Take me away from it all

More like... take it all away from me (as in, things I willingly want to part with...) 

Our recent move to a smaller abode has proven to be an exercise in making choices and efficiently managing our living space.  The whole family has learned to have some forethought before making acquisitions.  I encouraged the young people to take a look at The Story of Stuff video.  My goal over a year ago was to downsize our material possessions and I am happy to say that we have almost met that objective.  I was so happy that the treadmill and encyclopedias found new homes :o)

We have just a few more days to clear out and clean up the old place. It was a happy, clean and bright home for seven years.  It provided us with plenty of space indoors and out.  Now we need a home that is secure and affordable.  Soon the offspring will spread their wings and leave the nest.  Some may need a little nudging ;o) Hence the plan to move to an even smaller place in two years!

Thanks for dropping by to read my blog.  It has been a challenge to find time for posting my deep blonde thoughts during this uprooting and being "off the grid" for five days.  Stay tuned for updates related to Father's Day, finding the perfect man :o) and blog references to my recently released novel "The Year of the Rabbit".  Don't be afraid to follow the rabbit.  I won't lead you down a dark hole but into the lives of small town folk in the 1970s.  Just imagine!  No Internet, no computers and no cell phones.  Ah, simpler times...

T

Hoarding and Mini Storage Trends

While I was watching Law and Order on a U.S. station the other night, an advertisement came on for mini storage units to alleviate consumer citizens from their overcrowded drawers, closets and garages.  This confirmed the recent news that there is a trend in American citizens who rent these units to pack away their excess "stuff".  I am assUmIng the same applies to Canadians as well.

I can understand the need for short-term storage when you move to a smaller house or apartment -  or plan to travel for an extended period of time (you lucky buggers).   Another need would be to keep extra furniture and appliances that your offspring may need - once they move out on their own ;-^  Once they move out on their own...

With the exception of heirlooms and archives, I do not wish to get to the point of having to store "stuff" that neither my family nor I will need in the near future.  Thankfully, I didn't buy into the Beanie Baby craze or other collectibles such as "commemorative plates" or "ethnic dolls".  If anyone has actually benefited financially from these, I'd really like to hear about it! 

So, I continue my de-cluttering project by focussing on the bathroom cupboards and counters.

Related articles and links:

Time Magazine
Hoarding: How Collecting Stuff Can Destroy Your Life
By Kayla Webley Monday, Apr. 26, 2010
http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1984444,00.html

The Story of Stuff  (fun, informative!)
http://www.storyofstuff.com/

City of Ottawa Spring Give Away Weekend - Saturday June 5 and Sunday June 6 2010
http://www.ottawa.ca/residents/recycling_garbage/giveaway/
"One person’s trash is another person’s treasure. "  If you're nosy enough, it will be interesting to see what the neighbours are clearing out :-)


Go peacefully - and on a clear path :-)