Trust me,10-15mins a day in one room will get you somewhere.keep reminding yourself you’re not getting rid of your mom, the memories of her will always be in your mind and heart!

Within a 9 month period our family lost my middle son (aged 36), and my husband (aged 74). I know what you mean by saying that everything is precious because it was your mom's. I went through that while trying to get rid of things. I urged mementos onto the two remaining sons. They took some, but not much. They could see that I was sad about that. Finally, Son #3 said, "Mom, I'm not going to forget these guys, I don't need their stuff". To me, that was so profound. Yes, as long as I have my right mind, they will not be forgotten. Time has passed, I have grieved, the kids have grieved and I am in a different place with their belongings. I recently cleared out a storage tub of their clothing that I had saved. The other thing that has helped me is the "it's our turn" concept. NOT a childlike mememe, but it is, indeed, MY turn to be alive. Yes, it was awful to have a son die young, and his turn was too short. But I don't need to keep all his stuff that he had while it was HIS turn to be alive. My husband had a lot of stuff that doesn't fit into my current lifestyle. Naturally, while we were married (45 years), we fit our interests into our shared home. With the overwhelming amount of belongings you have to deal with, I think you should pick one thing to keep from each "category" like clothing, kitchen, personal (maybe a purse or jewelry) that was your mom's and then call around and see if anyone in your area has endured a house fire or other disaster who could use all the household stuff. Your donation would be a blessing in the truest sense of the word.

One room at a time Make a quilt out of some of her clothes, rest donate One hour a day Ask your sister to come over and help Donate or sell large items first, then it looks like you made progress Best of luck, you can do this xoxo

Don’t be embarrassed. I’m actually in awe at your honesty and willingness to be so vulnerable. That is a sign of a very STRONG person. We are all struggling in some way, shape or form. That’s being human. Nobody is perfect. If they seem that way, they are masking or carrying something. Take care ❤

Something that has helped me let go of things is taking pictures so it still feels like you have the item but it’s not taking up space. Also having a memory box for the really special items.

Your mum herself said she needed to clear some stuff. You will always have the memories. Every mum wants to see their children live their lives. She's proud of who you are. Much love🤗🇬🇧

Mam, I am watching this sitting on my living room couch which is long and I literally have only enough room for me to sit and stand. The couch is clear to sit on but no room in the floor. I do my Bible study after I pray for all I look out among the large pile and past that see my mom's beautiful china closet and I tell myself, when mom left this to me, she didn't intend for my place to be like this. OMGOSH my life and your life is the same. My Mom passed sooner than was expected and I was the only one to clean out her house. I told her ideas I had on how I could but it she was at thrilled the day I told her I crunched numbers and how I can buy out my brother and sister bring that she didn't want upgrades used with her money she wanted it sold as is. I also lived there and it was neat as a pin upstairs. When she passed and the executor was suppose to give me a full year after she passed to get out. The other siblings wanted to make big bucks in the house which weeded me out as I did not have $800,000 plus. My sister told my Dad she could not handle packing up my mom's house and my brother living in NJ has health issues. I was the only one packing up 31 years. I was told by my Mom that she told the executor to give me a year if I couldn't buy. I got 7 months. My room was the last time pack. All i could find to move to that I was able to afford was a very tiny 1 BR apartment on the 3rd floor with a disabled leg. Everything was sentimental to me. In the basement my Mom had boxes market for yardsale and flee market as before she became ill she and I were going to do the block sale that next summer so I was happy for those boxes bring marked I didn't open. I will not go into the nitty gritty now. Mam, GIVE YOURSELF GRACE! I am not the one to give suggestions looking at my huge pile in the living room and sleeping on one side of the bed with a mound on the other. If you have the funds available to you, call an organizing company as suggested to me. They would not come because they only tackle homes but, call them. Seek out one run by Christians that are bonded as I know your. Faith based individual. They give you an estimate, they set up a schedule with you, you work together or they will work alone. If you don't want to go that route the one lady was very gracious she told me to set up a box for donation and one to save one for trash and the trash one was a free box on the curb. I am going to start this weekend. I want to have my dad over for breakfast after church I want to have a 4th of July get together and have my niece over and Sunday my ladies Bible study. I work 10 hours at my job we are in our 2nd summer without AC here in VA we are in the same heat wave. I cond home exhausted from work mainly from the heat. In our attiic at work it was 94 the other day. Being the only female in my dept the guys do not care if I get sick the boss doesn't care. The organizing woman told me to set a timer. Pick one room and set the timer for 30 min or an hour. She said not to rush it's not a race. She said more than likely when the timer goes off I will be so into it I will want to keep going. I cannot recall your name but I will look it up and I will put you on my prayer list in my fridge. I will really pray for you too. You are my sister in Christ and we literally have the same task before us. I have tears in my eyes right now. Our Mom's are together in heaven and they are cheering for us in life in general. I need to clean up my place so I do not have bad allergies from the dust soon. My name you will see when the video is released I will see if you have an Instagram page and I will DM you too. I need to get to work. It's not my happy place but my office is tidy and organized and I say, oh Jesus please help me at home. I use to be a neat freak like my Mom but, this is how grief looks. Blessings and love, Rebekah XXOO

