Get rid of these 3 things to feel BETTER about yourself today!!
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- Опубліковано 19 жов 2020
- I received an email that stopped me in my tracks...because it was so real and honest about how our stuff makes us FEEL! Today, let's talk about three things we need to declutter and GET RID OF to feel better about ourselves!
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M O S T P O P U L A R V I D E O S R I G H T N O W :
57 Things We No Longer Buy: • 57 Things We Don't Buy...
How to Declutter WITHOUT Making a Mess: • How to Declutter WITHO...
FAVORITE Productivity Tip (ever!!): • How to create a "SUPER...
Eliminate Paper Clutter Video Part 1: • Eradicate Paper Clutte...
Organize Paper Clutter Video Part 2: • Simple Paper Clutter O...
THE TRICK TO SIMPLIFY YOUR KITCHEN QUICKLY: • Simplify your Kitchen ...
KITCHEN TOUR : • Minimalist Kitchen Tou...
MY MEAL PLANNING SYSTEM VIDEO : • Simple Meal Planning y...
📺 P O P U L A R R E L A T E D:
Why I became a Minimalist: • Why I became a minimal...
The Best Place to Start with Minimalism: • Best Place to start wi...
What to do when You get STUCK: • Decluttering Sentiment...
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THANK YOU for watching-- we greatly appreciate it!!! If you're looking for more help simplifying clothes, you may find this video helpful: ua-cam.com/video/TrYFP63cNeA/v-deo.html Also, excited to hear your ideas for archiving family stories!!! :) - Dawn
Pick you guys home
Thank you. For the positive notes on decluttering. There is a website called family search where you can upload
@@dianescott2459 I love Family Search!!!
This particular video was so needed and special. Thank you!
I broke down my books collection. Packed Christmas presents for my family. Each granddaughter got a cookbook in their box from the year they were born. It felt so good to give something personal to each of them.
My kids are older (35 and 32). Years ago I found so many boxes of their school & artwork, report cards, soccer trophies (no one wanted the physical trophies), etc. I took pictures of it all and made two digital albums and gave them to each child. They LOVED it. Spent hours reliving all these beautiful memories in an 12x12 book that takes up almost no room.
What did you do with the physical stuff?
@@ZZ-su8ph bet they trashed the physical copies after taking photos/making memory books.
I kept the bottoms of my trophies, sans soccer players, and I use them as paper weights for my office desk 😁
For me, taking digital pictures of "unused & not being enjoyed" sentimental items was a wonderful way to let go of them! Now, I can visit that item any time I want w/o pulling out a box. As well, I asked for a blessing upon the next owner. ♡
I ve thought about doing the same thing. I'm glad I saw your comment. I guess i should do it!!
For my father’s 84th birthday we started sending him a question about his life once a week by email. He types the response and we are going to make it up into a book and add pictures. He has really enjoyed sharing these memories.
That's a great idea.
I love that idea!
Brilliant,
That is such a good idea!
Love this!!
My mom died when I was in my 30's, while she was living with me (due to her poor health). So I had a house full of things she loved and I loved because I grew up with them. I am now downsizing and getting ready to retire and am trying to figure out what to do with everything. I realized last night that I have loved these items for 20+ years!!! So if I decide to pass them on to someone else, even people I don't know but who can have their own journey of loving and using them, it's okay. They've been good to me. I don't have to love (i.e. own) them forever. And my son, who is only in high school, doesn't have to love them because my parents or I did. It's so FREEING. And as my best friend says, it's great to bless others with things that have blessed me.
This is wonderful
I started asking my adult kids about certain items I have been saving for them. Surprised me how they don't even remember most of them. So I have started sharing the stories and not relying on the physical items to convey meaning after I am gone.
@@Dragonridermom I’ve started asking my kids if they want this or that, and they say “no” emphatically. Then they are still upset with me when I let their My Little Pony Collection go after they’d told me the same answer.
Yes. 💗
Just escaped a 38 year marriage of him cheating, gaslighting me, playing games, even pushing my 3 children away from me. "Being more gentle with ourselves," I felt that.
Bravo. Serve the Lord; not the wicked.
well done!
With the exception of children, your story is my story.
I know you left that comment 10 months ago so I hope you’re doing at least a little better by now and realize he was just standing in the way of your true joy.
Peace, friend!
Hope you have recovered your energy and are enjoying your new gentle life. ❤
If you like the dishes, silver ware, or other sentimental item you might have give yourself permission to actually use them... everyday. Don’t worry about it breaking or getting damaged. I had a box of silver tea spoons that was given to me when I was growing up. It was a Swedish tradition.... a silver spoon when I was baptized or for a birthday etc. I had no use for pretty little tea spoons, so I was going to sell them or give them away. I cleaned them up. Then I changed my mind and decided to use a few to feed my grand babies. Yes, they were feed with silver spoons at my house... so much nicer then plastic. I also started using them as teaspoons for measuring spices when cooking.... again so much nicer then plastic. I wash them in the dishwasher. They have brought me much joy since I repurposed them and actually started using them. Out with the plastic...! 😉
I agree I have started doing the same thing. Items are ment to enjoy. Life is short use the things you love not hide them away.
This was my thought. I have items from my mom and she would never want me to just store something away, but to use them until they are worn out. And every time I use them, I (and my children) are reminded of her. Now that they are older, I have passed some things along to my children as they start their lives in their own apartments. They know their end table used to be their grandparents, for instance.
I have some from Iceland . I am going to take them out , polish them and use them. Thank you for this great idea!!!!!!!
This is exactly the same sentiment for China dishes! Stop waiting for company-use them every day and enjoy how beautiful they are-OK if they have gold leaf you may have to hand wash them but even if you don’t, who cares is the gold goes down the drain! They are being used for their intended purpose! Loved this video
I have my moms spoons. She was a Swede too. They sit in a hand made mug by the stove and we use them everyday for coffee or to taste for seasonings while cooking.
I have to leave another comment. The clothes part of this video resonates with me so much that it brought tears to my eyes. I’m also a SAHM for 6 years now. I’ve been living in the same ratty sweat pants and old t-shirts that entire time. I went a few weeks ago and bought myself three pairs of jeans and 3 tops. I couldn’t believe how much better I felt about myself just by wearing real clothes. I no longer feel embarrassed taking my kids to their practices, games, etc
This is SO awesome!!! I believe this will inspire others, too!!! THANK YOU!!!
Get dressed is a way to express our identity. I’m so glad for you!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻😊🇧🇷
Thank you for your inspiring comment. I knew it was important when I wanted to ask "What are real clothes ?"
Soo happy you did that for yourself ! You deserve it !
@@chellybabyme anything other that ratty sweatpants and old t shirt
I have only seen a couple of your videos, I want to say I never comment on videos other than my own, however, I absolutely must tell you that I think you are the sweetest, loveliest, most beautiful person! I can tell you were raised by wonderful parents, your countenance shines. I just had to tell you this.
PS we are both farm girls 😉
Wow, thank you!! That means more than you know!! ❤️
Dude, I love their channel too! I watch it when I am homesick for my own Grandmother.. 💜
I agree. Couldn’t have said it better.
