A big thanks to Wild Deodorants for sponsoring this video! 🌱 Use this link bit.ly/VERALOVE20 and my discount code VERALOVE20 to get 20% OFF on all Wild products.
I just watched a previous video with you talking about Native deodorant lol. Which one do you like better? I’ve used native a few times and I like it, but sometimes I’ll buy one and it doesn’t seem to work.
@@jennamartin4098 Hi there! Yes haha I used to work with Native and I also really liked their deodorants, but they stopped shopping to Europe a while ago. I do prefer Wild over Native now, I think their scents are even better and overall the packaging and 'system' is better in my opinion. I just really like the reusable case with these little compostable refills. Not only is there no plastic and no waste, but it's also more user-friendly. 😊
I have a grape ivy plant that my favorite aunt gave me when I was 14! I’ve shared cuttings over the years with others. Last fall my plant started to die. I am not sure why. I thought I was going to lose it, but I took some cuttings that still looked OK and they are still surviving in water. I’m turning 65 next month so I will have had the plant for 51 years! Hopefully it will keep going when I pot it. I hope that you have your bonsai tree for many many years too! ❤
As I look around my apartment almost EVERYTHING is over 20, 30 or even 50 years old 😂 A cherished family rocker, some handmade items from people I love, like a hand carved wooden clog, a pottery dish , artwork, and needlepoint duck and goose. A few favorite books (I decluttered over 2000!) also have stood the test of time. I love that my minimalist apartment has only things of great meaning, beauty, and usefulness.
@@SimpleHappyZen A VERY painful process, but it turned out that lots of thing I had (including the books) were part of a dream that wasn’t going to happen, a fantasy self, or a past identity …haha sounds like I’m a spy!
I am in awe that you decluttered 2,000 books!!! I have cut down from 9 bookcases to three over the past 10 years, but that will be nowhere near 2,000. How did you do it?
@@pippas5808 I was a pre-k teacher for decades and had curated about 1500 special books over the years that were in my classroom, and the rest were at home. Once I retired from teaching and storytelling due to illness, my identity changed and the books now made me sad and grieved, so I donated them to fellow teachers, schools and friends. The other books in my home were much easier to declutter, but it took a while as I adore books more than anything else.
Last November, it’s been 10 years since I separated from my husband. I had to buy several things for my new home and I still have almost all off them. Way to go girl!
This is what was missing for me when I joined minimalism. I was stuck in a “declutter so I can buy the best version of everything” cycle. Underconsumption being a trend made everything click, and I’m so happy exploring deeper ways to appreciate what I own instead of browsing stores online all the time!❤
This makes me feel so good about my “vintage” wares like the saucepan from my childhood, and my great-grandmother’s cheese grater.. it’s just the coolest that these evoke warm memories of young me in the kitchen watching and tasting. We are still using our wedding housewares from 27 years ago; as well as household and clothing items from our parents! I’m 51. much of this is the same age as me and I think it’s so special that it’s been used for generations. So I try to “shop our closets” before bringing a new item in… often discovering something sentimental (and likely forgotten about) in storage to use and breathe new life into. 💕🍵
I am pleased to say we, too, use most of the same pots and pans and other kitchen items since we were married (46 years) and still very happy with them! 😄
Love your watering can philosophy. I have had the same, not particularly attractive, yellow plastic watering can for close to 50 years now. It's been a constant in my life for so long. Many plants have come and gone but the watering can remains.
Think of all the money saved by not having a tv! Not to mention all the time saved that can be better spent reading books or enjoying the important things in life.
That sunrise lamp is a GAME-CHANGER for living in the mid-west in the US. My partner and I both struggle with seasonal depression, and the lamp is so helpful for both of us to use throughout the day as well as in the mornings.
I have a Irish wool cardigan I will always keep! (its been mended/darned a few places and will continue to repair when needed). Pewter candlestick holders my mom gave me, One is dented but they hold so many memories and precious to me. A blue pottery bowl I got at a thrift store 30 years ago. My childhood teddy bear. A wood salad bowl that was a gift, gets better with age and use.
I live in the US and wake up lights are DEFINITELY common in my state (but I'm farther north, where winters are long and dark). I call it my happy lamp and I've had mine for over eight years (it's a Phillips just like yours in the video).
The oldest things I have are a set of cooking pots and hand towels we've had since I was a toddler in the late 1960s, so they're sixty years old or more. The pots are Rena copper-clad aluminum, high-quality and still going strong. Current housewares are flimsier, very expensive, or have more plastic. The towels are light blue and worn, so I use them as napkins (serviettes). Next-oldest is three Corning Ware plates and "Grab-It" bowls that we bought when I was in junior high for a vacation house. Third-oldest is my component stereo from the 1990s. All these help connect with my childhood and I've decided are "my style". So when I'm looking in the thrift shops I look for those same kind of pots and bowls. The plates I'll probably never find again because they were less common.... Thanks for introducing your plant friends... Wake-up lights exist in US stores occasionally but I don't know anybody who has one. I don't have to wake up early so I wake up whenever by body does. I only use an alarm a couple times a year for early-morning appointments/trips/meetings.
I have a pretty cloth (canvas) laundry hamper that I bought at a charity auction for 120 dollars! It was full of TP and other bathroom supplies but still, probably all told only worth half that. But I love it, and I never want to get rid of it, so I do not EVER put laundry in it WET. Towels etc hang on the back of a door or on a peg until dry.
I'm starting to realize that it's very difficult for me to stay attached to the things I own sometimes, but within my wardrobe at least, there are a few jackets and coats that I've continued to wear over the years (ie. my North Face jacket, my black winter coat, my tan overcoat from H&M and my Levi's denim jacket). I've also held onto the same two pairs of black sneakers for at least a couple of years now that I use for work. I'm not sure what causes me to become detached from stuff so easily, but I can't say that this is a "bad" thing. I'm more sentimental when it comes to relationships, and especially ones that bring the most joy and value to my life. I guess this means that when it comes to my own journey with minimalism, I'm already in a place where I am content with the possessions I have. Now I just want to move forward and continue pursuing what brings me value, and spend less time chasing what doesn't.
Hi, Vera. I'm in love with how beautifully you present your content and also how your videos made me treasure my highly sensitive self. Thank you, for being yourself ~ honest and true. May you grow from strength to strength. Lots of love to you! 🌻♥️ Fun fact: My late aunt was also named Vera. 😊
I used a wake up light when I lived in Alaska, during the winter. I was accustomed to rising with the sun, but when the sun doesn't come up until 10 am, the wake-up light really helped!
