One Year Report Card

One year ago I did a major declutter and I would like to say that my house is still pristine and clutter free. Not so. We live in our house so it's always in a state of "lived-in" disarray.

Here's my report card:

• Laundry area: B+ Still in good shape with just a little clutter coming and going from the tops of the washer and dryer.
• Bathrooms: B Also in pretty good shape but the main cabinet is collecting things that are coming in while others are not going out.
• Pantry: C This area is tough as it has the most daily activity, from canned/dry goods to plastic containers, it's hard to keep this in good shape. I would say this is the space that needs the most constant attention.
• Guest Room: A This has been the easiest to keep up because we don't use it as often. Now that my office is in this room, we will see how we fare.

Overall, not too bad. I really like living with less. I'm committed to continuing to keep the stuff to a minimum. One really cool upside is I find I'm saving money. As I mindlessly pick something up to purchase, I flash on getting home, where it will go, and do I really need it. Literally, nine times out of ten, the answer is, "No."

Simple Ways To Start Decluttering

Let's get real, tackling your whole house is WAY too overwhelming so start in just one place. For me, it's the kitchen table. The table is the catch-all for everything Partak including school work, mail, glove business, consulting work notes, and anything else that comes in from outside.

When I start to feel my clutter closing in on me, I start by putting away things on the table, if they don't have a home, I make the choice to keep it or toss it. Next any paper that I can throw away (or recycle as is appropriate) gets tossed. Everything else gets put in one pile and I go through it piece by piece. Right then, I put it where it goes (file, bills to-pay, sign for school or to mail, etc.), and in just minutes I'm done! I wipe the table off, push the chairs in and I already feel like I am more in control and ready to tackle the next space! You can do it, too...just start!

Give Away Ten A Day - Day Four

Today was with permission of my loving husband to whom this collection belonged.

Based on days that feel like life is giving you lemons, my advice was to have a shot of tequila. Would you say we've had a bad day or two? Laughing!

Not really, Dave and I both really enjoy good tequila. In an effort to expand our horizons, we've tried many different kinds. We even had a tequila bar at our wedding!

Today, I part with a single collection of 29 bottles, and will call this ten for today!