Family mementos are very tricky, because they carry so much emotional history, and they can take up a lot of space. Clutter clearing doesn't mean you have to get rid of them all. It means being thoughtful about what you are keeping, and why. The most important thing is that you go through each of those boxes and see what's in there.
Maybe you will end up getting rid of 80% of it; maybe you'll end up keeping 90%. How much you decide to keep is less important than the process of deciding -- which is the only way to ensure that everything in your home (and in all those boxes) is still there for a reason.
This process might not be speedy! Take lots of breaks, and pamper yourself. Drink lots of water. For each hour spent sorting, or for each box you clear, reward yourself with something you enjoy... an evening stroll around the neighborhood, or a half-hour in the garden. The more challenging the clutter task, the more important it is to have a reward or incentive in mind.
"When I came across things that had belonged to my parents and grandparents, I almost cried. I closed the cupboard doors and took a much needed break, a cup of tea and an apple and a little talk with myself did the trick. I may not have my loved ones with me any more but I do have many wonderful memories. No one can take those from me.....ever, and I really don't need "things" to remind me of those who have passed on. Sometimes mental pictures can bring smiles and even out loud laughs that only you can enjoy because your memories are private and no one can take them from you."~ Clutter-Free Forever! support group member
