topic Re: ComPact 2014 -- November in Beauty

ComPact 2014 -- November

just bee — Sat, 01 Nov 2014 14:59:35 GMT

The ComPact is a commitment to simplify, pare down, streamline. It began as a way to gain some control over our collections of beauty products. Why were we amassing so much, yet not using what we were buying? Why were we always searching for the next new product? Why couldn't we just find what worked for us and stick with it?

The ComPact, however, is not restricted to beauty items. If you have a collection you want to address, do it here. Choose an area you want to work on, and track your progress on the ComPact thread. Members will offer tips and encouragement.

Choose one of our many mantras (“One by one until they’re done!” “We are SPAHHHRRRTAN!!!” “Not until you really have to.” “Buy less, choose well, make it last.” “Resist the propaganda.” "If it's high, I don't buy!" “When in doubt, do without!” “Start where you are, use what you have, do what you can.” “Shoplighters of the World Unite!”) or create a new one and share it. Target items each month to toss, donate, or use, and post your “chopping block” -- or “hit list.” Post temptations, post victories.

They say it takes 30 days for something to become a habit: Let's see if taking the ComPact one month at a time works for you.

Join us.

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

just bee — Sat, 01 Nov 2014 15:10:58 GMT

aprilskies said:

I cant believe Halloween is over and today is Nov. 1st. Where does the time go? To bad this is one thing we cant stock pile. Especially the weekends. Dont forget to turn your clocks back. At least we gain an hour but I dread when it starts to get dark at 4 or 4 30. I leave work and it is dark outside, ugh. Makes me feel like hibernating.

Hope everybody had a fun Halloween! I bought 168 full size candy bars and really expected a lot of kids because it was a Friday night and the weather was beautiful. But now I'm stuck with a ton of chocolate. Good thing I work in a hospital -- my colleagues will devour it.

So, here's to another month and the perfecting of our ComPacting skills! It sounds like some of you don't really need much fine tuning here. You ladies have mastered it!

Also, as aprilskies says...

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

Beauty$Junkie — Sat, 01 Nov 2014 15:13:44 GMT

JustBee, thanks for getting us started. Count me in. With all the Black Friday specials coming, I hope I remember I am a beauty hoarder. If I forget, Note to Self: look in the closet. Good luck and thanks to all of my compactor comrades.

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

just bee — Sat, 01 Nov 2014 15:32:54 GMT

On 11/1/2014 Beauty$Junkie said: JustBee, thanks for getting us started. Count me in. With all the Black Friday specials coming, I hope I remember I am a beauty hoarder. If I forget, Note to Self: look in the closet. Good luck and thanks to all of my compactor comrades.

We'll remind you!

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

kathie66 — Sat, 01 Nov 2014 15:54:00 GMT

Hi Friends,

I'm still plugging along! Recently bought some Philosophy with the new Xmas things out. Will gift some and keep some. I'm good with my purchases. I was selective and didn't get everything under the sun!

I was hoping to be completely done with my handsoap stash by the New Year. But that's not going to happen. I've finished up all BBW in my stash. Now its just Perlier and Philosophy handsoaps to get thru. But I will get thru it! I'm using up the handsoap stash at only the kitchen sink ( bathroom sink is where I'm using my shower gel stash) so that slowed it down a bit, and I was gifted some BBW handsoap. But have not bought any handsoap since joining the compact. (Yup, serious soap hoarder here, its a clean habit LOL) I'm very proud of myself!! Can't wait till they are all gone and I can just use the shower gel in all handsoap containers. It certainly is taking longer than I thought! But I'm doing it!!

Trying to resist all the holiday sets. Limiting myself to QVC's Tarte TSV, and Hourglass Ambient Blush Palette.

Happy November All!!

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

just bee — Sat, 01 Nov 2014 16:15:17 GMT

On 11/1/2014 kathie66 said:
Hi Friends,

I'm still plugging along! Recently bought some Philosophy with the new Xmas things out. Will gift some and keep some. I'm good with my purchases. I was selective and didn't get everything under the sun!