When my Grandpa passed away, a family member took beautiful pictures of the farm. He used them to make a wonderful picture book chock full of all the tractors we learned to drive on, barns we would play hide-and-seek in, and the back porch we would make homemade ice cream on as kids. ❤️
It is easier to be gentle to others then to ourselves. I never hold others to the same standards that I have for myself.
Right!?!?!
Christ says to love others as we love ourselves. So apparently we are suppose to love ourselves too!
Agreed!!!
We are our own worst critics and need to learn to care abut ourselves.
Learning self-compassion has changed my life. I’m also now so much more compassionate toward others because it comes from my own cup running over. Please be extremely kind and gentle with yourself. I tried cracking the whip on myself for 40 years. Believe me, it didn’t work.
👋🏻 I’ve never commented before on a video but I have been a subscriber for quiet some time. I wanted to share what I came up with when my family was having trouble saying goodbye to my Nona’s house that she has lived in for the past 65 years.
I hired a real estate videographer to come and take professional shots of the home. Then we interviewed everyone in the immediate family where they had a chance to share a favourite memory of the home. (Ex. Son in laws shared first date stories or proposals. Cousins shared about the notes we used to hide for Nona around the house)
It turned out so beautifully. And my Nona got to share a final summary of her time in the home. We kept it short and simple. Around 8 minutes so we could watch it again and again.
The final shot was all of us waving on the front yard and the drone flew away.
It definitely helped my mom and aunt let go of the house that they grew up in. And now we are able to share the wonderful memories with future generations.
Thanks for sharing.
This is such a cool idea! Thank you for sharing!!! 💕
Every item should have and keep a memory
How cool 😭🥰
What a wonderful idea!
That is beautiful! What a wonderful idea.❤❤❤
I had such a great time yesterday, sharing some of my quilting fabrics!
A young dog groomer put a post out on our neighborhood application, asking for fabric!
We had so much fun, going through my “stash”, talking about what would work for her furry clients!
There was gratitude all the way around, and then today I received pictures of all the dogs she groomed, with adorable bandanas or bows! It was my own personal dog show, she is a great groomer, but she gets those dogs standing proud and looking right into her phone/camera! What joy!
What a great use for your fabric! 💗
As I go through my sentimental items, I’m beginning to sometimes hear my mom say to me, “why are you saving that, Lynn? For goodness sake, get rid of it!”. Hearing that in my head helps me break lose of the item, and it gives me permission to let it go.
I hear my grandma's voice too. My grandpa was a bit of a hoarder and it drove her crazy. I know she would love me letting it go, even though I miss her.
Oh I have the opposite voice, my mom saying "but that was from so & so". Or "don't you want ANYTHING to remember someone by?" Even tho I have a few key pieces that hold enough memory for me of the rare relative I actually remember from childhood.
My mom saved everything from everyone, and when she tries to "pass on" the family stuff, I refuse, and I feel like I'm breaking her heart, but I have no use for mismatched crystal from a relative I never met, or the dedicated corsage she wore at the her baby shower for me (I'm 37). I've SLOWLY convinced her to try swedish death cleaning, and I think having her imagine that someone out there WILL love the stuff more than me has been helping her, but I still feel like I am disappointing her 😕
Same! Though my mother was an enthusiastic collector of collectibles (and it drove me crazy though we were best friends). I *could * imagine her saying reasons why I should keep each item in her collections but, instead, I imagine her as she is *now* -- not as she was in life. I imagine her in the presence of God, in complete peace and joy and then she very naturally says to me, "That's not important, sweetheart. Let it go. Have peace and clarity in your life." That's how I'm getting through it.
I stopped wasting my money on "the latest fashions" and started buy things that were MY STYLE!
I look better because I feel better.
WAY TO GO!
I am flabbergasted how often fashion changes...and, just how much money others spend to try and keep up with it all....BUT, now that I say this ...I've been guilty of trying to keep up with the crafting industry....and, it too, can be VERY EXPENSIVE.
TRYING so hard to stay out of the craft stores...and, instead of buying...crafting, instead.
GOOD FOR YOU!🙂
For so long I was in that trap of starting a new hobby, buying EVERYTHING for that hobby, and then never doing that hobby..... I finally FINALLY realized that it was the prospect of learning a new hobby and the process of acquiring the stuff that was satisfying to me-- not the actual sitting there for hours and scrapbooking, or knitting, or whatever. I looked back at the one and only creative thing I ever stuck with-quilting- and got rid of everything else ( along with at least 2/3 of my quilting crap, tbh). That was so incredibly freeing.
Wow, this speaks to me. I have done the same with different hobbies. “Acquiring” was more fun than actually “doing”.
This is so true. I realized that a lot of my hobby was about buying the stuff not using it. Now I've gotten rid of so much of it and my creativity is coming back. I no longer just stare at all the stuff and then just give up and put it all away.
What you said really resonated with me. This year I found myself as a middle aged widow with step children who did not live with me. At his celebration of life and visitation, I asked people to share stories of the man my husband was and how they remembered him. Because of covid, family was not able to all be there. I placed this all in a large 3 ring binder to share. I never dreamed between the letters and stories that it would be 3inches thick. Because of your suggestion, I decided to place these stories with photos I have of him and create a book to give to family members and each of his children.
Thank you for your story!! My husband passed in April last year and I still have not had a memorial service. I believe it would help me tremendously to have people write about him.
Very thoughtful 💞
As I’ve just dried my tears from feeling so bad about myself, I appreciate your kindness and help. Maybe one step toward less guilt is possible.
Prayers. You are worth it!
Sounds like you’ve already taken an important first step! You truly are worth it, you are worthy because you exist. That’s enough.❤
My father passed away quite suddenly about 2 years ago, devastating my siblings and I. We all kept some sentimental items from the house but the thing that made me the happiest to have hung on to was old voicemail messages that I never got around to deleting from my inbox while he was alive. To play back his voice telling me to call him and that he loves me is worth more than anything tangible. Stuff is not important. The bittersweet joy I get from something so seemingly insignificant is worth a fortune to me.
I bought my uncle a new phone after my aunt died. He used it but shortly, put the old phone back because my aunt had put on the message. I was so glad he did, because every time I called and he wasn’t home I got to hear my aunt’s voice!
So true, Melissa. Wish I had some recordings from my dad. I do, however, have the thank you card he sent me about a month before he died. I display it in October, his death month. I also cannot bear to get rid of a pair of his work gloves. They await use by my son or other male helper in my yard.
I found a recording picture frame at Hallmark. When my dad died, I played the voice recording back on speaker, and pressed record. Now I have a picture frame with 3 voicemails. 🥰
You need to record the voice mail off your phone cause i was saving one from a best friend that passed away and sprint just randomly started not saving more than a few messages sad but lesson learned
My son died and I keep his voice mail. Since then, I save one from my kids and grandkids till I get another.
