But only after you have read the descriptions I will include in this virtual catalog for you both. I hope you will feel some connection not only with the objects but with me and your father. And deeper still as many of these pieces previously belonged to your grand-, great-grand and great-great-grandparents, perhaps a part of us will remain present even though we no longer are.

Should you decide your lives have no need of these things, you are free to pass them on to people you know and love, remember you have cousins who share your family heritage. Or armed with the background information I’m providing, you can sell them on e-Bay or on consignment or at a garage sale. And finally, if you don’t want to bother with any of the previously mentioned means of disposal, drop them off at Goodwill or donate to a church bazaar.

You are free to get rid of everything. I would never want to tie you down with the burden of doodads that only have the value you give them. I know you don’t need them to remember me by. But, oh how I hope you treasure one or two pieces and pass on their significance to your children or children’s children.