Feng Shui and Money

[Virgil Showlion]

boos_mom
Message #1075 - 02/03/10 08:01 AM



My sister let a relative 'borrow' her maternity clothes and did inform her that she expected them back (for me).  She didn't get it back.  Instead, the person ended up giving away my sister's clothes.  When I was pg, that relative gave me some clothes but none of it was the stuff my sister loaned her.  My feeling is I would not feel comfortable loaning out things that I really wanted back and would be upset if they didn't come back (kind of like loaning money).  So, most of the stuff I gave was stuff I didn't expect back.  I did give stuff back that people gave me, but most folks said to keep it or pass it on.  Baby clothes are tiny, so unless you have an awesome memory, it does get hard to keep track of who gave what (or you mark the tags).  Or maybe they figure you guys are in a great place financially, so they figure you don't need (or maybe even want) hand-me-downs.  I wouldn't worry about any vibe you may be giving off.  I think it's a sign of the economic hard times that folks are trying to use what they have to save money. 

I do notice that the thrift stores aren't very cheap for children's clothes anymore.  If you can find stuff on clearance at the stores, it's often the same price or cheaper than what thrift stores are selling it for, and it'd be brand new.  But the selection may be more varied at the thrift store vs. going to many different stores.  Time is a precious commodity for the mother of a baby.  Get some of those onesie extenders to get some extra usage out of the seasonal clothes rather than buying bigger sizes at the tail end of a season.  Not exactly pretty, but mostly for at home use, anyway.   

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dianartemis
Message #1076 - 02/03/10 04:23 PM

I did it!  I got to work on my desk last night.  I got rid of all the junk, now I just need to file.  I'm going to do that on the weekend.

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2007debtheaven
Message #1077 - 02/03/10 11:13 PM

Abundance
My friends and I had what we called a "pregnancy club" and we loaned each other a lot of things ... but NOT infant clothes. Come to think of it, we mainly loaned each other pregnancy clothes plus the "occasional" baby item like an extra stroller or high chair or portable crib or car seat. We had a couple of huge bags of maternity wear we passed around, we all added a few items to the bags then continued passing them around for about six years!

I think it is normal that your friends are not offering to lend you infant clothes. They probably don't yet know if they are done having their own.

As their kids get a bit older, toddler age, I'm sure that will change. But there is something about those "first outfits" ...

I am sure it's not because of anything you are doing or not doing! If their babies are recent, they probably think they will still need those things. And frankly, it takes some time to have distance from one's baby items and be able to give them away. If the babies are less recent, remember that not everybody is as good at decluttering as we are, LOL. And I still have a couple of bags or boxes in the basement of things that were just too cute and I couldn't bear to part with, like newborn beaded mocassins, or an infant Yves Saint Laurent bathing suit that DD wore when she was six months old (she's 17!). So I'm sure there's NOTHING personal!

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2007debtheaven
Message #1078 - 02/03/10 11:16 PM

Dianartemis

Your desk sounds like my "carp.box", my perpetual basket of papers. It never ends! Good for you for making progress!

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dianartemis
Message #1079 - 02/03/10 11:27 PM

2007DH, my desk at work is the same.  Luckily my supervisors desk is even worse .

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very sad want to be happy
Message #1080 - 02/13/10 06:16 PM

i need some help.it was hard for me to get rid of things....where should i start?

[Virgil Showlion]

Murphy Martin
Message #1081 - 02/15/10 11:43 AM

Generally the romanization is "feng shui," not "fung shui."

Or if you read Chinese (as educated folks do), ??.

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dianartemis
Message #1082 - 02/15/10 06:17 PM



Very sad,

Just take 15 minutes and work on a shelf or a corner or closet.  Set your timer and get started.  My rule is if I hold on to it and dither, it needs to go.  If it's broken and has been broken for more than a month, it needs to go.  You can also have a friend or family member help you.  My sis and I tend to be ruthless w/ each other when we help each other declutter.  Sometimes that second opinion helps.

If you're scared to get rid of, put it in a box in your car or garage.  After one month, if you don't miss it, take that box to goodwill.

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abundanceandprosperity
Message #1083 - 03/12/10 04:08 PM

Spent two hours yesterday re-decluttering my main floor.  I had realized I was not spending any time in my living room and decided the energy in there was too dead. I moved things around, got rid of things in the chest and armoire I don't love, cleaned and brought in some new plants.  I lit candles and did my yoga for the day in that room.  Now I love it in there and am happy to spend time there again.  Any progress or stories from anyone else?

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Marti loves her lil monkey
Message #1084 - 03/12/10 06:13 PM

I get to start from scratch. We close on our new house at the end of next month. So for now it's packing and purging here. DS is growing so quickly that his stuff, especially his clothes, is multiplying at an alarming rate. But the good news is that we now have a basement and a walk up attic. Though I'm not sure how long it's going to remain an attic since DH wants to finish it off in a few years. So no more storing my Christmas tree in my closet with my clothes. You can feel the stilted energy though in the house. The first thing we have to do is get rid of the tree in the front yard. It's blocking all the windows in the front and the door.

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cheapcat
Message #1085 - 03/13/10 02:59 PM



Hey, has anyone seen Keriamon anywhere? I miss her posts & hope she is well.

If you're scared to get rid of, put it in a box in your car or garage.  After one month, if you don't miss it, take that box to goodwill.

I wish I could do that! We have a small pile that has been in the front of the garage since fall. We cleared it out of the basement to have room to fix some leaks & paint. Some of it is sports equipment that DH uses spring through fall, but there are boxes of his childhood toys & comics. He doesn't want to go though it, so I was thinking of getting some big plastic totes, sorting stuff by type & labeling them. He might be more likely to go through it when it's warm out...

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LadySimon
Message #1086 - 03/15/10 03:32 AM

I need to go through my stuff but I'm finding it so hard to get motivated!  Doesn't help that I live on a second floor and carting stuff back and forth is a royal pain.  Thinking of putting a box in my car and taking stuff that I don't want anymore and dropping it in as I go.  Then, when it's full, I can just go donate it.  This way I don't have to haul it downstairs and almost go rolling down with it!  Does that sound too lazy?  :S

[Virgil Showlion]

stormynight
Message #1087 - 03/20/10 09:44 PM

 LADY
I think that is a good  idea. I live in a 2 story home and have an unattached garage. Unless I am in the mood doing the 'carting off' is a pita especially in snowy weather. I keep a bag or two in the first floor closet and when it is full take it to the car on my next trip out. I drop it off when it is convenient.
Sometimes I get the bug and clean, purge, pack and deliver on the same day. I have been doing it for a few years so there is very little to do anymore. Mostly unworn clothing. The less you own the easier it is to keep clean. I have found I just do not want much anymore. I have more money in the bank, a clean house and more time for fun stuff instead of cleaning.

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LadySimon
Message #1088 - 03/22/10 03:17 AM

Thanks Stormy, glad to hear I'm not the only one that thinks hauling stuff is a pita!    Really need to get on the ball cuz hoping to move closer to work soon and the less stuff I have to pack the better.  How does one person collect so much junk?  I'm thinking of sending some clothes to a consignment shop but I've never done it before.  I would think there would be a market for plus size clothes, isn't there?  Anyone have any experience doing this before?

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stormynight
Message #1089 - 03/22/10 08:46 PM

I tried it last year when going through the closets. They were picky. They looked at everything and would decide then and there what they would try to sell. They liked the brands (J Jill, Eddie Bauer, LL Bean). I had to check back once a month and made a total of $30. What they don't sell goes to donation they did not give it back. I itemize on my taxes so I think me donating is a lot easier and I take the charitable contribution every year. It was just not worth my time for so little.
I hope you have better luck.

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LadySimon
Message #1090 - 03/22/10 10:43 PM

Well, I live in a small town.  Hoping the demand will be there since we don't have too many shopping options w/o driving into nashville.  Don't really have brand labels but most everything is Lane Bryant or Avenue.  For plus sizes that IS brand!    Fingers crossed!  Going to make sure everything is clean and febreze it just to be sure before I take it down there.

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boos_mom
Message #1091 - 06/01/10 09:50 PM

I gave 1 big bag of kid's clothes to a relative, 1 big box and a bag for donation, and I have two bags of maternity clothes ready to be handed over to a friend.  Plus, once she finds out the gender, I will have a few boxes/bags of baby clothes to give her.  Then I'll have some closet space the little one's room.   

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Marti loves her lil monkey
Message #1092 - 06/02/10 01:29 AM

With the tree down in the front yard the entire house seems so much larger. It's a hundred times brighter in here. But the best part is that everything has a place now. I no longer have Christmas decorations in my bedroom closet. DS's room is no longer a storage room( and he sleeps in there so we have our room back), and I have my own space for my crafts. Though I'm not doing very many because I'm too busy taking care of munchkin and landscaping. My neighbor jokes that I'm a farmer at heart.

But while unpacking I'm tossing stuff that we don't use anymore or doesn't fit( fitting back into my pre-kid pants is a pipe dream) into a box for the city mission. The lady left some stuff behind that's going as well.

[Virgil Showlion]

boos_mom
Message #1093 - 06/21/10 08:09 PM



This weekend, I delivered the pack-n-play, two bags of baby clothes/misc. baby items, and two big bags of maternity clothes to my friend.  Yay! 

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Wisconsin Beth
Message #1094 - 08/18/10 05:23 PM

bump

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boos_mom
Message #1095 - 08/24/10 07:30 PM



Thanks for the bump Beth!  I really need to get serious again about decluttering.

I gave away the exersaucer and decluttered a bit more in the family room.  Even the little ones noticed more space!

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Wisconsin Beth
Message #1096 - 08/25/10 06:40 PM

Actually, I bumped for WindyCityPaul on the YM board.    He had a thread about this and since I was bored, I went hunting. 

I still need to read the book but I'm starting to declutter.  I found out last week that one of my cousins is pregnant so I'm hoping to unload a bunch of baby stuff on her in the next few months. 

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boos_mom
Message #1097 - 08/26/10 08:18 PM



I read the book, but I've forgotten most of it by now.    I'd been meaning to go look for this thread, so you saved me the trouble.

Baby stuff takes up a lot of space!  Good luck on your decluttering efforts.  Our refrigerator stopped working and would cost about $500+ to fix due to the expensive part, so we just opted to buy a new one.  It better last longer than this one did.  I had to toss a whole fridge/freezer full of stuff and clear out a wide pathway for the new refrigerator.  Dang, I'm tired!  But I do like having less clutter in the dining room.  Now I have to keep it that way.   

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dianartemis
Message #1098 - 08/26/10 09:42 PM

I'm repainting my apt room by room.  So far, in the area I've painted, it's been easier to keep clean.  I think it's because I don't have the dirty/scuff marks making a visual mess.  Does that make any sense?

[Virgil Showlion]

boos_mom
Message #1100 - 10/19/10 06:58 PM

I cleared off a chunk of counter space in the kitchen and a bit of table space on the dining room table last night.    But, I have a ton of paperwork that always piles up (on the counter and table) and still need to go through that!    I seriously need 4 trays - Kids (stuff sent from the schools), Medical (receipts, statements for the FSA), Bills/Statements, Receipts (general purchases).  That'll be my next project.

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2007debtheaven
Message #1101 - 10/19/10 09:58 PM

Dianartemis
I think it's the scuff marks, but also the fact that you put time / money / effort into repainting those places, so you care more.

I wish Keriamon would come back. I hope she's OK.

It's embarrassing, I still have the same two problem projects I had when this thread was active!!! The basement, and the kids' old CDs - audio cassettes - video cassettes. The rest of the house is still good.

Actually the basement isn't that bad these days. But, DS3 and I went through his closet in August, and he has some really nice clothes his Gdmother gave him that he has outgrown. He is careful and the clothes are in excellent shape. He wants to sell them at the community yard sale in June. I didn't feel like I could tell him "no I just want it all out of the house" because he's only 12 and he doesn't have many opportunities to earn money. So I told him if he helped me rearrange a few things in the basement to make room for the bags, I would keep the stuff till June, and he did.

