Tripping down memory lane

Sifting through boxes of old photos, Christmas ornaments, letters and nostalgic what nots has brought me to the conclusion that downsizing is not such a bad thing. I find myself making room in my home to be able to bring in more things from my mother-in-law's house. After several months of sorting the drawers, closets, garage and workshop to prepare her house for sale, I am determined not to leave such a task to my children. 

There have been interesting finds that I will keep, if only to enjoy a little while longer before they are relegated to the past tense. One in particular has brought great joy to the whole family. It is a picture of a very flirty young woman and her handsome husband. Both uncharacteristically happy together, captured on film forever, a romantic spark rarely seen between them. She would rather I threw it away. In fact, I found it amongst things she had discarded. When I asked her why, she said it was an ugly picture. Odd, I thought. It is one of the best pictures I have ever seen of my mother and father in law. I am keeping it, if only to remind myself of what it means to "work" at a marriage.

The ornaments were also a wonderful discovery. My husband said he had never heard of the Elf on The Shelf story, and yet, there were 5 dusty and yellowed little guys in the boxes. His mother laughed and told him they were all through the house as he grew up. He either ignored them or never saw them. A funny touching memory to share with the family.

Although I may not be able to keep everything I want and probably more than I should, these fun little moments in time are treasures to enjoy for now. I will mark a box with the family name, so when my children come to sort through my life's gatherings, the task will, at least, be a little more organized. I will include a letter in the box, reminding them that these are truly just things and that the stories they hold are to be remembered and shared for as long as they choose. After all, we can't take it with us and they shouldn't have to clean up after us.

Make a resolution to clear a closet, a drawer or a box this year. You will find that many of the things inside are no longer useful and what is precious should certainly be kept in a safer location. Clearly mark what is in the box you keep or store. Add a personal note, a story or memory as to why you kept it. Be sure to date photos and indicate who is in the photo, relationships, and special occasions. Making life a little easier, the memories a little less painful and the grieving a little more joyous is something we should do for our kids sooner rather than later.