Having stuff in storage in the States

Leah, I know you went to the States a couple of years ago and got rid of everything you had in storage. I'm going to check on what I have in storage this year (for the first time since I put it all in storage four-and-a-half years ago). It's an apartment's worth of appliances and furniture (living room, dining area, bedroom, office, etc.), as well as a couple of now-obsolete computers and many, many books. I'm reluctant to get rid of any of it, because we ultimately want to move to the States and would hate to start from scratch, but at this point, I'm putting out $190 a month to keep it. Did you sell your stuff, give it away, let the storage company auction it off? I'm not sure what to do. When I think of how much I've spent on storage, it seems a silly waste of money. But it's comforting to know it's there. It would be a no-brainer if we'd decided to stay here permanently, but that's not the case. Comments, anyone? But it's also my only remaining material link to the States, and it's all carefully picked and very nice "stuff." Comments, anyone?

Well.... if I could afford the money I would keep it there as you've said you want to move back some day, it comforts you, it is nice, and is a big connection to the states for you. If you can afford it, then I say go ahead with it.  Especially if you really are planning on going over at some point relatively soon. Sure you can re-buy everything, but the new stuff won't have any sentimental value. And when picking up and moving your life and home to another country, sentimental value counts a lot more than money value, in my personal opinion and experience. But if you're feeling the pinch for spending that kind of money, then I'd look into selling it when you go over next. I'd just weigh its emotional value against the expense of keeping it. Follow whichever is greater!

Sara, I guess the emotional takes priority. I've no doubt spent more on storage than what it's all actually worth, but it was in good shape, so I guess I'll just drop by, have the company break the lock (I've lost the key), give everything a hug, and promise I'll be back soon. It's an outdoor place, so given the weather extremes in the D.C. area (ridiculously hot summers, cold and sometimes snowy winters), I'm hoping nothing has been too damaged.

I think that sounds like a good plan - as you've said the emotional value is most important. Think about how much like Christmas it will feel when you open it all up again - I know I'm looking orward to that feeling in 3 weeks time!

Perhaps the next time you are over,  you could look for a less expensive storage place?

Otter, when I moved here, it was the cheapest place I could find. I'm going to talk to the management there and see it they'll chop off some of the price, considering how long-term I've been keeping my belongings there--and they constantly seem to raise the price. I don't know if that's legit, or if they're taking the piss because I'm in England. Otherwise, I'll just hope somewhere cheaper has opened in the area, although that's unlikely, since it's right outside of D.C.