(Reserve Spring Break Tickets ASAP!) The Celebration of the Year Is Here! Join the 65th Anniversary Fun at Six Flags Over Texas!

This year, the excitement is bigger than ever as Six Flags kicks off its 65th anniversary season, and we were lucky enough to be there on opening day to experience all the magic! In my personal experience as a mom, there’s nothing quite like the joy of taking your kids to Six Flags Over Texas. From the rush of world-class roller coasters to little moments of laughter shared over a meal or sweet treat, the park has always been a special place for creating memories that last a lifetime.  This is one of the best times to visit because they recently reopened for their 65th anniversary celebration where they made some major upgrades to the park!

A Fresh Start at the Renovated Star Mall
Our day began at the recently renovated Star Mall, and it immediately set the tone for an incredible day. The updated space is bright, welcoming, and filled with the energy that only Six Flags can deliver. The Star Mall, where the Silver Star Carousel is located, has refreshed theming and restoration to its original signage.

 

Walking through the Star Mall, you can feel the multimillion-dollar reinvestment the park has made to enhance rides, food, entertainment venues, and the overall guest experience. It’s clear that this 65th anniversary isn’t just a celebration—it’s the start of a new era of Texas-sized fun for families.

One feature I especially love as a parent is the digital screens that display estimated wait times for each ride. On opening day, we truly lucked out — the weather was beautiful and breezy, and even better, we had our pick of rides without waiting in line when the park opened. Wait times stayed relatively short throughout the day, and it was so helpful to glance at the screens and plan our next stop accordingly.

We also highly recommend grabbing Fast Passes. Six Flags continues to offer family-friendly pricing on them, and they genuinely make the day even more enjoyable. Fast Passes simplify planning, keep the kids happy, and help you fit in as many rides as possible.

Cool Walkthroughs and Photo-Worthy Stops

One of our first stops was the Mr. Freeze attraction. This newly re-imagined ride is a hotspot at the park! Walking through the immersive, chilled environment was the perfect way to cool off and snap some fun photos. My kids loved exploring the frosty tunnels and taking silly pictures—it’s these little moments that turn a day at the park into lasting memories. I won't spoil any further details, but I will say that it was incredible!

The newly refreshed Pirate Spelunkers ride at Six Flags Over Texas has received impressive animatronic and scenic improvements that make the adventure feel more immersive than ever. I felt so much more depth to the experience. 

I don’t want to spoil too many surprises, but let’s just say it’s absolutely amazing and even more fun for families to experience together!

Southern Palace Theatre: A Showstopper
The Southern Palace Theatre has been fully renovated this year. With new seating, upgraded audio and lighting, and mechanical functions, it’s now a premier indoor performance venue in the park. From high-quality seasonal productions to brand-new shows, it’s a perfect spot to sit back and enjoy a break while still being immersed in park fun.

A Taste of Something New 

Food is a big part of the Six Flags experience, and this year it is better than ever. We sampled some of the new menu items created by Six Flags’ executive chef, and I have to say—it is nothing short of delicious! For instance, I learned that I am obsessed with funnel cake fries! 

My kids also love the NY style pizza!

From the hand-dipped Texas Corndogs to indulgent desserts at Smith Street Ice Cream Parlor, I could easily plan a trip just for the food alone. 

Roller Coasters, Classic Rides, and World Records
This season is packed with new thrills and refreshed classics. Classic attractions received updated theming and improved performance mechanics.  And the big news? Later this year, the park will debut Tormenta Rampaging Run, a giga dive coaster that will break six world records. It’s going to be epic, and I can already picture the pure excitement on my kids’ faces when they ride it. Here’s what makes it so special:
Tormenta Rampaging Run – Breaking Six World Records

1. Tallest Dive Coaster — 309 feet above the ground
2. Highest 95-Degree Beyond Vertical Drop — 285 feet
3. Fastest Dive Coaster — speeds up to 87 mph
4. Highest Immelmann Inversion — 218 feet
5. Tallest Vertical Coaster Loop — 179 feet
6. Longest Dive Coaster Track Length — 4,199 feet

This coaster is truly a game-changer for thrill-seekers and a must-experience attraction for families visiting in 2026.