Love this! Most of my possessions have been with me for over 10 years. My favorites are Chinese and Japanese figurines my mother had. They're beautiful and unique. My plant babies are also over 10 years old. My eldest is 18 haha. Keeping possessions that you enjoy for a long time gives a cozy and warm feeling. It's also a huge money saver because those things don't need to be purchased for a long time or at all. Nowadays I don't want to buy something that I can't picture owning for at least 10 years. You inspire me with your bonsai and am thinking of buying one❤
I have a book with stories by Astrid Lindgren that was a gift from my best friends as we were still in elementary school ( I am 52 now, yes, that book IS old). I love this book so much, and I will never ever give it away. When I was still living with my parents, I read one particular story every Christmas eve, and it always made be cry because it's oh so beautiful.
I bought my home 20 years ago. I have changed many things about the home, but the clothes line in the backyard has remained. I use it quite a bit in summer for drying linens and rugs. It’s not much to look at, but I feel so blessed to have it.
Decluttering tip; I didn't know what was in my two storage bins, the drawer in my dressing table, or the junk drawer in my kitchen. I thought one day, I never use anything that's stored there, so I obbiously don't need it", so I just dumped it all without going through it. ❤
The wake up light is a northern hemisphere thing. I have one in Minnesota USA. Winter months are brutal- dark when I get up dark when I go home from work.
I bought a simular lamp a few years ago at Lidl, I love it. Light comes on and after a few minutes I usually listen to birds or the sound of waves,lovely. And no app necessary.
Thanks very much for this Vera. I hope you don’t mind me making a comment about your washing taking sometimes several days to dry. My son lives in a flat (in UK) and his washing took ages to dry. I bought him a heated rail which looks very similar to your new drying rail. He’s very pleased with it and things like bedding dries quite quickly. He didn’t have a separate room to store the wet washing in though which you do have and it’s out of the way.
I have like a stuffed animal (a bunny), that I got when I was 7 years old, to keep me company at the hospital while recovering from a pretty big (lifesaving) heartsurgery. I'm now 38 years old and I'm NEVER getting rid of that bunny ❤
Thanks for this video! I had to pause and quickly list things I have had for 10+ years, lol. This exercise showed me the importance of buying quality items when I can because I tend to keep things and 'make do' for a long time 😃 And yes, my daughter has a wake-up lamp and we are in Canada.
Loved this video. I live in the US and we consume too much. I love learning from your channel because I find Dutch culture interesting. I’m a forever a student so thanks for being an amazing teacher.
Hi Vera, yes, the sun-light clocks are very common in France, it is sold in a shop like Nature et découverte, for exemple, but many other shops too. Just because you asked. 👋
I have had a laundry basket for over 20 years. It is so sturdy, one of the slats broke at the bottom when my son rode in it down the stairs! He was 12 at the time. He is now 34. I still use it and won't replace it either because I have yet to see one this sturdy. My hamper I had long time but the lid cracked during a move and then I used it gorgeous collecting my recyclables. Easy to wash to!
I think we are like the same person?? It's all the little things you mention 😂 you and your partner should play "It Takes Two" together, it's on switch/xbox/playstation!
I recently got a light/sound clock (and charger!) And Im really loving it ; and my son’s girlfriend has one too- I think it’s likely chosen by those who live in long dark winters, and those who are sensitive -both needing natural cycles of sunlight light and circadian rhythm support around sleep.
I bought my winter coat in February 2004. 20 years. It’s great, black, covers my bum, has a removable hood. Still going strong. I bought a pair of Keen sandals in 2010. Still in great condition. Worth Every Penny. And I have the kitchen table from my childhood home. My parents got it in the 70s from their friends. That’s an oldie but goodie.
Curating my home library (by which I mean shelves!) often involves change, but some things have been permanent for decades. I actually have a radio/CD player that must be 20 years old and works great. Even plays cassettes. Folks know what those are, haha?
Thank you for the deodorant info! I've been looking for a new kind since what we have here in US is very... well, we don't have a lot of options to put it mildly. I'm excited to get something really nice for myself. And what a great video!! I'm surprised because I didn't think as a minimalist you could keep so many things. I'm still on my decluttering journey, so this was very inspiring. 🥰
I think it's great that you're talking about things you won't declutter because there's such an emphasis on the things we 'should' get rid of. My plants are things I definitely won't declutter because they bring a nice feeling to my home and I love caring for them.
I use a wake-up light alarm on my cell phone. I strongly dislike being awakened to the sound of an alarm.. that startle reflex stays with me all day. If anyone is interested in any type of wake-up light... remember you can use a timer on your lamp plug and set it to turn on at the time you would normally wake up... super inexpensive and easy to set up. Just remember wake-up lights only work when you are in a darkened or blacked out bedroom.. if you have a lot of natural light coming through the windows you won't notice your light turning on.
I live in the US and use a clock with a wake up light every day. We have blackout curtains in the bedroom because my husband works nightshift, so the clock is a year-round essential! I actually have the exact same one you have and love it for the same reason- you don’t need your phone or internet to use it! 😊👏 I hate how you need to have an app for so many things these days! 😓
It's good to keep what sparks joy even if they are old. Sering those items that spark that joy means so much to a person. We have pots, pans, a watering can, and even quilt covers that are over 10 years old.. ❤
I just recently bought a sunrise simulation (or wake-up) light since I struggle getting up in the morning when it's winter. Also, that exact lamp is still available, I believe. I've seen it or similar on Amazon (if you use it). There are still many options available that don't rely on apps/internet.
Hello! 😊Most e-readers have very little blue light (and of course depending on brand). The technology behind it is a bit different and in addition to that you can turn the light on/off or turn on automatic mode which adjusts the light according to light in your room. I am big fan of e-books and ever since I have my with built in light I would not go back to be without it. Do not worry about that when you will have to replace the old one you have. 😉💕
Such a wonderful video! I've kept an iron aquarium stand that my husband and I found by a dumpster about 24 years ago! It's served many purposes and is currently a plant stand.
Haha My husband and I joke about our eclectic cottage shiek style. Almost everything in our home is very old. We have many items from family that we use, because they work. Furniture handed down, blankets, home-made, dishes,cups, glasses, hair brushes, plants.... i have a hibiscus, plant that i bought when i was 13 years old that still blooms each year. I am 62 now. I have entrusted it to dear friends over my life when we have travelled. We love these items, and we only declutter when we no longer need them. When that happens, i always try to find a home for them, or another use. In Canada there are free give away sites where we are able to give items to people who are searching for something free. I usually feel good to be able to pass things on. We do buy what we need, but love items that we own, that have been around for what seems like forever. I love your perspective, and totally agree.
