Tuesday, September 24, 2013

The storm before the calm...

I don't want to frighten you...
... so I'll show you one of the "after" shots first.

But here is a "before" shot. And I have to admit, I was already a good way through the closet purge when this was taken. Had I remembered to take photos when things were REALLY messy, it would have been a Halloween post because it was that scary!
(Almost as scary as the 1980's wallpaper border that STILL wraps around our room as seen in some of the photos!!!)

But I digress. Back to the closet makeover. This was a long overdue project. The closet was crammed full of various sized clothing. I've struggled with my weight since my late30's/early 40's when I hit menopause at a very early age. It's been an ongoing struggle for me, and one that I hope to beat for good this time.


I've lost 43 lbs. since January. By all rights, I should have lost a lot more by now but  there have been several months this year when I've slacked off and not weighed myself daily, or even weekly. I also got lazy with tracking what I was putting in my mouth. Those lazy periods do not serve me well. I really need to stay focused.

But back to the closets. So, yes, it was time to clean out the closet of things that are (thankfully) too big for me now. And with any luck, I'll do another closet makeover once I lose my next 40+ lbs.!

By the way, this is our master bedroom closet. I love the HGTV house hunter shows and always get a chuckle when young couples go into the master bedroom WALK-IN closet and are disappointed that it's on the small side. Oh, to have even the smallest of walk-in closets! This closet used to have accordion doors, but they took up too much space in our small room and also blocked off too much of the inside of the closet when in their open position, so years ago we removed them and hung a curtain...

... which is, in fact, a very old, faded sheet that I'd found in my thrift store travels. It had such a pretty, subtle floral design...

... and scalloped lace trim. 

And on another note, Amanda and I took a fun little road trip the weekend before last and I'll share in an upcoming post. We stopped by a fabulous yard sale along the way where a woman was selling gorgeous potted plants that she had grown. So I picked up a Wandering Jew and a Jade plant to keep my Aloe Vera company. I'm not sure if they'll stay in this window, but for now they make a nice grouping!

Have a great week, everyone, and stay warm if you live somewhere cool! It's gotten VERY chilly here in the New England!!! 

Donna

8 comments:

Connie said...

Hello Donna, I want to be the first to congratulate you . . .
"Hip-Hip- Hooray, 40 lbs!!!"
Bravo . . .
Pretty neat, closet clean out, too :)
Have a glorious day.
Your blogging sister, Connie :)

Art and Sand said...

Closet purging is so tough and I am bad because most of the stuff I removed went to the attic which means I have to purge the attic.

Weight loss is more likely to stay off when you remove it at a slower rate, just like it goes on. Good luck with the next 40.

Betty said...

Congratulations on the weightloss. I know how hard it is to lose the weight. After looking at your closet I think it is time I did mine. Remember that I told you about the kitty my Daughters cat had that was blind. The Vet said whatever it was has cleared up and he can see. They are still keeping it too.

Barb said...

You are my new hero 40 pounds and a clean closet! Wow! I have stared a pre-diabetes program and hope to loose 13 pounds in 16 weeks-more after that but that is the program goal.

Deb @ Frugal Little Bungalow said...

Wow that is wonderful and very full of will power in regards to the weight loss!

I gained when I hit meno time too and yet I still keep the old clothes thinking just in case I drop some weight I'll want the clothes! You are inspiring! :)

NanaDiana said...

You are a brave woman. I REALLY need to do that and get rid of my old "fat" clothes, too. I don't know why I hang on to them like I do.

Love your sweet plants, too-xo Diana

The Old Parsonage said...

First congrats on your weight loss - I know how taking off weight can be impossible at times.

Love the space your have and know what to do with it - you go girl!!

Donna said...

Congratulations! That is quite an accomplishment! And I like your closet organization. I bet you are sighing some relief now that is done! The drape across the closet instead of doors is much more practical - and prettier!