Do you have a white elephant?

One of my favorite pastimes has always been antiquing and finding items to place in my home. Now, whenever I visit an antique store, I see the same items I purchased years ago and wonder what did I do with these items that I thought I were so valuable?

My husband just parted with three boxes of LPs after coming to the conclusion that he doesn't really want to purchase a record player to hear them snap, crackle and pop.

I gave my costume jewelry and small paintings to charity auctions.

The really great news is that cousin Larry is driving up from Roanoke to pick up the 1932 dental cabinet and all tools stored within. He really wants to keep it in the family, and we are overjoyed to let it grace his foyer. Now I can leave the foyer clear for company.

I apologize to the many collectors out there and to the eBay lovers, but don't we collect too much stuff? I've never seen a hearse with a U-Haul attached to it.

If you have ever had to empty an entire home of a loved one's belongings, then you know you take items that remind you of the love you felt for that person. I am one of six sisters, and together we managed to divide up my mother's estate without arguing.

Of course it was just like Easter Sunday, when we immediately traded our bounty for whatever sweet we really wanted. Malted eggs, not coconut ones. Bonnie guilted me into giving her Mom's cookie jar. Maybe the less to divide, the better!

Now is the time to pass on unloved antiques, clothing, furniture and household items to one of the many thrift shops or charities in our area.

All Saints' and Teen Challenge have pickup trucks which will come to your door, as do many others.

This fall the GFWC Zwaanendael Women's Club is collecting appropriate clothing for boys and girls at Cape Henlopen High School, both gently used and new.

Last year I spoke with one volunteer who said that the students were thrilled with the clothes donated because many couldn't afford to buy new.

The Z Club is also looking for donations of new socks, underwear and slippers for victims of domestic violence. Collection boxes will be at the Lewes Public Library. You can contact Kathy Fortney at 443-610-7251 if you can help the club with these endeavors.

On the third Tuesday of every month, an organization called Chicks for Charity sponsors a dinner held at Hooked Seafood and Martini Bar. A portion of the proceeds goes to various charities, and they are in need of auction items. Perhaps you were given a gift certificate you can't use, or you have a new item in your closet that you know you will never wear or use. Contact Kari Ainsworth or Marcie Urgo at chicksdinner@gmail.com to share your white elephants.

By the way, we inherited a white elephant! I kid you not. It is really a planter from my husband's beloved Aunt Mel. She made the best butterscotch pies, my husband says. And so it still remains my white elephant. I hope my children don't fight over it.