HOW TO BEAT THE NEW YEAR BLUES!

Hi Guys,

Wow,  it is the first day of 2013 as I write this.  Being that at the time I write this I think it will be that date that gets put on the blog, which is far from what actually happens in most cases.  Due to the time lag this could well end up saying it was done the day before!  I do believe it is the cyber space leprechauns messing with our heads personally.

Anyhooo, re-read my post from last year's 'Impossible New Year Resolutions'.  How revealing!  Note to self:  must remember what I have written in the past.

Well, my last year's resolution was to be kind to myself and not stress about the act of decluttering, but still stay focused regardless of time available.  Well, it worked!

Who knew a resolution could actually work.

First clue is to make it simple and achievable.
Second clue is to actually actively go about the resolution during said year.

Looking back now, I am so much further ahead now than I thought I would have been back then.  Hope that makes sense to you all.  I didn't even envisage myself that day back then in 2012 to be in my new bedroom by the year end.  That has been a surprising plus.  Have now been in my new room for the last 3 nights and has been very surreal.

I have room to move.  I have all my clothes put away neatly.  I like it.

I now have an abundance of light.  I like that also.

There is still just one small niggle though.  I wanted to make this room nothing like my parents had it.  There is still one piece of furniture that was theirs and still has to be moved out and only then will I be totally at home in my new space.

Funnily, I have no problem with their stuff in the rest of the house.  Just my bedroom.  Hmmm, food for thought there.  For another time.

Here is some of my elements to make this space mine.

And instead of curtains till I can get the new cream roll screens this screen will do the job nicely.

It throws colour around the room in the afternoon sun.  Just delightful.

This is Missy's new spot.  Which will be positioned better and is right at bird's eye view of where the birds gather.  She will enjoy this immensely.  Here she is already onto it.

Christmas this year was what I am referring to as the Trifecta.

Christmas Eve was just the best with my 2 plus one.  Being that last year we went to another Minister's service this year has us going back to the usual church.  The Minister who I loved very much that we went to be last year sadly passed away a few months later.  Got to see a few people I hadn't seen for some time. Then back to Aija and Keith's home to celebrate, eat, laugh, eat some more, open presents, fit some more food in and laugh some more.  A truly magical night.

Here are some of the magical moments.  Nothing better than Latvian carols on Christmas Eve.

 

Met a long lost relative on my Mum's side.

The cooks were rather spunky also and very accommodating with wearing the christmas gear.

The supervisor.

Hard work being the supervisor!

As you will see we never did replace the Christmas tree from last year that went kaputsky.  Had this backup without the tealights as an interim.

Presents for all happily received...

My three...

We three...

Me messing around with selfies!  What was I thinking.  Obviously, not.

Next day was visiting my old neighbour as I mentioned in the previous blog that my neighbour brought up about our 'bet' the minute she saw me.  And you know the rest from the previous blog.  Then onto spending the day with Keith's family.  What a wonderful day.  Just enjoyable all round.  No stress.  Total relaxation.  Good conversation flowed.  Pure joy.  Then safe and sound much later that day at home that very same day.

The day after that was spent with my children's Godmum, Sue and turned out to be one of the most relaxed Boxing Day Picnics in a long time.  Something was in the air.  We started out at the park, but later on the gusts of wind got us back inside her unit.  Either way is fine by us as we make do with whatever year in year out.  This one was especially magical.  Hence, Trifecta.

Didn't get loads of presents as I don't need more 'stuff'.  What I got was the most valuable present of all and that was time spent with my wonderful loving family even though we are few in numbers, I felt full in abundance, to the brim, use whatever saying one could come up with and I got that in volumes.  Real loving precious time with my family.

How blessed am I?

As for the New Year's Eve Resolution, I have decided to make an extra special effort to now complete this journey by the end of 2013. It is an ongoing Resolution.  You know the one.  The gift that just keeps on giving.  Well, this is the resolution that just keeps on going.

Thirteen is a lucky number in our family.  It has a history that bodes well for us. I must make the most of this number.  All my past kin will be behind me I am sure.

Here it is.

I will get the remaining 'stuff' under the carport sorted or dealt with in one way or the other by the end of 2013.  Done in a timely fashion prior to winter setting in as that is when things come to a halt.  Then turn my attention during the winter time on the shed and even toss in the attic to be sorted through.  But shed first.  What ends up in the attic will only be the items we need annually or for things like camping that is needed sparodically in my case now and items of sentimental value to me.  These I will keep to a few rather than the crap load I had before.

