Inside the home of a hoarder

I didn't know what to expect when I walked into my neighbor's home. The first feeling that gripped me was that of utter fear. "What if I can't help her. Lord! What have I gotten myself into?" But I was pleasantly surprised that despite the fact that she is a hoarder, there is light, fresh air and living space left in her home. She is very clean so for me there was an immediate disconnect. I kept wondering how a person who has a cleaning lady is unable to throw away stuff. She explained that she simply cannot throw away anything. She must have noticed the puzzled look on my face. As we went through the house, there were neat piles everywhere. The finished basement had piles of anything and  everything you can think of. Beautiful household items that has bought and collected over the years. The hallways had beautiful artwork by none other but her. I was very impressed. She is very talented. Her children's rooms had more stuff. Her children are grown and have moved out since, which gives her more room to collect things. When the tour was over, she asked me if I was still up to it and with great enthusiasm, I said yes. The ball is in her court. I am waiting on a date to embark on what I believe is going to be a remarkable journey of not just de-cluttering a house but building a friendship and making a difference in someone's life. Thats what life should be all about. She is so lovely, so sincere, and so welcoming that it is my pleasure to do this. I have no doubt in my mind that she would do the same for me. By the way, don't let her age fool you. She is extremely active, voluteers and is involved in so many activities that you wouldn't know she is 68. I have actually started riding my bike to keep up with her. She is a force to be reckoned with but I am up for the challenge :)