Decluttering Sentimental: Do you need to tell the story?

[@dig1272]

At 0:06 Into this video I couldn't believe that I saw the Precious Moments mug and I have the exact same mug! Same color and everything except mine says Diane and I was just looking at my mug yesterday when I was decluttering and I put it up in the cupboard of my kitchen because I could not bring myself to donate it!! For me, I think I'm having trouble because my late mother gave it to me when I was a kid and I'm the youngest and it was something that made me feel special whenever I felt lonely because I was the youngest of 3 children and I didn't have anyone to play with all the time so I spent a lot of time alone..oh my gosh! I'm gonna pack it up with the other stuff that's going out today to the Battered Women Shelter. There is my answer!! 🤣

[@carolstewart1704]

When I had no one to tell, or felt I couldn't, it helped me to write something similar to a journal entry... if I had feelings well up again, I'd write more.. after I wrote and got it all out sometimes I would go back and read it a few times.. and even those pages I was often able to throw away.. they had fulfilled their purpose.. if there were any I couldn't throw yet, at least it was just a few sheets of paper 🥲💕🫂

[@tanjaaufdermaur9468]

You're awesome! Hope you know that ;) ! What hangs me up is. 1. I'm all over the place and going going going and ........ then I'm physically out but my mind keeps spinning and spinning, I'm wired up and I can't really relax. 2. And then there is stuff that has to get out of the house, for friends, sisters, donations and without a car it' s not so fast gone. So I had to slow down and find the fastest way to get the things out. I put things (practically new) on facebook for free and 2 loads got picked up the same day =). Then I still had a lot for donations and the hang up there, it takes me two trips by bus (it's not done after one and probably not done in one day). So I put all things (everything and a lot of dishes) in a cardboard box on the side of the sidewalk, there are 150 affordable apartments here and most people pass my house when they go to the bus stop. And this reduced it to 1 trip to the donation center! I'm accepting that it's slowing down and I do as best as I can. But there still are some successes! =)

[@sabl6381]

I understand the pain over the sudden loss of your grandmother. All four of my grandparents died when I was age 15-17. It was brutal, especially during those already-tough teenage years.

[@leonieharry2941]

I love Dawns videos. She spreads such a good, positive and friendly atmosphere. Lovely regards from Vienna/Austria! :)

[@susanpeterson9947]

I know that it’s time (past time) to let go of a couple of large boxes of my mom’s and her mom’s things. I’m older and have no one left who knew these wonderful women, nor am I comfortable showing deep emotions to others. Watching this video has encouraged me to at least try to spend a day unpacking and looking at these items, and hopefully letting them go. Thank you, Dawn.

[@springrain777]

Just watched again - VERY helpful! Thank you again. Couldn't give it a thumbs up as did years ago when i first watched it😊

[@AmythefirstA]

I probably have unprocessed grief from losing all three of my remaining grandparents in a span of six months. My parents have all their stuff right now, so my main keepsakes from them are cards and notes, and I can't bear to throw those away. Watching your videos on sentimental items has given me a few ideas for organizing and displaying their words to honor and remember them, so thank you for that!

[@lorettavalenta]

Can I just say how much I love your very real conversations on KZbin? I appreciate the honesty, the encouragement, and real help you offer. Thank you for keeping me going through my own minimizing process! 💕

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you Loretta, that means a lot!!

[@leonieharry2941]

Touching and so true! All the best for you and your family, Dawn!

[@roxanes43]

This is so relevant as I'm going through belongings of a loved one that have been boxed for several years. Brilliant idea to have a friend over while going through the stack to help with processing and moving forward. Thanks so much!

[@cindydolezal2980]

After my Mom passed my brother who lived in the house with her kept a folder with each of our names on it with papers, pictures, certificates, awards, cards things like that which my mom had kept for each of us. We all got together and went through the folders together and we said, we will look at these things, tell the story if there is one for each thing, pass them around and then most things we could throw away. Each of us kept a few important things but most of it went in the trash.

[@sflgmn7]

Love your videos and your style! Very thankful that I recently found you! My favorite quote that has already helped a lot: "If it's not a definite yes, it's a no!"

[@LisaMiller]

It's such a good idea to enlist the help of a friend. My story's a little different. I had just gone through a breakup after 15 years of marriage and was devasted, but still had to clean up as his being a hoarder (the real deal) was one of the issues. A friend really wanted to help me in some way so I let her help me tackle a stuffed set of shelves. With many items I said, "Well, maybe he'll want this..." or that, or whatever. She looked me straight in the eye and said, "Why would you care?". After a few times of this, we were both laughing. It really helped at the time and for months afterward.

