A GON Reader Asked
I've recently retired and have several awards, certifications, etc., in frames or on plaques. What do I do with them now?
-- Clifford Ruth, NC
Response from Maria Gracia
Hi Clifford,
Congratulations on your recent retirement. How wonderful and I certainly hope you're enjoying this new adventure in your life. Here are some thoughts that come to mind.
1. Display them. I'm not sure where the awards and certificates you're asking about were being displayed before you retired. I'm guessing your work office? If that was the case, you could always display those that are extra meaningful to you at home if you have a home office, den, or
other display area.
2. Tuck them away. Many people tuck these away in a box and store them. Depending on the extra space you have, you can certainly choose this option if
you want to. Just be sure you're storing them in a cool, dry place so they don't get damaged.
3. Consolidate them. To save the space the frames are claiming, you might
consider removing the original documents from their frames, inserting them into acid-free page protectors, and storing in an archival-safe photo album or box.
4. Digitize them.
Take a photo of each document (or scan them), save them digitally, and discard the originals and the frames they're in.
You can also take photos of the plaques and other non-paper
awards, and store those digitally as well. This preserves the memories and achievements, but doesn't take up the physical space.
That being said, for some printed
documents, like major educational or professional degrees, awards such as "25 years of service," etc., I would recommend you keep those no matter what.
I still have educational, business,
and community awards I've earned. They're tucked away in one fireproof box and stored on a high shelf in my closet. They're not taking up much space and, personally, I would not want to part with them. They represent important times in my life.
I may not look at them very often, but I have shared them occasionally with my daughter (who actually has a lot of interest in them). She may want them later as she's very interested in family history.
On that note, if you have any inclination to bid these a fond farewell, check with family first...any kids or grandkids that you may have. They may want them.
I hope this helps you think this through a bit. Again, happy retirement. Enjoy every moment ahead!
