Keep Your Memories!

This is my collection of broken ceramics that I had been carrying around for years, unable to part with.  A few became pencil holders, but I couldn’t find enough jobs for them as their numbers grew.  My solution was to preserve them in a formal photograph. 

I think we resist throwing things away because our beloved objects are the anchors to the memories they hold.  We are afraid to throw away our objects because we risk losing the memory.  Well, a photograph takes up a lot less space.  And a digital photograph takes up even less. 

If you are looking to get rid of a lot of items, consider making a photo book to keep on your shelf.  You’ll always have your cherished objects close at hand, much more accessible than that box buried in the basement.    

clothing into rags

My flannel bed sheets from college had a lot of sentimental value, but they were full of holes.  As kitchen rags, I get to enjoy their color, texture, and the memories they remind me of more frequently than if I had stuffed them in a save box. 

Favorite worn-out jersey knit t-shirts are cut up and stuffed into an old tissue box that I keep by my bed.  Corporate logos clutter my mind, so I like to cover them with small drawings or pretty textures snipped from magazines. 

A box of rags made from old clothes is great to have in the kitchen or garage for spills, straining, and messes that might ruin your nicer towels.  I spend less on paper towels.   

Wash your rags along with your regular laundry.  If they get too soiled, they’re easy to toss.  For easy cutting, buy a pair of scissors that you use exclusively for fabric and label them as such. 

personal gallery

Postcards, sketches, small drawings, and precious objects can all make a powerful impact when they are taken seriously and allowed to shine.   

Matting, framing, mounting, and playful hanging can transform your “save drawer” into a personal and meaningful gallery. 

I had a lot of artwork but not a lot of wall-space in my rooms.  This unusual wall was perfect for sharing my odd treasures.  Every trip up and down these stairs brought joy, visual stimulation, and a reminder of my friendships.