[@cooking4you747]

Wow Dawn, I finally understand why the idea of taking pictures of sentimental stuff doesn't appeal to me! Thanks for sharing all your insights, love listening to your stories 🙏

[@kristenrezey872]

Crying with you. Six years ago my grandmother passed suddenly as well. I miss her everyday.

[@citygirlfarm]

Dawn, I packed my grandmothers dishes around with me for every move for 30 years or longer. I never used the dishes, I did not even like them, but out of a sense of family or whatever, I kept them. Then one day a couple of years ago when i was purging stuff, there they were {again). Insert heavy sigh here. Then out of the blue it just occurred to me. My grandmother one day, walked into a store and purchased those items. She did not create them. She bought them. Because she liked them. I did not like them. I did not use them. I don't even remember ever having a meal on one of them. I suddenly realized that my grandmother would want me to have the things in my home that I liked. That I would use. In fact she would probably look at me and ask "what are you doing keeping those dishes you do not like and do not use"? I tossed them. I did not even donate them. I tossed them and it was the most freeing moment. Traditions, memories, family commitment can play tricks on us. I now use that "toss them out moment", on most things I do not know what to do with. It is very therapeutic to let objects go, to clear my mind of those things and just focus on the goodness of the people I have had in my life instead of THEIR stuff.

[@TheAAnne123]

Yipppeee for you! I was unofficially assigned the name “expert of the memories” in my family. I got my grandmothers belongings when she passed, then my mom passed many years later and I got all her stuff. Mind you I still had grandma’s stuff too! Finally finally finally something clicked in me and I started purging by giving special things to special people and the rest I donated. Whew! I love the free feeling👍🏻❣️

[@elizabethsydnor8953]

Thank you, Dawn, for showing your vulnerability! We love you for that!

[@gemotchan]

A tip I have that works for me is time. I might go through an area, a closet for instance and get rid of the obvious clutter and junk, but leave the rest for another day. Then when I come back to it, maybe a month later, I can realize that all this other stuff hasn't been utilized like I thought it might and it's not actually needed. Freeing my mind to let it go much easier. A slower process, but easier for me, plus I'm working in very little chunks of time anyway...

[@JennyT101]

Leah McGregor This is the same way I do it. I might go through a closet 3 times, but each time I get rid if more stuff.

[@TheMinimalMom]

This is an awesome approach! So glad you both shared!

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

I do this too. I think clearing out the most obvious stuff makes it easier when I go back to the same area. And often I come across things and say "why didn't you get rid of this last time?" 😂😂

[@EmmaAppleBerry]

Yeah i think the more you see items too the less they feel special or novelty so when i go through my wardrobe the first time its easy it was stuff that was past its prime ill fitting stained didnt like it decluttering is super easy the first fo because its usually stuff weve been meaning to get rid of anyway and ends up being more of a frustration rage purge when we get sick of looking at it or handling it or it taking up space at all. The second times like oh yeah i wasnt sure last time even though i didnt really wear it i figured id be able to after decluttering or suddenly become some fantasy self version who works out or wears a different style or something out of fashion or whatever but after the time passes between declutters its like ever so slowly the scale gets tipped in one direction of certainty my certainty scale needs to go through things at least 3 times like a proper full on kon mari style one before ive built up the confidence and awareness and whatnot to realise what actually serves me practically and not mt fantasy self or what if just in case deal, what i actually love and want, and what is just gonna be there unused the next declutter and the one after that and that i just need to let go of right now. Its so great that decluttering has so many amazing benefits. The more i shed the unnecessary and the clutter and the things i dont truly love the more i know myself the more me i feel and the happier i am. I was so busy living in a fantasy self or what if self that i wasnt getting to enjoy being me in the moment and loving and rewarding and celebrating who i actually am. I will say though specifically sentimental stuff is still very hard for me i really do need to take pictures and go through sentimental at least 13 times maybe removing one or so things at a time maybe just sitting there and processing the emotions and getting to the root of it all and letting my heart enjoy it and being okay with that progress and proud of myself for having that courage even though smaller and harder declutters arent as satifysing or noticable outwardly they sure do declutter a lot of past emotions baggage and free up the inside for future happiness 💖💖💖 decluttering looks different for everyone even the individual can declutter differently at times. Its not a consistent but it consistently helps and improves ourselves and our lives. 😊

