Our Stuff was Stolen. Here's what I thought...

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you Blinkist for sponsoring today's video! www.blinkist.com/theminimalmom -- Use this link for a FREE 7 day trial and 25% off of a premium membership! THANK YOU for watching and I hope you have a good day!!! - Dawn

[@melodik6034]

what model car do you have? really like the 3 row layout for my kids

[@lindseyberrum]

💛

[@ElizabethDohertyThomas]

@@melodik6034 Not sure on hers but my Toyota Sienna has 3 rows! They sell a 7 and 8 passenger versions.

[@karolinaewa]

Hi Dawn! I did give it a try it was pretty good. However I have a question - I'm thoughtful that after the book has been turned into Blinks it communicates more the ideas and convictions of the person that produced the blinks rather than the original author, and so especially with nuanced ideas I just don't trust how could blinks do it justice, even for me, but much more so for kids should they ever want to use it. What do you think?

[@annamcgee7434]

I needed to hear this today! We just moved to Portugal from the US and I bought new cloths for the move, and I didn’t want them to get messed up so I haven’t used them yet…now it’s going to get warm and I won’t be able to use them now for several months, and my son will probably put grow his before he can use them. We will be using them now! Thanks!

[@LindaASJ]

I bought and sent my mom 2 hand painted bottles of wine from Bellagio, Italy. I went to visit her about a month after I got back from Italy. I saw the empty bottles on her cabinet by the TV. I said, wow what special occasion did you use the wine for? She said, I woke up. I’m 75, everyday I wake up is a good day. I miss my mom

[@allison_JR4E]

“I woke up”! Love it… ❤️

[@Christina-wb6sg]

That’s so sweet.

[@texasmimi5566]

I got a kick out of this. Your Mom was cool!

[@anitabeaudoin5624]

That's awesome! haha

[@mmmsunshine5367]

💕

[@kadekaiser8596]

Not going anywhere special today. I’m retired….. usually just throw on a tee shirt and shorts for days at home. This morning I picked out a cute top I usually use for going out. When I looked in the mirror, i felt good and thought, “Why don’t I wear my nicer things around the house?.” Might give my husband something nicer to look at, too…. Hahaha

[@lesleymoore8432]

I grew up with a mom who saved everything for a "special occasion". When she passed, I found dishes, tablecloths, linens, all kinds of stuff I had never seen. Me? Using it, friends. They haven't stopped making them, not really all that precious, these "treasures". I feel so empowered to effectively manage my stuff now, especially with the positive guidance of Dawn. Use it or let someone else use it!

[@kimbucha2949]

I wish I could like your comment 100 times :) so true!

[@mwebb3014]

I learned to use “the good stuff” from a friend who struggled financially after her divorce. Though she had a small apartment in a not so great part of town, she and her daughter used the fine china, heirloom desk, etc every day. She said her philosophy was if something got broken, it’s ok because boy did we sure enjoy having it to use! It changed my whole way of thinking about my stuff.

[@AmythefirstA]

Another sentimental item that I am glad I use: for my wedding my grandmother gave me a large serving bowl with handpainted bluebonnet flowers on it. It's a sturdy glass bowl and good for everyday, though it can't go in the dishwasher. Last time we had company I used it, and one of the guests commented on the pretty flowers. That gave me an opportunity to share with her how bluebonnets are the state flower of Texas, where I'm from, and I shared how they line the road in a sea of blue every spring. It also made me fondly remember my grandmother, who is no longer with us.

[@hannah9235]

I lost my house to the crazy California wildfires in 2018. We lost everything. I felt sad for losing family stuff but also lots of regret for expensive purchases I made. That being said, as time has passed I don’t miss any of the material possessions. I do still get sad for family photos, etc.

[@paulastamper6225]

So sorry. My heart breaks for you

[@suebarnard1734]

I’m so sorry for your loss.

[@marilyn8884]

Glad you are ok. Just..hugs for you & family & everyone else.

[@E_House]

We lost our home in the Marshall Fire on 12/30. It's a crappy club to be in.

[@idaedwards5718]

What a good reminder, “Drink the good coffee! Don’t save it!” Take the risk and use your good stuff and love your people. Excellent message!!

[@leahr.2620]

Life's too short to drink bad coffee.

[@thelmakatherine5396]

My husband found a set of pretty china at a thrift store that at first was stored away to save for the holidays...but then I decided to get them out and use them for everyday. Now I can enjoy them daily and also be so appreciative of the gesture of love my husband made when he brought them home to surprise me.

[@ang_131]

My mom eventually did that when she downsized, she gave away her “everyday dishes” and ate on the China and drank from the crystal everyday instead. Sure, there have been broken dishes and none of her sets are full anymore, but it’s surprisingly easy to find replacement pieces if you’re not fussy about matching patterns. Her collection of crystal glasses is quite eclectic now and lovely in its own way.

[@Jazzatic2011]

Makes sense. If you didn’t have tomorrow then your today would be special

[@cindydolezal2980]

When my husband passed away he left a very expensive bottle of wine that he was saving for a special occasion. I kept it for a while but it wasn't like i was going to use it for a romantic dinner or something. So when my kids came to visit we opened it and drank it on a Tuesday night.

[@raymondmonaghan4112]

So beautiful

[@my_flippin_journey]

*Sorry for Your Loss*

[@MrElecterik]

Thanks for your story; It's a big reminder for me to embrace every moment in life as a special moment, don't wait for a special moment but focus on the moment and make it special with your loved ones.

[@barbarawebb1001]

My grandma made my sister and me special quilts from scraps of dresses our mom had made for us. For years I stores my quilt and wouldn't let anyone touch it! When I finally started using it, it was as though my grandma hugged me all night. Yes, use the things you love. You taught such a great lesson!

