Usually memories are better than the reality. Actually, good memories and stories seem to get even better as time passes. Nothing about piles of stuff cluttering up your space gets better.

Creating an album/journal where you can write stories, paste photos, articles and small souvenirs is a great way to memorialize many of life’s precious moments and the objects that went along with them.

Reduce Clutter: Start a Journal. A lot of the items that tend to clutter up closets and storage areas are sentimental. Memories associated with these items stir up emotions that make it difficult to part with unused goods.

So instead of keeping your grandmother’s dresser in the closet, write down a story that reminds you of your grandmother, and donate the dresser. And if you say you aren’t a writer purchase a tape recorder and record the story. Not only will you enjoy the reduction in clutter but also the memories that you can share with others.- Kristin Long, Organizational Specialists Inc, www.organizationalspecialists.com