[@bernieallison981]

Thank you for allowing yourself to be vulnerable and to talk your way through it with us. Yes there is power in being able to just talk our way through sentimental, emotional things with others. I know all too well holding it all in... we think we are fine, but we’re just stuffing it down and not letting it go. And it too grows until we just can’t hold it all in anymore. Day 20 of my 2nd month doing the 30/31 day minimalist challenge... I ended up at the Dr’s Clinic, then to hospital in the Ambulance with symptoms of Stroke!!! Well All things - said and done... full set of tests... No Stroke. The neurologist asked “So what is going on? What is similar to this happening 6 years ago?” Stress! I looked at him and said Emotional Stress, and briefly told him what I have been doing for the month of April, and now up to the 20th of May. I came home and took a break. I just rested, no alarms, just did the most important things for a week. Now 2 days in - and it’s the emotional attachment I have to things from my Mom who has been gone now since 1989. And to clothes that were bought just 1 size too small, many items brand new! And the guilt, and sadness that such good clothes are still too small. But from my favourite Brands of clothing... Didn’t the Apostle Paul say under inspiration from God to “be content with sustenance & clothing.” 1 Tim 6:8 and Jesus said talked about this... and I think in one of your videos I watched lately you and your sister shared the verses in Matt 6:25-34 on “Stop being anxious about your lives as to what you will eat or drink or put on... Keep seeking 1st the Kingdom and all these other things will be added to you.” It is just Stuff. And it makes me think of the Israelites wandering in the wilderness for 40 years. And their clothing and sandals didn’t wear out... how much could they take with them on their journey?!? I’m sorry for going on here... it does help like you just said to just talk ourselves through it, or share it with someone... thank you for just being who you are. I so enjoy your video’s. They are my go to KZbin videos. Anyways I must end and go to bed. Until next time... Bernie

[@sjaap141]

So sweet…made me tear up ♥️

[@balboathedog]

You are incredibly gifted at conveying this message, I greatly appreciate you!

[@annettemarie353]

Very important message. Thankyou 🌹

[@tracyj3969]

“Is that item getting to fulfill what it was created for?” - Brilliant! I have watched so many decluttering and minimalism videos but I have never heard it put quite that way. That is exactly what I needed to hear, now I can finally let go. Yay. Great videos, love your channel

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank YOU and isn't it funny how different things click for different people!?! SO glad that it helped!!

[@Mysticsoul77]

I understand the emotional heartache. My Busia (grandma in Polish) passed away a few years ago at 100 years and 10 days. She was the one that delivered me when I was born. I felt horrible that I didn't get to say goodbye to her in person. I called to talk to because I couldn't be there physically. I told her I loved her and thanked her for everything she did for me. I told her it was ok to leave this world. Normally in the morning I'd get right out of bed. The next morning I sat up and just sat there. As I sat their I knew she was passing on. Even though I wasn't with her physically our connection was and still is strong. I know she's watching over me.

[@TheMinimalMom]

This is BEAUTIFUL! 100 years, that is incredible! Thank you for sharing! :)

[@barbchrisman5066]

Thank you for sharing your heart!

[@TheHappyLifeWithLess]

Oh my god I love all your videos! How could someone possibly do a thumbs down! You’re awesome. Super motivating for me.

[@TheMinimalMom]

That's funny, I think that when I watch other people's videos, like who is that cold hard hearted person that could possibly put this down! (then I repent ;)

[@TheHappyLifeWithLess]

The Minimal Mom I know. Even if I don’t like a video I could never put a thumbs down. Someone worked so hard to make that content.

[@paulalerose1546]

If someone doesn't click with the content of a video, stop watching. No need for a thumbs down.Perhaps they are frustrated movie critics.

[@MammaBean0617]

So agreed. She is absolutely amazing and just as adorable as Marie Kondo🥰 live her.

[@TheAAnne123]

The thumbs downers are just jealous, envious people who sit on their couch criticizing people on YT while they stuff Twinkies in their mouths as their butts grow bigger!!!

[@suzanhurd1296]

I recently gave a lot of my mum’s household items to the women’s shelter. The response was incredible. It took me 4 years but my mum would be so proud of me and pleased that her things were given to someone who needed them.

[@twillbdone3273]

Just found your channel and you are a keeper. In this one video you gave me the key to releasing all of my parents discards that have been around since the 50's. The wacky round pine coffee table that has a huge dark knot that looks like the Scream lol. I managed to get custody of stuff I never would have picked out. And from a sense of loyalty to my Mom and Dad I have lugged it around for about 40 years. All of my world is in a storage shed having just sold my last home. I have been scared to death of that storage room. You just gave me such a gift. The tools to finally 'clean house' . You are a very wise young woman.

