Oh boy, talk about snow---for 2 days, never had this much snow since I have lived here, Yesterday I was shoveling it off the roof while it was snowing. Flat old roof could crash in I have been told. Well today there is even more. Snow drifts on deck were 6 feet tall, shoveled as much as I could. The snow from my deck to front gate is so deep and the drifts are up over gate, I could not get out if I wanted to. It was supposed to warm up but is 12 degrees. I am so tired of this cold weather and snow. My fingers and toes get so cold, hurts when I warm them up. Did dishes, brought more wood in, talked to three friends on phone today, they were worried about my safety in this deep snow. For fun, watching olympics. Looking forward to seeing what sun looks like some day.
Roxie
Posted: 08 February 2014 - 11:54 AM
Dang and blast, a pipe is frozen again. At least this time I was able to figure how to check the pilot light on the hot water heater, and that is okay, so now I know it is a pipe. I won't know until thawing whether there is any pipe damage. Dang dang dang. No hot water, of course.
Tillie
Posted: 08 February 2014 - 11:18 AM
Good morning :)
The funniest thing about that poem is that it was taught to me by two elderly, properly British ladies. Sisters.
Last night the wind raged and made a lot of spooky noises. The cats were all nervous. Something big and heavy in the carport hoard was loudly knocked against the house. So happy that big dangerous tree is down and nothing to worry about. :D
Something I found that helps when I have brain fog is to take a few minutes to do some math or crossword puzzle. Forcing myself to concentrate on it seems to clear the fog and sharpen my thinking. ;)
This weekend I am really hoping he will do some decluttering & purging. I am in the mood to purge! Want to see clear clean expanses of open space. Oh well, at least I can dream. :D
WAY TO GO! YEA! :D for doing the daily maintenance and also for any progress tackling the clutter monsters! :D
Have a GREAT Saturday! :)
Dianne
Posted: 08 February 2014 - 10:55 AM
Aw Dave, that's so nice! Those little babies do need a little extra help in this cold. Robins showed up here a few weeks ago. They must be so confused!
Talk about confused....... I was just telling my daughter how much I appreciate the new timer she gave me for Christmas. It was making me realize that I was getting stuff done MUCH quicker than I had thought it would take. I was thinking, wow, I didn't realize the task was so much easier time-wise than I thought; this is great, I don't know why I dread getting into the project so much. I don't wear a watch so time is sort of judged by daylight.
Then she said, "Mom, I hate to mess up your enthusiasm but you're setting the timer for 15 hours not 15 minutes."
The other days I had it right. I must really be a fuzz-head this morning. Although it's kind of funny it also makes me worry a bit about what kind of other things I'm forgetting or not doing right.
Back to the floors......
Dave
Posted: 08 February 2014 - 09:50 AM
I have been avoiding trekking throught the snow in the back yard, but Mrs Dave said the birds were speaking to her this morning about the empty bird feeder. So.... Since I'd like Mr and Mrs Cardinal to keep stopping around .....
Dianne
Posted: 08 February 2014 - 09:16 AM
Tillie, I laughed out loud at the poem! I called Laura in to read it and she said, "Tillie never smelled your farts Mom, or she'd be in her grave." I have to agree, one's own farts never seem as bad. My ex seemed to save all his gas for under the covers at night. It was truly insanity producing. I would jump up screaming and raging and threatening. Finally I made good on the threat and slept with a can of Lysol. When he would fart I sprayed his ass good and left the room. (Didn't stop it.)
Today will be maintenance. Then bill paying. After that I don't know.
Roxie
Posted: 08 February 2014 - 07:07 AM
LOL, Tillie, succinct.
To all I might not mention, hello, and I'm also thinking of you.
Dianne, I totally get the overwhelmed then shut-down thing. Brain fog. Too much to deal with. It also happens to me, sometimes when I'm reading a difficult article, or instructions, or putting together something complicated. This kind of thing never used to get to me but it does now.
Yesterday I put away the clean dishes and the perishable goods, thus clearing off the kitchen counter upon which they otherwise would have stayed.
We have snow! There must be 1-2" on the ground. It looks pretty but I am so glad I do not have to go out into it.
I rescheduled the dental visit for the following week. I also sent out some email to try to organize an event for this weekend, and phoned one person who's not easily reachable by email. I should have started that earlier, but things often don't work out as originally planned. I actually have higher priority items I should be doing, but I'm having trouble getting motivated for them.
