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07 August 2016

ONE THOUGHT LEADS TO ANOTHER...

The other day I decided to clear and clean one of my kitchen cupboards. It’s a big wall cupboard containing three extra wide shelves. It’s a job I used to love doing but that was when I was steadier on my feet and could sprint up and down a set of steps. Not so now, I am extremely fearful of one step let alone three. However, I was determined to give it a go, carefully gripping the handrail with every step.

It didn’t take long to remove cups, glassware, jugs, saucers, dishes and plates and wash the shelves but putting them back was a trial. I thought I could remember where everything went, bearing in mind that some items were seldom used while others were used daily. Suddenly faced with empty shelves I was lost. First attempt was all wrong, as was the second and third. Isn’t it amazing how quickly one can forget?

The trouble is I am an organised sort of person. I like order and everything having its own place, essential these days with a memory that leaves a lot to be desired. I have always been the same; it drove Joe mad but then he was the untidiest person I ever met. These days regimentation is playing a big part in keeping the memory on an even keel. Memory is a powerful asset but when it starts to play up action has to be taken. My way is to write stuff down – all I have to do then is remember where I put the paper or pad!!
Seriously, taking notes has been and still is a godsend, it saves a lot of anxious moments when the memory fails. Heehee just hope I don’t forget how to write!

The iPhone is a useful thing to have, not just for taking pictures or phoning people but for making notes, keeping dates, even a timer when something is cooking in the kitchen. And a torch. Who would have thought you could use a phone as a torch? I have had this phone for a long time but am still amazed by its versatility. I mean, I can even read a book on the phone or buy and pay for stuff if I want to. I don’t do the latter – there’s too many villains around for my liking. I saw on television today that advice is being given for everyone to take a break from anything technical. Those advisors probably have good memories!!

But back to the cupboard, as you can see by the photograph below, it’s back to normal, tidy and clean, and everything in its designated place. I felt quite proud that I’d actually achieved something useful.

14 comments:

  1. And with the picture you can always "remember" where everything goes the next time you clean up.

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  2. BRAVA on the organizing of your kitchen cupboard, Valerie, it looks FAAAAAAABULOUS!

    " I like order and everything having its own place..."

    Yup, I am just like you, I like my environment in order - neat and clean. To me, it makes it so much easier to find things. Also, I live in a very small studio apartment; therefore keeping it organized is important.

    I too have to write things down or I forget. My memory is definitely slipping as I get older. Isn't it amazing thought how technology helps? Many customers come into my store with a list of things they need to get, all listed on their Smartphones. However, I still write everything down on paper.

    Hope you had a lovely Sunday, my friend. Enjoy your week!
    X

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  3. Good morning, Ron. I prefer paper notes. When out shopping I feel hassled if I have to refer to the phone... click on, find the list, Ooooh! No, give me paper every time. Anyway, it's faster to throw that away than click on, find the list, delete!!!

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  4. Joeh, thank you. what a brilliant idea. I only took the picture to show on the blog. Thankfully, I haven't disposed of it - nor will I!

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  5. I hate clearing cupboards but it has to be done (occasionally). I went a bit mad yesterday and washed the lounge and dining room curtains, another job I hate but necessary. Your cupboard looks very organised. I'm a great note maker too and agree that mobile phones are very useful, I use the calendar on mine all the time to remind me of appointments etc. xx

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  6. Hi Pearl. Yes, I use the calendar a lot, I like it because it has an alert system - very necessary for me. Two lots of curtains in one go? Crikey you are brave. Good to see you and hope you and family are okay.

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  7. Yup I'm an everything has a place and is in its place kind of guy. On the other hand my spouse not so much. She's more cleanliness is next to godliness so actually we make a fairly good pair...:)

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  8. OK, I feel lazy now :) Beautifully organized.

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  9. kden - thanks but don't feel guilty, it takes a long time for me to get round to these things!

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  10. And your photo will give you a record of where things should go. I had to smile reading this post Valerie, as I am in the middle of cleaning cupboards in the kitchen right now. I am about half way through my task and needed a break with a cup of tea. My cupboards are near the floor, so to get down and sit for me is difficult, and to get up would make anyone laugh who views the scene. I have my technique of standing up, and that comes with sound effects :) The groaning lasts for a while. We are trying to downsize so a lot of the things I pulled out of the back of the cupboard that I haven't used in too many years than I wish to say, are going to Goodwill. Hopefully someone will get good use out of them. How on earth did I collect so many mugs?

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  11. Denise, you just painted a picture of me. Up is bad, down is impossible. Oh the joys of getting older. At least I know I'm not alone !

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  12. When faced with a job like that, I either take a photo before I start or draw a diagram with what goes where. Otherwise, like you, I just cannot remember where it all goes!

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  13. Hi Addy. In the past I have always 'known' where everything went. This was the first time that the memory was tested and failed. I shall know better in future and I will save the photograph as a just-in-case. Thanks for popping in.

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  14. Congrats, Val. Nice job. Looks great and glad it went well.

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