Day 3 - 217 -- Moving Through

Reminiscing -- the brain activity that accompanied the physical work of clearing out stored items. I got through a few smaller boxes, downsizing from 2 large to 1 medium. Much of the rest went into the recycling bag and the donation bag. This dealt with office supplies and amassed committee meeting minutes from the external volunteer groups over the past years. A few key documents have been retained and the shredding pile grew exponentially. I have one further medium box of personal papers to complete tomorrow -- guaranteed shredding there. It will take a while to shred things with the home machine, but I have a week and a half before the next curbside pickup day, so it will get done.

Small steps -- the theme for the clearing process. It takes some time to sort through some items, while others go more quickly. While I know there are things that I'd like to hold onto, much of the material may bring some memories, but can be re-dispersed. I am glad that there are some wonderful community organizations that can take office and school supplies, clothing and household goods. Other items will be recycled as much as possible to avoid sending it to the landfill -- keeping sustainability in mind. Many of the items today brought good memories and reminded me of experiences and people that had moved to the back of my mind. Those feelings kept me moving through the task.

There can be some trepidation at opening a box or bag from the back of the closet simply due to the potential memories that may be unearthed. Even the good memories may become overwhelming. Thus, such days of clearing have to be days when one feels emotionally strong at the get go. It does feel good to move things onward. It is a long time between sessions with my current work circumstances, but things do move out, just much more slowly than I'd prefer.

A line from a song chorus ran through my mind a few times while working away today. It is all about remembering happy times past while walking. Enjoy!

Reminiscing -- Little River Band