To cement this resolution I will if I don't get this done donate $100 to a charity of my choice.  Again a win win either way.  This should get me going.  If I do get it done then I will give myself a treat like a body massage and what the heck monies still to a charity.

Strangely enough I see this as now doable.

Today the study gets worked on.  Over the next few days we move the computer and set it up properly from the word go.  There will be room to move withing the home.

I will get the house whisperer back to help me with the kitchen, which really is a nightmare.   I will have to get the lounge set in a more flowing style.  So much to do, but the focus will always remain getting rid of the 'stuff' under the carport via a not stress method.

Life is way to vulnerable to allow much of it to be wasted on feeling dragged down and stood on.  Make what you have work for you not the other way around.  Mine used to work for me till the balance of scales went out of kilter relatively overnight.  When that happens you better be ready for a roller coaster ride.  Thankfully, even though it has taken time to get here, here I am beating the bulge of the weight of 'stuff'.

Have to do a recalculation of cubic metres of stuff gone.  Maybe I am further ahead than I give myself credit for.

Any way, I have managed to beat the New Year's Resolution Blues by one simple method - being kind thy self and being freaking realistic about my Resolution!  The trick is to take the 'pressure' factor out of the equation.  Instead add in an 'enjoyment' factor.  A small enjoyable reward at every milestone to remind yourself how well you are doing.

It will take time, but at least that time will be better spent not stressed and able to enjoy the people and life around you while you go through this process more than not.  That is the end goal.

Get there and get there in a positive state of mind without too much pain.

All the things I have offered to help one through are just tools.  Many experts use many of these tools as well.  Most of what I am saying is not unique or even new or WOW revolutionary.

What I feel is that the stigma attached is what holds everyone back from getting it done.

 Look, I have hung it all out here in this blog in the hope first to help myself get through this process as well as destigmatise this situation and then if I get lucky help others who find themselves drowning in stuff and want to get out. I hope and I mean this hope that this helps out there.

This process wont happen overnight or even start in most cases due to the shame attached, but it only takes one to start for the pebble to drop into that water and that ring to ripple out.

 I am waiting for that ripple effect.

Too many people suffer unnecessarily in fear of being found out to be a closet hoarder.  Hey, some people call it collecting.  But if I can help shave some of that shame away then most would feel confident to get started rather than hide behind closed doors.

I will state here and now that it is a hard slog, but well worth persisting in.  One that I am now glad I for whatever reasons started when I found myself drowning in clutter.  If I hadn't I would still be living within masses of stuff and feeling like I couldn't breathe.  I would still feel overloaded to the extreme.  I still do feel overloaded.  Just not so deathly any more.

I started small and slow.  It has taken the last 6 years of all those smalls and slows that have now added up to be a huge amount of cubic meters of unnecessary stuff gone out of the way and out of my life.  Free air space has something to be said for it.  The difference is massive.  That is why photos are important.  They do show you how much you have done and achieved.  We forget how far we have come without the visual reminder.  Even if the photos are only For Your Eyes Only, I would still have them for postitive motivation and affirmation.

When you do make that 'Resolution', just remember to make sure it involves being kind to yourself and is  realistic.

In some cases it is perfectly fine to strive beyond.  But in this case when you are doing this without support in most cases this is the way to making it happen.  If you fail by making it too impossible to achieve then one retreats and licks their wounds and says no way I am doing that again. Only natural if you ask me. This is what must be avoided at all costs.  This is why I am writing this blog to say 'slow and steady' in this case is a good thing and one that will help one achieve the end goal in time no matter how long that time takes.  Better slow than never.

I am proof that it works.

I don't have a film crew and a crew of strong people to help me do it in a weekend.  I don't have any magic fix being thrown my way.  I also don't have to deal with the trauma those shows do to these people either.  

As it goes out you slowly take note and it will begin to feel good and the natural thing to do.  There will be moments that you get down, especially when you get long hold ups, say for example a long illness or a job that takes you away.  Don't worry that is taken into account in the 'slow' part.  You just pick up and start again when you can.  Nothing stops this method other than the person who is doing the doing.

I my case when I find myself not having done any tossing for a while say a week or two or lord above three, I use this blog to write it publicly in order to force myself to get the things done that I want to achieve.  That is my method.  There are others ways as well.  It may be talking to your doctor or a close friend.  No matter the method, better to have something that you know will kick start you once more for then nothing again will get done.  But this works well for me as then I have to get it done.  Which ever way to get yourself going again then do it.  I can be a massive procrastinator and that is why I put it out there publicly as a way to motivate myself to stop the procrastination.