I inherited a lot of my grandmother's dishes. They were junk when she had them, and they're still junk, but I keep them, because of my mom. On a funny note, a while back I had some out, trying to muster up the courage to donate them. My 11 year old called me at work just crying one day. He had accidentally knocked them off the counter and broken them. He thought I'd be mad. Cue music for mom of the year award....made sure he was ok, assured him that I wasn't mad. Actually it was a huge relief, because I no longer had to make a decision.
Wonderful!
Friends of my parents returned from a holiday in Portugal with a gift of a large, multi-coloured glass cockerel.
They put it on the landing windowsill in the hope that someone would knock it off. It didn't happen.
Now I know what they did wrong - they didn't find an energetic 11-year-old to borrow. I don't know what happened to it after they died. Perhaps my brother disposed of it humanely. ;)
Wow, problem solved
A military PCS broke most of my grandmothers dishes. I liked them though. I don’t know what to do with what is left of them. Two dinner place settings. I don’t need 8 coffee cups or dessert plates if we only have enough plates for two.
The universe responds 😉 🕊
When my mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, she declined treatment at 81. She had been a china painter and got her pieces out and let visitors choose something to take after their visit. Everyone cherishes her freehand painting. As your parents go thru their planning, something like this is a great remberance and declutters at the same time!
We evolve. We change. We grow. We outgrow things. We are constantly changing. It’s the beauty about us!
At 70, I need to downsize and uncluttered. I don’t want to leave my “stuff “ for others to dispose of.........but it’s still overwhelming ❤️
My parents did three purges before my dad passed. Then my mother and I did a purge after he passed of all the things she wanted to toss but he held on to. Then she moved to assisted living about 3 months before passing and what she chose to take helped me understand what she valued. Unfortunately I still have a household full of stuff. Furniture my Dad built over 50 years of marriage, things from my grandparents that might have value, my mother’s quilting stuff (I quilt too) and my father’s workshop full of tools (I am also handy and love to build). My advice is don’t try to purge all at once. Sweep through your house repeatedly, removing layers (I am pretty sure Dawn has done videos on this method).
It’s definitely a journey! At 70, you still have time! Do it for you as well as others and don’t try to do it all at once! I hope you feel less overwhelmed soon!
I feel with you
You go girl! I am also 70 and just started decluttering. Diane had said in a video that letting go of sentimental items was not letting go of that person. The things are not the person. So I chose a few things that I will use with joy, kissed the others and thanked them for serving me, and let them go. Another video I was watching, a therapist, said keep those things you need and enjoy for "this stage of your life." That is the sentence that freed me from keeping things because I spent money on them, or because I may need them someday. Do it one category at a time, do it on your own time schedule, then move to the next category. The space you acquire through this process is amazing, freeing, and peaceful. Everything you do takes less time because things are not crammed together. So keep on trucking, you can do this. I have faith in your amazing abilities.
I thought I might be the only 70-year-old here - a very late-comer to decluttering and minimizing. It’s good to realize there are others watching who are well past the stage of life that Dawn is in. Even so, I’m learning so much from her (& Diana) and gaining insight and inspiration to get on with making the rest of my life better instead of regretting that I missed out on doing it when I was a young mom with kids at home. I too don’t want to leave all this stuff for the kids to worry about when I’m gone. It is overwhelming, but it is a comfort to know others are where I am ❤️.
As the daughter of a hoarder who just died, I am not only burdened by her death, but also was burdened in her life knowing what awaited me upon her death. I started my journey of minimalism about five years ago when my health took a strong turn downward. I had to choose between spending my limited energy on stuff or on meaningful activities.
After reaching a minimal state essentially (it is an ongoing process, of course) I grieved over all the lost time and money over the 33 years of our marriage from buying stuff that was a burden, not a blessing.
I also believe God did not design us to have so much stuff, I believe it overwhelms us and burdens us, but we are used to it--just like extra weight on our boddies--so we continue in it without thinking about it and then wonder why we are stressed and fatigued.
Had we not had the burden of so much stuff, would we have had so many Sunday morning fights getting ready for church? Would I have not gained the extra weight over the years stressing over getting my house cleaned up before visitors? I don't know, but I wish I didn't have to wonder.
So true. I am the daughter of a hoarder who is now in a nursing home 2,000 miles away from me. Her sister was able to empty the apartment, after a great of work, 4 people doing it, and a rented skip. Now there are 3 large storage units to deal with. :( And, as someone with this disorder will do, an expensive piece of jewelry will be found in a box full of old mail. So it can't all be simply thrown out, especially since they are still her belongings. Very difficult.
Tari, that really hit home. I'm there. That's exactly what is happening. I'm beginning to grieve, not over getting rid of the stuff, because it feels really good, but the coming to terms with the fact that so much stuff has only "disabled" my life. The time, energy, finances and emotions I spent acquiring and caring for this STUFF is making me feel very sad. What a waste. I have to let it go of that guilt. Thank you. ❤
Thank you for the wake up call God Bless you 🙏
@@jenniferwright8355
❤️
Dear Tari, You don't have to wonder...it's okay. Just move ahead and try to stop grieving. We cannot live in the past (it's gone) or worry abut the future (it's not here yet) but just live in the present and let go of past worries. It won't help to keep going over situations you cannot do anything about. God is good and He will bless you from this moment onward! Live in love and positive thinking!
You'll like this one - this year I threw away at least 12 pairs of nylons that were over 20 years old! They were all new and never worn, but clearly not part of my wardrobe or style any longer. It felt great.
I get that! I actually think I no longer own a pair of nylons. For years I had at least one or two pairs, even though I was moving here and there, because it was just a piece of clothing that you were supposed to have somehow. If I wear something that needs something like that, I much prefer leggings…
Someone may have wanted your unused nylons. You could have donated them. You might have had an even greater feeling.
Please donate for now on. Don't throw away if wearable. No matter how old, somebody will use. ❤️
How about this for a motivational slogan: "I will liberate my excess stuff from the dark, dusty closet so that someone else can use it and love it!!" Now go and liberate your stuff!! Give it to someone who will use it and love it!!
Yes, good idea. Free those things!
Love this!!🤍
I saved clothes I Wanted to fit in and by the time I lost the weight, I did not like those clothes anymore anyway.
Same here. Style changes all the time as so is my taste 😊
Exactly! I saved some clothes for 3 years and now that I can fit them... I gave most of them away. It was too many to begin with, but I just don't dress that way anymore.
Same! I tried on a skirt yesterday for the first time in only a year and excitedly told my husband, "This fits me again!!! ...I don't like it, but YAY!" haha
I have a box of jeans that I moved with me 22 years ago from my old house. Written on the box "jeans that don't fit and probably never will"...
Time to open it up and unload them!
I was thankful I saved my favorites smaller sized clothes as due to health issues I am on a forever diet, unless God heals me. I put one this morning and felt so happy how I was dressed!
I got rid of the clothes that where to small, instead if i do lose weight i deserve to buy new clothes. And guess what 2 years later i started to lose weight.
Such a great reward after the work! Those old clothes are not inspiring!
Dawn, years ago after a divorce, I had my engagement & wedding rings melted down & made into a lovely bangle with the stones set in it. I always received compliments on it. But it also always led to me telling the story of its origin because people wanted to know where I got it.
