No one really prepares you for the emotional part of downsizing your home. There are all types of “how to” books on home organization and getting rid of clutter. But, when you have had something for a long time, its sentimental value grows on you.
My husband and I are moving. We no longer need the large home that we raised our four children in. As I look around my kitchen, knowing that we will be living in a smaller place, I must eliminate and choose wisely, what will make the move. It’s obvious that I no longer need all of the soup bowls, pots and pans, or the four, yes, I counted four, pizza cutters.
Rummaging through more drawers, I’m finding things I have forgotten about that I clearly do not have second thoughts about getting rid of. For example, a large bag of plastic yellow corn holders, does anyone still use those? That’s the easy stuff to toss. However, what about the things that mean something more?
Looking for help, I goggled Marie Kondo.
I’ve never wanted to watch her show because I knew how inferior she would make me feel. After watching one of her YouTube videos on de-cluttering, I just needed to know if she had children. It is not possible I thought, to be that organized, with small children living in your home. Well, apparently, she has two small children and a husband.
How does this sweet, very cute woman stay so organized? Humbly, I took notes.
I’m going to try a few of her suggestions I’ve listed below.
- Keep only items frequently used
- Thank the items you are letting go of
- The Konmari folding method to store shirts and sweaters
- Use clear storage boxes
- Store sentimental items in a pretty box
- Make sure everything you keep sparks joy
The last bullet point is the real key to de-cluttering. I really need to look at the things I’ve kept through the years and see if they are emotionally bringing joy to me. I have accumulated a lot “things” and fortunately, I had the room to do so, but as I’m entering the next chapter of my life, I do not need to bring my entire past along with me.
Our home was a wonderful place to live where several fond memories were created. However, it was a house with a roof that kept us safe and provided living space. As we close the door behind us one last time I will say thank you, (per Marie) knowing that my most cherished family memories come along with me, and will live in my heart forever. Parting with material possessions is easy if you understand that they do not last, as in time they’ll break, or fall apart, but our memories….those should be tightly embraced.
I thank the lovely home that provided a magnificent shelter for my children to grow up in. I’m very blessed as it was inside those walls; there was abundant love and happiness. Now, I look forward to new memories wherever our next address may be.
“Our wealth should be determined by what fills our hearts and not our wallets.”
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