Can't Bring Yourself to Throw it Out?

I moved to a smaller house and had so many things that wouldn't fit into the new house. They were mostly collections, mementos, and craft supplies. After I had stored a lot of it in boxes for a year, I went through it all again and found that these things no longer had as much sentimental "pull" and I was able to dispose of much of it.

Some things can be used as gifts, some recycled, and others can be donated to charity. Heirlooms make fine gifts for family members or special friends especially if you write down its history and such. I gave my son my old-but-still-good sewing machine with a note saying how I came by it, and all the baby clothing, Halloween costumes, and such that I'd made on it for him. This meant a lot to him.

Craft supplies should be evaluated and used or given away. Often, after-school programs, Girl Scouts, daycare centers, etc. can use them. It feels good to give these things away when you are able to share a story about them.

By Jennifer from Gilbertsville, NY