Those lingering items you're just not sure what to do with...

I am in a few online forums that discuss minimalism.

I've noticed a huge trend in newbies to berate themselves up for accumulating. That is wasted energy.

However, I admit to having a few items loitering that should have moved down the road years ago. Here is a list I've used for putting items in hands that will use them:

Schools: working pens, pencils, notebook paper, file folders, post it notes, scissors, zip lock bags, used crayons, ANY TYPE of storage tubs no longer needed (gallon ice cream tubs, margarine tubs, to 15 gallon plastic tubs for storage, etc.), binders, back packs, pen bags, . Art teachers love L-3XL button up shirts and old magazines. Coaches can always use sports equipment. Counselors will take CLEAN clothing, shoes, and unused toiletries for students who might be in a temporary transition (moved to a safe shelter or a family who lost a house in a fire).

Animal Shelters: office supplies (they often have little to no budget for paper and pens), blankets (not crocheted or knitted as animals tend to chew them), collars, leashes, brushes, toys, cages, kennels, and carriers.

Libraries: pre-cut scratch paper, DVDs in original cases, CDs and Books on CD in original cases. My library has "TAKE ONE, LEAVE ONE" mini libraries all over town. You can always drop off a handful in one of those locations. Empty DVD cases, empty CD cases, Some children's programs will have Library Kits which are centered around a theme and can use small toys associated with a theme, such as butterflies. It might have a book on CD, 5 regular books, a butterfly puppet, butterfly stamps, a magnifying glass for children to go out and explore their own backyard.

Pregnancy Aide and Adoption Centers: Many of these non-profits might not take great-conditioned toys, clothing, or furniture, but they know of places to send you. Many children are in foster care and need basic necessities. What a wonderful gift to not only the children themselves, but the caregivers who are overseeing the physical, emotional, and social needs of these precious ones.

Women's shelters (accepted items can vary, please check with your local non-profit): clothing and shoes for all ages and sizes, baby items (from newborn to toddler), unused toiletries, furniture for safe houses.

Churches: Bibles, religious sheet music, musical equipment, furniture, specialty items used in their nursery or youth groups (toys, sports equipment, and see the school list above).

Food Banks: Edible canned and boxed food. Some food banks will accept expired food, while others will not. If you have a surplus of food, household items (tissues, toilet paper, cleaners, etc.), or toiletries, a local church might be a great resource to get your overstock into hands of a person who needs it for dinner tonight.

Senior Citizen Center: Many centers can use newer technology such as computers, laptops, and printers. Some may still use VHS tapes and family friendly movies, documentaries, and aerobics videos. They often have libraries, play games (from bingo to ping pong), enjoy puzzles, and many have dinning halls so they could use kitchen items. Some might have garden centers or tool shops. Contact your local center to see what items would be welcomed and used.

Scouting, Campfire and Trail Life USA Troops: Each troupe might be looking for specific items, but we have handed off patches, uniforms, camping equipment (from cooking utensils and tents to sleeping bags and cots), guide books, medicine kits, and outdoor furniture.

Here are some harder to re-locate items:

Used toiletries and perfumes can be accepted by resale or thrift shops.

Chemicals, old construction materials, tires, electronics: Contact your local sanitation department. They will accept many items and can offer information for doing so safely.

Wedding gowns: Angel Gowns is a program where wedding dresses are fashioned for deceased infants. Check your local NIC unit for information to contact--and perhaps this would be a great volunteer opportunity for some of our seamstresses!

Antiques: Auction houses will take as much or as little as you have to offer and will take a straight percentage of the sale. Call 3-5 dealers to get payment fees and don't be afraid to ask for references.

Furniture: Post pictures on your social media pages with a simple advert and to have friends of friends contact you. Also, contact your local library, school, women's shelter, pregnancy aide center, and senior citizen center for specific items. With items that are more beat up, my all-time favorite is what I call Redneck Recycling. Place items on your curb with a sign that says FREE or TAKE ME.

Broken machinery, motors, and non-working appliances & parts: Local businesses will often take items to use for parts. They can resell the items or refurbish appliances to re-sell.

What is one item you can now re-home?