Tillie
Posted: 07 February 2014 - 01:11 PM
A poem
I had a little wind it flew around my heart and when it got below it turned into a fart now a fart is very comforting and guaranteed to please it warms the bed in winter time and suffocates the fleas
author unknown
Tillie
Posted: 07 February 2014 - 12:52 PM
Good morning :)
Hi Diane :) I'm keeping my fingers crossed that you don't have any major upsets with this cold. (((hugs)))
Hi Dianne :) We seem to only lose power during sub zero blizzards or extreme summer heat. lol, NO FAIR! ;)
Hi Roxie :) the cold weather kills a lot of batteries. Even the little batteries in phones, remotes, flashlights, etc. Even the battery in a car that is driven every day can have the battery go bad over night. There was probably nothing you could have done to prevent this from happening.
Hi everybody that I did not mention by name. You are in my thoughts! ;D
BIG WAY TO GO!!! everybody for everything you have done and are doing! :D Keep up all the GREAT forward momentum! :D
Dianne
Posted: 07 February 2014 - 09:18 AM
Hi Roxie,
I am so proud of you for getting out and getting so much done! It sounded exhausting.
I looked into a generator a few years ago. I think they needed to be outside away from the house with extension cords or run by gas. For the size I needed it was too expensive. I forget a lot but I'm pretty sure my amnesia and decision not to get one had a lot to do with feeling overwhelmed, helpless and flat out not wanting to deal. Of course by not dealing ahead of time with possible issues you're gonna have to deal with the harsher consequences of not dealing in the first place. Which I end up doing. Example of same thing/not learning/insanity?
In my area the electric company had come under much harsh criticism for the frequency and length of outages. They worked very hard to correct issues and this year I see a HUGE turnaround. Another reason for gratitude.
Today my main to-do is getting the German Shepherds in for annual checks and vacs. Dakota has not been well. He's almost completely blind now, his hindquarters are losing more strength and he's been way off his feed. Because his digestive system is so sensitive I have been trying to hand feed him small amounts of canned food with his regular kibble several times a day. He's still playful and loves his Wubba squeaker toys, The mind is still there but his poor body won't cooperate.
After that I need to make up some dog food bins. Reading about all these socks made me think it's time to deal with my hoard. So by tonight I will clear out 3 dresser drawers.
diane
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 05:34 PM
Cory posted this on another area, thought it was so great copied it here:
Just a reminder...books, videos, lectures, CD's, DVD's, websites, etc. are all just tools. To make progress, you have to first accept every current situation as it is. Next, you have to make a plan for change. Then, you have to put the plan into action and stick to it. You can read and listen to anything possible but nothing will change, unless you MAKE it change. You all have the desire because you are here. Never, never, never give up on yourself. You should be your first priority, by Cory
Roxie
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 05:30 PM
So, I told myself to get out the door this morning to go to the pet food store. Car battery was dead. Got a jump start and he told me to go get the battery tested right away in case it needed replacing.
So I went to my car dealer. I did need a new battery, which thankfully was under warranty. I got a long-over oil and filter change and they rotated the tires. Under $50. So that was good.
Then I went and bought myself two video movies and a controller gadget for playing games online (I've been using the keyboard, which is not as handy). Then I went to Petsmart and stocked up.
I was tired by then but went to the grocery store, used the electric cart, and stocked up for myself. I got all the perishables put away, got everything out of the car and into the house, and just have a couple other items to put away. That was it for me for the day! I'm glad to get it done, it's so COLD.
I think the weather was what messed up the battery. It never occurred to me to go out and run the car for 15-20 minutes every couple days. Duh. Probably I need to do the same for the yard mower, but I haven't.
Mariana, it is good to see your post. You are missed when you don't, though I'm glad you read our meanderings.
Dianne, is there any way you can plan backup for electricity outage, at least in terms of heat? I don't know the options. Maybe a generator?
Cory, thanks for stopping by and offering support. I don't know that I could ever call you, but it's nice to know you offered. I don't go to the online groups so you don't know me.
Dave, thank you for your kind words and whack upside the head. :D
Karl, go to the dentist!
