I personally would wear that necklace and ask my daughters which one of them loved it and they could wear it on special occasions or you could all rotate wearing it or you could just give it to a daughter now while you're still alive and watch her wear it. You might find out that none of them even want it which would be really hard to hear but it's part of the journey 😊💙💚💜
I have been decluttering for sone time now and have found it becomes easier like you say, to decide on non sentimental items. As far as sentimental items, I have learned to take a step back and say what value and joy is this giving, in a box or bin packed away? I instead only keep what I can use and designate one bin for sentimental stuff. I use antique jars, bowls, pots and pans, canisters, candy dishes etc around the house daily. I use some of them to store hair accessories, snacks, drink mixes, flour and sugar, makeup or nail polish. I also use the sentimental dishes even if fragile. I went thru my closet and realized I had so many beautiful blouses I would only wear to dinner, or a party. They would eventually be out of style if I only wore them a few times a year. I now wear the nice clothes at home....and enjoy looking nicer, everyday. My adult children are from the generation that doesn't want sentimental nicnacs, antiques etc, so most of those items I sold or gave to close friends who loved them. I did the swedish death cleaning and it is so freeing. Now when I am gone, they wont have to sort thru tons of stuff. Easy peasy. Thank you for this video and ur insight ❤ on this subject. I will be watching to see when ur 3 paintings find a home on your wall again, or if you decide later to pass them on. 💕
Hi Wendy!! I loved hearing how you handle your sentimental treasures and pretty things!! So wise!! It must feel so good to have it all decluttered and set up!! 🌸💐🌸
My mom is going through her parents' belongings and it did take her quite a long time in order to feel up to the task emotionally. Most of the things are actually not items that any of us (her kids) want. When my husband's grandma passed away and her daughter was cleaning out the house, she was very open to giving all the things away to whomever wanted them. I commented on that, and she said that she didn't have the space in her house to assimilate a whole household's worth of belongings, and she wanted others to enjoy things also. I really appreciated that. We were able to get a mirror that my husband had remembered from early childhood, and that was special to him to have that.
My grandparents on Dad's side were great at the inventory concept. They moved to Colorado when they came back stateside from 20 or 30 years in South and Central America. Probably 5 or so years before they moved back to Indiana we had a big Christmas gathering at their house. Grandmother had inventoried everything, and each of the kids got a copy to mark what they wanted. After she got them all back, she went through, and stuff that multiple kids wanted she figured out what would be fair, then put stickers on the bottoms of small items ot noted the list with th h who got what. When they moved cross country and downsized, They had worked out the floorplan, and anything not going in the house, kids had been notified and requested to arrange transport of their items. When they downsized from there, same thing. There were 2 things that everyone wanted. Grandmothers little black book of recipes, and a Christmas Tree weaving they had used since they were in Columbia at Christmas time. That tree had been in the living room the day Grandmother passed, and was gone the next morning. We never did find out what Grandad did with it, or if one of her friends had been told to get it out of the apartment. She had typed the recipes and there was a printed copy in the desk organizer on her desk. Book was gone. Of course they found the electronic copy and distributed it to all of the family members. Lol. I am hoping to divide much if the sentimental stuff as the kids move out and set up house. Use it now, tomorrow might not happen.
Mom got all us daughters together and we chose among her sentimental items. Mom went oldest to youngest. She made it clear which ones she would keep until her death and which ones we could take immediately. I chose an item that she mentioned later that she always wished she had resized so she could wear it. I sent it back with the money to resize it. After she died all us daughters got together to go through her belongings including her jewelry box and I just reminded everyone that item was from my previous pick and there was no issue. When we found the Will she had put a sheet of paper with it reminding us of who picked what. That was a good idea even though we ended up not needing it.
I’ve got just the one Jug left, plus 1 tablespoon that was my mothers, the jug is chipped, I never use it, I don’t particularly like it but the fact it holds memories of it sitting on the table full of milk means I hold onto it, the tablespoon is in my cutlery ( I believe the US calls it flatware?) If I need a tablespoon of oil, water whatever that gets pulled out. She died way back in 1979. She didn’t hold onto anything that wasn’t used, she had clear outs on a very regular basis. I’m thankful she did that because it meant myself, sisters and brother had very little to go through. Photos, now that’s a different matter..😊 The China you have is so beautiful and delicate. The paintings are also beautiful. Wonderful,thoughtful video. As always much love and light to you.🥰🥰xx
Your mother inspires me! I want my kids to be able to say that of me that they didn't have much to "go through". ♥️ Much love and light to you as well, my dear friend! 💐💝
Just lost my mother in law on June 17th unexpectedly and going through her things with her children has been super hard for them but even for myself. Especially when an item has a certain memory attached to it. We have kept so far more than we are getting rid of but I’m sure in time we might get rid of more. Right now it’s just too hard. Thanks for sharing I am going to save this for a future date and watch it again when I think we might be ready to go through and declutter more. 😊❤️👏🏽
Brittany, I am so sorry to hear about your dear mother-in-law. 💞 I think at the beginning keeping more is wise because sometimes we are so deep in grief we don't care about the *stuff* and I know many people who just wanted it out of their sight and had regrets later. Time sure does help us to have time to think and ponder and be more intentional with what we keep. 💐💝
You'll have to be buried in the necklace, to save arguments if more than one of your kids wants it. I am almost finished going through my mum's things. I gave my neighbour all her books yesterday. I have a shelf full of things to give to my niece and nephew if they want them (he is more likely to take things than her). I need to go through my own things again soon to make sure all the pointless stuff is taken away. I feel like I have been standing still since my mum died in 2020... I need to start "moving" again (start living!) hugs to you.
