I'm not sure why this idea suddenly hit me, but I've become a little obsessive in reading Zen books, Minimalist blogs and websites to do with decluttering. I have a need to streamline, simplify and get rid of detritus, both physical items and, dare I say it, people. I just want to have things around me that I love and use. And nothing else.
It started off well, but then I came to the minimalist's dilemma over sentimental items and clothes. Most common tip I've come across is that if you haven't worn it/used it in over a year, it's time to recyle, donate or bin it. Oh, the agony! Will I , won't I? That's a tough one for me.
I'm still decluttering and sorting, but it made me ponder, what would I never get rid of? A quick scan around the house revealed, some surprising items that I wouldn't mind not seeing again. And some very inconspicuous items that I will hold on to forever.
Books...
and more books! I've already carted boxes of them down to our recycling centre for others to hopefully enjoy, but there are some that I just can't part with.
A picture that my mom took with her when she immigrated from Ireland. It's been around the world more times than I can remember and it's very dear to me.
Are you old enough to know what these are? Tiny, ancient, fragile spools of film, documenting my childhood. I can't express how precious these are to me. Irreplaceable.
A fabulous, quite old, Japanese doll that my dad bought for me. Poor thing is missing one of her batons!
Mr. Malone. The one childhood toy I still have. Grubby, elderly and just wonderful.
What items will you never, ever part with? I'd love to hear!
Have to go now, there's a pile of stuff waiting to be sorted through!
~Siobhan xox