 

Entertainment for Every Age
Six Flags is about more than just rides. This year, the park is debuting several new shows perfect for kids and families:

• Gazillion Bubbles Show – bubble artistry and upbeat music
• The Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience – high-energy rescue dog stunts and family comedy
• Western Daze – a marionette show inspired by classic western performances
• Celebrate! – a musical revue honoring six decades of park history
• Miss Cameo Kate’s Western Burle Q Revue – lively western musical fun
• Brad Ross International Star Illusionist – mesmerizing magic for kids and adults

These shows are perfect breaks between rides. My kids were completely captivated, and I loved enjoying a moment to watch them experience pure wonder.
Be Part of Six Flags History

Be Part of History
One of the coolest ways to celebrate the 65th anniversary is by being a part of park history. Guests can purchase name-engraved pavers, which will be placed near the Silver Star Carousel in Star Mall. Pavers start at $125 and serve as a permanent memento of your visit. It’s a wonderful way to commemorate a family trip, celebrate a special occasion, or simply leave your mark on this iconic Texas landmark.
Seasonal Festivals and Special Events

They also have fun 65th anniversary items in their shops. Here are a few of our favorites.

  
The 65th anniversary season is packed with seasonal events and festivals. We recommend buying season passes because (a) they provide family-friendly pricing and (b) there are great reasons to visit throughout the year! From Spring Break Week in March to Star Spangled Nights in July and the Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park celebrations, there’s always something exciting happening. Whether it’s a family day, a date night with your spouse, or a fun outing with friends, Six Flags Over Texas offers endless ways to escape everyday life and enjoy something special. 

 
Create Memories That Last
For me, the magic of Six Flags Over Texas is seeing my kids’ faces light up over a roller coaster, a show, or even a sweet treat. Laughter fills the air, families bond over shared thrills, and childhood memories are created in real time. With the renovated spaces, the new executive chef menu, the classic ride enhancements, and the upcoming Tormenta coaster breaking six world records, this season is shaping up to be one for the books.

Whether it’s a day of pure thrill, a casual stroll with photo ops, or a fun date night, Six Flags Over Texas is a place where fun, laughter, and family memories collide. Don’t miss out—join the 65th anniversary celebration and make your next trip a memory your family will cherish for years to come!

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Spring break is just around the corner. You'll want to get your passes asap before they sell out! Plan Your Visit and Get Tickets for Six Flags Over Texas!

 

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Don’t Miss THE OPTIMIST — A True Story That Will Stay With You Long After the Credits Roll #TheOptimistMovie #TheOptimistMovieRWM

This is a sponsored post on behalf of Review Wire Media for Trafalgar Releasing.

Some films entertain. Some inform. And every so often, one arrives that quietly transforms the way we see resilience, connection, and hope. THE OPTIMIST is that kind of film.

Releasing nationwide on March 11, 2026 through Trafalgar Releasing, THE OPTIMIST tells a deeply moving true story about survival, silence, friendship, and the extraordinary healing power of being truly seen.

If you follow regularly, you know that I enjoy watching movies that drive discussion with my kids. Stories like the one in THE OPTIMIST feel especially important to experience together. Watching films rooted in real history opens the door to conversations that might not otherwise happen around the dinner table. My teen has always been drawn to history — for better or worse — and when a story like this comes to life on screen, it sparks thoughtful questions about the world around us, about human behavior, about resilience, and about the choices people make in impossible circumstances. Those conversations matter. They help our kids process the past, understand the present, and think more deeply about who they want to be. For me, using a conversation guide really makes this movie even better for families who want to reflect.  I'd love for you to check it out here because it's pretty amazing for a family discussion!

