I started the big Dredging Out project of 2015 this AM. The stuff around here has gotten a little out of control, it’s time to de-junk. I started with my office.
Right. Maybe I should have started with a different challenge. But this room is such a holy disaster that it is dragging me into psychosis. I finally got the clutter off the top of the hope chest to get it open.
The Hope Chest of Doom. Really.
Yes, that is my mom’s hope chest. And no, that’s not going anywhere. One of my nieces will probably get it as I get closer to the ultimate retirement. It is currently full of totally useless junk instead of being available for useful storage.
Here are just a couple of examples.
The tassels are from my graduation from high school and medical school. Don’t ask me why I kept them. And no, I have no idea where the college one went. It’s probably in the depths of the hope chest.
The little ceramic girl was made by my mom. Yes, it’s cute. No, I’m not keeping it. At this point in my life it is just clutter. Sentimental clutter, to be sure. I don’t need this to remind me of what a wonderful lady my mom was.
And yes, I got immediately sidetracked into a blog post. You should see how much time I wasted coming up with the ultimate Dredging Out music playlist.
I figured you’d all want to see all the junk I discover. Just wait until I get to the knitting stuff. Yes, some of that is going out of this house too. I have more knitting bags and tape measures than any one person will ever need.
Back to work.
I’m in the process of dredging out as well. I already have 8 knitting bags to get rid of. Haven’t started on the yarn yet.
I’ve barely scratched the surface … sigh.
You have saved those tassels for good reason (must have a little Texan in the blood cause that’s what ya do in Texas)…Latest thing I have seen were clear Christmas ornaments with the tassels inside. Just think how many comments you will get at Christmas with these hanging on the tree!
Recentky added your site to my Feedly. Looking forward to watching your memories and head shakes as you discover everything and make decisions. What an awesome task to be undertaking. I’m sure the outcome will be freeing and refreshing for you and your home.
Is it the new year? Because I’ve all of a sudden been bitten by the cleaning bug. I cleaned out 70% of my gift bags, gift boxes, wrapping paper and greeting cards. Then today, cleaned out the drawers in my Bathroom. Another couple of cartons to donate to the senior center’s thrift shop. I also went through all my yarn and lots of my craft supplies…a carton to go to the crafting consignment shop. Little by little…not setting a deadline or getting frustrated if I get sidetracked. But at least trying to do a bit every day. Not too anxious getting to my sewing room though…now, that’s a mess.
Empathy from the Deep South! I have been taking a couple of boxes or bags of stuff out every other week or so. I’m going slowly and thinking about the emotional weight or role of the stuff in my life. The Life-changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo has helped me recognize the emotional value and price of stuff. You might enjoy it if you haven’t read it yet.
Clearing out the past, the things that hold memories, can be very difficult. What do you get rid of and what do you keep? I’ve worked hard to get out the clutter, to remember that memories are in my head and heart, not in the objects. I love the organized shelves and empty spaces. Good luck with your project!
I’ll be behind you shortly on this frustrating task. Looking to you for inspiration 😉
It’s not fun to find stuff and keep wondering what one was thinking to have saved these items. Thanks for the inspiration. Keep us posted on the progress. Lovely room, your office.
I am cheering you on!!! Being a caretaker of stuff is emotionally/mentally exhausting…You will feel so much better. Keep your eye on the prize!!!
Hopefully the dredging is going well and the playlist is helping you stay on track… 😉