[@sabrinasetzler689]

☺❤

[@spookyfish3792]

Yes! My grandma's quilt is getting ragged from the 25 years I've had it. I feel like she's hugging me when I'm wrapped up in it.❤

[@tammydressler4876]

Use the stuff... I started doing this several years ago. I was going through my cedar chest and saw the engraved cake serving set my Granny had gifted us for our wedding. There it was, neatly tucked inside the original box, and I thought, what good is this to me if it simply sits inside a box and is seen every few years when I get nostalgic? So I took the set out, threw the box away, and put the pieces in my kitchen drawer, where they are used whenever we have cake, brownies, etc. One of the best of life's lessons for me.

[@texasmimi5566]

If Granny is still alive please tell her you are using her gift and loving it, that you think of her every time you use it.

[@tammydressler4876]

@@texasmimi5566 Granny passed almost six years ago, but she knew we used her gift.

[@astrongmama]

When I recently decluttered my kitchen I moved three footed water glasses from the china hutch to the kitchen cabinets. I got rid of a bunch of ugly plastic cups and decided to use those glasses instead. I love them, and it makes me happy to drink from them. It's a small happiness, but why shouldn't I take every small happiness I can get? One broke, and my daughter was worried I'd be upset because "those are your happy glasses!" I said, well, I have two more, so don't worry about it. If they all break, I'll know that I enjoyed them, and I won't have so many glasses to keep track of.

[@elleg2851]

Love u call them Happy Glasses!

[@RadCenter]

Life is too short to drink from plastic cups!

[@texasmimi5566]

You can prolly find a replacement on Ebay. I find everything there.

[@denisemurphy4806]

Yes! My mother in law bought me a really beautiful candle at Christmas- hand poured and beautifully scented with Fir, Pine & Clove. As Christmas had passed when I received the gift I thought about ‘saving’ it for next year but instead I’ve been using it throughout the dark, cold winter months that follow on from Christmas here in Ireland. It has brought so much joy. I agree wholeheartedly - use the things 👍🏻

[@demesrvl6761]

I also have to say that since Ukraine was invaded, every time I start to feel sorry for myself, for ANY reason, the minute I realize what I'm thinking, I snap back into a huge sense of gratitude. That's my version of use it/enjoy it.

[@carolinemurray7648]

Yes, what essentials would they pack to flee for their lives. It puts everything into perspective.

[@sweetsanddandy8639]

And so many appear to have only a small shopping bag of items. Unfathomable.

[@aussiehillbilly]

Yes Agree. Verry grateful. Nothing like a good invasion. I wish Putin would sort our government here in Australia

[@sweetsanddandy8639]

@@aussiehillbilly 🤔

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

I agree DeMe. Reality

[@sunflowerbrown5823]

The relief piece resonated with me most. Some years back we had to evacuate in a natural disaster. We had some time to pack up belongings, photos, that sort of thing. When I went to our basement I looked around and thought "It's just stuff" and walked away from it. Our house didn't get destroyed. I started decluttering bit by bit from that point on because it made me realize that nothing we had stored there was of any real importance.

[@lauranewman564]

I love this, and you're right. It's just stuff. A few years ago after dad died I scanned several hundred family photos and gave my siblings the photos on Cd. Therefore if I ever had to evacuate I'd just grab those and a couple in frames and leave. All important documents are scanned and on a USB drive. USB drives even dry out if they get wet, so I could conceivably throw a USB on a lanyard around my neck and off I'd go. Total relief.

[@sunflowerbrown5823]

@@lauranewman564 That is such a good idea! I still haven't tended to all of our old photos by scanning them, though I have done most. I've got one more large project to work on for photos. I did put a majority of digital photos on a portable hard drive. Our disaster was a highly destructive and fast moving wild fire. That moment when I stood in the basement was a defining moment that put everything into perspective for me. I even left serious art work on our walls, just walked away from it all. I made our coat closet into an evacuation closet and everything is there if we ever have to flee again.When we left that day the fire was coming through the trees on our property. Very scary and stressful but it showed me what was really important to me in terms of material things. Not much!

[@pameehanson3866]

I had a girlfriend who was a person who used all her best dishes and everything in her home every day,. I stated to her oh I save that stuff for good and her response was "Good for What?" and now I remind myself that if I start to hoard or not use something what am I saving it for? Good for What? Thanks for sharing

[@nmbr6kid]

Love this response ❤️

[@midcenturymel616]

I use my good stuff, my Mom was a save it for good. She passed when she was 64 and I was 29. Good is now 😊

[@mamadahling]

Many years ago our garage was broken into on the night we had moved Into to our new home. Scary that we slept through it. But because everything was still in boxes we never knew what had all been taken. Ever so often over the years we would say, “ I thought we had one of those”, and then laugh and say it must have been in the garage. Sorry for your loss. It is a violation of personal space that is very creepy and unpleasant .

[@momsnewlife1197]

About 3 months ago, my 18 year old asked why we don't use the china that we got for our wedding The next day I put the china in the cabinet and it is now our everyday dishes. The fancy glassware is everyday now, too. I have 9 kids and didn't want it to break when they were little, but now I let the grandkids use it now, too.

[@janicejettsitter2097]

We received some china from a friend and donated our every day dishes, so that we could use it every day.

[@tali9970]

I want to use ours as our current set is made up of a variety of different sets, most of which are chipped or dont fit in the dishwasher but the husband isnt ready too yet.. 😕

[@cynthiafisher9907]

@@tali9970 Maybe start using it on Sunday or a certain day of the week that is more special for you?

[@rachelcrossen8136]

I love this idea but mine is not dishwasher safe and I don’t want to have to hand wash them all

[@jenpisano5954]

I was JUST thinking the SAME THING! I have mine on display… but i have to climb up and DUST them… I think I’m going to get rid of what we’re currently using and USE my display china 🥰🥰🥰

[@rebeccablashock3829]

So so sorry to hear this happened! What an oxymoron, though: someone stealing from a minimalist.....Geez! But you are the best for sharing and giving us a wonderful message. Love your heart! :D

[@udhe4421]

They wanted to make her even more minimal! Lol

[@stmiller626]

I was thinking the same thing. Jokes on them, I hope they learned their lesson!

[@toniisaacsen3523]

@@stmiller626 Well said. I hope they get a lot of joy out if those sea shells. Poor Gage.