I also use a wake up light like yours. It's common also in switzerland. But it's sometimes depressing when you wake up early in the winter and you realize that it's still so dark outside. 😅 Fortunately I only have to wake up really early once in a while😊
I have this beautiful Chinese evergreen and I have had it for 3 years and still going strong. I love your content and it has helped me to be more conscientious when I shop.
I loved the gratitude part you expressed. I think some people think that minimalists don't value belongings at all, but in my case minimalism has helped me value the items I do own even more then when they were lost amongst clutter. I have exactly the same wake up light you have! So it isn't just a Netherlands thing lol. I've also had mine for over 10 years and hope that it lasts for many more years to come.
I got the same type of wake up light (in Germany 😉) as a gift a few years ago and I absolutely love it. Used to have an alarm clock that would show the time on my ceiling but I didn't know how much this stressed me out until I got that new wake up light. I sleep better and waking up is so much easier 😊 I loved the video btw. Im Like that too. I love decluttering, but there are certain things I hold on to. Also gave away some things (because I had to or because I got convinced that I should) and now I regret that...
I find the message of this video so refreshing 😊 it’s nice to take time to appreciate and have gratitude for the things that add true value to our lives ❤
I've had my army clothes since 2001 when I was sworn in! ❤it! And my favorite Voltron toys until last yr, from 1985 lol I miss the 80s toys, I was born in 80 so......lol
FYI readers do not have blue light. That’s just the difference between computers, tablets or smartphones. So when the Kobo dies you do not have to worry about the back light. Believe me you’ll appreciate it
Almost everything in my home is very old, I just take care of my stuff. I took a lot of things from my grandma's home, my living room set, a cupboard in my dinning room, my dining room set. I have some plates cups and trays from my grand grandmother. I even have her sewing machine, I think it's older than 100 years old, and I even use it, since it's easer to use than my modern machine. I have nerver tought so much about it, but this video actually made me realize I keep my stuff for a long time.
Vera one of my things that I have kept longer than 10 years is my husband. LOL 😊 We have a kitchen table that is older than 50 years. Its solid wood (oak). It has scratches but we love it. Its a keeper. Thank you for sharing ❤❤
I had a really good friend from Amsterdam. I remember feeling so good when he told me I would love the Netherlands because the people are more slow-paced-like me❣️ Though I haven’t made it yet! It looks like you don’t have dryers?
We do have dryers overhere 😅 but you have to buy it yourself. And because they use so much energy and also wear out your clothes, sheets and towels a lot of us just hang our clothes to dry.
I'd struggle to find something that is less than 10 years old! One of my oldest items is the jumper that my grandmother knitted for my father and which I inherited when he died. I have photos of him wearing it in the early 70s, so it's at least 50 years old. I also have a glass mug that belonged to my great grandmother which is about 125 years old - it doesn't feel good to drink out of it as it's so clunky, so instead, I use it as a water jar to clean my brushes when I am painting.
i recently de cluttered and accidentally lost a few things that were really precious to me. So just be careful guys. they were inside of other things. But ill live lol
Thank you so much for letting us know that we don’t have to declutter those things that are sentimental or that we just enjoy having around. So often minimalist want most areas, if not all areas decluttered and for those of us who feel deeply in our hearts about most areas of our lives, it can produce some anxiety. Thank you for your honesty for us who are similar in being sensitive in life. You are appreciated.❤️
I completely understand about your ereader. My first gen Kindle still works as a reader only. Amazon has turned off its online features so I need to choose my books on another device and have them pushed to that reader. The reason I prefer to still read on this one and not the newer one my partner bought me is the ones push games, apps and send you pop up notications when you are reading and don't allow you to block or prevent them. Very annoying and it ruins my reading experience.
My great grandma's corner desk and bookshelf/little tv stand/multipurpose thing that has space under the back ledge for wires. I think she used it for a record player. I got one in 2002 and the other around 2011 when my grandpa was rearranging his stuff, a blue fleece pullover my other grandma got me like 2006ish?, my mom's bundt pan from 1996, grandma's glass diamond patterned canister 2011ish, and her mom's heart shaped springform pan and stand mixer. It's funny you made a video about this kind of thing because I've been looking for more sustainable or heirloom quality items so I don't have to keep buying things in the long term.
Hey Vera! Interesting video and perspective of highlighting things that you have not decluttered in a long time. Very creative thinking! I have to say I have kept most of the sentimental things in my life like photos, books and even my lecture notes and projects I did while I was at uni in the UK which are more than 15 years old!
I also have a wake up light and love it. Maybe even the exact same as you have ;) they are also available here in Germany. Waking up to a room that is slowly getting brighter is very nice, especially in autumn and winter. Love your videos, they are always interesting and thought-provoking. 🤗
I bought recently a clock light alarm from Amazon that isn't smart. It just need a socket to get power and that's it. I think it was around £20. I live in the UK.
Hi Vera and everyone 😊 My forever bargain is a 5 tier steamer that you use on the hob. The top tier is a dish for heating things or reheating. I bought it about 20 years ago when a quality store was closing down for £7. It still looks like new and I hope I never part with it. Not many things 10 years plus, but now I buy solid wood furniture, that will be with me forever. ❤
I have a smart bulb with my Alexa system and I use the wakeup lighting. It works so well, especially in the winter when it's dark and I might have a harder time getting out of bed. It gently rouses me as the light gets gradually brighter, it takes 15 minutes to cycle up to full-strength, and then my alarm goes off.
I have the same sunrise simulator Philips alarm clock and it’s a game changer! And I’m from Quebec, Canada so it’s not only a Dutch thing…I love it! 😉🇨🇦
I have a lot of old things in my home. I just don't see the point in replacing things just because they're old. I only buy something new when the old is broken beyond repair. I had some plants that I bought to decorate my university dorm room. I only just had to get rid of them last year after 24 years of them moving house with me. The draceana plant was about 14 feet tall and we no longer had anywhere large enough to store it. I cut it into sections which rooted and started to grow, I gave most of them away. I have a lumie clock. I don't need it in the summer because the sun is up far earlier than I need to get up. But it's so helpful in the winter. You have been very lucky with your washing machine. Mine average about 2 years before they start to shake themselves apart.
