The Mennobrarian

Weeding: It’s not just for gardens

If my last post inspired you to be more vigilant when it comes to organizing and ridding your home of clutter, I thought it might be fun to list some of the ways I try to keep from accumulating things that have long outlived their use. In library school, we are taught how to weed a collection of books. Weeding simply means to get rid of books that no longer contain current or accurate information, books that aren’t being checked out because no one is interested in reading them anymore, or getting rid of items (like old magazines) that are in poor condition and are now available in a new space-saving format. At home I like to weed more than just the garden.

In the closet: If it hasn’t been worn in two years, I seriously reconsider whether it has a place in the wardrobe. If it has holes, is faded, or unrepairable, it might be something that serves better cut up for another sewing project, or as a cleaning rag.

In the bookcase: Once a year my books are reevaluated for usefulness. If it’s something that has information that I need for reference and can’t get anywhere else, some degree of sentimental value, or is a particularly valuable book, it likely stays. Novels and books with information I no longer need are either passed on to others or donated to our library’s book sale. Valuable books are sold.  

In the cupboard: If you have read my previous posts, then you know I am a stickler for keeping food items current. Also, we don’t have the space for “pantry stocking” or any other such thing. With Christmas upon us, it’s a wonderful opportunity to clean out cupboards and give away what we don’t need to those who have less and could use it now. Personally, we need the space more than a dozen industrial-sized canned goods that may expire before we can get to them.

If you have a junk drawer: Consider getting rid of it. Anything you cannot identify in it is junk. Anything else might find a suitable and convenient place elsewhere in your home while freeing up an entire drawer.

In the desk: Once a year I take on the enormous task of cleaning out my desk and going through all of my files to keep paper clutter down. This is not an easy job, but the reward of not having to spend five minutes digging for blank notecards or a ruler is well worth it. It’s amazing how fast paper piles up!

And I always ask myself the questions of “Is it being used right now? If not, when? Can it be donated? Given away? Recycled? Sold?”

“Is it taking up space? Does it belong in this room? Does it still work properly?”

A final word on junk…the Lord calls us to be good stewards of what he blesses us with. I am a firm believer in keeping things in good repair and in good order. It’s a wonderful way to give thanks to a God who is so generous!  And please, let me know about any clutter-saving strategies that work for you.

<i>Untitled Comment</i>

06:27, Tuesday, December 11, 2007 .. Posted by stitchnchick

Thank you for sharing these wonderful ideas. I was just in a "weeding" mood today and went through some of my sons' old clothing to see what can be given away and what can be turned into rag rugs. :o)

Amy

Hi Amy! There is few better uses for old clothes than rag rugs. Also, with the holidays coming, it's a good time to weed toys, too.
Monica

Edited by Mennobrarian on Wednesday, December 12, 2007 at 02:51

Hi, Monica!

08:45, Wednesday, December 12, 2007 .. Posted by http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/Roseleona

Thanks for the comment!
Yes, I've often been called a "Pilgrim". At least, I was while wearing the hanging veil.Now I'm called "Amish". Another common name was "nun", or "mormon". :-( I did not like that at all!
Here's something funny. Maybe my mom already told you, I don't know.
We go to our Family Dollar a lot. Julie works there, and the man is a customer.
Man: Are those girls Amish?
Julie: Well, they used to be Midianites, but they are turning Amish now.
Man: Midianites? Hmm...?Okay.
Julie: Yep.
They have no idea I heard them to this day. :-) Midianites! I think she meant Mennonites, but she could'nt remember how to pronounce it! :-)
~Rose