Books, pictures, and linens call my name. I just love reading and find an attraction to books. Real books that one can hold and reread. I gave away several thousand books in the last few years. I finally realized they weren’t helping me any longer and they weren’t being checked out so it was time to pass them on while they were in good shape.
My grandmother, mother, and mother-in-law were all crocheters. As a result I love and appreciate the beauty and effort of lovely creations. They tell a story of the history of life and also the nostalgic feelings from my past. Many evenings of watching them create these pieces are etched in my memory.
I too have come to love the hobby, but prefer to crochet toys, ornaments, and blankets. And then because we were all seamstresses, I came naturally to love fabrics, doilies, and linens of all types.
Slowly I am passing them on to those who really appreciate them. I don’t want to see them in a garage sale. Two years ago I went down to an open house sale of a couple that had died. The house which had been a beautiful home for them was in shambles. Piles of beautiful statues and expensive plates were lined up like an old dimestore counter. I thought the lady who was a Domestic Genus was probably turning over in her grave knowing how her beautiful home was a mess.
As I walked into the basement, I could see piles of things were stacked without care. Toys from 50 years ago were dusty, but in their original boxes. Drawers of linens and sets of matching crocheted doilies were pushed into containers. I grabbed a stack to save them, because I knew the lady and valued all her work. I am so glad I did. They were sold at a token of their worth. It broke my heart.
I am by far the furthest person from hoarding. I am forever giving things away, but I also believe in caring for what I have. How about you? Are there people who you want to give things to, but fear they will see it as junk? Now is the time to part with the things you want to share so they go to the people who can enjoy them now.
When I saw the photos of the recent flooding in New Orleans and the devastation of lives and buildings in Italy, I began to think. In Italy, where the areas were centuries old and the homes originally built years ago, there was a loss of property and of course, so many lives. We really need to evaluate. Do you share the things you own? Do you show appreciation more the people in your life?
Liking yourself and loving life sound so easy, but it takes effort to be our best and recognize all the gifts we have been given. May today be a day of self appreciation for all that your do! And thank others around you as well!