Hi Vera this is a fantastic video your pots look very good after using them for 11 years I’ve always been in the habit of binning stuff just load the car and take it to the nearest recycling dump and replacing it with new colours etc but last summer I donated 12 back refuge bags of clothes and white high Gloss furniture to a charity facebook page I put 3 full big bags of various items new toiletries ornaments candles etc etc etc to my local charity shop’ wow 😊I felt so happy to be rid of it let my minimalist frugal life began I replace my furniture with 3 pieces of oak what I’m hoping will be with me for life’ I have a pair of denim shorts I bought in turkey 28 years ago I haven’t worn them for many years and I know I never will again as it would be mutton dressed as lamb I have also kept a pilot style double Breasted Navy blue blazer fitted style what still fits me to day they are memory I thought I was the Bees knees wearing them 🤣🤣 I’m still learning how to be better at minimal and hopefully this year I will be organised a little better thank you for your videos they are help me so much 🥰
Off hand, I can think of two skirts that I’ve kept for 10+ years. One is like 12 years old (OMG! I just realized this while typing because I know when I bought it), and the other skirt is closer to 20 years old. They’ve literally been with me through thick (weight gain) and thin (weight loss). They look good dressed up and dressed down, and I will NEVER get rid of them!
I ha e recently replaced pota and pans that were nearly 30 years old. And that's only because they were scraped and I didn't know what the coating was on them. I have dish towels that are over 20 years old. I have clothes that are well over 10 years old. My father bought new bedroom furniture in 1978 for my Mom. I have the bedframe and my ex-sister-in-law had the dresser. I have the breakfast table and stools that my nephew and his wife gave to me; they are nearly 30 years old. LOL. I'm old!
I love this video, thank you Vera! I really hope your mum is feeling much better! 🙏 I really love that little angel, very cute and special! 💖 Also the lovely sentimental items from your travel in Japan and from your dad. They surely have positive energy as well! 🥰 I have most of my clothings for over 20-25 years!! I have quite a few outfits, but most of them I bought when I was teenager!! I am 42 now. They still fit and in an excellent condition. I never follow the fashion, my pieces are just my favourite, they look great when I put them on and for me evergreen items! 😍They are really great quality. Also my winter coat! I have it since I was 16!! And I just decided to try to colour it with black fabric ink, as it was kinda faded in some spots and did not wear it for years because of that. And now it looks like new!!!! Still fits, excellent quality, and now I do not need to find another one online and offline (which is a challenge for me, as I am very picky and those coats are either ridiculously expensive + really not my style, or just not a a good material and thin, and you cannot even try on as they have only online shops (+ the hassle of return). So I am super pleased that I can save a lot on clothings.☺🌺
Thanks for your sweet comment! Yes my mom is better now (she had a double lung transplant a few years ago that saved her life). Also, love that you still have those clothing pieces and that they're still in good condition! Must be very high quality :)
Such a lovely news to hear about your mum Vera! @@SimpleHappyZen 💖🙏Thank you so much! Yes they high quality I believe but also were very affordable back in the days and I still treasure them :-) Also, I love your contents for years now, very inspiring, thank you! 🙏💝💕
I totally hear you on the TV size thing, it gets frustrating how we get forced into buying something larger because that's all that is available. My car is one of the last years of it's model with a CD player and I'm going to drive it until the wheels fall off just because I like having a CD player LOL I've never heard of a wake up light before, but what a great idea. RE: Closets--American's don't realize how different construction is in the UK and Europe, even in newer construction. Ireland is a great example, homes there aren't stick built but are block based, so putting a built in closet would be a serious waste of space!
Here are a few things that i have that are more than 10 years old. 🇮🇳 1. A retractable bracelet that my aunt had given when i was a kid 2. A white bead necklace from my childhood 3. Silver anklets from my childhood 4. A small squeaky dalmatian keychain i had purchased in a train 5. Photos of me and my girl gang from college 6. Pieces of jewellery i had purchased when i became financially independent. 7. A few clothes items 8. Plushies 9. A plastic teddy bear that our janitor had bought for me from dubai. 10. My moms doll from her childhood 😂 11. A friendship band a friend had given to all the girls in the gang 12. Birthday greeting cards i had received. 13. Pots, pans, spoons, laddles, crockery. More than 40 years old 😊😊😊 14. Books 15. Cloth bag for grocery. My friend had given to me. 16. An embroidered pouch with drawstrings. I had picked up from a fair 17. Dad's watch 18. A watch my mom had brought for me on the eve of my 10th standard final exam because my dad's watch stopped working. I used to use his watch😊 19. Mom' has her oxford dictionary 😊 20. Television , refrigerator, mixer grinder more than 20 years 21. Washing machine The appliances are in good health because mom maintains them well. 😊 We shifted recently to a new home and we gave away a few items. Although these were functional they did have wear and tear and were flawed..i was grateful though 1. Beds amd beddings 2. Dining table 3. Cupboards
A big thanks to Wild Deodorants for sponsoring this video! 🌱 Use this link bit.ly/VERALOVE20 and my discount code VERALOVE20 to get 20% OFF on all Wild products.
THANKYOU!
I just watched a previous video with you talking about Native deodorant lol. Which one do you like better? I’ve used native a few times and I like it, but sometimes I’ll buy one and it doesn’t seem to work.
@@jennamartin4098 Hi there! Yes haha I used to work with Native and I also really liked their deodorants, but they stopped shopping to Europe a while ago. I do prefer Wild over Native now, I think their scents are even better and overall the packaging and 'system' is better in my opinion. I just really like the reusable case with these little compostable refills. Not only is there no plastic and no waste, but it's also more user-friendly. 😊
My kids. They keep making it through every declutter
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I have a grape ivy plant that my favorite aunt gave me when I was 14! I’ve shared cuttings over the years with others. Last fall my plant started to die. I am not sure why. I thought I was going to lose it, but I took some cuttings that still looked OK and they are still surviving in water. I’m turning 65 next month so I will have had the plant for 51 years! Hopefully it will keep going when I pot it. I hope that you have your bonsai tree for many many years too! ❤
I feel like a bonsai tree. Some days everything going well. Other days I'm going through something 🤣
Hahahah yes!
Best comment! 😂
Me too!!
As I look around my apartment almost EVERYTHING is over 20, 30 or even 50 years old 😂 A cherished family rocker, some handmade items from people I love, like a hand carved wooden clog, a pottery dish , artwork, and needlepoint duck and goose. A few favorite books (I decluttered over 2000!) also have stood the test of time. I love that my minimalist apartment has only things of great meaning, beauty, and usefulness.
Amazing! also, decluttering over 2000 books, respect! :D
@@SimpleHappyZen A VERY painful process, but it turned out that lots of thing I had (including the books) were part of a dream that wasn’t going to happen, a fantasy self, or a past identity …haha sounds like I’m a spy!
I am in awe that you decluttered 2,000 books!!! I have cut down from 9 bookcases to three over the past 10 years, but that will be nowhere near 2,000. How did you do it?