Tillie, Darci, hi.
diane
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 05:00 PM
Dianne thanks for your posts and an update on what you are doing. Yes, I had the same reaction to that particular affirmation. I think if I say that when I am trying to let go of books, articles etc, it will help, knowing I can always find it again. Same with craft items I am no longer interested in, if I let them go, then I do get interested again, I can get more. I have a faulty belief I will never be able to get it again if I give it away. "I do one thing at a time" is such a great thought. Because multitasking in this fast paced world is admired, feel guilty. This affirmation gives permission to do one thing at a time. Each time I read the list, a different one pops out. Happy you found it helpful. I did bring in the wood and take garbage out to road, so cold in here even with fire going, have to just take the shower anyway.
Dianne
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 03:06 PM
Today I've been running errands, doing laundry and paperwork. No hoard cleanup, just regular activities.
I had to go out and buy a new mouse and keyboard. I finally got a wireless one and hope what the guy told me for setting up will work. I can't zoom with the old mouse anymore and have been reading the posts with my face up to computer, even with my glasses.
So that still needs to be done today and I do plan on attacking a wall in the lower hall that I have allowed to get piled with stuff again. Mostly animal supplies that I didn't want to leave in the cold garage.
Dianne
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 02:56 PM
Karl and Roxie, great job getting things done! Tillie, the cabbage rolls sounded delicious!
Mariana, thank you for your post. Sometimes I worry a bit that I am putting too much of myself out there. Then I pull back and kick myself for too much self-absorption. But I think two of the reasons for posting are to connect with others and to share with the intentions that we can offer support and hope. Thanks for saying it does help!
Dave, you're so right not to take on guilt for those who have come and gone. When I think of them I send love and positive vibes (all the New Age stuff) and believe they will follow their path in their own time. I do pray a little harder for the ones who sound so desperate and then disappear.
Cory, your generosity always touches me. As busy as you are you still offer your time one-on-one to anyone who needs it. What a blessing to us!
Tillie, your wisdom about the people who come and go is, as always, deep and comforting.
take care everyone
Dianne
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 02:25 PM
Diane, thanks for the mention of Clutterer's Anonymous. Those affirmations were wonderful. I printed them too and changed a few to fit me. I especially love the one ~ I simplify my life, believing that when I need a fact or item it will be available to me.
The bottom line philosophy reminds me Deepak Chopra's Seven Spiritual Laws of Success.
Dianne
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 02:16 PM
Diane, your mention of fear a couple days ago really hit me. I am so fearful of losing electricity in these storms. No heat, no water, lights only from flashlights. Long nights huddled under blankets, wearing coats and hats in the house. Trying to keep coats on the animals ~ dogs wanting to pull them off once they realize they're not going out and cats freaking because they can't groom. Just a disaster. I am VERY. VERY grateful that we have not lost electricity for more than an hour this winter. It isn't at all unusual to be without it for 5 days. Every night I go to bed in warmth I always deeply appreciate it.
diane
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 01:39 PM
Great reading all the posts on here. I had one pipe freeze so far, was able to warm it and get it going. Tonight will be most likely to freeze so will take a shower and wash hair today. I have to go out and get more wood and it is so cold with wind. Didn't get enough sleep due to stoking fire and checking pipes, feel good that I am willing to do what it takes to keep pipes and fire going. Max, dog sitting dog, his mom called today and we had a wonderful chat, she will come up next week to meet me and another gal for lunch. Other gal just lost her mom. We all work together in fall. It is supposed to snow alot through tomorrow, so I will do what I can to clear steps, bring wood in and more to deck, take garbage out for pickup. Threw out some expired food. Ok, off to bring in wood, garbage to street, and shower.
Tillie
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 01:25 PM
Good morning everybody! :D
Hi Diane :) My bucket list is just stuff that I have wanted to do but haven't ever done yet. I did all the BIG ones already but there are a lot of little ones still to get to. :) Good luck finding the foods that don't agree with you. WAY TO GO! doing things now rather than putting them off for later. :D
Hi Karl :) My dentist doesn't care if I have a cold or flu. He wears a mask and gloves while working and told me my dental health is too important to put off. Sorry nobody was playing along with you at the game night. (((hugs)))
Hi Roxie :) WAY TO GO! getting all cleaned up :D Cats are great motivators to get us to the store when it's their food that's running low. ;D
Hi Mariana :) I know there are others who read here but don't post. That little counter to the right shows us just how mant times people come here and the numbers reflect more than just us regulars are here reading. :D May May is not a hoarder. She is a fan of Cory Chalmers and all firefighters. She moved in with her boyfriend and we all wish her well in her new life. :D
Hi Dave :) Yes, that's true. Some people want a magic wand cure and are dissapointed that we are not a bunch of wizards & fairy god mothers. ;)
Hi Cory :) It is always a comfort to me to know that you are right there if I ever need your help. (((hugs)))
Woke up at 5:30 this morning, rolled over and slept in till 9:30! :D Planning to take a shower and get dressed. Today I have no plans and will do something fun like sewing or whatever after I scoop the litter boxes & sweep the floor.
