Q: What is your advice to us that tend to hoard “for someday” or “that perfect layout” and then find stuff…out of style, expired, etc.? I do this both in my everyday and creative life. And see myself basically throwing money away, yet can’t seem to stop from buying the coolest and latest scrap stuff (and other items) even though I have more than I need already.

A: Whether we’re talking about scrapbook supplies, shoes, or sweaters, the first step is to get real about what you have, what you need and most of all … what you love. If you don’t love it … loose it! If it’s an old item that you loved once upon a time but don’t anymore … chances are pretty good you won’t love it again … ever.

Here’s the thing … the money is already gone. Holding onto things you know you aren’t going to use, won’t bring the money back. The negative feelings you have about your excess or outdated supplies is taking away from the joy of scrapbooking. Let it go. And as you do, take note of how you feel.

Literally. As you purge outdated items, jot down how you feel on a piece of paper.

Tuck your notes into your wallet for the next time you hit the scrapbook store. Reconnecting with how you felt letting go of supplies may help curb your appetite on the next buying excursion. If you must stock up … stock up on things that are timeless, instead of loading up on things that will go out of style. Once you pair down you may feel a sense of relief and possibly a creative surge. Sometimes the most creative scrapbook pages come from having fewer options and using your supplies in creative and exciting ways.