[@kelconway5792]

@@toniisaacsen3523 I can relate to putting the whole incident in perspective, like Dawn described, but I certainly can't relate to hoping the criminals get any joy out of the items stolen. I see anyone who would do such a thing as the equivalent of garbage and wish nothing good for them, other than to find God and redemption.

[@exileonearth6942]

When traveling, I pray for my vehicle to be protected when I have to leave it. So far my prayers have been answered over many years. One trip I had a problem with the key fob not locking the doors once in a while. Even when I came back after a night in a hotel, the unlocked vehicle had clearly not been touched. I also pray protection over our home and land when storms approach. One particularly bad storm of straight line winds knocked down wide paths of trees on the 40 acres next door to us, which was a home and acreage we had sold the year before. We had built a smaller house on the 40 acres we kept. The property we sold had so much of the forest knocked down that loggers had to be brought in to clean up much of the acreage. Our 40 acres lost less than 10 trees. My husband who had been sad about downsizing said we had sold at the right time. I told him that I was up praying during the storm as soon as I heard the wind start to blow. God still answers prayers. Praise His Holy Name!

[@hollyc1218]

10 years ago there was a very bad windstorm in my city. I prayed all night that the Lord would cover our house with his hands and keep us safe. In the morning the house was safe but my car that was parked on the street was crushed by a tree. I was so thankful and realized I never prayed for the car to be kept safe lol.

[@kathystearns9012]

I pray for everything, and my loved ones too, and the different communities suffering unpleasant events - The Lord God DOES hear and answer prayers - He's interested in His children and their lives

[@philipwagner9169]

Wow! God was set on doing something horrible, but because you asked nicely, he did it to somebody else. Christian logic is truly astonishing.

[@jasminm8784]

I love how you analysed this situation and your emotions connected to it and actually took a valuable lesson for yourself from it. That is so awesome! Glad that nothing happened to you guys in both stories. Things can be replaced.

[@gaild9003]

I'm sorry this happened! Bummer! Several years ago, I saved a half bottle of cleaner that I really loved but couldn't find in stores anymore. Since I couldn't replace it, I saved it for special occasions when I wanted my home to look and smell really nice. You are so right about it gaining value in my mind, because I ended up never using it. I just kept saving it for someday. Sadly, I was decluttering one day a few years later and I discovered it had gone all funky, so I had to throw it out. I was filled with regret because I had never used it. The same thing has happened with lotions, perfumes and bubble bath. Why do we do this? I now use stuff while I have the opportunity. Wise words Dawn!

[@sherriepiechowski4556]

I went through the same feelings years ago and came across a similar quote. From that day forward I use all the stuff I cherish and value. Our China dishes became everyday dishes. My going for a visit night wear became EVERY night nightwear. I started using tablecloths and keepsakes as a everyday treat. I love it! It makes me feel that life itself is a treasure as well as the people in it!

[@PlantHoardingAdventures]

I got a beautiful set of someone's wedding china from marketplace, that they never used and were getting rid of for that reason, FOR FREE!!! and they are still in the boxes she gave them to me in! I think about them ALL the time because I told myself that I WILL use them, and I somehow have convinced myself that because I have a 3-year-old I have to wait. But my kid eats from the same fragile set as us and so far has never broken anything. I just want to say THANK YOU!! I'm putting this kid to bed and going to the basement to get those damn dishes! The enjoyment starts tonight!! 💖

[@meg10gaming87]

“This is the day the Lord has made! Let us rejoice and be glad in it!” I was brought up in a house where we “saved things for good.” My cousins were allowed to wear nice clothes for every day which I always felt was odd. Even raising my small children, I felt I was always holding onto their nice things instead of using up before they outgrew them. I had been hoping you would touch on this subject of not “saving for good” and I think this is the perfect message to inspire me to peel back the next layer and keep decluttering my house! Thanks!

[@plantsbythemoon9049]

I can totally relate to Gage. I would join him in a good cry over the stolen sea shells. I don't buy souvenirs but I usually find a cool rock, shells, sea glass or some other found treasure on trips. I have fun displaying them in a jar, cigar bax or China bowl and when kids come over, that's the first thing they go for. I enjoy watching them examine the treasures and ask where I found them. Most of the time I remember each one. Nature provides a bounty of free gifts if we slow down enough to find them.

[@summerbaby4600]

I was reminded of the quote by Steven Wright. “I have a large sea shell collection which I keep scattered on beaches all over the world. Maybe you've seen it.” 😊

[@echomikekilo63]

I had a set of four crocheted dish clothes that my mom made just before she died. In December of 2000! I usually use disposable j-clothes and every time I reached in the drawer for a new one, I'd have to lift the crocheted clothes to get at 'em. A few months ago, I had the brilliant thought, "Why am I not using these?" Turns out, I really love them! Thanks, Mom! Sorry I buried them in a drawer for 21 years!

[@emilyblake1865]

I have no idea why but when you started talking about the relief because "the decision is being made for you" I started to tear up!! I'm constantly going through all my things trying to declutter and constantly evaluating whether I need to keep something or not. Some times it's super exhausting. I've totally had that relief come upon me when my children accidentally break something and I have to throw it out. I'm just like happy to have one less thing to keep.

[@andreas.5584]

My son broke a glass trying to put away the dishes. He was afraid I would be upset with him. I thanked him for giving me one less glass to have to deal with. It wasn’t a special one anyway and he felt so much better about the situation when he knew I wouldn’t miss it.

[@lmheling]

Following your Declutter Your Home in 15 Minutes A Day course I decluttered our bathroom and found so many expensive bath and beauty products that I was "saving" for a special occasion. Some were 10+ years old. All went in the garbage. Seeing all the product in the garbage reset my brain that there is no more saving for a special day, today is THE special day.

[@NLY1WAY4U]

Oh so right. Lotion is the worst as it gets all watery after a while. Pitched so much bath and body works...ugh! Now I use as I get and smell/feel good for myself too!