Keep up the wonderful posts. All your writings give me hope. :)
Tillie
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 12:49 PM
My thoughts about the people who come by and then don't return.... I think they are people who are in the very begining of wanting to change. They come here and we all give them emotional support, encouragement and tell them the way this change can happen. They are not quite ready to change yet but what they heard here is in their thoughts. Change first comes in our thinking and our thoughts. My hope is that some day they will finally be ready to put their thoughts and plans into action. :)
Cory Chalmers
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 09:13 AM
Roxie and Mariana, I have always felt the same way about seeing people come and go, whether in the online support group or on these boards. It takes a commitment to change, and the determination to achieve the desired results. I am going to post one of my favorite sayings on the other thread after this that explains this completely, and simply. I wish everyone had the courage and commitment to reach deep inside and do the self work necessary to not just clean their homes, but change the behavior. For many, this is just too much. Opening old ones and dealing with the underlying issues is not an easy thing to face, and for many, shoving at back into our internal vault, and returning to comforting old habits is just much easier.
If anyone ever feels like they are struggling to stay motivated, I honestly and openly invited them to reach out to me. I am happy to help all of my friends on here, even if it is just to listen and offer my support. My email is cchalmers@steri-clean.com, and my direct extension at the office is 1-800-HOARDERS Ext. 111. Sorry, you will have to spell it out on your phone...I am hopeful that this may prevent phishing and spam software from picking phone number up off this page :)
Keep Motivated Everyone, YOU DESERVE IT![/[/color]size]
Mariana
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 08:49 AM
Dave, thank YOU for all the practical advice and strategies you have shared. And for the courage you (and all the other regulars) have shown in sharing personal experiences and situations in the hope of helping and inspiring others-- please know that it does a world of good. You are right in saying we can't feel guilt for "losing" some posters. ( I' m sure we all have enough guilt stored up already!). I do find myself wondering about a former poster called MayMay. She seemed so young and reckless from what she wrote. I do hope she has found some stability and happiness. Well, back to lurking. (Is that what the kids call it?)
Dave
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 08:31 AM
Marianna, What a nice post. Thank you for making it.
Dave
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 08:29 AM
Tillie, hope your day goes well.
Diane, Best wishes on food analyis project.
Karl, You got bed cleaned up earlier in week. Big project in your environment.
Roxie, WHOA UP lady. Do not take on guilt for universe of posters on the site. I think many posters may be looking for quick and cheap fix for situations that are neither quickly or cheaply fixable.
Way to go on personal care. Bedrock for other actions.
Mail, big/good project. As savers we can have a lot of trouble with paper. Making good grooves in your brain for other projects.
Mariana
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 08:17 AM
Hi, Roxie. Your comment in your last post about reading old posts and wondering what has happened to posters who were here briefly and then gone really struck me. I have often wondered the same thing. Some people are in such a desperate crisis mode when they discover this site that you wish you could really reach out to help with more than just encouraging words. Then, they no longer post and I am afraid it is a sign of things going from bad to worse with a sad outcome. I don't post often but always follow the posts. I feel I almost know some of the "regulars." I am so encouraged and impressed by the spirit and strength shown by so many who constantly struggle to work toward a better life despite setbacks and infirmities . Thank you all so much! Just know that there are probably many out there like me who follow your postings silently with admiration and draw strength and inspiration from your constant battles with so many obstacles. Keep up the good work!
Roxie
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 05:48 AM
Well, I finally took a bath, washed my hair and put on clean clothes. Sounds simple, but, for me, it is definitely not, especially when it is cold. That used up my energy so I did not do the grocery run. Perhaps today I can do so. I'm almost out of cat food so there's a motivation at least to go to the pet store, now that I'm clean.
I did go through an old pile of mail, so I guess that's progress.