After nearly two decades I realized that there was emotional weight to this piece of jewelry and I no longer wanted to carry it or wear it. I tried once to sell it but felt icky about turning this into cash. Instead, I donated it to a charity that matters to me, so they could auction it for much needed funds. Whoever won the bid was undoubtedly thrilled, they never had to know the emotion behind its creation and can wear it as the beautiful adornment it was meant to be. The charity benefitted from both our generosity. It felt like win-win-win and I’m pleased it’s not languishing in a drawer. In fact, I’ve done this with several heirloom pieces I no longer wear and it always feels like a secret treat I’m passing to another unknown woman to enjoy.
You are such a treasure, Dawn. Thank you for being such an encourager and so many people need a cheerleader. Even kids our age (82)!😂
God bless!
Off Topic...sorry! When we retired in 2017 we loaded up my husband's tools in the back of the truck, hitched up our camper, and began spending 6 months a year volunteering at various Christian ministries with an organization called SOWERs (Servants on Wheels Every Ready). We are having such a wonderful time! This life would not have been possible if we had not spent the years before retirement downsizing everything and eliminating all debt. I just had to comment after hearing you and Tom talk about loading up a truck and going to do projects for people. There are some of us living that life! (:
That's awesome!
That’s so wonderful!
What wonderful memories you are making.
Dawn, would you casually mention in one of your videos that the local Battered Women’s Shelters or a thrift shop that supports them is a really good and a really needed and greatly appreciated people to donate to? Theses women and children are lucky to get out with their lives. They usually only leave with the clothes on their backs and have to start over from scratch. The women and children are devastated from just going through this. Thank you Dawn for the good work you are doing by teaching us valuable life lessons and how we can make our lives and the lives of others around us, and maybe people we don’t even know lives better. Thank you again.
Yes! And if you've seen Dawn's video on baby gear... it's a great place to donate baby gear if they will take it... yes they often just leave with very little. 💜
I’m actually decided last week that I’m pulling all my clothes from my online sites and I’m donating them to a women’s shelter this will clear a lot of space in my storage unit!
Old suitcases and backpacks too.
This comment should have like 5 million likes.
@@mcarolivm7280 Great tip!! I wouldn't have thought of a shelter needing those items!!
I just wanted to tell you that I've been having a horrible migraine for about a week (I have IIH), and yesterday was binge-watching one of those house-flipping shows. I usually love these shows, and find them very relaxing, hence the binge. 🙂 But since watching about 432 of your videos about decluttering and simplifying everything in the home, all I could think when they showed the finished, staged homes was, "Look at all that junk everywhere!!! You can barely see the countertops or wall space! It looks like Home Goods threw up in there!" When I realized what I was thinking, I was very excited, because I realized I had begun to change my thought process, and was thinking like a tidy person, not a collector or one of those "I need one or two.. or more... of those" people. Thank you for that. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for that!
I hope that this migraine goes away soon, because I cannot wait to really get started purging. I plan to be ruthless, but that is difficult when there is an ice pick thru my skull. I will be sending you before and after pictures, which you are free to use. My husband will probably photo-bomb them with a huge smile on his face!
I wish I'd done this 20 years ago; I know we'd have all been happier for it. God bless!
I thought the same thing Saturday night when watching a home reno/update show -- TOO MUCH STUFF!!! :- )
I have IIH too and it’s a horrible disease. Thank you for posting this.
I’m curious, how has it gone? :-) :-)
I found you awhile back and my life is getting better! I grew up with a shopaholic hoarding mom and definitely learned the shopping part. Shopping makes me happy. Especially when I find a bargain. It gives me a sense of triumph. Since watching you, I have slimmed down my house significantly and continue to do so. These three things have been the hardest. The clothes, crafts, and sentimental items. I appreciate that you take the time to walk through the thinking process of having an item. I tried watching other minimalist youtubers, but they just tell you what to have and not have. I thought the lack of shopping would be awful. I received a catalog in the mail two days ago. This home decor catalog usually has multiple pages dog eared by the time I am done with it. I looked through the catalog, walked to the recycling bin, and threw it in. My husband was shocked. Of course there was great stuff in there! There was nothing I needed. There was nothing in there that could bring me the joy that the past month of decluttering has. Nothing in that catalog could make me happier than having room to play and interact with my family. I wanted to take the time to thank you. I still have a ways to go with our 6 bedroom 3 bath home, ahhhh too big. One day at a time! I can't tell you the last time I have felt so much joy and peace in my heart. Thank you for helping so many get to that place. Today I am tackling weeks worth of backed up laundry. When I get rid of what we don't need, I won't need to pile up laundry! Thank you again!
I had some items in a cedar chest that were sentimental to me. I decided to put the items in a zip lock bag along with an index card that explained the story of WHY that item was special to me. Now after I am gone and my kids or grandkids see the contents, they will understand WHY I kept the thing ...
That's a fantastic idea! I encourage you to get those items out and show the kids and grandkids, and tell the stories often so that the words on paper can trigger the memories of YOU telling the stories - because that's the special part. My Gram was great at going through family albums and genealogy documents with us, telling us the stories. We all have a solid sense of family and heritage; there's a confidence boost and a sense of belonging in the world when you know exactly where you came from. I think too many families don't know their history, or don't think it's important, and that's terribly sad.
I really like this idea.
Brilliant idea!
THAT was a great opener! 😁
on that note, my girl was grabbing some extra sheets for her new place and saw my baby dress hanging on the wall!
"you framed your baby dress!?"
then she turned and explained to her man,
"my great grandma made that dress for my mom when she was a baby. "
I smiled because that's why I framed it! I enjoy this little dress. it's almost 50 years old and I didn't want it hidden in a closet anymore! I have a few more that I will stage simply because I enjoy them! thanks so much for emphasizing how to sum up our trinkets! it totally helps!
That reminds me of something my mom did for my daughter! My mom took my daughters favorite newborn onsies she wore all the time and made them into a teddy bear for her bedroom! ♥️
That's an awesome idea!
We have 2 baby dresses that were my Grandpa's and a photo with him in one of the dresses, very grandchild and great-grandchild has been photographed in those dresses. Living history is amazing and while I am hoping it will be a few more years the dresses are ready for the great-great-grandbabies.
An absolutely charming idea! I wish my family had thought to do this.
My late grandmother wrote a history of how she met my grandfather, and their years together. She then had it self-published, and gifted a copy to each grandchild. It's a treasured item for us, and one that we can go back to whenever we want to.
That's so sweet.
I really REALLY needed to see this today! I have been so down on myself, I've gained so much weight due to hormonal imbalances I deal with. And I also felt like I wasn't worth pretty clothes and that it was pointless to do makeup. But, I do deserve to be happy in the season of life I'm in. I deserve to dress with dignity. Thank you!
I also needed extra motivation to declutter right now. I've been feeling stuck.
I appreciate you immensely, Dawn!
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I love that rust color on you. So complimentary.