[@poolfield2]

Several years ago my husband bought me an opal and diamond ring and because I know opals don’t like getting wet I put the ring in the safe and probably only wore it 3 times a year. At the end of last year I came to the conclusion that at 65 every day is a special day and so now I wear it every day, it gives me great pleasure and if the opal cracks so be it, at least I will have had joy from wearing it daily.

[@sarahbannon4752]

I have an opal ring that I rarely wear for the same reason. Do you wear yours now and get it wet? I want to wear mine everyday, but don’t want to be constantly taking it off when I wash my hands, or do dishes, maybe I should just risk the water!

[@HannahRainbow88]

My wedding rings are an emerald and clusters of tiny diamonds, and deliberately only worth £600 - I would've been scared to wear anything worth more AND they look like a big goofy smiley face which makes me smile every time I look at them :D

[@poolfield2]

@@sarahbannon4752 I wear it all the time, washing up, in the bath etc because I know what I’m like, if I take it off I’ll lose it!

[@holly5791]

I am so sorry that this happened to you guys. The children must have been so disappointed, too. Now about those seashells...One summer, my grandson went on a beach vacation with my husband and me. We collected 4 gallon zipper bags full of shells. I, too, didn't know what we would do with all of those. They ended up in a flower bed and looked pretty good, too. I'm glad to see that you have a good attitude about all of this. There's another quote by Corrie Ten Boom about not grasping things too tightly because God can pry them out of your hand. She was a Holocaust survivor in case you aren't familiar with her writing. 🙂

[@gapeach51170]

I have spent years curating a closet of clothes I love. 99% of them were bought secondhand and a lot of them are vintage. I am flying for the first time since I was 10 years old and I am packing in a carry on because I would be devastated if my vintage clothing was lost. :) On another note though, I have several pieces of jewelry that belonged to my grandmother and I used to have them put up in the top of the closet for "safe" keeping. One day it dawned on me that when I am gone .... someone else will get my grandmothers jewelry and be the one to enjoy it. Since that day I wear it and I love it!

[@anitas5817]

I love this message. Make every day special because it is. There are only so many days and we aren’t guaranteed anything.

[@johnhough8114]

So sorry this happened to you and the family but glad it wasn't anything more serious. After watching your video, I went up to the spare bedroom and dug out my Silverware box that only sees the light of day at Christmas. My mother gave me my everyday flatware as a shower gift, over 55 years ago. It is tarnished something fierce and I've been thinking of replacing it. After your video, decided that was dumb. I have a beautiful set of silverware. Why aren't I using it everyday. I'm 76 years old. What am I waiting for. Decision made. I'm using it everyday from now on. Thank you for showing me the light.

[@nikkidorsey2215]

My Grandma died wearing a pair of ratty old shortie pajamas that wear heels together with safety pins. When we were going through her drawers we found 32 pairs of brand new pajamas she was "saving for good"! That experience changed my perspective on the whole "for good" mindset. I use everything now and enjoy it. Thanks for this video. A lot of people are still holding on to that "for good" mantra.

[@sandratakagi2204]

In cleaning out my husband’s mother’s house when she passed away, we found a linen closet packed with brand new, excellent quality towels and sheets. Yet the towels and sheets that she used daily were worn out and threadbare. The up side is that we donated these linens to people who needed them (because we didn’t need them ourselves) but it meant that she never allowed herself to enjoy these nice things. Unfortunately my husband has a similar view point… but I’m chipping away on using my own good things. This includes wine - along these lines I once heard an interview with 2 wine critics, a couple, Dorothy Gaiter and John Brecher, who invented “Open That Bottle Night” encouraging us to open a symbolically significant bottle of wine before it turns to vinegar from waiting too long for that “special occasion “.

[@The_Robs]

We had the same experience cleaning out my mother in law’s home after she passed, she had brand new nightgowns and lingerie in her dresser that she was saving for “good”. She deserved to use good things, she had the kindest heart of anyone I’ve known and would give the shirt off her back to someone in need, yet she held on to them and wore the same old things every day. I suspect that having lived during the Depression years may have influenced her thinking that she should keep things for later, just in case she wasn’t able to get them at some point.

[@bmedve3427]

Many years ago, I joined a foreign language conversation class. A number of people had been in it for years for the company and socialising with a great teacher. So, every last class before school holidays we'd have a party with food and drinks. The best wine in fact that I have ever tasted. Here's why: the oinologist's wife would bring in a few surplus bottles that "needed to go". Their wine cellar was so big, she said, occasionally she put some bottles on the curbstone for others to share because it was a shame to let them turn to vinegar and there was only so much she and her husband could drink. On another note: my mother,too, has a number of those threadbare tea towels that she says are ultrasoft and so absorbent so she still likes using them. And I have two stories, one about regret, the other about regret and relief. While I was a student, I visited a great-aunt who one day admired a blanket in a shop window. I pondered getting it for her but thought, I could only just afford it, so I didn't. The next day, my purse got stolen on the metro - would have made no difference moneywise but have been a lovely gesture from the heart. My mother had kept our toys from decades back in her basement, and I kept postponing making any decision or bringing them to my home. Then the basement needed emptying fast for some renovation work, when I found those things had all been water-damaged and ended up mouldy and smelly: dolls, teddy-bears, furry animals, plushies stuffed with straw. Both heartbreaking and a relief. Same relief can also be found when rodents get into your things. That's when fire, water, and vermins become your friends😉

[@Eeeekamouse]

Yes!!! This hits home for me as I'm constantly "saving" "preserving" and just holding onto stuff but really, I'm just wasting it. I have to keep reminding myself that if i don't enjoy it while i have it, it'll still be there and probably thrown out when i pass on. Might as well enjoy it!

[@LilCraftyNook]

Exactly!! 👍🏻

[@amerakaiser8996]

Growing up when we made it to the beach and had buckets of shells to bring home my mom started a sea shell garden ! She made a flowerbed with an azalea in the middle and we could pick 2-3 shells to bring in and the rest got dumped around the azalea bush and we could go out and the shells where always there on display , several family members and friends did the same thing too and I have one from my beach travels at my own house now !

