When it comes to my wardrobe, I try to keep it simple. I stick to a basic colour palette – shades of brown, grey and black – then brighten it with colourful shirts or accessories. This way it's easy for me to mix and match.
When it comes to determining what to keep and what to throw out, I ask myself two questions about each item of clothing. First, have I worn the item in the past two years? Second, does the item have sentimental value? Anything that gets a "no" gets bagged up and given away. At the end of the process my closets are organized and I'm ready to go.
This year I went after my closets with a vengeance. Finally, it was time to try things on before hanging them up or putting them into my repair pile. Simple, right? Not really. I stared at myself in the mirror wearing a favourite sweater that seemed to have shrunk beyond recognition. Then I pulled on a pair of pants that threatened to cut off my circulation from the waist down. It was clear: I had gained more than a few pounds and inches since I'd last worn these clothes. My plan for wardrobe perfection was literally unravelling at the seams.
You might be asking yourself how I didn't notice this happening. Like many people, my weight has a tendency to go up and down. The summer before last, I was particularly active, so when fall came around I was in good form – I'd actually gone down a few sizes. But maybe I got too cocky and ventured into the Test Kitchen more than usual, volunteering to taste newly developed recipes. I cheered on my friends for going to the gym; meanwhile, my own fitness regimen consisted of applause and giving them high fives.
So here I am, looking for a fresh start. Luckily I've found a solution – something that will see me on the way to weight loss, better eating habits and better overall health. I'm joining the Canadian Living Six-Week Slim-Down Challenge – and I hope you'll join me!
The challenge starts on January 2. Once you sign up, you will receive a weekly e-newsletter chock-full of weight-loss tips, expert advice on exercise and nutrition, and healthy Tested-Till-Perfect recipes.
I'll be blogging weekly about my slim-down journey, posting daily reports on Twitter, joining our Facebook community to chat with fellow participants about your challenges and successes, and finding out how Canadian Living staffers are faring with their goals. We will be there to encourage you! Wishing you health and happiness in 2012.
– Susan Antonacci