I REALLY like the words put up on the screen as you talk! 👍🏻
Yes! I'm a visual learner.
Me, too! I liked the words on the screen - and the fact that an informal font (or handwriting) was used.
After moving twice in 2 years and having an adult child move back into the house I am still living with boxes in nearly every room 3 years later. 2020 was supposed to be my Declutter year but all the charities closed for donations. I have so much I need to give away. It breaks my heart to think I am going to have to take it to the dump so I just stopped. It's depressing looking at my cluttered house. I don't want to have a yard sale, I'm 60 and don't want strangers at my home. Hopefully some of our local charities will open for donations soon. Blessings to you and thank you for the tips.
Try putting it out at the curb with a free sign. My neighbor does that all the time and I have done it too, things I wasn’t sure anyone would want got taken! Then you don’t have to feel bad about them not being used.
Thrift stores, Goodwill, St Vincent's... Better for someone to use it , then get yellow and wrinkled in boxes.
Stagnating time for moving cleared items. Hope you've managed to clear things out now. Some charities collect too.
Dawn, thank you for this message. Recently, while cleaning, I found five star shaped glass candle holders that I had grown up with. They were favorites of mine. Recently I went to hobby lobby bought a candle in each of my daughter and daughter-in-law's favorite colors. I mailed a candle holder and a candle, to each of my adult children with a card that had two old-timey pictures and the story of how much I loved those candle holders when I was a kid. My daughter just recently called me and told me how much she appreciated the story that went with the candle and candle holder and she was thrilled with the gift. You were my inspiration!
I did the same with my clothes. My husband went shopping and I bought just a few things. Things I loved and things he thought I looked beautiful in. Guess what I exercised the next day and I've kept it up.
I agree with your mom - less supplies makes creating more fun! Too much means too many paralyzing choices. This video was perfect for my situation!
You’re so right! Paralysis of the analysis!
I was blessed that my dad loved to write. He was born in 1902, so he saw many changes and had the most wonderful stories. One day I asked him put these stories on paper! He did and it is my most previous possession.
I have to leave another comment. "When we bought this stuff we didn't know the future. We didn't know we would be a caregiver." I almost burst into tears. Yes. To this. Life has thrown us curveballs and we have to free ourselves from unspoken expectations.
I’m a 66 yr old grandma and have decluterred TONS, but still trying to find ways to deal with the sentimental items I inherited from my parents. A few things my kids have wanted, but things like my dad’s WWll uniform I really struggled with- what do you do with things like this? After praying about it I found out that my dad’s home town was making a WWll museum and they were delighted to have the uniform and a description of where he served in the war. I feel that I was able to honor my dad’s memory while at the same time provide something that the next generation can learn and benefit from. Now on to what to do with my grandmother’s wedding dress, all my dad’s writing and ancient family pictures. My goal is to get this all done before I die so my children are not burdened with it.
Sheryl F what a wonderful way to honor your dad with his WWll uniform! I have a suggestion about your grandmother's wedding dress if your children aren't interested in it. I can't remember what the group is called....Angels something or another but they cut up old wedding dresses for babies that have died at birth at the hospitals. They make cute little dresses for those precious babies to honor them who don't have a chance at life. I don't know if they have this in every state but they do here in Minnesota. I apologize for not remember the specific name of the group. They are volunteers who cut up and sew these baby dresses from wedding dresses donated. Just something you may consider for a new life for the dress. Also, look into a historical society about donating old photos.
Is it really beautiful? How about a museum? Our regular museum at home when I was a kid had one. I loved looking at it. There may even be special sewing museums somewhere.
@@bonesbigfoot2654 thank you for your suggestions!
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Do you have a county historical society near you? They would be thrilled to get the things you have, so that people can see how others lived in past years.
I recorded my father on 8- 60 min cassettes about 25 years ago and they have become such a priceless gift to me and my family. It's hard to explain but when I hear his voice on them it feels like being wrapped up in a warm blanket on a wintery day.
I wish we had done this .. we all miss my father so much
I sat my dad down years ago and recorded him telling his stories. I had a list of all the ones that sparked memories for me, the ones that made me laugh and the ones that he tells the exact same way, every single time, for 35yrs now. I want to remember those. I would much rather have that, than to have material things.
Hi Dawn, I have to thank you and your videos for giving me "permission" to let go of sentimental items. My husband and I just filled up the back of his truck with two sets of china (both my great grandmother's) that I have not touched or looked at in at least 17 years, knickknacks, tea sets and other breakable items that I literally never realized were such a heavy burden on my home and my mental inventory. Thank you, thank you I feel like an enormous weight hs been lifted!
What did you do with the china? I now have 3 sets of fine china.
@@isingandsew2 I ended up just donating it. I tried to sell it and no one wanted it.
Thank you for this. I have coat length gray hoodie that I’ve only worn a couple of times because I hate it. And I have been beating myself up for what I spent for it. No more. As soon as I get up after writing this that hoodie goes right into the Goodwill box! I already feel better.
I am retired with one nephew. His parents have two large houses tastefully full. So I gave away china, nice linens and other household items to friends who are snowbirds with a second house to furnish. We were all happy.
I remember when I was a teenager my mom was decluttering a bunch of stuff and I kept saying why are you getting rid of that that's a happy memory that's you know something you should keep and she told me that even happy memories can be painful and can drag us down a bit and I thought that was really good advice I didn't get it at the time but I sure do get it now as an adult
I speak your language to my friends & family now. “I’m just not going to let the clothes taunt me anymore.” Or, “check your wallet the next time you shove this back in the closet... any more money show up?” lol. They usually respond just like I did the first time I heard you say them: “hm, never thought of it like that” or “you’re right.” Feels great to live this way & to share your advice. I always give you credit too. 😉
1975, I had an outfit that I was determined to fit into again. 45 years later that outfit would still be hanging in my closet and I would still be depressed that it didn’t fit me, and never would. We don’t deserve the punishment we give ourselves.
Me too I have had a dress 15 years , mocking me in the wardrobe ,
You always motivate me! I retired 2 years ago and I still have all of my ‘work clothes’ just in case I’d need them. Especially now, during a pandemic when we’re staying home, I never wear these clothes! They aren’t worth selling or even donating, so they’re going in the trash TODAY! Freedom!! 😊
I retired a year ago, so same here! I keep saving my business clothes just in case I go back to work part-time. I think i will box them all up and put them in storage for now!
I retired a year ago and recently gave all of my work clothes to my sister for a lady who works with her. The lady had gained some weight and couldn't afford a new wardrobe. Mine fit her perfectly!
@@kayhowell8263 I know several plus sized people who couldn't afford clothes then received entire wardrobe gifts from people like yourself. They absolutely LOVED them and the fact they were a gift made wearing them all the sweeter.
For those reading this, even if your clothes are not high quality, consider giving them to Goodwill anyway. They recycle cloth, too, selling it to rag companies. It helps keep it out of the landfill.
Kay Howell Beautiful! Now you are full of peace from your gift of charity instead of full of guilt for keeping things you paid money for and no longer need! Yay !!!🥳
I love the feeling of donating items to The Salvation Army because I know they do so much good to help in the community. So that helps me to part with things I know I don't need to keep!