I so understand, Em! My mom died in Dec of 2020. She and I were very close! I pray God helps you to start living and moving again! BIG HUGS TO YOU!! 💝 (P.S. I actually kind of wanted my dad to be buried with his guitar at the time! )
I couldn’t help but feel so sad watching this. I lost my sister less then a year ago and my sweet mom of 90, has dementia. My heartstrings were playing such sad songs. You had some beautiful and kind advice Karen but I realized I am not ready to open those treasured boxes my sister has left me. Hopefully some day soon. ♥️♥️ Until next time 💕💕
I know just how that feels Regina! ❤️🩹 There is no rush!! I couldn’t open my mom’s box either and I was suppose to let my kids choose something from it and I literally hid it so no one would open it! In due time… I’m so sorry… 💐
Those 3 paintings compliment each other and would look great hung together as a trio, perhaps in the dining room. I am putting together a sentimental collage wall in my dining room. I find that when items are grouped together they become purposeful and acutually accentuate the open wall spaces. Thanks for sharing the sentimental stories with us today.
That's a great idea, I hadn't thought of that and I have a pretty big empty wall in the dining room! Thanks for airing, I think I will try that! Honestly the 3 are a timeline of early marriage, then ministry, then adoption from Nicaragua! 💝☀️
I have a Tea Set that my Dad (Who is 92 now) gave to my mother when he was stationed in Japan in the Korean War. I received it when she passed away in 1986
My mum died in 2020 and she had lived with us for 20 years. Changing her room to a new dining room this year felt almost as if I was disrespectful but I know it’s what she wanted me to do. I have some of her ornaments on display in the new dining room and also her mums tea set - it still feels a bit weird but also quite comforting. Still got a few clothing items to donate but I’ll get there. Love your channel ❤️❤️❤️
Oh Barbara, I so understand! I am so glad you did it! I pray over time it gets easier. ♥️ I am so thankful you are enjoying my channel. Have a great weekend, sweet friend!! 💐
Karen, what a beautiful, sweet story of your mom's diamond ❤️. You are so sensitive about dealing with sentimental treasures. 3 years ago, when I started decluttering, I foolishly started there...ARGH! It needs a second pass after 3 years have passed and I have stronger decluttering muscles now. You are doing such a great job, will your home and your channel! Thank you Sister!
Thank you so much for that encouragement, Rachel!! I find everything always needs a second pass...and a third... Each time I realize I need less!! Have a great weekend, sister!! 💝☀️💝
Great video Karen! It is hard to decide what to keep and pass on to others definitely. I like your ideas, and the tips shared in the comments too. Great thoughts on how to divide up items. With my moms things, I was the one elected to clear out so I gathered everything, took pics, sent pics to my sister first because dad had wanted us to have first choice as her daughters over other family members. What she didn’t want or I didn’t want I then sent those pics on to other family members and so on until all that was left was things no one wanted and those items were donated. I kept a handful of items, a large serving bowl and platter, a couple of trinkets I had purchased mom years ago and was able to pass on the rest. My sister and I didn’t have the opportunity to get any of mom’s treasured jewelry because a family member took it. My dad didn’t know anything about it until a couple of days later when he wanted her wedding rings, we discovered the majority of items were missing from her jewelry box. I have learned that family members can be blessings or instruments of pain. I am doing my best to avoid situations where my children might find themselves wanting the same items from my hubby & me. As I am decluttering and downsizing, (Swedish death cleaning), I am taking the time to discuss with each child what is special and why it is to them and then deciding if I am ready to part with it, & who gets the items. If neither child wants it now but I feel it is a family treasure then I keep it for a time and revisit later. I make sure to convey the reason it was “special” so they can decide if it’s special to them. I have found my children become more sentimental as they age, wanting items they previously did not. 😁 Sometimes I have kept the item and sometimes it’s been decluttered. We are all learning in this process. 😊 I do not want my two children to be at odds with each other at any time, much less over some trinket they thought was special to me when it was something that I thought was cute and got at a yard sale. I have also learned that by taking pics of the items it lets the item be separated from the memories and feelings which makes it easier to decide whether it’s a keeper or not. I love the onion analogy. I find I can peel layers back now and more each & every time I revisit an area because I am getting to the actual gems and losing the fluff. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and ideas on this journey. Have a blessed week! ❤️❤️
Hi Cindy! I got behind on things so I am catching up tonight! I am so sorry for what you went through with your mom's things! When my dad passed a neighbor was right over asking for things! It was the strangest experience. But harder for sure when it is family! I love the way you are handling your own things and ensuring that doesn't happen. It inspires me. I am so thankful to be walking through this process with others! I hope you are having a great week, dear friend! 💐♥️
I think this is amazing that you are doing this for your children. It will help so much from preventing any problems among the children knowing that you spoke with them, included them, and made other decisions yourself. This is so helpful.
