Homesteading: A Woman's Journey

Finally done!!!

Well, it is finally done!  After weeks of decluttering the house, it is finished now.  Yesterday, a guy came by and got a washing machine & 3 twin beds that we didn't need.  Just removing those things alone emptied out alot of space in the storage room.  There are still things in there that Joe will need to sort through with me.  Things that he may want to keep.  The house looks so much better.  Lots more room for Abbie to play and less for her to get into!  It has been such a blessing and so freeing.  The only things remaining in the home are the actual things we use and need. 

It is surprising how much stuff people can accumulate, thinking that they need the items or need to hang on to them.  Not realising that you don't really have to "have it all".  I usually go by a general rule:  Unless it is a seasonal item, such as winter clothing, if it isn't needed in 6 months, then you don't really need to keep it.  Seasonal items also get sorted through as their usefulness changes over time.

Now, as I look around the house, instead of seeing the clutter and feeling over-whelmed, I feel at peace.   I am the type of person who just doesn't function well in clutter.  I can handle the little things like  afew toys laid about, but a lack of organization and order in the home just sets me on edge.

I am thinking ahead.  With the house organized and easy to maintain, I will have alot more time to spend playing with Abbie and also for other pleasant activities.  Now, when Abbie is napping, I am able to sew or crochet.  I am building up a supply of headcoverings and other items that I am going to be selling.  Also some items that I am exchanging in swaps.

I love participating in exchanges with other Sisters.  Having the house organized is making it easier to find time to work on them.  This is such a blessing as I find alot of relaxation in creating new things through sewing & crochet.

There is much to be gained through the pursuit of a simple life.  The greatest of them being peace in your heart & the precious increase in time to devote to your family.

Untitled Comment

10:11, Tuesday, July 24, 2007 .. Posted by Patti

I don't function well in clutter either. It makes me nervous.

We are definitely a society that values having too much stuff. Can you imagine if we had to load all of our stuff in a covered wagon to move someplace!! Thinking about the pioneers really puts it into perspective, doesn't it? There really are only a few things that are necessary.

Good for you for getting rid of unnecessary stuff!

Blessings,
Patti