It must be the pussy willows I saw or the three purple finches at the feeder. It could be the tulips a kind person brought. Just a few things to remind me that spring is just a short time away.So, what did I do? I started on the painful task of throwing stuff out. Maybe I should just say junk. What have I kept all that junk for?I say that and for sure I know someone in this beautiful valley is wearing the cowboy hat I threw out. How did you like the beige felt hat? Looks good on you I am sure.I’ll be darned if I know what you will do with that one red candle. Maybe the old paint brushes will be just the thing you wanted. That glass knob broken off something or other I leave to your imagination. How about those kiddie socks? I bought them for a day care dog but you will find another use I am sure.The books to me are treasures I hate to give up but let’s hope you found something to your liking. Writers manuals, mystery books, nature books and few very out of date calenders.The strange thing is that most of the things I threw out would have been the very item I would have dragged home from the transfer station. Well, everything except that glass knob.Spring cleaning I tell you is not for the faint of heart. I now know because of circumstance in life getting clear of confusion in a living space is that one aspect that will keep me on the straight and narrow. My mother always said “live in confusion and you will be confused”. Well, Mommy dearest, you are right there.So for those of you living with not a clear space to organize your thoughts, start small and have a bit of a clear out. If that is not for you, hang on to your hat since I have started to get rid of more stuff. Your next trip to the dump could find some treasures for you. Old cans of paint, white socks that are not my style. Several pairs of blue jeans you could use for something or other. I have a couple old stereos that you could drag home. You know how it is, one person’s junk is another person’s treasure.Before you rush off to the dump I have to thank you for the calls to 250-846-5095 and the e-mail notes to mallory@bulkley.net.