It all began several years ago when I lived in Michigan in a big house with too much stuff accumulated over the years. Too much that I was saving just because I had the space and also for sentimental reasons. It was weighing me down, because I knew that a down size was happening in the near future. I remember being so moved by what my priest said at mass on one Ash Wednesday about how Lent should be looked at as an opportunity to take something on rather than give something up. So, I started practicing that idea and taking on the 40 Bags in 40 Days challenge. Each year during the 40 days of Lent, I filled 40 bags (or boxes) with all kinds of stuff to either donate, sell or trash. And, each year my mind became a little clearer on what is really important. It all culminated in the year we sold our home and moved to Florida and the process was one of the best things I have ever done. I will link previous blog posts if you want more details of how I did it.
Now, as Lent begins, I have very little to get rid of and am extremely careful in what I bring into my new home. If something new comes in, instead of sticking the old item somewhere "just in case", I let it go. Living simply and without clutter gives you room to breathe and live for the present and future. I'm looking for something new to take on this Lenten season that will give me the same feeling of satisfaction. I think some volunteering is in order soon as a repayment to this new city that has given us so much happiness.
Have a wonderful weekend and Go Green on Saturday night! Beat Michigan!
40 Bags in 40 Days 2013
40 Bags in 40 Days 2014
40 Bags in 40 Days 2015
40 Bags in 40 Days 2016
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ReplyDeleteAre we talking Walmart sized bags or garbage bags. I honestly don't think I have 40 garbage bags of stuff to get rid of. Maybe my family will prove me wrong!
ReplyDeleteBoth! It's more about the concept of 40 in 40, so it could also just be 40 individual things. I would just take a room or a drawer each day and be completely brutal on what goes. When you have a big house with lots of storage, you just keep stuff and over 20 years you wonder why at some point.
DeleteI need to start my 40 bags. Thanks for the inspiration, Vicki. Enjoy your weekend.
ReplyDeleteI have four drawers in the house that have at least 40 things to trash. I need to start!!
ReplyDeleteI am doing the 40 things this time (although I'll be behind, given that I'm traveling!)
ReplyDeleteGood for you with the 40 bags project, I did something similar a few years ago, and I felt so good getting things out of the house. I have a big house and need to downsize soon, it is daunting though isn't it? Love the new grand dog.
ReplyDeleteIt's amazing how easy it is to fill the 40 bags once you really take a look at what is around.
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