kittychaos : chaotic kitten

In response to: Hoarding History

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Just wanted to thank you for your willingness to share your journey through your posts. I am a professional organizer and organizer coach, and I found out about your blog in the NSGCD's most recent newsletter. I am currently seeking inspiration for my April tip of the month on my website and was wondering if I could share your insight re: not using items. I would of course give you credit and reference your blog. I look forward to sharing your blog with my clients with hoarding tendencies. In closing, I want to acknowledge you for taking the steps necessary to live the life you want to live.

p.s. Just curious, what would it be like to take just one trash bag to the bin each day?

In response to: No Longer Mine in 2009

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

What is your decluttering process like? How do you decide what goes or stays? I think you must be being really ruthless? :)

In response to: Maintaining Over Progressing

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

:D

Thanks!

In response to: Maintaining Over Progressing

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Keeping up the area you worked so hard to clear is an awesome idea! WTG! Seeing that space will hopefully keep you motivated, and that seeing more & more space being cleared will serve as inspiration to keep going. You won't be able to clear everywhere in a short time because it's taken your whole life so far to create this. If you keep doing better today than you did yesterday, you will see positive results in your life. Congrats on all your efforts to improve your space and improve your life!

In response to: A Lot Done Today!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Thank you Suzanne, it's amazing how much less scary the paper gets when you really get your teeth into it! Thanks so much for your supportive comments :)

In response to: A Lot Done Today!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Paper clutter is my least favorite clutter to deal with as well. Taking the file challenge was really brave of you, considering its hold on you. WTG on all you've accomplished so far!

In response to: A Lot Done Today!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Thank you so much for your confidence in me :) And my first ever blog comment!

In response to: A Lot Done Today!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Excellent work!

Sounds like things are going well so far. You are willing to put the work in, so I know you will reach your clearing out goals!

Don't forget to treat your self

Cheers,

KP

In response to: Better Day

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Thank you both!

In response to: Better Day

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

ruthless IS the word. it's so liberating.

2009 blessings,

Danielle

In response to: Better Day

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

That's great that you realized a break would do you good...and for not letting it turn into a derailment of your inspiring efforts! It does feel a bit surreal to actually enjoy the process of decluttering our life and for the feeling inside changing regarding how hard we think it will be to do. It's a one-day-at-a-time change of heart you are making and I am so proud of you!

In response to: Filing Cabinet and Desk: Before And After Photos

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Congratulations! The room looks great! I bet you think you have more stuff after your clean out because you can easily find everything you need.

In response to: Filing Cabinet and Desk: Before And After Photos

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I haven't come to visit you in awhile!! Looks good! I thought of you because I am watching a show on A&E calling Hoarders. It is on Mondays at 10pm.

In response to: Filing Cabinet and Desk: Before And After Photos

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Wow! You were working hard this month. Stupendous!

In response to: Filing Cabinet and Desk: Before And After Photos

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Oh wow, did you ever get busy!! Good for you! How awesome does that feel to have it done!

Laura

In response to: Filing Cabinet and Desk: Before And After Photos

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I'm very impressed! Way to go!

In response to: Filing Cabinet and Desk: Before And After Photos

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Beautiful! Nice job!

In response to: Filing Cabinet and Desk: Before And After Photos

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

This looks great. I am going to do some more reading on your blog to see what has inspired you and what is helping you to working through this. You should be proud. Working through the smaller things will give you the inspiration to keep going! I have several articles in my archive about hoarding.

In response to: Filing Cabinet and Desk: Before And After Photos

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Thank you both!

Elisabeth, I do keep going and looking at it - I can't quite believe I actually did it. And thank you for calling me an inspiration, I feel anything but! But I do hope my struggles and progress can help others too.

In response to: Filing Cabinet and Desk: Before And After Photos

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Wow, wow, wow! What an amazing transformation! Yeah for you!!! Your desk area looks so peaceful and serene. I know I would keep going over and looking at it for inspiration. (I do this everytime I clean out a cupboard, etc.) I am going to mark your blog so that I can come back be amazed by your hard work! You are quite the inspiration!

In response to: Filing Cabinet and Desk: Before And After Photos

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Beautiful job!

In response to: Continue Progress

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Great job!!! I'm very proud of the progress you've made. Hope you celebrate!

In response to: Thank you!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I want to let you know that you won my Gem of the Week award for Work on it Wednesday. The post will be up tomorrow (Wed.) You can go to my site and go to the right sidebar to find the "Sandy's Gem of the Week" Award button. Right click on it and save it as an image. Then paste on your sidebar. Link it back to my site or to the Work on it Wednesday post on my site.

I will be figuring out the Mr. Linky soon to get it going.

I am very proud of what you are doing!! Keep it up. One step at a time.

I was just told about a hoarding site that is new. It is called Hoard House. The link is

http://hoardhouse.com/ if you want to look into it.

Thanks!!

In response to: About Hoarding

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I am glad that what I wrote made you feel good. I reread it this morning and while I was at work it bothered me that I wrote about it being a "mental condition". I wanted people to realize that it isn't just about someone deciding they don't want to clean that day....but I was worried that you would be offended. While I was at work I got online during my lunch hour and took that wording out.

Thank you for your openness and sharing this very difficult process you are going through. I currently am working with a hoarder and she also is getting some help from a counselor and is making progress. Like you she has good days and bad days (no one can have "Up...get it all done" days everyday.)...but she is working on it also.

