good doings

I suppose its no secret to those who know me well, know that I do not like clutter or to keep things unused. I am a huuuge advocate of donating. Every six months or so, I go through the house and get rid of bags and bags of stuff that has accumulated. Many make jokes about my habit, but I see it an entirely different way. 

If I'm not using something, enjoying something, or it doesn't have a sentimental value to me, it goes into the Goodwill pile. I always have a Goodwill pile. Sometimes I take one or two things from somewhere in the house. Sometimes I spend a whole day going through certain rooms and drawers. 

My thought process is this... if I haven't used it in a year, worn it in six months, then I don't need it. I'd probably hardly miss it. And you know what, there are so many people out there who would appreciate it. 

I am so incredibly fortunate, more fortunate that many, to have so many wonderful things. Clothes, craft supplies, decorations, home decor, kitchen stuff. I receive so many great things from friends and family for holidays and such (Christmas in our house is outta-control) and I am so entirely grateful. My kids, holy crow, get so much stuff from aunts and uncles and grandparents and great grandparents and friends and just about every body. 

Before every birthday and holiday, I have our kids take a bag and go through their room, their bathroom, their playroom, and their cubbies and fill the bag with things to donate to Goodwill. I've done this every single year with them. I want my kids to realize how incredibly lucky they are. Some kids only get one gift for Christmas, or their birthday. I want them to be in the practice of giving, and giving up their own luxuries for others less fortunate. I want them to know that by giving, you receive so much more in your heart.

I recently went through my closet (one of my six month antics... if I haven't worn it, it goes). The results...

from this...

to this!

I went through the line once, then twice, and came up with a stack of clothes...

mind you, this is just the closet. I also donated 8 pairs of shoes, and went through my drawers. Three bags later! There were so many things that I wasn't wearing because it was out of style, didn't fit, didn't like anymore... several things still  had tags on them.... again, all these things I know someone else will enjoy and use them. Let them bring joy to someone else. Thats what makes my heart happy.