EXTREME DECLUTTER - BASEMENT PLAYROOM and HOMESCHOOL BASKETS - [Extreme Declutter Series Part 2]

This video is the second in the series of an extreme declutter, as part of a journey towards minimalism. Minimalism holds different meanings for people, and in this video I start talking about three hurdles I've encountered: extreme declutter, how to declutter, and habit changes.
My thought process during this journey has changed. It's not just about decluttering. I'm examining my spending habits, budgeting, and clutter habits.
#extremedeclutter #minimalism #declutter
This video is part of the Minimalist Series. You are watching Part 2 of a whole house extreme declutter.
Part 1, Basement and Art Room Declutter: • EXTREME DECLUTTER - Be...
Part 2, Basement and Baskets : • EXTREME DECLUTTER - BA...
Part 3, Kids Clothes and Books: • EXTREME DECLUTTER - KO...
Part 4, Kitchen: • KITCHEN DECLUTTER + MI...
Part 5, Kids Closet and Coat Closet: • CLOSET DECLUTTER - MIN...
Part 6, Bedroom Declutter: • BEDROOM DECLUTTER + KO...
Part 7, Sunroom Declutter: • MINIMALIST SUNROOM - D...
// SAY HELLO!
Website: www.ericalucasloves.com
Inquiries: [e-mail]
Instagram: @ericalucasloves
Twitter: @ericalucasloves
Facebook: @ericalucaslovescoffee
Goodreads: @ericalucas
// MINIMALISM VIDEOS and MINIMALISM JOURNEY
90/90 Minimalism Rule:
• 90/90 Rule in Minimali...
5 Minimalism Rules for Decluttering:
• Minimalism Rules for D...
// FAVORITE PRODUCTS I USE FOR DECLUTTERING
Fireproof Waterproof Document Bag: amzn.to/3dnCXtZ
Long-term paper storage bins: amzn.to/333pHYP
// CREATOR NOTES
Music: Epidemic Sound: www.epidemicso...
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FTC Disclaimer: I may receive some products in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are my own and are not influenced by brand, person, or company. Please note that some links may be affiliate links, and I earn a commission from your purchase. These links share products at no extra cost to you.
// ERICA LUCAS
Erica Lucas focuses on inspiring people to make positive changes that make life simple. She does through various forms of media including videos, books, social media, digital downloads, courses, and more. Visit Erica's website for more information and follow her on social media.
c/o Erica Lucas
1783 Forest Drive, #322
Annapolis, MD, 21401

[@bubbagene145]

You're so emotionally open, humble and authentic. It really was like watching my friend clean her house. Not some stranger I don't know. Lovely.

[@crewsawyer6822]

Pro trick : watch series on kaldrostream. Been using it for watching lots of of movies lately.

[@kyloleonardo8795]

@Crew Sawyer yup, I've been watching on KaldroStream for since november myself :D

[@darwinidris4001]

@Crew Sawyer yea, I've been using kaldrostream for since november myself =)

[@atticuslangston9756]

@Crew Sawyer yea, I've been watching on kaldrostream for months myself =)

[@jerryhouston8096]

@Crew Sawyer Yup, been using Kaldrostream for since november myself :)

[@accadia50]

Dude, your stress, mini-breakdowns and general emotional state is completely reasonable given the massive changes you’re making. It’s hard but you’ve done such an incredible job so far. Congratulations on all your progress and thank you for sharing your journey! You’re inspiring others!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thank you so much for these words!!

[@jennys9043]

This is why I enjoy Erica’s videos! It’s uplifting to see another person feeling the same overwhelm that I am feeling right now and working through it like a total boss. This is such a huge undertaking and can be a very emotional process.

[@Michelle-cj7eu]

step 1: stop saying “i am a homeschool hoarder“, then start saying “i used to be a homeschool hoarder“

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Oooooooooh I love that. Putting it in the past.

[@barbaraamelia8671]

When you get comfy with that, you can go even further and turn it into a purely positive wording, like “I own only what my family can use and my space is cozy and clean.” You can add to that or change it, but using positive language goes a long way toward emotional healing. I admire what you are doing and wish you a beautiful future in your minimalistic home! 💕

[@katiethomas5889]

Reformed homeschool hoarder?

[@leilani9130]

I think the minimalist thing is like loosing weight. It sounds amazing and when you’re inspired you do great, then old habit come in and throw you back into the clutter. It is hard, thanks for sharing the struggles and the humor.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Hi Leilani! Minimalism has definitely evolved. You are right - I didn't change my habits and I fell right back into the old ways. I've been habit changing these last two weeks and that's hard to do. I am motivated and I really hope it sticks! Former homeschool hoarder turned minimalist. LOL - (PS - anyone reading this comment, hop over to Leilani's channels! She's fantastic.)

[@crystalwright1504]

@@EricaLucasLoves One of my favourite quotes is "Tomorrow is always fresh with no mistakes in it." from Anne of Green Gables. Being a real person means making mistakes. It just is part of it. I try not to beat myself up if I cheat on my diet or have a lazy day and fall off of the housekeeping system I am trying to make into a habit. I always just resolve to get back to it the next day. You're doing a great job!!