Now that I know this 'slow and steady' resolution method works for me.  Here is to 2013 folks.

I was actually feeling rather low for some weeks now due to losing the job.  But now that I can see I haven't wasted my 'down' time.  This in itself has brightened me up somewhat.  I still need a job, but at least I am utilising my time and to good use.

The first day of the year is a day for family and will see both my children.  This then sets up my year to be complete. They are the key that drives me.  If they are overseas at that time well a phone call will suffice, but in the meantime we see each other.

My wish is to make my home the way it used to be.  Homely.  Welcoming.  Open.  Warm.  Friendly.

Not much to wish for is it now.

Here is my old bedroom minus my double bed and with the table for the computer on its side ready to get set up.  Next blog should show you the end result.

This is where the bed was.  You can see how squished I was into such a small space.  My choice to move into this room was that Mum was still with us and I had moved in to be there 24/7 to care for her in order to stop all the massive driving around I was doing.  Even though the room was the smallest the bonus was the view is gorgeous.  And that I needed.  To be filled with the goodness that the world and nature had at the time when I moved in back then was important what with all the horror my other older sister was actively creating back then.  It was my coccoon.  My sanctuary.   This room served me well.  It is only now my Mum's and other older sister Sylvia's words of apologies for what they left me with now hold more comfort as I grow stronger.  It is time.

You cannot see it very well, but the Magnolia is massive and is green through summer, bare through winter and an explosion of flowers for but a brief moment in spring till the big winds come along.

The table is one I used in a small flat that converts from a coffee table to a dining table.  It has been neglected for some years and will need a light sanding before I set up anything on it.  My daughter used it during her high school years and did a huge amount of drawing on it hence the wear.   Planned to sand and stain many a year ago.  Better late than never as seems to be my catch cry now.

Trust all are in good spirits for what 2013 will bring.  Above all else here is to a better and brighter year ahead than the bloody last one was.

Cheers folks,
Anita who is now more happily well on her way.

Mission Bedroom accomplished! Now for the rest of the house!

Hi Guys,

Yes, I am finally in.

Got to sleep in my new bedroom, albeit incomplete, but sleep I did.  Achieved with the help of my daughter and her boyfriend who helped me with the heavy moving.

Now to only put in said room what is needed and liked and make it just perfect.  The next two days will be spent pottering around achieving just this.  The blinds/curtains will need to be updated to match the rest of  the room.  I will only get a chance to deal with this once I get the next job.

After this weekend will be setting up the study.  This will take some shuffling around with pieces of furniture, but I am sure it will be a very workable and enjoyable space.  Then and only then will we have our Dining Room back.  Oh, joy of joys.

Then to move the furniture around in the Lounge Room one more time to be more user friendly.

It has been a big year.

One that has had it's many and various ups and downs.  No matter what I still managed to throw more stuff out.  I still gave away a massive amount of clothes and other items.

Unfortunately, I still lost my bet with my old neighbour that I made over 5 years ago!

Looking back now I wonder what was I thinking.  Oh, I wasn't as I was brain dead and stressed to the max from all the years of care, lost loved ones, contesting of the Will, children, Centrelink, work and everything else on top of all of that.

At Christmas time I visit my old neighbour's home every Christmas morning (now 17 years) and the first thing she said was ... 'well, who won?',,,, I knew instantly what she was eluding to.  It has always been at the back of my mind.

When I moved into Mum's home to take care of her all those years ago, my then neighbour helped me with some last items to be moved from the old rental and saw that ALL my stuff was stuffed to the gunnels under the Carport and she was also aware there was stuff of Mum's over in my now new neighbour's garage.

She shook her head when she saw what I had to live with and in.  She said at the time that I wouldn't get it done within the 6 years of settling the Will, which I settled a whole 18 months early by the way.  I remember thinking a bet might put a bomb under my bum to get things done and help keep me motivated.  Either way it was a win/win for me as I saw it.  So there and then we made a bet that in, and I decided 5 years, that I could clear the carport.  This last October was the 5 year mark.

Well, I could have been clever and cleared my neighbour's garage after the carport or the pellet in the factory later.  However, it was important not to impose on the very people who were so open heartedly helping me so I left the carport to last.  Hence, the pellet at the factory was done and dusted sometime back now and the boxes and furniture in the neighbour's garage were all cleared awhile back also with the exception of one item - the spare fridge that will go in the shed once I have cleared that also..

