Placed and Forgotten – Keep in Step with the Spirit
Now former procrastinators, we roll up our sleeves, pull on the work gloves, and face the “Placed and Forgotten.” That’s the stuff that we put in the garage, basement, attic, or shed “for now.” It was easier at the time to avoid a decision. Figuring out what should actually be done with the old bicycle or the canning jars seemed hard and inconvenient. So, we shoved them in the shed or garage and walked away. Or, maybe at the time, it was a reasonable choice.
Since then, it seems one of three things takes place. 1) We emotionally separate over time (It’s been years) and realize now when we see the bike, “I’m not riding it again, it’s expensive to repair, and it takes space I could really use.” 2) The thing grows roots and is harder to move now than it was originally. “It’s sentimental. I hate to get rid of it.” 3) Time and environment have taken a toll that renders the items useless. “Oops. Broken jars and corroded lids that can’t hold food.”
Items 1 and 3 make it easy to remove them. Category 2 is a tougher cookie. If you’re an action-resistant person, ask someone action-oriented to come alongside and help you decide and act. A friend helped us go through file boxes. She followed my husband’s guidelines and zipped right through, never diverted by anything she saw. Another friend helped me make decisions, strip beds and pack each pile as a complete bed (dust ruffles, mattress pads, etc.) and find appropriate places to store them so we could temporarily use the room for another purpose. She rode with me to drop off donations. Once a friend sat with a book in another room while I worked on things that required just my attention. Knowing she was there to boost me, I did the work quickly and thoroughly, then we did something fun.
Sometimes we’re reluctant to get into such a project because we anticipate difficulty. An action-oriented helper keeps you moving. Even if you don’t get through every corner of the basement, rejoice! You have accomplished good work. Set a date for the next attack.
Tips:
Call bulk pick up so you have a date the city will come haul off your pile. If you have to haul it, immediately set a date with someone who can do the job.
If you keep something sentimental, find a way to actually enjoy it. Reclaim floor space by hanging or mounting the bike.
Watch out for critters living among the old bricks and broken lawn chairs behind the shed.
Definitely get help with the attic so you can hand things down. Empty the attic while you’re still limber or find someone to bring it all down to you. No more attic storage.
This is a wonderful fall day project whether all day or an hour. Cool air and freedom. Enjoy!
Which “placed and forgotten” location will you tackle?
