GON Reader Letter #1
Tips for Decluttering Cabinets
In response to your reader who is overwhelmed by the messy kitchen in your February 1 issue, when I tackled mine,
I had to start with decluttering my cabinets. They were so stuffed that things couldn’t be put away and that lead to the countertops becoming a mess.
Once I had them organized, I put sticky notes on each door with what was in there. That made it so much easier to
do a 15 minute clean up. Once I got used to the new order of my cabinets, I took off the sticky notes.
It was a challenge to do the insides when the outside was such a mess, but you can’t put away anything if there is no room to put it.
Thank you for your ongoing support!
-- Lisa Barter
GON Reader Letter #2
Giving Aways Items to Help Reduce Clutter
Hi Maria,
I would like to add to your topic of giving away items to help reduce clutter (January 8 issue) and helping others.
Many towns now have Buy Nothing Facebook groups. On my local FB group, I not only find items that others no longer have a use for, but I am clearing my clutter and finding new homes for items I no longer need as well.
Over the past weeks, I have found a home for a beautiful armoire that I really did not have room for, some snow gear that no longer fits my kids, and items we obtained during the holidays that we won’t be using.
It’s a good feeling to get it out of your home, give something to someone else who can use it, and keep these items out of the landfills.
--Christine Falchetta
GON Reader Letter #3
Costume Jewelry Finds...Get Out Your Magnifying Glass!
In response to your January 7 issue, our church rummage sale receives quite a bit of costume jewelry each
year. I grab the magnifying glass and read "the fine print," as many times jewelry comes in a snarl of pieces. There are usually several pieces that are gold or sterling...or signed.
We take the gold/silver to a coin dealer and get a better return than if it went
in the sale.
For instance, one small 14K cross about an inch tall brought $50. Other smaller signed pieces may go to a resale shop and again, proceeds go back to the church minus a small commission. The sale supports mission projects, so it's a win-win
situation.
I bought 14k and pearl studs for 50 cents and a 14K and opal pendant with no chain for 10 cents at rummage sales!
On another note, it is very easy to replace clasps or add magnetic clasps for ease in getting necklaces on and off if you have dexterity problems. You'll need a pair of needlenose pliers, parts from your local craft store, and a good light. You can then recycle that necklace into its second life instead of trashing it. Inexpensive and a fun hobby!
There are also replacement rhinestones and pin backs. But don't get me started!
-- Elaine Ferris, Mason, MI
