 08 - 03:43 AM SRS, I have some irregular amber beads I bought from a bric a brac stall made up as a bracelet, which I have restrung with some of those little cylindrical gold beads to make them go further to make a necklace. (I can't get the metal beads locally any more, but they are good for making a few good stones go a long way.) Today I am moving out four sturdy cardboard boxes and a load of jiffy bags for ebaying to Dad's house, along with my fabric stash. I am also seeing if my sister wants, or knows someone who wants, a stack of music ms paper I rescued when the school threw it out. If she doesn't, do you think anyone could use it here? we are talking at least a ream. Penny |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 22 Nov 08 - 01:21 AM Ah! We can't have this dropping off the page! Tomorrow will be a day of lots of activity and getting stuff actually put away and not just piled up somewhere. Tonight I cleared out in the fridge, cutting up a bunch of peppers to freeze. I have to redo the freezer (i.e., remove more glacier). It's the ice maker that is the problem, or at least the hose to it. But the tiny little faucet behind the fridge doesn't turn off, even in the "off" position, so I have to turn off the water to the house and come in and cap that fitting or replace the valve. The cap was $1.45, a plumber is probably $145. I know what my choice will be! SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Liz the Squeak Date: 22 Nov 08 - 03:12 AM I know the feeling too.. I fixed our boiler with a £1.48 fuse on Thursday, rather than the £140 an engineer would charge us for call out and a new pump! LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: GUEST,MAG posting from work Date: 22 Nov 08 - 01:01 PM Cat shut off the computer last night; he does that. Also jealous of the phone -- either one. I'll try to post tomorrow during his outside stroll. By then I hope to be working on the leaves; although it is pouring rain now and the one not in the carport will be wet. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 22 Nov 08 - 03:06 PM Sometimes it is nice to see that planning ahead really does work. Several years ago I had to repair a leak at the water meter and at the same time I replaced the old hard-to-turn faucet handle with a gate valve in the nearly household water shutoff vault. This morning I pulled the lid and remembered all of that previous work and expense as I reached in and easily moved the gate valve to "off." I then disconnected the fridge water tubing, topped the brass pipe with the new brass cap and it worked perfectly. Water back on, no leak. I taped the tubing to the back of the fridge, and used a hairdryer to melt the ice. I'll reserve the top shelf for ice trays for filling the still-functional ice dispenser. Now to get to the de-clutter work I actually had in mind for the weekend. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Genie Date: 22 Nov 08 - 05:35 PM Think YOUR house needs de-cluttering? Check out this "Best Of" Craigslist ad: Light Housekeeping Needed |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 22 Nov 08 - 10:35 PM I got rid of one bag of stuff beside the back door--I planted all of the day lily bulbs a neighbor brought over a few weeks ago. They'll look lovely in the bed out front, where I have been trying to build up the supply of lilies. I am assuming the "light housekeeping" ad was a setup? SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 22 Nov 08 - 10:49 PM It sure looks as though it was, Maggie. Somebody went to a lot of trouble to make that mess, regardless!:-) We will be decluttering tomorrow, clearing out and cleaning to get ready for turkey day. I only have another 15,433 words to go to declutter my ancestors from my head into my book! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 23 Nov 08 - 01:03 AM I cleared a kitchen counter and put up an under cabinet light so it now is a great little workspace. Looks nice. I don't know what I will eventually leave there (it is beside the sink) but for now I put away the drain board and thinned out the stuff that used to sit on it. It all took up more space than it needed to. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: MAG Date: 23 Nov 08 - 03:32 PM Bright sunny day. Perfect for shredding leaves. "Light housekeeping" has me beat, but not by nearly enough. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 23 Nov 08 - 04:32 PM Finally got Rog to carry out the one box of books left to go to the library and a bag of clothes to go to sally army. More laundry done and put in our bedroom, not away, but it's getting there. Morgan called to ask if he could come over while his parents went shopping. I told him yes, but come ready to clean. Do you know, that 5 year old loves to clean house and did a great job! He emptied all of the trash cans, took the trash out, and put in new liners. Held the trash bag open for Rog to empty the dust pan; helped me mop the whole house; and used his own "wipes" he brought with him to wipe down a few surfaces, plus he brought his own feather duster! He even wiped down the front of the washing machine. I might have to borrow him every Sunday!