I wrote a book about this after cleaning out my parents home. They were raised in the great depression, came of age in the 50s when consuming was the American thing to do & retired in the age of the big box store. Facing this task is really difficult.
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We cleaned out my 94 yr old MIL's house on Long Island where she had lived for 50 years. The closets were an archaeological dig, with well-defined layers clearly indicating eras. It was both fascinating and overwhelming.
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It’s sad that we no longer value heirlooms, but I completely understand. My 92 year old mother still lives in her 5BR home with most of the stuff she and my dad purchased. 2 of my siblings are deceased and the other 3 are nearing retirement.
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I have a set of hand loomed linen sheets that were a wedding gift for my parents. In 1939. And hand woven wool blankets. Silver set. Delicate goblets. They were poor (farmers) in terms of income but those things helped my mother feel not so destitute.
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I think that was the purpose in our parents’ acquisitions. These belonging are high quality; unlike the the mass produced, disposable junk that’s sold now. I can’t remember the last time I attended a wedding where a china pattern was selected

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And I was so unromantic I didnt pick out that stuff. One day when I live alone again maybe I'll get out some of these things and enjoy them.
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Yes, enjoy the finer things. Life is short and we can’t take the money with us
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Just use the fancy dishes for God sake
everyday be #fancyThanks. Twitter will use this to make your timeline better. UndoUndo
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Give it to someone who will appreciate it. Be happy in your new home. Enjoy your Golden years. Some of us would give the world to have loving parents around.
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My parents are practically hoaders (at least in their basement). My mom thought shopping was her job. It will take a major effort to get rid of all their junk. I try to take some stuff every time I visit, and it goes to charity.
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That was one of the hardest part of losing my parents. The Lladro figurines, the 6 sets of golf clubs, the mini soaps and toiletries from 15 years of cruises and hotels. It took me a month to empty their FL townhouse

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My parents have a haul of junk similar to your soaps and toiletries. Theirs is from trips to Atlantic City
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Or is it children who don't want aging parents...but will gladly take their stuff???
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I’m the in between generation. We downsized & pared down our stuff. Our kids are in small apartments. My parents own so much (Mom has 4 or 5 sets of dishes); whether we want it or not, there’s little room. We’ll find good homes for most & keep special things.
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A glimpse into my future too.
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Folks you really can't take it with you.
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Oops! Could that be me?
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