We had another hugely productive weekend cleaning out stuff. Our pile for VVA today was so big that we actually put some of it back in the garage for next time because we were clearly over the allotted donation size I'd specified. I really hope they take everything that's out there. I'll set up another pick up date for next week, again.
This weekend we cleaned out:
-6 drawers by the garage...they're not entirely empty, but I made a good first pass
-upstairs hall closet: 1 large box for VVA, some trash and recycling, and packed a box of stuff we'll keep
-my 18 year old's room: worked with him to sort everything (take to college, keep, get rid of) and then boxed up accordingly
-my husband cleaned out most of his tool chest to make sure he's only moving what he wants to keep
-all the corners of our giant master walk in closet; so much random stuff everywhere
-downstairs bathroom drawers and cabinet under sink: got rid of old sunscreens, old first aid kit stuff
-another pass through the pantry
-the top two shelves in the entire kitchen: several things out to donate!
-laundry room cupboards and shelves: not done, but I did finally recycle almost all of my old college notebooks. Seriously pared down our spare linens.
-my husband and I both thinned out our sock and underwear drawers. He also got rid of all the shorts he doesn't wear, and so many old white(ish) t-shirts
-china cabinet drawers and storage: got rid of excess table linen. I donated 58 cloth napkins. Everyone buys them for me; I only kept what I liked. Seriously, mom, I'm glad you're on board, but I don't need more every time I see you (got another 12 from her at Christmas last year!). Also pulled out a large wood bowl we don't use, and placemats
-storage closet by kitchen: got rid of old water bottles, sorted through old kid stuff (old slime...yay).
-upper two shelves in four cabinets by garage cleared out: mostly recycle, e-waste, donate. Very little keep in that pile.
I know there was more. It was a very productive weekend, but I'm exhausted.
I don't see how we can possibly still have so much left to do, but there is still plenty left. We went to our friends' house last night and my husband said it's actually freeing to downsize by so much because you HAVE to be ruthless and not keep everything "just in case" which is what he usually does. I knew I felt that way, but I was glad to hear he did too! He's always been the "keep just in case" one, so I'm glad he's coming around.