My mom passed in March, I know how hard this can be. I have to keep telling myself that my mom lives on in my heart and my memories not in her collections and trinkets. She would never have wanted to see you weighed down by this task or so emotionally burdened. Find a few different charities that represent who your mom was, did she love animals, did she love her church, did she love the 4H group and start donating her stuff to those organizations that represent who she was. Your mom is an angel in heaven now and these items no longer weigh her wings down. She doesn’t want this for you either. Your mom is not the sum of all her stuff. Hang in there. Forget DIY videos and more spends at the dollar store. Make piles of stuff and create videos of what you are donating in memory of your mom. Tell us about it and then let it go.

I lost my daddy 18 months ago. He was the second of 3 losses we had in 10 months. I am just now able to go through the treasures that I have saved of his. I am the only one to look at and pick out things to keep. I have 2 storage units that have a lot of furniture. I have been able to donate furniture to young couples that attend the college he went to. This was something that he did while living and it is definitely easier knowing that it is something that he did too. My best friend made quilts out of his shirts and jeans. She made 2 quilts for me, one for each of my children, one for each of my grandchildren, and one for each of my daddy’s siblings. I know how you feel. I am getting by one day at a time. Hang in there sweet girl. It will happen eventually. My home looks just like yours right now. It is also ok to cry, laugh, talk to your mom, express all of the emotions. Take it one object at a time, one day at a time.

Stop beating yourself up.. don’t look at the big picture. Break it down to one room at a time.. never be embarrassed.. we all have our struggles.. you are a beautiful, kind person. You need to remember that!! ❤

Praying for you as you work through your grief. Take it slow and at a pace that feels right for you. When my father in law passed, it helped to take pictures of things that reminded us of him but felt that we could let go. Then we matched up a picture of the item with a picture of him with the item. It really helped us to pair the items with the memories. We put them in an album to look back on and smile. Sending lots of love and encouragement your way. ❤

When my mom died I did the same thing. I felt like I was throwing her away. But I finally realized that I wasn’t throwing her away that she will always be with me. I kept a few things that really had strong memories of her. She loved to sew and she loved working with children so I donated all of her clothes, fabric and her sewing machine to a school that had a club for fashion shows in her memory.

My husband passed 5 years ago. I understand with all the stuff. Things I'm doing or have done. The clothing have someone make a big blanket, and it's like he is hugging me. Things that you can take a picture of, do that, and send it out to put into an album. You will always have that memory. Things that you can craft with keep and only give yourself a timeline. If not done, it's out. I'm not sure if you've heard of junk journaling. That's what I'm into right now. And i'm using all of his written music to junk journal with. I hope this helps lots of love. ❤ With your thrifting, I wouldn't thrift anymore. Until you've actually put everything up to sell. That will motivate you to get it done so you can thrift some more.

My husband passed almost a year ago. The way I went through his things is if I was going to use it, then keep it, but if I wouldn’t, then get it out. You’ll end up keeping the most important things that mean the most. If it’s craft items, use it or give it to someone who will. You’ll have your own schedule. Just take it a little at a time. Small, achievable goals is a great start! I’ve been able to clear out 2 storage units, the garage, and I’ve made a lot of space throughout my property. Just take things how you can.

Oh Kieren - I am so sorry. I do understand your pain - I truly do. I lost my Mom very unexpectedly in Mar of 2020. It took MONTHS to sort and sift through her things. My house was a storage unit for over a year because it was just overwhelming. I was an only child and my kids are grown and gone. It was tough. And then a very dear friend said something to me that was so profound...and really hit me hard. She said "your Mom would not want this for you. She would want you to live your life with peace and love - full of memories of her....not her physical things overtaking your life." And she was right. I needed to hear that. It was the turning point for me. I started spending a minimum of 15 minutes every day just sorting and making decisions...and carrying things to the car every day for donations. It may not be a car full a day - but the stuff was in there so when I left the house, I could also drop things off. Start with the things you KNOW are donations, the things you mentioned in the video - that is a quick task and it will be out of your space. That was the biggest key for me - removing things as I made decisions...junk, donations, pass alongs to people I knew could use or enjoy things I did not want to keep...and was left with the things that really were special to me. It was a LONG road - and I did it. And you can do it.

My Mom was a pack rat, the three floor house was packed full of stuff especially craft stuff and yarn. I found out that I could work for about 1 1/2 hours before my brain became fried. Find your amount of time and stick to that each day.

