Temps are climbing to 100 degrees today, pollution levels are high and our long hot summer continues to test people’s patience and wellness. Here’s one way to help keep both you and your space calm and cool. Use a blend of lavender, lemon and peppermint essential oils in your diffuser. This combination aids in purifying the air, lifting your spirits and balancing energies. You can add more or less of any one of the oils depending on your preference (easy on the lemon as it’s more astringent). For even better results, place the diffuser next to your fan for greater dispersement! No diffuser yet? Add the oils to sea salt and place a handful in the corner of your shower to dissolve while you shower. Or toss the salt blend in tepid water for a foot soak. TIP: Make your oils go further. Fill the empty bottle with spring water and replace the cap. Shake. There’s enough residual oil left so you can refill up to three times before recycling the bottle. See my resource section on Essential Oils for more tips.
portland downsizing
Furniture Bank Creates Win-Win
Getting rid of stuff is just one piece of the downsizing puzzle. There are many other components including where, how, what and who gets the items you are letting go of. Community Warehouse has been on my Resources Page for years as one of the best places to donate household goods and there are lots of reasons why. Their mission of “redistributing donated furniture and household goods to neighbors in need” continues to grow in demand along with the number of working class poor. The nonprofit is one of the few places that accepts mattress donations (no kings/always in need of twins), drop off is open 7 days a week AND they offer pick up service ($30 nominal fee).
I recently toured their newer Tualatin location and was impressed by its organized and efficient operation as well as the welcoming staff. Like its parent location in NE Portland, the warehouse is divided into two sections. The largest area contains about 90% of the donations and it’s where clients are outfitted with everything from linens and a set of cookware to dining chairs and a sofa. Their Estate Store sells select items at great prices to benefit the mission. It’s open to the public 7 days a week. CW networks with over 200 agencies between Portland and Corvalis and in 2014 helped over 7,000 neighbors in need. AND kept 550+ tons of stuff out of landfills. Now that’s a WIN-WIN!
Visit Community Warehouse to learn more about scheduling a pick up, location hours and items most needed. How you let go of your stuff matters. Contact me if you need guidance. As always, thanks for being mindful of where things go … and for doing your part in making our Earth a lighter place!
TIP: Not in the PDX corridor? Use the nationwide donate/recycle guide at Earth 911 (another favorite from my Resources Page). Just put in your zip code and up pops a list of who in your area accepts what you what to donate. Easy!
A Clear Place 