SIMPLY, Sparkly!

“Out of the strain of Doing, into the peace of the Done.”

– Julia Louise Woodruff

Wo-hoo.... I made it through the week, and I can’t believe how much fun I’ve had. The weather even cooperated. It snowed, so it was a great excuse to come right home from work and keep working away. Once I set my mind on the idea of “unstuffng,” the task to simplify took on a different perspective... it became a personal challenge. I kept reminding myself of the end result – a more “peace-filled environment.” I became determined to make a difference in my home, by the time I reported back to you today. I hope Monday’s blog inspired some of you to begin to simplify too.... I’d love to hear your success stories!

IT’S FRIDAY, LET’S SPARKLE... Action Required... My son was the inspiration for this week’s “sparkle” suggestion. He owns a television that has to be 60-plus inches wide (He’s a guy who loves to watch sports, need I say more). Anyway, the TV is a monster of a thing and he has finally decided, after a recent move, that a smaller, flat screen TV would fit better in his new place. So, instead of trying to sell his monstrosity he told me that he is planning to donate it to a boys club or half-way house. His generous spirit gave me an idea. Since I had just begun to clean-out, why not compile a list of non-profit agencies or local businesses (including their addresses and phone numbers) that might be able to use some of my “stuff ?” Then as I continue to simplify my home, I can check out my list and quickly find a place to donate my gently-used treasures. You know the old saying, “One person’s “junk” is another person’s “treasure.”

Below is a general list of agencies/businesses, and donation suggestions, that I put together. You can use it as a starting point and check out similar places in your area.

Women’s Shelter, Half-way House, Emergency Family Shelters – toys, coloring books, puzzle books, clothes, shoes, furniture (small dressers, rocking chairs, comfy chairs, TV’s, radios, lamps), bedding, towels, bulletin boards, office supplies, kitchen items, baby furniture (high chairs, portable cribs), magazines, books (children & adult), VCR’s & videos, DVD’s.

Christian-based Shelters – Bibles, Christian books, CD’s, religious wall art

Nursing Homes – magazines, books, craft supplies, medical supplies (walkers, crutches), vases, afghan’s or small quilts, comfy chairs, rocking chairs

Community Transition Programs (job placement, re-training) – business clothes, shoes, purses, briefcases, self-improvement books, resume paper

YMCA – sports equipment, athletic shoes, referee shirts

Charitable Thrift Shops (Goodwill, Salvation Army, ARC, etc) – gently used, clean items for resale

Small Private-owned Day Care Centers – toys, children’s books, art supplies, sports equipment

Local College Students – furniture (bookcases, small tables, chairs, dressers, lamps, small household appliances such as microwaves, iron, coffee maker)

Many community organizations run on a “shoe-string budget” and donations definitely make a difference in their outreach. By giving to their businesses, we are helping those who are being the “hands and feet of Christ” in our own communities. Next time you drop off some donations, why not spend a little time visiting with the workers and thank them for the way their organization chooses to “sparkle.” Bring a plate of cookies, a jar of candy, or some flowers... brighten their day!

Well, my car is packed, and tomorrow morning I will be delivering my first load of treasures, AND celebrating this weeks’ accomplishment. Simplify.... simplify.... simplify.... it’s a good thing!

Have a blessed weekend and I’ll meet you back here on Monday morning.
God’s Peace,  Donna Weaver

“The Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything I need!”

- based on the words of Psalm 23