Coupons–I’ve given up on them. I only cut the ones I absolutely know I will use. Nothing on speculation. Speculation leads to piles of expired coupons that never get used. The few that I do use are kept in my wallet and “spent” as soon as possible.
Greeting Cards— again, I’m not a saver of cards. I am, however, big on my grandkids’ artwork. Their masterpieces are hung on my office wall. ♥
Important Mail–for me, this would be “bills.” (I now do Publisher’s Clearinghouse paper-free, online.) I have an expanding file to stash my current bills. On “bill paying day” I pull it out along with my checkbook and calculator and get to work!
Junk Mail–the name tells the story. “JUNK” goes in the garbage can before it can land on the counter or table! Do not let it stay! There are services where you can opt out of unwanted catalogs and other junk mail. Catalog Choice is a good place to start.
Legal Documents: this would include copies of your annual tax returns, wills, title to your car, birth certificates. You might use a safe, filing cabinet or flat file. I love file boxes but, for ultra important paperwork, label it well so that no one mindlessly disposes of it!
That’s when I made an amazing discovery. I could donate them! My local public library has a “magazine room.” People bring their lightly used magazines in as a donation. Others read them there or buy them for 5 cents each. Guilt is gone! I can keep my magazines long as I want, then drop them at the library and let THEM deal with the clutter! What a perfect solution.
Family Photos: putting them in albums is great but what if you have too many pictures and not enough time? Have a photo party! Invite family or friends to join you for some tasty snacks and everyone start sorting. You can set up albums by years, eras, special events (like graduations, weddings, vacations, babies, etc) or subjects. It make take more than one party but I have found some of the best conversation takes place when you are doing something together. It’s fun!
Enjoy!
