Celebrate your mother!

Hello All!


In honor of Mother’s Day, let’s focus on what to do with the jewelry, furniture, clothing, china or other items that you inherited or received from your mom. While it is impractical to keep all “her stuff”, it can be emotional to part with her belongings. You may feel like you are being disrespectful by discarding her beloved stuff. 


Here are some practical ways to weave your mom’s possessions into your life without them taking over your home, reflecting your style and honoring your mom.

Collections

If she collected a specific item, select one item from the collection that you like and brings up good memories. My mother collected blue Royal Copenhagen plates. Over the years, she collected dozens and dozens of these plates. When my sisters and I divided up her collection, I took one plate that I admired as a child, Mors Dag 1971. This plate spoke to me-it was a little quirky and showed a mother with one child (even though I had three older sisters). I liked their clothing (very different than how my mom and I dressed in the 1970's). This plate sits on a table in my den. Looking at this plate makes my smile and reminds me of my mom. No need to keep an entire collection to honor your mother. 

Likeability

When curating your mom's belongings, ask yourself-Do I like this item? Does it bring me joy? If you respond No, then sell, donate or giveaway. Even though the item belonged to your mom, do not feel like you must keep it. Same organizing principle applies to your mom's stuff as to your own items. Remember someone would love your mother's vintage brooches! 

Usability

Ask yourself-Is this item something I can use? Do you host formal dinner parties complete with china, silver and crystal? If you have a more casual entertaining style, then you should sell, donate or giveaway your mom’s china set or silver flatware. Someone else can use the dishes as designed instead of tucked away in a box in your basement. I saved a few crystal glasses from my mom's home. My mom's Waterford glasses are stored in my kitchen cabinet and used on a weekly basis to serve orange juice, wine or water. Each time, I use her glasses, I think of her. Do not burden yourself with items that you do not use. Your mother would not want to burden you with “her stuff.”

As you reflect and celebrate your mom this weekend, think about how you can honor her by 
keeping a few meaningful items in your home and letting go of the rest. Cherish the items that remind you of her and bring up good memories. Make your mom proud! 


Happy Saturday and Happy Organizing!


Best Regards, 

Laura