At its heart of the movie is Herbert Heller, a Holocaust survivor who, at just 15 years old, escaped the Auschwitz-Birkenau death march. After enduring unimaginable horrors, Herbert carried his trauma quietly for six decades. His silence was not uncommon among survivors. For years, he chose to protect others — and perhaps himself — from the weight of his memories.

When Herbert finally breaks that silence, something remarkable happens. He forms an unlikely bond with Abby, a troubled teenager grappling with her own pain. What begins as two lives intersecting becomes a transformative, life-saving friendship. Together, they discover that healing is not about erasing the past, but about sharing it — about connection, honesty, and the courage to speak.

This is not simply a story about history. It is a story about now. It is about trauma, mental health, generational understanding, and the possibility of hope even after profound darkness.

A Story Developed with Care and Integrity

Directed by Finn Taylor and produced by Jeanine Thomas, THE OPTIMIST was more than a decade in the making. Jeanine Thomas first met Herbert before his passing in 2021, and this film represents the fulfillment of a promise to honor his truth and preserve his legacy.

Herbert devoted his later years to education, sharing his testimony with thousands of students nationwide. He believed deeply in the responsibility of bearing witness — not to dwell in darkness, but to prevent history from repeating itself and to encourage compassion across generations.

Bringing that kind of real-life story to the screen requires both sensitivity and strength, and the cast delivers powerfully.

Stephen Lang portrays Herbert with dignity, restraint, and emotional depth. Known for commanding roles, Lang calls this performance a profound privilege — and many are already describing it as career-defining. Opposite him, Elsie Fisher plays Abby with vulnerability and authenticity, capturing the complexity of adolescence and mental health struggles with honesty and compassion.

The ensemble cast includes:

• Luke David Blumm

• Leah Pipes

• Ben Geurens

• Ursula Parker

• Slavko Sobin

• Stella Stocker

• Oskar Hes

• Robin Weigert

The film’s visual storytelling is guided by cinematographers Antonio Riestra and Alexander Surkala, with editing by Kaufmanova Olina and Rick LeCompte. Every element works together to create an intimate, respectful, and emotionally resonant experience.

A Film That Gives Back

What sets THE OPTIMIST apart even further is its commitment to extending impact beyond the screen.

The film is deeply rooted in two meaningful causes:

• KAVOD, which supports Holocaust survivors living in poverty, ensuring they are cared for with dignity in their later years.

• Bring Change to Mind, a national nonprofit empowering youth to end the stigma around mental health and create open, supportive conversations.

These partnerships reflect the very heart of Herbert’s story — honoring survivors while supporting the mental well-being of today’s youth. Contributions connected to the film help expand its mission of education, compassion, and tangible change.

In a time when so many stories fade quickly, this is a film intentionally built to matter.

Why This Story Matters Now

We are living in a moment where conversations about mental health are more important than ever. Teen anxiety, depression, and isolation are real and rising. At the same time, the generation that survived the Holocaust is dwindling. Their firsthand testimonies are becoming fewer with each passing year.

THE OPTIMIST bridges these two realities in a powerful way. It reminds us that trauma does not discriminate by generation — and that healing often begins when we listen.

For families with teens, this is a meaningful opportunity to open dialogue. For educators, it’s a story rooted in historical truth and contemporary relevance. For anyone who believes in the transformative power of human connection, this film delivers something deeply personal and profoundly hopeful.

Director Finn Taylor said, “Herbert’s story shows how one person can change countless lives.” That sentiment echoes throughout the film. Herbert’s choice to speak after decades of silence didn’t just free him — it impacted thousands. And through this movie, his voice continues to reach even more.

Mark Your Calendar

THE OPTIMIST opens nationwide on March 11, 2026. This is the kind of film you do not want to wait to stream months later. It deserves the big screen — the shared silence of a theater, the collective emotion of an audience experiencing something meaningful together.