I wish you could see my house! I grew up very poor, so I hold on to everything. I wish I was there to help! I've cried myself to sleep over it. Start with one room only and work on it a little everyday. I recommend good music also. ❤

It's okay not to be okay. I went through the same thing when my mom passed. It's not easy, but with time, it's gets better. Take it one day at a time and one room at a time. I'm praying for you every day.

One bite at a time, is how you eat an elephant!! One box at a time. Do what you can see first, like Dining Room. You got this Girl, you CAN do it!!!

Baby girl sending you a big hug!

Start in the room you spend the most time in. First get rid of the garbage then separate into keep-donate-sell. Put the donate in your car and drop it off when your car is full so you don’t waste time going there everyday. Set a timer for 30 minutes for the first day. You will be amazed how much you will get done in a week and also how much more time you end up wanting to devote on the project. You are amazing, transparent and good-hearted. Thank you for sharing something a lot of us struggle with.❤

Take 1 day at a time. Deal with the stuff first before adding to your life. I know how you feel my mom passed very sudden as well. I had stuff everywhere, I couldn’t do it, I couldn’t function. 1 box, 1 area, 1 day at a time, set goals. Allow time for a box to take a day. I’m not sure how to make easier. It’s been 2 years now, I have 2 small piles left. ❤

A Hoarder's Heart on youtube is fantastic decluttering inspiration as she discusses her own grief and trauma as she slowly goes through sentimental items.

Remember ONE bite of eating an elephant eventually removes the elephant. This what has helped me in the past: Pick the hardest room first. This is the only room you focus on. You pick the room. Used a timer for 15-30 minutes at a time. Increase when you are able. Then quit. Can restart later in the day or next day. Just get into a routine. Make piles for donate, toss, keep, undecided Take pictures of undecided items and put aside items for a period of time. I had to give up a loved large doll collection and it was the memories and pictures that allowed me to let go of the dolls. The head work mantra included "I was passing on my joy to another that made me feel better. I still look at those pictures occasionally and the joy is still there. I hope this will be some help to you. My prayers are with you. God Bless

Consider medication. I've accepted that I have ADHD, which keeps my mind busy with ideas and DIY projects. And I had to accept that I may not be able to do everything I want to do. For me, I found the right meds to help me focus and, more importantly, get moving. Self-talk has also helped. Actually asking myself out loud "What would happen if I threw this away?" And most of the time, I can honestly say "Nothing. I probably won't ever think of this thing again." Take photos. Keep the photo and the memory, not the thing. Start small. I used to start cleaning in the bathroom, because it's smallest. Pick a one-square yard area and just do that. When you've done that area, take time to look at it and allow yourself to feel good about having done it. Watch cleaning channels. Midwest Magic Cleaning is a good one. Very encouraging. You can do it. Just go slowly. Take your time. Feel your feelings. Love yourself.

You are always such an organizer. Go through the stuff, one bag or box at a time. Start by separating the into groups of keep, donate and throw away. When you start feeling overwhelmed just walk away from it for a while. Once you get started, you will find that it will be much easier. Do your living areas first and especially your bedroom. A good night’s sleep is very important. Only do one room at a time until you finish it. Don’t go from one room to another. Keep anything you are not sure about so that you won’t have any regrets later. You can always give it away later.

My dear, the best way 10:35 to start is tackle 1 box or bag at a time . Clean off a chair or table at a time. My mom passed away unexpectedly 18 years ago. I have one wall i dedicate to my mom. I hung a box like cube shelf that i keep a few items of my moms and a few angel figurines with a cross to remind me of her and know she is in heaven with Jesus watching down on us❤. Donate clothes to the homeless shelters. If you have a lot of stuff you want to keep of your moms, get a glass cabinet and limit yourself to whatever you can fit in it. Donate the rest or you can make things out of some items to give family members to so they can have a fond memory of her also. Just take it 1 day at a time and 1 container or box at a time.

Don't beat yourself up! You're doing the best you can. Just work on things for 15 minutes a day. If you can keep to that schedule you'll be surprised at how much you can get done. It took me a couple of years to get rid of most of my mother's things after her passing. I still have some of her things. You don't have to get rid of everything. I kept a lot of things that had meaning for her. This will get better...remember 15 minutes a day. This summer will be your best friend in this effort. Praying for you!🙏

My mom passed when I was 24. We were rushed to clean out her house and get it on the market. Therefore I kept A-LOT of items cause I didn’t have time to decide. 20 years later I still have to much but have been able to start donating and remember that her hobbies are not my hobbies and that is ok. One room at a time. One item at a time. Start with 15 mins at a time. Baby steps. If you go into a room that feels overwhelming pick a bin, take it to the couch pick and show and go thru it.