You are going to be helping more people than you realize by working to help yourself.

I anxious to follow along with you on your journey!

In response to: An Example

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Jeri, that does help! Thank you. I should bear that in mind more often :)

In response to: An Example

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I don't know if it will help, but let me suggest this thought: You deserve pens that work well.

In response to: An Example

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

As you continue to condition your mind it will become easier to get rid of things. It can be like exercising your body, the more you do, the easier it becomes. Thank you for sharing the thought process behind the decision....it helps others to understand what you struggle with. :)

In response to: An Example

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I found you through organizersandy.

You are so brave. So brave.

Thank you so much for bringing this to light.

Thinking of you as you struggle through these daily battles!

In response to: An Example

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Our house is almost entirely clutter-free now and I still have these little struggles with myself :)

In response to: Replies to Comments

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Thank you, on both points!

In response to: Replies to Comments

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Wow - I just read your blog from the beginning, and you are making amazing progress! Congratulations on all you've been able to accomplish.

And you're also a very good writer.

In response to: February Home Office Declutter Challenge

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I'm ending my decluttering challenge because I'm just not posting anything new about it. I've got an index linked in the latest post, though, with all the useful stuff I posted last year. Good luck with your continued efforts!

In response to: Tidying Mantras

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I came across your blog looking for organizing tips of my own and admire your will to finish this journey. Keep up the good work. I consider myself a binge and purger (I collect and then get rid of it in a mad fit of frustration every other year or so). I also move a lot and that helps keep things at bay. I have two tips for you that I use when trying to reduce the amount of stuff in my house. Tip 1. I ask myself: can it be replaced? You can buy a new pen or another flower pot so get rid of the old, dirty, or broken ones. Tip 2. Ask do I know someone else who would like it or could use it? This can include charities. I have a mound of clothes that still fit, but I never wear, that I am passing to my sister (an obsessive organizer). I know she will take them and if she doesn't want them, they'll go to charity or the rag bin. And that is okay because at that point they belong to her, not me. Delegating that decision makes it easier for me to give things up. BUT, you have to give them with no strings and no expectation of every seeing the items again. I hope these can be helpful. I look forward to seeing more successful AFTER pictures.

In response to: Tidying Mantras

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I love that you are continuing to research and you are looking for resources and answers. You have great determination!!

I finally figured out the Mr. Linky for my Work on it Wednesdays. I tried to add you but when I do it from my site it gives your name a big red \"x\" by it since I am not you I guess? LOL I would love you to add your name officially on my Work on it Wednesday link.

Thanks!!

In response to: Now is Better Than Perfect

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I second Debbie -- think about the chores in little chunks. Here's my story of how I managed my huge Mt. Washmore! A backlog of 30 loads LOL!

http://www.nurturinghope.com/clothing-clutter/2009/01/

In response to: Now is Better Than Perfect

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Overwhelm and perfectionism often do go hand in hand. And as a recovering perfectionist myself, I know exactly what you are talking about! Sometimes it's a matter of semantics and how you look at a task that can determine if you complete that task or not. Breaking a large task into chunks gives you a better chance of actually completing something, and having a feeling of success, rather than defeat. That pile of laundry many seem unsurmountable, but if you set out to do at least one load from the stack, and you complete that one load, you've made progress you've accomplished something. Sure, you still have more to do, but looking at chores as a series of small tasks can help you get more done, have more successes, and hopefully motivate you to keep on going. Some progress is always better than no progress.

I just discovered your blog and I can't wait to pass it along to some of my organizing clients who are going through the same struggles of hoarding and chronic disorganization. I wish you the best of luck in your journey!

Debbie Jordan Kravitz

VirtuallyOrganized.com

In response to: The Story of Stuff

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I'm the same as you, I need to get rid of stuff. I've been simplifying and de-cluttering for a couple of months now but still I have things to do. I had a challenge in December but then December got really busy, so I'm just starting it up again now.

In response to: Shopping

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Congratulations, keep up the good work!

In response to: No Longer Mine in 2009

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

That is awsome!!

You are doing great, keep up the great work!!!

In response to: No Longer Mine in 2009

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Well done! That is an incredible amount in the last 2 months.

Nothing is as satisfying as getting the stuff out of your house.

In response to: Big Step

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I don't think people realize how big of a thing it is to have someone into your house for the repairs. Often that is why the homes of hoarders are in such disrepair. To have someone in to fix things is "unthinkable". So they don't. And the problems multiply to the point that they can cause real health hazards.

I am so psyched even seeing you plan out the time frame. Your thinking is "organized" in the planning of taking care of it.

Fantastic!! Keep it up. (hope you are feeling better too. - is there any mold or mildew that you are being exposed to as you clean? If so...a mask may be needed)

In response to: Words from Elsewhere

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

My thought on the pictures for you may be different than it would be for someone else.

Because you are dealing with such a huge task with your entire house...I would say that for you to sit down and worry about putting your pictures in a photo album at this point in your decluttering might too much. To me that is "fine details" that would be more into the 2nd half of your organizing adventure.

At this point I would get some photo boxes and just arrange them upright and photo first neatly (and not necessarily in order yet) in these boxes. Put them in the decluttered area that you want them.

Then when you have gotten through your major decluttering, you can come back and put your pictures in albums, organize your recipes and do the little projects.

