SANDRA DEMPSEY POST

Drawing was never my favorite pastime. I wasn’t good at it, recognizing that even at an early age. But papers, stationery and notebooks, I loved. Some people believe handwritten notes on colorful paper are only memories, and for sure technology has reduced some of that communication style. But all is not lost in the handwriting department. You’ll need to look more diligently in stores for cards or paper to purchase, but they are still sold.

Not only do I like sending mail, I love receiving it. And I like newspapers and books and magazines, and sharing them with others. It’s a rather innocent hobby, but it’s not for minimalists. Paper seems to multiply during midnight hours and if not careful, you’ll find yourself outgrowing desks and drawers rather rapidly. I speak from experience.

My collection of what I considered meaningful stories, helpful information, jokes and humorous cartoons suddenly, or so it seemed, began multiplying at rapid rates. My options were limited, but I knew I had to reduce inventory. And so downsizing began. That word gets a lot of press lately, especially among “older” people. I’m unwilling to get rid of my grandmother’s china or my mother’s crystal goblets regardless of what the younger generation does or doesn’t like, but certainly I can reduce excess paper.

I have promised my three adult children not to leave them with a house full of stuff they don’t want. I’m hoping they’ll be more receptive to multiple treasures if the paper clutter is reduced, besides the New Year will be here very soon and I love new beginnings and resolutions. It’s perfect timing for my project. Paper shredding is on the list as is reviewing my personally composed rules to myself. Since I wrote them, remembering details shouldn’t be too difficult, but somehow I’m struggling.

While in search of a particular article, I came across a collection of papers, jokes, medical advice and miscellaneous treasures I had forgotten about. Rule #1 write on the paper why you are keeping it; magically remembering won’t happen. Second rule, if you plan to forward information on to someone, be timely. Four years later isn’t helpful. If within 15 minutes you don’t recall why you saved the item, dispose of it. Do not put it aside to ponder over later.

More than once I’ve gone through a lovely collection of greeting cards I’ve saved, yes, from years ago, but if the signature is just a first name I may draw a blank as to the sender. Not proud about that, but just helping others realize challenges of being a saver. But with the anticipation of the holiday season uppermost in my mind, and the possibility of more efficiency in the New Year, I’m eager to share my enthusiasm.

Next year at this time I’ll have much less to sort through, and the wisdom and pleasure I’ve gathered from reading all these papers will enhance my life. Ah, more leisure time for sure, but I’ll need to work hard so as not to fall into the same errors. Life is challenging, but success even with small projects, can make those Christmas tree lights all the brighter and the season even more festive and fun. May your holidays be happy, beautiful and clutter free!