Martha, Martha, Martha!

…or is it? Does a book about homekeeping need to be 744 pages? I guess there was a time when I thought so or I would not have bought this book, which could also be used as a murder weapon. And I actually proceeded to read it, but then came to my senses. Because I’m never going to be so high-maintenance about keeping my house clean, not that there’s anything wrong with that. I’m not interested in reading about ambient vs. accent lighting, or what kind of bakeware is “essential.” I’ve kept it all this time because I thought I’d use it as a reference, thinking that one day I’d be the kind of person with a super-organized house who knew all the tips and tricks that made Martha millions. But I’ve learned so far that I need to let go of ideas about who I thought I should be and just deal with who I am. I’m happy to read a book with 744 pages, but not on this topic.

This book was the only thing I got rid of this week. Technically I haven’t gotten rid of it yet because Bob and Emma both added a few books to my donation pile, which I am not counting, so I need to make a library run. Yesterday I emptied the back of the car and added a few additional things. This is yesterday’s donation pickup. Many of these items were earmarked for donation in May so I have not included them in June’s total.

More things gone from the house.

This week I’m otherwise breaking even on my stuff in-stuff out score. On Tuesday Bob wanted to go look for a bookshelf to store his work-related books, and I tagged along. We threw out our old console table during bulk garbage because it was falling apart, and it held books and Bob’s stereo so we need to put something there. We didn’t see anything in Target or Lowes so since we were in the area we decided to go to Goodwill. Even though my car was loaded with stuff, I’d already committed that stuff to the pickup people so I didn’t drop anything off. But we did find exactly what we needed, for $8 plus tax.

For all your economic textbook needs.

It’s actually a hutch, so it’s not too wide which was important. Bob filled it with his textbooks, which means they are no longer on our bedroom floor. At some point I might paint it and make an actual bottom if I want a project, but it works fine as is. I love that we were about to shell out at least $50 for a shelf and found something functional for hardly any money.

In the last couple days I’ve wrapped up Girl Scouts and library volunteering. I also wrapped up one of my jobs, which I was doing from home for several hours a week. I’m looking forward to having more free time. Emma’s dance recital is tomorrow and again Sunday, so by this time Sunday evening I will have even more things off my plate for the time being.

Thanks for all the comments on the last few posts, I appreciate them and will respond as soon as I have a chance. Enjoy the weekend!