I just did a RADICAL declutter of my closet last month, since I'm working again. And DD did her closet too. So since I was already saving DS3's things, I decided I might as well save DD's and mine. So there are about five Ikea bags in the basement now waiting for that June sale. I'm planning on doing another basement purge this winter (I do one every year) and putting aside more stuff for the yard sale. If it doesn't sell, it will go to a charity the next day, I will NOT bring it back home. There are no "big ticket" items, just old clothes, and probably a few kids' toys and games. DH says he will go through his clothes and basement stuff too but I'm not holding my breath.

I have another, small project for next week (school holidays here). I am a teacher now, and we have a small set of three shelves near the computer. I have one shelf for teaching, the other shelves are photo albums and old computer games. I need more room for my teaching materials so I need to get rid of some of that stuff (not the photo albums!) or move them to the basement.

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dianartemis
Message #1102 - 10/19/10 10:04 PM

I wish Keriamon would come back.

Me too.

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1103 - 10/20/10 08:45 PM

I need this thread! I actually read the whole thread before I had DD in March and you guys really helped me de-clutter my entire house. I haven't done much de-cluttering since I've had her and have been looking around my house and have realized how cluttered it is again. I need to go through my closets and junk drawers especially. I've been really bad about just putting stuff in there and saying I'll get to it later just to make my house "appear" organized. Would be great if this thread got jump-started again!

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dianartemis
Message #1104 - 10/20/10 10:23 PM

Maybe we could start a decluttering & money thread or something.

[Virgil Showlion]

boos_mom
Message #1105 - 10/20/10 10:58 PM



I would vote to just keep this one going, as a legacy for keriamon.    Hopefully, she is doing well and just very, very busy. 

I do need this thread to help keep me going.  So easy to get sidetracked or lazy about decluttering.

I did manage to get two of my "new" trays started last night.  Organized the mess of medical papers and receipts, sorted them by dates, and cleared off a nice area to put the trays in a hutch (not on the table or counter!). 

I have a couple of bags that have some barely used or new "brand" clothing that I would like to take to a children's consignment/specialty shop but haven't had the time to do it.  Maybe I can get a relative who does CL a lot to sell it for me, for a share of the sale.... 

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1106 - 10/21/10 12:39 PM



Last night I managed to Freecycle a crib bumper that my Mom gave to me that I never used because the bedding set I bought came with one. Also a bed rail that my sister-in-law gave to me that I think is just ugly and don't really want to use it.  Also gave away a copy of What to Expect the First Year because I received two copies. All items were taking up room in my closet, so now I have more room in there! My walk-in closet was becoming more of a storage area, it was not good...

 

This weekend I think I'll go through my clothes and see what I can give away. One closet/junk drawer at a time maybe. I think I can handle that.

 

Hopefully one day Keriamon will chime back in and let us know how she is doing. She is the reason this great thread got started!

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dianartemis
Message #1107 - 10/21/10 04:39 PM



I need to get back to basics.  I need to do a house cleaning.  I haven't slept well the last 2 weeks and my place reflects my state of mind, scattered and disordered.

Friday - clean the L rooms (livingroom & laundry room)

Sat - clean the B rooms (bedrooms & bathroom), spot clean livingroom carpet

Sun - do weekly grocery shopping, make weekly meals, & clean Kitchen

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boos_mom
Message #1108 - 10/21/10 07:18 PM



I got the other two trays set up and started going through a pile of paper on the table.  I got a little more space on the table cleared last night.  I'll work on another pile tonight.  This weekend, I'm not sure what I want to work on.  I have to shoot for something that'll be a big payoff for me visually, either the big family room "no man's land" corner or continue in the dining room.

ETA: Oh, and I found $35 that had been hiding amongst my medical receipts the other night.  The exact amount I needed for the cash portion of a couple of birthday gifts for this weekend!

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1109 - 10/21/10 08:53 PM

 I found $35 that had been hiding amongst my medical receipts the other night

That's awesome!

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stormynight
Message #1110 - 10/23/10 01:46 PM

I have a table that a friend made me. It is a white table with pieces of colored glass in a design on top with grout in between. I have never liked it. Too bright and kinda gaudy for me. Might look nice in a large garden. We don't see each other much anymore. She hasn't been to my house in years.
I want to get rid of it. It is in the basement and always has been. I carried it up stairs once when I knew she was visiting.
I have some angst/guilt about just giving it away. What would you all do?
Yesterday I filed, recycled and burned paperwork. Felt so good to get rid of stuff and file the others that were cluttering up my kitchen.
Do I need the receipt for my furniture that is 7 years old? The store has closed down. It's Smith Brothers so I think there is some warranty but I have never read it.
What do people do with the decorative glass containers that candles come in? Not just the plain clear glass but like holiday candles. I don't want them but hate to put them in the trash. Would goodwill want them?
I am no longer on freecycle, couldn't take all the mail.

[Virgil Showlion]

stormynight
Message #1111 - 10/23/10 01:54 PM

I like the idea of a decluttering and money thread. I think when you look around and see how much stuff you have and how it does not make you happy/enrich you life, you have the epiphany that less is more.
I am pretty much a minimalist now and don't shop for recreation. I try to give things a 24 hour test before buying or with big ticket items a 30 day test.
I have saved a lot of money by not buying.
I have not got it perfected yet. I have my temptations for spending and emotional/irrational reasons for hanging on to some stuff so I love to hear what others are doing. I also would like permission some time to get rid of something ( even from strangers). Anybody else feel the same?

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2007debtheaven
Message #1112 - 10/23/10 09:05 PM

BoosMom
Yay on the 35 dollars! Looks like the universe is telling you to keep decluttering LOL.

GardenerGirl
I agree with doing it one shelf / drawer at a time. I am usually the "blitz it" type but I could not find enough time to do it in one go when I decided to go through all my clothes last month. I did one or two shelves or drawers at a time but not every day. It still got done in less than a week and I'm really pleased with the results!

Stormynight
That's a hard call since your friend made the table for you. Is it useful in the basement even if you don't love it, or are you just "storing" it? (We have one basement room we "use", and one for storage, that's why I ask.) If not, do you have anybody in your life who loves that table who you can give it to? Maybe a friend who just bought a place? Or a young person who is just starting out?

I firmly believe we should not keep things we don't like but I still have a few horrible items my mom gave me out of sentimentality (thankfully no furniture lol). If it wasn't somebody I was really close to I would try to find it a good home with somebody who would appreciate it.

We have three items of furniture from DH's childhood that he is attached to and everybody else hates. One dresser is in the basement (that room used to be a playroom when the kids were small but now it is DS1's bedroom, so it's DS1's dresser), another dresser is in the guest room, the Ottoman is in DS3's bedroom. DS3 wanted it out because it's ugly but he said he liked the storage so he asked for a new one he liked better. I refused to chuck it and get him a new one. So we compromised: I bought a cheap black tablecloth to cover it and now DS3 is very happy with it.

Which makes me think, if you need a low table elsewhere, could you buy a throw for it?

Dianartemis
How is the cleaning going? It's always a PITA but you feel so good afterwards when everything is sparkling and in its place!

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stormynight
Message #1113 - 10/23/10 09:25 PM

debt
 The basement is yucky. I only store a few things down there including the kitty litter box. It is a utility basement only. The table is just sitting down there because I don't like it enough to use it anywhere else. It really looks like it should be in an outdoor garden (but not mine).
It bugs me being down there because I don't like storing useless things and our friendship has dwindled in the past few years.
I am not in a situation of knowing young adults that need anything to start out so my only recourse is to give to Goodwill. That seems harsh since it was a gift but...keeping a unwanted unused gift in the basement seems silly. If it was an ugly sweater it would have been gone years ago. I think my hang up is that 1) she made it and 2) it's a table.
I think I have just talked myself into making a trip to Goodwill tomorrow. Someone may appreciate it.

Here is another one:  I used to go to a lot of Chris Isaak concerts. I would buy a t shirt at each one and one of them he drew a picture and signed. I have never worn them. I don't wear unisex t shirts because they don't fit. They are in a drawer in the guest bedroom taking up a small space. I am not interested in a t shirt quilt and there is only 3 or 4 of them.  What should I do with those?
I have no problem doing a closet purge until I run into something silly like that. The cost was $20 a shirt so no big deal. I don't want them but...

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2007debtheaven
Message #1114 - 10/23/10 09:25 PM

Stormy
To answer your other question, frankly, we are not big shoppers. We are pretty minimalist except for books. We have A LOT of books. Like with the CDs and DVDs, I need to go through the ones I didn't love and give them away. Every year I intend to do that for a friend's English-speaking church Christmas fête and somehow it never happens. However DH won't part with any of his. DH is a pack-rat, I am not, so I keep decluttering to make more room for his stuff LOL. But only in the basement, upstairs is a "no pack-rat zone".

The night I posted about needing to make more room for my teaching materials / books I managed to quickly clear up another half a bookshelf, so now I have 1.5 shelves out of the three there. Ideally I will do more but again DH wants to keep the stuff and that means I have to find room in the basement for it. But it's still much more comfortable for me even having an extra half a shelf!

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2007debtheaven
Message #1115 - 10/23/10 09:27 PM

Stormy, here it is: my permission to give that table to Goodwill LOL. In an ideal world it would have been great if you could have given it to somebody you knew who loved it, but you still deserve to have it out of your house. You have no reason to house things you don't like.

How about keeping ONE t-shirt as a souvenir? I don't have a lot of clothes but I do have a few souvenir t-shirts under my regular pile of t-shirts.

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2007debtheaven
Message #1116 - 10/23/10 09:34 PM

Also (please this is NOT at all meant as a criticism, I'm just trying to help because I love this topic and it's something I do a lot of) why is your basement "yucky"?

There's absolutely nothing wrong with using a basement solely for storage, but it still doesn't need to be "yucky". You can put cheap tile on the floor, or just paint the floor or leave it as it is, or put cheap laminate or carpet or vinyl if you are sure there are no humidity issues, give the walls one coat of white paint, and get really cheap shelving at Ikea or somewhere like it and have a really nice basement at relatively little cost.

[Virgil Showlion]

stormynight
Message #1117 - 10/23/10 09:37 PM

We posted at the same time.
I used to have a fair amount of books. I had the epiphany a few years ago about not needing stuff. I rarely read a book twice especially fiction and my medical books are over 10 years old. My library has an ongoing donation bin for there quarterly book sale fundraiser. I gave all but 9 books away.
I don't buy books anymore. We have 2 rather nice libraries in town. I think of them as my own personal storage facility. I read books that I would have never read before because they are free and I can return them. I also check out a lot of non fiction books on cooking, gardening, decluttering, spirituality, skin care, financial, mountain climbing, animals etc. that I would not have bought. One was a book of awesome swimming pools. Fun to look at but not to keep.
I have been reading a few pages of this thread at a time and it sounds like you have done a lot of decluttering. Good job!

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stormynight
Message #1118 - 10/23/10 09:45 PM

My basement is like a MI basement except I have a floor. The walls have some water damage even mold I think. There is no ceiling only wood beams with all the wires and pipes and cobwebs. I am phobic about spiders. The cement floor has peeling gray paint.  The furnace is new as is the hot water heater. I did have the old oil furnace removed and a big non function sink removed. I have some shelves that I keep a few storage items (Christmas dec and extra vases) on in plastic containers. Otherwise it is empty.
It will never be a useable room because I don't need the room (one person two story house) but I would like it to be clean, dry and not scary. Very overwhelming for this single 50 women to tackle.

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2007debtheaven
Message #1119 - 10/23/10 09:45 PM

Stormy I don't know if you know this but I'm in France, and the American library is pretty far from where I live. So we do buy books, but we share them amongst our English-speaking friends.

Yes I have done a lot of decluttering over the years LOL. Six people in 2000 square feet, without a garage (we WERE the garage), I have no choice LOL. But I really don't function well with "clutter", so it doesn't bother me, I find it therapeutic, and I love seeing the results. And the rooms here are much smaller (especially the bedrooms) so I always help/helped my kids to do it too.

It's only DH I haven't managed to get through to LOL.

The irony is that I now have a bunch of Ikea bags filled with old clothing because I don't have the heart to tell DS3 I just want the old stuff out of here, so I am storing stuff till the June community yard sale. DH says it's a great idea and he'll go through his things too but like I said I'm not holding my breath.

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2007debtheaven
Message #1120 - 10/23/10 09:51 PM

If you can you should at least see what is causing the water damage, just to make sure it is not affecting the other parts of the house. It sounds like you really don't need the space, so I wouldn't fret it.