I think that for you to get your pictures decluttered (throw out the bad shots...) and get them into photo boxes,...you are certainly achieving the monthly project that the Organizer Junkie is working on.

You are working under different circumstances than many and I think she would more than agree with me on this.

If you want to do it because you just ...need a break from the big decluttering..that's different. But I just don't want you to beat yourself up on not getting to the "fine detail".

In response to: Words from Elsewhere

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I am going to print out those golden rules and get my family to memorise them!

In response to: Words from Elsewhere

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Oh Wow! I�m really chuffed with your comment above :) and I have changed my comment settings so you can comment now :)

I really love all the links I have found via your website. Keep up the good work as well!

Renia

In response to: Seven Dumpsters and a Corpse

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I suspect men have less attachment to things in general? I can imagine if my husband had to dispose of my personal belongings, he would toss it all wholesale (not out of a lack of love, just disinterest....hmmmm :( ). That is why I would want my mother or daughter to dispose of things.

In response to: Seven Dumpsters and a Corpse

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I am glad you found it interesting. I too was moved by how they equated their success to completing the job. I think what was most interesting was the lack of sentiment to almost everything. It shows how some people find value in their stuff (clearly that was the mother) and the boys had no attachment. Did you notice that both the mother and grandmother of the brothers had gone through specific traumatic events in their lives (bitter divorces)? Thanks so much for stopping by my blog and posting about it. Have a super day!

Megan @ Disorde2order

In response to: Small Change, Big Change

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Wow, I really applaud your commitment to changing your habits! It doesn't sound like it will be easy, but I think it's great that you're blogging about your successes and failures along the way. Best of luck to you as you continue towards your goal!

In response to: No Longer Mine in 2009

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Good going! I hope it continues! How far do you think you are along?

In response to: No Longer Mine in 2009

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I gave you a \"shout out\" in my post today.

In response to: No Longer Mine in 2009

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Unbelievable! You are a work horse!! I think it is so cool that you are keeping track of it too.

I am looking for some more pictures soon.

In response to: No Longer Mine in 2009

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I just discovered your blog and wanted to encourage you to keep up the good work you have started. Way to go! Change is never easy, but most of the time it is more than worth it.

In response to: Recent Quietness

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Good on your for still continuing to make small progress----it doesn�t always have to be large!

In response to: How I Decide What To Throw #1

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I usually make it a point to scan in digitally any paper work that I am about to shred, in case I need it, long after the shredding.

In response to: How I Decide What To Throw #2

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

OMG girl...you are going to be standing at an organizing convention one day speaking about your journey through clutter! You will be the poster girl for hoarding and teaching others.

Thanks for teaching me about Book Crossings. I bookmarked the site. I am sure it will come in handy.

I get inspired everytime I stop by and read your progress.

In response to: How I Decide What To Throw #2

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Your guidelines are just the kind of advice I give to my clients! Keep the books you want to read, want to re-read, or use for reference. (But make sure you really want that reference book; sometimes you can get better information on the web.) Keep the books that have meaning to you that would be hard to replace.

But get rid of the books you'll never re-read, the outdated non-fiction, the books that simply don't fit who you are any more - and any duplicates, unless you have them for a specific purpose. I have a big list of options for getting rid of them (other than the trash) at http://tinyurl.com/2uwtk9.

In response to: How I Decide What To Throw #2

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Great tips!

In response to: How I Decide What to Throw #3

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Getting rid of my magazines (bar \"O\") was one of the best things I ever did last year. And I don�t buy them anymore either which helps--- but that�s easy enough to do in Germany as to buy English magazines I have to go to a specific shop as I just avoid it now :)

In response to: "But I Might Need It Someday"!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I am delighted that my musings have been helpful to you! That is why I share my thoughts.

I wanted to let you know of two important updates:

1) The new URL for my blog is http://fairygodmotheradvice.com

2) I have shifted my focus to being the Fairy GRANDmother--Kind of the symbolic apron wearing, cookie baking, giver of the good kind of hard candy while listening sympathetically and knowing just what to say so that we can live happily ever after.

Recently I've started a new round of releasing possessions back out into the world--primarily vintage sewing patterns. That nemesis "I might need it someday" reared its head. I then reminded myself that my tastes and needs had changed since purchasing most of those patterns. I now work from home and don't need a whole bunch of suits anymore.

But there are days that the process is easier than other days. I salute you in your journey!

In response to: Filling the Trash Bags but Not Taking Them Out

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I used to feel very self-conscious about my garbage too!! I can totally relate to this :) What worked for me is to take out as much as I could manage every single day. I got a little out of the house regularly -- and regularity was the key -- and this is how I got rid of it. That also helped me make a habit of getting the trash out the door on a regular basis once everything was under control. The most important thing is to make sure that there is more garbage going out every day or every week than is being generated. And then, logically, you know you're going to get it all gone eventually. I am so proud of you :o)

In response to: Filling the Trash Bags but Not Taking Them Out

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Ah, don't worry about what the bin men think. Lots of trash equals job security for them. And I bet they have seen far more shocking things than multiple bags of trash. You can do it! You're so close to being finished -- toss those bags so you can get that awesome feeling of satisfaction from seeing a monumental job done. Give yourself some sort of reward once those bags are gone for good!

