I’ve written several times about the book, The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning. It’s charming and practical and a bit naughty- so it might show up again. But for now, let’s talk about “theft cleaning” which isn’t when your house is robbed clean. It’s about cleaning out your pocketbook (ok, purse, handbag, manbag… whatever you want to call it) and making note of what should stay.
Why? Two reasons that both seem valid. First, as clean ups go, this one is quick and easy. Second, if your pocketbook is snatched, recovering from the theft will be easier. And the same would be true if the bag goes missing through the fault of no one but you.
This true story compelled me to act. A good friend’s purse was snatched from her car in broad daylight, in a busy grocery store parking lot, in a nice, safe neighborhood. Using the front passenger door, she put her groceries and purse on the front seat, shut the door and rounded the car to get in the driver’s seat. Before she could back out, a thief opened the passenger door, snatched her purse, jumped into his car, and sped away. Putting something in your car before you put yourself in shouldn’t a risky behavior, but this incident proves differently. My friend knows that despite the police report, her pocketbook is never to be seen again. She’s channeled her ire into a cancelling cards, replacing cards, license, key fob, glasses and all the other things that she needs.
I’m not in the business of writing about criminal activity, but my friend suggested that her misfortune could have been lessened by remembering Rules. Having a good record of all the important cards in your wallet- account numbers and numbers to call to report them missing will lessen anxiety and hassle. Lessen, not eliminate, so I’ll add to her suggestion. Purging the all the unnecessary stuff from your pocketbook means less to lose if you’re forgetful or unlucky.
It’s easier to find what you’re looking for when you’ve edited what you’re toting. Nature abhors a vacuum. A cavernous bag that holds everything but the kitchen sink will break your back while you’re carrying it and break your heart when it’s lost or stolen. A small bag that holds only essentials ensures you leave the kitchen sink in the kitchen. My well-used leather pocketbook was advertised as a petit version of the classic French plumber’s bag. Theirs were by necessity bigger to hold all the tools they’d need to repair the kitchen sinks that the French women had wisely left at home.
So start with an easy one. Theft cleaning then tackle death cleaning. Cheers!