I've been reading some old postings here and it made me a little depressed when I saw so many people who were here briefly, then gone. I wonder how they are, if I could have helped more or better somehow.
We are having below freezing weather all the week so pray for no more busted pipes. While I hate being overly warm, I equally hate being too cold.
I need to do some budget work before April, as that is when my second source of income ends. It will be a big hit. It is from disability insurance provided by my former employer. I will only get social security then plus what my son sends (which I try to save up for bigger hits).
Let's see, I think I need to end with more gratitude. I'm grateful I still have a curious and ongoing love for learning; I have a great son; I have two great brothers. My son surprised me when he and his wife went to stay with my second brother for a week--that brother is the type who can be too self-contained and off-putting. I understand the visit went great though. I'm proud of Erik for doing that.
Karl
Posted: 06 February 2014 - 03:54 AM
Tonight my housemate is ill. I haven't compared symptoms, but it seems like a reasonable guess that she caught whatever I had, which would indicate that it really was a virus rather than a food reaction as I'd originally guessed. I'm thinking I should probably reschedule my upcoming dental appointment, just in case I'm not fully recovered.
I went to a board games event, but since the rest of the group settled on playing one that didn't particularly interest me, I ended up playing one in solitaire mode instead. Three times. Kind of a bummer not to interact with anyone else tonight, but still better than sitting at home. (I couldn't have played it at home, due to lack of space to set it up.)
No progress on decluttering or housing or job search or romance.
diane
Posted: 05 February 2014 - 12:51 PM
Thanks for the note Roxie, yes did sleep last night, feels so different. I understand putting off paper writing. Procrastination is a problem for most of us I would suppose. My Masters Thesis was not getting done so I planned a trip to Japan, had a deadline, and turned in thesis the day before I left, what a stressful month that was!! It wasn't because I was lazy, or too busy, just could not get my mind to focus until there was a looming deadline. As soon as I posted I was going to print off affirmation list, was going to get off computer, then thought that is procrastination, print it off now, only took a minute, most times I would have to put it on a to do list, silly. Going to practice today doing things when I think of them. This morning put last piece of wood in stove, and thought I will have to bring more wood in soon, then got up and did it. It was so cold out, thought I will have to come out soon and sweep, shovel snow, so remembered to do it now, got it swept off steps, so cold will go back out and do more later. Lot of new snow and wind blew mounds. Below zero next two nights, then will warm. Tillie, was fun to read cabbage rolls were on your bucket list, never thought of food on a bucket list. I want to make a bucket list. I have had terrible intestinal problems lately and feel I need to do something. I have never believed in food intolerance for me, but do have to consider it. Doctors say if there is a food you can't do without, is suspect, I always have backup peanut butter and eat it on and off all day, as well as other nuts. So for today, no nuts. Just to see. Bananas are another one to not eat today. I did not have coffee for the first time today in months or years. I love the ritual of grinding beans, making single cup with cone filter, but always have stomach discomfort an hour or two later. I am sick and tired of having stomach/intestinal problems, so just for today, I am only eating soup I made yesterday, no grains, coffee, nuts or dairy, typical allergens. It has been getting to the point of being afraid to eat because of the bloating and pain, and feeling foggy in the brain, and depressed. Probably not the place to describe my bloat, but if it is a food intolerance, could be affecting my ability to declutter, and maybe will apply to someone else on here.
Tillie
Posted: 05 February 2014 - 11:33 AM
Good morning :) Have two loads of laundry out drying on the clothes line. Next storm system will be here by tomorrow. So nice to wake up to a clean kitchen and home made food in the fridge. Will visit with neighbors today and hear all about their trip down south. :) The cats are all pestering each other this morning. Some want to play and the others do not want to play. lol :D
Hi Roxie :) Cabbage rolls have ground beef & rice and I put in a bit of spicy sausage in mine. Then they simmer in a tomatoe sauce.
Hi Karl :) WTG! :D Hope your BD was a pleasant one.
Hi Diane :) Wishing you clear roads so you can get out today! :D
Hi Darci :) Are the christmas decorations all boxed up now?
Hi Dianne :) I like seeing if I can complete a task before the timer dings. It amazes me that it takes less time than I thought it would to get something done.
Hi Dave :) Hi SusanL :)
Off to get dressed now and see what I can find to do today. :)
Roxie
Posted: 05 February 2014 - 08:45 AM
Good morning, friends.