[@FebbieG]

I had the "just need to tell someone" experience with my yearbooks. I wanted to let them go, but I needed to talk about things in them with my husband first. Then I realized that one page in it actually meant a lot to me, so I ripped it out and kept that. My track medals and art ribbons were the same way. Now the medals are part of my kids' dress up, and the county fair ribbons are out of the house.

[@judysimon8445]

Interesting timing. I just five minutes ago decide that this is what I’m going to do with my yearbooks.

[@kathychatterton5623]

Let me start with I am not a minimalist, I am a pack rat. Having said that, stuff is becoming a negative in my life so I am slowly decluttering. I’d like to suggest that if you know a particular area is difficult for you, get help before you get stuck. For me it is paperwork (I call it my nemesis) especially anything I think I might need it later. A friend is a true minimalist. I would take a box of paperwork to our job and we’d go through it in 15 minutes on a break. If left to my own devices it would take me days.

[@kimchoudhary2440]

I have always been pro getting rid of clutter, but after learning about minimalism, I've realized that even though I don't hoard stuf, I really still have alot of unnecessary items in my house. Thanks for the info and the encouragement to move forward with this process. I'm definitely committed to embracing this life style. 🙏🙏🙏🌸🌸🌸

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you!!! I really appreciate that :)

[@petmomful2260]

Kim, I am going thru my house again, and I am always amazed at how much I get rid of. I dig deeper each time, and realize that a lot of what I am keeping is unnecessary and unused. It is such a slow learning process.

[@margaretfinney6546]

Hi, Love your videos, you are so right on, with everything. You are my favorite organizer. Thank you so much. One thing I will add to your suggestions in my older age which I wish I started many years ago is to stop going to parties, weddings, etc. that you don’t want to go to.but in the past have always gone to because I felt obligated to go to, and I stoped buying gifts for people that I really don’t even like or care about. What has made this an easy process is my husband feels the same way. We don’t really care is people think we are being anti social, It is so freeing. It also makes you feel like you are less of a phony, and you really enjoy buying for people that you love. This goes for family also. All families are not like the hallmark channel..ha. But that’s. Ok life is too short to wish things were different. Enjoy the good and caring people in your life, it is so more rewarding. Your memory of your grandmother was so touching, it made me cry, very sweet. We can’t always pick the way we die, my Moms death was bittersweet, she had a brain tumor and although she couldn’t talk real well at the end we were all able to tell her what a wonderful mother she was, and how much we loved her and she also got to tell my husband and I what wonderful parents we are and how we raised wonderful kind children that she so loved. That experience was so priceless, and I miss her every day. ..

[@shannonmitchem3924]

Just started watching your videos. So inspiring! One thing that I think I’m going to struggle with the most is my 10 year olds stuff, when I get to it. He passed away 4 years ago and even though I know the stuff isn’t him, I can’t get rid of any of it. It’s all packed in boxes, even his dirty clothes from the day before he went into the hospital. I don’t want I to keep it but I don’t want to let it go either. Because I’m just not ready to let anything he touched go. I know I don’t have too, but it doesn’t help with this feeling of too much stuff. I’m really stuck!

[@justjennifer8448]

Shannon Mitchem 😔I just wanted you to know that as I read your comment my heart was breaking for you so I did the only thing I could... I prayed for you. I hope it’s a small heart hug from one momma to another.🙏🏻💙

[@patriciaalbertson5183]

I am praying too. Grieving.... For you. There is no time table for grief. One moment at a time, one step. God Bless you

[@Prudence1733]

Neat to hear that you have a twin!

[@amygregg1658]

Your discussion on our emotional connection to our things and our need to process and share past emotions was so insightful! Thank you! 💗

[@carolyngurney5376]

Does it get to fulfill its purpose? That is mind blowing and so helpful! Thanks so much!

