The Blended House

The Blended House — Beautiful and Functional

By Wendy Florian Terrado

Our homes serve us in so many ways: they’re an extension of our personalities and our tastes; they keep us safe from the elements; they hold all of our belongings; they’re a source of comfort and safety; and, in some cases, they represent a significant investment.

Sometimes (and often before we realize it), our belongings overwhelm everything else we hold dear about our living space. Our stuff literally robs us of our home's comfort, its livability, its beauty, its value and could even compromise our safety.

Collectibles take over entire walls; favorite books overtake bookshelves, ending up in stacks on the floor; and photographs consume entire cabinets. Precious correspondence is stashed in neverending boxes. Office supplies purchased on sale or craft supplies that "might come in handy some day," while full of good intentions, simply gather dust.

Is it possible your collection is a little out of control? Are you embarrassed to have people over? Do you keep certain rooms closed off from friends and family? Do people routinely suggest that you throw things away? Have your belongings taken over important living space?

You may be a victim of hoarding, a growing problem for many people, especially as they age. When your collections and sale-happy purchases block hallways or doors, no longer fit inside closets or overwhelm a room, it’s time to rethink your once "House Beautiful."

While there is no "perfect" answer to this problem and each solution is unique, the steps to a solution are the same. Our goal is to restore balance in your home through a proven process:

• We talk through what's most important to keep and in what areas excessive clutter may have created a problem.
• We offer nonjudgmental input and support in improving the living environment.
• We work together to clear exits and hallways so that an unexpected fire or earthquake doesn't barricade you and your family.
• We provide tips to improve household safety.
• We reward steps toward positive change.

And, believe it or not, there are actual emotional rewards for clearing the clutter to offset the guilt, shame and sense of loss. One client, hesitant to give up anything that may be useful, donated an extra laser printer to a community center. Another client, reluctantly realizing that wardrobe favorites she'd never fit into again could be put to good use, donated the items to a women's transitional living center. Both clients celebrated a hefty donation receipt for next year’s taxes.

But my favorite client story is about a man who sorted through his boyhood baseball card collection, longing to connect with younger generations who share his thrill of the game. Yes, the cards had monetary value, but the real value was of the heart—and he now visits local Boys & Girls Clubs to share his collection and the memories they represent.

If your home is no longer in balance and you (or someone you know) need help with hoarding, contact a professional organizer. Share the beauty; reclaim your home.

Wendy Florian Terrado is a Professional Organizing "Guru". She is the founder of Virtually Taken Care Of!, Inc., a professional organization company. You can contact her at 888-711-2711 or visit her website at www.vtcoworks.com

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