Thank you for the encouragement, Lisa! I am trying hard to work on "decluttering my health and body"! The good thing about the deeds is that they are paper and don't take up much space! 😉 Have a great weekend, dear friend!! 🌸💝🌸
Hello Karen! I understand sentimental is hard! We are all here for you! There is so much attached to sentimental items! My mom passed away almost 10 years ago and I still have a hard just going into her bedroom. Have a wonderful 4th of July weekend friend!
Hi Karen! This has touched my heart in many ways! For a few years, we have decided to purge our home, our things, so it wouldn’t be a burden to our sons and their families. I was always hard put to part my my grandmother and my moms things I had inherited. I have worked thru, using this system. I took pictures, asked my son and their wives what they would like, if they wanted it now, and we worked thru it. After half a year, they all had decided what they wanted, and we were able to decide what we wanted to keep! I dearly wanted my moms prayer books and my grandma’s bible. Thank you for sharing your treasures too! Have a great weekend my dear friend!
As far as your mom's necklace and your dad's guitar, you can call each one individually and talk about it hart to heart. The one that really wants it, you will have a family gathering meeting and give it to them on front of everyone. But before you do that, you tell them thst you have spoken with each one individually and discussed with your husband to see who will get those items. In the event thst they are not really attached to it or them, then you can have either an auction and the proceeds you will divide evenly or put it towards something that in the long run they will all benefit from them. Some of the items you showed could be very valuable and could be worth a fortune in some cases.
Thank you for sharing that, Gina! Wise words!! I had forgotten for the video but my husband also has antique short wave radios from his dad. I love the advice of auction for thing no one wants. For our home and property, our decision is to have it sold and the proceeds divided. Thanks for spending your time with me!! 💐💝
First of all, I loved all the artwork and can't wait to see it hung up in your home. You probably have other beautiful jewelry you have collected through the years maybe each girl can choose a piece to be given now, later or when you are gone,
Karen You are so strong to be able to go through your Mother's china and make decisions. I know that was tough to do. It looks like you have 7 cups with matching saucers so how sweet it would be for each of your 7 children to have one cup and saucer as a keepsake that maybe they all have coffee or tea together just the 7 of them once a year on a special date to bring them back together for sibling time. Each could display their own cup and saucer or one sibling could keep and display all cups and saucers and be in charge of the get together. Every family has that one member who enjoys doing these things. If each has their own and they are all not able to get together they could join virtually and still be together. Just a sentimental thought as I remember how you shared the story of the first going off to college and those at home felt lost without him. This would be a nice way to connect each year just the 7 of them, making it their special time. What if anyone who plays guitar, shares the guitar and girls throughout the generations share the necklace? Each one who plays guitar can play the guitar at family gatherings for all to hear and enjoy. Each girl can wear the necklace at their wedding, and other special occasions thereafter, then any granddaughters can continue the tradition? The purple china could be used for sibling get together dinners and/or used daily by anyone who wants to.
Awwh Karen!! I've just watched this and I'm loving those tea sets! It's nice to see and hear all of those things that mean so much to u! X ❤ P.S: Don't talk like that............ about being gone........... 🙁😢
I know...it's weird to think about too. I think I talk about being "gone" without the true reality of it! I more think when I am older I don't want to do deal with all this STUFF!! Have a great week, friend!! 💝🌷💝
My mom has been gone almost 24 years but I have her pictures and some other things, AND, the most important thing is I got married with her wedding ring. No matter how many rings my hubby buys me, that ring will never leave my finger. 😀💞😀💞😀
My idea after experiencing loss at various times is store them or as much as I can for a period of time. This helps greatly in terms of regrets later. I love the idea of the necklace. Because you can bring it out at anytime. The guitar if used, should be protected. If you don't care about the sound you could just hang it on a wall as decor. If you want to display and use it, they have display cases that hang on the wall and the fronts open to have access to the item. If hubby is handy he could make one. I would suggest plexiglass rather than glass for the door because of the weight.
I'm on the same journey as you. But I only 1 child & I am finished with my great grandparents on both sides, my husband's side too. It's crazy why do I have old deeds to places from 1901, it was dropped on our lap 5yrs ago bc no one wanted it & I didn't want to toss it. But I'm asking 1st cousins too. Since they r doing family trees. Karen your looking awesome.