[@TheEllaTB]

This is why your videos are so successful, because they are real. Another thing that helps me keep going, I have learned to focus on what I have accomplished instead of what still needs to be done. As my list of accomplishments grows I get excited to continue and add more to my list ☺

[@medicatedandcaffeinated7946]

Thank you for being so real and vulnerable! You almost made me cry!❤️

[@ashleycalvillo1323]

Thank you for sharing this. I shed a tear for you. I can relate so much. It’s hard to let go of things. I had been holding on to some things of my moms. She passed away suddenly when I was 9. I realized through your videos and teaching that I don’t need to hold on to the things. I can focus my energy on remembering the good things instead of managing these sentimental things. I love that you are always transparent with us! ❤️

[@mk-sw9ow]

Thank you for sharing that others don't think you are sentimental. I think everyone can see (not just from this emotional video, but in you other videos to the same degree) that you are a caring person. People can have very real and valid feelings without needing ties to objects, and should not be made to feel badly for that. I'm not implying that's what happened with your mother, it is just something I think I and many others on this journey have experienced. Thanks for the positive videos :)

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank YOU, that means alot to me!!!

[@deeraven5645]

Yes the sentimental niknaks are a killer! Awww your grandma story was sweet and totally relatable. The memories of her and anything sentimental are always with you and don't take up any space. 💞 Thanks for sharing.

[@cele8561]

I am downsizing to move and am 71 years old. My husband does not feel the need to get rid of much even though we will be moving to a place only about 1/3 the size! He also wanted to get a rental storage unit so we could store “stuff”. As I write this maybe that is the answer

[@katherinefitzpatrick446]

I feel so blessed to have found your channel! Thank you! You have a very nurturing, encouraging way to share such great ideas & tips. I lost count of the "systems" & books I've been through. You have just the right approach -- for me, anyway. I see a difference, not just in the house but in me. God bless you.

[@Karli4Sure]

I know this video is two years old. But I’m just watching it now. And this is extremely helpful to me in the decluttering of my mamma’s home. Thanks 🙏

[@tiffanylavia6764]

Thank you, this was helpful. I came here for help when I got stuck. Watching this while looking at my things I suddenly realized why it was hard to let go of a particular set of things and suddenly teared up. Very helpful.

[@jenhin9840]

Such great advice. I think we all need you there cheering us on when we are purging. 😊

[@prettysquared7625]

I love your videos! You give such thoughtful recommendations keep the minimalism videos coming! I’ve recently moved and purged 75% of my stuff, it feels like a new life. Any upkeep videos are inspiring!

[@TheMinimalMom]

Wow, that's awesome! And thank you!!

[@kimberlywalker1015]

Gooooood food for thought...working on my garage right now/craft room/household goods ect.....OH MY GOODNESS...I have like 26 more areas to go in this space alone BEFORE I'M DONE...HOWEVER....I've carried out several bags of Stuff to Goodwill...and several to the trash....I LOVE this type of thinking....I know that a minimalist house view....will make cleaning SO MUCH EASIER....ready to get to that point...and REALLY focus on truly living....GOD BLESS YOU.

[@beccaschlomann7592]

I've been doing pretty good with minimalizing, even with sentimental items (I also don't feel like I need to keep knick knacks to remember someone by and get very overwhelmed with my place starts getting all cluttered) but the one thing that's actually tripped me up is my wedding dress! My mom had it professionally cleaned and boxed up right after our wedding, almost 12 years ago, which I really appreciated. But it's this massive box that's just sitting around. She held onto it for years when we didn't have the space for it and now we do have space to keep it but I've literally had this conversation with myself and my husband repeatedly where I'm like "but why do I still have it and should I still keep it?" Sure maybe our kids would be interested in seeing it when they're older but I know my daughter isn't going to want to wear it but the time she's getting married and I certainly am not wearing it again. Yet it's the one thing I feel like I have no real reason to keep and just sits in a closet. I even decided I'd give it to a charity who uses old wedding dresses to make burial gowns for stillborn babies and babies who've passed away shortly after birth, so I know it would go to a good cause, and I still can't get rid of it! I decided just last weekend to open the box and take it out and just hang it up in a closet so I could at least see it and now that I've done that, I feel closer to being ready to get rid of it. I think part of my issue is that I feel extremely blessed to have a good marriage and the dress has nothing to do with that but it's (a huge, massive) symbol of the beauty and specialness of our wedding day so it's hard to let it go. But I have tons of beautiful pictures actually wearing it so I think I need to just let it go to a better purpose than just taking up space in my house.

[@TheMinimalMom]

YES!!! This is really good! We moved mine three times and the last time we moved out of my parents house it got left behind so it is there, but I've had the EXACT same thoughts! Fortunately for me, it is out of mind right now, but that is just delaying the decision! I do love the idea of donating it to that charity you mentioned, I may have to look into that :)

[@mjcossel6136]

Becca Schlomann that’s completely beautiful. Thanks for sharing.

