For the second time since retiring, I have reorganized all my drawers, cabinets, and closets. I got rid of a lot two years ago, but had just retired and had no idea how my lifestyle would change. Now I know. This time, I was ruthless.

I wear sweat pants, gym shorts or pajama bottoms just about all the time with a long- or short-sleeved t-shirt and slip-on Skechers. A golf shirt, jeans and lace-up tennis shoes is dressing up. I can’t remember the last time I wore a dress shirt, much less a sports coat or tie.

Clothes in drawers I haven’t opened in two years went straight to the donate pile. I tried on all my pants and shorts, culling any that didn’t fit along with ill-fitting, ugly and otherwise undesirable shirts, jackets and coats. I kept more than I’ll ever wear and still ended up with six big trash bags to donate.

The purge freed up tons of space in my bedroom where it really wasn’t needed. Hanging sweatshirts and other formerly-folded items helped. Figuring out what to move from crowded drawers, cabinets and closets elsewhere in the house was easier than expected.

I didn’t have a fish tank when I retired. The cabinet beneath the aquarium is woefully inadequate. Relocating linens to my bedroom closet freed up space in a hall closet for aquarium stuff. Fish-keeping supplies and parapher are neatly stored in one place rather than scattered all over the house.

The pile shift and purge is nearly complete. A small pile is still in need of a permanent spot. I suspect most of it will go to the garage, currently chocked full of stuff I haven’t used in years.

Having everything organized really floats my boat. I’d like to think another big purge won’t be needed, but know better. Somehow, more comes in than goes out–and I’m not a shopper. Increasing the time between purges is the goal. As always, I’ll keep you posted.