Basically, all that is left is what is under the carport and what is in the attic and shed.  As for the carport 75% of what was under the there has been dealt with so far, but the bet was it had to be all gone.  Alas, that was not achieved.  However, I have downsized by at the very least 50% of the original volume if not more.  It has taken many give away's to charity, skips, trips to tips and bin nights to get there.

Now the camel's back is broken and I am well on my way to the downhill run of this marathon.

Due to losing this bet the wager was that the loser had to take the other out to dinner.  For me this was still a win/win.  I may even suggest to my friend we go for an afternoon spa instead.  Forget the food and have an indulgent massage.  This thought would never have occured to me back then.  Hope she says yes.  After all, I will be the one to pay the bill.  This will have to wait till I am re-employed, but I am sure we will have a good laugh and discussion about my plight with maybe yet another wager on when I will finish with what is left.

I must say with the bet at the back of my mind it did help keep me going.  Not overtly, but it was always there.  Like she was watching over me sort of.

In the end, she was still amazed at how much had gotten done.  This helps to show me that I am on the right track and even if I cannot always see the progress, progress is still slowly being made and with each step it accumulates and with more being done before you know so much more has gone and bitten the dust.  When you have to live amongst the process it is difficult to 'SEE' exactly what you have achieved.  Nice to be reminded how well one is doing and that you have not stopped and have not wallowed and have not given in or given up.

The Domino effect has begun.  Will post more in the new year with some before and after photos.

One thing for sure is Missy made the most of the new bed within minutes of the set up.  Here she is after I interrupted her peaceful slumber!

The lumps on either side of her are my long pillows as I am a side sleeper and are very comfortable.  Missy obviously agrees.  She does look comfortable, doesn't she.

Still have to get the bedside tables, lamps etc set up and later a bedhead.  But till I have a job that will just have to wait.

Just taking one day at a time right now.

To all those who are going through a similar situation to myself don't give up.  Just decide and get started even if it is one item or one shelf.  Start small.  Something is better than nothing.

I allowed myself 'time' in which to achieve my end goal.  Do yourself a favour and do the same for yourself.

Take photos so that you can look back to see what you have achieved even if it is 'For Your Eyes Only' to help keep you motivated and know that you are getting the job done even if no one else can see it.

I am glad that I decided to be kind to myself and live a life that mattered with my family rather than allow the 'stuff' dictate my life to me.  This is all important as life will and does keep on going regardless and one still has to pay the bills and be apart of your children's lives.  The 'stuff' can wait.  It ain't going nowhere!

I am so very glad that I decided to go about this massive task with humour.  Without a good laugh I am not sure where I would be by now.  This one is entirely up to the individual, but I highly recommend this one.

Lastly, to lessen the stress on oneself when starting and going through this process, remember, you are in charge not the 'stuff'.  No matter how overwhelming your situation is, whether it is the garage or that closed door to 'that' room, you are still in charge of it's ultimate outcome.

Hope you all who celebrate Christmas had a wonderful time with family and friends.

Wishing you all a safe New Year and that 2013 will be better than the last one.  It sure couldn't get any worse for myself.  Only up up and away.

And as for the 'stuff' more will be up up and out in 2013!

That and a job would make me happier.

Cheers to one and all
Anita

Time to ponder!

Hi Guys,

Had dinner last night with the most delightful ladies.  We all had a grand old time and much laughter.  Such a tonic at a much needed time.

One said she had read about the bedroom and I thought to myself had I steered from my original mission of this blog, which was to take away the 'shame' people feel or made to feel for being in what is a very tough situation for a multitude of reasons. 

The mission initially was to destigmatise the word and what is attached to 'Hoarders'.

Here is my very first blog....

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Hoarder's Helping Hoarders!

Hi Guys,

This is the first and official opening of a hoarders blog...  Will try and get this to link into Facebook eventually, but will need time to get to that. 

In the meantime, I think it is time for those of us who have 'too much stuff of any sort' to place a positive spin on the name or word 'HOARDER'! 

Most of the time no one would know who you are or even know you like to keep or collect or find it just that little bit harder to let go.  However, when the scales tip too far one way due to some unforseen event/s - then every one feels entitled to let you know what they think.  Do I go into someone's home and say 'Ohhh, how sterile' or 'Hmmm, don't have much!' or a glance that just lets you know.  Hell no!

In light of this, it is time to destigmatise the word 'HOARDER'. 

There are many levels of hoarding and many ways to help without making one feel ashamed.  We can have fun you know.  So here is a hoarder who wants to support other hoarders through the maze of unloading in a fun positive manner.

