Why a household inventory is important to me

 

I haven't worked on my inventory in a while, and I need to catch up on that.  Oddly enough, it is something that I enjoy doing as I have stated before. And while it is good that I enjoy it, I also think it is a very important document to have.  Obviously, it is important to keep a current inventory of your household belongings for insurance purposes.  Heaven forbid that something happens to the house.  If it does, you need to have a list of what is in there in case of things needing to be replaced.  While one can always try and remember things that you own, it is easier in the long run if you have it all documented. 

Another reason I like to have an inventory is for shopping purposes.  You all know that I love to go to thrift shops and estate sales.  I also love to go to used book and record stores.  Those are just as dangerous to me and luckily the one I frequented several times a month has relocated to another town.  I feel a day trip coming up soon LOL  Anyway, having that inventory I can look to see if I already have something before I buy it again.  I probably have close to 1000 record albums, both Christmas and non, and as much as I try, it is impossible to remember all of the titles.  Having that inventory available to me through my phone (one time I feel internet on my phone is beneficial) comes in handy in cases like that.  Or when I'm perusing sites like eBay, I can check as well.  

My favorite reason for the inventory is the history.  I love knowing the history of the things that I own.  Where they came from, who owned them before me, who made it, the pattern name, etc.  For me, it makes using these things more special.  For those of you who have come to a meal at my house, I can guarantee you that you have been surrounded by my family during those meals.  I keep the inventory so that history does not stop with me.  One day, hopefully for my family, they will use these things and enjoy knowing the history behind it.  That may be a pipe dream but it keeps me motivated. 

If you don't have a household inventory, I highly suggest you start making one.  Even if it's only pictures, it may come in very handy one day.