[@sharonrobledo136]

Girl, I feel your pain this “consumerism“can and has gotten the best of many of us.

[@roxanaconception]

It’s been psychologically studied of how to get to that part of our psyche. Notice all that packaging and how toys are displayed in them. The pictures of board games. And potter much everything, like bathroom curtains where they show a picture of the curtain with other accessories and they have to add on a small print. (Accessories sold separately) But we get a “ooh, that looks so nice, I want my bathroom to look like that”)

[@sharonrobledo136]

Yes, a picture is worth a 1000 words. So funny how the grass always looks greener on the other side. Only when you get there it’s really not much greener.

[@EducationalRoots]

You’re very good at editing and I love your honesty and vulnerability.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thank you for saying so! I felt vulnerable in this one.

[@djawesomeness159]

Blah ha ha I love your comment “I know it’s ironic to have a dozen books on minimalism” lol

[@labradorite8256]

She's a very funny lady!

[@marioncerrone3456]

Wow, you’re doing a great job. When I feel overwhelmed by mess and clutter, I do small sections, one shelf, cupboard. Celebrate your completing one task. Try not to be too hard on yourself. You’re amazing.🌹🌹🌹🌹

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Marion, thank you for the kind words and taking the time to life my spirits about this journey. It felt great to tackle games and puzzles. I'm going to do books and then homeschool materials. I suppose that more konmari method - categorizing like that. Do you have tips?

[@leonacoburn5852]

@@EricaLucasLoves there are Facebook groups for KonMari and we break it down into subcategories. For example, I lead a week on tools and hobbies.

[@jessicabulloch5302]

It seems like this is a very emotional journey for you, a good friend should have helped you with this process. You have lots of containers and shelves , what helped me was to put away shelves and extra surfaces because if they are there we might continually fill them up. And we have the idea that the more containers or organizational systems we have the more organized we will be , but it doesn't work out like that. You are doing great, don't give up

[@EricaLucasLoves]

EXACTLY! I kept buying containers to organize and hide the stuff.

[@carylhalfwassen8555]

Jessica Bulloch I keep flat surfaces in my home to a minimum. I tend to put my craft items everywhere there is a flat surface! Those who are into sewing know what I mean. And there are plenty of UFOs which are unfinished objects for quilters. I no longer shop sale fabric or supplies just to store them for the magic day I will find a NEED for them. I purged my fabric collection and donated it to an organization to make items for hospitalized children.

[@karenahrens1756]

@@carylhalfwassen8555 .

[@thebrooklyndreamer7471]

I really appreciate your honest reactions to the process. I also become anxious and overwhelmed when decluttering. I feel like a lot of other channels make decluttering look so easy and it's not. I'm looking forward to seeing more videos about your journey to minimalism.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

The Brooklyn Dreamer it is NOT easy! Thank you for taking the time to watch and to comment.

[@3llenzinha]

Maybe it is easier for some people and harder for some other people.

[@amycaasi2325]

My husband never said anything about my spending habits because I always had good intentions for my family. We have to show our self grace so that we can move forward and learn from our mistakes.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

That’s so goooood!!

[@EverydayBlessings]

Your couch is beautiful! Don’t be hard on yourself. You are basically changing your life! It’s hard! It’s easier said than done to let the guilt go. Keep your eyes on your goal! I love watching these videos!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thank you Nina! It does FEEL like a life change. If you are reading this, hop over to Nina's channel Everyday Blessings - she just recently post a great collab video on Kitchen Classrooms.

[@biteofdog]

@@EricaLucasLoves I love your decluttering videos, I'm glad that I stumbled across them! I'm so impressed by all of the extreme decluttering that you have done as well as how open you are about how stressed out you are about living with the mess and wanting to change this behavior. Not many like talking about the emotional side of getting rid of things (decision making is draining and overwhelming at times), but in the end it is so worth it! Thank you for these inspirational videos!

[@autumngreenleaf3390]

Thanks. You're doing just fine. No need to worry or get stressed. I'd like to make a suggestion, make a donation run now instead of waiting. This will help to clear the space and help you see progress.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Autumn (love your name!), thanks! Stuff piles around and takes us space waiting for pick up. Dropping it off will keep up momentum. I run out of space and then quit for the day. Thanks! Let me know if you have more suggestions. This is a good one!

[@lorawiese5596]

If you have a salvation army, they will come pick it up.

[@joysanders4289]

@@EricaLucasLoves Great suggestion from Autumn Greenleaf. I've just watched part 1 and 2 and really admire how you are tackling the mountain of stuff! I had a blitz in the summer and I googles places that might want books, magazines etc. Schools are always very happy to take books and puzzles and also if you advertise a house style carboot sale with what is ready to go- that could be a positive way to move stuff on to others. You've done a fantastic job!

[@sarahhart7260]

I admire you so much! You are one of the few KZbiners who actually gets rid of stuff. A lot just re arrange it! Your life will be changes in so many positive ways. I’m also a homeschool mama and it is so easy to keep stuff for future use. I’ve been on my minimalism journey for about 3 years. It takes lots of practice but I learn and grow daily! Keep up the great work!!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thank you Sarah! I am PURGING and it feels great. I shared pictures of the donate pile with my homeschool co-op and they snagged up most of it! I am THRILLED to share it for free with another homeschool family. That relieved some of my guilt and made me happy. I'm minimizing homeschool very soon... please tell me your tips for doing that since you've been on this journey for years!