The good thing about deeds is that they are paper and don't take up much room! 🙃 Thanks so much for the encouragement! I am trying hard to "declutter my health and body!" Have a great weekend, dear friend! 🌷🌸🌸🌷
My dad has a golden cross necklace that I feel its part of him and my brothers dont treasure it that much. Im sure it would be special for me to have it when he passes and not so important for my brothers(maybe for my brother is more significant to have one of his tools because they learned to fix cars from him). Maybe the same could happen with the diamond necklace, maybe one of your kids feels that way. Thanks again for the video. 🥰
That’s funny! My mom used paper towels for wrapping glass and cups and saucers. I have a stash of tea cups and saucers and I have 5 granddaughters from my only daughter. I though I would put little greenery and flowers in each cup and gift them to my granddaughters. They knew their great grandmother when they were little. This will be something to remember her by. Great video.👍🥰💜
Hi Karen! The onion layer, yes, towards the end of the layers is the most exhausting! I also like the minimal look. I just figure I will have everything through out the house minimal. Then accept I will have a certain amount of chosen things( that I don't want on display) mostly my childrens memories, stored away in tight bins, in a closet or my apartment locker. Memories make me happy, but also sad! I miss those years! I figure, out of sight out of mind. Also with photos. When I start going blind I will give them to my children Lol! A few stored bins should not hurt. I don't want to spend too many more years on this project, I am near the center. I would like to focus more on studying the scriptures, and worshiping God! Helping others, and family! The decluttering has to get done! Yes, we want to get as much organized, labeled, consolidated as much as possible, before we cant! That is on my mind too! I have noticed when I ask my children who wants what, usually they do not care. So just maybe for you Karen, it might not be a difficult thing asking your children too? That would be difficult if there is one object and two or more want it! Either each one can have it shared time, or they draw from a hat? If a child is tender hearted, they will see how hard it is for you, and back out, so as to not make you worry. I would have done that as a child. By the way, I think We have the same nail polish! Your red cola T-shirt looked nice on you! I rambled on too much, ooops!🙊 THANKS for your energy and time! Have a joyous week-end!🏖😎
I love your "ramble"! It's like getting a letter! I loved hearing your perspective! This is just another good reason to have short spurts for decluttering so that it doesn't take away from those things more important like spending time with the Lord and serving others! You are right...it is conversations I need to have with my kids! I agree that sentimental items can make me sad too. I have to limit my exposure!! I hope you have a wonderful weekend as well!! 🌼☀️🌼
I have only a treasured thimble and a few photos of my Mother. Of my Dad’s I have a few of his turn of the century toys and a book that he gave me when I was a child. All else was stolen or destroyed years ago. I hope to entrust them but no takers so far.
Dear Jeanne, I am so sorry about the things that were stolen and destroyed...so hard... I pray God shows you the right person to hand your treasures too. For the ones not interested, perhaps focusing on sharing the stories so they know where they come from is your legacy to them. ♥️♥️
Really enjoyed hearing your precious memories. I do not have any one to pass my belongings to. I have got rid of a lot. I am starting to do a challenge. Not sure what it is called. 1st throw away 1 thing 2nd day 2 things etc.. My husband Ken is going to try it too. We'll see. LOL thanks for helping me understand how to deal with things. Take care. Jesus loves us.
Hi Sherry! I pray you are able to accomplish your decluttering goals!! I did that same challenge through Feb. of 2021. It was a challenge but it was what really go me going on decluttering! I'm so thankful Jesus loves us! ♥️🌸🌸♥️
I have my special items listed in my will as to who is getting which things. It has taken a load off of my mind. In the meantime, I am still enjoying these things and hope to for some time!!
There is no easy answer to your last question. My parents are still alive so I have nothing so special yet. I don´t know what to. I don´t know if our kids may have such a strong connection to our sentimental treasures from our parents. Have a nice weekend! 💕🌺💕
I made the mistake of starting my decluttering with extremely sentimental/emotional and triggering items. It stunted my progress. It would have been much better to start with my sock drawer and kitchen counters.
I only have one living son. I’ve designated that my fine heirloom jewelry go to his first female child. With divorce rates what they are, I won’t chance it going to my daughter-in-law. I’m not close to her, and she has her own family heirlooms.
I personally would wear that necklace and ask my daughters which one of them loved it and they could wear it on special occasions or you could all rotate wearing it or you could just give it to a daughter now while you're still alive and watch her wear it. You might find out that none of them even want it which would be really hard to hear but it's part of the journey 😊💙💚💜
Thats a really great idea, alli!! Thanks so much for sharing!! 💐♥️
I have been decluttering for sone time now and have found it becomes easier like you say, to decide on non sentimental items. As far as sentimental items, I have learned to take a step back and say what value and joy is this giving, in a box or bin packed away? I instead only keep what I can use and designate one bin for sentimental stuff. I use antique jars, bowls, pots and pans, canisters, candy dishes etc around the house daily. I use some of them to store hair accessories, snacks, drink mixes, flour and sugar, makeup or nail polish. I also use the sentimental dishes even if fragile. I went thru my closet and realized I had so many beautiful blouses I would only wear to dinner, or a party. They would eventually be out of style if I only wore them a few times a year. I now wear the nice clothes at home....and enjoy looking nicer, everyday. My adult children are from the generation that doesn't want sentimental nicnacs, antiques etc, so most of those items I sold or gave to close friends who loved them. I did the swedish death cleaning and it is so freeing. Now when I am gone, they wont have to sort thru tons of stuff. Easy peasy. Thank you for this video and ur insight ❤ on this subject. I will be watching to see when ur 3 paintings find a home on your wall again, or if you decide later to pass them on. 💕
Hi Wendy!! I loved hearing how you handle your sentimental treasures and pretty things!! So wise!! It must feel so good to have it all decluttered and set up!! 🌸💐🌸
My mom is going through her parents' belongings and it did take her quite a long time in order to feel up to the task emotionally. Most of the things are actually not items that any of us (her kids) want.