After all it is just a process.  For some it will take longer than others and we all don't have a TV crew to sweep in for a weekend and voila - instant no mess!  It just doesn't happen that way in the real world.

My favourite quote in the regard is "This is not clutter!  These are my antiques!'

I was trying to think of positive names for a group where people could share their stories and support each other through a difficult period of 'decluttering' etc.  Here are some of them...

- 20 box your way to feel unloaded.

- How to let go without feeling guilty!

- How to outwit the hoarder within...

- Hoarding got me here - Now how to get out!

- Is your hoarding getting the better of you?

- If a person from a 100 sq home had to move into an 11 sq home - does that mean they instantly become a hoarder also?        -  this one is a tad long and a work in progress...

The reason for this blog is to show that those that don't keep things that those that do are no different in many ways to them.  I myself cannot understand minimalism.  It just doesn't compute.  It all started from having lots of stuff myself, then storing others gear and then moving in to look after a parent who also had an enormous amount of stuff kept over the years along with their Mum's stuff after they passed on along with some other deceased guys gear. 

Now how the hell do you minimise from 5 households down to one manageable unit in a small home while living in it and looking after a gravely ill person and children to boot with no support.  No mean feat, but have managed to unload alot so far, but much more to still go.  But this has not happened without heaps of angst and heartache over the last 4 years. 

Most of my friends understood to a point and were wonderful.  But I can only expect or accept so much help from them as they have their own lives to lead.  There comes a time when you have to take charge and when that time comes you do know it.

I love giving and knowing that it may or will help others makes it that more easier to purge and release.  I even took to taking a photo of some precious thing that had a fond memory attached in order to let the item go.  Those in the ravages of these current floods have no choice in the matter - the waters swept their lives from under them.  So I plod on toward that picture perfect home I have in my minds eye.

I hope that this will help others to know that we shouldn't feel ashamed.  That we just feel things differently and what is so wrong with that.  Yes, if what you have is rotting - then that is not good.  Yes, if what you have harbours rats, cockroaches and mice etc - then again that is not good also.  Yes, if what you have means you or anyone cannot get around to do your usual daily activities etc - then once more that is not good. 

It is before anyone gets to this point that I am talking about and wish to debunk.

Feel free to chime in and comment - hopefully more in the positve or witty vane.  This is meant to be helpful not harmful.

I am now into 4 years of decluttering.  It took only a few years prior to that to tip the scales of imbalance and then it was an avalanche. 

The way in is just as hard as the way out.

How I started was really quite simply - one box at a time - one shelf at a time - one corner at a time.  Then cry a little more - then one more box a day later - another tear - another shelf  - another day and slowly slowly it starts to change. 

While one is in the process of decluttering you do get into what I call a 'holding pattern' of looking as if in a bigger mess.  This is part of the process.  It means things are moving on out.  For some it seems important to handle an item once.  This is good if one can achieve it, but I don't dwell on it if I don't get to do that as I know it is on its way out anyway.  So I look at the positive rather than beat myself up over it.

It is a process that takes time...  and everyones timeline will vary...  it is when others look on and perceive that you 'look like' you have done nothing when in fact you have been a very busy beaver that the hurt comes into play.  You know you have filled that rubbish bin with precious memories, but appears no one else believes you.  This is where you have to keep on like a Berger Paint and just slog on and one day the doubters begin to see the light.  Literally!

Again, it is a process...  again, one that takes time and perserverence against those that keep on putting you down. 

There is so much more that I could share right now.  I shall leave that for another day.  Even if I chat to myself - then my 'self' will get to finish the job I started with this blogs support, help and assistance.  And if anyone joins in on the way then all the better.

Cheers from an almost liberated hoarder

Anita

WOW, takes me back to how I felt way back when just reading this.

What a difference time makes.    
 
I am now almost 6 years into this journey.  Once I made that decision to just get the job done I have never looked back.  Looking back I can see I have done much.  But if you look at just now you would not know.  I chose to do it slowly to be kind to myself and not stress.  I don't cry as much anymore.  However, right now due to life issues I am finding it difficult and to read this and reflect on how I was just reaffirms that I should stay positive and keep on using humour to motivate myself.

This blog was intended to get me started.  Once written, then out in public ... well ... you just have to do it.  If time lapses too far inbetween blogs it just served as a timely reminder to get one's skates on.

It took me a long time to include photos as I was so down about the situation I had found myself in.  Wish I had a photo of what it was like at the beginning now so all could see how far I actually have come.  But I remember and that is important.