So sorry for your loss. I find that taking a picture of special things helps. After things have calmed down, you can print them out and tell the stories about the things in a scrapbook. It can be done on your computer which would save from making new clutter. I wish you peaceful thoughts and send hugs!

The real treasures are your memories of your mom- not her things.

I would start with one room and work a little at a time as to not get overwhelmed.

I'm in New York if we lived close to each other I would be happy to help. I know what your going through

I totally understand where your coming from. I lost my dad when I was 11 my mom at 26. I had the same problem. I try to think of the happy memories with them instead of the stuff. ❤

It took me 5 yrs to finish cleaning out my Moms things , I started in the room that my family sits , one box at a time , at 1st. Then do 2 and so on.

Courage, my love🙏❤. You are not alone. I have the same room with my Mom and Dad's things plus my 'collected' things. I would look at it all and either cry or be totally overwhelmed... become paralysed and then do nothing. The strategy that has made a difference for me goes like this. I take a Dollar Tree dish pan and fill it up. If I need to look at the items, reminisce, I allow myself that time. And then I decide if I'm going to relocate, give away to someone or donate. The dish pan doesn't hold a whole lot, but it's something that I can complete in usually 10-20 minutes. That's all I do in one day, and it's enough because I'm doing something. At the end of it I make a point of saying out loud to myself, "Well done. It's not where I want to be, but I accomplished this task today. I'm headed in the right direction and that's what matters. Slow and steady wins the race." I really do say this to myself because I need to remember that I need to give myself grace and encouragement . Inside this encouragement will be your courage to carry-on.👍🙏❤

Aww,Just take your time sweet girl.just a little bit each day.Dont beat yourself up.Might be best to just stay in one room until it's done.❤

I also have a hard time with stuff. I found when I went through my Grandma's stuff that I had to go through things multiple times. Grief is hard in itself alone. Do what you need to do to make your main space yours and liveable, even if it gets moved to one or two rooms that you don't use. Set a timer for 30 minutes to do it in chunks.

What helps me organize is buying the black totes with the yellow lids from Lowe's. Then I can put everything in there, then move all the totes to the outside walls of the room. Then start going through them one tote at a time.

Do only one room at a time, it's less overwhelming. Start on your bedroom. When you donate things, take pictures so you'll have those things to remember. It's a part of grief to go through this, very normal. It will get easier but you'll always miss her! That's the price you pay for a deep love! Best wishes!

You need too have a yard sale I know it's hard. But you get it done. My prayers.

You’ve gotten some excellent advice. Mine is to remember that SHE was special- her stuff is just stuff. Easy to say, hard to live. Praying for you, dear!

I'm with youuuuu . I lost 2 brothers 💔 1 my twin to covid. And I packed my elderly mom's house and theirs!🏠 . My mom is with my last brother now living in vegas. Constantly asking about her things!!! I thought she'd get her own placethere but shes gonna stay with him .... .... I feel you! Also, I drive school kids, too. God help us this summer ☀️. Sing , breathe deeply 🙏... I'm gonna see who can barter with to help me. Huggggggssss!

Hello! I have only caught you a couple of times, and the 1st time was you out thrifting, talking about your love of thrifting with your mom. Maybe? You could have a huge thrift sale at your home - have friends help you, maybe honor your mom that way ❤ Idk of course but I felt like God gave me this message for you

You are such an amazing person. Don't be embarrassed, most teachers have a hard time letting things go. Prayers to you for strength and perseverance. One day at a time.

When my Mom passed.I went through things. Some were so hard to part with. I started to take pictures of her things and created a memory album. Wrote little note next to picture of the memory. Could be clothing, furniture anything of hers you treasured. This was in 1997. I still occasionally take the album down (like on her birthday) to look at it. Don’t get down on yourself. Keep your good memories close.💖

Take it one day at a time, one hour, one minute. Don't try to do everything in one day. I know exactly how you are feeling. I struggle with getting rid of stuff that belonged to my mother in law. Some of it my father in law built. Cherish each item, spend a moment or two with it, cry, take a picture of it and then decide if you can let it go. You should just take your time. ❤❤❤

I have seen where people have taken pictures of some of the stuff and wrote down stories and it's made it easier to let go of the material stuff and not feel like dishonoring anyone or anything. Also see if friends or family members want some of the stuff so that you know it'll be cared for.

And… for me I was fortunate to get a Hosta plant years earlier (she had no possessions by the end of her life) and I get to see it come back up every year in my yard - I treasure that 1 thing 😊

I agree about clothes into quilts. What about putting pictures, handwritten letters, and other papers you want to keep and then putting them on your computer, laptop, etc.? Then you can send any or all to friends and family.

Grief can't be rushed and there's no right or wrong to handle it. Take your time. Take one spot, one corner at a time...and let yourself grieve as needed.