When my husband's grandma passed away and her daughter was cleaning out the house, she was very open to giving all the things away to whomever wanted them. I commented on that, and she said that she didn't have the space in her house to assimilate a whole household's worth of belongings, and she wanted others to enjoy things also. I really appreciated that. We were able to get a mirror that my husband had remembered from early childhood, and that was special to him to have that.
Thank you so much for sharing, Tammy!! I love hearing how others have passed things along! ♥️🌷♥️
My grandparents on Dad's side were great at the inventory concept. They moved to Colorado when they came back stateside from 20 or 30 years in South and Central America. Probably 5 or so years before they moved back to Indiana we had a big Christmas gathering at their house. Grandmother had inventoried everything, and each of the kids got a copy to mark what they wanted. After she got them all back, she went through, and stuff that multiple kids wanted she figured out what would be fair, then put stickers on the bottoms of small items ot noted the list with th h who got what. When they moved cross country and downsized, They had worked out the floorplan, and anything not going in the house, kids had been notified and requested to arrange transport of their items. When they downsized from there, same thing. There were 2 things that everyone wanted. Grandmothers little black book of recipes, and a Christmas Tree weaving they had used since they were in Columbia at Christmas time. That tree had been in the living room the day Grandmother passed, and was gone the next morning. We never did find out what Grandad did with it, or if one of her friends had been told to get it out of the apartment. She had typed the recipes and there was a printed copy in the desk organizer on her desk. Book was gone. Of course they found the electronic copy and distributed it to all of the family members. Lol. I am hoping to divide much if the sentimental stuff as the kids move out and set up house. Use it now, tomorrow might not happen.
Love that! Thanks for sharing; it's so inspiring!! 💐♥️
Mom got all us daughters together and we chose among her sentimental items. Mom went oldest to youngest. She made it clear which ones she would keep until her death and which ones we could take immediately. I chose an item that she mentioned later that she always wished she had resized so she could wear it. I sent it back with the money to resize it. After she died all us daughters got together to go through her belongings including her jewelry box and I just reminded everyone that item was from my previous pick and there was no issue. When we found the Will she had put a sheet of paper with it reminding us of who picked what. That was a good idea even though we ended up not needing it.
Your mother was very wise, Elizabeth!! Thanks so much for sharing what she did. She is an inspiration!! ♥️♥️
I’ve got just the one Jug left, plus 1 tablespoon that was my mothers, the jug is chipped, I never use it, I don’t particularly like it but the fact it holds memories of it sitting on the table full of milk means I hold onto it, the tablespoon is in my cutlery ( I believe the US calls it flatware?) If I need a tablespoon of oil, water whatever that gets pulled out. She died way back in 1979. She didn’t hold onto anything that wasn’t used, she had clear outs on a very regular basis. I’m thankful she did that because it meant myself, sisters and brother had very little to go through. Photos, now that’s a different matter..😊
The China you have is so beautiful and delicate. The paintings are also beautiful. Wonderful,thoughtful video. As always much love and light to you.🥰🥰xx
Your mother inspires me! I want my kids to be able to say that of me that they didn't have much to "go through". ♥️ Much love and light to you as well, my dear friend! 💐💝
Just lost my mother in law on June 17th unexpectedly and going through her things with her children has been super hard for them but even for myself. Especially when an item has a certain memory attached to it. We have kept so far more than we are getting rid of but I’m sure in time we might get rid of more. Right now it’s just too hard. Thanks for sharing I am going to save this for a future date and watch it again when I think we might be ready to go through and declutter more. 😊❤️👏🏽
Brittany, I am so sorry to hear about your dear mother-in-law. 💞 I think at the beginning keeping more is wise because sometimes we are so deep in grief we don't care about the *stuff* and I know many people who just wanted it out of their sight and had regrets later. Time sure does help us to have time to think and ponder and be more intentional with what we keep. 💐💝
You'll have to be buried in the necklace, to save arguments if more than one of your kids wants it. I am almost finished going through my mum's things. I gave my neighbour all her books yesterday. I have a shelf full of things to give to my niece and nephew if they want them (he is more likely to take things than her). I need to go through my own things again soon to make sure all the pointless stuff is taken away. I feel like I have been standing still since my mum died in 2020... I need to start "moving" again (start living!) hugs to you.
I so understand, Em! My mom died in Dec of 2020. She and I were very close! I pray God helps you to start living and moving again! BIG HUGS TO YOU!! 💝 (P.S. I actually kind of wanted my dad to be buried with his guitar at the time! )
I couldn’t help but feel so sad watching this. I lost my sister less then a year ago and my sweet mom of 90, has dementia. My heartstrings were playing such sad songs.
You had some beautiful and kind advice Karen but I realized I am not ready to open those treasured boxes my sister has left me.
