Nothing for me, thank you.
Do your cupboards look like this? Mine don’t. But my mother’s do, after my recent visit when each day’s main task was to do a clear-out of at least one cabinet or closet or corner. By the end of my one-week stay, Mum’s place had been lightened by several bags of pass-along goods and many piles of throw-away items. Why do we have all this stuff? That is the question we kept asking each other. So many turtleneck sweaters, when Mum no longer likes wearing that style. So many teabags of exotic flavours, when Mum most often drinks builder's tea . So many mugs, when Mum only ever uses her one perfect favourite one. I venture to say we are each the same or, at least, I can say that I am. I have collected two shelves of mugs over the years, some of which are lovely but not perfect for either tea or coffee drinking. Why do I keep them? Same goes for bowls and plates. And clothes, oh my goodness: Since Covid struck and I began to work from home, my sartorial require...