Cas from Clutterbug is awesome! You can take pictures of anything you're passing on to help you remember later. You can try making it fun...filling a box a day, or filling a container for keepsakes...

Mentally something that could be helpful is to sit and make a list of things your momma would potentially say to you in this season. What advice would she be giving to you amidst the struggle of decluttering her things? How do you think she would have tackled it all? I also second having your sister come to help. There’s no need to do this alone. 💛

I absolutely understand what you are dealing with. I feel deja Vu listening to you. I lost my mom in 2011and I took her dog as well. When I lost Heidi ( mom's dog), in 2018 I felt like I lost my mom all over again. I suggest you take lots of pictures of "the stuff" . That way you have the memories without clutter. I hope that helps.❤

If I lived closer to you I would try to help you. I'm 72 but I've been there a few times.❤❤❤❤🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

one box at a time. Photograph important memories and make scrapbook, full of memories but not need the thing. Also I used zoom with friends to chat to and have company while working through. It was too embaresing to have someone in perrson but needed company. We love you and admire being so brave, I know you don't fel it but you are amazing

❤️ It’s a struggle to grieve. My heart goes out to you because I’ve gone through this multiple times. It’s hard to decide what to do with all the stuff. And you lost your precious Mom and your precious pet Finn in a very compressed time period. This is hard! You’re blessed to be free of your job right now. Maybe you could sit down with a calendar and plan on paper how much time per day you can devote to dealing with these things. Reward yourself after you finish a task for meeting goals. Buy yourself some flowers or something you’ve been wanting. Nursing homes could probably use some of your Mom’s clothing. Daycare centers could use craft supplies. Animal shelters need used bath towels for bathing animals. They also need cleaning supplies. Think of giving these donations as putting little bits of your Mom’s goodness and generosity out into the Universe. I think your Mom would be proud of you for your courage. I love the idea of photographing things, as some here have suggested. Your Mom will always be with you on a spiritual level. My own Mom has been gone since 1977, yet she remains alive in my memory. ❤️ Sending love from Iowa, ~ Lori Parrish Niemi ~

EVERYONE has a room like this first of all. I'm not an expert in anything but don't empty anything of your mom's things before you are ready. I would start with neutral ground things I like to call. Yes be kind to yourself and the people that wants to help you make decisions you don't feel you can deal with just yet. Lean on your family and friends that understand your plight.😊😊❤❤. Maybe do projects that commemorate your mom and memories. Like pillows with blankets and clothes of your mom and alike.Hodgepoge pics and book titles with good memories. Thank you for sharing with us. I feel a real connection to you.❤

Managers of Their Homes MOTH by Steve and Teri Maxwell is a great way to set and keep a schedule. It’s designed for homeschoolers, but the tips are doable and practical. Praying for you!

My mom was a hoarder and she developed dementia. My daughters and I had the task of clearing out her house. I understand what you are going through. Hugs and take one step at a time

My daughter in law passed what will be 2 years ago next month. Our son is not in the picture, so everything fell on me. I still have my garage, 2 rooms, and a stall in our barn with her stuff. I want to make the right choices of things to keep for the kids. It does feel overwhelming and depressing. My therapist said definitely to set a timer when going through everything. I feel your pain! 😢❤️

I’m so,so, sorry. I didn’t know that your Mom had passed away. You have my deepest sympathy. My heart aches for you. ❤you.

I completely understand the struggle you are going through. It has been 5 years since my mom passed and it is still so fresh. Live and prayers for you!

Hi, I completely understand where you are coming from. My mom passed away some years ago, but I still struggle with letting her items go. I have had to look deep down and ask myself, "Would my mom want me to live in such clutter?". The answer is no. It would break her heart to think that I feel overwhelmed because of her stuff taking uo so much space. I have recently been going through her things. Only keeping a few small treasures and taking pictures of the other knick knacks that I am donating. That way, I can still connect a memory of my mom to them, but they are in a small album, not taking up too much space. My heart goes out to you. Your mom will be ok with you relieving yourself from the burden of material objects. My heart goes out to you. Sending hugs and prayers.❤

I think you would do great reselling online, there are people who appreciate the same items that you do. You have great taste!

HUGS to you!!! When my dad passed, I first got rid of anything that was clearly garbage. I then got rid of practical items that were recently purchased but had no use for. For example, the mattress pad topper I had purchased for his hospital bed and the bedding. Everything else I put away to go over later. It wasn't under my brother was moving in that I finally went through things and got rid of things like toothpaste. I got rid of clothing he hadn't worn in years, keeping a few pieces that he wore recently. With a whole room of things, I would honestly go in with a laundry basket, fill it up, and then take it out of that room and go through it in a more comfortable place. Making piles helped: trash, save, donate. Honestly, donating was hard as I didn't want anyone to have his things. Sometimes throwing those things away was easier because it was like I was burying them myself, if that makes since. One day at a time is key! Do one thing, and then do another the next day.