Hopefully some day soon. ♥️♥️
Until next time 💕💕
I know just how that feels Regina! ❤️🩹 There is no rush!! I couldn’t open my mom’s box either and I was suppose to let my kids choose something from it and I literally hid it so no one would open it! In due time… I’m so sorry… 💐
Those 3 paintings compliment each other and would look great hung together as a trio, perhaps in the dining room. I am putting together a sentimental collage wall in my dining room. I find that when items are grouped together they become purposeful and acutually accentuate the open wall spaces. Thanks for sharing the sentimental stories with us today.
That's a great idea, I hadn't thought of that and I have a pretty big empty wall in the dining room! Thanks for airing, I think I will try that! Honestly the 3 are a timeline of early marriage, then ministry, then adoption from Nicaragua! 💝☀️
I have a Tea Set that my Dad (Who is 92 now) gave to my mother when he was stationed in Japan in the Korean War. I received it when she passed away in 1986
Oh that is so sweet!! I bet it is beautiful! Thanks for spending time with me, Karen! 🌷🌷🌷
My mum died in 2020 and she had lived with us for 20 years. Changing her room to a new dining room this year felt almost as if I was disrespectful but I know it’s what she wanted me to do. I have some of her ornaments on display in the new dining room and also her mums tea set - it still feels a bit weird but also quite comforting. Still got a few clothing items to donate but I’ll get there. Love your channel ❤️❤️❤️
Oh Barbara, I so understand! I am so glad you did it! I pray over time it gets easier. ♥️ I am so thankful you are enjoying my channel. Have a great weekend, sweet friend!! 💐
Difficult topic! Thank you Karen for dealing with it gently. Very helpful. The cups and plates are so beautiful to look at. Greetings from Germany.
Thank you for your encouragement, Irene!! 💐💝
Karen, what a beautiful, sweet story of your mom's diamond ❤️. You are so sensitive about dealing with sentimental treasures. 3 years ago, when I started decluttering, I foolishly started there...ARGH! It needs a second pass after 3 years have passed and I have stronger decluttering muscles now. You are doing such a great job, will your home and your channel! Thank you Sister!
Thank you so much for that encouragement, Rachel!! I find everything always needs a second pass...and a third... Each time I realize I need less!! Have a great weekend, sister!! 💝☀️💝
Great video Karen! It is hard to decide what to keep and pass on to others definitely. I like your ideas, and the tips shared in the comments too. Great thoughts on how to divide up items. With my moms things, I was the one elected to clear out so I gathered everything, took pics, sent pics to my sister first because dad had wanted us to have first choice as her daughters over other family members. What she didn’t want or I didn’t want I then sent those pics on to other family members and so on until all that was left was things no one wanted and those items were donated. I kept a handful of items, a large serving bowl and platter, a couple of trinkets I had purchased mom years ago and was able to pass on the rest. My sister and I didn’t have the opportunity to get any of mom’s treasured jewelry because a family member took it. My dad didn’t know anything about it until a couple of days later when he wanted her wedding rings, we discovered the majority of items were missing from her jewelry box. I have learned that family members can be blessings or instruments of pain. I am doing my best to avoid situations where my children might find themselves wanting the same items from my hubby & me. As I am decluttering and downsizing, (Swedish death cleaning), I am taking the time to discuss with each child what is special and why it is to them and then deciding if I am ready to part with it, & who gets the items. If neither child wants it now but I feel it is a family treasure then I keep it for a time and revisit later. I make sure to convey the reason it was “special” so they can decide if it’s special to them. I have found my children become more sentimental as they age, wanting items they previously did not. 😁 Sometimes I have kept the item and sometimes it’s been decluttered. We are all learning in this process. 😊 I do not want my two children to be at odds with each other at any time, much less over some trinket they thought was special to me when it was something that I thought was cute and got at a yard sale. I have also learned that by taking pics of the items it lets the item be separated from the memories and feelings which makes it easier to decide whether it’s a keeper or not. I love the onion analogy. I find I can peel layers back now and more each & every time I revisit an area because I am getting to the actual gems and losing the fluff. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and ideas on this journey. Have a blessed week! ❤️❤️
Hi Cindy! I got behind on things so I am catching up tonight! I am so sorry for what you went through with your mom's things! When my dad passed a neighbor was right over asking for things! It was the strangest experience. But harder for sure when it is family! I love the way you are handling your own things and ensuring that doesn't happen. It inspires me. I am so thankful to be walking through this process with others! I hope you are having a great week, dear friend! 💐♥️
I think this is amazing that you are doing this for your children. It will help so much from preventing any problems among the children knowing that you spoke with them, included them, and made other decisions yourself. This is so helpful.
Thanks so much, Cheryl! I appreciate that encouragement!! Have a great weekend my friend!! 💐♥️
Thank you for the encouragement, Lisa! I am trying hard to work on "decluttering my health and body"! The good thing about the deeds is that they are paper and don't take up much space! 😉 Have a great weekend, dear friend!! 🌸💝🌸
Hello Karen! I understand sentimental is hard! We are all here for you! There is so much attached to sentimental items! My mom passed away almost 10 years ago and I still have a hard just going into her bedroom. Have a wonderful 4th of July weekend friend!
