GON Reader Letter #1
Making Peace with a Messy Partner
Maria,
Your February 27th
newsletter regarding living with a disorganized partner really resonated with me. I am happiest in an organized, clutter-free environment where everything has its place and can be found when needed.
My husband is the complete opposite. I have never, ever been around anyone so averse to putting things away or throwing things out. He seems to thrive in chaotic surroundings where everything is out in the open. This stresses me out to the max.
After 19 years of marriage, I finally realized this is not going to change and I have to let it go or drive myself crazy. As a compromise, he has his areas that are ridiculous messes and I keep my areas organized.
In shared areas, I pick
up and tidy as much as I can. I try to focus on his more positive attributes and not obsess over the ones I can't change.
Anyway, I know this letter is long, but I had to let you know how much this topic hit home with me, and allow me to vent a bit! I will
certainly keep your tips in mind and make adjustments. Thank you!
-- Diana
GON Reader Letter
#2
Reading When Traveling and Breezing Through Security
Regarding your
February 19th newsletter, I have
family in Europe, so have flown over many times.I don't usually get magazines, so I treat myself to my "travel only" magazine, Women's World. The short stories and puzzles keep me busy. I do pack a book, but since I prefer reading
undisturbed, I don't usually end up reading any of it. I do watch movies. I very rarely go out to the movies, so there are usually plenty I haven't seen.
And packing liquids in an easily accessible space in key to getting through security quickly. I was told by TSA that wearing a hoodie through the scanner can be a cause to get
pulled aside. I take my hoodie or zip up fleece off before going through.
-- Birgit
GON Reader
Letter #3
Opting for Bar Soap Over Liquid
Dear
Maria,
Thank you, as always, for your unfailing efforts to make our lives calmer. Regarding liquid soap versus bar soap:
Bar soap has only a paper wrapper. No big plastic bottles that also require shipments that take up much space in trucks that contribute to the carbon emissions problem. Twelve bars of soap versus twelve bottles of liquid soap. The environmental comparison is staggering.
Bar soap lasts months—not the case with liquid soap. And this makes it a very economical choice. Hence, it is a double win.
Thank you again for your contributions.
Sincerely,
-- Cynthia
GON Reader Letter #4
Tackling One Area at a Time
I really enjoy your newsletter. I tackled one area last night...the fireplace mantel. I tackled the TV stand today. Both look great! I’m going to follow your advice and do it one area at a time. Thanks!
-- Pam D.
GON Reader Letter #5
It Takes One Small Prevention
Hi Maria,
First, thank you for your newsletter. It is my motivation to keep going! I love reading what you have to say to help us along and also tips from other readers.
Regarding your March 24th issue, the article regarding the Exxon Valdez oil spill, I work at the Washington State
Department of Ecology in the Spills Prevention, Preparedness and Response Section, known as the Spills Program in our Agency.
Every day our program works with those in Washington State at refineries, vessels, marina's etc., on how to prevent oil spills, how
to be prepared if they do have a spill and we also have a section that is on 24/7 to the Response of an oil spill. It's all great, and hard work at times, they all have a passion and mission to the environment.
There are also task forces that help protect the
waters of Alaska, Washington, Oregon and California where we all share our tactics and experiences. It is so true, as you stated, it just takes one small prevention, that one step to take, and if you don't, that could turn into something so much bigger.
Just like
all those "small" cluttered spaces that could become so much more to tackle and then you might be on an episode of Hoarders, "buried alive!"
Thank you again for your time with your wonderful newsletter and other materials. I have been a member for many many years. I will be retiring from the Spills Program at the end of
June after being with Ecology for nearly 29 years, I look forward to spending even more time on projects I still need to tackle in retirement.
Take care and stay well.
Sincerely,
Tammy K.
On another note... Packing for a trip doesn’t have to be stressful! My Travel Smarter: Essentials for Every Trip list includes must-have travel essentials that will keep you organized, comfortable, and ready for any adventure! 
