40 Days of Less Stuff: Update Vol 2

The world is a crazy place right now. I don’t have control over much but I can control what goes on in my home. And one thing I’ve been working on this Lenten season has been getting rid of the things in my home that no longer serve me.

In addition to the international emergency going on, my father has also been since (non-coronavirus illness) and things have been really adding up. I may or may not have had a small melt down over toilet paper that had nothing to do with toilet paper. I was simply feeling overwhelmed.

Regardless of what else you have going on in your life, this is scary stuff. Anything you can do to help you have a better sense of your supplies and therefore your preparedness, is a good thing in my book.

My Pantry

I feel so good about how my pantry came out and it brought me some serious peace. There was some foods that I had wanted to stock up on but haven’t been able to find. The act of emptying, deep cleaning, and reorganizing what I had was massively therapeutic and helped me feel like I am much more prepared that I realized I was.

I stopped focusing on the fact that I couldn't certain items and starting be grateful for all the food I had on hand and the food I was able to get from my grocery stores. I feel like I can feed Thomas, myself, and the dogs for at least two weeks, if not more.

Fridge and Freezer

This didn't take long but while I was in the kitchen, I figured I should check in on the fridge and freezer, too. I tossed some expired condiments and left overs that had migrated to the way back. I made room for all of the things I got to make it through the next week or so. Again, this helped me feel more at peace.

Reusable Shopping Bags

My reusable shopping and produce bags live in my pantry so I used this opportunity to let go of a few that were in tough shape. I definitely have more than I need but as they don’t take up much space, I kept some in anticipating of others eventually falling apart from use. I didn’t want to throw away any of my excess bags that are in good shape still because that felt pretty wasteful. So, I set some aside to put donations in as I continue to declutter throughout the house.

Spice Cabinet

This was simply a matter of making sure everything was in date. I also refigured things to make it easier to find what I’m looking for by storing green herbs, baking/sweets, and savory powders in groups. This wasn’t a big win like my pantry but again, knowing what you have and knowing where to find what you need is just as important that decluttering.

I also noticed some duplicate items that were like a result of not being able to find what I need. I am currently researching some cabinet risers so I can more clearly see what I have in the back.

Linen Closet

This was an area that I had not even had on my list but like the fridge and freezer but the change in the world made me realize it was a necessity. This closet was so out of control. It was important for me to go through and see what I had instead of rushing out and panic buying things I didn’t need. Thankfully, I was fairly well stocked up on the essentials like first aid, toothpaste, and basic medicines for treating colds and flus.

I got rid of some expired medications, really old hair products, and mystery lip balms. Seriously though, I had so many and I have no idea how old they were so out they went.

I’m loving how it came out but know I still need to declutter my towels and linens as well as my hot tools but I’m going to be stuck at home a lot for the foreseeable future so I’m pacing myself.

If you are following along, how are you doing in your project? If you are just joining me, it’s not too late to make a difference!

If you are struggling because of the pandemic, I am here you. Leave requests for good thoughts and prayers in the comments below.

And just for fun, tell me your favorite isolation snack!