Happy 4th , Lisa! I hope you have an awesome day! 💐☀️
@@ThisMainerMom thank you!
Hi Karen! This has touched my heart in many ways! For a few years, we have decided to purge our home, our things, so it wouldn’t be a burden to our sons and their families. I was always hard put to part my my grandmother and my moms things I had inherited. I have worked thru, using this system. I took pictures, asked my son and their wives what they would like, if they wanted it now, and we worked thru it. After half a year, they all had decided what they wanted, and we were able to decide what we wanted to keep! I dearly wanted my moms prayer books and my grandma’s bible. Thank you for sharing your treasures too! Have a great weekend my dear friend!
I love how you dealt with your sentimental treasures! Thanks so much for sharing! I love what you kept, the treasure among treasures!! ♥️♥️♥️
As far as your mom's necklace and your dad's guitar, you can call each one individually and talk about it hart to heart. The one that really wants it, you will have a family gathering meeting and give it to them on front of everyone. But before you do that, you tell them thst you have spoken with each one individually and discussed with your husband to see who will get those items. In the event thst they are not really attached to it or them, then you can have either an auction and the proceeds you will divide evenly or put it towards something that in the long run they will all benefit from them. Some of the items you showed could be very valuable and could be worth a fortune in some cases.
Thank you for sharing that, Gina! Wise words!! I had forgotten for the video but my husband also has antique short wave radios from his dad. I love the advice of auction for thing no one wants. For our home and property, our decision is to have it sold and the proceeds divided. Thanks for spending your time with me!! 💐💝
First of all, I loved all the artwork and can't wait to see it hung up in your home. You probably have other beautiful jewelry you have collected through the years maybe each girl can choose a piece to be given now, later or when you are gone,
Thanks so much, Sharon, for your encouragement and input! I appreciate you!! 🌸🌸🌸
Karen
You are so strong to be able to go through your Mother's china and make decisions. I know that was tough to do.
It looks like you have 7 cups with matching saucers so how sweet it would be for each of your 7 children to have one cup and saucer as a keepsake that maybe they all have coffee or tea together just the 7 of them once a year on a special date to bring them back together for sibling time. Each could display their own cup and saucer or one sibling could keep and display all cups and saucers and be in charge of the get together. Every family has that one member who enjoys doing these things. If each has their own and they are all not able to get together they could join virtually and still be together. Just a sentimental thought as I remember how you shared the story of the first going off to college and those at home felt lost without him. This would be a nice way to connect each year just the 7 of them, making it their special time.
What if anyone who plays guitar, shares the guitar and girls throughout the generations share the necklace? Each one who plays guitar can play the guitar at family gatherings for all to hear and enjoy. Each girl can wear the necklace at their wedding, and other special occasions thereafter, then any granddaughters can continue the tradition?
The purple china could be used for sibling get together dinners and/or used daily by anyone who wants to.
I love these ideas so much!! Thanks so much for sharing them!! I appreciate you! 💝💐💝
Awwh Karen!! I've just watched this and I'm loving those tea sets! It's nice to see and hear all of those things that mean so much to u! X ❤ P.S: Don't talk like that............ about being gone........... 🙁😢
I know...it's weird to think about too. I think I talk about being "gone" without the true reality of it! I more think when I am older I don't want to do deal with all this STUFF!! Have a great week, friend!! 💝🌷💝
@@ThisMainerMom I know what u mean, yes! Awh thank u, have a good week! Xx 🌼🌸🌻🌹
My mom has been gone almost 24 years but I have her pictures and some other things, AND, the most important thing is I got married with her wedding ring. No matter how many rings my hubby buys me, that ring will never leave my finger. 😀💞😀💞😀
Oh I love that, Sandra!! There is something about a piece of jewelry from a loved one that is extra special!! 💐💝
My idea after experiencing loss at various times is store them or as much as I can for a period of time. This helps greatly in terms of regrets later. I love the idea of the necklace. Because you can bring it out at anytime. The guitar if used, should be protected. If you don't care about the sound you could just hang it on a wall as decor. If you want to display and use it, they have display cases that hang on the wall and the fronts open to have access to the item. If hubby is handy he could make one. I would suggest plexiglass rather than glass for the door because of the weight.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me, Lisa!! I appreciate you!! 💐💝
You did a great job beginning to tackle those sentimental items. Hope you have a great weekend.
Thanks so much, Monique! I hope you have a great weekend as well!! 💐♥️
I'm on the same journey as you. But I only 1 child & I am finished with my great grandparents on both sides, my husband's side too. It's crazy why do I have old deeds to places from 1901, it was dropped on our lap 5yrs ago bc no one wanted it & I didn't want to toss it. But I'm asking 1st cousins too. Since they r doing family trees. Karen your looking awesome.