In response to: Filling the Trash Bags but Not Taking Them Out

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I know exactly how you feel - because I live in an apartment block, we have big communal rubbish bins and if I have a lot to get rid of I like to do it under cover of darkness or one at a time when I hope I am not going to meet anyone on the stairs!

If I am using a particular colour bag that week (they seem to be either green, blue or clear) I am so conscious of not having too many of that colour clogging up the bins as well :( . None of my German neighbours have anything the amount of trash I do.

Your pictures have inspired me though to get some more out into the rubbish again - embarrassment or not....

Good Luck!

In response to: Others' Wisdom, My Response.

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Thanks for the link! It's nice to be found in such good company -- I come here to read about you and then find so many great links as well! :)

In response to: Bedroom Photos

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

It must be hard to post those photos, however in the end I think it will cathartic for you and it will also be a good way to judge your progress in the end.

Are the piles so large that you feel that you can�t start? Or are you working on other parts of the house at the moment?

Would it be worth getting it all out of the bedroom (yes, I know creates more of a problem in another area), so at least you have a calm, tidy place to sleep ? :)

In response to: How I Decide What To Throw #4

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Well done, you made a great start. I've just done mine, it was hard work!

In response to: How I Decide What To Throw #4

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

This is a huge breakthrough for you, way to go!!! Just awesome :)

In response to: How I Decide What To Throw #4

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Congratulations on starting to take the first steps with your clothes- really proud of you and you are inspiring to me as I am yet to do that!

I bet you will feel so much lighter to have the bags off to the charity shop.

In response to: Replies To Comments

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I read all your posts but hardly ever comment, i think you are doing a great job.

My guess is that the neighbours are not going to notice the amount of bin bags, an alternative would be bringing them out as close to the pick up time as possible. If anyone asks just say you are spring cleaning and get the conversation over on the weather then excuse yourself with that you got to do something.

In response to: Bringing Things In

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Good for you! You saw yourself backsliding - it's a common problem - and now you're taking steps to address that.

In response to: Delayed Decisions and Delayed Actions

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Thank you for pointing me towards that post - very helpful. My children are a big source of clutter on tabletops at present - delayed action of putting things away!

In response to: Clothes Organising: More.

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

That�s a fantastic lot of links - thanks for putting them together! Great reading and motivation. Like you, I especially like the line

�If I saw this hanging in a store today, would I buy it?�

In response to: How I Decide What To Throw #5

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I am so proud of you and I am sorry I haven't had the chance to get over here sooner to tell you that! I have had a super busy week and am just now getting the chance to "manage" my email. It really sounds like you have some good systems in place to help manage all the paper and mail coming in to your home.

What I love about your system and process is that you really practice and do the work, then see if you can take it one more step further. Little steps help us every day to move forward through life!

The other thing I really like is that you allow yourself to have "a bad day" every now and then. We all do, but it's how you choose to move on from that day which makes the biggest difference!

Great job - I am thrilled that you are making progress each day in developing systems that work FOR YOU! :) Keep up the great work!

In response to: Book Review: Buried in Treasures

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I have heard of this book, but not currently one I have on hoarding. I will look into it.

Thanks so much!

Sounds like you are still doing great.

Look at you!! This is April and you are still going strong! Keep it up.

In response to: Book Review: Making Peace With The Things In Your Life

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Hi, I read your site regularly, and really enjoy your writing, but todays post and another one are to wide and you have to scroll down to move sideways and then scroll up again, making it very hard to read unless you do it through a reader. Just thought Id tell you.

In response to: Progress!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

So glad you rolled your sleeves up and got a great job accomplished! Woo hoo!

In response to: Progress!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Way to go!!! De-cluttering is so hard when you first get started but as you found out, it gets easier! I have to de-clutter my pantry and office every couple months and it is painful every time until I get going.

In response to: Fabulous Links.

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Thanks for linking to my blog! I'm glad you found No Impact Man. Did you read his post today? I thought it was great. Cheers,

Amber

In response to: Quotation Saturday #3

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Hi Dehoarding Godess,

Where have you been for the last several days?

Is everything alright?

In response to: Quotation Saturday #8

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Amen to that! Lol..

You need a button! If you get one, email me and let me know and I will add it to my blog.

In response to: Saturday Quotation #16

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Thank you so much for the award! Woo!

In response to: Saturday Quotation #16

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Hiya :)

I know you already received it, so I don't expect you to take part twice, but I've nominated you for an award.

Thanks for all your inspirational posts on your blog; it's lovely to have the chance to say a public 'thank you!'

best wishes

mrs Green at myzerowaste.com

http://myzerowaste.com/2009/08/our-one-lovely-blog-award/

In response to: Creating New Habits

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Hello, my name is Darren. I wanted to let you know that I read your blog starting with your first entry from January. I enjoyed catching up to now (I only started this week) and must say how inspired I felt from reading them that my desire to declutter my home has gotten greater. Some things you mentioned so rang true with me, like having duplicates, using up, bring nothing into the home, to list some. I have plenty to say so I'm considering having a blog for myself like you, Jeri and others have, so I look forward to joining the ranks of sharing my experiences! Will continue to see how you're doing and you're in my prayers. In closing, I want to say, "good job! keep on going, don't stop, don't give up...you have plenty of supporters rooting you on..." :-)

Darren

iceblue252

In response to: Advice Request: Electronics

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I used to keep boxes till the warranty ran out, but with the advent of eBay and Amazon, used items are easier to sell with the box. I make them flat, put them in the office closet, a place just for that. For extra cables, I put the manual, CDs, cables in a ziploc and file them in a box. Some cables can be put to a USB bus and used for more than one item, my GPS and cell phone use the same one. If I buy a new item, for example, I just bought a new point and shoot camera, I sell, hand down, freecycle, something to get rid of the old one. I don't let them pile up. I would like to figure out a way to label cables without sticky residue left behind.