[@hannahcrumley3103]

@Amera Kaiser & @the minimal mom 💕I have done similar- I have a special flower bed that has all the shells, rocks, stones , even a brick…. Special treasures that my kids would collect on trips , camping or even just as we took a walk…. It was always the place where those things could live. Special things would go in a small box in their rooms but they would regularly dump them into this flower bed. Today the kids are all grown and I see all those precious stones & shells poking out under the roses- such sweet memories! Btw- This was my favorite flowerbed , my favorite plants etc so the kids knew it was a treasured place for me too & I encouraged them by collecting a few rocks for it myself!😉

[@victoriaoliver9958]

What a great idea! Thank you for sharing.

[@benjie923]

Bless your heart Dawn! Most people would say their first feeling would be anger for loosing their possessions, not regret like you felt. God is using you to reach us so many valuable lessons. Thank you so much for your ministry because that’s what it is! 💕💕

[@sylviaesposito4757]

I was just thinking last night about my great Grandma plate. It was one of the few things that we brought over from Scotland when we immigrated in !957. It was careful lying wrapped and put in the only streamer trunk we brought with us. We have moved many time and has been lovingly taken care of. It’s put away for safety and I’m going to put it on my desk to hold some ephemera for crafting. It’s about 140 years old.

[@debbie122]

The same thing happened to me about 30 years ago. I came home from work, walked into the house from the garage, walked through the living room, down the hall, and into our bedroom before realizing someone had broken into our house. I knew something was changed but my brain didn’t comprehend it until I walked into the bedroom and saw all the drawers open with our clothes strewn on the floor. They stole our T.V., VCR, video camera, and my jewelry box which had my grandmother’s watch that she had given me the Christmas before she passed away in it. To this day, I don’t keep my jewelry in a jewelry box.

[@kellybrown4266]

This might be the video that resonates most with me! I have been watching your videos for over a year, but I was never more thankful to have found you than when our family had a total loss house fire back in August 2021. I felt exactly how you explained. Of course I was emotional, because I lost EVERYTHING. But, only the sentimental baby things and memory bins bothered me. I had, for the most part, detached from “stuff”. Even my friends recognized that I had been spreading the minimalism message for a while, and how amazing it was that God was preparing my heart for this trial, long before I even knew. Thank you for your message! It was used by God to get my family & I through what could have been an even worse emotional experience. ❤️

[@allison_JR4E]

That’s amazing Kelly! God is so good. ❤️

[@my_flippin_journey]

*Love Your Message* In my prayers, I ask God to help prepare other's for the trials and tribulations they are to face .. although it may be selfish, I've recently started including myself. I too, need his grace & guidance .. *We all need as much preparation as possible, before we have the rug swept out from under us* ... ❤

[@danielleporcaro5422]

This story reminds me of a vivid memory during my college graduation. I graduated suma cum laude with a 3.88/4.0 GPA and I worked my butt off for it. I was awarded a special rope to wear along with my cap and gown for this accomplishment. Well at the end if the ceremony, as I was heading over to take celebratory photos with my family, I realize my rope was gone from my neck. I spent the next hour frantically look for it, going to the administrative office to tell them it was gone and to start the process of hopefully getting a new one. I eventually got a new one, but do you u know where that rope is now? In the same place it's been since I graduated in 2010 - in a box in the basement. As I reflected on that day some years after it had passed, I remember wholeheartedly regretting all the time I wasted on that stupid thing when I could have been enjoying the time with my family celebrating my achievement instead of obsessing over a silly rope that proved what I already knew in my heart - I worked so hard and reached a huge goal in my life. I wish I could turn back time and change that day, but I learned a valuable lesson. The stuff really isn't important at all.

[@nikan7704]

I love this story, and the lesson is a great reminder. Thank you for sharing

[@Skittl1321]

I just got rid of all my honors cords...20 years after graduation. I was so proud of them, but they never left the storage box.

[@amandalandvlog8438]

I got so emotional reading about that rope! What an incredible lesson learned that stayed with you.

[@beckykastelz1648]

Beautiful lesson learned! Also that’s a crazy achievement, I don’t know you BUT I am feeling so proud of you, LOL!!! 🙌💪

[@Christina-wb6sg]

I also got emotional reading this!

[@bevwyckoff2451]

I decided to use my grandmother’s serving bowl at my mother in laws dinner. I put corn in it and let our son with Down syndrome carry it in. Yup. He dropped it. It shattered. He cried so hard!! I had made a point of saying this was grandma’s dish. Funny, when he cried, my heart shattered and I was so angry I had kept that stupid dish. Much rather have my beautiful boy

[@kyouell]

Mama, I hear you! My son with Down syndrome is 16 and, well, I hear you!

[@texasmimi5566]

Now THAT us perspective. Good for you, Mama.

[@Carolmaizy]

If we broke something of hers my grandmother would always say, "It's just a glass" or "It's just a sugar bowl"- it doesn't matter- it's just a thing. She was a wise person.

[@marilyn8884]

Think you put him in an awkward position.

[@HerCupOfSIMPLE]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing !🤗🥰💝

[@christinewelch4918]

I was travelling in Europe with a suitcase that was way too big for a trip on trains. It was actually stolen off the train and I was relieved! I bought a small tag-along that just fit the essentials and I had such a fun time not dragging that big suitcase around! My friend was exhausted all the trip from dragging her suitcase around. 2.5 weeks with only the essentials! Bonus!

[@cassierittenhouse7351]

So true! My grandma was a great baker, especially bread! I was blessed to receive 3 of her glass bread pans when she passed on. I have been baking bread once a week in these pans for 12 years and I think of her every time. Yes, I get nervous that I might drop them, but I would rather honor her by using them and risk them breaking than storing them away and not thinking of her as often. 💕

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

And that may happen. Glass gets brittle as it ages and is more likely to break. Use and enjoy everything.