I’m so sorry to hear of the passing of your Mom. My heart goes out to you. Just take your time. Don’t be afraid to ask your close friends for help. I will be praying for you, that The Lord will heal your broken heart. 🙏🏼🩵🙏🏼

So very sorry for your loss. I lost my mom 25 years ago and it does get better with time. Cherish your memories of her and don’t feel bad about shedding tears, it is part of the healing process. One step at a time. God loves you and cares about your grief. 😂

I recommend taking photos of sentimental items and then maybe think of things in categories. Try to give yourself a realistic limit on how many things of each category you can keep. Example: 40 housewares items, 12 pcs of clothing etc. It will help you as you sort through things to just choose the stuff you really love. I love the idea of having a quilt made from the favorite clothing items. If you have a trusted friend or family member can help you get through some of enormity of it that would help. When my dad passed, I went through something very similar. I can say that each year, I'd pare his things down more and more. I now only have a wooden box of his items, some pictures and writings and a few sculptures he made. I never thought I'd get there. He passed in 2004 and it took almost 10 years to get to this point. In regards to taking photos. There are photo printers such as an HP printer. The photos have a sticker back. You can take photos of the really special things and make a memory journal of all of the memories. That would be super therapeutic and not leave you with the guilt of holding on to something you truly don't need. Think of it as some very needy family could really appreciate or use this. (That always helps me with decluttering). I'm a therapist and I echo those who encourage you to be gentle and kind with yourself. Your mother played an enormous role in your life. It's normal to hurt this badly and it takes time to heal. You are on the way and talking about it and admitting the struggle are tremendous first steps ❤☺️🌷

First, give yourself some grace. Second, scheduling an hour a day is great. Some days you might finish the hour and feel like doing more - other days that hour might be your limit. And think about what your mom would want for you guys. After cleaning out two houses of deceased family members, we sat our 4 grown kids down and released them from retaining any of our possessions. We explained that the things we owned were liked by us, were what we could afford at the time of purchase, or maybe even not liked that much. They have been relieved of any obligation to keep our things.

Don't feel bad, I lost my mom in Oct 2023. So we had to go through her house too. It was really hard for us. So I know where you are coming from. I will pray for you to get through it and have peace of mind.

Get 3 large boxes from lowes or home depot , SAVE, DONATE, TRASH. SCEDULE DONATION pickup if they do that in your area. If you have a garage that can be the staging area for the donate and trash boxes so it is out of your immediate area. Spend 1/2 hr or so a day increase if it feels doable to you as you are going through things.. Maybe enlist help from your family, sister, husband so your not doing it all alone. Sending you hugs and prayers and strength.

I’m sorry you’re going through this. When my mom passed I was paralyzed with decision making too. Over time I made a few guidelines for myself to keep things. First thing I did was pick her favorite pieces of clothes and shipped them to an Etsy vendor who made quilts for me, my father and sister. Knowing we can see her favorite clothes, we were able to let go of the rest. We tried to come up with a number (for us it was 10-15) of collectables/keepsakes of her to keep and then allowed ourselves to donate the rest. We also picked a certain number (up to you) of kitchen items, jewelry, decorations, etc. That really helped me and my sister. We knew we had to make choices but knowing we could keep a set amount of items helped us prioritize which memories were the most important to each of us. My last “tip” is when it gets hard asking yourself if your mom would want you living in a home packed with things instead of packed love and memories. That helped me rationalize that I’m holding myself back and I knew my mom would not want that for me. I’m not sure this helps but at the very least, know you’re not the only one who has gone through this exact thing ❤ one day at a time.

Hey darling! Hugs to you! 💜💜💜💜 I have watched you for years but don’t comment much. I lost my mom in 2020 and dad this past January and we had to clean out there house to sell it. It was hard. I know some people would object out I would organize it first in categories into bins or boxes etc. Then it would be easier to go through. Hubby and I just went through our keepsake bins in our closets. A couple years ago I go some bins kinda really just put the stuff in bins, kinda in categories but not really. Anyway I reorganized it even more and it helped I got rid of some from each in and then I was left with one whole empty bin. I think in order to let’s say getting rid of photos we might to have all photos in one place to be able to do that. It’s hard go through them away when you not sure if there more somewhere else if that makes since. When I took them out the other day to reduce they they weren’t organized so I put like stuff in each bins. Photos, keepsake clothing, baby stuff (my sons he is 36) Luckily we went through my parents stuff over last 10 yrs but by bit ( before they passed) and took out what we wanted so when we cleaned out the house recently to sell we just got rid of mist as we already took what we wanted years ago. I do have a ton of photos of theirs I have to go through little by little. Only keeping photo of people not of trees lol. Dad took lots of picture in their vacations so I don’t need scenery photos. Also what helps me is I do a halfies system. Meaning if I have two bins of photos I say to myself I can only keep one bin. So I go through then until I have reduced to one bin. Then that is it! I take a break for a day a week or a month if needed. Also maybe set up one shelf or small bookcase in your home with keepsakes if your mom to display. When that shelf or bookcase is full then that is it the rest needs to go. Only keep what fits in the container in this case being a book shelf. I also do things like this: I have a handkerchief from my great grandson and that all I have of hers so I put it in a frame with a picture of her as a memory and hung it in my craftroom. Do special things like that rather than having it in a box. And for stuff like Jewry gather up all the jewelry lay it out and decided in may only 5 pieces you want to keep. I hope this helps!! 👍💜👍💜👍💜