Some things you know you will not try to sell, like a printer, I wouldn't save those boxes.

In response to: Advice Request: Electronics

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

My suggestion is that for major electronics you keep the box until the return time to the store is over. If there is a manufacture warranty and it is something that you know for sure you would make the effort to send it away for repair, then keep the box until that warranty is over. You can label that box with that date and then you will know when you can pitch it and feel safe.

For the cable a box or basket is fine. But label them. You can get labels specifically for labeling cables, but it is just as easy to use a return address style sticky label. Write on it what it is for and a date and wrap it so you can read it.

Makes life much easier later. I try to label cables as soon as they come out of the boxes. We get so many of them and even though you feel like you will remember what they are for...you won't.

In response to: Advice Request: Electronics

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I use the one box with all the cables in it method, but I label each cable first. I just take a small piece of paper and write the cable's use on it, i.e., digital camera, and then use clear tape (cello tape I think you call it there) and wrap it around the cable and the piece of paper. Just make sure the tape froms a barrier all the way around the paper. I've never lost one yet. My husband will even go as far as using a plastic zip tie to keep them neat in the box.

Good luck.

In response to: Advice Request: Electronics

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I get rid of the boxes too after I know something is working for a reasonable time. Even if I had to return something for being faulty, I would get another box to use if necessary.

As for cables and manuals, iceblue�s suggestions is great (I will start doing this from now on!) but I would also make sure the bag is big enough to keep the manual in too :)

So, have fun throwing those empty boxes out without any guilt!

In response to: Advice Request: Electronics

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Hello again, how about this...

<<1. I don't know what to do with the boxes that electrical items come in. I don't want to get rid of them in case something goes wrong with the item and I need to return it to the shop. But they are often big and bulky, and I just don't know what the answer is. >>

My solution: once I find my item working fine, I just throw away the box(es). Usually I store the instructions in a folder somewhere. I have mine for different stuff in a filing cabinet (which I need to organize, of course).

<<2. Leads and wires and cables. The ones that I use regularly are fine. But then when you buy something like a digital camera or an mp3 player, it comes with many more cables which you might only use occasionally. I have thought of having a plastic box or wicker basket just for those cables, but then they would all be mixed up together, and when I needed one for, say, the camera, I might not know which is the correct cable for the item. As it is, I tend to keep them in the original box (see #1 above!), and that just gets chaotic, not least because I have no system for them either. >>

My solution: I'd store the cables and such in a clear plastic bag but make sure they don't take up very much space. (To declutter is to use up as little space as possible, right?) For plastic bags, I recommend Great Value quart- to gallon-size ones available at Walmart (I found mine near the tissue products section, like Kleenex, toilet paper, etc.). Use an index card for each bag, list on it the contents, what they're for, store the card in with them. This way, all the pieces are kept together and they can be read quickly without opening the bag! You wouldn't have to take them out of, say, a box or filing cabinet, only to clutter up again. You can just leave it there if it's not what you're looking for.

Just an idea til you find something else that works better for you.

In response to: Back!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Glad you are back too! I was beginning to wonder and sorry to hear you were sick.

Good on you for taking out the trash! :) and I look forward to hearing more.

In response to: Back!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I am glad you are ok and feeling better. Wow....bet you are wiped out. Just take it slow and get your strength back.

I love the habits your mentioned. About taking out trash each time you leave the house and trying to take things into other rooms when you leave the room.

Maybe try putting them right in front of where you have to walk to leave the room ...so you would either have to step over them (hopefully not) or pick them up and carry them out.

I know I do that if I accidentally carry up my cell phone to my bedroom, or my reading glasses that go downstairs. I put them right in front of my bedroom door (and hope my DH doesn't get there first and step on them....lol) so that I won't forget to get them back downstairs in the am.

But these are WONDERFUL habits. Kudos to you!!

In response to: Making Changes

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Keep up the good work! Your bathroom looks great! I wish mine would look that good. How's your attempt at making and following a list going? Please let us know.

In response to: Bathroom Bonanza

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Hi, it looks good :)

In response to: Bathroom Bonanza

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Having the bathroom organised and clean is a great small step to feeling more in control. Its one place in my home that is regularly messed up by the kids, however that I can clean up in 5 or 10 mins each day, So, it generally stays clean....and I try to declutter regularly like you did today.

Hooray for more bags of rubbish out!!

In response to: On the Go!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Sorry to hear you have been having trouble sleeping and feeling stressed about things. I hope today�s post with more carrier bag out is the beginning of a more positive period! I can fully relate to feeling stressed about someone coming to the door lol!- yesterday my neighbour helped me carry my groceries up (he insisted as I had the baby) and I couldn�t let him past the front door due to the mess.

In response to: Decluttering Shoes

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

You inspired my post today! Check it out.

Also....look in a few minutes (I still have to work on it) as I am going to post an award post under my Work on it Wednesday and you are going to be receiving that from me too!