[@cassierittenhouse7351]

@@TheDriftwoodlover that's good to know. Thank you, I will! ☺️

[@mush3199]

The strange thing is that the person who stole the stuff probably won’t find any value in what they took.

[@elisabethpatterson9417]

I agree! I wonder what their motive was.

[@user-3l1]

they are going to sell those things 😔

[@bethbranson9050]

Dawn, Thank you!! This topic really hit home for me as I am in the process of bringing out my Gram’s cherished items and realizing that no one has had the chance to enjoy them for 50 years or longer! They are now being used or given to extended family members for their use and enjoyment! It is interesting to me that as a minimalist I have never had a difficult time purging my own items but always ran a wide circle around the “ cherished items boxes.” HA! I am sorry you were inconvenienced but love the opportunity for this topic! Great food for thought! Enjoy your channel so much!!

[@thewadsquad]

What a beautiful message ♥️ so sorry your things got stolen from you but your perception is spot on.

[@diellensy27]

Thanks for this. I'm going to wear my new favorite sweater and nice jeans today! I've been waiting for a reason to wear them this last month or so but life just isn't handing out special days in this season of life. Time to make today special.

[@angelapack349]

Yes it is a terrible invading feeling to be “stolen from” and the anger. I do use my Waterford crystal and my son has always enjoyed it along with my Fiesta ware. His high school teacher was shocked that he used these almost daily. His reply was Mom know s life is short so we use it! Enjoy life! Yes on the guilt and shame on not using! 🥰

[@deeevoted8810]

Dawn, that happened to me once at my house. Knowing Jesus really helps. They missed an envelope full of Boy scout money! We would have had an awful time replacing that at the time. Thank you Lord for the protection. 💕 everything is replaceable.

[@koriredman3311]

I really love your perspective on having your stuff stolen. I'm sorry that happened to you. I also love that during self-reflection you realize to just use up the stuff. I'm a professional organizer. I'm going to use that piece of advice with my clients all the time in the future and I'm going to tell them about you. I encourage you to add the super thanks button to your KZbin channel. I personally and professionally have benefited from the excellent content that you post on your channel. You are so insightful, always learning, and very inspiring. I would love to give you a tip via super thanks as a way to say thanks for making my life better.

[@ElizabethDohertyThomas]

LOVE this video. I call it "the truffle moment" where you save something... in that case, til it's too bad to eat, because the special moment never came. It is a spiritual discipline to use our stuff or get rid of it!! Really loved this video so much.

[@bobbihofacker2706]

Wear the jewelry. I was given an expensive ring that belonged to my grandma's aunt. I kept it in the safe for two years. I decided one day to just start wearing it. Now when I get compliments on it I get to talk about her and my grandma ❤️

[@AmythefirstA]

Recently I looked through a box I've had for years. In it I found some candles I had bought years ago, and a special personalized charm keychain an employer gave me. I gave away the candles and put the keychain on my key ring. Not long afterwards my husband dropped my keys and broke the keychain. I was sad, but also relieved, and happy that that thoughtful gift saw the light of day for at least a little while.

[@lifelovejourney]

I have been using my moms good china for every day. People think I’m a bit crazy but I thought of a good quote today. “Grilled cheese and tomato soup taste better in good china.” And they do! If it got stolen tomorrow I will have used it!!!

[@cindywilkinson1610]

I do the same!

[@rolandadaniel3124]

I love the thought that every day is special. Erma Bombeck wrote a great piece on that before she died.

[@shelbybell787]

I finally had this realization with consumable gifts. I often stored away nicer soaps and lotions but hated sorting that stuff too. I realized I was overthinking it, it was expensive and I knew it would go fast and I probably wouldn’t replace. But then I realized hello, it’s a gift, that’s the point. Something fun to *use* for a bit that I might not buy myself.

[@joanneperry8021]

I put scented soaps in my dresser drawers...clothes smell nicer.

[@Lesh004]

I love the minimalist term “use stuff love people”. I can think of one tote of things I’d be devastated to loose. Otherwise it would be just an annoyance to replace. And the only non sentimental items I’d be so mad to loose are my jeans. I have a hard time finding jeans I like. 😂

[@elizabethnichols2284]

To answer your question, I thought, "Wear the clothes!" Since I stay home with my kids, I'll sometimes catch myself thinking "that's too nice to wear, just around..." and I shouldn't do that! As I've cleaned out my closet, I've come across things that are in great shape but are out of style because I was saving them! For what?! Lesson learned!

[@cherrytreeblossom8475]

My son's flat got flooded recently. He was in the middle of clearing out his belongings as he's moving, so had retrieved all the smaller items and put them in storage even before we knew the flood was coming. He was left with the larger items - sofa, double bed, fridge etc, -to deal with. He had no use for them any more and had been thinking he would sell them, although you don't get much for second hand furniture. Then the flood hit and all the large items were ruined. All he has to do is put them on the kerb and they will be taken away for free. Sometimes things are taken care of for you.

[@jeanbraun6959]

I had this beautiful stationery set stored for a "special" occasion or just for a keepsake because I loved the look of it. This weekend I was looking for cards to write out for my friends for International Women's Day and decided, what's a better day than this and I used all of that stationery. It felt good to use something I prized but also it feels like a relief to not look at it and think "why am I just storing this?!".

[@kimjaymama26]

"Life itself is a special occasion" This reminds me of the lightbulb moment from watching you when I realized I am moving further away from becoming my ideal self when I hold on to my ideal self things that cause me stress. We are not promised tomorrow and so everything around us, taking our time and energy and brain space better be worth it. If it's not, then it's robbing us

[@salgal861]

I found a plate that was tucked away in the back of my china cabinet for years that holds special meaning to me. When I found it I decided that to use it was better than to keep it hidden away. I have been watching quite a few minimalism KZbinrs including you and it has helped me to realize it's okay to use something that is special to you. Yes I might end up braking that plate while using it, but that isn't going to stop me from enjoying it now. I am sorry to hear about your things being stolen, but thank you for sharing the story and being honest about your feelings.