[@bizubfamily7]

@@EricaLucasLoves , at our co-op we've gotten in the habit of bringing free things whenever we have them. I've been able to bless other families with our free things and they have blessed me with theirs. We've traded everything from clothes to toys to homeschool materials. It's been wonderful!

[@leonacoburn5852]

@@bizubfamily7 freecycle is a great site

[@melonydever]

Is it weird that I really want to come to your house and help? I LOVE these kind of projects.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

It would be weird if you showed up. lol 😂But not weird that you want to help me!!!!! Thanks for watching. Any tips?

[@annieslittleblessings3368]

I kept thinking the same thing. I want to help. Lol!

[@jillneer7305]

Me too!! Much easier to declutter someone elses mess!

[@jillneer7305]

@@EricaLucasLoves I find if I can't see what I have, I forget I have it. I try to make things visible, even it they're behind closed doors (ie: closets, pantry, etc)

[@xandarauf6700]

sameee😃

[@SusanEvans]

I love the result of decluttering! It feels so much better visually, and that transfers to peace in the soul.

[@bluegingerblue7402]

Awe, you’re so awfully hard on yourself. De-clutter all that guilt! You’re doing great. And you’ve inspired me to organize better!

[@DipityS]

You had more stick-to-ed-ness that I have - when I've felt that overwhelming anxiety of not knowing where to start or how to begin, I often find myself tucked onto my computer mindlessly surfing youtube - you barrelled through and plucked up those puzzles and made a start! I think that's wonderful! Thank you for sharing your journey. Good luck going forward!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Ha thanks! I did mindlessly surf before to see how others approached the piles. I didn’t know how to do it.

[@FieldsFullHouse]

Ok I went and cleaned out a cabinet after watching this!!! Thanks for sharing your journey to minimalism!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Ha great job Jessica!

[@barbnixon5929]

Amazon needs a new revenue stream, Best quote EVER!!!!

[@thestraycat907]

The first thing I do when I go to peoples houses is look around at all the junk they have and I desperately get the urge to purge. I dont mean to be judgemental and I never say anything. But holy crap do people have a lot of stuff it blows my mind.

[@rebeccahymel5440]

I love this! And you! You are such an inspiration!

[@dellamonk6792]

The great thing about Marie Kondo’s book, is that she walks you through her system step by step, category by category. It may help with your sense of overwhelm.

[@annieslittleblessings3368]

“Poor man is married to me, I spend the money.” I giggled at this but I feel the same way. Thankfully I found decluttering and minimalism about 4 years ago. We have 5 children ages 8, 7, 6, 4 & 2 and we live in a 2 bedroom home. It was definitely out of necessity for me since we don’t have much storage space. As I have de cluttered more I found that it also keeps me stress free to have less and the house is so easy to maintain for me and my littles. We just wrapped up our first year of homeschooling. I quickly learned that I wanted to justify buying all sorts of homeschooling books and manipulatives. But i quickly saw that i just didn’t have the space for what we were actually going to need for our school year so my plan going in was to only buy what we absolutely needed for our daily work and so far I have stuck to it. Thank you so much for sharing your journey. I wish I could be there helping you. God bless and protect you and your family.

[@jessicafields4310]

This was so encouraging to watch you clean out! I was cracking up when you were offering your son some coffee! 🤣

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thanks Jessica! I laughed so hard when he said “I work it out.” With 9 kids, I bet you say that phrase too! Work it out. Kids repeat all the things! lol

[@jessicafields4310]

Homeschool Happens yes they do!!

[@earlenewhite2588]

Oh my goodness!!! You hit it on the head, the forgiveness, you dont forgive yourself. Wow talk about a reality check. Thank you so much.

[@chosendebbie]

I love the huge cubby station and how you used a few shelves for decor. Great transformation.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thank you Deb!

[@EverydayBlessings]

I love the fall decor on your cube organizer it’s so pretty!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thank you! I actually declutter my fall stuff at the same time! And I don’t use it all this year, like I usually do. I put it back in the attic. I am trying to be mindful of not purging seasonal and sentimental too much.

[@jeanniearnold7906]

It really is OK to donate or throw things away. Put things in bags and take them to Good Will. They will sort it. Put things in bags and THROW IT AWAY. It's OK, really. Just do it.

[@MemeS-sb2cq]

I came back tonight and watched some of your older videos and I can tell a difference in you. Then you looked tired and stressed. Now I can see how much better you feel. You look younger, and so much happier. You are living proof that this works. Love you and your sweet family so much.

[@crystalwright1504]

I too was a Homeschool Hoarder. I think you did a great job. Realization is the biggest and hardest hurdle. I never conquered that beast. My kids just grew up and moved out so the stuff left too. So I am giving huge koodos to you!! Well done!!!!

[@jillc1910]

My mouth literally dropped open seeing the finished off baskets and shelving. Bravo!!