@@pippas5808 I was a pre-k teacher for decades and had curated about 1500 special books over the years that were in my classroom, and the rest were at home. Once I retired from teaching and storytelling due to illness, my identity changed and the books now made me sad and grieved, so I donated them to fellow teachers, schools and friends. The other books in my home were much easier to declutter, but it took a while as I adore books more than anything else.
Last November, it’s been 10 years since I separated from my husband. I had to buy several things for my new home and I still have almost all off them. Way to go girl!
Congrats! 🤗💕
🥰
This is what was missing for me when I joined minimalism. I was stuck in a “declutter so I can buy the best version of everything” cycle. Underconsumption being a trend made everything click, and I’m so happy exploring deeper ways to appreciate what I own instead of browsing stores online all the time!❤
This makes me feel so good about my “vintage” wares like the saucepan from my childhood, and my great-grandmother’s cheese grater.. it’s just the coolest that these evoke warm memories of young me in the kitchen watching and tasting. We are still using our wedding housewares from 27 years ago; as well as household and clothing items from our parents! I’m 51. much of this is the same age as me and I think it’s so special that it’s been used for generations.
So I try to “shop our closets” before bringing a new item in… often discovering something sentimental (and likely forgotten about) in storage to use and breathe new life into. 💕🍵
I am pleased to say we, too, use most of the same pots and pans and other kitchen items since we were married (46 years) and still very happy with them! 😄
Wow 46 years? Impressive!!
Love your watering can philosophy. I have had the same, not particularly attractive, yellow plastic watering can for close to 50 years now. It's been a constant in my life for so long. Many plants have come and gone but the watering can remains.
I have not had a TV for over 30 years and I don’t miss it.
wow that's a long time!
--- It's been 19 years for me, with no TV!
Yes, I got rid of all TVs about 8 years ago. One of the best decisions I ever made.
Think of all the money saved by not having a tv!
Not to mention all the time saved that can be better spent reading books or enjoying the important things in life.
7 years here.. don't miss it.. but I get Vera's point... different lifestyles
That sunrise lamp is a GAME-CHANGER for living in the mid-west in the US. My partner and I both struggle with seasonal depression, and the lamp is so helpful for both of us to use throughout the day as well as in the mornings.
Yes it's so helpful during those darker months! 😊❤️
Game changer in Belgium too😊 i have mine since 2005
I’m in the US as well, and I have the exact lamp/alarm clock you have. I think it’s more of a dark/cold climate thing!
I have a Irish wool cardigan I will always keep! (its been mended/darned a few places and will continue to repair when needed). Pewter candlestick holders my mom gave me, One is dented but they hold so many memories and precious to me. A blue pottery bowl I got at a thrift store 30 years ago. My childhood teddy bear. A wood salad bowl that was a gift, gets better with age and use.
I love that you have a plant going through something. Same, bonsai, same.
Haha they're just like people :D
I live in the US and wake up lights are DEFINITELY common in my state (but I'm farther north, where winters are long and dark). I call it my happy lamp and I've had mine for over eight years (it's a Phillips just like yours in the video).
Ah so cool! :)
The oldest things I have are a set of cooking pots and hand towels we've had since I was a toddler in the late 1960s, so they're sixty years old or more. The pots are Rena copper-clad aluminum, high-quality and still going strong. Current housewares are flimsier, very expensive, or have more plastic. The towels are light blue and worn, so I use them as napkins (serviettes). Next-oldest is three Corning Ware plates and "Grab-It" bowls that we bought when I was in junior high for a vacation house. Third-oldest is my component stereo from the 1990s. All these help connect with my childhood and I've decided are "my style". So when I'm looking in the thrift shops I look for those same kind of pots and bowls. The plates I'll probably never find again because they were less common.... Thanks for introducing your plant friends... Wake-up lights exist in US stores occasionally but I don't know anybody who has one. I don't have to wake up early so I wake up whenever by body does. I only use an alarm a couple times a year for early-morning appointments/trips/meetings.
Ik ga heel vaak kamperen, en heb kampeerspullen, zoals tent, slaapzaak, roeiboot. Dit zijn mijn dingen die ik al jaren heb)
I have the same laundry basket now for 44 years. Work great for me. Extra note…. I will be in the Netherlands at the end of next month. So excited.
I have a pretty cloth (canvas) laundry hamper that I bought at a charity auction for 120 dollars! It was full of TP and other bathroom supplies but still, probably all told only worth half that. But I love it, and I never want to get rid of it, so I do not EVER put laundry in it WET. Towels etc hang on the back of a door or on a peg until dry.
I'm starting to realize that it's very difficult for me to stay attached to the things I own sometimes, but within my wardrobe at least, there are a few jackets and coats that I've continued to wear over the years (ie. my North Face jacket, my black winter coat, my tan overcoat from H&M and my Levi's denim jacket). I've also held onto the same two pairs of black sneakers for at least a couple of years now that I use for work.
I'm not sure what causes me to become detached from stuff so easily, but I can't say that this is a "bad" thing. I'm more sentimental when it comes to relationships, and especially ones that bring the most joy and value to my life. I guess this means that when it comes to my own journey with minimalism, I'm already in a place where I am content with the possessions I have. Now I just want to move forward and continue pursuing what brings me value, and spend less time chasing what doesn't.
Hi, Vera.
I'm in love with how beautifully you present your content and also how your videos made me treasure my highly sensitive self. Thank you, for being yourself ~ honest and true. May you grow from strength to strength. Lots of love to you! 🌻♥️
Fun fact: My late aunt was also named Vera. 😊
I used a wake up light when I lived in Alaska, during the winter. I was accustomed to rising with the sun, but when the sun doesn't come up until 10 am, the wake-up light really helped!
Wow! :)
Love this! Most of my possessions have been with me for over 10 years. My favorites are Chinese and Japanese figurines my mother had. They're beautiful and unique. My plant babies are also over 10 years old. My eldest is 18 haha. Keeping possessions that you enjoy for a long time gives a cozy and warm feeling. It's also a huge money saver because those things don't need to be purchased for a long time or at all. Nowadays I don't want to buy something that I can't picture owning for at least 10 years. You inspire me with your bonsai and am thinking of buying one❤
I have a book with stories by Astrid Lindgren that was a gift from my best friends as we were still in elementary school ( I am 52 now, yes, that book IS old). I love this book so much, and I will never ever give it away. When I was still living with my parents, I read one particular story every Christmas eve, and it always made be cry because it's oh so beautiful.
