Really good ideas. I have books everywhere right now from clearing the shelves of books that need read or pitched. Seven shelves of books are now at good will!

Unfortunately, I got overwhelmed on the next jaunt of my journey to down size when I went into the file room that has 12 full file drawers in three cabinets and about 40 boxes besides of legal cases with pleadings, evidence, court orders, and transcripts. One case alone that takes up 6 drawers is still pending as we fight over illegal levees that flood people now in our 12th year (5 appeals) but most of the rest are closed files.

I wish I could just apply this technique of throw all paper out! When I moved the files to my house to start retiring, I eliminated 2/3 of the files so this is what I thought should be saved! I imagine I will determine what should be scanned or kept but more work to keep old shit does not appeal to me. At least we scanned everything new over the last four years. UG!

Thanks again for the techniques. It was when I helped my mom move back to our state at the age of 78 that I realized people's stuff owns them and I needed to be free of stuff. My mom could not get rid of anything! She kept eggshells in a sealed bowl as she needed them for art.

I have been sorting and sifting and getting rid of stuff regularly ever since. Our shop and garage look good even if we have yet to get to the attic. I dream that when it is all lightened and removed from me, I can move to a more beautiful climate.