[@val99star]

What a pain, and that feeling of being violated! Nice perspective and thoughts on what we love--USE IT! Glad you're okay and home safe.

[@MargoJ1546]

A QUILT!! When my husband's grandmother had passed and we received a beautiful (single bed) quilt that she had made. My mother in law said we should put it away to keep her memory. No, I put it on my daughters bed. She had that quilt on her bed since she was very young until she got married. She has more memories from that special quilt than she would if it was packed away in moth balls to be found years later. It is worn and well loved. ❤

[@user-vp5oo1no7g]

As a quilter, I think your husband's grandmother would have been full of joy knowing that her great granddaughter loved it and used it! I tell all the people I give mine to - it's meant to be used!

[@donnasmith1403]

I crochet and feel the same way! If you don't use what I make for you, you don't get another one!

[@jewelboykins8887]

I really connect with that. I would do that with my kids “good “ clothes. They always grew out of it before they used them. I also find myself doing the same with my wardrobe.

[@y.peffle2802]

Ugh same, with their "fancy" clothes. They wear it 1-2 times for church and then we pass it on to my sister.

[@scraphappyjen4561]

We’ve had floods here in Australia and my sister lives just outside one of the worst affected towns. I would say at least half of the town has lost everything, some for the second time in a decade. She only moved there six months ago, their car was swept away in the flood waters and her husband had to be rescued from the roof of a friend’s house who was helping him save the shop they work in. My cousin who lives a few hours from her had flooding all through the lower half of his house and now has the dubious task of trying to salvage and clean up from the mess his home has become. People are literally throwing out a lifetimes worth of belongings. While my sister lives high enough that her own place didn’t get flooded it has really thrown into stark contrast for me just how loosely I should hold onto my own stuff. My new barometer for whether or not I want to keep something has become “Would I want to save this from a flood or fire, or would I just be relieved I didn’t have to deal with it?”

[@hannahcrumley3103]

Oh my goodness…. This comment has helped me so much… what a great barometer to use!!!! Especially with the things I think are sentimental but actually really aren’t! As I read this I can think of 3 items that I put in my memory box yesterday that I need to go pull out… because, NO, I wouldn’t save them in a flood or fire!

[@christinevinnie2157]

I was in town when an evacuation order 🔥 was put on my street, and couldn't get back home so couldn't 'save' anything. All ended well, but when was able to get back to house realised that wasn't much that I would of taken. Stay safe 💧

[@primesister2756]

Yes, this comment is soooooo helpful! Thank you for sharing this.

[@Gherkinlife]

Thank you.

[@michellenitschke5485]

I'm in SA and have seen just awful scenes on the news ,sending love and prayers xx

[@LiveOnPurposeTV]

Life IS the special occasion - I love that! Dawn, thank you for all the good you do. DrPaul

[@kelseygreene8807]

This hit me so hard. I've vaguely felt this but you put it into words. Thank you Dawn - you're channel is a ministry! ❤

[@10nurse29]

I’m so sorry someone stole from you. That is so violating. Since they stole clothes and food- I hope they truly needed it.

[@carlarevie6817]

You are so right Dawn - I left Mozambique as a refugee when I was 16 and my parents had lost everything- at the time it was such a loss and I mourned all my special things like rocks - I loved rocks - after such a loss my perspective changed completely and things started to mean less because life and people were so much more important than things - fast forward to now I am 63 and a grandmother and things are there to be used and my family and grandchildren are the most important things in my life - I have what I need but not much more - love your video and how amazing you are at inspiring people - sending lots of love from Sydney Australia xxxx

[@KimsF101]

Thank you for this, I am going to start using my grandmother's, and great grandmother's, china tonight! Life is too short! Much love to you all! Gob Bless!

[@Nikki-1716]

Hopefully the people that stole the stuff needed it more. Glad your attitude and perspective are so encouraging 👍❤️ Enjoy each day!

[@suestewart546]

Many years ago now, I took my "good dishes" and put them in the kitchen cupboards to use. We got rid of all the extra sets we had and are still using them. My husband calls them our "happy" dishes because they are so pretty. Sure a few have been broken but they still make us happy. I generally save nothing for "special occasions" anymore. Life is too short. Well done Dawn.

[@nikithede8062]

I love this perspective! Thank you for sharing. I totally can relate to waiting to use things! And it’s making me re think some things and I might just go down stairs and grab a few things to bring up and use 😊

[@AlisonV362]

Thank you for this perspective! I was raised in a "save it for a special day" type family and still working thru breaking that mentality at almost 50!

[@crterwil]

Wow. So glad you’re all ok. Yes. Everyday is a miracle. Hubby survived widow maker heart attack 7 years ago. I take nothing for granted and am eternally thankful and in those few days when he hung in the balance nothing else mattered and my priorities were forever adjusted. I use the good china and thank God for the gift of a normal day. Great post as always.

[@allison_JR4E]

So thankful your husband is still with you! ❤️

[@TickledPinkTeri]

Dawn, this is one of the best learning videos. I’m sorry you had to go through both of these times. And I learned quite a while ago to use things, play with things etc. Because they are no good in a box saved or forgotten. We had lost a household of items twice during a move and stolen from us. It was so stressful and sometimes hard to get over. But, like you said, it was out of my control and the decision was made for us. With everything going on in the world we have to remember what is important here and now. Hugs💗and prayers🙏🏻

[@sueallen558]

I listened to this at 2 am as I’m in the third day of moving to a new house for the first time in 20 years. What an eye opening reminder of how to look at our “things!” I realized during our move that though I have been “downsizing” for years that I still was packing so much random last minute that made me question whether I ever got rid of anything at all : ) Thank you for the beautiful reminder to enjoy our things and not save them. You have been the best gift as your advice is always so gentle and kind.

[@pattiefarley6867]

I use my ancestors items. I treasure them because they used them. I wouldn't have fond memories of Grandma's spoon holder if I hadn't seen it on her stove everyday. If it breaks, I will not loose any memories of Grandma and I had years of joy using it.

