Well, you all have been an inspiration. I have been wrestling with this very subject for a year now. We haven't exactly reached hoarder status at our house.....but we are definitely cluttered!
Our problem is we are all sentimental. We treasure everything. Papa started a tradition that goes back to when our grown kids were babies....all of the beloved stuffies, blankies, favorite shirts, toys, drawings....etc....went into the "permanent archives".
Now we are on our second set of kids and they have all grown accustomed to being "too precious" and are sure that every scribble drawn or page of schoolwork, dilapidated toy, you name it, is worthy of permanent archive status!
We have two extra bedrooms full of plastic totes (no garage) that are full of things that are too wonderful to throw or give away!
Five of our six children are adopted, three from foster care and have experienced much loss. Letting go of things (change, transitions) are very hard for them.
I think that is why I am reluctant to jump into mass removal. I know it will be opening a can full of wriggling worms and I will have to figure out how to get them all back in! lol
My DH has promised me that I can have one of the spare rooms for a sewing room once it is cleaned out and that is great motivation.
This thread has given me the nudge I need to face this unpleasant task!