fine china

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The Family China You Had No Idea Was So Beloved

It's fine if you don't feel a sentimental attachment to 12 place settings of your grandmother's china. But before you toss (or sell) every last cup and saucer, says Lowenheim, check with other relatives to see if they want anything first. "One of your siblings might be very resentful if you dispose of it without asking who else might want it," says Lowenheim. On a related note, she also advises declutterers to ask grown children before throwing away their memorabilia, from old yearbooks to artwork. If your kids do want the items, give them a deadline for picking them up.