It is more than a historical drama. It is more than an intergenerational friendship story. It is a reminder that hope can coexist with sorrow. That courage can surface after silence. And that one relationship can truly alter the course of a life.

If you are looking for a film that is thoughtful, timely, and rooted in real human resilience, make plans to see THE OPTIMIST.

Because some stories deserve to be witnessed — and Herbert Heller’s is one of them.

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Hurry! The Epic Waters Spring Break Deal is Selling Out Quickly!

Spring Break is just around the corner, and if you have not made plans yet, this is your friendly reminder to book now before tickets sell out. If you are in North Texas and want something that feels like a vacation without ever leaving town, you need to experience Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark in Grand Prairie, TX. Spoiler alert — our day was epic, and we are also going to point you to an incredible deal to book your Spring Break tickets at Epic Waters and score free access to the Epic Circus Spectacular, too.

One of the biggest reasons Epic Waters is such a Spring Break win is simple: the weather is always perfect. While March in North Texas can be unpredictable, inside the park it is a sunny, comfortable 82 degrees every single day. No wind. No cold fronts. No last-minute cancellations. Just guaranteed waterpark fun under their incredible 40-panel retractable roof that fills the space with natural light. It feels bright, cheerful, and vacation-ready the second you walk in.

Epic Waters has earned national recognition from USA Today, Newsweek, and most recently Travel + Leisure, and after spending the day there, I completely understand why. It genuinely feels like a cruise ship on land. There is always something happening, something new to try, and something for every personality in your family.

I have to start with the FlowRider because it was hands-down my favorite part of the day. Yes, mine. I loved it. I will be inserting photos because it deserves the spotlight.

The trainers were phenomenal with both the kids and me. They were patient, encouraging, and incredibly skilled at breaking down the basics so we could actually improve with each try. 

There is something so energizing about attempting to surf — even in an indoor waterpark — and the support from the staff made it even more fun. Watching the kids gain confidence and then taking my own turn made it feel interactive and empowering, not intimidating. It was one of those experiences where you laugh, cheer each other on, and instantly want to go back for another round.

We also floated the Lazy River — the longest in North Texas — more times than I can count. It is the kind of attraction where you say, “One more lap,” over and over again. If you want to make the day extra special, you can reserve a cabana overlooking the Lazy River and have your own little home base while the kids rotate between attractions. 

The kids splash area deserves its own moment because it is generously packed with fun. There are three slides built right in, countless fixtures spraying water from every direction, and the iconic giant bucket that slowly fills and then dramatically dumps water onto the crowd below. The anticipation builds as kids gather underneath, squealing and waiting for the splash. That bucket drop moment is pure fun!

Now let’s talk about what makes this Spring Break visit truly unbeatable: the Epic Circus Spectacular is included with admission. You are not just getting a waterpark day. You are getting a full entertainment experience.

The circus performances were absolutely incredible. The acts were show-stopping. I don't want to spoil too many surprises, so I'll share just a few. The photo below is a woman spinning 25 hula hoops at once — it was mesmerizing to watch. 

There was a father-and-son duo riding dirt bikes inside a metal sphere, circling and crossing paths in a way that had the entire audience holding their breath. 

And honestly? It is the perfect excuse to grab popcorn or cotton candy and lean into the fun. Watching my son with cotton candy in hand, completely captivated by the performers, was one of those sweet Spring Break memories you wish you could freeze in time. The circus elevated the entire experience and made it feel like two big outings wrapped into one epic day.

The arcade was another highlight. My youngest hit a 500-ticket jackpot and was absolutely thrilled. An employee even playfully challenged him to a game and offered a prize if he won. The staff throughout the park were upbeat, attentive, and genuinely fun. That kind of energy makes a difference. It makes the day feel welcoming and personal.

From a parent perspective, the logistics are easy. Epic Waters offers free parking and a courtesy trolley. They have convenient digital lockers.  I love the free Wi-Fi. 

