I've done the same, and Yes, it was hard to do, but the times you can use some of those pieces for someone special, you know you've added a little of her in the process. Not just the skill and craft but a little piece of her personality, not long ago made one for Mom's twin brother for his 70th birthday. For the granddaughter she never met.... OK now I'm weepy!!
Truely Great to put it to good use :)