[@Jersey737]

It's been said they we only use 20% of what we have leaving 80% not used. So when I did my declutter years ago I kept that in mind🙂

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Really? I would definitely believe that. I have 20 mugs but I use the same two.

[@annhaney8014]

Book: Your Money or Your Life - One of the most powerful realizations that you mentioned is the justification of buying items that you haven't needed and that did not contribute to the well-being of you or your family. That wake-up is one of the roots to beginning to transform your life and the way you look at material possessions and your spending habits. You are growing and that is so beautiful to see. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@miriammcgee]

Oh honey. You're enough for them. You dont need to buy them things. You're enough.

[@racheld4438]

I love how real you are! This is exactly how I felt when I started decluttering! Good luck!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thanks Rachel! How do you maintain minimal clutter? What tricks do you use!

[@racheld4438]

@@EricaLucasLoves when I started the process I cried just looking around the room seeing all the things I bought (or got from someone Bec they threw it out) it really overwhelmed me. Now I try making better choices, if my family really need it. And I ask myself this question: what do I want out of my life? Do I want to be busy cleaning things that I don't really need or do I want to be busy with things that I enjoy doing? And it's my choice in life if I want a messy house or not! Not because someone says I can't have a messy house! It's my choice! I always thought I needed all the things but when I was living in boxes for weeks because I couldn't move into my new place I realized how many things I didn't really need . We used magazines to cut out things that started with the alphabet etc. We somehow found things my kids could be busy with that otherwise would have gone to the trash. It's a wonderful journey to go through, if you don't keep on knocking yourself on the head😉

[@vcarmichelli7781]

I too homeschooled my four. I, like you had a TON of supplies. I think I subconsciously felt my four were “missing out” on the traditional school experience, so to assuage my own guilt, if you will, I attempted to fill the school room with any and everything I could get my hands on. They all came out fine... they went to college and are great productive humans. Give yourself a pass on the money you spent, it’s gone, you are doing a great job! When I finally cleaned out it was overwhelming and liberating all at the same time. No more suffocating under the weight of too much stuff. Well done you!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thanks Valerie! So happy you brought your kids through homeschool. Your advice goes right to my heart because you have been there!!

[@kbthor8]

I love the loyal pup following you around.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Kim, he is a handful as a puppy but he’s awesome. :)

[@LisetteZ3]

You are so inspiring! I love that you didn’t edit out the moments you are overwhelmed or have anxiety. Makes it much more relatable for me. Keep up the great work! You’re making so much progress

[@EricaLucasLoves]

I felt so vulnerable sharing those moments but what you see is what you get with me. I’m honest to a fault. :)

[@britneyharper3572]

Your right it is a journey. It honestly took me a long time to get where I am now. But it gets easier. Every time I go through stuff I get rid of more stuff. Now I actually have places on my house that i feel is almost empty. I have severe anxiety and this was the best way for me to control it. My house isn't always clean, but even my kids have taken it on. My oldest will actually randomly bring me boxes of stuff he no longer wants or uses. Even my husband preferred it now. And my house is DEFINITELY cleaner. You're doing great!!!!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Yes!! It’s so much easier to clean now!!

[@britneyharper3572]

@@EricaLucasLoves it always inspires me to clean too. That's the best part. It's like that happiness from the first time comes back everytime. I'm so happy for you!

[@MsPants1632]

That quote was awesome!! Yes my favorite quote was “you can’t organize clutter”. I can’t remember who I heard that from first but it’s s gem!! I just found your channel and am loving your decluttering vids! It certainly is a process. It took me over a year and I’m not done and I really don’t think I had all that much !! Lol I can’t imagine homeschooling and all the stuff that comes along with it! My kids go out to school and my counters and cabinets are full of school stuff! You are doing great so don’t overwhelm yourself with guilt... we all have things we wished we did differently or started our journey sooner, but the fact that you are doing it now is awesome!! Keep on going and only look forward... no guilt 💕

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Jen Pants you can’t organize clutter!! I have so many bins now in effort to do just that.

[@valenciacuttriss4259]

Whatever you bought was a gift for others and even though you bought a lot it brought you to this new understanding.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

I feel so great gifting these things to others. That is really helping!

[@mariedillon1403]

Fair play to you that you're honest and really a lot like the rest of us. You're so nice please don't beat yourself over anything, you're doing great especially with a 5.30 wake up each morning. Everyday is a new day and a fresh start anyway ...great decluttering 😊☘️

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thanks Marie! Every day is a new day! Adding that to my list of favorite comments!

[@FieldsFullHouse]

Watching again to get inspired for this weeks purge!

[@blmartin8829]

What a great start! Here are three channels on KZbin you may like. 1. Minimal Mom: she is AMAZING and addresses a lot of the issues we have with decluttering. 2. Minimom she is from New Zealand and has a real zen like outlook. 3. Hoarder's Heart: she is beginning her journey and has some very compelling videos and great ideas too. Keep it up because less leads to so much more! Thanks for your honesty

[@angelavonbrughan199]

Don't be so hard on yourself! All Moms want the best for their children. The main thing is that you've learned from your mistake and you're making an effort to rectify it. You go girl!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thank you! I am trying!!!!