I was hoping to be completely done with my handsoap stash by the New Year. But that's not going to happen. I've finished up all BBW in my stash. Now its just Perlier and Philosophy handsoaps to get thru. But I will get thru it! I'm using up the handsoap stash at only the kitchen sink ( bathroom sink is where I'm using my shower gel stash) so that slowed it down a bit, and I was gifted some BBW handsoap. But have not bought any handsoap since joining the compact. (Yup, serious soap hoarder here, its a clean habit LOL) I'm very proud of myself!! Can't wait till they are all gone and I can just use the shower gel in all handsoap containers. It certainly is taking longer than I thought! But I'm doing it!!

Trying to resist all the holiday sets. Limiting myself to QVC's Tarte TSV, and Hourglass Ambient Blush Palette.

Happy November All!!

Using shower gels as hand soap at the bathroom and kitchen sinks has really helped me put a dent in the stash. I used to use dishwashing liquid to wash my hands in the kitchen and I think it was probably too harsh. I like having something seasonal at the sinks and I can use up scents I really don't want to be trapped in the shower with. It starts out slow, but before you know it you're making progress!

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

Eager2Learn — Sat, 01 Nov 2014 16:35:26 GMT

Hello Everyone!

Has anyone been following HomeStorageSolutions101?

Last month was great. The focus was on the garage, the attic, jewelry, accessories, shoes, makeup and cosmetics. I tossed some really old stuff. I've also set aside several pair of shoes (never worn) that were purchased years ago (when I was working), and a couple bottles of unused fragrance. They're old, but one has a beautiful bottle that someone might want. They will go to GoodWill when the box is full.

Most of November won't apply to me though, it's Halloween, kid's stuff and home inventory.

I will try again this month to have more going out than coming in. But realistically, I know when those good sales and free shipping come along, I will surely be tempted!

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

willdob3 — Sat, 01 Nov 2014 16:51:18 GMT

Happy November, ComPactors!

Thanks for starting the threat, Bee. and for the time change reminder!

I think it is going to be a very good month.

I'll be back later...lots to do today!

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

Oshare-girl — Sat, 01 Nov 2014 20:13:20 GMT

I have been steadily using up my cosmetics. It's the hardest when they are not showing pan, to keep myself motivated. I did poke a hole with a pin in my eyeshadow that had the deepest dip. I was very close to pan and after that it really kick-started the usage. Seeing that pan get bigger everyday is so fun! Ya gotta do what ya gotta do to stay motivated.

I am cured of hoarding shower gels & lotions. I have only one spare of shower gel because I buy it online and DS & DH don't tell me until their bottles are empty that they need soap. So I have to be prepared for them. I have no spare lotions! I also am done with all the BBW hand soaps. Now I buy a bottle of Dr. Bronner's and dilute it to make the foaming hand soaps.

I bought some nail polishes from Zoya earlier in the year when they were running a buy3 promotion. I got an orange for Halloween thinking that me & DD would do some cute nail art. Well, did we use it? Of course not! It's just another reminder that I should not buy just to take advantage of a sale. Fortunately I passed up all the other Zoya sales since then. I just take a look at my edited (but still excessive) polish collection to convince myself that I have more than enough. I've been using one polish for the whole month to try and actually finish a bottle. That bottle can do many pedicures, let me tell ya. My goal is to have one bottle per season.

I've been decluttering my DS's room like a madwoman. The school's fun fair is coming up and needs donations. I took a deep breath and opened up his closet. He really only has a chest of lego in there that is his. The rest are stuff that I stored in there that he either outgrew or was going to use. Of course it's been so long since we opened that closet that the hand-me-downs from his cousin are too small. I'm donating that to Goodwill. The train set has been donated to the school. His toys have been edited. He goes through phases and will collect a lot of the same type of toy (i.e. Transformers, Hot Wheels, Bakugan) but eventually moves on to the next thing (now it's Nerf guns). The grandparents are usually the ones that supply him with toys. So we went through his old collections and donated a garbage bag of that to the school fair. We both feel so much better.

