Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
What Do I Do with All Their Things?
After a loved one dies, you might be left with hundreds of possessions, acquired over the course of a lifetime. There may be photos, furniture, clothes, jewelry, and general household items that all need clearing out. The task of sorting through all of this can be daunting and surrounding yourself with the things of a lost loved one can make the grieving process even more difficult.
Keeping it all can become a burden
When my mother passed suddenly, and I had recently lost my brother and father, I needed time to process their estates and to figure out what I was going to do. I was the last family member left, other than my two young children, and I was left to pick up the pieces. I was in no condition to start going through and getting rid of the things they had left behind. So, I moved my things into the house where my parents had lived. I felt I would be betraying them and their love by getting rid of anything.
Over the years all the "stuff" became an overwhelming burden. My house looked like a museum of furniture, dishes, trinkets, artwork, etc. that meant nothing to me other than the connection to my parents and brother. I had told myself that I needed to hold on to most of the stuff because I wanted to pass them on to my kids when they got older. What I didn’t realize at the time was that they did not want or need any of the stuff, and they did not need the burden that I had been carrying all these years either. I had to start the process of clearing out my house no matter how difficult it was. All the stuff was weighing me down and holding me back.
The Process of Downsizing
There are a few of things you may want to consider.
- You may want to get some of the items appraised so that you know exactly what you are dealing with. Please check with your attorney to see if this is required in your state.
- If you have to clear the house or apartment where they were living, you may want to place their items in storage until you are able to sort through everything.
- When you are ready, don’t try to do it alone. It is important that you find someone you can trust to help you go through things. Someone who will help you talk through the reasons you want to keep something and help you determine whether it is time to get rid of it.
- Complete the process one room or section at a time.
We can help...
We can come along side you to help you with this process. Since I have been through this process myself, I understand some of the emotions you may experience. As we go through their things with you, we will complete the process in 2-3 hour segments so that you have the time YOU need to process your emotions and for YOU to make the decisions you feel comfortable with.