Loved seeing a Stampin' Up! card! It's true that sometimes we cannot create when we have too much-- it blocks our creativity!
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” ~~Matthew 11:28-30 NIV
Yes & amen.
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I really needed to see this today. Thank you 😘😘😘😘😘
So, does this mean throw out your junk? Not sure what point you are making here.
I hesitated to write this because I am NOT sentimental. I don’t know why. I was raised by a mother who was very sentimental. For some reason I do not feel an attachment to a person by something they owned or made. Some people try to make me feel guilty for this. I was very close to my mother and dad and grandparents and they all left possessions when they passed on but I only have a piece of needlework and a cooking pot that belonged to my mom and I use or display them daily. I feel that I honor my parents when in an appropriate conversation with our children and grandchildren, and sometimes friends, I can interject a loving comment or story about one of them or as I’m going about my daily homemaking I find myself thinking, I did that just like my mom did, or my mom would like how I arranged my houseplants because she taught me the love of plants. She would have been so pleased that I had these thoughts about her instead of the dishes or knick knacks stored away in the basement. Everyone is different so there are those of us out there that do not share others sentimental feelings.
It sounds to me like you’re sentimental, but not about things. A very appropriate way of being sentimental!
I went through this when my Mom died. I am not very sentimental about physical items. These were her items, not mine, not my choice. I kept a few, sold the rest. Now, My Mom's best friend got so mad at me, she will not talk to me. I've struggled with this, the guilt she and others placed on me over 'stuff'
@@sableann4255 sounds like they are mad that you did not give the stuff to them.how sad.
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@@sableann4255 I totally agree, those items were my parents choices and they got to enjoy them. They are now gone and this is my life. I get to choose for myself. My parents loved me and would WANT me to do that! And even if they didn’t, that would’ve been their selfish hang up, not my problem. It’s JUST STUFF. I don’t need objects to remember my ancestors or why I love them. Carrying guilt over dead people’s things is crazy.
I was a sentimental pack rat for many years. A trait I picked up from my mother. One of the things I heard on my decluttering journey was that if the item is sentimental and it is hidden away and not viewed and enjoyed I have no business keeping it. So as I went through the sentimental things I would ask myself, "Am I actively enjoying this?" If the answer was no, I took a photo and found a happy home for it. I gave a very old and treasured china cabinet that no longer fit in my home as a housewarming gift to a young couple my husband and I sort of adopted and they now value and treasure it. If I was not ready to make the decision, I boxed it back up and "quarantined" it. The boxes got smaller. I go through things about every six months or so and always get rid of more. My mom is aging and is still a sentimental pack rat. I love the idea of archiving family stories! Maybe that would help her ability to decide to declutter a little easier. Thanks for this!
Re: sentimental items... it can be difficult to take in/on so many objects from past generation. And it isn't that we don't care, but many times there is simply not enough space. I look at it like, when you fill up your space with the past you have no room for the present. I love the idea of taking pictures of things and maintaining the memory that way- you can always look back at the pic or share it with others. The physician object can move on.
When you fill up your space with the past, you have no room for the present. Wow. Mind blown.
Part of what made things special is that they were harder to come by, therefore seen as valuable, and an asset to pass onto your children so they didn't have to spend money they might not have while they were young adults. Yes, advertising played a part, although most people didn't realize it. Who knew things would change so much.
The recording idea of the grandparents stories is fantastic.. never thought of it.
This is a good idea. I know all are busy, but I encourage you to make the time to do it :)
I have had my beloved grandmother's quilts in storage for 10 plus years not wanting to let them go but not be able to use them. Another of Dawn's followers suggested to me that I could have them made into Christmas ornaments to share with other family members. I absolutely love this idea and found it so freeing and happy that they can still have a purpose and bring joy in a meaningful way!
Thank you so much for this , it has been so hard for me when I started to get rid of the stuff and started the journey as minimalist. I had friends that they made fun of me and saying that we can’t afford stuff anymore and our house looks so empty not to mention the shock when they saw the wardrobe! People are so horrible and uneducated. I love all your videos and I learned so much thank you xx
please, you do what is loving for you and your family. The kind of change in mind-set is your journey, not theirs.
Yes,yes,yes on making a family history video! I took my parents’ home movies and put them to video about 20 years ago. Mom and dad narrated their memories as they watched the video the first time. It’s a natural conversation as they didn’t even think about being recorded. Just a few weeks ago my 93 year old mother, my sisters and I watched the video together. My dad passed away a year ago. It was so nice to hear his voice in the narration. We laughed and reminisced at the sweet memories. My young niece also enjoyed watching with us.
That is amazing, how did you do that?
What a family treasure!
That is a wonderful idea and gift. I had gotten a book for my mom to fill out: Check this out: Grandmother's Journal: Memories and Kee... www.amazon.com/dp/1681881780/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_awdb_btf_t1_SksKFbGYED7BW?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Unfortunately she passed away before we could fill it out. So I may use it and start filling it out for my future grandkids☺️
@@Michelle-by9fp this was years ago when Technology was more primitive. I spliced my parents film together (my grandpa had the equipment to do that) and took it to a business that transferred the film to a video cassette. My parents dubbed it as we ran it through my camcorder on sound record. Several years later I took the video to a place called Transfer Me to DVD and had it put on dvds. . I made one for my parents and each of us 4 siblings. There are businesses that still do that. You’d have to ask about adding narration. I bet there’s a way.
@@wendyhummel9600 okay I still got the same thing on a screen of this whole time I need my screen cleared
Wow, I needed this video right now this very minute because I'm throwing things out and something's are sentimental I'm having a hard time but I made a promise to myself that I would do this. Imliterally asking God to help me with it because I lost my mom less than 6 months ago but this has to be done I need to feel lighter I need to feel free I need to be able to manage these things and I have been up to my neck and over my head for years so thank you for giving us all permission to break the cycle of why we hold on to things
Give yourself grace. There's no timeline when you've had a parent passed on.
This too will pass. The intense grief will come & go for awhile. Might I suggest you seek out a grief group? My church had one when my husband passed & it REALLY helped!! As you are sorting items, remember your loved one is still in your heart even if they are NOT in the "stuff"!
I brought home a lot of sentimental things when my mom passed away 3 years ago; I thought I would use it. Little by little I've been able to get rid of that stuff as I realized it was the memories I had with mom and those items as opposed to the actual item. Have had to give myself grace and do it slowly. I'm down to 2 bins.
@@ginnyevans1035 I I lost my parents three years ago as well, and I probably kept more things than I needed to, but I figured I could always get rid of it later. So there are some things I’ve gotten rid of and I still have things from their house in my garage in boxes that I need to sort through, most of which is family photos and memorabilia from many generations past. It’s the sentimental stuff, so I’m not pushing myself to go through it quickly just because there is so much of it.
