Things you don't throw out when you're downsizing

Family heirlooms It is hard to determine which ones are truly meaningful to you and your family.  Always ask yourself what are the items you love and value? These cherished items are the ones you keep and take with you to your new home. Andrew Miellen writes about keep sakes versus familiar relationships.

Photographs.... Life is an accumulation of memories.  I love photos. They are the tool that bring back those precious memories. You may consider digitizing your photos, but you don't want to lose them. Pack them together in separate boxes. We like to recommend clear plastic bins with lids. 

Important Papers. Shred and discard as much unnecessary paper as possible. Keep important documents such as Medical Records, Power of Attorney Documents, Wills, Marriage Licenses, Divorce Decrees, SIN numbers, Birth & Death Records, Pension Plan Documents, Insurance Policies, Passports, Wills, Trusts, , etc.

Collections. Select a few of your favorite pieces (3-5) that you love. These are things to display and cherish. Take photos of the ones you can part with. Are the collections of high value? You may consider selling the collection intact if you no longer love it.

Fine Jewelry AND the boxes they came in. Keep the beautiful blue Tiffany box you have.

De-clutter and purge on an ongoing basis. Periodically purge your belongings to keep items at bay in your home. Once we have the awareness and realization that we can live our lives with less stuff, we have the first step in being able to downsize.