Simple Things
December 14, 2010 | My Jottings
I find that simple things make me happy. The more complicated something gets, the more cheerless I feel.
I like simple things like clean sheets, a crisp, noisy apple, loopy handwriting, the smile of a child, and the voice of a friend. I like a bar of lavender soap, a husband who whistles in the morning, and the pleasure I get from looking upon deep jewel-toned colors.
I dislike clutter, not because I look down my nose at anyone who prefers it, but because clutter seems so complicated and it jumbles up my thinking. I can keep most of my home free from clutter, but have been woefully unable to keep my office clutter-free.
Here’s a photo taken a few months ago, and you can see the piles of paperwork here and there, waiting for proper homes:
Every time I walked into my office I would inwardly groan, which is a lot of inward groaning, because I work a lot in my office and need to be in that room several times a day. Frequently I would resolve that soon and very soon I would take a day and just do whatever it took to deal with the clutter.
But of course, other things always called my name. The laundry, the meals, the errands, the books, the meetings, the ringing telephone, and of course the beloved people in my life. So I answered those calls and ignored the office, which had stopped calling my name and instead started up with this ominous thrum that never quieted down.
Until a few days ago. Sara generously took the day and sat in the office with me, going through every single piece of paper and other miscellaneous items. We listened to Pandora on the computer while we worked, and when we were finished, my office looked like this, and still does:
I can’t even begin to tell you what a difference this has made. Why I procrastinated about all of this office clutter for so long could probably be a study in human behavior I wouldn’t want to know about. I just know that I feel like I’ve been given a new start, and I love walking into this room again.
I love simple things.
Like comfortable silence between old friends, the constant flutterings of chickadees at our feeders, a pair of thick warm socks, and a neat and uncluttered office.
What kinds of simple things do you love?
This post on simple things brought to mind a song by Bill and Gloria Gaither from the mid 1970’s. It’s called We Have This Moment Today. The third verse goes:
Tender words, gentle touch, and a good cup of coffee, And someone who loves me and wants me to stay. Hold them near while they’re here, And don’t wait for tomorrow, to look back and wish for today.
I am not familiar with that song, Sue. But I love the lyrics you shared….more simple things to be grateful for!
Just read this: http://jesussendsmeflowers.blogspot.com/2009/11/these-are-few-of-my-favorite-things.html
Pretty much… simple things. Not all… but most.
Ahhhh, I can feel your relief! I hate clutter too but you would never know it if you saw my house! I struggle with this so much and get totally overwhelmed by my inability to keep up with clutter!! And I totally know what you mean about how it feels to just be in a room that is cluttered and then when it is straightened up!! I am so glad Sara helped you with your office!
I LOVE the pics of the room, by the way! Every time you post pics of things in your house I just want to come and live with you! Even through the pictures it just feels good to me.
And I also could totally relate to your enjoyment of clean sheets, a crisp apple and loopy handwriting. Maybe I really am your clone! =) A good thing to be, if you ask me!
You are a kindred spirit, Savannah. You have always loved and rejoiced in simple things, haven’t you? LY.
You are too kind, Jessica. 🙂 Keeping clutter down when you have a young family is hard, though. Much leeway is given to you young moms!
i love, love, love your office. the beadboard, the blue, the huge windows…. i love it.
Thank you Laurie! I hope you’re done digging out from under all that snow….
You call that clutter? I can show you clutter. Clutter shows a mind filled with good intentions, even if you can’t find the intended. Everyone needs two offices: one for clutter, one for work. If you need further help, let me know.
I like that – clutter shows a mind filled with good intentions. I’ll remember that and have it handy next time things get messy. 🙂
What a lovely office you have, dear Julie! Great new design as well . . love you
Thank you Anne! Love you too!