The good thing about deeds is that they are paper and don't take up much room! 🙃 Thanks so much for the encouragement! I am trying hard to "declutter my health and body!" Have a great weekend, dear friend! 🌷🌸🌸🌷
My dad has a golden cross necklace that I feel its part of him and my brothers dont treasure it that much. Im sure it would be special for me to have it when he passes and not so important for my brothers(maybe for my brother is more significant to have one of his tools because they learned to fix cars from him). Maybe the same could happen with the diamond necklace, maybe one of your kids feels that way. Thanks again for the video. 🥰
True, good point Jenny!! Thanks for sharing...♥️🌷♥️
That’s funny! My mom used paper towels for wrapping glass and cups and saucers. I have a stash of tea cups and saucers and I have 5 granddaughters from my only daughter. I though I would put little greenery and flowers in each cup and gift them to my granddaughters. They knew their great grandmother when they were little. This will be something to remember her by. Great video.👍🥰💜
The paper towels work well and sometimes newspaper feels dirty with the ink! What a great idea for the cups! Thanks for sharing!! 💝🌸
Hi Karen! The onion layer, yes, towards the end of the layers is the most exhausting! I also like the minimal look. I just figure I will have everything through out the house minimal. Then accept I will have a certain amount of chosen things( that I don't want on display) mostly my childrens memories, stored away in tight bins, in a closet or my apartment locker. Memories make me happy, but also sad! I miss those years! I figure, out of sight out of mind. Also with photos. When I start going blind I will give them to my children Lol! A few stored bins should not hurt. I don't want to spend too many more years on this project, I am near the center. I would like to focus more on studying the scriptures, and worshiping God! Helping others, and family! The decluttering has to get done! Yes, we want to get as much organized, labeled, consolidated as much as possible, before we cant! That is on my mind too! I have noticed when I ask my children who wants what, usually they do not care. So just maybe for you Karen, it might not be a difficult thing asking your children too? That would be difficult if there is one object and two or more want it! Either each one can have it shared time, or they draw from a hat? If a child is tender hearted, they will see how hard it is for you, and back out, so as to not make you worry. I would have done that as a child. By the way, I think We have the same nail polish! Your red cola T-shirt looked nice on you! I rambled on too much, ooops!🙊 THANKS for your energy and time! Have a joyous week-end!🏖😎
I love your "ramble"! It's like getting a letter! I loved hearing your perspective! This is just another good reason to have short spurts for decluttering so that it doesn't take away from those things more important like spending time with the Lord and serving others! You are right...it is conversations I need to have with my kids! I agree that sentimental items can make me sad too. I have to limit my exposure!! I hope you have a wonderful weekend as well!! 🌼☀️🌼
@@ThisMainerMom ☺
That pictures would look great in your office
True! Thanks for the idea, Judene! 🌷🌷🌷
Hola Amiga 🌹.
Bendiciones!!🙏🏻👍🙏🏻
¡Hola! ¡Muchas gracias por pasar tiempo conmigo! ¡Te aprecio! 🌹🌹🌹
I have only a treasured thimble and a few photos of my Mother. Of my Dad’s I have a few of his turn of the century toys and a book that he gave me when I was a child. All else was stolen or destroyed years ago. I hope to entrust them but no takers so far.
Dear Jeanne, I am so sorry about the things that were stolen and destroyed...so hard... I pray God shows you the right person to hand your treasures too. For the ones not interested, perhaps focusing on sharing the stories so they know where they come from is your legacy to them. ♥️♥️
You are so right.
Have a great weekend, Michelle!! ♥️🌹♥️
its very hard to let go of special things . one thing at a time. have a nice visit with your son and grands.
Yes one thing at a time! I hope you have a great weekend, Sarah! 💐
@@ThisMainerMom you too enjoy
Really enjoyed hearing your precious memories. I do not have any one to pass my belongings to. I have got rid of a lot. I am starting to do a challenge. Not sure what it is called. 1st throw away 1 thing 2nd day 2 things etc.. My husband Ken is going to try it too. We'll see. LOL thanks for helping me understand how to deal with things. Take care. Jesus loves us.
Hi Sherry! I pray you are able to accomplish your decluttering goals!! I did that same challenge through Feb. of 2021. It was a challenge but it was what really go me going on decluttering! I'm so thankful Jesus loves us! ♥️🌸🌸♥️
I have my special items listed in my will as to who is getting which things. It has taken a load off of my mind. In the meantime, I am still enjoying these things and hope to for some time!!
That's wonderful, Barbara, that you have all your affairs in order and can live in that peace! You inspire me!! 🌸🌷🌸
Great video ☺️
Thank you so much, dear friend!! Have a great weekend!! 🌸💝🌸
There is no easy answer to your last question. My parents are still alive so I have nothing so special yet. I don´t know what to. I don´t know if our kids may have such a strong connection to our sentimental treasures from our parents. Have a nice weekend! 💕🌺💕
Thanks so much for sharing, Joy! Helps me to know I am not alone!! HUGS!! 💝☀️💝
I made the mistake of starting my decluttering with extremely sentimental/emotional and triggering items. It stunted my progress. It would have been much better to start with my sock drawer and kitchen counters.
Oh yes!!! It is definitely easier to start with the socks!! 🙃🥰
I only have one living son. I’ve designated that my fine heirloom jewelry go to his first female child. With divorce rates what they are, I won’t chance it going to my daughter-in-law. I’m not close to her, and she has her own family heirlooms.
It's always good to have a plan!! Thanks for spending your time with me, friend!! 🌸☀️🌼🌸