To The Simplify 2015 Ladies

Anniecamp · ‎03-12-2010

Several of us started out 2015 by working on simplifying our lives, homes, etc. How did it go for you? I started out thinking I would work on my cosmetics, and wardrobe. I have to say I pretty much failed on those areas.

However, I did get rid of over 30 boxes of things from my home. Much of it was from deceased loved ones. I just haven't seemed to be able to master the cosmetics/clothing in my life. For example, I bought more, when I really didn't "need" them. After the Holidays, I will start again, and work on those areas. I've been "eyeing" some of my clothes/cosmetics, realizing there are some that I just don't like, and should get rid of them.

Catty2 · ‎09-06-2014

I seem to be ending the year this way. I am clearing out clutter, paperwork, etc. - trying to recycle as much as possible. Hope to continue this into the new year. Anxious to get my house in order and would like to eventually get new carpeting in the living room and dining room.

AnnMarie-1 · ‎03-09-2010

I was derailed in what my life used to be when hubby lost job in March & is now in another state & I am here not able to sell house, ugh!...you would think I would be all organized now, but all I did was empty as much as I could down in the basement & put things in plastic bins to show house...

I would say get as organized as you can just in case a life change comes your way unexpected

MadameQueen · ‎03-20-2015

@AnnMarie-1. That's good advice. I hope things turn around for you soon.

AnnMarie-1 · ‎03-09-2010

@MadameQueen, thank you, I hope so also!

I just figured out how you entered my name with the @ sign, very cool!

MadameQueen · ‎03-20-2015

@AnnMarie-1 wrote:
@MadameQueen, thank you, I hope so also!

@I just figured out how you entered my name with the @ sign, very cool!

@AnnMarie-1. I learned how on these forums it doesn't always work. Maybe I don't always type the name correctly.

RedTop · ‎09-01-2010

My decluttering efforts started 3 years ago, and continue to go very well. I started packing up my kitchen in May, for a remodel in July. I tossed many old and unused items that had been lost in my pantry, or pushed to the back of cabinets that are used the least.

After my cabinets were installed, I signed a contract to have a custom hutch made for my dining room. In order to make room for the hutch, two other pieces of furniture had to be emptied and removed from the house. Once again, this was a great decluttering opportunity, and I surprised myself with all I was able to toss without a second thought. Hutch was delivered this week, and is filled with the nice China and glassware I inherited from my maternal grandmother and aunt. I only have one box left to sort thru, before I can say I finally have control of my house again.

After Christmas, I will tackle my husband's closet, and sort my closet for the second time, before I make changes in the closet as far as storage options.

AngelPuppy1 · ‎03-13-2010

I applaude you very brave ladies!

I keep saying I want to do this, but never do!

I have always been the type of person that once I start a task, I hate to stop it before it its done. And working every day still, and not being in great health, (DH either) and always being exhausted, are my big excuses! I really dislike dragging all kinds of stuff out and then half way through, I conk out and then I just leave it -- and then it sits there and stares at me! I know --I've done it before. So, I just don't even start!

I really want to purge cosmetics and all kinds of grooming items as my cupboard that I use for this is over-flowing and I am getting to the point where I can't find anything!

I feel I am starting to get to a point in my life I don't want so many things.

Also, as far as clothes --- I am over-loaded. I don't even need or wear 3/4ths of what I have. But going through all of the stuff - I don't have the energy right now.

As for shoes --- oh, wow! I have tons of those. And since I am currently having a health issue and can't wear any of them, I am hesitant to make any decisions about getting rid of them. I am hoping this is a temporary thing.

Other than clothing, shoes and grooming items, I don't really have a ton of extra things such as household items, decorating items, etc.

My goal was to do this when I retire. But when this will happen is anyone's guess!!!

"A day without sunshine is like, you know, night." - Steve Martin

sarpy · ‎03-10-2010

We have been downsizing for 2 yrs. We are down to taking care of our funeral arrangements. Last week we paid all our funeral arrangements so the kids do not have to do anything except sell our car and house. We cleaned out our basement of all decor clutter. We feel much lighter if that makes any sense. We cleaned out our picture albums and gave our relatives any pics pertaining to their families. Took all our books and puzzles to our library.

Glad it is all done.

aprilskies · ‎03-09-2010

@sarpy wrote:
We have been downsizing for 2 yrs. We are down to taking care of our funeral arrangements. Last week we paid all our funeral arrangements so the kids do not have to do anything except sell our car and house. We cleaned out our basement of all decor clutter. We feel much lighter if that makes any sense. We cleaned out our picture albums and gave our relatives any pics pertaining to their families. Took all our books and puzzles to our library. Glad it is all done.

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Interesting, I started the picture decluttering a while ago. I went through all of my albums and pictures and got rid of duplicates, etc. I condensed them down. Then I wanted to scan all of the pictures but, quite frankly, that is going to require a lot of time and I dont need another project on my to do list. So, I started creating piles of pictures for all of the family members. This is taking some time but I will get it done in 2016. They are nice memories and I think they will appreciate them.

Over the weekend, I decluttered a bit more in all categories, wasnt even my intention, but once I got started, I just went with it. The only thing I am really having trouble with are the collectibles. I really dont want them, there isnt a market for them, so in 2016 I think I am going to pull the bandaid and just donate them. Still working on that one though. It's a tough one for me.

It mostly definitely feels lighter to get rid of all the stuff that just sits there and be free of it.