America is known as the land of plenty and its citizens are certainly known to have a lot of “stuff.” The ever-growing monster known to the modern world as the “junk drawer” no less epitomizes this concept. Usually found in or near the kitchen, this catchall attic, basement, and sometimes sewer can lurk anywhere in the home, and it lives with every family under the sun. The problem is that as the amount of “stuff increases”, the space to put it somewhere diminishes. (This is sometimes known as the “law of diminishing returns” but it is more often called “junk and no place to put it.”)
For those among us who are “clutter-challenged”, the temptation to have all “the important stuff” in one handy place is too much of a temptation to resist. This refuge, however, becomes a growing bin of “refuse” or put another way, those things one refuses to ordain as “refuse.” No one is saying that a flashlight doesn’t belong here or certain home maintenance items, but be discriminating. The drawer will, in the end, understand. Some items no self respecting junk drawer should be without might include:
All purpose Duct Tape: A versatile product with many household uses, this tape is also a must for your next kidnapping/ abduction. Don’t leave home without it (or even take it out of the drawer unless you plan to use it.) It even has its own website if you run out of ideas. (www.duckproducts.com)
Polyseamseal All Purpose Mini: This all-purpose, paintable, adhesive caulk is perfect for any quick fixes. It doesn’t work as quickly as caffeine or a cigarette, but keep trying. You will soon love your “toolbox in a tube.” Also, unlike some children, this product cleans up easily with soap and water. For more info, go to www.polyseamseal.com
Loctit Quicktite Super Glue: A must for all those little slip ups. It’s quick and easy and if you use it in the dark, no one will ever know you broke that figurine. It works on many fabrics as well and more information can be found at: www.loctitproducts.com
WD40: “The can with the thousand uses” is just that. From squeaky doors to quieting backseat drivers with a well-directed sprtiz, there is always something it can be used effectively for. Check out www.wd40.com for more details.
And let your uncle out of the junk drawer. He has places to go and people to see. He doesn’t belong there anyway. But keep some of your bills and important papers mixed in just to keep up the fun. (A passport there is a good idea.) This way, you will always be looking for something, and in the end, isn’t that what life is all about?
What about YOUR junk drawer? Please share.