Remember one thing at a time, ie., one bite at a time! God bless you! ❤️❤️🙏🦊

I would start in your craft room so once it’s clean you always have an outlet to go to in between cleaning the rest of the house. Crafting is very much therapeutic. And, give yourself grace. You got this.❤

So sorry to hear about the loss of your Mom. First get rid of obvious trash and easy donations. Do Not start with trying to get rid of your Mom's stuff. Look up Dana K. White - she's got books tackling exactly these issues. Hang in there, you are not alone. Good luck.

Photograph some of the things then start to donate or sell. I know what the feelings are like around everything being a memory. My mom passed 20 years ago and I still have a few things “hanging around”. If it’s in a box or just thrown in a room the memories really aren’t being honoured.

I understand what you are going through but lost my mom and dad both First my mom 6 months later I lost my dad I took some of their clothes and cut them up into screws and sold them together and made a blanket that when I feel lonely I can cover up with that and feel some comfort😂❤

Hi, I'm a new subscriber. I've really been enjoying your creative organizer ideas. I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your mom. That's incredibly difficult to go through. I was very close with my mom too and lost her when I was 24, going on 25 back in 2006. It's still painful, knowing that she's not here and having to live without her. It's obvious that you really love your mom, and it's clear you need space and time to grieve. My best advice is to hold onto a few special items that are significant to you and good memories you share. You don't have to hold onto everything, and giving everything away would be difficult, so give yourself permission to hold onto a few special things. If you donate a bunch of stuff that doesn't serve you, that's ok. It can help to serve someone else. Instead of letting the stuff collect dust in your room, you can allow the stuff to have a new life by letting someone else benefit from it. This is all coming from someone who loves to collect. I'm very much a pack rat. I'm lucky to have a few of my mom's things still that provide lovely memories when I see them or touch them. If you hang onto everything, it will feel overwhelming. Don't let go of all of her, but I'm sure she wouldn't have wanted to burden you with all of her things. You deserve an organized, clutter-free home. I hope that helps, love, and hugs from Canada! ❤

Hugs to you. I think you and your sisters should get together and sort through things that have the most memories of your mom. Maybe certain clothes or items you remember growing up seeing your mom wear, cook with or certain items that bring the most memories of her. I would focus on organizing your house first before buying more and bringing more stuff into your home .I feel it is important to have support and others helping you make decisions with your mom's stuff.

I've been in your shoes. Nothing to be embarrassed about. I was given the suggestion to photograph the object and write the memories on it. Then save it in a folder. Then you will always have the memories. Then you can give it to another family member.

You will always have the memories even if you don't have the material things. I learned that after my mom passed and a family member took everything No one can take your memories. I write my mom a letter about how I am feeling, and then I tear it up without reading it I find that helped me greatly. One day at a time, a few minutes a day. God Bless you. You are strong, you are beautiful, you are loved.

You are loved ❤️❤️❤️ You are human ❤️❤️❤️ You will get through this ❤️❤️❤️

I lost my father in 2016 and it still breaks my heart till this day 😢. It's OK to cry to feel the way you do. I did not have the privilege to sort out any of my father's belongings, but if I would have I would have taken it one day at a time and chosen only what meant alot to my father. Your truly strong and deep down you will find the close to perfect way to sort & keep what meant alot to your mom. Thank you for sharing sending you lots of hugs ❤❤❤

When you’re ready. Before you give the items away maybe you can take a picture of the items that are holding you back from letting them go? That way you can look at the item without the item taking up so much space and also store the pictures in a photo album that way you have them in one place.

