I've seen the TV show "Hoarders" and it always seems that these folks have some sort of psychological issue that leads them into hoarding, such as the loss of someone important to them, not having very much when they grew up, etc.

It could be, as you suggest, that you just got overwhelmed with all what went on in your life, so you didn't get around to cleaning up. To me (not that I am an expert), the fact that you cleared things out on your own and are very concerned not to be a hoarder suggests that you aren't someone who will be prone to keep piling things up.

I know what you mean about having too many things and not needing a lot of additional stuff for Christmas. I have been busy trying to get rid of a lot on my extra loot lately, too.