@@intherockies STRANGERS HAVE GIVEN ME MORE TIME THAN THE 2 PPL THAT SHOULD BE. I KNOW ITS WRONG BUT CANT DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT. ALL I CAN DO IS PRAY. AND CLAIM HEALING IN HIS NAME. CRAZY BUT TRUE
My sister & I purchased StoryWorth for both of our parents for Christmas this past year. Storyworth emails them a question that stimulates memories for them to share for an entire year! They can upload photos and edit as they go. At the end of year, StoryWorth compiles all the emails and creates a beautiful book of stories with photos. You can get as many copies printed as you'd like. We're LOVING it!! So many great untold memories that are being recorded for us to hold onto.
“If I do get the chance to go out in public” this line made me actually laugh out loud
awwww dawn, you have no idea how many times you have given me "permission" for so many things. You really make it real life and its a behavioral change too. THANK YOU for being on UA-cam! When i am feeling stressed or spun out i usually go to your channel and just listen to you. I have a few others but i really like how gentle you are and you make the connection in my brain for me lol
I have such an easier time accepting myself as I am right now ever since I used your wardrobe decluttering videos. I am beyond grateful for the changes I have had in my life bc of your videos.
100% agree!
I have also rid my home of my mother’s and my mother in law’s things. I chose only a few favorite things. I gave furniture and all kinds of things away. I learned years ago to not consult with sentimentality when ditching things.
I am a single 54yr old slob! Since finding this channel, I have declutter about 70% of my crap and with less "inventory" I am neater. I'm still a slob, but my house stays so much cleaner simply because I decluttered...and continue to declutter!!
I have three fitted wardrobes of ‘it may fit one day’ and a small one that does. It has to go.
I needed the affirmation on gentleness. Feeling upset since seeing my pops the weekend - he has a way of putting me down like no one else can. And he doesn’t even mean it. Lol. But it still breaks my heart and makes me doubt myself.
Carrying on with a declutter is cathartic when I am sad. I am worth the effort it takes to give myself a nice simple life and to rediscover and appreciate the things I have that I love.
So sorry to hear this and YES you are worth it!!! 💕
Does he know that his words do that to you? Can you try to show him how his words hurt you? He may be devastated to discover that he’s hurting you like that? Writing it down might be helpful. Sometimes it’s hard to convey your meaning in an emotional situation but writing it down lets you order your thoughts and ensure you’re being clear. Just a thought. (My mother has fronto-temporal dementia and has gone from the most loving mother you could wish for, to saying hateful things to me. It destroys me. My family and friends have said to me that she would be devastated if she knew what she was doing. It is a comfort to know that. )
@@melissahoneybee8493 I used to try and tell him but he just protests that he doesn’t mean it like that and I should no better. Then acts all wounded so I end up feeling bad for him and I end up apologising to him! Drives me nuts. So there is little point really. But writing it down for my own benefit may help. This is a life long thing rather than a change with age. He has always been discouraging, and believes women are only there to help him or to look pretty. My psychologist suggested going no contact but I can’t bring myself to do that. He is still my dad after all.
So many things I could comment on here but I'll just stick to one, maybe two. My mom passed along to me lots of photos. I spent at least two occasions going thru them. The first time I asked my nieces and nephews if they wanted duplicates that I had of their parents who passed away. Then I put what I had in a photo album. The second go thru I had pictures of cousins from Europe that I didn't really know with no information on the back and I finally just pitched them.
Helen Heggadon oh I’m so sorry. You deserve better.
Before I was becoming a minimalist I had a lot of clothes. My father gave me my Mother’s clothes when she passed away. We dressed a lot alike because she gave me a lot of clothes over the years. I have gone through my closets a lot over the years. I felt after she passed away that I should keep them forever. Now because of watching your videos I realize that it’s okay to let go of the stuff I am not using. So I am. I feel so much better. Thank you.
I started a few years ago with the scanning of all the family photo’s, now i am making a family history with them, my kids live in Canada, i whant the grandson to know how is family, from Belgium, lived and whom they were...... and you gave me a great idea... i going to film my city..... Ghent, and al his beuatiful places, to preserve for the future, so he can see his roots when he is older
Sentimental items - Our family had an eye opening experience. We were going through my 86 yr old mother's "precious" things that had been hidden away for years. It was important to us as siblings, because we grew up seeing these items and hearing the associated family stories. As the years have gone by, my mother protected these items more and more, hiding them deeper and deeper. None of the grandchildren wanted to inherit these items. The great grandchildren even said a few derogatory comments under their breath. None of them felt a connection to anything. They did not see or use these items - hand made quilts, tea towels, embroidered pillowcases, cast iron pans, etc. Some of the things were literally falling apart, because they were so old. I would have rather have used the items and had them fall apart from love and use, than have the item disintegrate from being saved for "someday special". Those grandkids literally had no idea what they were throwing away, because they had never seen it before. If it is important display it. Let others touch and feel it and use it. The next generation needs to feel a connection. Things wear out and become obsolete, even with non- use. Let your grandchildren hear their ancestral stories by experiencing and doing. ❤
My dad lives in assisted living. Because of that, I had to go through his house and clear it out before we put it up for sale. I have a couple of boxes of things that were my dad’s & grandpa’s. I was going through boxes we emptied out of our storage unit and opened the box with my grandpa’s stuff. I burst into tears when I smelled his cologne still lingering on things he hadn’t touched in years because he passed away nearly 10 years ago. I chose to give myself grace and I closed that box back up to be dealt with another day. Then I moved on to some other non sentimental boxes and was able to make some progress paring stuff down. It’s okay to not tackle the whole pile at once. Do what you can as often as you can. Eventually I will need to deal with those boxes, but for now I can focus on the other stuff and feel good about that. ❤️
This is good advice, kirbyourenthusiasm : ) to take one's time and not to rush the decision process - when I had to clear my mother's house I kept just 6 large boxes of stuff and it took me at least 10 years before I could make the finer decisions of what I actually wanted. Time does heal and it makes you stronger x
I have regrets of sentimental things I got rid of... when I was an extreme minimalism... be careful!
What kinds of things? Knowing what to look out for could be helpful.
MJ Cossel Mostly heirlooms... of my grandmother.
Thanks for this, I'm just after going upstairs and dressing myself instead of going around in pjs all day long, I feel better already xx
Dawn, the knowledge you’re sharing is helping many overcome or avoid depression and anxiety, and I mean that. When you said you didn’t feel like you were being the mom you wanted to be before, that hit me. That feeling is a crusher and I’ve been there. I decided to do whatever it took to be the mom I wanted to be and that meant saying no to as much as I could: volunteering, etc. I had to honor my personality and mental bandwidth. I had to only have as much on my plate as I could feel a sense of mastery over. I was ruthless about saying no to others and guess what ? It was fine. My family benefitted so much and now I can look back with few regrets and much pride and gratitude to God. Thank-you so much !
Thanks for the reminder that it makes a huge difference to "get dressed with house shoes" like the Flylady recommends, even for SAHMs. Self-care is a must for mom's! I've created my capsule uniform that looks good both inside and outside the home. Moreover, I stopped using harsh chemicals to clean, so it is safe to clean with my nicer clothes.
same here. I find I feel better when I put on my I can wear it out or around my home uniform. I also did the same with chemicals.
