WLJ: Save me from the in between

The best part about losing weight:  When you discover your clothes are too big.
The worst part about losing weight:  When you discover your clothes are too big.

I was going through my closet over the weekend, and I got rid of even more clothes that no longer fit me.  These are items I wore last summer and even last fall.  And they hang on me weird now.

For a moment, it made me happy.  I realized my hard work really had produced some results. I have been eating better, sleeping better and working out more.  I've banked a lot of hours on my health in the past year, and I'm seeing a little return on investment.

But then I looked at my closet and saw my dwindling clothing options and the disappointment hit.  This means more shopping is in my future.  Which means spending money.  And when you're on a budget and trying to get some other things (read: lab test bills) paid off, this can be tricky.  I'm still not to my goal, so I don't want to spend a lot of money on things I'll only be able to wear for a few months.

Time to get creative, right? Here's what's helped me through the interim ...

:: Belts.  There are a few tops that hang loose, but when I cinch them up with a belt, they not only become more flattering but also a bit more stylish.

:: Consignment stores.  I'm thinking, in particular, of one in Ames.  Miss Meyer's.  She only carries items that have been bought in the last few years, but they're priced to move.  Plus she has a great petite section, which is rare in consignment stores. I never leave there with less than four new clothing items.  And I've never spent more than $50.  Also, the staff there is awesome.  Very helpful.

:: Dresses.  Even though I prefer pants any day, I've found dresses to be a little more forgiving and less work.  And I get to show off the killer calves I've developed thanks to running and Zumba.  I've found reasonably priced dresses at the other stores mentioned here as well as big department stores (usually on clearance or sale racks).

:: Goodwill.  Honestly, this has been my saving grace.  I've been able to find some barely-worn pants and shirts (some with the tag still on) to supplement my wardrobe without making me go broke.

Do you have any tricks or hints to help get through the in between clothing sizes? I am definitely open to advice and new ideas.

Weight-loss goal: 40 lbs.

This week's progress:+/- 0 lbs.

Progress to date: -30 lbs.

Non-scale victory: This week is going to be a hot one. To beat the heat, I got up early on Monday to go for a run.  Well, the running part didn't work out so well (my body was not having any of that), but at least I got up early and got a nice 45-minute walk in before work.  I'm going to try and do that more often ... although this week is a tough one with my beloved Rangers on the west coast.

P.S.  Today's blog title was stolen from a Dave Barnes song - "The Inbetween."