I bought my home 20 years ago. I have changed many things about the home, but the clothes line in the backyard has remained. I use it quite a bit in summer for drying linens and rugs. It’s not much to look at, but I feel so blessed to have it.
I call those kinds of spaces the Room of Requirements. lol
Decluttering tip; I didn't know what was in my two storage bins, the drawer in my dressing table, or the junk drawer in my kitchen. I thought one day, I never use anything that's stored there, so I obbiously don't need it", so I just dumped it all without going through it. ❤
The wake up light is a northern hemisphere thing. I have one in Minnesota USA. Winter months are brutal- dark when I get up dark when I go home from work.
Ah makes sense :) Yes those darker months are tough...
I bought a simular lamp a few years ago at Lidl, I love it. Light comes on and after a few minutes I usually listen to birds or the sound of waves,lovely. And no app necessary.
Thanks very much for this Vera. I hope you don’t mind me making a comment about your washing taking sometimes several days to dry. My son lives in a flat (in UK) and his washing took ages to dry. I bought him a heated rail which looks very similar to your new drying rail. He’s very pleased with it and things like bedding dries quite quickly. He didn’t have a separate room to store the wet washing in though which you do have and it’s out of the way.
I have like a stuffed animal (a bunny), that I got when I was 7 years old, to keep me company at the hospital while recovering from a pretty big (lifesaving) heartsurgery. I'm now 38 years old and I'm NEVER getting rid of that bunny ❤
Aw that's so special and meaningful... I hope you're doing well now after your surgery, give your bunny a squeeze from me! :)
I’m Swedish. I also have a wake up lamp! Makes a huge difference in the winter months!
Ah nice! :)
Thanks for this video! I had to pause and quickly list things I have had for 10+ years, lol. This exercise showed me the importance of buying quality items when I can because I tend to keep things and 'make do' for a long time 😃 And yes, my daughter has a wake-up lamp and we are in Canada.
I would look into electronic repair if the lamp ever goes out! Support recycling/repair-work and keep your favorite lamp! 🎉
I like the beauty and cleanliness of a simple environment. Just not there but am working on it.❤
I live in the United States and my wife has a wake up clock/lamp just like yours! She loves it.
Nice :)
Loved this video. I live in the US and we consume too much. I love learning from your channel because I find Dutch culture interesting. I’m a forever a student so thanks for being an amazing teacher.
Hi Vera, yes, the sun-light clocks are very common in France, it is sold in a shop like Nature et découverte, for exemple, but many other shops too. Just because you asked. 👋
Your wavy hair makes you look good. I love it than the past straight hair❤
I have had a laundry basket for over 20 years. It is so sturdy, one of the slats broke at the bottom when my son rode in it down the stairs! He was 12 at the time. He is now 34. I still use it and won't replace it either because I have yet to see one this sturdy. My hamper I had long time but the lid cracked during a move and then I used it gorgeous collecting my recyclables. Easy to wash to!
I think we are like the same person?? It's all the little things you mention 😂 you and your partner should play "It Takes Two" together, it's on switch/xbox/playstation!
Nothing like a great reading chair! 😊
I recently got a light/sound clock (and charger!) And Im really loving it ; and my son’s girlfriend has one too- I think it’s likely chosen by those who live in long dark winters, and those who are sensitive -both needing natural cycles of sunlight light and circadian rhythm support around sleep.
Wisconsin, USA. I have that same wake up light! It’s amazing.
I bought my winter coat in February 2004. 20 years.
It’s great, black, covers my bum, has a removable hood.
Still going strong.
I bought a pair of Keen sandals in 2010. Still in great condition.
Worth Every Penny.
And I have the kitchen table from my childhood home. My parents got it in the 70s from their friends.
That’s an oldie but goodie.
Curating my home library (by which I mean shelves!) often involves change, but some things have been permanent for decades. I actually have a radio/CD player that must be 20 years old and works great. Even plays cassettes. Folks know what those are, haha?
Yes! I've had my lumie SAD light for over 20 years and it's only on the second bulb!
Thank you for the deodorant info! I've been looking for a new kind since what we have here in US is very... well, we don't have a lot of options to put it mildly. I'm excited to get something really nice for myself. And what a great video!! I'm surprised because I didn't think as a minimalist you could keep so many things. I'm still on my decluttering journey, so this was very inspiring. 🥰
I think it's great that you're talking about things you won't declutter because there's such an emphasis on the things we 'should' get rid of. My plants are things I definitely won't declutter because they bring a nice feeling to my home and I love caring for them.
I use a wake-up light alarm on my cell phone. I strongly dislike being awakened to the sound of an alarm.. that startle reflex stays with me all day. If anyone is interested in any type of wake-up light...
remember you can use a timer on your lamp plug and set it to turn on at the time you would normally wake up... super inexpensive and easy to set up. Just remember wake-up lights only work when you are in a darkened or blacked out bedroom..
if you have a lot of natural light coming through the windows you won't notice your light turning on.
I live in the US and use a clock with a wake up light every day. We have blackout curtains in the bedroom because my husband works nightshift, so the clock is a year-round essential! I actually have the exact same one you have and love it for the same reason- you don’t need your phone or internet to use it! 😊👏 I hate how you need to have an app for so many things these days! 😓
It's good to keep what sparks joy even if they are old. Sering those items that spark that joy means so much to a person. We have pots, pans, a watering can, and even quilt covers that are over 10 years old.. ❤
Ooooh I want a wake up light!!!
Hahaha :)
I just recently bought a sunrise simulation (or wake-up) light since I struggle getting up in the morning when it's winter. Also, that exact lamp is still available, I believe. I've seen it or similar on Amazon (if you use it). There are still many options available that don't rely on apps/internet.
Hello! 😊Most e-readers have very little blue light (and of course depending on brand). The technology behind it is a bit different and in addition to that you can turn the light on/off or turn on automatic mode which adjusts the light according to light in your room. I am big fan of e-books and ever since I have my with built in light I would not go back to be without it. Do not worry about that when you will have to replace the old one you have. 😉💕
Such a wonderful video! I've kept an iron aquarium stand that my husband and I found by a dumpster about 24 years ago! It's served many purposes and is currently a plant stand.
Haha My husband and I joke about our eclectic cottage shiek style. Almost everything in our home is very old. We have many items from family that we use, because they work. Furniture handed down, blankets, home-made, dishes,cups, glasses, hair brushes, plants.... i have a hibiscus, plant that i bought when i was 13 years old that still blooms each year. I am 62 now. I have entrusted it to dear friends over my life when we have travelled. We love these items, and we only declutter when we no longer need them. When that happens, i always try to find a home for them, or another use. In Canada there are free give away sites where we are able to give items to people who are searching for something free. I usually feel good to be able to pass things on. We do buy what we need, but love items that we own, that have been around for what seems like forever. I love your perspective, and totally agree.