In response to: Decluttering Shoes

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I say you should take a picture of them and give them a proper blogging funeral!!!

Think of all they good times they have given you...all the memories...\"step by step\".

Remember the \"comfort\" your little piggies have felt because of their soft soles (souls).

\"Walk on\" to a better shoe heaven ....you will be missed. :)

In response to: Links You Should See

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

How I wish I spoke fluent english to thank you properly for the links and all I found out through your blog, and to be able to know you better. Meanwhile keep on going and why not try to tell a little bit more of your thoughts and beliefs : it sounds so familiar to me !

In response to: Computer Decluttering

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

We just had to do this ourselves and now computer working much better

In response to: Shoes Begone!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Hey, well done, I am yet to get rid of any shoes. You are inspirational! x

In response to: Shoes Begone!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

You Go Girl!!!

In response to: One Lovely Blog Award

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Why thank you so very much - I'm flattered! When the Clean Freak Confessions site moves on, you can find me at CoolMomPicks.com and at Mom-101.blogspot.com.

And now...off to click on all these wonderful new blogs.

In response to: Kitchen: Lists

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

how does the fridge look like by now ? that could be the hardest part ! because inside is always what you think you deserve...

In response to: How I Decide What To Throw #6: Unwanted Gifts

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Wow, Chaotic Kitten - you sound just like a professional organizer! Those are basically the same points we raise with our clients, and the same suggestions for getting rid of things. Congratulations to you for realizing that keeping every gift just doesn't make sense.

In response to: New Blogs I'm Reading

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Thanks for reading my blog! I come from a long line of clutterers and hoarders, starting with my great-grandfather who scoured the streets and the local dump every day for "treasures" to bring back to his house and pile up in every conceivable place. My grandmother's house is a fire hazard because of all the junk, and my mom is a huge collector of "stuff" but is at least very neat about it.

All of this almost makes me the "black sheep" of the family to be downsizing my life to a single backpack to travel around the world! I'm finding the key to all this is letting go of the emotional attachment to things, whether it is sentimental value or the fear of not having enough. Of course, that is easier said than done, and I'm struggling with it every day.

I welcome your input at the blog, and of course I'll be checking back here to see how your dehoarding is progressing. Good luck!

In response to: New Blogs I'm Reading

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Oh goodie! New reading, thanks for the links!

In response to: Kitchen Update

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

That�s great you got your kitchen dishes done- it always feels so much better to have a clean sink and you can work outwards from there :).

Slowly does it....

In response to: Kitchen Update

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

\"but...

but...

but...\"

it IS good !

In response to: Kitchen: Mental Blocks

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Awesome!! I love that you broke the whole process down. You took something that seemed completely overwhelming to the point that people don't do anything-and broke it down into small "do-able" portions that make sense.

Yes yes yes...please take before pictures...because then seeing the after ones will seem that much better.

I am highlighting you again today in my Work on it Wednesday Post!!

In response to: No Longer Mine in 2009

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Hi! I just found your blog the other day and finally got time to sit down and read it. You are doing a fantastic job. I hope that soon I can say I have gotten as much done as you have.

Anyhow, I wanted to suggest a couple of sites that have really helped me.

The first is www.organizedhome.com

and the second is an article found at http://christinekane.com/blog/56-things-you-can-toss-out-now/

Good Luck and I look forward to reading about your successes!

In response to: Kitchen

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I would love to see your before and after photos! Please do post them :)

In response to: Ouch!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Sorry to hear that - Get Well Soon! and rest up in the meantime.

In response to: No Longer Mine in 2009

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Wow, that is incredible! I have been reading your blog for a while, it's very interesting. Thank you for sharing your journey.

In response to: Inspiration and Motivation.

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I linked to you today, thanks for the great post as usual. I found it very inspiring too!

In response to: Every Day

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

What a beautiful way of looking at the day. :)

In response to: Finders, Keepers... Hoarders, Weepers.

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Love Peter Walsh book It's All Too Much from Oprah. He has you focus on what you want from each room and go through each room with that in mind. It really has helped me get rid of 'stuff' that I was holding onto for no reason.

In response to: 5 Things I Can Live Without: Thursday

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Hiya :)

I've been reading your site for a couple of weeks now and wanted to say that you are such an inspiration. I love these posts about 5 things you can live without and you've motivated me to do the same.

I've reached a crisis point in my life where I need to tackle a declutter and thorough clean of my home. I keep reaching this space, but now is the time to do it. I really need some order!

I started yesterday by deep cleaning my bathroom and plan to move through the house. I'm giving myself to the end of the year to achieve this, because I know I have a tendency to crash and burn.

Anyway, thanks for your posts and keep up the great work; you have heaps of great links for me to sift through at some point!

In response to: Bedroom

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Yay! Well done you! I'm still working on a thorough clean and declutter of my house too. I've done the bathroom and am half way through the kitchen.

I've released 2 boxes of food on Freecycle and lots of mugs, saucepans and other things to the charity shop.

I even pulled out my fridge and cleaned beneath it LOL!

I feel such a reward when I can find things in the cupboards. It's tough with my hubby as he is a hoarder, but the home will look better even with just me getting rid of my stuff

Well done on clearing your bedroom

In response to: No Longer Mine in 2009

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

You should be so proud of yourself You have done a great job!

Keep up the good work!!!

