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Writer's pictureAngela Sanford

Chaos or Connection

by Anita Benedict


Summer work has wound down and it is time to look ahead to winter work and activities. This fall is colder than last and I am sure I will not be going to any beaches in my shirt sleeves this fall. I usually take some time to explore the Southern bits of NS while visiting my daughter and last year was phenomenal weather wise.


Right now, I am trying to clear some of the chaos that has accumulated over the summer. Corners of stuff tossed into bags or boxes until I had time for it. Add a new kitten to the mix and the boys home on their annual vacation for fishing, it is a huge challenge. But I make a list, and check it twice and give my self a goal list and so far, it is working. My Aunt laughed at me one time for making a list, especially

when she saw “sweep the floor” on it. I truly needed the reminder.


As I clear the clutter, I ask myself why I am saving all these craft supplies, all the material and why did I buy all that yarn! I remind myself that the last time I gave it all away I ended up buying more for a project. This summer some items came in handy for activities at work and I do have plans for community fun, crafting items over the winter. But I have to learn to let go, clear other clutter of stuff that I promised to get back to.


I find it hard to throw or give away things that were given to me. Growing up we didn’t have a lot and what we had we cherished. I say I will “Marie Kondo” things. If an object does not evoke a memory or an emotion, it is ok to part with. However donating things is hard for me because I box it up and put it in my car to take away, but forget about them. I have had things in the back of my car that have came in

handy when someone said, “if only we had.” Too many times I have had just what they needed in my trunk.


I also am storing some of the kid’s things. None have their own space and I can’t bear to throw anything of their childhood away considering I still have things from mine. Perhaps I need better storage solutions, like a shed; but that is where I raise my chickens. If anyone has any ideas, please send them my way!


I dislike that we are a wasteful society, everything is disposable. I do love finding little things, like hand made cards and notes and even tiny toys. I may shed a tear or two in memory, but that just means it was a good life thus far. And I can’t wait to delve into the Christmas memories as I decorate the house.


30 plus years of accumulating Christmas items is 30 plus years of memories.

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