If you wanted to spend the time and / or money, maybe you could just repaint the walls so they would be lighter / brighter and the basement would feel / smell cleaner? You can also find paint that holds up better to humidity.

ETA: I am 50 too.

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stormynight
Message #1121 - 10/23/10 09:53 PM

debt
Thanks for the permission to donate. lol  I too believe  we should not keep things we do not want. It is just easier to make that decision for someone else.
I guess I could start with the people who do the 'wet basement' repairs. Can't do carpet because of the cats (pee temptations) but scraping and repainting the floors is a good idea.
Maybe I will just keep the t shirt he signed and donate the others.
This is one of my favorite subjects too.
My parents are mid to upper 80's and are packrats and antiques dealers. I know what is in store for me at a latter date. Beautiful antiques and cool whip containers. I want none of it.

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stormynight
Message #1122 - 10/23/10 10:02 PM

I thought English books were expensive in France. I remember going to Shakespeare and Co. (long time ago) and thinking holy carp. Sharing with others is a great way to defray the cost and storage space.
Do you have a Kindle? or other book reader?
I will be moving in a little over a year to San Francisco to a small 3 bedroom apt above my SO coffee shop. It is about 1000 square ft so I am always thinking of ways to declutter to make the move easier. We will keep my furniture since it is nicer but not all of it. The table really needs to go.

[Virgil Showlion]

2007debtheaven
Message #1123 - 10/23/10 10:02 PM

It is just easier to make that decision for someone else.

This is SO true, and it is my belief that this is the REAL reason people hire organizers.

I don't know your financial situation but I would look into the "wet basement repairs" just to get an estimate or two, and to be sure that nothing is going on that could affect the rest of the house.

My parents are mid to upper 80's and are packrats and antiques dealers. I know what is in store for me at a latter date. Beautiful antiques and cool whip containers. I want none of it.

Ouch! I feel your pain. I beech about DH being a packrat, but his mom (a war baby in England) managed to fill up a 4BR house, plus attic, plus garage, plus garden shed with "stuff". She was a lovely woman, but she was into collections, she always had a new "hobby". When she got sick with cancer she spent the last 18 months of her life getting rid of a TON of stuff because she felt badly about leaving it to her husband (who was MUCH older than she was) and DH to do.

Even after her heroic efforts, there was still SO MUCH "STUFF" LEFT. DH had several garage sales, family friends sold stuff on ebay, he gave away and donated a ton of "stuff", and made COUNTLESS trips to the . So even if DH brought too much "stuff" here for my taste, it was literally a tiny tiny fraction, compared to everything he got rid of.

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2007debtheaven
Message #1124 - 10/23/10 10:03 PM

I thought English books were expensive in France.

Gd bless Amazon France now LOL.

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stormynight
Message #1125 - 10/23/10 10:04 PM

Debt
Great sharing with you. On my way out for a quick run in this beautiful rainy MI weather. lol
Stormy

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2007debtheaven
Message #1126 - 10/23/10 10:05 PM

Me too, thanks! Have a great run! I remember posting on your other thread about moving.

Good luck with the decluttering!

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stormynight
Message #1127 - 10/24/10 02:47 AM

I got inspired tonight. Thank you debt!   I want 20 things out of the basement.
4 boxes of paperback books that smell like mildew and have mouse droppings-to trash
2 tables, the one my friend made and another already loaded in the car for drop off tomorrow
1 big cardboard box, cut up and at the recycle bin
1 bag of miscellaneous junk, bagged and at my front door for drop off
2 throw pillows already washed and dried for drop off Goodwill
scrap wood/old shelf for wood pile
shovel to garage
the other 8 still in the basement but ready to haul up and give away (copper and glass artsy lawn sprinkler for my neighbor, old half full paint cans, broken fan for trash, blue and white ceramic ginger pot for Goodwill, extra yardstick, large plastic storage container for parents, and 2 empty cardboard boxes.
Makes a huge difference. I swept the floors too.

Now I feel I can call the wet basement people

That felt good.

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2007debtheaven
Message #1128 - 10/24/10 08:43 PM

Congratulations Stormy! What fabulous progress, it must indeed feel great!

[Virgil Showlion]

dianartemis
Message #1129 - 10/25/10 06:25 PM

Friday - clean the L rooms (livingroom & laundry room)

Sat - clean the B rooms (bedrooms & bathroom), spot clean livingroom carpet

Sun - do weekly grocery shopping, make weekly meals, & clean Kitchen

I didn't get the laundry room or kitchen clean-clean and I still have to make my meals, but all in all, my place looks much better.  I still have to spot clean as well, but I need to read the directions.

I'm going to go through a bookcase shelf (I have 5 bookcases, so it'll take a while) a weekend and get rid of what I haven't read in the last year or two.  I'd like to get most of my reading material on two bookcases.  It'll make my livingroom look less crowded. 

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dianartemis
Message #1130 - 10/25/10 06:34 PM

Stormy - Don't feel bad about wanting to get rid of something someone made you.  Taste changes over time.  So does how you want your home to look like. 

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stormynight
Message #1131 - 10/25/10 10:17 PM

Thanks to both debt & dianartemis
I dropped off the table Sunday to Goodwill. I don't miss it.
Took care of all the other stuff too.
Back to work today so my energy has dropped regarding the basement. I have to keep it a weekend project.
I'm heading out to San Francisco this week to help my SO move. Can't wait to sort and purge HIS stuff. He is a minimalist but still has VCR tapes. No TV or VCR but has the tapes. They are not even movies just shows he taped. They are going in the trash.
I think he also has clothes from the 80's I am going to trash except the Pendleton wool shirts (remember those?). I have a friend that felts wool and makes great mittens out of it. Not sure what to do with the skinny ties. lol
I love going through other peoples things to purge. I would love to be a professional organizer except I would be too ruthless. "Get rid of the wedding album, the pictures are ugly"  Probably would pi$$ off the customers.

Getting my basement started like this felt like a huge accomplishment. I have a completely empty attic. Never been up there.

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2007debtheaven
Message #1132 - 10/25/10 10:44 PM

Dianartemis
That is a GREAT idea about the bookshelves! I have too many too (not to mention DH's) but doing one entire set of shelves always seems overwhelming, doing one or two shelves at a time should be doable. We have a couple of built-in bookshelves in our LR which look fine, but the rest are in the basement. At least it keeps the upstairs looking OK!

Stormy you have done a FABULOUS job! Good luck with your SO's stuff. Then maybe you can come and tackle DH's stuff? LOL.

It is indeed a never-ending battle but I can't complain too much because at least DH generally respects keeping the upstairs uncluttered and keeping the lion's share of his "stuff" in the basement.

We have a small basement, with only two rooms. No garage or attic. A tiny shed for the garden stuff and an adjoining lean-to for the bikes. One basement room is the storage room. The four kids and I and the pantry take up one-half, and DH and his "stuff" (including his tools and the Xmas decorations) take up the other half.

The other basement room is our DS1's bedroom, lucky for DH that DS1 was happy to let DH line one entire wall of that room with his / his mom's books. DS1 moved into that room when he was off to college so he only comes home a few weeks a year.

I do a "basement purge" every year on my half. I can usually guilt DH into doing a box or too lol. Hopefully the idea of the community yard sale will motive him.

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1133 - 10/26/10 07:52 PM

Don't feel bad about wanting to get rid of something someone made you

I'm still trying to accept this philosophy myself. My parents made me this HUGE shell mirror that I never really liked to begin with but I accepted it and hung it in my house. When we moved the mirror broke! I cannot tell you how long I let that thing just sit in my basement. First I know it's really bad to have a broken mirror hanging around but the sheer guilt of getting rid of something my parents made for me was enough to make me keep it. I finally broke all of the shells off of it and threw the mirror in the garbage. That was about a year ago. I can't even remember what I did with the shells, if I have them still sitting around maybe I'll put them in my garden somewhere like a pretty mulch or something. If not I'll Freecycle them. Point being I felt really bad about getting rid of stuff people gave me but I got over it! And my parents never asked about the mirror either in my new house! I guess they forgot about it!

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1134 - 10/26/10 07:58 PM



I didn't make much progress at my house this weekend but reading about the accomplishments here has me inspired again. I've also been saying for so long that I need to go through my books/dvd's get rid of the ones I don't read/watch anymore, which is quite a few.

 

Need advice - DH started finishing our basement last year when I got pregnant. He had planned to move his office to the basement so the office could become our guest bedroom and the guest bedroom the nursery. But he has not worked on it for about 7 months (about since when DD was born). I don't know what I should do to get him inspired to get down there and work on it! I've tried to encourage him so many times. Part of it he says is he wants to spend time with DD but a lot of times on weekends he just sits around and watches TV or goes and plays golf or some other hobby. Part of it is money but there are things he needs to do down there like sanding the drywall that don't even require he spend money. What would you say to your DH to get him down there working? I would LOVE it if part of it were a playroom for DD. I've told him this so many times. It will be SO nice down there when it is finished. He has all the drywall up and one room is even painted.

[Virgil Showlion]

dianartemis
Message #1135 - 10/26/10 10:12 PM

My parents made me this HUGE shell mirror

gardnergirl - I used to make my friends gifts.  After a year, I forget I made someone something.  I once asked someone where they'd gotten a decoration...they looked at me like I was the bug eyed alien.  I'd made it and forgotten.

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stormynight
Message #1136 - 10/26/10 10:34 PM

gardnergirl, can you ask him if he will help YOU start the work back up on the basement. Maybe starting it together and then letting him take over would get him interested in it again. I think it is always more fun or at least less of a chore when you don't have to do it by yourself. Once he gets started again he might get the bug.

debt-I would love to go through you DH things and purge and I won't tell him you asked me to. Sounds like you have him under pretty good control.

diana- that's just funny.

My mom used to make me porcelain  things (vases, picture frames, kitty cats etc.)  with dainty floral painting on them. I am not dainty nor was she really a good painter. Some broke and the rest are in boxes. I get them out when she comes over but with her dementia she doesn't remember anymore. When she is gone I will be sad, but having the vases and knick knacks is not what I will remember about her. My point is that even though it is hard to let go of some stuff it is not the stuff that is important.

OTOH I think my parents still have the plaster hand print with shiney gold paint that I made in kindergarten.

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2007debtheaven
Message #1137 - 10/26/10 11:14 PM

GardenerGirl
Stormy has a much better idea! I would have said give him a deadline and then hire somebody to do it, if you can afford that. I often find with DH (who is very handy) that if I talk about hiring somebody, he gets insulted and finishes the project; but I am well aware that tactic could backfire.

The other thing that works for us (but only if it is a WE project) is, I will be at your beck and call for the time you do that project (like I said, a weekend max lol). Generally DH cooks on weekends so if he is doing a "project", it means I am doing all the cooking that weekend (I hate cooking and I already do it all week and part of the weekend), making tea every 10 nanoseconds, serving him beer, etc.

So I like Stormy's idea better. This said, can you really spare the time / energy? Just make sure you don't take something on that you can't handle for whatever reason.

Another thought: do you have so many guests that you NEED a separate office and guest room? If your baby's nursery is done, and you can combine the office / guest room, and really want the basement as a playroom, you do have time for that. Which do you need more, the guest room or the office? A convertible couch and small closet in the office would mean you would have both. Now obviously if you have people who stay for days, and you and / or your DH works from hom, you probably do need both. This said, since we live abroad, we have people who stay for weeks, let alone days. Now that I have a laptop, it's much easier to just use another surface. But, neither of us work FT from home. Now that I am a teacher I am gagging for a home office, but it will have to wait till DS2 flies the coop.

Stormy, he would probably guess that I asked you lol!

I am so pleased this thread has been brought back!

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dianartemis
Message #1138 - 10/27/10 12:21 AM



My book shelf sorting actually gave me an idea for a challenge.  What do you guys think of this one?

For this holiday season, choose one holiday that you have decorations for and purge one box when you're setting up and one box when you put stuff away.

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1139 - 10/27/10 02:35 PM

can you ask him if he will help YOU start the work back up on the basement

that's a really good idea but it's so hard for both of us to get down there and work since we have a 7-month old DD. I was helping him down there a lot when I was pregnant and I think that's why he got so much done at that time. I can't have DD down there with us obviously if we are sanding or painting because of the dust/fumes but maybe when she is napping we can get down there together.