[@diellensy27]

Wouldn't our grandmothers laugh at us if they saw their workhorse items be relegated to storage like some sort of treasure? I've got a couple of items I need to pull out for this very reason. Thanks!

[@lucy2steele]

Yes!! I’ve been trying to implement all of these ideas this year!! I have so many things (even after decluttering for years) and I’m finally at the point where if I don’t use it too much, it’s either gone or in a “purgatory/storage” box for a set period of time to see if I really miss it.

[@ctckidz7111]

There was a story going around years back about a young wife who was saving an extra-fancy piece of lingerie for a "special occasion". She ended up passing away before she wore it. And so her husband shared this truth, which apparently spread far and wide, that every day is a special occasion. We aren't promised tomorrow. So don't wait. I have never forgotten that story, and like your own experience, it has reminded me to use the beautiful things, the things we cherish, on any given day. Because each one we have is precious. XO Thanks for always sharing truth in such heartfelt ways! I love and appreciate you and your family. -Ranell

[@juliab628]

I heard this from Diane in Denmark, her channel, several years ago when I began flylady. She always said, "everyday is a special occasion!" That has stuck with me and I think that all the time now! I do need to remind myself of this everyday, but I try to live it out now. But I know what you mean Dawn, it is just human nature to want to save the special things. Maybe it's just because we think we can savor the moment of them longer..... Oh! Don't replace the hair straightener! Those of us with stick straight hair are continually baffled that others would spend money to make their hair look like what we wish wasn't the case 😂 I think you should go for the minimalist hair bc your hair is pretty that way!

[@1012chart]

Love Diane in Denmark!

[@DianeinDenmark]

Hello here, my friend Julia and, go you! 👋😃 Yes, "every day is the special occasion" is my motto and an intrinsic part of a hygge life 🇩🇰 Use and enjoy what you have, and make the most of every single day! That goes for our relationships too 😊💖

[@DianeinDenmark]

@@1012chart 🙏😊

[@kimberlyreiter3213]

So happy to have had your channel recommended, I really appreciate all your content! I turned 50 last summer, and have 2 teenagers - the oldest will graduate high school in a few months. I have slowly but surely begun the process of editing our "things" and have realized my kids don't want the burden of this stuff! It has been so liberating and your videos and pep talks have definitely helped along the way😊 TFS all your stories and ideas, they help more than you probably know❤️

[@rebekahbryant2227]

Everything in our house molded over the summer last year. We went in and got rid of everything but a few things, and I have this regret relief 😅

[@debrastorgaard6046]

I’m pulling out my beautiful set of dishes that I put away when I had babies and didn’t want them broken. Thank you Dawn!

[@eddiebeckyscott7224]

Hi Dawn, your comments today about every day being special, had a profound effect on me. I’ve always been so worried about “my stuff” and it getting broken or saving it for a special occasion, that I’ve become crazy about preserving it! After hearing your words about enjoying every day as a special day, I was in tears about my past behavior about nonsensical, non important stuff. Thank you for your words today. I really appreciate it! So sorry for your car getting broken in to, but I love your attitude about it! It is still just stuff! God Bless you!

[@amandavandoorn6477]

We had a full set of beautiful China from my great grandmother. When nobody wanted that said, I‘s asked my mother who was holding onto it to give me two pieces of the serving pieces so that I had them but didn’t have to take the whole set. Mom thought it was a great idea and gave everybody to pieces for their house for each grand or great grandchild (small saucer and plate or such for candy). Everyone got something that they could use daily, but not so much as to overwhelm. The plates were given to church for families in need.

[@deannadickerson9505]

I’m so sorry someone broke into your vehicle. I’m so thankful you all are okay. My question is- who steals buckets of seashells? 🤷🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️

[@feliciafernandez155]

I’m so sorry that happened to you guys, Dawn. I appreciate the fresh perspective of using things like we should and love the people in our lives ❤️

[@rebekahbratton793]

I’ve actually been thinking about this a lot over the last couple of days. We rent our house and have had to be out of the house for 11 days now due to water issues. In those 11 days, I have gone back for some food and clothes but that’s about it. I’m now beginning to be surprised at all we’ve lived without. Although I miss our home, I’m thankful to be with my family in a nice home away from home.

[@conniesoares157]

Bummer for the break in of your car but glad there was nothing of true value taken. You are so right on using things and not saving things!

[@kristen2646]

My grandma made me a quilt for my high school graduation using material that my mom wore as a child. Im an eternal klutz who spills, so I have kept it in a box. After she died, I continued not using it because it cannot be replaced by her. Lately, I have felt ready to cuddle up in it with the intention of caring for it by not eating around it etc. Thank you for sharing your ideas in this video!

[@joanneperry8021]

Use that quilt, it will be a hug from your Grandmother every day...and quilts are generally really sturdy...they are three layers and lots of stitching! When they get worn, find a quilter to repair them....not every quilt is a museum piece but they are strong enough for every day.

[@pegballou9629]

I make quilts. I’ve made one for most of my grandchildren and told them they are intended to be used not hung up and displayed. That’s the whole purpose of a quilt.

[@anaalves3658]

My husband has been on the hunt for super thin walled juice glasses for years!!! We look in antique and second hand stores in every country we visit. He finally found 1 that met his criteria in Paris, it sat in a cupboard for ages because it was so special to him, the first time he used it got broken when our beloved cat jumped on the table and knocked it over. It took him a while to get over it, but the cat was not hurt and that was what we focused on. He now has a set of 4 new juice glasses, also from Paris, they get used all the time and if they break at least we got to enjoy them 😊. I am also burning the nice smelling candles 😂

[@kimberlywalker8985]

I’m so sorry that happened to you !! 🥺 Really love how you turned it around and the quote 💕

[@alongtheway3840]

love your perspective, you've got a very uplifting and insightful perspective, thank you for sharing

[@starbrightblue4936]

My car was broken into in broad daylight with my work tote on the back seat. It must have looked like a handbag cause someone smashed the window and took it. It was upsetting but I had to laugh at the fact all they got was my dirty lunch dishes! 😆