Armed with my 1-bedroom floor plan and the knowledge that I was really going through with this project, I headed home to my 4-bedroom single family home. Although I won’t be taking up permanent residence in Paul Spring, I want to put myself in situations that will force me to experience the feelings of making this transition. I felt that the first step was deciding what belongings I could take with me.
I prepared a video that shows you the primary items I selected.
It turns out that I only have the space to take about 12 items of furniture and an assortment of other necessities to make this transition. The good news is that the things I would take with me are really the belongings that my family uses on a daily basis. Most of the remaining furniture and belongings don’t really get much use.
Although I might get along fine without the hundreds of items that won’t be going with me, I am struck with the emotions and memories associated with each of them. I will explore this in much greater detail over the next few posts. I will share my thoughts and potential solutions for this challenging transition.
To help, I have invited the membership of the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) to provide me with suggestions and guidance. I will be sharing their insights in future entries.
Steve,
What a unique idea! I’m curious to see as you associate with the residents, if you find the women had a more difficult time “letting go” of their many possessions than the men did.
I will follow your progress! Take Care!
Joann Guariglia Total Organizing Solutions (941)628-6957 www.HelpYouToOrganize.com Too Blessed to be Stressed!
Steve, Remember, you are only going to be cooking breakfast and lunch. Unless cooking is a hobby, only take the stuff you need for breakfast and lunch. You might re-think the crock pot unless you cook stuff in there for lunch.
Also, the difference between full and queen size bed is 6” in width and a little more length. Today’s headboards are the same for both size beds.
As you are finding, it’s tough to let go regardless of age.
Charna Kinneberg, RN, MBA Senior Transitions, Inc. (410) 515-1199 Assisting seniors and their loved ones in lifestyle transitions. President Elect NASMM Founding Member, NASMM
Your idea of doing a video of your belongings got me thinking about my own possessions. Since my kids don’t know the “history” or “connection” of why these items are important to me, perhaps making a video while I’m still alive that describe each of the items (ex, a raku ibex from Taos, a beautiful bowl made by my friend’s son as a way of recovering from a tragic accident, etc.)would help my children as they “sort” my stuff after I’m gone or, if I move to much smaller quarters in a retirement community. The point is, it’s not just “stuff,” it’s what can enrich a life by “its” story.
Good luck in your new adventure!