Paper Cull and Declutter Update

I have to confess the decluttering makes me feel overwhelmed at times. The kitchen and wardrobe declutter went smoothly. I didn't sell anything. But I did donate to a program I know first sells to a local charity shop and which then sells to international used clothing sellers (Big Brothers). I do this because it then becomes part of the local economy which is better than donated items overseas (which flood but don't contribute to the local economy). More on this another time!

The paper recycling has gone well too. I got rid of all but my favorite magazines in storage. You may think... big deal... but magazines are my weakness. So I actually got rid of years of saved articles or full magazines.

I revisited my recent list of to do's for the paper plans to figure out what I could do next. Today I went through important papers and bills. Things that I mainly needed to shred. Here is the result:

1. almost 3 bags of shredded paper
2. some nonshreaded
3. a small pile of files dated 2001 to 2008 for important documents (see below)
4. an empty box
5. a small pile of garbage including lots of staples (officially hate staples)
6. a messy room I had to sweep up- it is a messy job!
7. a discovery I really really can't stand day time tv (found a news channel to keep me sane)

What did I keep?

• anything I felt was still relevant this includes,
• all tax returns with corresponding papers
• major purchase documents
• transcripts, diplomas etc
• old passports
• bills from last 2 years

These will go into the filing cabinet and I will revisit them every year to decide what to shred!

What's left with papers?

1. Convert to paperless bills.
2. End magazine subscriptions at relevant time.
3. Make a decision about magazines I kept.
4. Call local free newspaper to rerequest they stop delivering.
5. Get off junk mail list.
6. Make friendly/ cool looking "no junk mail" sign.

What are some other recent changes?

• We have started making bread! (Super yummy and simple spelt/ unbleached flour blend- will post recipe soon. Still trying to decide if I can get away with a little wheat.)
• We fixed the stove top espresso machine. And hope this will cut back on the amount of coffee we use. Also the large coffee maker will go into storage and will only be used for when we have brunch guests.
• Toiletries- I am using up bits and bobs that have leftovers in them- including shampoo, conditioner, moisturizers, and hair products.
• Caia is almost potty trained (which has drastically cut down on diapers used).