It is over 20 years since I last moved house and now that the time has come to gather things together ready for my next move I'm seeing the trappings of life from a different angle.
Some things - pots, pans, dishes, a bed, some clothes - are in everyday use and by most people's standards they are essential. The number and size and quality may vary but almost everyone would have them in some form or another. Most folk could also lay claim to having a fair few other things besides the essentials. Furniture, books and pictures on the walls are there to make the home more comfortable and add to the quality of life.
I wonder though how many homes have long forgotten boxes in the attic and things at the back of a drawer and stuff piled in cupboards that is never used. Those things, like the toasted sandwich maker or the slow cooker had their 15 minutes of fame before the novelty wore off and they were confined to the some dark recess. Admittedly they did seem like a good idea at the time.
Then there is that gift from an aunt or uncle, given in a well meaning way but not quite your cup of tea. Though you never had the heart to throw it out you never had the inclination to use it either. Besides, you probably inflicted your share of inappropriate gifts on your relatives out of a sense of Christmas guilt. At least the ubiquitous plastic gift card doesn't take up space and isn't as crude as simply putting cash in an envelope and placing it under the Christmas tree, even if it isn't anywhere near as versatile as a couple of bank notes.
Which brings me in a round about way to my present situation. I have a pile of strong cardboard boxes, I have a house full of possessions, some of which haven't seen the light of day in years, and I will have fewer and smaller rooms once I do decide where I'll be going. I need to square the circle. Actually, I need to be ruthless and organise several trips to the local charity shop or wherever. Yes there is eBay and there are car boot sales, but there are also only 24 hours in a day and I still like to spend some of them sleeping.
I'm pretty sure that some things that "may come in useful" will make it under cover to the new abode, and who knows, they may even be pressed into service one day. What I'm hoping and aiming for is that I'll end up with just enough possessions to be functional and live in pleasant surroundings in my new home - and that I'll keep it that way. Travelling light has its merits. Of course, Murphy's Law does mean that there will be at least one item that I'll need soon after it has found its way to a new owner, though somehow I don't think the new owner will be making toasted sandwiches with it.