 

give him a deadline and then hire somebody to do it, if you can afford that

He doesn't handle threats too well! LOL. But that gives me another idea, get some people to give me some estimates and show him how much it would cost if I did have someone else do it. Then try to calculate the cost savings if we did it ourselves.

 

I'm going to try to get down there this weekend and do some cleaning/organizing. It's starting to collect cobwebs and it's become our area for stashing stuff.

 

do you have so many guests that you NEED a separate office and guest room

Unfortunately yes because we live over 700 miles away from our families who come and visit at least twice a year so we definitely need a guest bedroom. We wanted to do a guest room/office but the room is very very small. All we can fit in there is a bed and a side table. There is no room for a desk. We tried re-arranging it a bunch of different ways and it just never worked. That would have been the best option for now at least.

 

The convertible sofa is a good idea though!! I didn't think of that. Guests don't really need a huge queen size bed to sleep on. Hmmm... I'll have to bring that idea to DH. There is a furniture store right around the corner from us that is going out of business. I wonder if they have any convertible sofas.

 

Thank you for all the great ideas!

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1140 - 10/27/10 02:38 PM



Last night I managed to clean out my makeup drawer and threw away all my old makeup or stuff I didn't use and clean that whole drawer out.

 

I went through my medicine cabinet in my upstairs bathroom and threw out a bottle of cold medicine that was going to expire this month.

 

I also took a peak at my book shelf and managed to get rid of a full bag of books that I will either Freecycle or take to Goodwill! Yah!!

[Virgil Showlion]

dianartemis
Message #1141 - 10/27/10 03:37 PM

Great job gardnergirl!

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boos_mom
Message #1142 - 10/27/10 06:16 PM



I didn't do very much over the weekend or this week in terms of decluttering.    But, the spaces I did clear up are still clear!  This week may be a bust too as I have to make the Halloween goodie bags for the kids' classmates.  But, I did finally remember to gather up the receipts to make the FSA claim for our childcare costs. 

gardener - See if the store has futon couches.  The frame just slides down flat to make a bed and then can be upright for a couch. 

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1143 - 10/27/10 06:50 PM

boos - thanks for the idea on the futons. I'll have to check those out. IYO do you think they are comfy enough to sleep on for a week? That's how long MIL & FIL usually stay for when they visit.

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boos_mom
Message #1144 - 10/27/10 07:54 PM



gardener - LOL, we actually have a futon mattress on our platform bed, so yeah, it's comfortable enough for 1 week.  However, it is completely dependent on the quality of the futon you buy.  If it's very thin (usually the one that comes with the $150 frame at the big box stores), then it may not be comfy enough for MIL and FIL.  

Or what about an inflatable airbed (with the built-in pumps)?  So, you just set it up when you have guests.  They have some "deluxe" airbeds nowadays that are higher off the ground.  My ILs actually sleep on one of those and they like it.

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1145 - 10/27/10 08:26 PM

We actually have an airbed and that's what we have DH's siblings sleep on. We set it up in the living room. It's usually MIL and FIL and one of the other kids that will come with them. I thought about that but I feel kind of bad making MIL and FIL sleep on an airbed. Even the ones higher up off the ground I don't think are that comfy, personally. I'll definitely look into the futon, I think that's a great idea.

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stormynight
Message #1146 - 10/28/10 12:29 AM

By asking him to help you I meant that as soon as he got started you would slip quietly away.

I like debts idea. Nothing like a little nudge to get him going or talking money spent vs money saved.

I am leaving at 0500 for the airport tomorrow so I did a fridge purge tonight. My romaine was about 3 weeks old. Didn't eat enough salad I guess.
Something about leaving makes me want to clean the house. I don't really think the teenager who feeds the cats cares, but I do.

I don't do the whole Fung Shui thing but having a clean and uncluttered house makes a lot of sense. I don't usually like red and it would look horrible if I painted my front door red but I do like the idea of red flowers. I can not have a storage container under my bed now after reading this thread. I don't need it anyway since I decluttered my closet.

What to do with all the cat toys? I find them everywhere especially when I move my stove to clean behind it.

[Virgil Showlion]

2007debtheaven
Message #1147 - 10/28/10 08:00 AM

Gardener
I would hesitate on the futon. I agree with Boo's mom that it depends on the quality of the mattress, but I also believe it depends on the frame, and from what I gather she uses a futon mattress on a platform bed rather than on the original slatted frame.

When my DS1 went off to college we turned one of the basement rooms into his bedroom. I bought him a futon from Ikea with the better mattress. Within a couple of days you could see the marks from the slats on the mattress. Also futons are VERY low. If he was here more than a few weeks a year I would have returned it. And I still plan to replace the mattress because he is not comfortable but somehow it hasn't yet happened.

If you can afford it, I'd go with a convertible. Here a cheap convertible is about 300 in a big box store (the futons are about 150 here too) but the quality is much better. We bought a convertible about five years ago for our guest room, we have older guests who sometimes spend weeks. I also think the futon would have been much too low for some of them. It's just something to consider if you will be having them come for years to come, if you can afford the price difference of course. You should definitely lie down on them and try them out.

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2007debtheaven
Message #1148 - 10/28/10 08:01 AM

Dianartemis
I will pass on the challenge because we only have one box of Xmas decorations!

Stormy
Have a great trip!

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1149 - 10/28/10 01:59 PM

By asking him to help you I meant that as soon as he got started you would slip quietly away

Ah-ha!

 

depends on the quality of the mattress, but I also believe it depends on the frame

That's true. And I would definitely have tried it out before buying, but I brought the idea of a futon up to DH last night and he just looked at me. I think that meant he didn't like the idea. I might look into the convertible couch. Those are super heavy though and would not be fun getting it upstairs. We'll see. I have some cleaning/organizing to do first then I'll decide.

 

We are FINALLY having our carpets professionally cleaned this weekend. I've been putting it off for too long, and we've been in our house 3 years and just cleaned them ourselves up until now with a steamer vac, but I want them professionally done. DD is started to scoot and get around more, I don't want her crawling around on a stinky carpet, especially spots where the pets have had accidents. Ick.

 

So that has helped motivate me to clean up and get more organized since I need to move things out of the way to get the carpets cleaned. I want as much area cleaned as possible! We have a large couch in our living room though and I'm not sure where we will move that too. I wonder if we can move it one way, have them clean it, then move it back and have them clean that part, but I'm not sure how it will dry. It's a company that does not use any chemicals and says the carpet will be dry in 4 hours, but still. I'm so excited to have them done! It's the small things in life that make me happy

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dianartemis
Message #1150 - 10/28/10 04:11 PM

2007debtheaven - confession, I don't have any, just a small box of international santas and a fake foot tall tree w/ twist tie ribbons.

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boos_mom
Message #1151 - 10/28/10 06:12 PM

 brought the idea of a futon up to DH last night and he just looked at me. I think that meant he didn't like the idea.

Well, if you and he aren't familiar with better futon mattresses, then I can understand why.  I would never get the $150 futon with frame at Walmart/Kmart they sell.  The frame is so flimsy and the mattress is much too thin.  Our mattress cost about $500 (if not more, I can't recall exactly).  My father picked up a futon that did have coil springs in it too, so that one felt similar to a traditional mattress.  Actually, our bedframe is slatted, not platform like I originally thought, and the futon doesn't sink in between.  But, if you don't have any stores near you that sell quality futons, then it's pretty much moot, since you and DH can't go look and try them out.

FWIW, I used to sleep on convertible couches a lot in my teen years when visiting relatives.  I'd take our futon couch over those convertible mattresses any day.  Those mattresses were relatively thin (because they need to fold) and I could always feel that bar in the middle of the bed (where the frame folds) when moving around.  And I'm a petite person.  A futon couch wouldn't be much lower than a convertible couch opened up.

goal - I will work on another pile on the table tonight after I get the goodie bags done.  Let's see if that works! 

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2007debtheaven
Message #1152 - 10/28/10 06:25 PM

Boos
I agree, a GOOD quality futon mattress is great. DH used to have one in his old apt (before he was DH). Sorry for the misunderstanding! I do regret that carpy Ikea one.

[Virgil Showlion]

boos_mom
Message #1153 - 10/28/10 06:47 PM



2007DH - No misunderstanding taken.  I think a lot of folks don't know that futons can be so much better than the cheapie things sold in the big box stores.  But, if you can't go to a store that has good futons and frames to see and try it out, then folks will never know.  It's like any other furniture piece, you have to spend more to get something of better quality. 

Unfortunately for gardener, it seems like she may have to spend some $$$ if she wants to get something comfortable for the ILs, be it futon or convertible couch, since the cheaper ones may not be sufficient for her guests' needs.

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dianartemis
Message #1154 - 10/29/10 12:22 AM



Redoing last weekend's list for this weekend.  Maybe I'll even finish it.

Friday - clean the L rooms (livingroom & laundry room)

Sat - clean the B rooms (bedrooms & bathroom), spot clean livingroom carpet

Sun - do weekly grocery shopping, make weekly meals, & clean Kitchen

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1155 - 10/29/10 12:48 PM



Last night in preparation for having my carpets cleaned, I dusted the living room and dining room. I dusted off my wine collection and the liquor bottles and moved them from the top of the wine rack to my dining room hutch so they are out of view. Makes the dining room area look MUCH neater. We don't make mixed drinks all that much anymore so no point in having them sitting out collecting dust.

 

This weekend I plan to move the rest of the wine to the basement and also our books to the basement because DH made two sets of built-in bookshelves (back when he was working on the basement). Both shelves are completely finished/stained and look beautiful. Just sitting there empty. So I might as well move the books down there. I might move our DVD's down there as well after I've gone through them. Maybe this will help motivate DH to get working down there too after he sees I'm moving our stuff down there!

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1156 - 11/01/10 01:36 PM

We had our capets cleaned Saturday. It really helped me clean and organize some things to get ready to have the carpets cleaned. I was able to finish moving our books to the bookshelves in the basement. I started Friday night and finished up Saturday morning. I now just have to finish going through the "junk" that I moved to the basement and my one closet to get out of the way. It's stuff we barely use or have collected like baskets of old magazines so I really need to get rid of it.

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stormynight
Message #1157 - 11/02/10 09:20 PM

Had a productive trip.
I got full permission to box up stuff for Goodwill and trash without his approval. I was in hog haven.
He does not buy much but had clothes from 1980. I bagged up so many articles of clothes for goodwill. He also had 2 sets of dishes and mismatched glasses. I am a firm believer of one set of dishes only. He will never have 16 people over for dinner. I am double dog sure he will never use a gravy boat. Anyway it felt so good to get rid of that stuff. Makes moving so much easier.
Coming home last night put me back in the mood to purge my closet. I know I wear the --20% of clothes 80% of the time-- so out some more will go especially the never wear or haven't worn in 2+ years.
I made up a list for some of the basement items to give a way to people who might enjoy them. I will ask them first.
What was I thinking when I bought the copper a glass twirly sprinkler at an at fair for $200? I set it up once but you have to run a hose to it. (not pretty) or have it in a permanent spot and bury the hose. The range was too small to water my back yard and flowers so not really functional either. A stupid impulse buy and now a waste of $200. Anyway I don't do that kind of impulse buying anymore but just have to deal with some of my earlier purchases.

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2007debtheaven
Message #1158 - 11/02/10 09:30 PM

You guys are going full-speed ahead, well done! I am back at work (I was off last week) and I have to admit I can't manage to do much in the way of decluttering when I'm working. I'm not working that many hours but it's a new job and there is a ton of prep work and grading. But I'm enjoying reading about your progress!

This said next week we have a four-day weekend so maybe I can get the younger kids together and finally go through the cassettes and DVDs in the TV room / guest room?! That would be great, plus it is timely, I could donate the stuff to the church Christmas fete at my friend's English church. Those bookshelves have been on my to-do list for two years!

You are all very very inspiring!

[Virgil Showlion]

stormynight
Message #1159 - 11/05/10 12:33 AM

Just to keep this thread going and make it about money, I have found that by decluttering and simplifying I save so much more money. I am much more careful on the impulse buys. I usually wait a few days to see if I really want something. I have my list for Target so I don't pick up random stuff and I find myself just not wanting stuff.

