A few days ago, I put away my winter clothes and brought in my spring and summer clothes. The change of the seasons is a bi-annual tradition for my closet, but this time I felt sad. The next time I perform the ritual, I’ll be cleaning out and packing up my closet for good; and I’ll be getting rid of some clothes and shoes I cherish.
When it comes to possessions, my books will be the hardest things for me to give away or to sell. Deciding which ones to take with me will be like selecting favorites from your children. Perhaps I’m being a bit melodramatic, but you get the picture. I love my books.
As much as I hate to admit it, I’m attached to my clothes and shoes just like the next woman. Deciding what to take with me and what to leave behind will be hard. Rearranging my closet was just another reminder of my transitioning life. In a way, I think I have begun to start to grieve my old life. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still super excited about the next phase of my life, but change is change; whether good or bad, it’s always challenging.
Adventures in Living 
kudos on the major pare-down! (and glad you’re keeping the blue dress – stunning!)
🙂
When I have a clear out, I give my old clothes and books to charity shops – it makes it easier to part with them (especially the books!) knowing that a) the charity will benefit from the donation and b) the goods will hopefully end up bringing pleasure to someone else. Exciting times for you though, and you’re right, change is always challenging xx
We know what you are feeling Nicole. We had a major purge before we went to India – letting go of some of our ‘treasures’ was very hard but three years down the track life is much less cluttered for us. You are in our prayers as you continue your journey.
Grace and Peace
Gary and Lynn Wallis
Thanks, Gary and Lynn. I would appreciate any tips you may have for me about de-cluttering. Did you still wind up taking more than you need when you moved to India?
Nicole, we indeed did take far too much for our situation especially clothes. Think about the community you are going to live with and work with. What possessions do you need for that to happen? Probably not much except an open heart and a willingness to participate in community.
Remember that if if take less you can get more if you really need it but if you have more we find it incredibly difficult to get rid of the excess.
Go lean and enjoy the freedom it gives.
Love from us to you – we must meet one day 🙂
Although I know this in my brain, it is helpful to hear. I tend to be a bit of a pack rat, so it will be hard to scale down; but I know in the end, I will enjoy living with less. Yes, we must meet someday! I miss k.t. too. Perhaps I can come and visit you all someday.