**bg** When he got all done he asked if I wanted to watch him dance, which I love to do, so we put on a CD of dumbek tunes and he went to town. I even did a little belly dancing type moves! I still have a lot to do before Thursday, but I am mostly done for today. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 24 Nov 08 - 05:29 PM Mudcat has been de-cluttered of a few dozen threads. Sounds like the kind of dancing where you want to be sure the curtains are drawn, Kat. Don't want to get a reputation in the neighborhood! (Ha!) Washer drain overflowed, so it needs close monitoring. I need your five-year-old to come teach my 16-year-old some cleaning tricks. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 25 Nov 08 - 12:31 AM I'm listing oddball things on eBay right now--I thought I'd try the approach of "this is in my way, it is intended for eBay, why not just list it?" Not the most efficient method, and I need to put some more substantial stuff out, but it has been interesting. Money from the t-shirts goes to my daughter. Kat, did you get a screen telling you that there are strict rules about posting political memorabilia when you posted those rally passes? I just put up an auction for a 1920s Theodore Roosevelt lapel pin, one of a gazillion left over from a fundraising effort. The park rangers used to just give them away--I don't know if they still do, but I picked up a few 30 years ago. I thought I'd unload a couple, but that is a pretty intimidating message from eBay. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 25 Nov 08 - 10:10 AM I did, Maggie, and I read it through including visiting the link given. It's basically just their way of trying to make sure there are no fake memorabilia items sold there. Collectors of such take authenticity very seriously, from what I read.:-) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 25 Nov 08 - 10:24 AM I visited the other link also. Shifting into a higher gear today--rounding up brine ingredients, a bag of ice (even if the icemaker was hooked up, it couldn't make enough ice for this event in a reasonable amount of time), bringing in the cooler. Cleaning the house. Amazing how much more you can see when the holiday looms. . . SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 25 Nov 08 - 11:43 AM I declutted a shelf-ful of videos I caught (Hardi's fave TV series) into a nice box with new video labels, against the day when Hardi may have to stay home with the dogs (and the work) while I adventure in Philly. Later today I will declut some cinders for the "new" back step I tweaked, to have not only cinders where I need to scatter them on MY STEP but access OUT to do daily winter outdoor chores in the SUNLIGHT. Shouting, yes. ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Penny S. Date: 25 Nov 08 - 04:03 PM That craigslist link looks awfully like stuff from the "Children of Hoarders" website which is of compulsive hoarders' homes. It concerns me that it was NOT posted by the hoarder, and there are psychological issues involved with clearing other people's stuff. You wouldn't believe how attached to old newspapers and used carrier bags someone can be. Yesterday I emptied a plastic box, throwing some things away, but mostly refiled them. I mended a hem marker, sort of - the superglue didn't want to stick so it's done with sellotape. I took a load of old National Geographics into the school I used to work at. I emptied a cardboard box, and found a folded one which can also go down to Dad's. Today I found some more Nat Geogs and took them into school along with an old laptop. I sorted out and got rid of a few Open University texts, but kept too many. Moved them to take less space. These things were in an odd piece of furniture I bought at a secondhand shop ages ago. This consisted, when I bought it, of three boxes with drop front openings and a drawer on top, made of mahogany veneered chipboard. The boxes had been assembled wrongly, so that the doors were flush with the tops, and the previous owner had joined them vertically with a sort of step backwards to allow opening. I redid this, and found that under the drawer was a finished top, so I have the drawer on legs as a dressing table. One of the drop doors had its bracing thing broken off, and today I had to reglue it. This entailed going out to buy new clamps, since my knitting machine G-clamps kept slipping off. When the glue dries, I'll have to drill through a wooden black to add new screws - the old ones had pulled out the board because of the glue, and had to be hacksawed off. I aim to repack the contents so that some of the external stuff is out of sight, as originally intended when I bought the thing. But there is more to throw. Another thing today was a very early draft of something I wrote ages ago - that's gone. I might shred it first. I have also been decluttering old video tapes - since Dad died I have been recording things, but not watching them, and I am gradually working through "Lark Rise to Candleford" "Secret Army" liberating Brussels, "Ashes to Ashes" and other stuff. The trouble is that even as I watch, I am building up new tapes as I still can't spend the time to watch in order. The person whose house I have worked on is enthusing about "Little Dorrit" but I missed the first episodes because of what was going on, so I can't watch off air. Ho hum. Penny |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Penny S. Date: 25 Nov 08 - 04:14 PM I also emptied another cardboard box. And having cleared a surface to be a dressing table, with mirror, again, have put a friend's bags of clothes on it, off the floor. The spare room now looks like a spare room with rather too much stuff in it, rather than a store room with a bed lurking in it. Penny |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 25 Nov 08 - 05:44 PM I once did some carpentry in a house that had at least one room that you could get no closer than a foot to the floor on account of all the JUNK in it. I am enjoying my less cluttered digs and even got the counter of the kitchen cleaned off. Even washed the reusable plastic bags! My neighbor was suddenly out of work so he and my 16 yr-old started to put new joists up under (one of) my set lofts. It already looks sturdier. And next week I get wireless!!! Declutter the Pergolesi and Scarlatti out of my folder and put the "Messiah" in. and after next Sunday I get my Sunday evenings back until I start rehearsing for something else. Cami |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 25 Nov 08 - 05:59 PM Penny, you've been busy. CamiSu, you're lucky to have such a talented neighbor and son. Joists are a lot of work! Me, I de-cluttered my daughter's boyfriend's car of two bald tires and de-cluttered my wallet of the cash to do it. At least they'd replaced the two other tires fairly recently, and thankfully various parents are all kicking into this enterprise--keeping the kids on the road so they can go to jobs to earn money to keep going to college. In the last two weeks a new battery, repairing a leaking coolant hose, replacing the dead alternator. And now it is running rough--O2 sensor isn't happy. [sigh] SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Liz the Squeak Date: 25 Nov 08 - 06:20 PM I'm in the process of decluttering my wallet too.. a new boiler is required... but at least that will de clutter my kitchen of a 4ft boiler that overpowers the room, and it's a pretty small room to start with! Ho hum... we may have to start a serious declutter and ebay stuff to pay for replacement radiators that will no doubt be part of the deal... But at least we should stay warm and not have to fork out £120 every month for a new circuit board or a new pump or a new divertor valve or a new something else.... LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 25 Nov 08 - 07:02 PM Pergolesi is clutter?!?!?!? Tonight I declutted the guest rooms-- fam coming. Including Febrezing the older pillows and then (when dry) putting them in pillow 'tectors and new pillowcases. WEARING the new support shoes to stay warm and keep moving. ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 25 Nov 08 - 07:38 PM LOL...I didn't get much done, today. Morgan came over after school and took out a pizza box for me. Oh, I did have to go out this morning for about an hour and a half. When I got back I started writing on my nanowrimo novel. My brain has now emptied 42,832 words onto the PC..only 7,168 to go before the 30th. I think I am going to make it! we have managed to keep the house fairly clean since doing a bang up job on it on Sunday. I have a few dishes and a wall area to scrub tomorrow, but that's about it, besides cooking the cranberries and making the pies. I think Morgan may come spend the day with me, so that should be fun. He likes to cook so maybe I can bribe him into cleaning a bit more,too.:-) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: MAG Date: 25 Nov 08 - 07:54 PM Succeeded in getting the other female stray to the vet's for spaying today.(wallet declutter: $150.) You know, my vet says the animal shelters are experiencing a terrible glut; people are abandoning everything, even horses. It's terrible. Please do what you can for innocent animals. 6 hours of cleaning Sunday and you can sorta see a difference. I am probably one of those hoarders. I was hoarding cardboard boxes when I really thought I was getting another job and would relocate. Back to my job. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 25 Nov 08 - 09:35 PM Kat--I hope you have a backup file somewhere outside the computer? Just a thought . . . you can even email the file(s) to yourself somewhere else if it can park on a remote server and be there for "just in case the 'puter crashes." A friend sent some things for me to try listing on eBay. If they work, he'll list them himself, but he's not experienced at it now so these are a test. Plus some things left in a neighboring apartment (I haven't opened the box yet--I expect it to be a bit smoky--harder to sell--maybe I'll go put the contents in the back of the pickup, with the screened windows open, so fresh air can get to them.) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 25 Nov 08 - 10:29 PM Ya know, Maggie....THANK YOU! I just saved it to the external HD. Can't believe I hadn't already done that. I might email it to my google account, too, just to be safe. I can also encrypt it and put it in my nanowrimo page. phew! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 25 Nov 08 - 10:43 PM It would be a real bitch to lose that work. I think I'd go quickly insane if that happened. Back to de-cluttering--working on some lots of paperback mysteries for eBay this evening. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 26 Nov 08 - 01:01 AM LOL No, Pergolesi is not clutter, and neither is Scarlatti, but when you've been obsessing a bit over them and sung yourself a bit ragged (those tenor parts are LOW!) it is a bit of a relief to turn to something new. SRS-I DO feel lucky to have Allen nearby. Years ago, we were building the addition above the kitchen, and had gotten into the trim, which is more my specialty, and Allen was an eager student. At one point his girlfriend came up to see and we were there with our (equally old) tool belts on and she looks at me and asks "So Cami, is Allen teaching you some carpentry?" We purt near burst out laughing as Allen explained that at that point I was the teacher... But for the heavy stuff that I just can't seem to even get started on by myself--what a Godsend! (and we have a LOT of fun doing fussy stuff. We work well together. ) Cami |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 26 Nov 08 - 10:25 AM LOL, yeah. I can't remember now what Pergolesi I sang in choir years ago, but it was SO LOVELY I just could not scan that "decluttered" sentence! :~) But yes, once it's firmly in the head (I wish it still was), the dots are extraneous, aren't they. ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Penny S. Date: 26 Nov 08 - 02:39 PM I emptied part of one of the three stacked boxes into another, compacting things somewhat, making space for putting external stuff in. I took some of Dad's clothes to Oxfam, with a mysteriously duplicated skirt of mine and a mini book of Punch cartoons. spent part of the morning shredding. Tomorrow morning is bin day, and they will be taking off the recycling paper. I tried decluttering the C drive of my Asus EeePC by moving the Onspeed program to the D drive, but it then didn't work and nor did IE. The C drive, 4 Gb, is very small for putting programs on (well, not compared with my first computer, which had 20 Mb). I had a letter addressed to my troubling neighbour at my address which I had to declutter to another who has his address. I found a house I could afford in the rural hinterland. By a good architect. But the village has lost its first philosophical rapture, and the shopping area is scruffy with empty shops. Penny |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maire-aine Date: 26 Nov 08 - 04:58 PM Since I'm going to my cousin's house for Thanksgiving, I don't have to cook a big meal. Instead I de-cluttered a whole shelf in my freezer, but roasting all the beef bones (I had 3 bags of them, plus some frozen pieces of onions & celery), then made beef stock. I'll make the soup on Friday. I also filled up the gas can for the snowblower, so I'm set for the weather, altho the forecast is for cold but sunny & dry on Thursday. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone. Maryanne |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 26 Nov 08 - 10:29 PM I'm not gaining much space right now, mostly rearranging it. I picked up a bag of bananas (a local grocery puts their ripe bananas in a bag that can be anywhere from 5 - 8 pounds for $.99), and after eating quite a few I still had enough to make a quadruple batch of banana bread. Several of the loaves will go in the freezer after they cool. They make great gifts for co-workers the holidays. We're not doing the big meal tomorrow, we're doing it Friday, so I have more time to putter and clean before the crowd descends. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 27 Nov 08 - 12:31 AM The banana bread is packed away in the freezer and the kitchen counter looks like a |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 27 Nov 08 - 10:15 AM Oh, look! Google ads are for a "House cleaning checklist" and "We Clean For You." I have an extra day until my big cooking thing, so I'm still puttering. I did pick up buttermilk to make a nice brunch (my son won't be up till late) of pancakes and bacon today, and I'll continue to move stuff, put stuff away, and hopefully build a stack of stuff to go to Goodwill that I'll put in the pickup so we're not tripping over it in here. I have to make veggie broth this afternoon for tonight's brining of the bird. Everything else happens kind of all at once tomorrow, in slow motion. I wonder if the neighbors will notice or care if I mow my back yard today? Not a typical sound one might here on Thanksgiving, but I need to mulch the leaves and it is supposed to rain tomorrow. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Bat Goddess Date: 27 Nov 08 - 12:08 PM Tom just came in, resting his hand on my shoulder and repeated what he had just heard on the radio -- "Remember, guests come first for the conversation, second for the food, land if they get bored with those, they'll look around to see if your house is clean." Which reminds me, I really need to clear off the table and empty a chair before Jeri gets here. Linn |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Bat Goddess Date: 27 Nov 08 - 12:10 PM That's restED not restING -- wish I could fix my typos. (Better yet, wish I could proofread my own posts BEFORE I hit Submit.) Linn |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 27 Nov 08 - 01:13 PM I understand Linn-- particularly if it is one that makes sense to the spellchecker. I heard the quote too but I was sure Land was not there! (bg) Gotta go to Orford where the rest of my family has gathered. Cami |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Penny S. Date: 27 Nov 08 - 02:09 PM Cleared some more space in the storage unit, by putting some stuff in with the University things, and stacking the rest more neatly. Found some more stuff for shredding. The bin men took away a whole binfull of paper, cans and plastic bottles. Then the day turned to waste. Yesterday I found that my digital TV set top box had gone berserk with the numbering. This was to do with the Freeview system having changed. This morning I phoned the makers, and was told that they have no plans to upgrade the software. So I researched things on the internet and went off to Currys for a twin tuner box. They had to process the purchase with paper because their machines were down. Then the thing proved not to connect to the VHS. Went to buy new leads - paperwork again. Still no joy. Took the things back and they found the dockets, wrote cancelled on them, as they didn't have one to change. Then I had a phone call from the card company to check the purchase. Back to the shop to check what they had done. Turned out that they had rung to authorise the transaction, but of course it hadn't gone through, so looked odd. Total waste. Penny |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 27 Nov 08 - 02:20 PM Oops, backslid... BUT cool learning-- This time of year, crazy-busy church stuff. (Progressively crazier Advent/Crimmiss/February, brief respite, then Lent-Easter nuts again till summer.) So-- I had to break into the new-nighties stash due to laundry pile-up. BUT, as I put away the just-laundered items, the summery colors go RIGHT into the stash-zone, and the newer, worn-once items go into the "wear now" zone. Thus! I will stop wearing to death the summery colors, go back to the limited number of wear-now items that encourage more frequent laundering, and have the summery colors to look forward to when it warms back up. Rotate the nighties-- never thought of it! ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: LilyFestre Date: 27 Nov 08 - 02:58 PM Recently sold my Nana's house. I got rid of most everything but there are still some boxes of antiques that I haven't put away. These boxes are at the house and the boxes of everything else currently resides in a storage building. Today, the shadow box is going up as well as a photograph of my Nana as a child...it's a large oval photo in a very old frame....it's kind of nice to have her in this house with me. :) In other decluttering news, the piano is coming out of the music room and out into the music room where I think I will play it more often. The fiddle's been out more lately too. My students are busy learning new Christmas music and since I have a piano in my classroom, I play the music and we work on the words..it's kind of pushed me to get my music back out...I had to tuck it away for awhile. Now it's calling so I'm going to put it where it's more easily accessible. DH just got himself a guitar rack to do the same thing....no more hassles with the cases..if he feels like playing his acoustic, there it is. If he wants electric, there it is. If he wants his 12 string, there it is. Lap steel? Same thing. Anyway, it's all part of the decluttering. I have a few days off for the Thanksgiving holiday and part of these days off will involve getting ready for a home study for our upcoming adoption. I have been making plans for the nursery....currently my office....so lots of decluttering will be going on in there as well this week. I'm actually looking forward to it!!! Michelle |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: LilyFestre Date: 27 Nov 08 - 05:43 PM Just finished packing up 9 bags of clothes that are far too large for me these days. I've had them sitting on top of my hope chest in our bedroom for over a year now. The pile is so high that it