On reflection the worst part of going through this is the waiting when you need assistance from others to get to the next step.  This is not a complaint, but rather an observation so that those who are or find themselves in a similar situation to myself are aware that there will be many 'stop start' times to deal with along the way.

Looking back on what I wrote still rings true.

As for what I would call this blog now I probably should have called it along the lines of:- 

'Happy Decluttering' or

'Decluttering Made Easy'.

But, I am glad I chose the more difficult of titles and just put it all out there.  A hoarder trying to help other hoarders throught their 'stuff' with dignity, self respect and humour and that it is OK.  Nothing wrong with that.

I remember that I was getting a bit peeved with all the so called TV experts helping those with these issues and not ever having the problem or issue themselves.  And in doing so stressing the poor people even more the very ones they were supposed to be helping.

I noticed over and over again, it was never a person who had the problem or issue themselves out there blustering bullet points.  Why could it not be someone who had gone through what was happening to them, who could understand what the many reasons were, who could relate why an item meant so much, who could assist in a variety of ways to let go without the massive stress.

All this can be done, but done with kindness and compassion.  Unfortunately, this takes time.  Something most are not willing to give in this day and age.

I had seen on a show recently where a room - just one room - to fix, as it was overloaded and beyond useful.  However, they did the obligatory rubbish, recyle, keep, donate piles and a skip.  Amazing how much gets tossed into that skip.  The person whose precious stuff he had kept being so gleefully tossed ever so quickly without time for him to digest what was happening or the ability to have a say, was sifting through the skip only for the presenter to come over and roll their eyes around.  Now was this necessary.  Hell no.  To me that was just sheer rudeness.

Here is this guy who was surprised by the family and still allowed them to go ahead due to pressure.  The events would have been rushed all in one day and in amongst the tossing would be family memorabilia and stories and his blood pressure would have been rising and going through the roof.  He should have been shown more respect than that.  Just because the TV Show was doing a 'do over' does not mean they had the right to stomp on someone’s emotions so abruptly.

This presenter and crew were in and out in a day to then leave the aftermath behind.  What's with that!  What if some crew barged into their home and went for it.  Nah ... simply just not right.  What got me was the presenter rolling their eyes at this poor bloke who had no time to prepare for this, nor allowed the time to see where his 'stuff' was going due to being done so quickly! 

As well intentioned as this may seem or appear, no one would like it being done to them.  And to be done so publicly.  These kinds of shows just help perpetuate the stigma, the shame attached to this problem.  Hence, why people hide it and don't discuss it, which then means they cannot do anything about it till it is too late and it becomes overwhelming and too much to handle. 

Time to stop the put downs, the assumptions and the attitude about this subject.  Not all hoarders get beyond this point.  But a life event can do just that and push anyone over to being overwhelmed, even a non hoarder.

Life is finite.  We do not know what lies ahead or around the corner for us.

I will get what I can get done. 

After all, I am sorting through 3 generations of 'stuff', most should have been dealt with long before, but left to the next poor bod to deal with due to unforseen circumstances or abilities, which just so happened to be me.  I am trying not to leave it all to the next generation, my children.  However, time will dictate that.  Hope to get this job done before I am done!

It is the history that is important for me.  There are papers that need to be kept that has some of our families tree and such from long past, along with photos that I can hopefully place names to faces.  That way it will be easier to pass on for those that one day will want to know or show interest in.

I am a somewhat emotional character and would rather remember than to forget where I came from.  The stock, the courage, the tenacity, the stories of those before.  This is what I treasure most.

My stories among other family members will be added.  I will either fade away or be an interesting character to some future generation.  Who knows.  But at least I will have made it just that little bit easier to find once I am done.

Then comes the question after I do get this all done, 'what then?'

As the character Scarlett O'Hara said in the movie, "After all... tomorrow is another day."

I will ponder on that when I get there.

Cheers all,
Hope I didn't bore you all with my review!
Anita

'Operation Bedroom' is done! Well!! Almost!!!

Hi Guys,

Cannot believe I have actually worked on the bedroom 3 days in a row!

Something to be said for writing about doing something publicly and then having to do it!

Got stuck into painting the cupboard doors yesterday, but the fumes got to me.  Had visitors, otherwise may have finished.  Well, maybe not.  With the one door and skirting still to go.

The visitors helped me put the pelmet back up.  Keith along with Zigis.

Here are the cupboard doors in all their new glory.

