"Shedding" for 2009

As my owners like to complain, I tend to shed constantly. I try to encourage them as well but it is not always easy....perhaps as it is the beginning of a new year, they will follow my advice.

There are 3 basic questions to ask yourself in order to "shed"...

1) DO I USE IT? 2) DO I NEED IT? 3) DO I LOVE IT?

1) If you haven't used/worn something in the last 12 months.... you should get rid of it unless you need it or unless you love it.....

2) There are things you might not use regularly but still need (old tax records, birth certificate, car titles, etc.)

3) Then there are things you should keep that have significant memories and you treasure (your first dog dish for example). It is easy to "love" too many things, the key is if you love it... you must find a place to display it... if it is stuff away...out of sight.. its not love... its being neglected and abused.

For me, its quite easy to shed, for people... not so much. I've noticed the resident 3 year old won't play with a toy for months... but if my master makes a move to throw/give it away.... suddenly its the most important toy in his collection. My last advice is to "shed" with someone else who isn't so attached to your things, while it might not make the experience easier for you, you will have a lot more success.

--Peak