I also use a wake up light like yours. It's common also in switzerland. But it's sometimes depressing when you wake up early in the winter and you realize that it's still so dark outside. 😅
Fortunately I only have to wake up really early once in a while😊
I have this beautiful Chinese evergreen and I have had it for 3 years and still going strong. I love your content and it has helped me to be more conscientious when I shop.
I loved the gratitude part you expressed. I think some people think that minimalists don't value belongings at all, but in my case minimalism has helped me value the items I do own even more then when they were lost amongst clutter.
I have exactly the same wake up light you have! So it isn't just a Netherlands thing lol. I've also had mine for over 10 years and hope that it lasts for many more years to come.
I have the same wake up light, also for over ten years and I love it 😊 I'm from Germany, so maybe it's a central / nothern European thing 😉
Vera, can you explain ‘niksen’ in a video sometime? It sounds wonderful
Ah good idea! :)
I got the same type of wake up light (in Germany 😉) as a gift a few years ago and I absolutely love it. Used to have an alarm clock that would show the time on my ceiling but I didn't know how much this stressed me out until I got that new wake up light. I sleep better and waking up is so much easier 😊
I loved the video btw. Im Like that too. I love decluttering, but there are certain things I hold on to.
Also gave away some things (because I had to or because I got convinced that I should) and now I regret that...
Lol, I think I have the same exact TV as you. And I feel the same way about it -- it's big enough, new enough, cozy.
I find the message of this video so refreshing 😊 it’s nice to take time to appreciate and have gratitude for the things that add true value to our lives ❤
I've had my army clothes since 2001 when I was sworn in! ❤it! And my favorite Voltron toys until last yr, from 1985 lol I miss the 80s toys, I was born in 80 so......lol
If a person held depth in my life id keep things they gave me to remind me of the moment.... As small as a keychain!
FYI readers do not have blue light. That’s just the difference between computers, tablets or smartphones. So when the Kobo dies you do not have to worry about the back light. Believe me you’ll appreciate it
Almost everything in my home is very old, I just take care of my stuff. I took a lot of things from my grandma's home, my living room set, a cupboard in my dinning room, my dining room set. I have some plates cups and trays from my grand grandmother. I even have her sewing machine, I think it's older than 100 years old, and I even use it, since it's easer to use than my modern machine. I have nerver tought so much about it, but this video actually made me realize I keep my stuff for a long time.
We have wake-up-lights in Finland for sure, it is so dark most of the year.
American here! I use that exact same alarm clock. It helps so much with waking up in the morning on dark days.
Vera one of my things that I have kept longer than 10 years is my husband. LOL 😊 We have a kitchen table that is older than 50 years. Its solid wood (oak). It has scratches but we love it. Its a keeper. Thank you for sharing ❤❤
I had a really good friend from Amsterdam. I remember feeling so good when he told me I would love the Netherlands because the people are more slow-paced-like me❣️
Though I haven’t made it yet!
It looks like you don’t have dryers?
We do have dryers overhere 😅 but you have to buy it yourself. And because they use so much energy and also wear out your clothes, sheets and towels a lot of us just hang our clothes to dry.
I'd struggle to find something that is less than 10 years old! One of my oldest items is the jumper that my grandmother knitted for my father and which I inherited when he died. I have photos of him wearing it in the early 70s, so it's at least 50 years old. I also have a glass mug that belonged to my great grandmother which is about 125 years old - it doesn't feel good to drink out of it as it's so clunky, so instead, I use it as a water jar to clean my brushes when I am painting.
We have a bonsai in the same variety that is 20 years old. We love it so much!
Oh wow so cool!
Liked your video !
Watching from USA .
🤗
Thanks so much 🤗🍵 Hope you're having a nice day!
i recently de cluttered and accidentally lost a few things that were really precious to me. So just be careful guys. they were inside of other things. But ill live lol
Thank you so much for letting us know that we don’t have to declutter those things that are sentimental or that we just enjoy having around. So often minimalist want most areas, if not all areas decluttered and for those of us who feel deeply in our hearts about most areas of our lives, it can produce some anxiety. Thank you for your honesty for us who are similar in being sensitive in life. You are appreciated.❤️
I completely understand about your ereader. My first gen Kindle still works as a reader only. Amazon has turned off its online features so I need to choose my books on another device and have them pushed to that reader. The reason I prefer to still read on this one and not the newer one my partner bought me is the ones push games, apps and send you pop up notications when you are reading and don't allow you to block or prevent them. Very annoying and it ruins my reading experience.
That little angel your mom gave you 😍 it is so cute!
Thanks, I agree :)
My great grandma's corner desk and bookshelf/little tv stand/multipurpose thing that has space under the back ledge for wires. I think she used it for a record player. I got one in 2002 and the other around 2011 when my grandpa was rearranging his stuff, a blue fleece pullover my other grandma got me like 2006ish?, my mom's bundt pan from 1996, grandma's glass diamond patterned canister 2011ish, and her mom's heart shaped springform pan and stand mixer. It's funny you made a video about this kind of thing because I've been looking for more sustainable or heirloom quality items so I don't have to keep buying things in the long term.
I'm from the United States (California), and I'm new to a wake-up light. Very neat idea 💡
Ah nice! :)
We have exactly the same pan set haha, also over 10 years old and still going strong, I don't think these will break ever...
Hey Vera! Interesting video and perspective of highlighting things that you have not decluttered in a long time. Very creative thinking! I have to say I have kept most of the sentimental things in my life like photos, books and even my lecture notes and projects I did while I was at uni in the UK which are more than 15 years old!
That's awesome, and you'll love looking back on them in the future too :)
@@SimpleHappyZen I sure hope so. Also praying I may build new Momentos as I grow older with new friends and family
Your pots are beautifully clean!
Thanks susan! They're very easy to keep clean
Cuisinart?? Mine look exactly like them I love Mine!
I also have a wake up light and love it. Maybe even the exact same as you have ;) they are also available here in Germany. Waking up to a room that is slowly getting brighter is very nice, especially in autumn and winter. Love your videos, they are always interesting and thought-provoking. 🤗
Thank you so much and nice to hear you have them too over there! :)
I bought recently a clock light alarm from Amazon that isn't smart. It just need a socket to get power and that's it. I think it was around £20. I live in the UK.
