“Where do I consign my stuff?” That’s one of the most common questions I’m asked. The answer, however, has more layers to it than just where. You also have to consider what and how. I’ve put together a nifty Consignment Tip Sheet to address all three. Every city I’ve ever been in has consignment stores with items ranging from high end to low brow. If you are lucky enough to live in the Portland metro area, there are some great choices for consigning furniture, fashion and jewelry. But even if you live outside the City of Roses, my CTS (Consignment Tip Sheet) has helpful hints on deciding what is good consignment material and how to prepare your items to help ensure a higher dollar return. Download pdf file: Consignment Tips from A Clear Place.
Downsizing
Clear Out Under the Full Moon
Did you know you can use the power of the moon to help you clear your space. Huh? It’s true. The full moon is the time of the month for letting go of what you no longer need or want in your life. It’s nature’s time to release so it’s our time, too. When the moon is at its fullest, set the intention for what you want to get rid of and then as the moon wanes, your unwanted items will diminish. Old patterns, habits, emotions, fears, etc. I find it a perfect time to take a look around your space and clear out what no longer serves a purpose. It can be obvious items like furniture and appliances to smaller things like photos, books, clothes, papers … the stuff that fills the shelves and closets and drawers. Let it go. Clear it out. You’ll feel SO much better. For mindful ways to dispose of your stuff, check out my Resources page. And don’t forget to give yourself a big round “super moon” smile for taking positive action!
Favorite Earth Day Tip
Time to share my annual Earth Day tip. Earth911 is my favorite resource for where to recycle whatever you have – wherever you are. It’s nationwide so you can send this link to friends and family all over the country. Super easy to use. Type in what you want to get rid of (recycle, donate) and then put in your zip code. Up pops your options including websites and contact info. Find a place fast for everything from mattresses to videos. LOVE it. Read more about this wonderful free resource on my earlier blog post. Remember, honor our Earth home everyday by being mindful of what you have and how you use it. Check out this and other resources for creating a clear place on my Resources Page.
Closet Anatomy
Does your closet scare you? Does it brighten your day? Or are you somewhere in the middle?
This week, I get up close and personal with my own closet and open my door to show you what works for me. Plus, get a simple tip for warm tootsies!
Handle With Care
Moving is always stressful and it can be especially so for the elderly. For many, if not most, letting go of stuff also signals the letting go of life. If you are faced with relocating a parent, relative or friend into an assisted living or retirement community – it can be a difficult downsize. Here are my top tips for helping to ease the process for everyone involved:
- Comfort – It can be very unsettling to see personal belongings being handled by others. Reassure them often with a warm smile and gentle squeeze of the hand. Make sure they have physical needs attended to during the process. Keep their hygiene items, medicines, etc. close by and continue with their regular routine as much as possible in terms of meal schedule and exercise.
- Include – allow them to be a part of the decision making process. Even a simple, “Which of these vases is your favorite?” can go a long way in easing their fear of no control. If possible, let them select the charity/relative to receive whatever is not going with them. If they have to part with something especially dear, take a photo of it so they can have the visual memory to enjoy whenever they want to.
- Pace – whenever possible go slow. If they are active in the downsizing, don’t overwhelm them with the chore of clearing out a dresser … take it one drawer at a time. Same with file cabinets, bookshelves and closets. Allow for trips down memory lane. Help them sort and stay on task but honor their need to revisit – treat their “treasures” with respect.
Orient – it’s important to keep clocks, calendars and newspapers current and in view during the move. It helps them stay oriented in the midst of confusion. Make sure those things, along with their favorite items, greet them in their new place. Beloved artwork, a piece of pottery, their stuffed bear … whatever says home to them.
Need more guidance? Have your own tips to share? Contact ACP.
Are You Redecorating Hell?
Our space includes more than what’s around us. We have to be aware of what’s inside as well. Find out if you are adding fuel to the fire in this week’s Light Show. Also get an inspiring look at a cob wall in progress, see my review on a closet space saver and learn about Moving Planet Day.
Radio Time for A Clear Place
A Clear Place was the featured guest today on Aging Resourcefully, the blog talk show presented by APN (Adult Placement Network). Listeners got a capsule version of how A Clear Place came about, what it offers and what makes it unique. This is a great interview to share with anyone you know of who is in need of help with their space but is afraid to ask for it. Note: There is a brief intro before the 25 min. interview begins. Also available on iTunes. Listen now.
Freeze Your Peels
My favorite garbage tip for hot weather! Get it and more on this week’s mini Light Show. View now.
Tropical Estate Sale
Downsizing CAN be fun … even in the heat. Zoe created this reading oasis where shoppers can enjoy garden shade while selecting books. Ripe plums from the tree provide a golden, juicy snack while you browse. Zoe did a great job arranging all the items – 
from furniture to ornaments – so things are easy to find and fun to look at. Shoppers are arriving on foot, on bikes and in vans. Terrific bargains and smiling faces – a perfect combo in any weather! FINAL Sale Date: Sunday July 31st, 10 – 4. 7026 NE Grand, PDX. (Near MLK & Dekum)
A Clear Place 