40. Why My Empty Nest Needs Less Stuff

Episode 40

Now that the kids are gone, I’m pretty sure my empty nest needs less stuff. AS i think about my second half callings I’ve decided I need to downsize my stuff to upsize my . 

Glad you’re here for Episode 40 where we’ll talk about WHY this matters.

Show Notes

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I have a new Facebook page for listeners of the podcast: We’re Not Done Yet. Come join me as we talk all things Empty Nest over there.

Why my empty nest needs less stuff:

My empty nest might be empty of kids, but it’s full of everything else. And a lot of it isn’t mine. Most of the kid’s memories they don’t want you to get rid of. Doesn’t mean they want to take it with them!

  • School projects. 

  • Trophies

  • Certificates.

  • Uniforms 

  • Memorabilia from trips 

  • Quirky gifts your kids made

And there’s the Homeschooling question: how long to need ot keep the proof we actually educated them?

I’m also realizing that now that 6 of the 7 kids have moved out I don’t need as many pots and pans. A few big for when the family is here. But not every day. And all the camping stuff? If I go camping now I’m renting a trailer.

I”m used to keeping things JUST IN CASE. But I’m realizing that there’s a problem with all the stuff.

WHY get rid of “the stuff”:

I always have to start with why.

  • I need freedom and energy. Tired. Stuff takes energy to manage and organize.

  • I want more time with my people.

  • I want to be free to pursue my second half calling.

  • I want to obey the command for hospitality. Easier if house is neater and people are closer

  • My accumulation of a lifetime can bless others more needy.


Rather than living with the accumulation of a lifetime, I’d rather refine and curate our belongings in order to make us more productive and energetic.

The Lord is leading us on lots of big new changes. We’re not done with change. We’re not done with moves. God is still calling us to new things.

We’re selling and downsizing to about ½ of the square footage. We are starting the downsize process and it is hard. So, I though I’d invite you along for the journey.  

Want to join me?

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Downsize My Stuff To Upsize My Impact Challenge

The month of June I’m hosting a challenge. A downsizing challenge. Let's keep each other accountable downsize our burdens. Just join the Challenge by following the steps below.

Here are the simple rules:

  • * Share a picture of your downsizing OR share my podcast on Facebook or Instagram.

  • * Tag me and tag a friend who might also be interested.

  • * For every friend you tag, you are entered. You can post as often as you like!

  • * I will draw a name at random on July 1st.

  • * PRIZE: $25.00 Amazon gift card and copies of: Unceasing, 31 Days Praying For My Daughter, and Life Repurposed, signed and sent to your home.

My empty nest needs less stuff to be:

  • Effective

  • Available

  • Easy to pivot

  • Quick to obey

  • Open to new opportunities


Join me on Instagram all of June to jump on the downsizing bandwagon. Let’s have a party. 

Remember: Tag me as you share a picture of your own downsize.

But more than that, let’s lighten our loads be ready for what God’s calling us to next. Because: We’re Not Done Yet!


Next Episode:

  • Episode 41: 5 Questions to Help Downsize

  • Episode 42: 5 Prayers to Help Downsize

  • Episode 43: How To Shop My Closet For Jesus

  • Episode 44: How to Upsize My Impact

Susan MaciasComment