Does the thought of downsizing and possibly moving to a smaller, more manageable home someday scare you? Me, too. But if you decide to go for it, spring is a good time to get started.
By getting started, I mean prepping your house. Many people, like me, have trouble looking past the overwhelming big picture. If you’ve lived in your house for many years, there is likely a massive accumulation of “stuff.” Deciding where to start decluttering and getting rid of that stuff is the hardest part of the process.
To make matters worse, some of that stuff is not even yours. The children you raised in that house who have since grown up and are now out on their own probably left many of their belongings in your basement or garage, as if it is their personal storage space. I know I’m not alone in this. Attempts to have them retrieve their things often fall on deaf ears.
A good friend and successful real estate broker gave me some great advice. He said to give them ample notice to clear it out – like 30 to 45 days. Let your adult kids know, in a written document they sign, that you expect them to remove their things before (choose your date) as that is the day the rental dumpster is coming. My friend guaranteed they will comply. I have yet to do this and hope I don’t have to.
Then, it’s on to your things. I have read all kinds of books and sites online on organizing and decluttering. But it is easier said than done. Organizing items into three categories – keep, donate and toss – involves a lot of not only physical work but mental resolve, as well. It can be a very emotional task. And taking Marie Kondo’s advice to keep only things that bring you “joy” is also easier said than done. All my things brought me joy at one time or another.
I’m very interested in repurposing. For example, I have more glassware, specifically drinking glasses, than anyone I know. I thought it might be cool to fill them with a variety of candies and chocolates, wrap a pretty holiday ribbon around them and donate or give them as Christmas gifts. It’s a definite possibility!
I tried a garage sale a couple of years ago. That ended up with not only a garage filled with my things on and around folding tables, but also more stuff the kids brought over and wanted me to sell. Then, there were a couple of well-meaning neighbors who decided to take advantage of me being trapped in my hot garage for the weekend and make it their personal cocktail and visiting time.
Yes, I am procrastinating; but in my defense, I have a very old house and much of my stuff is stored on top shelves – what I like to call the nosebleed section. Maybe I could ask my six-foot-plus sons to help me … hmmm, maybe not.