Holidays are still hard. My parents still like to give a lot and it is hard to steer them in the direction of experience type gifts. I love the mani/pedi, massages, facials or just a package with the trainer at the gym but they like to buy and wrap a tangible items.  Last year I had to give them a very specific list of VS items (robe, pj, cami) with size and color just so they could buy and wrap. I am at the point where I just don't need anymore and if I do, I need to try things on. Coming up with ideas for them is impossible. They have a ton of stuff and closets full of clothes. I usually end up with a large selection of restaurant gift cards so they can eat out. I would really like to stop the gift giving altogether.

My new office has 4 support staff that I know are going to want to do a gift exchange. They will want to include me and I don't like that kind of stuff but they have been so helpful and have made me feel so welcome that I don't want to decline either. They are all coffee drinkers so they will all get a Starbucks card because I am so darn practical and can not buy someone a wind chime or cutesy knick knack.

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-Bella-
Message #1160 - 11/05/10 12:47 PM

I love this thread!  I always do my heavy cleaning in the fall so it was perfect that my husband has to be gone all next week on business.  I plan to tackle one room each afternoon after I get off work and give it a thorough cleaning and decluttering.  I am having a yard sale with my daughter on the Saturday after that so really good timing.  I do this to get ready for the holidays.  We will not have anyone at our home for Thanksgiving (going to inlaws) so I probably will start with the Christmas decorating after the yard sale.  We have a neighborhood potluck and gift exchange (dirty Santa) which will come up at the very beginning of the month so I need a woman's gift and a man's gift and a tree ornament for that.  I feel like re-gifting something I have gotten in the past from other gift exchanges!!  Anyway, enjoy the day!!

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stormynight
Message #1161 - 11/05/10 02:17 PM

I enjoy this thread also. There are so many threads out there about stock piling but I can't do that. My tastes or preferences change so quickly that I don't want 10 boxes of a specific cereal. I also shop the farmers market and stocking up on fresh produce for one is a waste of food. This thread is more to my life style of keeping it simple, clean and decluttered. Discussing it with like minded people is nice. I look forwarding to reading other peoples post and how they handle a 'clutter' or cleaning snafu.
Good luck with your yard sale. I hope you sell everything and make some extra cash. I would probably do a yard sale if my neighborhood would do a big one but to pay to advertise and work it by myself is just too over whelming so I have been giving things away. Still kinda holding on to the stuff I paid a lot for (ouch factor).
I just bought some new cookware.  (on sale and a 20% coupon and the Khol's cash) The Cephelon 2.5 qt sauce pans (2) and a 8 in & 10 in fry pan. ALL of my old stuff is going to Goodwill today. So 4 new pieces in and 8 pieces out. I like the negative flow.

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-Bella-
Message #1162 - 11/05/10 02:52 PM

Stormynight - My daughter and I are doing it together at her house.  She lives on a main road.  We will run it in our local paper on the Friday before and put a sign at the turnoff to her house.  Hoping for some Christmas money! And, mainly to get rid of stuff that I just didn't want to throw away.

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1163 - 11/05/10 06:44 PM



2007 - that's great you have a 4-day weekend and are going to have some extra time to de-clutter! I hope you get lots done and are enjoying your nice long weekend!

 

stormy - I completely agree with you that by decluttering and simplifying you save so much money. After cleaning and getting rid of things I am not so quick to turn around and buy something else that will just then again take up space.

 

bella - I always do my best cleaning when my husband is not around as well! Why is that?? I feel like when he is "out of the way" I can just clean away. Maybe it's because he is the pack rat in the house and drives me nuts when he asks me why I'm getting rid of something. Umm, because you haven't used it in 3 years dear  That could be a reason! I hope your yard sale goes well and you get rid of a lot and make some $$

 

stormy - it's not ideal for me to have a yard sale either. I live in a quiet neighborhood at the top of a hill on a dead end street that gets zero traffic. I have been able to sell some big ticket items on Craigslist. The rest I Freecycle or give to Goodwill.

 

This weekend it's supposed to be very cold by us so it will be a good time to do some more cleaning/organizing in my house. I plan to tackle the linen closet and a linen drawer. Yes, I've accumulated way too many lines/towels. I went through it about a year ago and gave a bunch of old towels and blankets to my vet for their kennel area. I plan to do that again.

 

Hopefully I will also have time to tackle my closet and go through my clothes. I've been putting that off.

 

I also have a pile of paperwork that I've gathered together and now just need to file. Hope to get to that as well.

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stormynight
Message #1164 - 11/06/10 01:46 AM

I did the paper work last Tues. It's cold here too so I burned the papers that would normally be shredded. I have gotten in the habit of doing the mail when I get home for the day. It does not pile up that way. I have opted out of junk mail/catalogs so my mail is minimal. I pay most bills online and get paperless statements. That helps a lot.

I used free cycle to get rid of some unusual stuff. Extra roofing shingles in the garage, a feather mattress cover, extra garden tools, and a lot of Christmas decorations. Sometimes that was even a pain when people didn't show up so now I just give it to Goodwill.

I agree with thinking twice before buying something after you declutter. My weakness used to be summer art fairs. Now when I go I get disappointed that I don't want anything. I still go and admire the art but I don't want to spend the money and I don't want to accumulate things.

[Virgil Showlion]

2007debtheaven
Message #1165 - 11/07/10 12:14 AM

Gardener
It's actually NEXT weekend, not this weekend!

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stormynight
Message #1166 - 11/07/10 02:22 AM

I am up to page 70 of this thread finally. I think that I am not too fung shui as far changing luck or fate but I do believe a clean and uncluttered home/life make life easier for a lot of reasons. Less spending on stuff, less spending on storage for stuff, less time trying to get rid of stuff (after the declutter), less time spent on cleaning, less time looking for lost items, less stress when the senses are not overwhelmed.
So the plus side is more money and more time to enjoy what you really want.

Debt you have been on this thread for a couple of years now. Wow. Good thread.

I have read a lot via the internet/books on delucttering/simplifying for a few years now. I like Zen habits and Unclutter, not fly lady so much. I have read some posts on Squalor Survivors but that was way too much for me. I can't understand the hoarding and not cleaning. I have watched Hoarder's on A&E and was morbidly fascinated but again can not understand it.

This thread is more my speed. I hope it continues.

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2007debtheaven
Message #1167 - 11/07/10 03:13 AM

Debt you have been on this thread for a couple of years now. Wow.

Yup. Wow is right LOL.

Like you, I am not a feng-shui fanatic as much as I think it is all just good common sense, keep your home neat and tidy and uncluttered.

I think I am on my fourth and last WIR "race" now. I have been here since May 2007, but never with huge amounts, and I have always raced in "heats" because something would always come up as soon as I was finishing my current "race". Our problem is more carpy salaries than too much consumer debt. We have never been big spenders, but with four kids and a house and a few rental properties there is always "something" that needs doing.

As much as I love this board and all it has done for me, once I win my fourth race in Feb, I think I will be done here. At that point, we will still have debt (about 70K worth), but for two rental mortgages (which I justify as "business debt" because I consider our rentals to be my "second job"). Our house will have been entirely renovated except for one BR (which we can do ourselves cheaply once DS2 moves onto bigger and better things) and the kitchen (which will be expensive and is not on the cards any time soon).

So come February, our only consumer debt should be 2.4K left on our new 6K furnace, at 2.5%, which I am not racing, because I am not planning on prepaying it.

Hopefully Keriamon will come back before I leave LOL.

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stormynight
Message #1168 - 11/07/10 02:52 PM

Not trying brag but I have no debt. I am a PA-C  (cardiology/cardiothoracic surgery) in the midwest so I make good money and a LCOL. I come here for threads that are of interest. I rarely do Smart Spending because I can't relate to many of the threads. Mostly I am on YM. I read more than I post. I feel I am in my wealth building years and the advice there has been very helpful especially with investing. I have not read the Millionaire Next Door but have a good idea of what it is all about. I have changed my life so it is simple and easy. I have no financial worries but my car is 9 years old and I plan to keep it another 100,000 miles. I bought my house for $67,900 (now worth around $150,000) 17 years ago and it is almost paid off. I don't have a TV but have DSL internet so I can watch HULU if I want. My office provides me with a cell phone. I have found the balance between having fun and still saving (most of the time). I do go on a clothes shopping spree in SF sometimes and my travel there every few months costs around $500 (cheaper than Paris).
Once I move to SF my house will become rental property but I know my daily living costs will go way up compared to the midwest and my salary will be higher but not as much.
I like this thread because I am all about simplifying/balance. It is always good to here other peoples ideas and success stories.
Congratulations on all of your debt payoffs. Feels good I am sure. I agree that the rental propety debt is business debt and a good kind (according to Phil and WCP at YM)
Sometimes I look at my kitchen and want to remodel then I think naw not for a rental house in a few years. It is fine now I just get a bug once in a while. Usually after flipping through a glossy magazine (at the library).

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2007debtheaven
Message #1169 - 11/07/10 08:13 PM

Stormy
It sounds like you are really well set financially, that's fantastic! I know you are not bragging but you have every right to be proud. I too feel like we are still in our wealth-building years and that's why we have the rentals. Our house was paid off in Aug 2007. Once it was paid off we used the modest mortgage payment to renovate it, and now we're using it to pay off our car and our furnace (both bought new last year).

We are in the process of selling one rental and buying another so I will use 4K from the sale to pay off the car in January. I can't wait! I really hesitated about taking another 40K in loans for another rental but we believe it is worth it long-term. We have about 30K and five years left on the other rental loan.  

Like you, I believe it's all about "balance". Part of me would love to use the proceeds from this sale to just pay off everything we currently owe (mostly rental debt) but part of me knows that in the long-term, it is better for us to just keep on keeping on. This is the way that we have found to build wealth since we haven't really managed to do it with our salaries. We will also shore up our accounts, and pay off an 11K reno loan (we had a renter that viciously trashed the apt last year, it cost 34K to redo, insurance paid for 20K, so we had a 14K loan which is now down to 11K.)

Paying off those two loans for 15K will free up 545/mo which is almost the amount of our old mortgage payment (595). But, at 50 and 54, I think this is the last time we will "stretch" ourselves by doubling our debt, even if it is considered "good" debt. And we too would love to redo our kitchen one day, but, we have no intention of moving. But that won't be happening any time soon, for sure.

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stormynight
Message #1170 - 11/08/10 01:21 AM

I finally finished this thread and I read about your rental disaster last year. Holy carp. Makes me rethink renting my house when I move. Maybe selling and investing would be less complicated especially from 2000 miles away. I think I could get around $1000/month for this house though. It is 2 miles from one hospital and 4 miles for the other.  If I could get a resident/family here I wouldn't worry about the place getting trashed. I am within 1 mile of the university and do not want a student(s).

The rental debt is ok as long as it supplies income. I just would not want to go what you went through a year ago.

I do feel good about my financial picture but...now I think about retirement a lot. I hope to retire full time in a few more years and then work part time just to get medical benefits. It all depends on my SO business. It is a coffee shop in SF. Still new and just starting to make a profit. Very lean year for him.
 My goal is to work for him/it and have my own dog walking service in the city. I want to be done with medicine. Been doing it for 25 years. We may need my income though for a while and medical benefits.

He finished making decisions about what he is taking to the new (above the coffee shop) apartment. Got his books down to 3 boxes, 2 boxes of clothes, bed, bookcases and the kitchen items I decided on. Everything else went to Goodwill. No couch for a while. He also does not have  TV but we both have Macs. We sanded the carppy wood floors and are painting them a sand color. All the walls will be white and then we will go from there. For the time being we just want clean and light and no furniture until we can make decisions together.

I have enough in savings to pay off my house but the folks at YM would thrash me if I did. Making a move in the next year I should keep the money liquid but having the house paid for would be nice. I go back and forth.

[Virgil Showlion]

gardenergirl0804
Message #1171 - 11/08/10 08:59 PM



Not sure if this fits in with cleaning/organizing/decluttering, but I kind of think it does so I will share:

 

I keep a spreadsheet of DH's hours and where his jobs are so I can track mileage, etc. Last year when he joined the local union they told him he needed 750 hours logged before he could get insurance coverage. I checked the spreadsheet last month and from my calculations he reached the 750 hours (he was laid off for a few months in the spring so that's why it took this long to get to the hours). I asked him to call the union because I carry the insurance for us right now through my work and it costs us $320 (pre-tax) a month for health and dental. He called and they said he is eligible! The HR person said they thought they had sent out a packet, but they hadn't, so they sent one. I filled out all the paperwork and sent it back last week. As long as he keeps working and his hours going the insurance will be covered through his union. Its actually the same insurance we have now through my work so no change there, we just won't have to pay for it!