[@ednarose86]

The pure joy and relief that I saw when you had boxed up the games and puzzles for donation...........SO INSPIRING and it made my heart SING! I just wanted to jump through the screen and give you a hug and celebrate with you! I'm so glad that you took us on your journey! I'm starting mine too and it's nice to see people be open, be real, and be willing to share the struggles the guilt the anxiety that you feel when you are letting go of what should just be stuff to us. You are amazing!

[@debbiemyer3006]

Erica, fantastic job of decluttering AND changing your habits! So amazed at you. Thank you for sharing this process with us. You have been boldly "looking into the mirror" at yourself and not flinching from making lasting change. I am jumping up and down for you! What a good feeling it is, to make progress! To get your house back, and get yourself back --- your unhidden, true self. Beautiful! ❤️

[@lindamusser7370]

I love: "I'm a what you see is what you get kinda girl"! I think that's why I watch your videos over and over.

[@karenadams8439]

Advice from my decluttering journey: it will get worse before it gets better. I started to declutter and every room just looked like a giant bomb went off once I started and it's all part of the process. You got this!

[@sandradeleon6171]

Haha! That is EXACTLY how my house looks! I did not really think it through and would a little here, a little there....and now ALL my rooms look like a hoarder house with tons of stuff pulled out of drawers, bins, closets. LORD HELP ME!! So now after having mini breakdown, going for a 30 min walk with my 1 yr old....decided to work on room by room. So I moved EVERYTHING from our front room to our back living room. Started vacuuming and then just put back what I really need and want. Now trying to tackle the living room....but I gotta go get my kids from school in 30 mins. So...this will be fun (so not fun)!!! I wish I had the funds to take the kids to daycare for a week (the little, and the big ones after school) so that I could work uninterrupted and without them taking stuff out of the sorted containers or just strewing it about again. It is like 2 steps forward, 3 steps back!

[@nandamari]

Thanks for being so honest and sharing such a private issue in the area of homemaking.

[@yayasorensen4351]

I know it's hard but you got this! This gives me a strong desire to start singing that terrible Frozen song Let it go.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

lol now that song is in my head 😂

[@mominator7274]

Thank you from the very bottom of my heart for sharing this. I am beginning the process of decluttering and bringing my house back to a state of joy for my family and myself. I appreciate how open you are and have been with your emotions. I thought of you yesterday as I burst into tears as I stared at a space that I didn't know where to begin. I remembered what you went through and where you are now. So thank you so much for your transparency. You are helping and bringing joy to people you've never met! Bless you sweet woman!

[@MommaonMission]

I love your honesty. I hate the greed and consumerism that plagues our nation. And I’m part of the problem!

[@MsHazza73]

I’m proud of you, and you should be proud of yourself. You’re way too hard on yourself and it’s emotional watching you tackle a whole cluttered house alone. You have the strength to do it, but from one woman to another it hurt to watch you do it alone. I wanted to jump in several times and tackle it with you. Your husband forgives you so readily because you’re not doing it out of malice, you’re buying what you think the family needs. YOU have recognised that the family can do without all the Amazon purchases etc, and he trusts your instincts 100%. GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK! The differences made are already outstanding and are making wonderful emotional differences to you - and I’d think the whole family. You are a fantastic mum and wife, well done 👍🏼 💜 💪🏼 👏🏼

[@blessedbabe8318]

I grew up with a mom who taught me ‘ need or want ‘ I went crazy buying when I got a job and had money of my own in my 20s I am now 50 and have gone through a decluttering phase and wish I could could have avoided it getting to the point of hoarding ‘. LESS IS BEST’ please know you are not the only person who has issues ! Just be thinking you are waking up and doing something!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Less is more and less is best! Love thy. Thank you for the sweet words.

[@mariebailey9108]

Remember, if something comes into the house, something goes out.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

I am going to try that!

[@biteofdog]

That's what I do during the holidays at the end of the year, I purge my closet and reorganize and reduce any stuff that I don't need. It has helped change my spending habits by only purchasing things I will use. I still have stuff to go through in drawers and in my closet. My new motto is that 'everything has a place', so I can easily find those things and not waste money on buying it again. Back home at my parents house (out of state) I plan on getting rid of the 15 boxes of stuff I still have there when I next visit.

[@lisarolo4250]

My hats off to you. I have the last 2 years gone through the same experience. I have 2 autistic children and all the learning tools I thought they needed. To find out I have over spent and bought items to replace other items. Keep it up we are here to support you.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thank you Lisa! How did you maintain after the purge?

