Furniture

Sometimes we have too much furniture.  There are pieces taking up space, unused.  If Great Aunt Sophie's tweed recliner was given to you when you were first setting up a household, but now you decorate with modern-style furnishings, you have options.  Ask another family member if he needs it.  Sell it on Craig's List as there are many college students and new couples needing pieces.  Donate it to a charity such as Salvation Army or Goodwill.

"But I've had that desk since I was ten!" could be another argument against unloading a large piece of furniture.  If you don't love it or it isn't useful to you, it's OK to take a photo of it and let it go.

Family heirloom pieces are difficult.  If you got stuck with it or truly wanted the rocking chair at the time, it doesn't mean you have to keep it forever.  This feeling of responsibility for old things appears to be a rather new phenomenon.  An elderly family member of ours had treasures in the upstairs of her garage.  When asked what to do with those pristine vintage suitcases and other antiques, her comment was, "Just throw them away.  They're old."  There was no sentimentality.  We were appalled and a family member rescued them for her home which is tastefully decorated with antiques.  Again, this is a difficult dilemma and must be met head-on with your individual situation.  The bottom line is, don't feel trapped to care for things you don't really like or need.

I donated a desk yesterday that I bought at a craft fair in 1986.  It has served its time with me and one of my children.  Now someone else can benefit and we have more space.