[@carollloyd7178]

Love your videos! I believe I was born a minimalist! I began to wonder if I had a problem because I am not a lover of stuff, but I have stuff and was finding it hard to let go. I am now in the process of cleaning out. Things I am not sure if I can let go of it, I put it aside and will return to it later and see how I feel. Also love that you are a christian! Thank you for all the encouragement you pass along to all of us! :-)

[@lvlc5]

I so appreciate this video... bec even when I am not drowning in stuff is still difficult to let go. Love the idea of the $20under replacement...

[@brittw.6095]

Your content is so good, and you're getting even better at the video making part with your confidence in front of the camera. Just watched the meal planning one and love your systems.

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank YOU, I appreciate that!!! :)

[@sandro_m04]

Yes definitely feeling overwhelmed with all the stuff we have but slowly getting through this with the help of my kids. Definitely a good lesson for them as well they are really enjoying getting rid of stuff and seeing some rooms stay clean!!!!!!

[@paigeprouty4145]

I have found that investing in good quality reusable or multipurpose items has helped me so much. Instead of having a million different tools in my junk drawer I bought one a new screw driver that has a bunch of different tops for it. Freed up so much space. I got reusable zip lock bags and realized I never really used my Tupperware. I always just used the reusuable bags so I donated the Tupperware. Freed up a whole cupboard!

[@pknickerson]

So happy I found your channel ! I am drowning in clutter. I had a housekeeper come weekly which I did a surface clean by hiding our stuff. So 4 yrs later increase stress due to stuff, I am starting on simplifying. I am plugging away with your encouragment

[@TheMinimalMom]

That's so great to hear! YOU CAN DO IT! (And it does get easier!!)

[@han.nah.]

This was so special, Dawn. Thank you so much for being open and sharing a great perspective on a tough topic.

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you Hannah! (of course the first thing my mom said after she saw it was: you told EVERYONE that I think you're not sentimental!?! To which I said: well didn't you say that?? And she said yes, but...so you may see her on an upcoming video explaining herself ;)

[@msmary126]

Awesome tips! I think the sentiments hold me back, too. I almost shed a tear hearing your story!

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you Mary...it is incredible sometimes how strong of an attachment silly things can hold!!!

[@Karen-jp1ns]

I'd love for you to do a video about taking a consumer vacation. I did that for a year when I began my decluttering journey in 2015. I went a whole year without buying anything non essential while I began purging every area in my home. It became my lifestyle to only buy things I NEED rather than want. It cuts down on the inventory coming into your home.

[@paigekrome1141]

What a touching video. Thank you for sharing.

[@lindaroberts2282]

I just recently found your channel and I so appreciate your straight forward, honest and heart felt message. This video I feel is really going to give me the push to move on.; thank you!

[@TheMinimalMom]

That's awesome, thank YOU!!! :)

[@christinekeeferfulwoodfitn4176]

Thank you for your videos and for sharing about your grandmother. I too lost my grandmother unexpectedly and it was hard to let go of anything of hers at first. But overtime as another watcher mentioned I have been able to let go of more and more with each revisit. Thanks again. Please know you are appreciated! God Bless.

[@RomyMacias]

Dawn, Thank you for sharing your story with us! Very cathartic for you and me as well!

[@novocaine09]

My dad died suddenly before my eyes on Thanksgiving Day 2006 when I was only 15. I thought as a teen that I was grown up enough to understand and accept that he died. While I understood it, I never realized watching it deeply traumatized me. I've talked about it so much but I still don't know how to work completely through it. I got rid of his stuff, but it still deeply affects me

[@Sdewebb]

People accuse me of not being sentimental as well. Minimalism doesn't remove my ability to be sentimental. I shows me what is really important. I just don't think I need to hold onto things to remind me about someone. I can remember things very well. I simply don't want my family to have to do all this work for me when I die. Seems morbid but I helped clean out a friend's bedroom in high school after she passed away suddenly. It really showed me that 1. You have no secrets when you die 2. I don't want people wasting time trashing stuff or deciding to keep it. If I keep something it's something I want to be remembered for.

[@TheMinimalMom]

Amen! I feel like I appreciate the present SO much more now and it has lessened my desire to re-visit past events, no matter how special they were at the time :)

[@petmomful2260]

Samantha, I so agree. I do not want my kids to have to clean up a big mess when I die. I am 63 and I am continually getting rid of things.