[@loisr3970]

Goodness so proud of you ! I got a funny one for you. I have a private housekeeping sevice for seniors. I have helped people do this for 35 yrs. Fast forward 38 yrs. We rent our house. The owner passed away. Daughters own it now. We have till may 2020. With rent prices so high we r looking at 500 to 700 more a month. No one allows dog these days. My buddy is 11 he has to come. So I AM DECLUTTERING. MY GOSH THE THINGS WE GATHER.. I had both of my children's report cards from kindergarten till they graduated. The art work I saved.. memories. I can tell you all these little things I got from clients over the years. One wonderful lady I was with 20 yrs lived in her home till 101. This little dear sculpture with two fawns. Sat on a mirror on her tv. As I have done this for work for years I really didn't think I would be challange for me. . It is the emotional part that's hard. Then as part of my work I have had to help,seniors going into a retirement home or nursing home. Go thru a house they have lived in for 50 something years. Into 250 sq ft. It is a struggle for them. All their memories. If the move is there choice it is difficult. It is so sad if it's a medical condition or all of a sudden they have no choice. I try and suggest it early on little by little, also I want them to decide who they would like things to go to. Also they come from an Era you don't throw things away. Think of a 4 bdrm house full . The furniture I see go in the garbage. When the adult kids get come in they don't know what do do with it all. Parents don't want to be told what to do with there stuff. Oh and NO the kids won't want it!!!!!! So don't bother saving it for them. lolol. Sorry for the novel . I hope it helps someone. Ohh and housekeeper rule here!! Never stop at a door way and look in at the big picture it overwhelmes you. You know what's in that room decide before you go in what you are going to work on. Go right to it focus on that. Move to next area. Getting overwhelmed leave a few minutes and go back to the spot. Blessings Good luck..

[@EricaLucasLoves]

I love that idea of NOT looking at the big picture of a room. Take a thing not the room. Good luck on your upcoming move. Will you loop back and tell me how’s it going for you???

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Lois, this inspired me. Can I mention you in a future video? Your advice is really good!!

[@loisr3970]

@@EricaLucasLoves Thanks I'm glad u thought it was helpful. Sure you may share...I wish I had learned these lessons earlier. You are in a wonderful position with your children so young. The gift you can give them of not needing stuff. ( check out the George Carlin (comedian) do he thing on stuff amazing) Housing prices are insane , well in Canada.. Nothing under 500,000 for a condo. Rent 2000 and up. Why do we need so much room, stuff. Media, regular school, Peer pressure. All encouraging us and them that we need more. Oh I did daycare 20+ yrs. Think you would luv junk journaling and Smash books with your kids. Date every page Such an amazing new tool. Uses. Gratitude 2 or more it's up to u lol. Things they are greatfull for that day. What was best about today. The weather.. What struggles or challenges of the day....showing emotions. If a child is angry they can't Express it journal it. Ask them to draw, color, put words to how they feel. The same with Happy, Super excited. Older ones a sceduale. Chores, homework, sports or classes. Ohh books I've read draw a bookcase write the names in the spines. Etc etc. The pleasure of pen to paper. Enjoy your babies God's most wonderful Blessings... It flies by before you know it they are adults. Cheers

[@Munsjvc2]

Yes! The definition of minimalism is different for everyone. Once I caught that my excitement kicked in, because I thought, okay I can do this in a way that fits my family and still reap the benefits.

[@madawna]

You need to know you're a good wife and mother. You're amazing at persevering through this challenge.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thank you so much for these words. I needed them.

[@reginacornish3030]

So I've followed you for several years, I am rewatching your decluterring videos so I have a refresher to tackle my outside shop area. You've come so far!!!

[@lindaannino4528]

Your doing a great job .i totally understand the mild anxiety attacks over trying to organize and downsize stuff . Keep up the good work .

[@RaeInTime]

Thank you for being so honest! Makes me feel less alone in my struggle with decluttering😊❤

[@sharonritchie7115]

I was/am a crafting/kids stuff hoarder. I stopped buying but need to start purging. You are helping SO MANY people just get started. You’re doing AWESOME!

[@cassiehood8453]

This was me. I have been homeschooling for 20 years ( 5 kiddos), I had way too much. When my mother died something clicked in me and I decluttered heaps. You really do not need a lot when you homeschool. You are doing a great job.

[@georgiabuckingham65]

As I’m watching you de clutter, I keep thinking, pick a space for items, puzzles, games, etc, and only keep what fits in that space. I had to do that with my shoes. I keep two medium shelves for shoes, and if I buy more, I gotta get rid of a pair. I limit myself to what fits on the shelf. You’re journey is inspiring! I need to do more decluttering too!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thanks for that idea, Georgia! I am working towards that. I managed to fit games and puzzles in one cabinet!

[@MysteryViv]

I appreciated seeing your honest feelings of overwhelm and despair. I feel the same. Lots of videos don't have this or include it so I think I am the only one.

[@lennyburdick3192]

January 21, 2023! How amazing the changes in your life! Yay you!!

[@emilydavis8201]

I am in your shoes now! I have begun our extreme declutter but it is overwhelming. The guilt of wasting money my husband worked hard for. I too am a homeschool hoarder! Okay....breathe and let’s move forward together. Thankyou so much for these videos!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Oh let’s do this together!!! Yes, my hubby works so hard for us and I made some mistakes. I’m changing my spending habits in a big way.

[@kbdefay]

You are a great inspiration and a great mom. You are teaching your kids an extremely valuable skill. If they can successfully adopt the principles of minimalism in their lives, just imagine how much more enjoyable their lives will be. Be kind to yourself. What you are doing is amazing! You go girl!

