Do you ever h
ang on to some bit of memorabilia because "the kids might want this"? Do you hang on to clothes that don't fit because "this might fit cousin Jean"? With the holidays coming up, here's a suggestion for a fun activity to add to your holiday traditions, while getting rid of some of those things that no longer work in YOUR house. Since the holidays are when we're most likely to see our relatives, take advantage of those opportunities to clear out some of those things you've been saving "in case the kids want them someday".
If you have old school projects, favorite toys, or childhood clothing, pass them out at the holidays and have each person tell a story about their items. Others may chime in with how THEY remembered that story. Take photos of everyone reminiscing, and have them pose with their favorite items. Having the actual items may inspire your children to tell their childhood stories to their own children, and may create a wonderful warm connection if the grandkids want to keep Mom or Dad's old scouting badge or trophy.
At the end of the day, offer the items for them to take home for their own memory chests. Even if they don't want them, you now have some fun stories, a photo of the treasure being cherished again, and permission to donate it to someone who will use it now.
Start a list today of the furniture, clothing, photos, and memorabilia that you think your children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, nephews and nieces may want. Then prepare a little "walking tour" of those items over the upcoming holidays, and record their responses.
- They may be thrilled to take some of these things home with them right away.
- You could wrap some of them up for Christmas giving.
- Or they may say that they don't ever expect to take them! Wouldn't it be better to KNOW?
If you have things you're planning to pass on, try putting them in one room so they will be easy to show your family. Tell everyone in advance about this fun new activity, and encourage them to bring their van (or pick-up truck) on Thanksgiving Day so they can take things home with them.
At least start the conversation with them and let them see the things you've been saving for them. You may find that they don't ever expect to want that set of china you've been saving for the hope chest, and that will free YOU to donate or sell it and make more room for you.
A little planning by starting this list now (and adding to it each week until Christmas or Hannukah) can make for a much more interesting holiday weekend, and a much less cluttered house by the New Year!