Karl, that buddy system seems to work well for you and boost you. Keep it up. You did a lot of good things in the past two days. It will be interesting to learn how your previous landlord responds to the call from your housing friend! and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Diane, I truly understand the wacky sleep bit, so I hope you got a good night last night. Despite your fears, you are trekking ahead and getting things done. I'm proud of you for reaching out to your friend. I think that is important for you to do. Also, I'm interested in checking out the two websites you mentioned. I am a procrastinator in some areas. The worst in my life was when I started and finished two term papers in college in one night. Yikes.
Tillie, WTG on the cabbage rolls and knocking something off the bucket list. What goes in cabbage rolls? I love cabbage cooked any way or even raw. So did my former Sheltie, Cato.
I did manage to do 98% of the dirty dishes. I need to put them away today and do the remainder (no room in the drain side of the double sink). I am grateful I had the energy to do that; I am grateful to be warm inside (temps are dropping again); grateful to have enough food to eat.
Karl
Posted: 05 February 2014 - 03:46 AM
Monday: I made it outside to do a couple of errands, including stopping at the bank for cash to pay the rent, and visiting a senior housing option to pick up an application. Like the previous one that I visited, they have a waiting list. A friend asked me how things were going, and then offered to call my former landlords pretending to be checking on my suitability as a tenant, so I can see if they're going to be bad-mouthing me. (I'd forgotten that he works in property management.)
I made dinner and froze leftovers for future meals, and I worked on organizing some computer data -- which I then lost in the crash alluded to in my previous post. I rebooted and finished up that task anyway, though it kept me up later than I should have been.
Tuesday: Phone calls with birthday wishes from my ex-GF (yes, we're still friends), my parents, and one cousin. I spent most of the day in my room going through a bag of papers and marking stuff to be discarded. I also finally replied to last week's email from a friend who was responding to my housing situation.
Tillie
Posted: 04 February 2014 - 10:24 PM
WAY TO GO! Love reading your posts Diane & Karl :)
Making rolled cabbage is hard. LOL So many dishes & stuff to wash up too. I ate one and it was good. Not as good as the professional chefs made when I was working for Lucas productions but not bad for my first and last attempt at them. ;) Now I can scratch this off my "bucket list". There is a lot in the fridge, so I will be eating well this week. :D
diane
Posted: 04 February 2014 - 10:07 PM
I got all dishes done and put away, counters clean. Took chicken off bones for soup, put in vegetables, made a nice big pot of soup. It tasted good, outside cooling, want to freeze some. Filled some containers with water, just in case water freezes. Organized 2 more drawers. Swept snow off deck. Called friend I am supposed to visit tomorrow. Roads are icy, so will see how they are tomorrow, she was ok with me not going if too icy. I got some work done today even though I felt like #### all day. figured I could sit and feel crappy or get some things done while feeling crappy. Happy day is over now, and will sleep better tonight. Hope you all had a good day today.
Karl
Posted: 04 February 2014 - 08:34 PM
After the Sunday chat session, billie and I stayed to do a buddy-system cleanup -- I stripped the bed and started laundry, half-heartedly scraped some visible buildup in the toilet bowl, and moved an empty bin from bedroom to patio, freeing up a little more personal space. We then planned a second one; I needed more time since my next plan was to get to a bank ATM to get cash for the rent -- but I decided it was too cold out and I aborted that plan to do some simpler cleanup instead, then used the extra time to treat myself to the hot tub before closing time.
(This was supposed to be Sunday's posting; it was delayed by computer crash.)
diane
Posted: 04 February 2014 - 03:26 PM
Glad you are doing so well today Tillie. Nice hearing from you Dianne and Roxie. Difficult day today. Snowing and cold. Did shovel steps, made a path to car and cleaned it off, cleared a path to wood pile. Vacuumed. When I don't sleep I feel like ####, so just do what I can today then rest. Just read some stuff on Procrastinators Anonymous, interesting, sounds like a great place for people aren't addicted to shopping, just can't see to put stuff away, or apply for jobs etc. Then went to Clutters anonymous, definitely applied to me. Loved their list of affirmations. I plan to print it off and see if I can incorporate them in to my thinking. Really hit home with me. Reading them made me really aware how negative my thinking has gotten when it gets cloudy/cold/short days. I have to take positive action or I am going to slide down a hill I don't want to go,
Tillie
Posted: 04 February 2014 - 11:53 AM
Good morning! :D Got a lot of rest yesterday and a good night's sleep and am all back to normal now! :D
WAY TO GO!! everybody on all your accomplishments and plans! :D
People are returning early from their get-away so I went over and got the big house all up & ready for them. They should arrive any time now.