Today it's DD's turn. Her room looks like a hurricane went through it. Pray for me!

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

aprilskies — Sun, 02 Nov 2014 01:38:22 GMT

My latest thought - create new habits one at a time or maybe two if they go hand in hand. Years ago, I started to make my bed as soon as I got up. I would never make it in the morning but always had to make it before I went to bed. I hate going to sleep in an unmade bed. It dawned on me that why not have it looking neat and nice all day long instead of just right before going to sleep. I mean really what is the point. This became such a habit that now I dont go past go unless my bed is made. As soon as I get up, I make it. Even before coffee. So since I havent created any new habits since and since it is Nov. 1st, my new habit will be to exercise. So tired of not being fit. I did start exercising 15-20 mins a day about 3 days ago but this month, my goal is 4-5 times a week. Ideally in the morning but for now I will take night as well. I would ultimately like to get to 30 to 45 mins a day.

Anyone game in starting a new habit in Nov? It could be anything you wanted to change but never seem to get around to it.

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

Coffeebean33 — Sun, 02 Nov 2014 18:37:14 GMT

Hello Ladies! I've been staving off temptations from the most recent Ulta and upcoming Sephora 20% off sales. I've been repeating the following mantra, "Saving 20% is still spending 80%". Good luck on your paths to simplify and streamline. I do believe that our things end up owning us. So why is it so difficult for me to resist the urge to purchase the new 4 piece IT cosmetics kabuki brush set? I pulled out all of my brushes and do have a brush that will perform the same job as these new better greater ones. I will stay strong and use what I have!

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

rehoda — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 05:37:58 GMT

On 11/1/2014 aprilskies said:My latest thought - create new habits one at a time or maybe two if they go hand in hand. Years ago, I started to make my bed as soon as I got up. I would never make it in the morning but always had to make it before I went to bed. I hate going to sleep in an unmade bed. It dawned on me that why not have it looking neat and nice all day long instead of just right before going to sleep. I mean really what is the point. This became such a habit that now I dont go past go unless my bed is made. As soon as I get up, I make it. Even before coffee. So since I havent created any new habits since and since it is Nov. 1st, my new habit will be to exercise. So tired of not being fit. I did start exercising 15-20 mins a day about 3 days ago but this month, my goal is 4-5 times a week. Ideally in the morning but for now I will take night as well. I would ultimately like to get to 30 to 45 mins a day.
Anyone game in starting a new habit in Nov? It could be anything you wanted to change but never seem to get around to it.

try walking, start 30 min a day - walk in one direction for 15 min then turn around and walk back. after you get comfortable with that increase the time to 45 min etc. you will be surprised at how far you go. I hate to suggest you buying something, but the fitbit is a good way to track the number of steps you take, it connects to your computer and will track your progress. the goal is 10,000 steps a day. if you live where you have nasty cold weather go to the mall and walk - no stopping for shopping. many malls open early for walkers, even though the stores are not open. you can do strength training 2 - 3 times a week too. dr oz showed an exercise that was good for warding off osteoporosis, use a kettle bell swinging from side to side, you should be able to find the how to on his web site. good luck with your new habit!!!

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

just bee — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 15:12:43 GMT

I can't say enough about walking. Better-half and I take the world's greatest dog out for a hike every day, but there are days I miss it because of my work schedule. There are days when I think I shouldn't go because I have to get something done for school, but I know I need to take that time to get out. It's not just the physical benefits. I need the cheap therapy. Getting out with nature -- whether it's the bosque or the Petroglyphs -- is a treat. I need the fresh air, I need to see the plants and the animals, I need to see other dogs, and I just need to let my mind relax. Instead of sitting at the computer and trying to put a paper together, I can go walking and create an outline in my head. I can sort out problems, come up with new ideas, and just get away from all the things I have to do.