There is also an onsite store, plenty of food options, plus a full-service bar with beer, wine, and signature cocktails for adults. It feels thoughtfully designed for families who want a full day of entertainment without stress.

And of course, Wobbles the lovable duck mascot made surprise appearances throughout the day, adding even more personality to an already lively atmosphere.

If you are planning Spring Break, do not wait to get tickets because they may sell out. The combination of perfect indoor weather, nationally recognized water attractions, and the included circus performance makes this one of the most exciting family options in North Texas. Peak days can sell out, and this is absolutely the kind of experience families will be booking quickly.

Spring Break should feel exciting, effortless, and memorable. Epic Waters delivers all of that under one bright, retractable roof. It is waterpark thrills, circus wonder, arcade victories, and family laughter all rolled into one incredibly epic day.

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(Win it!) A Powerful New Film We Encourage Every Family to See: Still Hope (In Theaters February 5) #StillHopeMIN #StillHope #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Many thanks to Studio 523 for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

At Trendy Mom Reviews, we’re passionate about sharing experiences that matter—especially ones that open hearts, spark important conversations, and make a real-world impact. Still Hope is one of those films.

Opening in theaters February 5, Still Hope is a powerful and deeply moving story where awareness meets compassion and recovery begins. Freedom, as this film beautifully shows, is just the beginning.

Why Still Hope Matters
Inspired by true stories, Still Hope follows the journey of Hope, a teenager from a close-knit community whose life takes a terrifying turn when someone she believes is a new friend proves unsafe. Taken from everything she knows, Hope is forced into sex trafficking and stripped of her identity.

When she finally finds freedom, Hope discovers that survival is only the first step. Her journey forward—marked by courage, healing, and resilience—offers a powerful illustration of what recovery truly looks like.

This is not just a movie—it’s an invitation to see, understand, and care.

Check out the trailer:

How Your Ticket Makes a Difference
One of the reasons we’re encouraging our readers to support Still Hope is that a portion of ticket proceeds will directly benefit organizations that care for victims of human trafficking. By purchasing a ticket, you’re not only seeing an impactful film—you’re helping shine a light on the fight against trafficking and amplifying the hope this story was created to share.

Join Us in Supporting This Film
We believe stories have the power to change perspectives and inspire action. Still Hope does exactly that, while honoring the strength and dignity of survivors.

Buy tickets today and see Still Hope in theaters starting February 5!
Together, we can support meaningful storytelling, raise awareness, and help hope reach further.

Get your tickets here.

Win it!

We'd love for you to spread word about this movie.  We encourage you to spread the word and enter for a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card. Enter using the Giveaway Tools widget below. We'll share the winner's contact information with our sponsor who will fulfill the prize directly.

Entry-Form

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Thank You - We Won the Grand Prize in a Blogger Competition! Gaylord Texan's ICE! created happy memories and now SummerFest is just around the corner!

We have the best news, and it’s all thanks to you!

A huge THANK YOU to our readers for visiting Gaylord Texan Resort and purchasing tickets to ICE! using our special reader discount. We’re so grateful for your support—and we’re thrilled to share that we won the blogger competition for generating the most ICE! ticket sales!

This truly means the world to us. When you choose to visit the destinations we recommend and love, you’re not only making amazing family memories—you’re also supporting the work we do here. We don’t take that lightly, and we are so thankful for this incredible community.

And the fun at Gaylord Texan is far from over…

If you’re planning your summer adventures, be sure to add this one to your list. Paradise Springs Water Park is absolutely amazing, the Texas-themed hotel is stunning and immersive, and the restaurants are fantastic—there’s truly something for everyone. It’s one of our favorite places for families to relax, play, and make unforgettable memories.

You can book your stay or learn more about upcoming events here:



Thank you again for trusting our recommendations, supporting our work, and showing love to the places we genuinely enjoy. We can’t wait to share even more fun with you this summer!