 

I plan to take some of this money and increase the amount I put in my 401k. The rest increase our savings amount in our credit union.

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dianartemis
Message #1172 - 11/08/10 09:08 PM



gg - streamlining...I like it!

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2007debtheaven
Message #1173 - 11/08/10 09:44 PM

GG, that's fantastic news!!! HUGE savings there!

Stormy
I think as long as you rent to employees or even an older grad student you will be fine! Thankfully what happened to us is pretty rare.

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stormynight
Message #1174 - 11/08/10 11:44 PM

GG- good for you. Nice to have the extra to invest.

Does anybody ever get excited that the 2 year old steak sauce is finally used up to get rid of the bottle from the fridge? I made meatloaf the other week and had just enough. Rinsed  the bottle out and put it in the recycle bin. Kinda felt good.  I have quite a few jars of sauces in there that I need to just use up. I hate wasting food. The next meatloaf I made I used some BBQ sauce combined with worstshire sauce. Tasted fine. The next one may have some Thai peanut sauce in it.

I have streamlined my cleaning stuff to white vinegar, baking soda, dish soap and oxy clean. I still have orange dusting stuff left and don't know how to replace that. It has cut down on all the under the sink cleaning products clutter and is a lot cheaper. No toxic bleach.

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1175 - 11/09/10 01:50 PM

stormy  - I am very much like that. I get excited when I use up something that's been in the fridge like that for a while (and using it before the expiration date ). I also like coming up with new uses and ideas for things. The other day I made a roast with carrots and potatoes and DH and I only ate about half of it. I made a soup with everything and just added some noodles, beef broth and water to it. It was so good! DH loved it too. I have a hard time getting him to eat leftovers so I have to find creative ways to get him to eat them.

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dianartemis
Message #1176 - 11/09/10 09:11 PM

Another thing you can do w/ leftover roast is enchiladas.  They're really tender and good then.

[Virgil Showlion]

stormynight
Message #1177 - 11/10/10 10:59 PM

My parents buy the grocery store rotisserie chicken. They only eat the white meat and I like the dark so they put it in the freezer and give it to me later. Sometimes I end up tossing it because it has been in the freezer to long for me to think it will be good. Next time I will make some chicken noodle soup with it. Cook it in the crock pot, stain out the bones and yucky stuff and add noodles & veggies and cook a little longer.
Thanks for the great idea.

Not much left for me to declutter so this weekend I am doing the garage. Not much to get rid of but I have at least 5 plastic containers of gas and/or gas/oil mix (snow blower). I want only two. Also have 3 thick glass tiles that I thought I might do something with some day. Still in the garage after 5 years. Also have some large stones from the UP which I liked at the time but really? keeping stones? Then I want to sweep it and organize all the garden/yard tools and restack the deck furniture. I may be getting a little OCD with the decluttering and organizing but it makes me feel more relaxed.

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1178 - 11/12/10 02:04 PM



Stormy - that's great that you don't have much left to declutter! I hope the weather is nice for you and you're able to get your garage organized. I feel a great sense of calm when I sit down and look around a neat and clean home.

 

It's supposed to be really nice by me here this weekend. I have a few things I need to do outside. Deadhead some perennials, plant the rest of the snapdragons that I bought last week and replant some of my indoor plants.

 

We'll see how much I get done though. It's hard with a 7-month old! I can only do things for 10-15 minutes at a time before she gets bored with being in her jumper or pack-n-play and tells me it's time to move on!

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stormynight
Message #1179 - 11/14/10 03:01 AM

This thread is dying down again. I want to keep it going. Decluttering/organizing and simplifying is my thing these days.
Did not get the garage things done but I did get all the leaves raked to the street for pick up and the garden hoses put away. Also did a bushel of applesauce and froze it for the winter. Love no sugar applesauce to replace eating sugar snacks.
 Tomorrow I will tackle the garage.
I love flower gardens but sometimes I buy and then don't have a good place or room to plant things. Sometimes it take a while for me to get them in the ground. I have a spot where I put perennials before the frost until next spring when I am in the mood to garden again. It's like a storage closet for plants.

Good for you on deadheading and planting.  I should be putting in some bulbs. I always kick myself in April for not planting tulips in November.

I like the calm too.

I get busy during the week and my room gets messy. Some clothes get layered on the chair and shoes not put away or jewelry put away. Yesterday before I left my room for the morning I put every thing away and made the bed. Took less than 10 minutes. Glad that picking up is really east now but really should be doing it daily.

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2007debtheaven
Message #1180 - 11/14/10 06:23 PM

Stormy you are doing great. I did not do the bookshelves this weekend ... I got lazy and busy with other things.

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stormynight
Message #1181 - 11/14/10 10:16 PM

Yeah well, no garage clean up for me today. I did reading, napping and a quick trip to Target. I did clean the laundry room (pulled out the washer/dryer and mopped) and cleaned the microwave.
My mop broke. I need to decide whether to get another $14.99 squeeze mop or wait till Black Friday and see if I can get a Shark euro pocket steam mop for less than $100. I have heard they really get floor clean and are safe for hardwood. One of those do I need it decisions. I have Italian tile in the kitchen and entryway and it seems to get dirty with all the texture in each tile. Hmmm.

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turtlegirl1970
Message #1182 - 11/15/10 12:07 AM

I was excited to get a Shark last week for $80 on sale from the normal $100, but when I used my store cc, it was another 15% off so only $68. I was busy getting ready for a craft show that I did this weekend so have not used it yet. I will be off Thursday so am planning to use it then. I did some cleaning, laundry and a ton of ironing today, yuk.

[Virgil Showlion]

2007debtheaven
Message #1183 - 11/15/10 12:22 AM

By the way I didn't get to those bookshelves, but I graded all my essays, we got the front gate fixed, and we changed the downstairs toilet seat which had broken, and had friends over for dinner last night.

I also did the necessary paperwork for the upcoming rental sale (requested by the RE attorney), and upcoming rental purchase (requested by the agency, first stage), and DH dropped off both envelopes.

So we did get other stuff done too.

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1184 - 11/15/10 07:52 PM



I only have a little bit of lineoleum in my kitchen and bathrooms so it's not worth it but if I ever get hardwood floors installed like I really want to I would definitely invest in a shark mop. I've heard wonderful things about them, that they get things really clean and kill all the germs effectively. Right now I just use a mop hot water and usually lysol and to clean the mop I soak it in water/bleach.

 

I got a few things accomplished this weekend. Got some of the yardwork done but it started to rain yesterday so I did some things inside. I had a big pile of papers stacked up. I finally sorted and filed them! That felt so good! I need to just file as I go but I get lazy and just lay the papers on top of the filing cabinet and let them pile up. I also finished going through my linen closet and reorganized all of it. I wonder how long it will stay neat and organized

 

Some small things I did, but had been putting them off - cleaned a silver bracelet that I had laying on my bathroom sink for 2 weeks and had DH repair a necklace DD broke when she grabbed it from my neck to play with it. Small things but felt so good that they got done!

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cdarrow26
Message #1185 - 11/15/10 11:31 PM

wait till Black Friday and see if I can get a Shark euro pocket steam mop for less than $100.

WalMart has a Shark steam mop for $39 on Black Friday.  I have been thinking about getting one myself.  Not sure if it's the exact one you are talking about, but, I'm not all that familiar with them.  You can preview their BF ad online...

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stormynight
Message #1186 - 11/16/10 01:00 AM

I will check it out. That would be awesome if it was the one I wanted. I don't usually do much Black Friday shopping but if I need something I will wait to see if it is a super deal. Most of my gifts to others these days are gift cards. The whole clutter thing.

Getting all those small things done does make you feel good. They just kind of keep a nagging feeling and then in 10 minutes you can make it go away. Especially the paperwork stuff.
What I hate is getting stuff in the mail that is incorrect. A bill that insurance hasn't paid or something like that on a Friday. I have to wait till Monday to deal with it, I round in the hospital and sometimes can't get time for personal business. I also have a really hard time getting to the post office.

I still have a couple of winterizing things to do but they are the simple easy things. I have to wait for the weekend though because by the time I get home from work/gym it's dark. My energy for doing things sags during the workweek.

Going back out to SF for Christmas. The floors and walls will be done paint wise so I can put it all together for him and make the apt look nice. He wants to purge some more so I told him to wait for me. Love purging other peoples stuff.. Oh and the size 32 pants he insisted he could still wear went to Goodwill. He had a little reality check.

---

boos_mom
Message #1187 - 11/16/10 07:46 PM



stormy - I looked at the ad online, and it looks like the basic model.  The more expensive one comes with extra cleaning pads and the carpet glider.  But maybe I'll try to pick one up for my grandmother, she loves to clean!

Okay, this is so not worthy, but I'll post it anyway, since the decluttering hasn't been going so well lately!    I went through the Halloween booty and brought in all the stuff to work that won't get eaten at our house.  Then I put the little plastic toys in the donation box.  I'm also trying to find an agency that will take two used car seats since we are moving #1 into a booster finally. 

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dianartemis
Message #1188 - 11/16/10 09:07 PM



boos - try a women's shelter.  Many provide ongoing support for women after they're on their feet.

goal - I'm gonna work on basic cleaning in my kitchen tonight.  Kitty's been sick all over kitchen floor (linoleum) and livingroom floor (carpet).  Then, if I have time, I'm gonna use my new Shark.

[Virgil Showlion]

stormynight
Message #1189 - 11/17/10 12:46 AM

I think the one that seemed to be getting all the rave reviews on another thread is the euro plus not the basic but some one will have it on sale. Target has the model I want for $100, I found it on Amazon for $85 but would rather buy it here if I can find a good deal. I need to check out the GF sales. Tried to do it at work today but was blocked. Guess they don't want me shopping online at work.

boos, I do the same thing with extra lotions or nail polish that turned out to be not the right color. I take them into work and say help yourself and people take them.
Women's shelter seems like a good idea for the car seats.

I got my checking account all current today, matching with the online statement. I get paid once a month but still do different bills at different times based on due dates and when I get them. Still haven't found a good system for that yet.
Those little tasks feel better once they are done. Even returning phone calls are done.

I will be out of town for Christmas so I have no reason to put up Christmas stuff. I won't be a total grinch and will put out some candles and listen to my Christmas music but no tree. Kind of relieved. I love Christmas lights and a nice fire but I am one of those who takes the tree down the day after Christmas. Want my space back even it is empty.

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1190 - 11/17/10 02:08 PM



We got to page 100!

 

boos - I'm glad to see you here again  I know you said you were going to take a break from the decluttering for you sanity on the parenting board. I always feel accomplished when I get the little things done. It helps so much when you do things like that. I think your post was very worthy. I like to bring in extra stuff for people to use at work too. Lotions and things like that like stormy said.

 

stormy - I would have a very hard time managing bills/money if I got paid once a month. I get paid twice a month and it took me a long time to figure out how to manage that.

 

I didn't do any de-cluttering last night. I think I have a sinus infection. I've been pretty carpy lately. Day before yesterday though I cleaned out my fridge! Wiped it all out. It's been needing it for a while so that was a pretty big accomplishment for me. I'm not sure what I'll do this weekend. Have to pack and get ready for a trip to OH for the holiday break. We get Thursday and Friday off and I'm taking Wednesday and Monday off. Looking forward to a nice long weekend.

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cdarrow26
Message #1191 - 11/17/10 02:22 PM

Women's shelter seems like a good idea for the car seats

Most agencies will not take a donated car seat because they have no way of telling if it has been in an accident or not.  Also, did you know that car seats now "expire"?  They are only good for 6 years.  Most now have an "expiration date" marked on them. 