In response to: Burst of Activity!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Great Job! Show us some more pictures. We loved seeing your desk and bathroom. Is there more carpet showing in the bedroom? Did you ever find what you were looking for? Keep up the good work!

In response to: Getting Rid.

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Oh really well done you - this is fabulous news. To get rid of letters and magazines are two of my difficult areas too. but I'm just about managing it.

I think, as you say; it gets easier to become ruthless as you move through this stuff. Books was always a biggie for me and now I have a bulging shelf waiting to be put onto Amazon.

Fabulous stuff; I love reading your posts; they always inspire me!

In response to: Getting Rid.

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

You are doing great! Keep up the good work!

In response to: Disheartened

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I too am sorry you're feeling disheartened. But it is indeed hard work you're doing, and it's bound to have its ups and downs.

Besides reading old posts to see how far you've come - look at all those things that are no longer yours! - have you tried taking pictures? Sometimes it helps to have "before" pictures to remember how much you've accomplished.

And just listen to yourself! "I am still finding it much easier to get rid of things," you say. That's a HUGE mental shift, and it will mean that, bit by bit, you'll get to where you want to be.

In response to: Disheartened

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Sorry to hear you are feeling overwhelmed. I think it's pretty common. The thing I find too, is that decluttering can be exceptionally emotional. I know that sounds silly, but when you think you are sorting through so much old stuff - esp. letters, photos, things from our past, they all carry an energy about them and sometimes it can feel draining.

I think your attitude is great though and you're definitely a winner. I can sense it. Just keep doing what you are doing, because you have proven to yourself already that it works.

When you're next having a blah day, read back through some of your old posts and see just how much you have achieved. You are such an inspiration to me, now go and be an inspiration to yourself ;)

Celebrate that you found the missing paper work too and focus on your goal of never having to search for paperwork again.

Good luck!

In response to: Thank you for support

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

So glad it helped. You really are such an inspiration to me that I'm so pleased I was able to help you just a little bit...

Hope you had a great day :)

In response to: An Award!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Ahhh, you are so welcome, the thanks go to YOU for being such an inspiration. My house is getting less decluttered too and your idea of 'what could I live without' really helps me as I work my way around the place :)

I love reading what you have been up to and how you are progressing; it reminds me of my own goals.

In response to: 5 Things I Can Live Without: Thursday

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Awesome job knocking some of your items off your list. Little bit everyday.

Keep up the great work!!

In response to: What should I do?

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

my vote: get rid of it!

my husband has a "box" we've been toting around for 12 yrs. we have had to move 3 times in the last year. i finally opened the box to see what was in it & to my dismay: a large box of old sports (championships games, world series, olympics, etc) vhs tapes. i couldn't believe it! i was under the impression they were family vidoes! so, needless to say he has had to go through them & toss. am i cold hearted? no. why? because...

chances are great you can find "it" on youtube.

what was the band by the way?

enjoy ur blog by the way - be strong, keep on, u can do it!

In response to: What should I do?

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Consider allowing yourself one box/basket of memory items that are for items like your tape. As you go along and you find yourself not wanting to let something like that go, then put it in the box. Once the box is full, nothing else can be added unless you can take something out to make room for a new item. You may find that you keep reaching an emotional limit on getting rid of things and after you've rested you'll find you can let go of it. Especially if it is to keep something more important to you.

In response to: What should I do?

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Why don't you look into having it transferred to DVD? Certain electronics stores, or even some photo developing centres will do it for a small fee.

In response to: Overwhelmed

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Oh good luck honey; I love how you are processing this. You're right - just focus on the laundry for now - take your laundry basket up to your room (along with the trash can for later) and put all washing in there, then dump it on the landing.

After that pick up all the clothes that need putting away and do just those.

Maybe you've done that already an you're on to the books by now....

I hope so! And good luck. I bet you'll have a fabulous day.

one step at a time....

one fabby question a counsellor gave to me once: "What is the smallest step I could take right now that would make the biggest difference?" I find that really empowering.

Another trick she taught me was to do something for 15 seconds. Yes, you read that right, 15 SECONDS. I thought she was batty; but try it and see if it works for you :)

Cheering you on....

In response to: Panic!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I get panicked whenever have family visit - it becomes a race to see which happens first, me finishing the dishes or them ringing the doorbell! Just keep focused on your acheivements, and good luck!

In response to: Giving Things Away

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Congratulations! I'm so glad to see you've found what works for you, and what doesn't - so now you have the strategies to use when you need them.

And as an ardent Freecycler - there are things sitting on my porch right now, to be picked up later today - I'm delighted to hear Freecycle is working well for you, too.

In response to: Wardrobe!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Well done, keep going you're doing so well :)

In response to: Wardrobe!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

That's great!!! Grab some bags and start stuffing. Take it straight to the charity shops. Or better yet, call them to come get it. Some of the ones in the US will come to you if you have enough to make it worth it. It may even inspire you to find more in your house to go out just to make the pile bigger for them. You are right, if you didn't need to get to it in the last few years, then you don't need it.

Way to go!!!

In response to: Stop

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

That sounds like a really heavy day for you, but what a great support worker you have. She's absolutely right; you could work solid for the next 48 hours and all you'll do is burn yourself out and depress yourself, so it's time to stop and focus on what you HAVE done. The rest can wait.

