Spark Joy

Marie Kondo’s unique KonMari Method of tidying up is nothing short of life-changing—and her first book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, has become a worldwide sensation. In Spark Joy, Kondo presents an in-depth, illustrated manual on how to declutter and organize specific items throughout the house, from kitchen and bathroom items to work-related papers and hobby collections. User-friendly line drawings illustrate Kondo’s patented folding method as it applies to shirts, pants, socks, and jackets, as well as images of properly organized drawers, closets, and cabinets. This book is perfect for anyone who wants a home—and life—that sparks joy

My thoughts: With a new year recently starting, I think that this is the perfect time for this book to come out and inspire people to get control of the clutter and organize personal space so that you can have a home that bring joy. While I don't agree with all of her thoughts (such as thanking items that you have used), I do think that the KonMari method is a great way to maximize space and get rid of useless items that are just cluttering the home up. I think this book is even better than the first (though I think it could be used in place of the first), since there Marie includes pictures to show some of her methods.
Whether you are looking to totally overall and change the way you live, or wanting to take a few ideas and start implementing a few changes, I think this book is a great resource.
I received this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.

Take Ten: Resolutions

Resolutions. Most of us make them this time of year. The book themed ones I make tend to be the ones that I keep the best.;) I will probably throw some of my personal NY resolutions on this list, just to give me a little bit more accountability.:)
1. De-clutter
Sadly, this is partially a book related resolution. I have a library in our house for all of my books, but I need to go through and sort them just to make sure that I don't have more then one copy and that the copy I have is in good condition (the latter applies more to our kids books, since I know a few of them are missing pages or have been slobbered on a bit too much).

2. Get somewhat caught up on my Netgalley reading
My shelf has gotten a bit out of control on there, since I don't *have* to finish the books that I've requested in the past in order to keep getting books. It's kind of a bad set up for me, since I need more accountability.;) It's unrealistic to say I will ever get totally caught up, but having over 50 books on my shelf is just a bit much...:)

3. Eat better
I know a lot of us feel the need to make this resolution, especially after all the holiday goodies. I want to basically cut artificial sweeteners out of my diet and start using honey or maple syrup in my own baking/cooking.

4. Find a exercise regime I like and stick with it
I found a book for 15 minute workouts that fit well into my schedule. I just kept having to return the book to the library.;) I need to figure out if I should buy that book to have on hand all the time or go with a DVD instead. What are some of your favorites?

5. Go back and finish the Christiansen family series by Susan May Warren

I really wanted to read Amelia's story before reading Owen's, but wasn't able to get my hands on a copy of The Wonder of You until after reading You're the One that I want. Such is life. I've really enjoyed the series, even if I have read some of it out of order.;)

6. Find some new recipes to try
We recently had an Indian themed potluck, which was so much fun since it made me get out of my comfort zone (cooking wise) and try something new. Needless to say, now I want to try making a bunch more Indian dishes.;)

7. Do something new
Preferably once a day.;)

8. Organize all the toys in our house
Don't get me wrong, I am appreciative of all the gifts my children receive at Christmas, but it feel the need to organize and share (my sister was just thrilled for this to carry over to her, since I pulled out several bags younger toys for her little one to play with. At their house. lol).

9. Be a better friend
I get so wrapped up in what is happening in my corner of the world, that I forget to keep up with friends until I either see them or it hits me that I am feeling friendless. I have the privilege of knowing some great people, so I need to make the most of it.;)

10. Finish The Gifting by K. E. Ganshert

The good news is, I actually have all the books on my Kindle now! *squee*

What resolutions are on your list?