With that... I want to mention the fall downsizing season. It's such a temptation to put off the de-cluttering until spring. Isn't it? If you are one of those people, please give me a minute to plant an idea: Be kind to yourself. Don't make it worse and keep adding to it. The downsizing project you want to do in the spring is big enough. Even if you grab one box, or one bag a week... and sort it watching the news, it will help you. Try to break your project up into small phases. Really, it helps. By the time spring comes around, you will be surprised and so pleased with yourself at how much you were able to get done.
Needless to say, my own family story helps me appreciate and empathize with the families I work with. Because, while the grieving is going on, there are so many other levels of thinking and planning going on. The family gathers and there are lots of distractions... the pockets of conversations evolve and blend as the time with family grows short and people start to leave. Did we talk about this? Did we talk about that? We need to include this person... don't want to leave anyone out... they might feel slighted... Family dynamics are so interesting... aren't they? Would love to hear some stories of recent dynamics and creative ways to help families communicate. We are all in the same boat.
Other specific options:
Goodwill: Electronic recycling (no TV's) (and will also except most everything else, however old toys can sometimes be tricky because of the lead products that China put in.)
Best Buy: TV's (pay $10 get a $10 gift card)
Home Depot: Fluorescent Blubs
Radio Shack: Re-chargeable Batteries
Auto Part Stores (most): Used Motor Oils, Car Batteries
Old (over the counter) Medicines: 1st Tues each month, 10am-1pm, no appointment needed: 245 Summit Point Dr., Henrietta, NY
I know... I know... all this is an extra step... might even be a hassel... but it sure makes you feel good when you get rid of it the right way. And... by the way... just another reason to hire us... because we will to it for you.
Happy Weekend!!! Theresa
1. Make an appointment with yourself. Choose a time of day when you are well rested & not hungry. Make sure to dress comfortably for the activity.
2. Ask a friend to help who knows you well. The kind of friend who will keep you focused.
3. Choose your project - make a plan. THEN WORK THE PLAN.
4. Bring the right tools. Plan what you need ahead of time. Jumping up and down to get the tools you need, wastes time and precious energy, and make you vulnerable to distractions.
5. Pick an area of the project that bothers you the most. Do it first. (Quick results motivate you to continue and come back another day.)
6. Set a timer. (Trick of the trade)
7. Empty the space!
- Combine like with like (box it, zip it, band it).
- Choose to keep only what you love and need.
- Give away or discard the rest immediately.
- Distribute what does not belong in that area.
- Clean as you go.
8. Make it fun. (Laugh, compete, sing, play music)
9. Quit BEFORE you get tired.
10. Track your progress and brag about it. Reward yourself.
I know it's hard sometimes to involve your kids... but organizing is a learned process... teach your children the joys of organizing and they will become adults that organize!!!
Best to all, Theresa
Come see and hear some wonderful music to relax to on a beautiful summer day in Rochester:
Tuesday 7/20: Big Band - Johnny Matt; Wednesday 7/21: Classical - Air de Cour; Thursday 7/22: Dixieland - Poppa Joe's Crawfish Stew... For more information call 770-1800 or visit http://www.seniorsfirst.com/.
Best of the Best,
Theresa