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boos_mom
Message #1192 - 11/17/10 08:18 PM



Actually, I looked all over the car seats, under the covers and everything and there were no expiration dates printed on them.  I have seen it on some other ones, but not these two.  I do have an inquiry into one agency that has tons of different programs to see if they will take it.  Otherwise, I am going to check with another agency.  I know that some of the thrift stores won't accept used car seats, for reasons cdarrow said, but these haven't been in any accidents since I wouldn't give them away if they were. 

stormy - the euro pro is the shark, isn't it?  I thought the full name is Euro Pro Shark.  But I'd have to go look at the box.

gardener - I hope you feel better soon, especially before you travel next week!  I used to get a ton of sinus infections before.  I usually needed antibiotics to clear them up.  Thanks, I haven't been as diligent as I should be, but sometimes a mood hits me, so I do try to take advantage of that.  I really have to just focus on tiny baby areas. 

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stormynight
Message #1193 - 11/17/10 11:48 PM

I think it is the euro pro Shark  or Shark pocket steamer mop. It seems to retail for around $130-$140 but always on sale at Kohl's for $99 and Target $100. It is not the basic model. I am sure it will be marked down for BF somewhere.

I had a long talk with my boss (cardiothoracic surgeon) today. I am his PA-C. He is doing the Atkins diet. Truly believes in it. Not high fat meats (because we do bypass surgery) but NO carbs for the first 2 weeks. He is eating meats, cheese, small salad and nuts and is not hungry and has lost his craving for carbs and sweets. He is on week 3 and has lost 15 pounds. Has not made it to the gym yet. I have always poo-pooed this diet working in cardiology. He looks and feels great.
I am going to do it. I am borrowing the book form the library and AFTER Thanksgiving I am starting it. He didn't think I should start now just to blow it on Thanksgiving. I have plans for mashed potatoes and rolls along with everything else.
So next week I am purging my kitchen of carbs. I would like to drop about 30 pounds and I already work out a lot. Run spin and hot yoga.
Anyone else ever do this diet?  I don't eat chips but I am going to miss my fruit and milk.
Now it is a kitchen and body purge.

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cdarrow26
Message #1194 - 11/18/10 02:15 AM

Actually, I looked all over the car seats, under the covers and everything and there were no expiration dates printed on them.  I have seen it on some other ones, but not these two.  I do have an inquiry into one agency that has tons of different programs to see if they will take it.  Otherwise, I am going to check with another agency.  I know that some of the thrift stores won't accept used car seats, for reasons cdarrow said, but these haven't been in any accidents since I wouldn't give them away if they were. 

If there isn't an expiration date, is there a manufactured date?  It is usually on the back...If there is, then count 6 years from that to know if they are expired or not.  I was not saying you would try to give away your car seats if they had been in an accident, but, as a rule, agencies won't accept them because they can not take your (anyone's) word for it that they haven't.  It can't be verified and there is too much liability.  There have also been hundreds, if not thousands, that have been recalled, and most agencies don't have the resources to check for recalls either.  Have you tried freecycle or craigslist? 

[Virgil Showlion]

gardenergirl0804
Message #1195 - 11/18/10 08:40 PM



Atkins - Everyone I've ever known who has done this diet has had success with it. You just have to really stick with it. I don't know if I could do it, at least not a for a long time. I LOVE fruits and things like bread and pasta way too much. They are just easy things for me to grab and eat. But I wish you the best on this diet Stormy! Let us know how it all goes. And that's one good way to clean out your kitchen cabinets!

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stormynight
Message #1196 - 11/19/10 12:47 AM

I know it can work just by understanding the whole blood sugar/insulin/glycogen and fat storage thing. He highly recommends it because once off carbs (bread. pasta, cookies) he has lost the craving for them. I think after a few weeks you can start adding some back in. He didn't because he is so happy with his wt loss and not ever hungry.
I love bread and pasta but my hardest time will be the limited fruit and skim milk. I drink 2 gallons a week. I love milk.
I start the day after Thanksgiving. He thinks I could have 15 pounds off by Christmas. I would be thrilled with that.
Thanks for the encouragement and I will post about purging the 'fat'
.
Decluttering is all about getting rid of things that don't contribute to our happiness. Well this extra fat I have is not contributing. I don't love it, need it or want it. I am usually trying to hide it so it only makes sense to let it go.

I did a little practice tonight by making cheese and eggs (no toast) but I did have a glass of milk. I will have mashed potatoes, stuffing and rolls on the holiday so I am not doing it yet.

I am spending Christmas with my SO in SF and he is a nuts and berry type of healthy eater so it will be easy not to eat carbs with him on Christmas.

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dianartemis
Message #1197 - 11/19/10 12:53 AM

I'm going to try to paint my bathroom this weekend.  It will need a total of 4 coats of product: A peel & seal coating, primer, 2 top coats.

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stormynight
Message #1198 - 11/19/10 02:11 PM

I love painting but not the prep work.
GOOD LUCK with the bathroom project. Once it's done it looks so much better and you feel great for doing it.

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1199 - 11/19/10 02:23 PM



dianartemis - good luck on painting your bathroom. I love to paint, but the room I like painting the least is the bathroom. It takes so long with all little areas. What if you used the primer/paint in one type of paint? It might cut out one or two coats for you. Just a thought.

 

I put together a box of kitchen items last night to take to Goodwill. That with a big bag of clothes will be going to Goodwill this weekend.

Feels so good to purge.

I also swept the basement last night. DH's sawdust and some scrap pieces of wood that he's had laying down there for months. When I get back from our trip to OH I really plan to tackle the basement. We've done a good job of not storing too much down there but it's dirty. Floor needs washed and the shelves need dusted, etc.

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dianartemis
Message #1200 - 11/22/10 04:43 PM



I didn't get the bathroom painted .  I had some out of town friends come and unexpectedly visit.  However, I do have 5 days off in a row coming up, so I'll get my but in gear then.

I did get to use my new steamer.  It was so nice and my kitchen floor looks better than when I moved in!

[Virgil Showlion]

boos_mom
Message #1201 - 11/22/10 06:59 PM



DH and I got rid of a bunch of stuff that was under our bed.  And while at Target, we picked up a nice  shower curtain for our bathroom and he got a little organizer tray for his stuff.  I tossed a bunch of old make up.  The bathroom and the bedroom look much better!   

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1202 - 11/22/10 09:47 PM



DH sold our aluminum cans and some other bits of aluminum and copper on friday at the scrap yard. He brought home a check for $105. Not too shabby! He got rid of that Friday and we took the recycling in on Sunday so that's all gone. They won't pick up recycling in our neighborhood, wish they would. Would make things so much easier.

 

I didn't get the items to GW yet but made a detailed list of things I'm giving away for taxes.

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stormynight
Message #1203 - 11/23/10 12:42 AM

Haven't officially started the no carb diet but I have not had sweets (candy, chocolate, cookie etc) for 48 hours and no bread for 72. That is huge for me. I am eating a lot of chicken and have gotten creative with the different sauces in the fridge. Can't do bar-b-q because of the sugar. I have now emptied 4 more containers of half used sauces. I like using them up instead of wasting them.

The food bank will get my bags of rice, pasta and egg noodles. Good for me and good for them.

I have the 4 day holiday weekend off and am going to go through the closet and workout clothes. I have recently bought some new workout clothes and need to let go of my torn thin (but comfy) old tees. You can have too many. Tossing the crappy socks as well.

GARDENGIRL  Nice cash for the copper/alum. Feels good to get the stuff out of the house and get cash for it.

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Cheerleading Mama 79
Message #1204 - 11/23/10 04:37 AM



I have started to read this as well as a few other books on feng shui and have started decluttering.  It is feeling so great!  I really do love to keep things clean but I am always afraid to get rid of things for fear of needing them.  One area that I am struggling with the decluttering on is paperwork.

 

Not sure what bills to keep and which to purge, how long to keep paystubs and bank statements....Anyone know the recommended time frame for those items?

 

The basement is going to be my biggest challenge next...yikes!

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stormynight
Message #1205 - 11/28/10 08:42 PM

I think with bank statements, credit card statement, and online bill paying you can get rid of a lot of paper. I think they still say around 7 years for tax records but an alternative is to scan your records.
I keep receipts for big ticket items for a long time. I think too long. My lawn mower is over 10 years old and I still have the receipt. I will do a paper purge at the end of the year.   The small stuff just until it reconciles with my cc statement and/or I know I will not be returning the item. For clothes that is about 3-6 months. The cc statement does have info  in case of not having the original receipt.
My work now offers paystubs online so no reason to keep those anymore.
I get rid of non online bills when the next one comes showing my payment.
Medical insurance papers for a year or so.
My bank statements and retirement funds are all on line so any that I still get paper, I shred/burn.
I deal with my mail when I walk in the door so I never have a stack of mail to go through. I have opted out of junk mail. Some days I get nothing in the mail box because of online and opting out.

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Cheerleading Mama 79
Message #1206 - 11/29/10 04:10 AM



Thanks Stormy.  I have years of old bills from water, gas and electric not to mention I think every paystub my hubby and I have had for the past 11 years.  I have an entire file cabinent drawer of instruction manuals...I am sure for lots of items we no longer have.  All of this is in my basement.  I think that I am going to start going through that first to kick off my basement decluttering.

 

There is SO much stuff in that basement that it is completely overwhelming...one step at a time!

[Virgil Showlion]

Cheerleading Mama 79
Message #1207 - 11/29/10 04:18 AM

Oh - I forgot to mention - I have been getting rid of lots of baby stuff.  My youngest is 3 1/2 years old and it is time to get rid of it all.  I have my SIL having a baby, a friends daughter having a baby, and then there is Craigslist and Goodwill for the rest.  In fact I believe I just have a stroller and a walker left to get rid of.  That means that all the plastic tubs of baby clothes, crib mattress, toys, car seats, and other misc baby gear is all gone.  That feels great!  And I am super excited that it went to two girls that can really use it all. That is what I call getting a bang for your buck!

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1208 - 12/01/10 03:55 PM



Cheerleading -  I understand about a room/basement being overwhelming! Good luck in going thru your paperwork. It is important to take it one step at a time and not get overwhelmed. Otherwise you end up doing nothing because you don't even know where to start. Baby steps.

 

We made it back from our trip ok. I'm no longer sick, just a bit of a cough but DD is going to the doc today. She has a very red eye. I don't think it's pink eye I think it's either a cold/allergy or maybe another ear infection. She's been prone to those.

 

Went through all our luggage last night and put everything away. My SIL gave me some clothes/shoes for DD when she gets older. I have to wash those and put them away. It's nice knowing I won't have to buy her a lot of clothes when she gets older, she's given me so many. But I hate storing stuff for that long. I think I'm going to get some cheap plastic containers and put the clothes in them according to age and store them in the attic for now. Hopefully I can get to that this weekend.

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stormynight
Message #1209 - 12/02/10 12:58 AM

I get overwhelmed in my basement too. I don't have a lot of stuff but the things there I just don't know what to do with or the hassle of getting rid of it. I still probably have 6 partially filled white paint cans. My trash/recycle co states you have to mix with kitty litter to soak up all liquid before disposing. I have secret fantasies of dropping of the sealed cans in a dumpster somewhere but then I would feel too guilty so they are still there. Habitat for Humanity will not take them. I also have an old metal retro fan that I took apart to get the rust off but lost interest in the project and now have no idea how to put it back together. I have a box of antique cup/saucer sets I used to collect. Hate to just give them away. They were $10-$20 apiece, who knows now if anyone values them so there they sit. Things like that. I don't want them but not sure what to do with them. A lot were birthday gifts from my parents because I collected them and liked them at the time. Very Victorian looking and not my taste now and I dislike collections.
I am not the type to have a garage sale or Craig's list.
I also have a collection of Muffy VandenBear and the outfits from the 1980's. Collector type things. Some go for $50-$200 on e bay but I am too lazy to make a decision about them and I have no idea how to use e bay.
Overall my house is 99% clutter free.

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cdarrow26
Message #1210 - 12/02/10 01:17 AM

I understand about a room/basement being overwhelming! Good luck in going thru your paperwork. It is important to take it one step at a time and not get overwhelmed. Otherwise you end up doing nothing because you don't even know where to start. Baby steps.