[@k.s.k.7721]

Good for you - doing all this work. Never forget you are modeling good behavior for your kids and teaching them what's really important. Not things, but relationships are the basis of a family - and it's something you can structure into your home school lessons. How to budget, organizing, and how to think about the difference between wanting & needing. These are all life lessons, and you give your family a gift when you express how challenging and rewarding it can be.

[@carmenmcallister5222]

I just want to say that I stumbled across this video and I recognize my old self in it. You can do this! I have recently gone through a change myself. My house always seemed cluttered and I was always just "too tired" after a day of work. And I felt like I deserved a day off on Saturday. Nothing ever really got done unless I spent a whole day cleaning, and thus paying for it later (I have arthritis and I would be so sore the next day) I woke up one day and decided to change. I got rid of STUFF....just stupid stuff...and I don't miss it. I now clean my house every day and it just takes moments. If I pick something up, it goes back. I bought myself a cordless vac for quick cleanups each and everyday. My teenage daughter is on board and we are happier! My husband and I actually have time to spend together and I feel like I've decluttered my mind too!!! You'll feel so amazing once it's done. Good for you!!!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

This is so inspiring!! I’m so happy for you!!!

[@carmenmcallister5222]

@@EricaLucasLoves thank you! Going to follow your channel for updates 😊

[@JW-dg9gf]

You are a brave and compassionate human. Youre a great Mom. Your honesty is inspiring. Good editing :)

[@user-td6lx6we4j]

My gosh, why didn't i see this video years ago? I started decluttering about 3 months ago and felt so much guilt. Thank you so much for sharing and making others feel they are not alone

[@magalimertens7601]

Feeling guilty can be usefull (to not do the same mistakes again and again), but pride is usefull too. Be proud of yourself! Your started the journey, it's a big step forward! Congrats!

[@angelasnodgrass6621]

I cried last night. I always look around and say “I have to much stuff.” Now I am doing something about it. My friend told me how proud she is of me. I needed that. Then she her husband and son came over and hauled off 36 bags of stuff. Donations and trash. When they went home her husband went up in the attic and got rid of some stuff. She said I inspired him. That’s only because you inspired me. Thank you from all of us.

[@marina3422]

So happy for you to realize what opportunities lay ahead when decluttering. I really find value in knowing what I have and where I have it. Also, I don't need to own a thing just to appreciate it. That's a thought that is really helping me sometimes when explaining myself.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

You are right Marina! There is so much value in knowing what you have.

[@anneperkins85]

Love this series. I'm one month into my minimalism journey, and very much identify with the guilt. Retail therapy was definitely a method I used to avoid dealing with a lot of inner turmoil. But then the walls of my home felt like they were constantly closing in on me. The Minimal Mom channel helped me to see that minimalism didn't have to be Stark dreary neutrals and deprivation. Minimalism can be individual and FREEDOM. So, I'm on a warpath against clutter, but the emotions have caught me off guard, too. I'm focusing on the fact that my "letting go" skills get sharper with every pass. Anyway, looking forward to seeing your continued progress!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thanks Anne! I do follow her. How is your journey going one month in??

[@anneperkins85]

@@EricaLucasLoves It's going good. It's certainly stopped my shopping in its tracks. I've noticed a couple spaces have become so much easier to manage (walk in closet and bathroom counter) because now there's room to put stuff away. The satisfaction that I get from those 2 little victories is helping me to keep going. My end goal is to change my shopping habits and to have a peaceful home that is effortless to clean.

[@elizabethbrundagemediajour150]

I admire your courage in addressing your mistakes and ffacing the fear that haunts us when decluttering. I have a lot of fear in letting items go having a frustrating time. I too have a crawl space full of items and clutter in two small rooms (no garage, no attic for storage). I let go 10 garbage bags of items this week. Thanks for showing an honest large extreme decluttering. You rock !

[@laurastarfirebeauty]

My mom was a horder kept everything when i got married i found out i had a hole trailer filled to top of of it every room it was a storage trailer and a room in her house filled to the top. And she had a big green house about 20 ft was my stuff she stored. Plus my own room and huge closet a size of a bed room. Its been over 10 years and ive gotten rid of so much stuff its crazy. I got overwhelmed but now i have a storage unit and getting my own mess under control. Have about 10 boxes left to look through in the storage and a small closet left its like a million things ive looked through literally. Or more

[@Kayla-wg7gt]

I love what you said about accepting the past and looking forward to the future!! You are so right! You are doing an amazing thing for yourself and your family!

[@barbarahvilivitzky6747]

Fantastic. We are all THERE and we want to be HERE. Thank you for sharing all this with us.

[@savewithcelia]

Wow good job! Minimalism is in the moment. The past doesn’t matter. To not bring new junk in today, and especially to not value it, makes all the difference.

[@susandunn9833]

The clutter did not happen overnight and neither will the declutter. Even after you complete the decluttering process you will likely do it again. I've been decluttering for about 2 years and I am just now reaching a place of contentment. When you have a family especially with children it is hard because it is not just your stuff or your memories. I kept returning to a finished room and re-evaluating. It's also hard as a mom because we have good intentions with making purchases for our kids but they're not always realistic. When you begin to struggle return to the WHY not the how. Another thing is to have one space to dedicate as a zero clutter space. No matter what you keep that space clear and when you begin to feel overwhelmed go to that space and take a break, it helps to relieve anxiety and regain motivation. You are doing great!!