Looking forward to making my rolled cabbage today. Always enjoy eating that dish but have never made it myself before.
Is anybody going to the Tuesday night chat?
Hi Ho, Hi Ho it's off to work I go....;)
diane
Posted: 04 February 2014 - 11:47 AM
Woke up after 2 hours of sleep, slept 2 more hours of tossing and turning, worried about frozen pipes again, got up at 4:30am. Grateful I have this site to give me encouragement to keep going. Looked for health insurance information until I found it. Paid bills online. got fire going. Today I will finish all dishes and counters. Must finish insulation--afraid of being so cold and dealing with spiders. Need to fill containers with water just in case pipes freeze this week. fear is dreadful ok, off computer and get to work
Roxie
Posted: 04 February 2014 - 04:47 AM
Diane, I get what you mean about losing yourself in anything else but maintenance cleaning. lol However, at this point the other is also important. Just commit to 10 minutes of maintenance to get a jump start.
Darci, this purging, cleaning amounts to a full-time job, but it is important not to burn out by doing TOO much, as Cory has told us. Keep that forward momentum and do as much as is still healthy for you. Maybe that is 7 hours a day or 5, I don't know. Heck I'm lucky to do one.
Tillie, I hope you are feeling better now. Please take care of yourself...we need you here, sis.
Maybe I'll experiment with color, see if I like it.
[size]
diane
Posted: 03 February 2014 - 08:38 PM
Tillie, feeling better? Hope you had a good day. I went to eye doctor today, had a good exam with old doctor. Did not buy glasses there, $456, will go to Costco and get them for closer to $200. It is going to be below 0 this week, and of course I haven't finished the entire pipe under trailer, so guess what I get to do tomorrow. Nothing like pressure to get me moving. News flash: to show how much I dislike maintenance, I worked in bedroom for 3 hours this morning, anything to avoid maintenance. I went through drawers today, and emptied 3 bins. It was amazing to see what was in drawers, now all wool sox are together, all long underware in one drawer, wondered where those winter silks were hiding. I found all kinds of forgotten things, now similar items are actually folded and put in same area. Never folded before, sure can fit in easier, as well as see what I have. this was round one in these drawers, will go back and get rid of more another day. Washed bedding, will be fun to sleep in fresh bed, that I can actually walk around more easily. Showered washed hair, ready for clean sheets. So happy I got the eye exam out of the way, it was so icy this morning, was afraid to drive, live on hill, but by 1:30 street was ok so off I went
Darci
Posted: 03 February 2014 - 12:35 PM
Am determined to get the last of the Christmas decorations in the attic today.
Dianne
Posted: 03 February 2014 - 11:19 AM
Tillie, stay warm, feel better. {{{hugs}}}}
I'm trying timing myself again with an actual timer. It's working pretty well. I'm keeping track of minutes and hours (just a quick note on a computer page) and see if I can add even 3 minutes daily.
I would love to consider this hoard and maintenance cleaning as a full time job and put in 8 good hours a day. I'm grateful that I can spread that work day over 12 hours and not have to do it all at once like a real outside job.
Tillie
Posted: 03 February 2014 - 11:00 AM
Hi :) Was planning to clean the house again today but am not feeling very well. Decided I will do a bit of sort of bathroom wipe down & vacuum the carpet. Then rest & get to feeling better. I think it's just from stress. I am so very tired.
Have a great Monday everybody! :D
Darci
Posted: 02 February 2014 - 09:41 PM
Hi Roxie, not renting room to a pastor... sorry if I created confusion. I have a pastor coming thurs to pick up boxes so I can make room in garage to empty the room that needs to be rented out.
Karl
Posted: 02 February 2014 - 06:05 PM
(Trying out a different color.) I haven't been feeling well -- nothing much to report, I guess. See you in the chat in an hour.
Tillie
Posted: 02 February 2014 - 12:22 PM
Good morning everybody! :D
What does a rodent know about predicting the weather? I always know when winter is over is when the nasty biting stinging reddish brown ants emerge from their holes. No ants yet.