Add me to that list...sigh..my basement is out of control and it is SO overwhelming to me, I go down there, walk around in circles and leave.  I HATE IT...it gives me the creeps down there and there is just so  much  crap to go through.  About half of it is boxes crap from when I moved here almost 3 years ago.  It is way too overwhelming to deal with, but, I HAVE to go thru it.  I can't just get rid of it all, but, when I do go through a box, it seems like there are one or two things I want and the rest is just junk, plus the fact that it's all now been sitting in a damp, stinky basement infested with mice for 3 years, even if it was good, it sure ain't now...unfortunately, this house still has tons of other people's crap in it that I am sort of stuck with.  It makes me crazy...there is clutter everywhere and none of my rooms really function how I WANT them to.

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1211 - 12/02/10 02:15 PM

stormy - check with Home Depot and see when they will be doing the collection of paint cans again. I'm trying to remember when it was, I want to say maybe fall or winter of last year they advertised for one weekend only they would take paint cans in any condition no matter how old. We had a lot of paint cans sitting in our basement from when we bought the house that were just left there. I heard the ad on the radio and it was perfect! Just took the paint cans in and they took care of it from there. Apparently they take all the paint they collect mix it together, make it usable and donate it. On your cup/saucer sets check e-bay just for a value on them to see if they have any. This way you'll know what the going rate is. It's very easy to sell stuff on Craigslist, but if you don't want to sell them do you know of anyone else who would appreciate them who could take them off your hands? Or else donate them to GW and write them off on your tax return. Also they have e-bay stores where you can take your items and they help you sell them. I have no idea how to sell stuff on e-bay either and have considered these stores. I'm sure they charge a commission but not sure how much. Good luck and let us know what you do!

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1212 - 12/02/10 02:19 PM



cdarrow - if I could come to your house and help you in your basement I would!  I had almost the same scenario as you. Stuff leftover from when people moved, boxes that just sat down there for a couple years. Finally one day I went thru everything. Decided to take everything out of the garage. Nothing was going back in that I didn't want/couldn't use. My suggestion, open up a garage door and remove as much as you can and go through it. If you don't have a door bring a garbage can inside and start going through some boxes. Then have a couple plastic bins for stuff that you don't want but is still usable that you can give away. You'll feel so much better once you start moving some of that "junk" out of your house.

[Virgil Showlion]

dianartemis
Message #1213 - 12/02/10 06:26 PM



stormy - check to see if your state has a company that accepts paint for recycle (google "paint recycling in XX").  Some municipalities/waste companies have different regs and drop off points as well.  I know in California, it's hodge podged across the state between local and county.  Oregon has a statewide collection program (it's the first of it's kind in the country).  Also, depending on what the paint looks like now, you might just Craigslist it as is for free.

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cdarrow26
Message #1214 - 12/03/10 01:47 AM

cdarrow - if I could come to your house and help you in your basement I would!

Awww, I would LOVE that!  In fact, I have seriously considered PAYING someone to come help me with it....it is THAT overwhelming.  I had hoped to get some work done on it this past weekend cuz I had a 4 day weekend, but, of course, the day before Thanksgiving I came down with a horrendous cold that I am just now getting over.  No way could I even think about tackling that mess feeling how I did...Unfortunately, my garage is almost as bad as my basement.  I guess there is enough room that I could move some stuff out there to go thru it, but, I really need to get the garage cleared out enough to get my car in with winter weather coming...

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stormynight
Message #1215 - 12/05/10 06:12 PM

A few weeks ago I said I was starting Atkins after Thanksgiving to declutter my body of extra fat, here is an update.
Did a modified Atkins the week of Thanksgiving knowing I would eat stuffing, potatoes gravy and apple pie. Still lost 2 pounds. End of week one on phase 1 of Atkins (20 carbs only) and lost 2 pounds. I was hoping for a few more that first strict week but down 4 overall and happy with that.
Not struggling too much with carb cravings anymore.
I did read 'Does this clutter make my butt look big?" Decluttering the house, office, life and body all makes sense. I think I would buy and keep less clothes if I was at my goal weight. I think that because I would be happy with the way I looked in clothing and would not always be searching and buying that something that 'made' me look slim. How wonderful it would be to have a couple pair of great fitting jeans and some dress pants, the little black dress and a few cute tops. I know I do the 20/80 with my clothes anyway so I would like to make it 100/100.

Doing Atkins now during the holidays is the right timing. Not only am I not gaining any holiday pounds but I am losing as well. I do miss the special treats though or maybe it is just the idea of the special treats. I can buy the chocolate drizzled caramel corn anytime of the year if I really want it.

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1216 - 12/06/10 08:27 PM



Good for you stormy! I'm so glad it's working for you. Like I had mentioned before, everyone I've talked to said it's worked for them. Maybe I'll give it a try one of these days! That's awesome how much weight you've lost already. And it's always good to keep a goal in your head like you're doing. You have a really good positive attitude.

 

cdarrow- don't feel bad. I've felt like crap too all last week and this entire weekend. DD had it first and gave it to DH and I. We're both coughing and just totally run down. DD still isn't back on her normal sleeping schedule since our trip and is up a lot at night so that is not helping us recover either. Needless to say didn't get any de-cluttering done this weekend.

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boos_mom
Message #1217 - 12/06/10 09:17 PM



stormy - glad that the new eating plan is working out well! 

cdarrow & gardener - hope you guys get better soon!

I managed to pull out a few unused toys from the kids' shelves.  I'll donate those for toy drives.  And I sent off a box of gifts to my friend and am working on wrapping presents so that DH can start distributing them early.  The sad thing is that the gifts for the kids will start coming in soon, so any space that is cleared up will be filled up again.  Oh well, don't worry about that now and just keep chugging at it bit by bit. 

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stormynight
Message #1218 - 12/07/10 12:16 AM

Thanks for the pats on the back. I am on a roll now. I am doing so well I don't want to ruin it with cheating.

Now I know I was addicted to carbs.

It always seems like you get sick when you have time off and have a lot of plans. Better than using vacation days but all those projects get put on hold. I hope you feel better.

I bought the Shark steam mop on BF and still have not used it.  I have a friend coming over Sat to help me move the couch and chair so I can do the whole living room. I have wood floors and I don't want to scratch the floors. I am sure I will find some dried cat puke behind the couch

[Virgil Showlion]

cdarrow26
Message #1219 - 12/07/10 12:29 AM

I bought the Shark steam mop on BF and still have not used it.

Me too!  I thought I might use it this past weekend, but never got around to it...I hope I like it!

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Cheerleading Mama 79
Message #1220 - 12/13/10 03:18 AM



I know what you all mean about baby steps because I can certainly relate wo what everyone has been saying about being overwhelmed by huge projects.  I still have not tackeled the basement yet, but now I have a deadline - New Years!!!

 

We are having the annual New Years Eve Party at our house...that means that the pool table downstairs will need to be in use, and I can't have all the family and friends seeing the nightmare of a basement....I know it isn't a finished basement yet, but it can certainly be clean and organized. Since I have always found that I work well under pressure let's hope that continues to be the case.

 

I have also been reading about the idea of "decluttering" the body of excess fat and I am SO on board with that - of course it makes complete sense.  Unfortunately with all the sweets that I can't seem to resist, I am GAINING! instead of losing.  I need to get on that band wagon quickly!  maybe with all my efforts in the basement which will be excercise it will help with that area as well.  Heres to hoping!

 

 

 

 

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stormynight
Message #1221 - 12/13/10 11:41 PM

Week 3 and I didn't lose. So discouraged. My clothes are looser and I worked out 5 of 7 days so something has to be happening. Not going to give in.

Good luck Cheerleader mom. It is a hard time to resist sweets with all the holiday goodies out there. Thankfully no one in my office has brought them in yet and I will be spending Christmas with my SO who is a health nut no carb type of guy.

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Cheerleading Mama 79
Message #1222 - 12/15/10 03:32 AM

Keep up with the good work stormy!!  I am using you as inspiration for losing my weight clutter ...long as things are looser your work is paying off!!!

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1223 - 12/15/10 04:32 PM



stormy - you are probably losing inches though! Don't get discouraged. Everyone hits plateaus when losing weight. Don't weigh yourself too often. Instead measure your waist etc. You are doing great!

 

Not a good way to lose weight at all, but I had the flu over the weekend. Ughhh. Was not fun. Up until yesterday I still couldn't even have a cup of coffee. The acid maybe was too much for me to handle. And the smell of some foods still make me sick. I gave it to DH too, oops. He was sick Monday morning.

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stormynight
Message #1224 - 12/15/10 10:45 PM

Sometimes I think a nice GI bug would be just the thing. Some famous person once said "I am just one flu bug away from a size four."
Really don't want to be sick but no losing on week 3 was pretty disappointing. I am weighing once a week. Did no have a good workout week so far. Just Sunday and r-ball tomorrow. I have a 3 day w/e so will hit the gym all 3 of them. I am usually good at working out but the food thing is my weakness.
The chocolates are starting to come to the office and it is hard for me to resist but I don't want the last 3 1/2 weeks to be for nothing.
I will see what this Sunday brings.

[Virgil Showlion]

boos_mom
Message #1225 - 12/16/10 08:34 PM



stormy - keep it up!  I agree, inches could be more motivating than actual lbs loss, since when you exercise you build muscle which weighs more than fat.

I think I'm finished with most of the gift wrapping.  DH still hasn't figured out what to get his parents (he usually gets something on the 23rd or 24th).  I do have to wrap the calendars that I just got for all the grandparents, and maybe 1 more gift for the younger child that should be arriving today (love delivery tracking!).  That's about it.  DH delivered one set of gifts.  And I did donate those new, unused toys to a toy drive.

I think I'm going to try and work on the playroom area and also have the kids start figuring out what they will donate.

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stormynight
Message #1226 - 12/19/10 04:26 PM

Body decluttering update....I am down 3 more pounds for a total of 7 (4 weeks). I think the fact that it is slow makes it probably not just water weight.
Been working out regularly.

My other declutter goal is to use up stuff before I buy anything new. My house is not cluttered but I have pockets where I still have too much stuff. My bathroom shelves have a lot of bath and beauty products there. Free samples, hotel freebies and lots of homemade soaps from craft fairs. My goal is to use it all up before I buy anything else. This goes for some kitchen items as well. I am not a stock up kind of person so I want all these little 1 oz bottles of shampoo and lotion gone. I want the soaps used before I buy more. I am sure I have clothes not being worn anymore. I just bought myself some new ones during the BF sales so some must go.

A local charity called yesterday and will be picking up things in my neighborhood Monday. I am going through the clothes closet today and some kitchen items as well. I won't have much but a couple bags will be nice.

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gardenergirl0804
Message #1227 - 12/20/10 07:49 PM



Ladies, I don't want to see this thread die when they take down the WIR boards so I've created a new thread over on notmsnmoney. Click on the link below and then click on Women in Red. You'll see the thread, I kept the same name.

 

notmsnmoney.proboards.com/index.cgi

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Cheerleading Mama 79
Message #1228 - 12/28/10 03:27 AM



I am still plugging away at the decluttering.  Yesterday I went through all my closets and dressers.  I pulled out the pants that I need repaired (my aunt re hems them and fixes the buttons for me and she is visiting this weekend). There were about 7 pairs. I pulled out a large garbage bage full of clothes that are way too small, not comfortable or way too big.  Those are all getting donated tomorrow. With the rest that was left that I definately wear, I completely organize, hung properly and put the suits in covers.  The closets look great and I can see and find everything!  Feels great!!

 

On another note, with the body decluttering that Stormy has inspired - I finally lost a few pounds!!  Yeah!!  I am down 5 pounds over the past 2 weeks - just got on the scale this morning!  I was thrilled - now I need to keep it up through New Years with all the yummy food we will have at our party.

 

Still working on that basement - boy that basement is WAY TOO BIG!!! 

 

 

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stormynight
Message #1229 - 12/31/10 03:57 AM

Good job losing the 5 pounds cheerleader. I was out of town for the Christmas holiday and could not follow my Atkins but I did really well with portion control and minimizing bread/carbs. I weigh this Sunday and am hoping for 2-4 pounds (2 weeks since last weigh in).
A few new clothing items from my SO and I bought myself a new dressy winter coat so I have to pick a few things to donate. I have a one in, one out rule with clothing/shoes/coats. My parents gave me spinning shoes with the clips but I am not giving any other shoes away. The spin shoes don't count in my rule.
I hate my basement. Not full but just odds and ends and dark, damp and cobwebs.

[Virgil Showlion]

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