Estate removalists/liquidators are coming over today to remove the last of all of dad's things, which is a *lot*, both materially and emotionally. They're going to be here for days sorting everything out.
I have feelings, but there are so many I'm still figuring out what they all are.
Dad was a "collector", and it's definitely something I've inherited. I like to hold onto things that might be useful in the future.
On one hand I'm incredibly grateful for that, it's given me an appreciation of natural resources that can be used, of human made items that can be salvaged, and has definitely been a contributing factor in why I've been able to get into repairs and volunteer at the repair cafe.
On the other hand, it requires energy and effort to say goodbye to things, and to not accumulate more. I have half a shelf at home of illustrated bird encyclopaedias, and it took real effort not to try and bring home dad's shelf of similar content. (We have no space for them, and I have books of every bird at home.)
The estate cleaners/liquidators mean that I have to make those hard decisions now, rather than putting them off. I've had more success in one hour this morning than I have had in the rest of the year put together.
@pjf I am a "collector" too and my goal is to consciously start downsizing when I hit 60 to having only minimal stuff footprint for whoever's dealing with my estate after me.
I've even contemplated if I should sell the home and just rent out but that seems like a step too far. Take care and be kind yourself.
Paul Fenwick
deepfryed