[@bethduroyvoicecoach]

Just happened upon your channel yesterday, and absolutely love it!!! I am home on Fridays, and have had so much fun donating and boxing some things up while listening to your channel. As others have mentioned, I would love to see videos on minimal ideas for meals/food prep, and maybe a house tour. :) We have 4 kiddos, too, and it's always encouraging/helpful to learn how others thrive in smaller homes with multiple kids. Thanks so much!

[@TheMinimalMom]

Nice to have found you, too! Yes to all of those videos! The kids are back to school now so my youngest and I are going to get busy! ;)

[@KatyInNH]

I just watched your video and went to my glassware cabinet. We don’t drink, but have 30ish wine glasses, champagne flutes, etc. Many are quite lovely fine antique glass, but.... so they will be cleared out this week!!!!! Then I will be able to gain breathing room in my daily glassware cabinet where other special occasion glasses are taking room!!!!

[@staciemurray514]

I cannot wait for a home tour! I so value what you have to say, because you keep it so real, you have multiple kids, and and still want to have the things that mean something to you around. ❤️

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank YOU, I appreciate this!! :) :) :)

[@christinae30]

Thank you! Very well spoken!

[@FebbieG]

This morning, I was definitely feeling overwhelmed, and though I've been decluttering for weeks, kept wondering where do I even start!? I kept feeling pulled into different spaces of the house, with no vision or direction. I decided to go into my recently decluttered closet, and ask the Lord where He though I should start. How answer to me was to start by picking up the dirty clothes next to my bed. I did, and I've had motivation all day, and I feel like I've made real progress.

[@jenniferwollenweber547]

Thank you for sharing your touching Story about your grandma 😘 I was very touched by it and after the video kept on going to minimalize...

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you, that means alot!!

[@janetlandry-lucey5386]

You so could be a professional You brought up so many perfect points which effect me and I’m sure sooo many

[@Averil07111]

That was so beautiful about your granny. I am slowly but surely getting rid of more things. It will take a long time till my house is the way I want it.. but I’m moving forward. Thank you,

[@TheMinimalMom]

That's great...everyone's process is different, but moving forward always feels good :)

[@seivardhouserules5782]

Id love to hear some videos about entertaining, parties, houseguests, birthday parties, dinners. All that good stuff

[@TheMinimalMom]

You got it! I LOVE hosting now that we've simplified...adding this to the list :)

[@dawnr6160]

I have the same precious moments cup with my name, which is always Dawn. My grandma also saved all these things for us which I received after she passed.

[@JulesfromNorthfield]

I have accused by my mom and mom in law of not being sentimental. Ugh! Totally get it. I actually have a long way to go with being a true minimalist. I thought I was until I started watching your videos! I am motivated though. Thanks for the touching video.

[@homesteadhousewife9964]

Repost and title it 'How to de-clutter SENTIMENTAL items in your home'. Very good advice! Thank you for sharing your story...people need to process things and that just doesn't seem like a priority these days.

[@TheMinimalMom]

Ah, that's a good idea, THANK YOU!!!

[@rpisuba]

I’m a twin too! Another great video- I think it’s funny that your mom accused you of not having a sentimental bone in your body because I get accused of the same! The truth is that I am totally sentimental... thank you for sharing!

[@TheMinimalMom]

Yay for being a twin, too! Isn't it awesome ? :) And glad I'm not alone with the mom thing! ;)

[@cherylhebdon3454]

Love your posts I appreciate you so much!!!

[@kimmielovesparis1]

Awesome video...I absolutely learn from you every time. The things that trip me up most are the emotional attachment I have to things. And I don’t talk about it but that is something I need to try. Getting rid of things has always been a struggle, since I was a child. When I think about it - one of the earliest memories was my parents getting me a new pillow and I did not want it, I didn’t want to give up my old one, I’m like that even when new good things come into my life to this day - I struggle to release the old stuff. I’m also a saver of new things. I’ll get something new (clothing or something for the house) and I save it. What is up with that?

[@acpfeiffer6057]

I know this is an old comment, but this is the first time I've heard of someone else saving new things like I do. So know you aren't alone! For me I want to keep nice things nice for a fantasy future me that has it altogether and won't "need" items that I don't like but can still use. Meanwhile my nice things degrade and stop being nice before I can even enjoy them.

[@kimmielovesparis1]

@@acpfeiffer6057 Yes! Im not alone. Everyone makes fun of me because I save “new things” and I agree…about the fantasy future me.

