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The Final Countdown


 Well, I did it. I made it through the month of purging.  465 items officially, but since I didn't count most of the stuff I threw away, I would estimate closer to 575-600 things.  There are a number of things I have learned in the process. 


First, I have kept a lot of stupid things.  I came across so many items that genuinely baffled me as to why I kept them.  They had no use, no sentimental value, no reason at all for keeping them, and yet I did.  I would say, even the spaces I went through, I could probably get rid of more, but I am happy with where they are at for now. Once I go through the other spaces in my house, I am sure I will circle back around and get rid of even more.

Second, it was much easier getting rid of things than I thought it would be.  I have purged items before, but never in such quantities. I attempted this challenge once before but I don't think I even made it through the first week. Excuses and time just got the best of me - ironically, I have even less time now than I did back then, but I got it done. 

Third, the spaces I created made it completely worth it. I can now walk into my closet freely without climbing or leaning over a bunch of stuff.  I can open my other closet and actually fit all of our blankets in it, plus nothing falls out when I open the doors. This morning, I was able to put away all of my towels without having to wedge them into the cabinet, slam the door shut and hope for the best.  It's the little things and it's wonderful!

Fourth, and by far the most important, I'M NOT DONE YET.  July 1st will bring the next round of elimination.  I think I may follow the traditional rules this time (1 item on the 1st, 2 on the 2nd, 3 on the 3rd, etc) just to better prepare myself for what is coming, but I had a blast with the random numbers as well.   

Overall, this has been a positive experience and I'm looking forward to doing more. The value of more space, less chaos, more time with less stuff to take care of, is immeasurable.

I would be thrilled if people wanted to join me for the month of July - check in with me, I'll check in with you, we can keep each other accountable!  Let's do this!  

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