Downsizing

When I first moved here, I got rid of a lot of stuff - Craig's List and donations, because I was going from a house with 3 bedrooms and a basement to one with two bedrooms and no basement or attic. Recently, I read this book:

and it's great! (Sorry, you can't look inside unless you go to Amazon.) I am motivated to get rid of more stuff. I listed over 200 books on Amazon, and have sold almost 50 of them so far. Also, I am selling stuff on ebay. So this book came along just in time.

Tammy says, "What downsizing and simplicity means is different for everyone. The idea isn't only to count objects, but to be mindful of what you bring into your life and what you use on a daily basis." I have used the 'one in, one out' rule for a long time with clothes and household items. The areas I have problems with are books and craft items, i.e. fabric, etc.

Since I will be moving this year, probably into a smaller place, I want to downsize even more. Tammy offers some tips:

"1. Stop going to the mall. I know this sounds obvious, but it's harder than it seems, especially if you enjoy shopping. When I stopped going shopping, I stopped bringing home stuff I really didn't need or want." (I have separated shopping for stuff I need for my etsy creations from regular shopping - I have permission to shop for stuff I will resell, or make into resale items.
 Hey! - I can't NEVER shop at this point!)

"2. Sort through your stuff slowly. If you want to declutter your home, it is important to take small steps every day. Start with one shelf at a time. Undertaking a gradual transition will help you start a new routine, and it's more likely to outlast quick lifestyle fixes."

"3. Write down an extensive list of your fears. Are you worried about what friends and family with think about your downsizing and giving stuff away? Are you afraid that you will "need it someday?" Don't be hard on yourself if you have a hard time paring down."

Tammy also lives in a "tiny house" - see Tumbleweed Tiny Houses to see some of these very cute dwellings. I don't know if I would fit in one of these, especially with 2 golden retrievers! But I would like to be as debt-free and financially secure as possible. Many people are turning to these tiny houses as their lifestyles change. Just something to think about!

Going to the Phila. Flower Show on Thursday. Can't wait! I'll take lots of photos.

Love, Linda