I’ve always been a pack rat by nature. Not to the extent of those you’d find on A&E’s “Hoarders,” but I’ve always had a hard time parting with things that either had sentimental value or could be used in the future. It’s a trait handed down by my mom, who has always neatly stored whatever she felt had value and could be needed again.
When it was just the hubz and me, I collected clothes, purses, books and all sorts of things that were useful, but I didn’t use often. With each of my boys came additional items that accumulated quickly, from toys to clothing. As they grew out of things, like their Jumperoo and baby gear, I’d clean it, box it up and put it into my attic, because I never knew if I’d need it again.
This year, I’ve come to realize that I’m pretty stoked about being out of the baby phase. My youngest will turn three in April and we’re getting to a stage where those things aren’t needed. And, for the first time, I’m not falling prey to the bouts of baby fever that have kept me holding on to the oodles of baby stuff we no longer need or ever will again.
I know that it’s now time to let go of the stash of baby items and give them to folks I know can put them to good use. In the past, I’ve always been saddened by the idea of moving past the baby stage, but I know now that I’m really, truly ready to move on. And, honestly, I’m pumped. The thought of never changing a diaper again and sleeping through the night is exhilarating.
Every mom reaches this realization at a different time. It’s that moment when you see a tiny baby, coo over his cuteness, hand him back to his mom and breathe a sigh of relief that those days are over. I love babies as much as the next girl, but they’re a lot of work and I’m ready to enjoy the “big boy” phase and the discoveries and freedoms that come with it.
The weirdest thing about reducing the baby clutter is that it’s motivated me to get rid of other things I’ve been hanging onto around the house and in the attic. My house has been so taken over by all the baby needs that getting rid of all the extra feels amazing. I think my pack rat days are officially over. Sorry, mom.
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