Monday at the Library

After our whirlwind weekend, my Sweetie and I were ready to start the week with our favorite date - the local library.  It is an award winning library, beautifully designed and outfitted with a very nice coffee shop on the main level.  It seems new to me, but is already undergoing a renovation and expansion that will almost double its size.  Most of the new area will accommodate the offerings for children and teens.  Several of the current employees, including the husband of a riding buddy who manages IT for the library, went to Europe and toured libraries before ground was broken on our addition.  One thing I'm looking forward to is that the book-sorting apparatus will be enlarged and surrounded by glass so patrons can watch the process!   Maybe I'm easily amused, but that sounds awesome.  I'll take my grandchildren for the grand opening in the fall. What a blessing to live in an area where people of means choose to underwrite projects for the common good - libraries, a center for senior health, accessible playgrounds, public spaces, art centers. 

I can spend a happy morning browsing the stacks.  I have a route to check out the new offerings featured in two sections.  I have a habit of checking out books about downsizing and de-cluttering.  I'm always inspired by the books.  The reasons for clearing clutter and organizing one's space are compelling.  I would especially like to make it easier to volunteer at my church and to expand my sewing hobby.  The streamlined spaces in the books are beautiful and calming. There's only one problem - I'm messy.  I start with enthusiasm and determination, but I simply cannot part with some things the books would classify as clutter.  If my mother's or grandmother's hands made it, it stays.  If it was part of our family celebrations, it stays (I have a lot of dishes, y'all). If it was special to one of my daughters, well, come on back Pooh and Eyeore!  And, of course, I have to hold onto toys for my grandchildren to enjoy here.  This actually amazes me: my granddaughter plays with the tiny animal families exactly as her mother did.  I'm so glad I kept them. 

So, true to form, I checked out a book about minimalism.  I'll enjoy it, but at least I didn't spend actual money on it. Maybe one of these days I'll get my life in order.  But, it's become a family joke that I never get very far in that endeavor.  I'm gonna have to run - I can't wait to start "Confessions of a Failed Southern Lady".