blocked sunlight from one of the windows. Now the clothes are all packed up and will be given to a favorite charity tomorrow. Having actually having to look for these sized clothing, I know they are hard to find and I remember how excited I would get to find them at Sal's or other places. I'm hoping that same excitement I experienced in finding many of the things I have bagged up, will be passed on to someone else. There are even brand new things packed up in there, price tags still on them, but if they don't fit, they don't fit, right? They are no longer of use to me. It feels good to get that all out of the way. I also packed up 2 bag fulls of shoes. It seems that as I have moved down the scale, my feet have gotten smaller. Man, this feels good. Antiques to be unpacked in a bit. Michelle :) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 28 Nov 08 - 12:53 AM Time to brine the turkey. The big meal is tomorrow here. Had to talk a friend into coming over, he was going to cook a turkey at his house on his own tomorrow. He's often here for the holiday, but was thinking of passing. He called here for an obscure ingredient--methinks he needed someone to tell him we really do want him to come over this year. His mother died last summer--he needs to get in with a group of old friends this holiday, of all holidays. I've counted up and packed away a bunch of brochures and maps that have been on the dining room table for ages. I'll take them to work and donate them to the Special Collections next week. I've rearranged the room and will set the table early so it looks great when people arrive. The kids are in the living room doing "old home week" tonight--in this instance, they're watching an old VCR tape of Peter Pan with Mary Martin. I hear gales of laughter coming from the front room. OOoo--the pirate music just played. . . I'd better take my brochures out to the truck or they'll end up back in the clutter again. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 28 Nov 08 - 12:50 PM Rearranging the dining room, moving out some bulky furniture. It's beginning to look nice. I did manage to get a surprising amount of this stuff actually put away and not just set aside, but now comes the "just move it out of the way" stage. Alas. Maybe next year it will all be like clockwork. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 28 Nov 08 - 10:19 PM Less than 4,000 words to go in decluttering the novel from my head; my stuffed-up head cold head, the one which couldn't breathe at all last night so also didn't sleep. Much better, today and thank goodness I have been able to write. I have until midnight Sunday night to get to the 50,000 goal. I am just to the part where my grandparents get hitched.:-) |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 29 Nov 08 - 01:07 AM GO, Kat, GO!! Yessss! The finish is in SIGHT!!!! I moved stuff out of my dining room to try to make room for everyone at the table. It didn't quite work, but I'm not going to move stuff back in, I'm going to see what I can do with what is in there, and I'll consolidate some of the stuff in trunks around here and maybe sell a couple of trunks. 3,999 doesn't lend itself to a catchy song (99 bottles of beer on the wall, for example) so I'll just urge you to unclutter as fast as your delicate little fingers can scramble across the keyboard. :) SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maire-aine Date: 29 Nov 08 - 10:05 PM Got lots done today. Found a box of Toby mugs that I had misplaced. Also found a page of song lyrics that I know I had printed out; the page has the URL too, so I can retrieve an electronic copy. I mailed off my Secret Santa present. Whew! Made a pot of beef-noodle soup and used up the last of a bag of apples to make apple crisp. The (artificial) tree is up, but not decorated yet. I need to get new lights. The wreaths and swags & "kissing balls" are all hung, and and some decorations on the mantel. I think my plans for working part-time have been derailed by year-end budget squeeze. Not looking at any work until February at the earliest, if that. Oh, well. More time for music. Maryanne |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 29 Nov 08 - 10:30 PM Thanks, Maggie! I did it!!I think it was about 230p my time. I called Rog in to watch while I typed in the last two words and the word count went to 50,000! I had to add a few more as I had some footnotes which will eventually be edited out or incorporated in the text, but anyway nanowrimo's official counter didn't count them, so I actually wound up with an "official" count of 50,157. I've got loads to add, research and move around and change, but it sure feels good to have done it, esp. after all these years of saying I was going to get my dad's book done. Hmmmm...I just checked, it was four years ago, to the day that my dad passed on. That brings a few tears. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 29 Nov 08 - 10:30 PM Actually did some real decluttering, too! The rest of the day I knew I needed some physical exercise, so we went out and got rid of some more of the trash and boxes of my sisters' stuff which had been ruined by weather out of the driveway. We also covered the rest of it better, I hope. It looks better, at least. Also moved all of the furniture back into the living room and decided to leave one table out there which had been in the tiny office and bugged me. We put it by the front door to catch purses, mail, etc. and moved the sewing cabinet which had been there, back to the office. It looks better, too! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: GUEST Date: 30 Nov 08 - 09:54 AM Congratulations on reaching your goal, kat. Such meaningful timing, too. We've continued to clear out. Clothing, books, and who knows what else went to the swap shop in the village yesterday. Laundry and outside work today, with messy weather arriving by tonight. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: maeve Date: 30 Nov 08 - 10:03 AM Decluttered my cookie as well. Sorry about that. |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 30 Nov 08 - 10:17 AM !!!KAT!!! The FC guy who took Hardi's bike offered an item I had JUST decided I HAD to have: double bed sheets. We picked them up Friday night and I went through the whole lot as soon as I got up yesterday AM. It turned out to include blankets, table linens, and some other stuff-- 4 HUGE bags in total. It took a mere hour to go through it all to grab the all-cotton items, and 3 of those bags went to the thrift shop the same night I culled them (the bags were in the house less than 24 hours). The culls are pretty, matched sets with a low poly count-- someone will LOVE them, I am sure. The 1 smallish bagful I kept are exactly the colors and fabrics I wanted, are in great condition, have been washed to get the years worth of fabric softener perfume and feel out of them, and have already been sent upstairs to their intended beds. The matching pillow cases that I probably didn't "need"-- can NOT believe I have really accumulated "enough" of THAT desperately-wanted category (all beds have 9-12 pillows)-- will replace a few Sallie cases that are not all-cotton, or are about to shred, etc., which will be torn up for rags. Cottonnnnnnn..... ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 30 Nov 08 - 06:30 PM This is what I tried desperately to post yesterday: Good for you, Kat! Now you have tomorrow to yourself, not the computer, if you want it. I've been pulling together things to list on eBay, some of it sent by a friend for test runs. And some listed just because it's in my way to get to other stuff I need to do. My kitchen/dining room is the big news--I've pushed a lot of things out of the room for our dinner last night and this morning when I brought a couple back in I was very selective. There is now a lot of room in the middle and it looks much better and larger. I tried to achieve this look for the big dinner, but it didn't quite work, we were still too crowded and a couple of us ate at smaller tables nearby. But now I think I could actually make the tables work the way I wanted. I've also moved the microwave and some other small appliances to get rid of some of the surfaces they were sitting on. SRS |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: katlaughing Date: 30 Nov 08 - 11:20 PM Thanks, gals! Today felt kind of strange, but good. I am ready to get to editing, but have to focus on gifts which have to do with some of the things I've been working on; can't say in case my sister comes in here and reads this!:-) Maggie, are you going to start a new thread tonight? |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 01 Dec 08 - 12:20 AM Oh good heavens--it's December. Congratulations Kat! I have sent back all the family that was here. Getting Ben and his classmate to school was fine. Getting back was rather exciting. I91 was very slippery, and very crowded! May have had something to do with the fact that we were all going about 35 MPH so were all on the highway for longer. I broke loose once, and was definitely thanking my heavenly Father-Mother when I was back going straight and sticking to the road again. I had cars on 3 sides (and a grassy median strip on the 4th) so it was a bit scary. Now off to bed! Cami |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: Stilly River Sage Date: 01 Dec 08 - 08:47 AM Here's the next one! |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: wysiwyg Date: 01 Dec 08 - 09:40 AM She decluttered her family?!?! :~) ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: BS: De-cluttering November; sustain momentum From: CamiSu Date: 01 Dec 08 - 11:04 AM She decluttered her family?!?! :~) I wouldn't call it that. Well...at least not where my kids are concerned. I could deal with them closer all the time. Mom...well I can manage 3 days of constantly together. Don't see enough of the brothers that were there, but they had things to do. BUt my youngest DID leave his room in pretty much the same condition he got it in! Amazing! CamiSu |