Pretty much sums up what I got done yesterday.

As for today I started with the bedroom door.  The fumes were unbearable.  More visitors which was welcomed by me to have a break from the fumes.  It was my wonderful next door neighbour with some grocery goodies to tied me over.  How did I get so lucky to have such wonderful, kind and considerate neighbours.  She is not only my neighbour, but a dear friend as well.  I am truly blessed and thankful.

You will notice that I had painted the surrounds to the doorway, but this is the before shot of the bedroom door pre-painted.

The colour had gone this aged yellow.

Here is the after photo.

Amazing the difference one coat makes and almost like a mirror!

I pressed on with the skirting.

The skirting is very thin as you can see from the photos.  I painted the top of the curve first and with a very wide putty scraper placed that against the lower skirting and pushed down the carpet and painted the thin side using the scraper as a barrier to the carpet. 

Having to work flat on the floor I kept getting cramps in the foot and calf as the going was slow.  It was tedious work, but well worth it.

I am done.  Finally. 

Why am I not overjoyed and bursting with happiness! 

Because I still have the chest of drawers to finish that has that same aged yellow look and needs a lift big time.

Then to fix some of the bits I wrecked on the aubergine wall.  Have to get a small paint pot for that.

Then vacuum the floor.  Move the furniture that I am keeping in there.  Next get help to move the bed into said new room after it has aired out a bit more.  Cannot afford a bedhead just yet, but that can wait.  Then organise the old bedroom and convert into a study and sort out the furniture from the garage over the road with my few last pieces left in there.  This will make my other neighbour very happy indeed.  Must make room for the old grammaphone that I kept of Mum and Dad that they bought in the early 60s.  Very retro.

This will mean a load of work as the Dining Room will have the computer vacating it's pride of place there to be moved to the study to make way for civilised eating habits once again in this house in a very very long time. 

So much more to do.

But I am getting there.  That I am.

This morning I had a call from a friend I thought I had lost.  She had sad news about one of her friends that I knew via her and had just died this morning (10/12/12) from the cancer she had so valiantly fought for sometime. 

Life is too fragile to take for granted. 

This was bittersweet as I got the chance to once again say welcome to one friend to only have to say goodbye to another.  Farewell.  Thanks for the hugs.  So glad that I bumped into you only a month or so ago at the hospital.  I was on my way in and you were on your way out and looking so happy. 

Dusi saldi Denise.

Taking time out to remember those we have loved and lost and still hold in our hearts so dearly.

Till next installment
Anita

How to 'go with the flow' when hit by a massive curve ball!

Hi Guys,

Been sometime since I last wrote, let alone do anything with my bedroom.  I am not as yet in there and still no where near doing so.

What happened you may ask?

Good question.

Well the day job I had on 15 November was pulled from under my feet abruptly.  I am not at liberty to say much at this moment due to this being a public space, but one of my clients said it quite aptly by stating 'asked too many question and now you're gone!'.

Nice pre Christmas present eh!  Very considerate.  Have no idea how I will get us through the next 2 or so months as this is not a good time to be out of work and pm top of that here in Victoria there are so many being retrenched as we speak.

Amazing how at the interview of a job you get told and promised one thing for the goal posts to be changed not long into the run.  Due to this, I have been extremely down and preoccupied at finalising my time and making sure every 'T' was crossed and every 'I' was dotted.

However, this is how I have been feeling.

It could be worse!

I am now free as a bird and looking steadfastly for anything other than a broker company to work for and even considering short-term contract work and will even go as far as to ask the employment people to help retrain me in another area to open up my employment options.  Have had a couple of almosts and do have an option or two that are not ideal, but help to a point. 

In the meantime, I am trying to get motivated to finish the bedroom. 

Today, I started the sanding of the skirting, cupboards and doors.  Then there will be the chest and the filing cabinet.  So much dust.  Will have to get it done as after that the cleaning will be massive.  Then and only then can I finish the easy bit of painting the enamel. 

If it wasn't for the dust, I don't think I would drag my feet so much.

How many of you out there hate the dust that this type of work involves.  Well, I have both my hands up as to how much I detest the dust.  And this is but one room!  With how many more to go!!!  Yeesch.  No wonder I have been procrastinating.

But, I cannot let the loss of my job get in the way. 

I must forge ahead. 

I must not steer away from my mission. 

I must stay on task.

Can you hear how I am trying to convince myself?

