I just wanted to come back and mention that I finally had the chance to watch the video in the article that shootingstar originally posted.

Our goal is the same as the goal of the guys in the video. We want to downsize and cut back on all but the essentials. BUT, at the same time, my home is also my escape and when the only rural small sf options are 30 year old trailers or uninsulated shacks with sagging roofs, you have to draw the line somewhere.

Like I originally said, while our house is 1700 sf, I WANT to live in a much smaller space. We have now 'downsized' 3 times (each time we've moved as a couple) and expect to continue to do so. I will mention that while not having lots of extra 'stuff' is good...not having any space in which to store food is bad - particularly if you live in the country. My pantry is probably half the size of that guys whole house!