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Decluttering Challenge: The 12 Days of Decluttering!

 

In today's post, I'll share a fun way to help others while you are at home -- a 12 Days of Decluttering Challenge!

This challenge mirrors the 12 Days of Christmas song.  However, instead of your true love giving gifts, your family declutters and gives away items that they no longer need. Help others just before Christmas!

On the first day, you'll give away 12 items. On the second day, you'll give away 11 items. On the third day, you'll give away 10 items. You will repeat this pattern until the 12th day when you give away one special item. In the end, you will have given away 78 items.   

You may want to share the items on your FB page for friends and family to pick up. You may want to share in a Nextdoor group in case neighbors would like to pick up items.  You may donate the items to a good cause. There are many ways to give items away and your house may feel cleaner!

Feel welcome to count these items in any way that speaks to you. For instance, you may count 16 dishes as 16 items or as one set of dishes. You may also change it to one item a day or scale the challenge to 6 days. Choose whatever makes sense for you and have fun!

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A 30 Day Decluttering Challenge with Calendar and How Decluttering Changed My Life

I recently took on a 30 Day Decluttering Challenge that surprisingly helped me with anxiety and helped me to feel much happier.  I didn't realize how much this decluttering challenge would boost my spirits until I was a bit over halfway through the challenge and saw major difference.  Let me start with a quick overview of the challenge:

• What: 30 Day Decluttering Challenge
• Time Allocation: A minimum of 15 minutes per day for the duration of the challenge
• How: Remove items from your home that you no longer need and consider using these methods to get rid of them:
• Gift items to friends and family (We gave a lot of items to friends with children who are younger than our children. We emailed photos of available items on a weekly basis for people to claim what they wanted!)
• Sell items
• Donate items
• Recycle or track items

• Measure your progress so that you are able to reflect on your accomplishments:
• Cubic footage of items removed
• Amount of money for selling items
• Amount of time spent on tasks
• Keep a journal of what you completed each day

Personally, the consistency was important to me. Whether it was the minimum 15 minutes/day or a super productive 8 hours/day, consistent contributions made me feel like I was moving forward. I had days where I spent the entire day decluttering a room and removed as much as 7 cubic feet worth of items. I had other days where I only did the bare minimum of 15 minutes and didn't even declutter 1 cubic foot, i.e., I went through papers and shredded things or took items that I sold on eBay to the post office.  I kept a journal because it helped my motivation to reflect on my progress.  The daily journal contained:

• Day (1...30)
• Description of progress
• Measurement of the amount of items removed in cubic feet
• Amount of money received for items that were sold
• Cumulative cubic feet to-date
• Cumulative money to-date

I kept a written journal, but let me share a few graphs that show my progress.  You'll notice that there isn't really a trend to the amount of decluttering or sales each day.  While I set a goal to spend a minimum of 15 minutes/day on decluttering, I informally set a goal in my head to try to reach one cubic foot of decluttering each day.  However, I wasn't strict with the one cubic foot/day goal because I didn't know how much clutter was in our house. (It became more challenging toward the end!) As I mentioned earlier, there were days when I didn't reach the goal of one cubic foot/day because it took me a while to go through papers to figure out what to shred or scan. I also had to take items to a donation center or the post office which took time.  In the end, we decluttered 58 cubic feet. (I feel embarrassed to admit this, but at least the majority of the items went to other people who could use them and very little went to the trash. Having two children that outgrew various things accounted for a large amount of the space.) 

Here is a graph of my daily progress in terms of cubic footage.

Here is a graph of my cumulative progress in terms of cubic footage.