My husband passed away month ago, and I am missing him so much. I donated some of his things already, but there are so many things I cannot even look through yet. It sounds like you are forming a good plan to make small goals. I take around 2 bags every once in a while to the thrift store. Maybe give yourself a certain number of items to gather at a time, like 10-20 things a t a time. I am also a teacher and feel like summer is the time to get it done. Remember that someone else who is needy can use her things - that's how I like to think about it for my hubby. I know that he will always be in my heart and in my mind - he is not his "stuff", but of course I will save special things. You may also want to look into grief counseling. I have joined a couple of Facebook support groups for widows, and there are most likely ones for those who have lost parents. You are grieving, and that takes time, so don't pressure yourself to do DIYs now. Just my opinion. Hugs to you. 💜

Grief is always hard and changes over time. Holding you in the light as you start to make these decisions. One thing that helped with my grandma’s things was that she always wanted her items to have a purpose. If I couldn’t give them a purpose in my life, she would MUCH rather have it be given or shared with others, so it made it happy to think we were honoring her as well. Take each day as it comes. ❤ The other thing that helped is on hard days, I would set very minimum goals and be okay with it. Some days will be better and easier to do more.

I went through this. As time goes the things became less of who they were. I began realizing they are a part of me and the stuff was easier to let go. Give yourself grace and time. You are still grieving. Hugs

I am so grateful your making this video. My mom passed 3 days after Christmas and we live in her house because I was here caregiver. It is so hard to get rid of her things. She made everything in this house. Her clothes are the hardest things for me, I don't want to donate in fear they will toss it out! I have a lot of vintage dishes and nic nacks! I am on the crazy bus with you.

Sending you a big hug! I struggle with organizing "the stuff" too. It seems I've inherited the procrastination gene from my dad :) Hang in there.

I had this issue when I lost my mom. I took the shirt off hers that was her favorite and had a memory bear made and some others to have a quilt made and the rest unless I wanted to wear I donated. Her other stuff I took a cedar chest of hers and filled with the the things that really had sentimental value and put it in there and kept that and the rest I donated. It’s hard but I know she would have wanted her things to make others happy too.

I had to go through my mother in laws things. I was the only daughter in law. She had two boys. I had to do it over several days. It would get so overwhelming. The memories and the sadness. I would have to walk away from it. Give yourself time and like others have said, save the special things. You aren’t getting rid of your mom by getting rid of her things. I am praying for you.❤️

Oh Sweetheart. I am so very sorry for the loss of your Mother and I recently lost mine too. I am the oldest of seven kids and brought home a lot of her 'stuff' because of the memories attached and knowing they were a part of her life, that we all shared. (Ex: there are seven 40 gallon totes of nothing but photographs of all of us.) I have 'waves of grief' and have bad days and not so bad days. It will be a long time before I have really good days, but they will eventually come. The birthdays and her special days are the hardest, so I make plans to be home alone, for those days. Mom suffered with cancer and we all miss her terribly but she is no longer in pain and that gives us hope that we will see her again in Heaven. Believe me, the grief will get easier to bear and you won't lose your memories of Mom. They will always be in your heart, but you will eventually have peace within you, when you think of her. Take time to grieve and spend time alone with your Mom's stuff. There shouldn't be a rush to get rid of everything at once, so take your time. My house and garage both look just like your room and I try to do a little at a time. Don't be embarrassed; others are in the same boat as you and sometimes it's just too overwhelming to cope with it. I can't tell you how many times I've walked into the room where most of her stuff is; walk away and close the door. We understand what you're going through and our thoughts, prayers and love are with you.

I’m not going to say I understand your pain because we all experience it differently. Like I’ve said before I lost my husband of 22 years in December 2019. Before that I lost my first husband when I was 24 with two boys. It is really hard to get rid of things when it does feel like giving them away every time. I don’t have an end all answer for you because I’m right there with you. All I can say is I’m sending hugs and wishing you peace in your 💜

I’m so sorry for your loss. I know what you’re going through, My mom passed last year, and I am still trying to go through thing and figure out what I am doing with them. I feel your pain. Just take on day at time. My craft room is just as bad, I go downstairs to clean it and get so overwhelmed I just can’t do it. But we will get through it.

My heart goes out to you my Dear. I'm so sorry for the loss of your Mom. My Momma has been gone for over 4 years. Not one day goes by that I don't miss her and I don't want one to. Some days it is hard. Most days I smile thinking about a wonderful memory of her. I thank God that he gave me such a wonderful Momma. You will always have your Mom in your heart. I don't know about a method of getting rid of her things. I still have a lot of my Mom's stuff. I would recommend getting a small decorative box and placing the most precious items in it so that future generations will know who she was and how special she was. God bless you.

Never be embarrassed this is grief..feel it and know it will get easier as for stuff try 10 minutes a day shit the door live your life she does not want this for you

You are just overwhelmed! No need for embarrassment. Just start with one room at a time so it's not so overwhelming. One room at a time, one day at a time. Your mom will always be in your heart. You don't need all of her stuff. Keep some and donate the rest. I kept some of my mom's stuff. I smile and remember her when I look at it.

Big hugs to you!! Take a breath and one day at a time, you can only do what you can. Maybe get a storage unit until you can get to it. I live in upstate ny so I definitely know about the heatwave