Fulton expert organizer shares experiencing with repurposing, offers tips

Cindy Baker of Fulton listens as an attendee of the Callaway County Public Library event, "De-clutter, Recycle & Re-purpose" shares tips on letting go of household items Tuesday night. Baker, founder of a local all-purpose errand and cleaning company called ErrandRunners, lead the discussion Tuesday and offered solutions on how to de-clutter spaces.
Cindy Baker of Fulton listens as an attendee of the Callaway County Public Library event, "De-clutter, Recycle & Re-purpose" shares tips on letting go of household items Tuesday night. Baker, founder of a local all-purpose errand and cleaning company called ErrandRunners, lead the discussion Tuesday and offered solutions on how to de-clutter spaces.

Local women jump started spring cleaning yesterday as they were given a fresh perspective on pesky items collecting dust at their homes.

The Callaway County Library hosted the event, "De-clutter, Recycle & Re-purpose," led by Cindy Baker of Fulton, who operates ErrandRunners - a local company that fulfills its name with various services including home organizing and cleaning.

Baker started the company in September 2012 when she found that her busy lifestyle meant spending free time messing with a mess.

"I was overwhelmed by stuff in my house," Baker said.

Taking back control of her own space was a key point in her talk Tuesday. When clutter surrounded her, Baker said it was nearly impossible for her to relax.

"You can't just lay on the couch because you feel guilty," Baker said.

When attempting to de-clutter, Baker said a change in mindset is necessary.

Baker said people typically who inherit items from grandparents or parents often treat items, like dishware, with such care they don't bother to use those items. She said people shouldn't be afraid to use inherited items.

"We're using it," Baker said. "Get out the good China. Get out the good crystal ... Why not use it?"

To help the tornado-stricken people of Dumas and surroundings, donations can be made to the Delta Area Disaster Relief Fund, care of the Delta Area Community Foundation, P.O. Box 894, Dumas, AR, 71639, or through the Arkansas Community Foundation, 700 S. Rock St., Little Rock, AR, 72202.