a minor detour …

As I grow older, I find time passes more quickly and this perception it seems is normal but for me no less perplexing.  It only seems a few months ago since I retired. It was a time I looked forward to, having opportunity to enjoy the things I had put aside while working full time and bringing up my family. Instead in 2017 I found myself depressed and apparently without purpose. Until that is when I found my function and on the path of creativity and filling my time and space with projects, some super challenging and others less so. I undertook workshops, further education and created work for exhibitions. Time was well spent and fun for the most part. I didn’t always tidy up after myself thoroughly, it was enough to enjoy the good part. Managing the aftermath was not my priority, looking forward and the next task was my aim. 

Until that is I discovered some of my precious dolls had been eaten ferociously by moths.  While this disaster was soon overcome by thorough cleaning and destruction, followed by measures to ensure they didn’t come back and for a while it was business as usual.

But no so fast, the upheaval did highlight my relaxed attitude to clutter and reluctance to let go of stuff when it no longer served a purpose. This accumulation area of ‘no go’ except for unwanted creatures, who liked evidently, dark, warm, and enclosed areas to do what moths do. So, looking differently at the stuff as it languished uncared for on my shelves, I decided to set them and myself free.

Each shelf, cupboard and hiding area was liberated of unwanted equipment and material and I needed nerves of steel, while it was redundant it was stuff that had bought me ups and downs but ultimately to this place!

Each day I declutter allocating to various charitable organisations and friends. The shelves are less crowded and more importantly my mind is clearer. I don’t need stacks of redundant art materials I want time and space.

Also don’t want to leave my home for my children to declutter perhaps less kindly and who would blame them!