Digging Out from Under the Piles

The spot that builds up clutter fastest for me is my desk. I’ve been learning to move things quickly from the collect-all-kitchen-counter. But my desk, my haven for work and communion with the Lord, is constantly piled high. It definitely is NOT inviting. Maybe you can relate? Stay tuned: DeeAnn Lee came to the rescue with some helpful hints!
What does clutter have to do with retreating from life? You need a place called “home” where you can retreat. When clutter reigns, anxiety follows close behind!

Does Clutter Threaten Your Peace?

Is it just me, or do Americans have an obsession with stuff? I’ve been helping at our community center by sorting through donations given for the thrift store. You would be shocked at how much of it is junk and has to be thrown away! Broken parts and missing pieces render things useless, yet are given for someone else to handle. I have a hard enough time dealing with my own clutter, much less someone else’s! So, how do you handle your stuff? Here are some great suggestions from DeeAnn Lee:
“I love decluttering!!! I love to be organized and to know just what I have.
If it is clothes I am taking care of (anything really) I take a trash bag, a box and hangers. I immediately put useless stuff in the trash bag, box the stuff that is good but I won't wear anymore, and hang up what I am going to keep. I put all the "hang-up" stuff together in categories: i.e. button down shirts, pants, dresses, etc.
This really works with anything. Knowing what you want to do with the stuff you don't want but is still good is the best thing. Everything that I want to get out of my house goes to ‘Helping Hands.’ Trash is easy; torn or soiled? Throw it out. It's best to go through the clothes at the beginning of each season. This year I have already given away, thrown away or hung in my closet those things for summer. It takes a little time (about 3 hours) but works great!
Best rule of thumb: find where you want everything and always put it back when you're done with it.
I keep my scrapbooking and craft things in clear plastic drawer sets and when I buy something new I immediately put it into its’ place. It helps to be able to see into each drawer and it really quickens the job.”
Thanks, DeeAnn! It is good to have a system to tackle the big and small projects alike! That saying, “A place for everything, and everything in its’ place” is starting to make a lot of sense to me!
1 Cor. 14:33 (NIV)
“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace.”
1 Cor. 14:40 (NIV)
“But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.”

Coming to Jamestown, NY!

Busti Church of God will host the CLASSeminar September 8-10, 2008! I traveled with a friend to Raleigh, NC in 2001 to attend this event for Christian Leaders and Speakers Services. And now I am thrilled to bring it to our area! You are a communicator whether you are a Sunday School teacher, organizational leader or an entrepreneur. How effective is your communication? Marita and Florence Littauer bring in a team to work with attendees one-on-one. This three day seminar helps overcome stage fright, gives speaking and writing tools and tips, and so much more. Check out www.classervices.com for more information. There is also a newly formed scholarship foundation for aid in expenses. There are businesses that would send employees to this kind of training…maybe your company would foot the bill as ongoing development? Everything you need to know can be found at www.classervices.com. Sign up today!

Sally Ferguson

sallyswords@alltel.net

979 Southwestern Drive
Jamestown NY 14701

(716) 488-1254

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