Yup, I’m at it again!
Everything you see here {and lots more} is going…going…GONE. It feels great!
I know, I just purged a bunch of stuff 2 months ago…but that was a mini purge!
This is bigger — MUCH bigger.
I usually start feeling antsy about how much “stuff” I have every time the seasons change…which is why I took 2 hours this week and ruthlessly went through my closet and my dresser drawers; purging anything and everything I don’t need, want, use, or love.
Many of the items were quick decisions but some where heart wrenching {like a pair of nearly new peep-toe shoes that are so cute…but just not practical}. See, I get attached to my stuff too!
Anyway, after I purged, I gave myself 2 full days to think about my decisions before I brought everything away to the donation center this morning. I did end up pulling out one pair of black pants and one sweater…but I’m pretty impressed with the SEVEN large garbage bags of clothing and accessories we got rid of {yes, I made my husband go through his stuff too!}
Honestly, my closet and dresser are pretty empty right now, it’s glorious! And with the holiday season lurking just around the corner, I’m ready for a few new items — maybe even a few gifts {ahem}!
75 days and counting…
Christin says
I am wondering if while you are purging so many things, do you feel as if you are having to repurchase them again because you may need it or miss it later? Many times after I have gotten rid of something I find myself searching for it some time later. I think this is part of my problem in being able to purge.
Andrea says
Honestly Christin, I’ve only regretted 1 or 2 purges in my entire life! I’d much rather have space now than hold onto stuff for “what if I might need it later”. However, you are in the majority! I always say, there are 2 types of clutter: 1. Emotional Clutter and 2. What if I need it Clutter. It’s difficult to get rid of things you paid money for or things that are in good condition yet.
Just remember to ask yourself if you love it, if you need it, and if you actually use it. If you can’t answer yes to all three of those questions, I’d consider purging. Hope this helps!
Suzanne says
I love your sense of purging! I just took a bunch of things to consignment, then Goodwill yesterday, with exactly that in mind. I too, feel like if I don’t love something and want to wear it all the time, I don’t want to have it, even if I could wear it one or two times here and there. I just did a little shopping the last few days to replenish, even though I really can’t afford it, as it was just needed, really needed for those essentials.
I just found your blog through WFMW, and have to say, I LOVE it! I just made a little dedication to it on my blog as well the other day. Thanks for all your inspiring thoughts!
Kim says
I’ve been in the declutter mode! It is freeing! I’m really taking that , “If I don’t love it or need it approach, then it is gone.” Here is one of my dilema’s – I keep thinking, “this was worth something at one time – I wonder if I should sell it?” Yet, garage sale season is almost over and I just want to be gone with the stuff, but it would be nice to have a little extra Christmas money. Selling small things on Craigslist seems like a lot of work. Any thoughts?
Andrea says
Oh Kim, I’m so glad you feel the same way about purging…I LOVE it!!!
And I’m right there with you, I just want to get it out of my house NOW. I never do garage sales b/c they are SO much work…but I do sell quite a bit of stuff on Craigslist. However, I agree that trying to sell smaller items on Craigslist is not the best use of my time.
When it comes to clothing, I usually let my 2 sisters pick through my stuff first, then I bring anything that is in good condition to a local consignment shop. They do all the work and I still get 50% of the selling price. I let them donate whatever doesn’t sell after two months.
This way, the stuff is out of my house immediately, I don’t have to do any extra work, and I still recoup a bit of my costs. It’s a win-win situation and it seems to be the best method for me.
I know there are consignment shops for teen clothing (Plato’s Closet) and for baby items as well.
Hope this helps!
Jen @ BigBinder says
Awesome!! I have been so busy I haven’t had time to get the stuff out of my house. It drives me insane to have stuff hanging around that I’ve decided to get rid of. OK I’m totally making time for purging this week, AND driving it to Mel Trotter no matter how busy I am. It’s the BEST feeling!!
Kristia@FamilyBalanceSheet says
I have been on a bit of a purging rampage myself. I like your idea of waiting a few days before taking the stuff to the donation center. I have gotten rid of a few things in the past that I regretted.