It's why God created dogs. He knew we had to have a reason to get out and walk. And how convenient it is that our dogs remind us when it's time to get moving.

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

jackthebear — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 15:33:52 GMT

On 11/1/2014 Eager2Learn said:
Hello Everyone!

Has anyone been following HomeStorageSolutions101?

Last month was great. The focus was on the garage, the attic, jewelry, accessories, shoes, makeup and cosmetics. I tossed some really old stuff. I've also set aside several pair of shoes (never worn) that were purchased years ago (when I was working), and a couple bottles of unused fragrance. They're old, but one has a beautiful bottle that someone might want. They will go to GoodWill when the box is full.

Most of November won't apply to me though, it's Halloween, kid's stuff and home inventory.

I will try again this month to have more going out than coming in. But realistically, I know when those good sales and free shipping come along, I will surely be tempted!

what a good site, most of it I have done, but have a feeling I could do more,

but I don't like the idea of having to sign up to access the calendar, I don't like getting more and more email. Signed up anyway, I can always unsub. later

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

jackthebear — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 15:35:44 GMT

On 11/2/2014 rehoda said:
On 11/1/2014 aprilskies said:My latest thought - create new habits one at a time or maybe two if they go hand in hand. Years ago, I started to make my bed as soon as I got up. I would never make it in the morning but always had to make it before I went to bed. I hate going to sleep in an unmade bed. It dawned on me that why not have it looking neat and nice all day long instead of just right before going to sleep. I mean really what is the point. This became such a habit that now I dont go past go unless my bed is made. As soon as I get up, I make it. Even before coffee. So since I havent created any new habits since and since it is Nov. 1st, my new habit will be to exercise. So tired of not being fit. I did start exercising 15-20 mins a day about 3 days ago but this month, my goal is 4-5 times a week. Ideally in the morning but for now I will take night as well. I would ultimately like to get to 30 to 45 mins a day.
Anyone game in starting a new habit in Nov? It could be anything you wanted to change but never seem to get around to it.

try walking, start 30 min a day - walk in one direction for 15 min then turn around and walk back. after you get comfortable with that increase the time to 45 min etc. you will be surprised at how far you go. I hate to suggest you buying something, but the fitbit is a good way to track the number of steps you take, it connects to your computer and will track your progress. the goal is 10,000 steps a day. if you live where you have nasty cold weather go to the mall and walk - no stopping for shopping. many malls open early for walkers, even though the stores are not open. you can do strength training 2 - 3 times a week too. dr oz showed an exercise that was good for warding off osteoporosis, use a kettle bell swinging from side to side, you should be able to find the how to on his web site. good luck with your new habit!!!

Fibit really makies it easy to build up your walking distances. I took a 4 mile walk the other day before I got the fitbit I would have been bored to tears but now it was OK will walk to the other town and back easy, worth the money,

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

aprilskies — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 15:36:18 GMT

On 11/2/2014 rehoda said:
On 11/1/2014 aprilskies said:My latest thought - create new habits one at a time or maybe two if they go hand in hand. Years ago, I started to make my bed as soon as I got up. I would never make it in the morning but always had to make it before I went to bed. I hate going to sleep in an unmade bed. It dawned on me that why not have it looking neat and nice all day long instead of just right before going to sleep. I mean really what is the point. This became such a habit that now I dont go past go unless my bed is made. As soon as I get up, I make it. Even before coffee. So since I havent created any new habits since and since it is Nov. 1st, my new habit will be to exercise. So tired of not being fit. I did start exercising 15-20 mins a day about 3 days ago but this month, my goal is 4-5 times a week. Ideally in the morning but for now I will take night as well. I would ultimately like to get to 30 to 45 mins a day.
Anyone game in starting a new habit in Nov? It could be anything you wanted to change but never seem to get around to it.

