More than Just a Dress

My mom and I finally tackled her closet, and it has been a blast! For years, she teased me about helping her organize it, but never wanted to move a single thing out.

This time was different. I did just what professional organizer Shira Gill instructs: I put whole sections on the bed, starting with all the dresses and skirts. My mother graciously tried on each and every piece.

“I wore this outfit to the Gittlin wedding. Wow. This is the dress I wore to Barry’s installation in 1968. And this one I wore to his funeral.”

And on and on it went. My mother had a perfect opportunity to recall not only wearing those dresses, but the people and experiences associated with them. She felt the feelings of being in each outfit.

It’s clear why it’s been so hard to let go.

I won’t lie, my endorphins spiked as things went from her hands into a bag and out the door. Trust me, I’ve benefitted. Just look at my grandmother’s fabulous coat that I snagged.

But much more than that, it’s been a surprisingly fun and meaningful project for both of us.

If your family member has stories behind the stuff, ask them about it.