Weighing Up the Pros and Colandars...

Friday 12 September 2008



Over the last few days I've not really been up to much. I'd love to say I've been out digging up the garden (what garden?) or knitting a scarf for winter (I still haven't got any needles) or even making a nice big batch of muffins to store in the freezer (I never did get the muffin tray)...

What have I been doing?

A bit of procrastinating, a bit of worrying, some moving things from room to room...

I'm feeling a bit like I'm in limbo. We know we are going but we still don't know when. We're dreaming of the day the passports come through the letterbox, so we can book our flights. 

I've spent a lot of time de-cluttering and prioritising what's wanted and what's not, but I've hit a mental block now. Most things we need for daily life to continue so I can't even pack yet (I'm the one that starts packing 6 weeks before I go anywhere!) I need help. I'm not sure what I'm doing...

We have found a company that sends boxes to India for a pound a kilo. The idea is to send what we really love and don't want to get rid of, see my post 'Simplicity Update' for the list. The problem is I've started thinking 'Well if it only weighs a kilo, it only costs a pound to send', so things are being added to the list and weighed and then I stand there in the kitchen in a daze saying to myself 'What am I doing?!'

Now let me explain. We don't have a house yet. It may take a few years to buy a piece of land and build one. So my dilemma is should I send things that I don't really want, but could be useful in the future? There are so many things you can't get, or are expensive to buy in India. I'm mainly talking about kitchenalia...


The 'Obliterator' in me says 'Don't do it!', but the new frugal me says 'You won't get one like that for less than a quid'...


I'm not the slightest bit attached in any way to my colander or cake plate, but I can't help thinking 'what a waste!'...

Then there's the books and toys... I don't have a problem with these. Quality books and toys are hard to come buy in India and with 3 babies to entertain, I know they will be worthwhile sending.

So forgive me whilst I put the kettle on (no that's not going and neither is the kitchen sink!), sit down for a few more minutes and contemplate clutter... I've got so much to do!!

7 comments:

Kate said...

I hope your passports arrive soon and you can focus on the move. I would say...if it is good quality then take it...

I love reading your blog... and am so looking forward to reading about your life in India.

emmani said...

Hi Kate,

I've just realised what your journey is all about!!! I read Olives and Artichokes post today and followed the links... and voila!

What a wonderful idea! You will have a wonderful time and meet some amazing people no doubt!

Have fun....I'll be watching for your updates.

PG said...

I think I would be in the same delimma as you. But, for the kitchen I would surely try to take all the important things, however trivial the may appear right now. But, I think you know that yourself. As things which you are used to using here should be with you there.
Wish you All The Best!

chaiselongue said...

As others have said, I'd take good quality important things, but maybe you'll need completely different - Indian - utensils, etc. when you get there? If you find yourself cooking in a different way, perhaps you won't need the same things as you need now. It's difficult, I know, I only moved from Wales to France, so was able to bring most things. Take the things that really mean something to you, I'd say. I'm really looking forward to hearing all about your life in India.

Jade of the Jungle said...

I'd say only take it if you need it and can't buy it out in India. Your stuff wouldn't have to go to waste, I'm sure there are loads of charities who would love to have things that you can't take.

So interesting to read your back story, btw!! x

Kelly said...

Hi emma, i was too cranky to post yesterday, ditto to everyones comments. Youve lived in india before so you probably have a pretty good idea already what you will really need.

emmani said...

Thanks Guys!
I've decided the easiest thing to do is take nothing! But I do have the right to change my mind again! I probably will....Maybe!