I have a whole tote of “I’m going to fit into this someday”. Good to hear.
the best gift I got (and yes, I'm a Genx old school kid) was a tape recorder. One night I recorded my grandparents telling stories of their raising kids in the Depression and other funny stories. We eventually got this on CD so we can still hear their voices....I had no idea as a 10 year old kid how amazing this was...
I have started taking pictures of things that belonged to my grandparents or even my parents. A good idea that you can do with them is to use Shutterfly (hope it's ok to mention them) and make a memory book. You can put the pictures on pages and write the story about where the item came from and what your special memory is of it. These are not big books so they take up less space than the items and they also share your family history at the same time. So...that's my planned project for sentimental items.
I could have written that email! That is exactly what happened to me and I’m so thankful for you giving me “permission” to get clothes that fit
An African violet plant always reminds me of my grandma Serine who was a farm wife and mother of 5 children in North Dakota. She liked to keep one near the window over her kitchen sink. They don't last forever. I've given them as housewarming gifts to my younger cousins who didn't know this about our grandmother, and they've appreciated it very much!
I think the best mementos from family members are the ones we can use regularly that have meaning in our relationship with that person. I have one grandmother's sewing caddy, and I use it for whatever my current craft project is. I also have one grandmother's napkin holder - it was on her kitchen table all my life, and held two decks of cards. She taught all of us grandkids how to play various solitaire games - I think it was to keep us occupied while the adults visited. The napkin holder brings up some of the best memories of my childhood, to the point where I can hear the hum of her refrigerator and the soft bubbling of the aquarium under the quiet shuffle and snap of cards being placed on the table. Peaceful contentment.
I just don't think a photo would be quite the same, somehow.
I cried all the way through this one, and thank you for the gift of release from guilt! I am the generation that finds great connection to my grandparents and great grandparents through things they left behind. As a wedding present for each of her grandchildren, my grandmother gave us one of her own wedding presents! She married in 1912, and cut glass was very big then, so many of us got some of her cut glass. I have furniture that was theirs too, and even though my grandfathers both died long before I was born, I feel connected to them through using their things. You are so right about sharing those stories with my children and grandchildren! I am in the process of writing a book about the family history ( my maternal grandfather's hobby ) and including pictures as well. I hope to make the connections meaningful to my children and grandchildren, not to make them want to keep it all, but to help feel part of a larger family that had a place in the world and did good.
You can record family stories on the memories part of Family Search for free and include pictures too.
Not that we need any additional "digital clutter" either, BUT I must say it has always helped me to take a few photos of any sentimental items before parting with them. I'm afraid if I get rid of the item, I will also lose the associated memories and feelings I have surrounding it. I may never even see that photo again, but it brings me comfort to know I haven't lost anything. And as I am scrolling through my photos on my phone, it brings back fond memories if I do come across them.
I have done this as well!
Wow, that hit home in so many ways. Thanks for helping us realize about the clothes and especially about sentimental items. I think I took most of my grandma’s stuff when she passed to keep her memory alive. I didn’t know what to do with it, but now I can let go. What a weight has been lifted. Why do we torture ourselves? God surely wouldn’t want us to do that. Thanks much!
Great video! I wanted to give a suggestion for everyone. I had a bunch of yarn skeins, imagining all the blankets I would make. But I never found the time, and if I did have time, I wasn't choosing to make blankets! I donated the skeins to the Linus Project. They make blankets to give to hospitals and police/fire departments to give to kids. When my son was in the hospital for 9 months, we received a couple of them, and I still have them, 13 years later! If you have unwanted skeins, look for a chapter in your area. God bless you!
We’re moving, so I’m tossing EVERYTHING! It’s soooo freeing.
You are such a wise lady 🥰
You are very kind! Thank you!
Trust me...if you still have your parents around and you aren't recording them telling stories...you absolutely WILL REGRET IT!!!!!
There is a rocking chair I had in my family that rocked both my mom, me and my son that my parents sold. It was a lovely rocking chair that was super old and was made by my great grandfather.
I just decluttered a bunch of homemade gifts that I never use anymore. I held on to them for a long time because I didn't want to hurt anyone's feelings but they weren't my style anymore. It was very freeing
Im on my third pass in my closet...donated 3 bags so far!! Yay me!!! By the way, your hair looks great!
Well done!
Way to go!!! And THANK YOU!
Stacy, you are not alone! I donated 3 large bags a few weeks ago and I still can't fit all my clothes in my bedroom. Kinda demoralizing. It's nice to see someone getting back in there for multiple pass throughs. Thanks for the motivation! Then there's Dawn's kind reminders of being kind merciful to ourselves. Baby steps right? ☺️👣✔️
It took me three passes to go through my closet to get rid of clothes. I'm finally finished. I got rid of clothes that filled a total of 14 trash bags (30 something gallon size) each filled three quarters, so it could be carried.
I still have enough clothes to wear.
Next item to tackle is the arts and crafts supplies. Of that I already donated two pounds of colorful crochet yarn, five or six pounds of wool, two pounds of plastic beads. I did get positive feedback from the recipients. Yes, I did spend a lot of money on the stuff. In my place it was lying around, gathering dust and taking up real estate. Now the people who got it are happy. The things now can fulfill their service. So the money spent on it is no longer a waste.
I agree, Dawn, giving yourself permission to be happy and content today (I summarize it as such) is a break-through. It took me three years to come to grips with the idea that I determine what I want and then decide which things are going to be that "happy stuff".
My husband passed away suddenly and I have held onto his clothes and items to keep him with me! It is so hard to part with his things it's like losing him all over again 😰
So sorry for your loss. Take your time. Identify a few items that have “a story” and keep them close. Box up other stuff and keep it aside until you are ready. God bless!
So sorry to hear! if you know a quilter, you could have some of his things made into quilts, that way you can keep the visual memory without the bulk of the entire item.
So sorry for your loss. When my dad passed away, my Mom experienced the same thing. She made all of us pillows with his work shirts and plans to quilt with many of his shirts. Praying for comfort 🙏🏼
When our Dad passed my sister made each of us an apron out of his shirts. Our Dad loved to bake so we had a special memento to enjoy in the room he enjoyed most....the kitchen!
I’m so sorry for your loss. That must be hard. I’m sure you’ve heard of this but in case you haven’t you can take a piece of clothing and have a bear made from a shirt or something. Maybe this was already suggested.
Your video has encouraged me to renew my efforts to purge unwanted and unnecessary "stuff" that began when my husband died seven years ago and I was preparing to sell my home and move to another state to live with one of my children. Some of the novel suggestions for what to do with sentimental but bulky items reminded me of what I did with his clergy robe (heavy fabric with velvet front panels.) After much thought, I donated it to the costume department of the local Little Theater group. They were delighted to get it. That might be a place to donate some outdated clothing, too.
So good! My mom lives with us and just came home from the hospital and into hospice care. Recording the memories is a lot better than the stuff. Thankfully, my mom rid her household of a lot of things before moving here.