New Year, New Motto

HELLO AND WELCOME!

From a few states, to a few Latin American countries, I’ve lived in many houses, decorated every one, and cooked in many kitchens; some nicer than others!  We’ve raised three children and now have seven grandchildren, with another one arriving soon.  Along the way, I’ve experienced so much and hopefully learned from it all.

Living in so many places, we naturally have things from everywhere, but last year I decided something had to be done.  I began in the dining room, continued in the pantry, went on to the linen closet, and I am still at it!

This year I needed a motto as a clutter-buster; something that would help us with the discipline of having “a place for everything and everything in its place”.  Doesn’t that sound wonderful!  Is it just a pipe dream for a collector like me?  Can I really clear out enough under-used stuff to give a designated place for all that is essential?

Well, I believe there’s hope!  Even for emotionally-attached collectors like myself.  Last year I was able to make a huge beginning, and this year I came up with the following motto:

DON’T PUT IT DOWN; PUT IT UP!

I haven’t written it on my little chalkboard just yet, but already this motto is helping me with my daily privilege of home-keeping.

How about you, friend?  Are you sometimes frustrated at the amount of stuff that seems to accumulate all on its own?  Do you need a motto for inspiration?  I’d be happy for you to borrow mine!

If you’re a mom with children still at home, do them and yourself a big favor and begin a clutter-busting campaign.  Make a place for those school books, papers and so on.  As home-keepers, we need the cooperation of the whole family.  Work toward organization of the daily stuff with the promise of a treat or small celebration on the weekend.

Offer small incentives for keeping things where they belong.  Not only will they be helping you keep things tidy, you’ll be helping them form a worthwhile habit.  Start small, if it’s overwhelming, but the important thing is to start!

All I ever wanted was a calm, peaceful home; but it’s hard to be at peace when there is too much stuff everywhere.  I hope you’ll join me as I continue to make our home a haven for us, our friends and most of all, our growing family.  I pray you will be inspired to begin at any level to make your home a haven you truly enjoy.

Be blessed!