the bottomless pit

my biggest rival in my quest for order is, without a doubt, toys.  piles and piles of toys.
for years i have struggled with this beast. and it continues to defeat me. personally, i find the whole situation a bit maddening. i've read the magazine articles and organizing books, watched the programs on HGTV and TLC, talked to friends and family, had pep talks with the kids. all to no avail.

here's the situation: i have three children. all girls. ages 9, 7 and 4. and they share a modest sized room. and they like it messy.
i have actually overheard conversations between my daughters' about liking it messy. from my 7 year old in particular. 

so, i'm the mom and i'm in charge, so i'm told... how do i regain control without getting rid of all their stuff?  my biggest beef with kids' stuff has got to be all the pieces and parts. bits and bobs. especially girl stuff.

one part of the problem that makes it difficult for me on a personal level, most all of their belongings were gifts from extended family and loved ones. 
i have discreetly requested a number of times that any future gifts be things like school supplies, fun & funky socks, sleepwear & slippers, bathroom stuff- basically, things that can be fun & practical. 

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