[@lisamedeiros7581]

Thank you for your share and video. Very good points!

[@Oyuki-Mayonesa]

Beautiful story. I found myself wanting to keep the care bear to give to my kid, but at the same time I realllllllllly want a clutter free home. Lol so stressful. Because I want to see a surprise/excited/happy look on my kid's face, but then I know these things create clutter :/ ahhh!

[@petmomful2260]

I had a lot of mixed feelings about my dad when he died. I was mostly mad at him. I went to his grave, sat down, and told him all my feelings. (No one was around.) That really helped me. Maybe that would help you. I have also heard of people who write their loved one a letter, read it, and then burn it.

[@TheMinimalMom]

Yes, I've heard of that too, I think it is all about finding what works for you :) best wishes on your journey!

[@petmomful2260]

Thank you. Best wishes to you as well.

[@libraz83]

I learned a hopefully helpful saying to ask yourself...What would this look like if it was easy? That makes your brain take it from the extreme what ifs and trigger the realistic straight through approach. So I'm going to start instilling this as I go too.

[@kellybaker6443]

I love your videos! You are so down to earth and relatable. You're also easy to listen to. You have helped me already and I just discovered you yesterday!😁 Thanks again!

[@charlespaskewicz3563]

I go by my own rule of decluttering one thing a day, no matter in what part of the house. This usually leads to a few more things in the same place being taken care of.

[@miarenee]

Thanks for the sweet nudge - I’m just getting started- 😄

[@happilyeverafterenterprise2239]

Super helpful!

[@jillianh5956]

Your audio has gotten so much better 😂 love this

[@tvsma]

What a great video! Thank you so much.

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank YOU, I greatly appreciate that!!! 💕

[@arelisacuna8913]

Hi. My issue is that I declutter but other people keep sending or bringing more things in. How can I engage others in this process?

[@alfienykabutler5919]

Keep it up. You are an inspiration!

[@TheOrganizedPineapple]

Can you do a video along the lines of 'getting back on track' with minimalism? I was doing so well and now during the summer we have bought and been gifted a lot of "stuff", there's more snacks around since kids are home, we have taken a couple of trips and all that stuff is around, kids can't go outside most of the day because it's up to 110 degrees and arts and crafts stuff plus Legos have taken over most surfaces, and I'm losing my mind. Or if you have one along those lines can you please link? Thank you so much!

[@cassmhb]

Such a great video!

[@HMW4ever]

Thank you for all your videos! They are helping me so much! 😊

[@Dinalynn100]

I have some memories from High school and Earlier, That are tied to cheerleading squad and Dance squad that I was a Partt of in 1974-1978 My mom kept these moments including Ribbons nd Certificates. I am almost ready to let them go. Soon...I do not want my daughter to have to go through all of this. Soon and very soon I'll get to i t+Have the guts to do that. Thank you for the encouragement plus ideas to get it done. Appreciate it so much. Have a Great am/pm!

[@d.d.1126]

I literally have that exact same precious moments Dawn mug!!

[@TheMinimalMom]

That's really funny! Mine went to Goodwill so another person named Dawn can enjoy it ;)

[@JennyT101]

I love your videos! Thank you!

[@LearningAsWeGrow2017]

I have loved watching your channel and am amazed at how your subscribers have grown over the last few months! Your information is so good, aedan's is helping a lot of people. :) I have a hunch you've been inspired by Marie Kondo. I'm wondering if you have a favorite book list for minimalism and home organization. I love having reading resources, so I'd be very interested to know about your top 5 or top 10 favorite home/lifestyle books! You should make a book list episode.

[@TheMinimalMom]

I actually have never read Marie's book (my mom did and told me about it and I've picked up on the methodology over the years :). And I've never read a book on minimalism either, strange, right!?! I've followed a couple of bloggers: The Minimalist Mom and Joshua Becker and The Minimalists (all the well-knowns), but mostly I've had a hard time finding others in the same boat and felt like I've had to make it up as I go! I know, you may stop following me now! ;) I've actually only just re-discovered the joy of reading but have been indulging in fiction (and a couple of parenting books)...do you have any minimalism books that you recommend??

[@TheMinimalMom]

(And thank you for your kids words, and all of your comments and support along the way, I have GREATLY appreciated it-- more than you know!!!!)

[@amygregg1658]

Just my opinion, but your style is so much more realistic for me than Marie Kondo's! 💗

[@kathykraemer722]

My question is what did you do with your items ( grandma's memory) A small little angel on a dresser,may look sweet.