Hi Vera and everyone 😊 My forever bargain is a 5 tier steamer that you use on the hob. The top tier is a dish for heating things or reheating. I bought it about 20 years ago when a quality store was closing down for £7. It still looks like new and I hope I never part with it. Not many things 10 years plus, but now I buy solid wood furniture, that will be with me forever. ❤
What is a hob?
The top of the oven where the pans go 😊
I have a smart bulb with my Alexa system and I use the wakeup lighting. It works so well, especially in the winter when it's dark and I might have a harder time getting out of bed. It gently rouses me as the light gets gradually brighter, it takes 15 minutes to cycle up to full-strength, and then my alarm goes off.
Ah clever!
I have the same sunrise simulator Philips alarm clock and it’s a game changer! And I’m from Quebec, Canada so it’s not only a Dutch thing…I love it! 😉🇨🇦
Wonderful tips ❤
Thanks Susan :)
I have a lot of old things in my home. I just don't see the point in replacing things just because they're old. I only buy something new when the old is broken beyond repair.
I had some plants that I bought to decorate my university dorm room. I only just had to get rid of them last year after 24 years of them moving house with me. The draceana plant was about 14 feet tall and we no longer had anywhere large enough to store it. I cut it into sections which rooted and started to grow, I gave most of them away.
I have a lumie clock. I don't need it in the summer because the sun is up far earlier than I need to get up. But it's so helpful in the winter.
You have been very lucky with your washing machine. Mine average about 2 years before they start to shake themselves apart.
Yeah it’s Vera!!
Hahaha hiya! 😁😁😁💕💕💕
Hi Vera this is a fantastic video your pots look very good after using them for 11 years I’ve always been in the habit of binning stuff just load the car and take it to the nearest recycling dump and replacing it with new colours etc but last summer I donated 12 back refuge bags of clothes and white high Gloss furniture to a charity facebook page I put 3 full big bags of various items new toiletries ornaments candles etc etc etc to my local charity shop’ wow 😊I felt so happy to be rid of it let my minimalist frugal life began I replace my furniture with 3 pieces of oak what I’m hoping will be with me for life’ I have a pair of denim shorts I bought in turkey 28 years ago I haven’t worn them for many years and I know I never will again as it would be mutton dressed as lamb I have also kept a pilot style double Breasted Navy blue blazer fitted style what still fits me to day they are memory I thought I was the Bees knees wearing them 🤣🤣 I’m still learning how to be better at minimal and hopefully this year I will be organised a little better thank you for your videos they are help me so much 🥰
I have a sweet little houseplant I've had for over 10 years since it was a cutting. My little mate I chat too aswell! 💖🌳
Aw so cute!
Off hand, I can think of two skirts that I’ve kept for 10+ years. One is like 12 years old (OMG! I just realized this while typing because I know when I bought it), and the other skirt is closer to 20 years old. They’ve literally been with me through thick (weight gain) and thin (weight loss). They look good dressed up and dressed down, and I will NEVER get rid of them!
I ha e recently replaced pota and pans that were nearly 30 years old. And that's only because they were scraped and I didn't know what the coating was on them. I have dish towels that are over 20 years old. I have clothes that are well over 10 years old. My father bought new bedroom furniture in 1978 for my Mom. I have the bedframe and my ex-sister-in-law had the dresser. I have the breakfast table and stools that my nephew and his wife gave to me; they are nearly 30 years old. LOL. I'm old!
Hahaha counting out how old our items are can make us feel old 😁😂
I like the concept for this video. It’s different. Thanks for sharing.
Glad to hear it, thank you! :)
I love this video, thank you Vera! I really hope your mum is feeling much better! 🙏 I really love that little angel, very cute and special! 💖 Also the lovely sentimental items from your travel in Japan and from your dad. They surely have positive energy as well! 🥰 I have most of my clothings for over 20-25 years!! I have quite a few outfits, but most of them I bought when I was teenager!! I am 42 now. They still fit and in an excellent condition. I never follow the fashion, my pieces are just my favourite, they look great when I put them on and for me evergreen items! 😍They are really great quality. Also my winter coat! I have it since I was 16!! And I just decided to try to colour it with black fabric ink, as it was kinda faded in some spots and did not wear it for years because of that. And now it looks like new!!!! Still fits, excellent quality, and now I do not need to find another one online and offline (which is a challenge for me, as I am very picky and those coats are either ridiculously expensive + really not my style, or just not a a good material and thin, and you cannot even try on as they have only online shops (+ the hassle of return). So I am super pleased that I can save a lot on clothings.☺🌺
Thanks for your sweet comment! Yes my mom is better now (she had a double lung transplant a few years ago that saved her life). Also, love that you still have those clothing pieces and that they're still in good condition! Must be very high quality :)
Such a lovely news to hear about your mum Vera! @@SimpleHappyZen 💖🙏Thank you so much! Yes they high quality I believe but also were very affordable back in the days and I still treasure them :-) Also, I love your contents for years now, very inspiring, thank you! 🙏💝💕
I totally hear you on the TV size thing, it gets frustrating how we get forced into buying something larger because that's all that is available. My car is one of the last years of it's model with a CD player and I'm going to drive it until the wheels fall off just because I like having a CD player LOL I've never heard of a wake up light before, but what a great idea. RE: Closets--American's don't realize how different construction is in the UK and Europe, even in newer construction. Ireland is a great example, homes there aren't stick built but are block based, so putting a built in closet would be a serious waste of space!
Here are a few things that i have that are more than 10 years old. 🇮🇳
1. A retractable bracelet that my aunt had given when i was a kid
2. A white bead necklace from my childhood
3. Silver anklets from my childhood
4. A small squeaky dalmatian keychain i had purchased in a train
5. Photos of me and my girl gang from college
6. Pieces of jewellery i had purchased when i became financially independent.
7. A few clothes items
8. Plushies
9. A plastic teddy bear that our janitor had bought for me from dubai.
10. My moms doll from her childhood 😂
11. A friendship band a friend had given to all the girls in the gang
12. Birthday greeting cards i had received.
13. Pots, pans, spoons, laddles, crockery. More than 40 years old 😊😊😊
14. Books
15. Cloth bag for grocery. My friend had given to me.
16. An embroidered pouch with drawstrings. I had picked up from a fair
17. Dad's watch
18. A watch my mom had brought for me on the eve of my 10th standard final exam because my dad's watch stopped working. I used to use his watch😊
19. Mom' has her oxford dictionary 😊
20. Television , refrigerator, mixer grinder more than 20 years
21. Washing machine
The appliances are in good health because mom maintains them well. 😊
We shifted recently to a new home and we gave away a few items. Although these were functional they did have wear and tear and were flawed..i was grateful though
1. Beds amd beddings
2. Dining table
3. Cupboards