try walking, start 30 min a day - walk in one direction for 15 min then turn around and walk back. after you get comfortable with that increase the time to 45 min etc. you will be surprised at how far you go. I hate to suggest you buying something, but the fitbit is a good way to track the number of steps you take, it connects to your computer and will track your progress. the goal is 10,000 steps a day. if you live where you have nasty cold weather go to the mall and walk - no stopping for shopping. many malls open early for walkers, even though the stores are not open. you can do strength training 2 - 3 times a week too. dr oz showed an exercise that was good for warding off osteoporosis, use a kettle bell swinging from side to side, you should be able to find the how to on his web site. good luck with your new habit!!!

Rehoda, you gave me an idea. I liking walking and have gone for a few since I started exercising but in the evening. I ideally would like to exercise in the morning and quite honestly didnt even dawn on me to go for a walk in the morning. I may just do that. I love the cold- not freezing of course - but love it and I will try bundling up and going for one in the morning. It is dark now so I will see how I feel. But this is a plan. Right now, I am using my mini stepper -which I almost donated several times - and I am enjoying it. I stick it in front of the tv and get in 15 or so mins. But I would like to kick things up to 45 mins to an hour, whatever that may be.

The kettle bell, interesting, I was just reading somewhere of a routine that calls for 100 kettle bell swings a day. Of course, no way would I be able to do that many but that might not be a bad goal. I am going to try that with a 3 lb weight I have.

For the record, I have no problem buying things. The only reason I have not bought a fitbit is it is just another thing to keep track of and I know I wont keep up with it. But I can see why it would be great to have one.

Jackthebear, yes I agree, I think that reason alone it is worth the money. That is my problem with walking I get so bored. I have to force myself to get through a mile. hmmm....

Just Bee, your walk/hike sounds fantastic. I wish I had that backdrop.

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

just bee — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 15:50:06 GMT

On 11/3/2014 aprilskies said:
Just Bee, your walk/hike sounds fantastic. I wish I had that backdrop.

Well, New Mexico has to have something going for it...

But we're fortunate that the bosque is so accessible. And this is a great time of year because the migratory birds stop here on their way south.

Da cranes! Da cranes!

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

aprilskies — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 16:13:58 GMT

On 11/3/2014 just bee said:
On 11/3/2014 aprilskies said:
Just Bee, your walk/hike sounds fantastic. I wish I had that backdrop.

Well, New Mexico has to have something going for it...

But we're fortunate that the bosque is so accessible. And this is a great time of year because the migratory birds stop here on their way south.

Da cranes! Da cranes!

Love it. Just beautiful. I can see why you wouldnt want to move.

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

just bee — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 17:19:54 GMT

On 11/3/2014 aprilskies said:
On 11/3/2014 just bee said:
On 11/3/2014 aprilskies said:
Just Bee, your walk/hike sounds fantastic. I wish I had that backdrop.

Well, New Mexico has to have something going for it...

But we're fortunate that the bosque is so accessible. And this is a great time of year because the migratory birds stop here on their way south.

Da cranes! Da cranes!

Love it. Just beautiful. I can see why you wouldnt want to move.

Oh, no -- I'd move! I just don't want to pack!

Re: ComPact 2014 -- November

jackthebear — Tue, 04 Nov 2014 18:06:40 GMT

Yesterday I started reading that Home Solutions website and got inspired (again). Tossed a bunch of stuff in my bathroom. Interesting that I have 3 bottles of conditioner in stock but no shampoo, so I go through much more shampoo.

Next I went through one of my pantries, I am going to put a lot of stuff I don't use into the basement kitchen instead of cluttering up. Found 2 matzoh trays for passover, who needs 2?

We stopped in at a tag sale in the neighborhood recently where the owners had never tossed anything...so if that is not an impetus to go through your house, I don't know what is!!! 80% was junk,

My husband keeps saying that he will get tossed out, I just got him to chuck out 20 year old maps.