Another measurement of my productivity was the amount of money from items that I sold.  This was not one of my primary goals because I was much happier to give things away.  I don't enjoy selling items because I find the "people aspect" of scheduling and meeting up to be a hassle. I am also not a big eBay fan because I was once scammed on eBay and they sided with the buyer.  In any case, I did sell some items and surprised myself that the money added up quickly. Sure, I lost money if you think about how much we spent on items compared to the peanuts that we sold them for, but they were sunk costs of things that we really didn't use anymore.  For instance, my baby never liked his baby swing and it was easy to sell for half of what we paid. We paid $100 and sold it for $50.  In the end, we collected a good amount of money by selling items that were taking space without being useful to us.   (Again, I feel guilty that we had that much stuff just sitting around, but am glad that the items went to people who could use them and that we received some of our investment back from the money spent on the items.)

Here is a graph of my daily progress in terms of dollars.

Here is a graph of my cumulative progress in terms of dollars.

Now that you've seen my progress, let me share my decluttering calendar.  In general, I recommend that you do whatever makes sense for your personal situation, but for me, I thought that a calendar like this would be helpful for those days when I felt like, "I don't know what to do today..."  You will be able to skim my calendar and see if there is anything that make sense for your personal situation. You will also notice that every Wednesday was an "*EMAIL DAY." Throughout my decluttering, I took photos of items that I was getting rid of and sent weekly photos to family and friends to offer for them to take anything that I was cleaning out.  This was a fun way to keep my momentum since others enjoyed being part of my decluttering mission.

After completing a 30 Day Decluttering Challenge, I feel happier and realize that the extra "stuff" was causing me anxiety and weighing me down.  In some ways, I understand how it happened. Our lives have changed in many ways over the years. When we were first married, we had more time for recreation such as riding our bicycles together or individual projects like crafts, sports, and more.  When our children were young, they needed various things that they quickly outgrew. (That baby bathtub was truly useful for the first few months! The special infant carrier was also handy.  I don't think that I could have lived without our Baby Bjorn at the time. The list is long...)   However, where we went wrong was that we did not regularly reflect on the changes in our lives and declutter at the appropriate phases of life. We allowed clutter to build for several years.  These were the downsides of not decluttering sooner:

• The clutter cost us space. 
• The clutter cost us time in terms of cleaning or even when we needed to search for items that were hidden behind clutter. We even moved clutter from one house to another.  
• The clutter cost us money as we could have sold many items for more if we sold them when they weren't as old.  
• The clutter cost us a bit in terms of anxiety as we were surrounded by "stuff" and an ongoing thought hanging over us that we needed to declutter.   

Now that the decluttering is done, our home is cleaner and life is more efficient.  The outcome was wonderful for us.  It was a lot of work, but there were some bright spots along the way:

• We emailed or texted photos of random items to friends and family to ask if they wanted anything.  I'm sure that they thought that I was crazy at times (like, what are you doing with so many Star Wars costumes?), but they appreciated our thoughtfulness and were kind to support us with the Decluttering Challenge.  It was fun when people wanted items.
• We dropped off donations and appreciated that the items would probably go to good use.
• We sold items to people who were often excited and appreciated the great deals.
• We collected several hundred dollars that we put to good use
• We were able to reorganize our home, including everything from entire rooms to cabinets so that things looked nicer and were easier to find

Now that the 30 Day Decluttering Challenge is over, I feel proud of my accomplishments.  It was easier to let go of "things" than I imagined. I surprisingly let go over some anxiety too.  I'd like to say that we purchase fewer things after the decluttering challenge, but really, our habits were never that excessive.  We are just better about letting go of things sooner rather than later.  For instance, once my husband finishes playing a video game, he trades it in promptly rather than letting games fill a shelf. Once soccer season is over, we donate the uniform and move on.  I've also held on to the "consistency" aspect of the challenge, but instead of decluttering for a minimum of 15 minutes/day, I spend a minimum of 15 minutes/day speed cleaning. I set a timer and clean as much as possible in 15 minutes. It's a great way to direct some of my energy!

Good luck in your decluttering endeavors. I hope that you find bright spots along the way and feel a sense of accomplishment!

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