Less is More

Had a busy holiday weekend, as I'm sure everyone did. Besides the shopping, wrapping, cooking, cleaning, work, church, and time with family and friends, I got rid of more "stuff!" I spent the 26th and 27th cleaning out the linen closet and the master bedroom and our clothes closet. I have filled my trash bin from the city 3 times since I started this project. I now have 7 boxes of clothing and household goods to donate to charity. It feels FABULOUS!! I now just need to clear out the guest room & closet, the attic, and the office/"man room," which is the catch-all room. The attic and the man room will be the hardest jobs because they have the most stuff, but my success so far is very motivating! My spirit (and the house!) get lighter with every room completed. Now on to lighten the body!

Losing and Gaining

In addition to my weight issues and my husband's health and unemployment concerns, I have been dealing with some other problems. I have had a problem with holding on to too much "stuff." Over the last several years I suffered a series of losses and crises, and began to see possessions as associated with people and love and emotions. Of course, some things are precious and are intimately tied to memories, but some things need to be passed on to someone who needs it or can enjoy it. I have begun the process of clearing these items and my house out.

I have cleared out my kitchen, laundry area, dining room, living room, and bathroom so far. I have shredded about a ton of old papers, and have filled 3 boxes to give to charity. It feels so good! The sense of accomplishment feels great, and I even feel lighter, like I have lost weight! (I am sure the house feels that way!☺)

Making progress on this goal gives me motivation to get serious about my other goals. I want to get closer to God and be more open to people. I need to eat less and more healthily. I need to go for a walk every day. I want to eliminate my debt. I want to organize my house (after I've gotten rid of all this extra stuff.) 12 months from now, if I am still here by God's will, that is where I want to be.