[@CaptainSallyPoo]

So, I started watching your newest videos a few months ago now and this video was suggested to me. I almost wasn't going to watch it because it's from 3 years ago but, then I thought it would also be nice to see where you started. I hope you are so proud of yourself! It is amazing to see this and what to see your reactions to different things, how frustrated you'd get. Which is completely understandable! And then to see where you are today! Seriously so amazing! You're giving me SO much hope 🫶🏼Thank you.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thanks! 3 years ago feels like 100 years now with so much change. Glad you are here with me!

[@MariekeLigtelijn]

After watching celebs and peculiar people talking about morning routines I find your videos reassuringly normal. This is what life looks like ;) keep at it!

[@angie9182]

Im emotional with you. I am also working on forgiving myself of my past, too. Thank you for being so raw and honest.

[@MsYahdahlah]

Thank you for sharing your journey. I don't think of myself as a hoarder but the reality is I am. Thank you for being real and now I know I'm not alone.

[@laurenmanley4616]

Erica...bless you. Just watching you move and process all those emotions makes me sad and happy for you. Sad that you feel so bad about yourself and your past decisions, but so very happy that you are working thru them. The stuff is just a physical manifestation for the emotions. I praise your courage and honesty.

[@dyspraxicrose3307]

Thank you for your honesty! It's so easy to be in denial, but here you are accepting your mistakes and moving on!

[@HelpfulHoney]

You’re awesome! Recognizing you have a problem is tough enough, but actually changing your habits takes a lot of strength and commitment. You are on the right path to change and I wish you well. Remember the clutter and spending habits didn’t occur overnight, so it will take some time to get where you want to be. Also, please don’t be so hard on yourself! We’re conditioned from a young age to want “things”. We’re told “things” will solve all our problems. You recognize now that this is not true and that you can have a full and enjoyable life without all the “things”. Congratulations on the realization. Thanks for sharing your journey in such an honest way! ❤️

[@anaalves3658]

I love the quote about not getting more done, but rather to have less to do 👍👍👍👏👏👏. It seems like there is always something to do if you are a mom🙄, and that means less time to spend doing fun things with your family.

[@Baughmans4JC]

I found your channel after watching your collaboration with the Minimal Mom and can I just say how much I love your transparency?!! I also felt instantly connected to you when I saw your hubby is in the Navy (thank you SO MUCH for your service, Andy!!!) as my son is as well, also serving on a submarine (SSN Montpelier 765, also an LA Class ;) ). I started decluttering just a month ago as I was sick of feeling so overwhelmed and a lack of peace every time I walked in the door. My house is beautiful and I receive compliments all the time, but it's EXHAUSTING trying to keep it up. I love watching your videos in the background while at work. It gives me the inspiration to keep at it every night when I get back home. Best of luck in your new home!

[@Justme-dl4hf]

Be easy on yourself-you are doing amazing!

[@jpinkley1]

I feel your pain. We all are a work in progress. Keep chipping away. You are an inspiration.

[@treasureyourtime]

I’ve watched Pt 1 & 2 now and I’m hoping for more. You are not alone! We just moved to a new house and now that 95% of our belongings are in boxes, it’s so noticeable how much stuff we have. You hoard homeschool stuff and I hoard crafting stuff. We can do this! A more minimalistic lifestyle is within sight and we will get there! Good luck on your journey.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

You can do this!! What’s your plan as you unpack? That’s a great time to purge.

[@tkka2418]

I just found your channel and am loving it. Thank you for your honesty and allowing us to watch your process. Just know you are not the only person who was a "homeschool hoarder ". I, too, am a recovering "homeschool hoarder". Our children are now out of the house and as I look back, so much money was spent when it didn't need to be. I am so glad that you realized this much earlier on in the process than I did. I am now watching a video where you are decluttering your books. This has been the HARDEST part for me. I still periodically go through the books I have kept and am gradually getting rid of them. So many memories and very hard to let go of! Thanks again! I hope your journey will continue to go on and stay simple.

[@Chrissyhappy]

You are very brave admitting the mistakes you’ve made and also very humble to ask your husband for forgiveness. You realise you’ve been making mistakes and it’s a great thing to admit that and apologise for it. He’s a lovely man to forgive and move on. I believe that’s what marriage should look like.❤

[@nancyskinner5207]

You are my inspiration to really get rid of the things that hold me prisoner. I started today with my large collection of thread. My thread, my mother-in-law’s thread, and my moms thread; every color in the rainbow is there and more. I made the box that stored them. Now that’s going to be hard to let go. Oh my!

[@pollycowley631]

Not to give you more projects, but you can go into being a minimalist coach, an author of one of those books, or start the TV show circuit! Truly! Put your guilt in one of those trash bags, girl. WE ARE HUMAN! Minimalize those emotions. It will make your declutter go much faster. How great you took the journey on with full steam! My journey started when I realized that plants bring oxygen, but knick-knacks? Dust. When I cleared out knick-knacks (and remembered one can take a photo for a memory of it) I was free. You da bomb!