You have done brilliantly, and it's a good time to stop, give yourself credit and feel good about your achievements. Next week you can start again slowly :)

Best of luck with the visit - tbh as long as you pay your rent and the place isn't obviously trashed (clutter isn't the same as trashing a place) then you'll be fine I'm sure ...

In response to: Back to it - Gently!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

can you recommend other blogs that are similar to yours-someone blogging about their efforts to dehoard? i have been following your blog now for a short while, and have started my own with photos...scary. i am not ready to share that blog just yet, but soon...i appreciate your taking the time to write about your experience. Thank You.

In response to: Back to it - Gently!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Hi Kitty, have just been catching up on your blog and wanted to let you know that you are doing a great job! and I hope the landlord visit doesn�t stress you out too much- will be thinking of you. Please let us know how you get on. x

In response to: Saturday Quotation #28

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I read your blog often. Do I ever feel your pain. I am tryng to work through stuff a little at a time and get rid of it. I keep putting it off saying I will have a yard sale.

Well I set a date and whatever doesn't sale is going to charity. I am going to continue going through stuff that I don't have time to before the sale and just box by box give it to charity. It is so hard to go through things piece by piece, but your blog is encouraging me. You are not alone. Please keep blogging... it is really helping me.

DeAnn

In response to: 5 Things I Can Live Without: Thursday

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Hi-I've been reading your blog for a bit and I just wanted to say I think you are absolutely amazing. I don't even know you but I am so unbelievably proud of you for having the courage and strength to try to overcome the clutter and hoarding. You're an inspiration to a LOT of people who also struggle with these issues. All of the best to you! <3

In response to: 5 Things I Can Live Without: Thursday

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

hello-i assume you know about the a&e t.v. series called hoarders?? i have been watching episodes over the internet, which have been very motivating in keeping me going in my own situation. there are therapists in the series that offer good insights throughout the episodes as they work with real life hoarders in their homes to try and help them. just thought i would pass that along as another resource for you if you are interested.

also wanted to know if you could advise me on other blogs similar to yours that are good to follow that are hoarders talking about their situation and the ways in which they are making efforts to change?

In response to: Drawer

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

You have inspired me to tackle my desk side "junk" drawer today! I have been looking at that drawer for weeks thinking to myself... "I need to get that cleaned out" and now... I am going for it! Thanks!

What's so great is when we can inspire each other to keep on keeping on! Have a super weekend!

In response to: Seeing Stuff I have Dehoarded In the Shop

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

This happened to me one time at a charity book sale after donating some books. I found one that I had given to them and had to fight the impulse to "rescue" the book. I convinced myself that it was now someone else's problem and let it go.

In response to: Decluttering... My Handbag

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I keep my wristlet (I use it as a wallet), car keys, cigarettes, lighter, and a cell phone in my purse. Occasionally, I'll throw my day planner in it as well (if the purse I'm using that day is big enough!)

In response to: Decluttering... My Handbag

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Glad I found your blog! My purse is bad too... actually, I've gotten so annoyed with it, I've taken my credit card and drivers license out, stuck them in my back pocket and stopped carrying my purse!

In response to: Christmas Gifts

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Good for you, Chaotic Kitten! I've had a very similar reaction because of my work as a professional organizer, where I see people struggle with things they got as gifts, don't like, but are concerned about giving away. It made me more conscious than ever about my own gift-giving.

In response to: Happy New Year!

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Happy New Year! I just wanted to stop by and leave you some well wishes. I stumbled across your blog recently and was inspired to start my own journey of dehoarding as well. Best luck to you in 2010!

In response to: Family Visit Approaching

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

You've come so far; you have every reason to be proud of what you've accomplished!

In response to: Problem Areas #1: Clothes that have been washed

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

i can relate to this post extremely well. i have tried the laundry basket idea you mention as solution #3 a while ago when i was trying to figure out solutions for my disorder. however the laundry basket would get the clean folded or unfolded clothes in it, and then they would stay in there forever, making it unavailable for future loads. eventually i had several laundry baskets full of clean clothes. when i needed the baskets again, i would pile the clothes on chairs, the bed, and couch, because there was no room in my dressers or closets, or i had some notion that i was going to going through a dehoarding process before i put them away, but all those clothes are still there waiting. the real problem for me is that i have too many and i don't look forward to putting them away because there is no room to put them away. i have more than i could possibly ever get around to wearing. i have a month by month plan to tackle my house, and clothes are on the agenda for february. i am looking forward to seeing if i can make a noticeable change in my habits surrounding keeping clothes.

In response to: Problem Areas #1: Clothes that have been washed

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

I would suggest a basket for the clean clothes to make it easier to bring them upstairs, and also it will look a lot tidier when in a basket than in a pile.

In response to: Problem Areas #2: Trying to Maintain the Kitchen

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

Seems like a good plan. This is how i try to keep my kitchen tidy. It is really hard to get into it i find, but once you get into the routine of it ist much easier to maintain!

In response to: Feeling Slightly Better

1970-01-01T01:00:00Z

You are right, slow and steady wins the race. Keep going at a pace you can keep up with, so that you can keep doing bits every day. If you overdo it one day you might have to not do anything another day and that is worse in terms of result than getting some done everyday.

I think you are doing great! The more you get done the better, but its not going to be perfect, not for your family and not for the workmen, you just have to get it as god as its gonna get, and that is still amazing, and you have come a long way.

Good luck with todays goals!