I am half way through the skirting and the cupboard doors done.  Did I mention the dust?  So much dust.  Just taking a break from the dust.  Quick cuppa tea and a good lie down ... no, forget the lie down ... and back to finish the last part of the skirting and that last door.  Then the drawers and filing cabinet.  Again, trying to convince myself.

Doesn't help that it is 40 degrees celsius here in Melbourne.  Storms are brewing overhead with hot northerly winds.  The worst kind.  Just washed the car yesterday.  Murphy's Law.  Should have realised the moment I washed the car that there would be dusty rain shortly after to undo all that hard work.

Back to the grindstone.

Tick Tock.  Tick Tock.

Welcome relief in a cool change came just as I started on the second round of sanding.  All skirting now sanded along with that last door.  Even managed two sides of the drawers.  A little bit more and then I can dust and vac all that dust so I can paint.  Just wish the prep work didn't take to long.  Just a little bit more to go.

Will write again asap after I have finished the painting.  Now that should spur me on.

Still may be in that room by Christmas or at the very least before 2013.  We can but hope.

Cheers all,
Anita

Consider me well and truly shoved!

Hi Guys,

Nothing like stating something publicly to get one going. 

Been a while since I renovated an entire Rosebud house (inside and out) with my friend Ali S.  I so enjoyed the wrecking side of the job.  But each part had it's joys and pitfalls.

Forgot though how long the prep work takes.  And as for enamel painting.  Far out.  The arm and back is buggered and I am only half way. 

Had to make a start on the windown frame before the helpers arrived as I wanted the windows to be dry to close.  So started with the top half.  May even get the pelment back up as well.  I might get lucky. 

Being white on white and in the sunlight you may not see the difference, but boy what an instant lift it does make.  Will try for a better shot later on when I do the doors where you will get to see the full impact.

In the meantime, my cherubs have arrived and have started cutting in on the feature wall.  We may have to make a dash for the paint shop as Imay not have enough to do that second coat.  So cutting in first just in case the shops are shut and then I can roll on my own tomorrow.  Well that's the plan.

This is worker cherub who I appreciate very much cutting in at skirting level.  My bones just wouldn't cope any more.  Better him than me.

And...

The other Boss cherub making sure the job is done just right.

She is so thrilled at my documenting this entire project!

Ah, the love of a child is so precious. 

Meanwhile, other child is playing guitar, but little does he know that he will be sanding the cupboard doors next!  A job that he is sure to enjoy immensely.

Well, I have achieved what I wanted to do and that is get me to do what needed to be done while the weather allowed.

Last will be resanding the skirting boards and the cupboard doors as well as both sides of the bedroom door.  May as well get the corridor side started.  Then the enamel paint on said skirting.  Now that will be fun for me.  Fine cutting in to be done here at floor level.  I can see massive amounts of back massages being needed during this process. 

And by making my new bedroom door newly painted, thus looking vastly different to the rest of the corridor will help motivate me to get that done next after the domino effect project after the bedroom is fully painted and fitted out.

One thing always leads to another.

Just finished the other half of painting the window frame. 

Just in the nick of time before the sunset!

At least this part is done and dusted and looking like I will be in said bedroom before Christmas. 

Now this will be a wonderful gift to self!

For the third and last time today,

Cheers
Anita - till next my instalment.

When push comes to shove!

Hi Guys,

Mini update and progress report number two, while I take a mini break and wait for my daughter and boyfriend to arrive.

Didn't want to not do what I intended to do and that was sand, dust, wipe and tape the window edges and panes.

Here is the little beauty that is my new friend for some time to come.  The borrowed Ryobi Yellow Peril.  Thanks to my gorgeous friend Ali S. for lending me this wonder.  It makes sanding so much faster and easier and less taxing on my back and arms.

The other Yellow Peril!

Managed to do all the little edges for the entire window which created loads of fine dust.  Made sure I wore the mask and eye protection.

So much dust.  Had to wipe down the feature wall as well.

Oops!  Oh well at least it isn't in my hair...

Or is it?  You probably cannot see the fine film of dust and I hope it comes out easily.

Taped all windows ready to paint without stressing about going on the window pane to make the job so much easier for me to do.  It is after all, all about the prep work.

Lick of paint coming up.

Next should be the feature wall being finished with the last coat.  Hope I don't have to get more paint for that and that what I have left is enough. 

After the wall and the window I have the skirting to do which is not so easy as down low and three large doors which is not so hard as I can use a mini roller for that.

At least I started as the weather is great for oil based paint to dry. 

Note to self - make sure no bugs fly in and get stuck in the paint.

Cheers
Anita now waiting on that help!