Decluttering an is an on going process...

My husband and I come from a long line of clutter loving people. In the beginning of our marriage, we had our junk room! It was so overwhelming to find things. Truthfully, It was too much to even walk into the room.

We decided the only way to solve the problem was to move into a smaller apartment. The excess had to go with no mercy. There was a great sense of relief. We were able to pass the items along to family, friends, freecycle, and craig's list. The landfill was the very last option. It was the first of many declutter sessions over the years.

We have a few simple questions to ask ourselves when we start a new decluttering project.

Some examples:

• Have I seen this in the last 4 months? Is it a seasonal item?
• Will I use it in the next 4 months, if not is seasonal?
• Clothing
• Is it in good condition?
• How many do I have? Is it necessary to own that many?
•  Books
• Have I read it? If I yes, do I need to keep it?
• If I want to keep it, is there an ebook version instead?
•  Do I really need or want the item?

 For us it is about the balance between what we enjoy and what is needed. We want to live a simple, clutter free life while enjoying simple pleasures. My crafts and Mr. Zombie's movies will stay. We will continue to review as necessary so the house is pleasant and free of clutter.

Please share the methods that you use to declutter your home. Or, do you use different questions to help sort between clutter and necessary items.