Do you remember when I promised that I would not flood your inbox with useless information and that if I had nothing to say I would not send out a newsletter? You may not have heard it, per se, but I did skip September because I made that promise to myself. I am keenly aware of all the detritus we encounter -- whether it's too much stuff or too many words.

This month I am sharing thoughts ab the communal use of resources, what I am learning as I share time and space with old folks and then I'm checking in on you and your decluttering journey. The decluttering coaching and work I do is direct, compassionate, green and collaborative. I am mindful of the process and the sticking points no matter how long it takes to unlock and flow. You do you and be good to yourself. I'm here if you need me.

Thank you + Onward! -- Gari

Here's a question – does everyone need to own everything? What if that new project needs a tool that you may never use again. Do you really want to buy it? Do you need to buy it? There is a better way than each of us owning and storing things that we barely, rarely use. We also know that the sharing of resources creates community which is what the West Philadelphia Tool Library is about. And, they offer more than tools - their classes teach you how to use them too. Read more about their upcoming Power Tool class here. Wanna start a tool library in your own community – click here. It's part of the sharing economy and is a worldwide movement. Read about The Sharing Depot, Canada's first library of things. I love it.

In the past six months I have had the privilege of helping two elders organize their papers as they prepare for their next chapter. In one case, my new friend passed on knowing that things were in order for his widow. It was an honor spending time with him and I will always remember his sparkly blue eyes as he reflected on all the work he had done in his life. He was sad but satisfied. It was a special moment. Now I am spending wonderful time with a feisty 90-year-old going through her stuff. Looking at years of birthday cards and love letters or taking stock of a life’s work is unlike anything else I have ever experienced. I consider this holy work and I have reverence for these lives well spent.The partnership is profound and sweet and meaningful and fun.

What's the take-away for those of us not nearing the end of the road? I could say, start discerning what to keep and what to toss or think of the burden of "stuff" on your loved ones. Sure, that's true, but my real hope for you is that you are satisfied right now because the quality of our lives is based on how we live every single day. I wish you ease, flow, satisfaction and love. That's what I keep learning from my elders.

How did you do on your 2018 decluttering resolution? You know that within weeks people like me will start asking you ab your desires and goals for 2019! I do believe you when you say you want to clear your space and clear your head. You can do this. I promise. Break it down into small bits. It is definitely work, but you CAN transform your space into one that nourishes and calms you. It is time to break free of your story (I can't, I should, I've always, it's too much, I'm ashamed, it's overwhelming...) and do it. If you can't do it alone, call me or read the book/workbook.