Just love, love, love to read all your accomplishments and what you are all up to. Now I need to go locate a suitable tree to climb. :D
So many thoughts running around in my mind this morning. Yesterday while wearing my Steri-Clean sweatshirt at the thrift shops I was asked so many questions from people that I have known for many years. Heard many stories about how some relative of theirs hoards. Heard confessions from people that they have too much stuff and the reason is "because I might need it some day". Fear of poverty, fear of not being able to replace items should they be needed some day. Fear. Please do not allow fear to control you and take up space in your homes and lives. Yes, the unknown is spooky and the future is unknown territory, but you can and will survive it just fine without a hoard of "what if? stuff". In my life experience I have found that during hard times and emergencies I can move faster and am better able to manage/cope if I travel light. First thing to do when the s**t hits the fan is to jettison all excess. Another reason to keep stuff is for a life they wish they had, but one they do not actually live. Boxes filled with fancy expensive dinnerware and linens but they never have more than two people over for meals. Nick-nacks & doo-dads to display some day but they would have to move and buy display cabinets to do that. Clothes that are expensive but the wrong size or are too fancy to wear mucking out the hen house in. Tools to build things with but they never do any woodwork or lapidary. Craft materials that they some day may take an interest in making. This is when you really must get honest with yourself and answer truthfully, will I really ever do this? Are these things for a different life, one I don't actually live?
After I do my daily stuff around here I am off to the big house to water their house plants. Then back home to find something to do while my hoarder plays around with his telephones and stuff.
Looking forward to chat tonight! :D 5:00pm PST.
Stone Keeper to Tarzana
Posted: 02 February 2014 - 10:33 AM
You are probably better than reality TV for your neighbor!
:) :D :) :D
Dianne
Posted: 02 February 2014 - 09:59 AM
Diane, you climbing higher and higher, enough to make neighbors come out, brightened my day with a chuckle. :) I used to love to climb trees too. Our neighborhood kids had built a *secret fort* in the woods pretty high up with the help of the teenage brothers. If you couldn't climb it you couldn't get in. The way to get out was down a rope slide. Sort of like what people do now (I forget what it's called with all their fancy gear). Under the rope we put all kinds of woods debris. Just to make it funnier if someone fell off haha. My brother broke his arm and he wore that cast like a badge of honor. We did so many fun things as kids that were potentially painful if you messed up. Crabapple War was an ongoing battle as long as we could pick those hard little missiles. Good memories. :)
Roxie, our bi-polar vortex here only had a few days of up energy. He's getting ready to go down again bringing more cold and snow. But today even with mostly clouds we have one more beautiful day of springlike temps. I don't appreciate football either. When I pick a team it's based on how pretty their colors are. :)
Today I'm going to get as much done outside as possible again. Lots of exercising dogs, leave the garage doors up to warm inside and wash all the litter boxes, get truck loaded for a dump run. I'm starting to let go boxes I've saved for years thinking they'd be good for storage. Darci, Christmas is still here too. I have 2 little tress to get to the dump. The cats will miss them.
Laura loves sports and will be watching the game. So while I keep her company I'll be poking around where we sit and see how much I can toss.
Punxsutawney Phil says 6 more weeks of winter. He just wants those top-hatted men to leave him alone and quit waking him from his cozy bed. I'd put curses on them too.
Roxie
Posted: 02 February 2014 - 06:12 AM
Morning! Darci, ten boxes is amazing to me. Twenty-four is mind-boggling WTG!
Tillie, have you ever asked Mr. Tillie what his five year plan is? I'd be interested in his response. LOL Thank you for all the encouragement you give.
Darci, you will be renting a room to a pastor? Interesting
Dianne, Happy Birthday. When you said "bipolar vortex" I had such a visual image of some giant with mood swings. ;D
Diane, the thrift store bit was some clue to do something a little different, like return those phone calls (even if only to say let's get together later). You do so much for your place, time to do for YOU personally again. Lol on the 65 y.o. in the tree with baffled neighbors.
Dave, as I suggest to Diane also, time to purge an equal or greater number of items as you brought home. Do you and Mrs. Dave dance? Put on some dance music and dance something, to get your adrenaline moving for more physical work purging.
SusanL, hi friend.
I'm just checking in, but have no progress to report from yesterday. Today I think is Superbow Sunday. I hate football. However, my prediction is the Broncos. I predict every year (after I ask someone the name of the two teams) and am usually right. I go by the sound of the names. lol
