August 31st was practical. It was enough time to make a plan, but not so much time that the plan could dissolve into family folklore.
How I broke the news to my kids
I sent a group text first, because if I called each one separately, I knew I’d get three different versions of the conversation. My exact message was: “I’m clearing all storage areas. If there is anything you want, please claim it by August 31. After that, I’m donating, recycling, or tossing items. I’m happy to send photos
