Keep What You Love

i don't think i'm using this book right. i'm a sucker for cute, retro and unique, character etc.the illustrations are really cute and i've actually found several things in this book that I want to buy the next time i go thrifting. oh well! i love the book still, it's tiny, which makes it even cuter imo.

This is not your typical how to book but more of a think about it book. Instead of lists there are adorable little illustrations. My favorite is the plastic goose lamp as I think we have one in our attic! Will this work in clearing out some clutter? If we try with even some of the illustrations we'll be on our way. The goose lamp will have to go!

This book lists things you might want to declutter, and asks the question, "Do I really need it?" Each little page lists one thing, (an empty shoebox, old board games, nuts and screws, enough linens to stock a hotel, old phones, a breadmaker, holiday dinnerware, blank notebooks, and dozens more) and underneath it are checkboxes for "Yes" or "No".After every five or six decluttering items, there is a little snippet of advice about decluttering, living more minimally, and letting go of the emotions surrounding your possessions. The tips and advice are interspersed throughout the book, so I would recommend reading all of those first, and then going back and actually doing the declutter items checklist.The great thing is you don't HAVE to declutter or get rid of any of the items. You just have to ask yourself, "Do I really need it?" If you answer "Yes", and you have a real reason why you love the item and use it, then you can keep it with confidence. If you answer "No", then you can donate or trash the item with a clear conscience.I love that focus of this book is on what you want to keep, not on what you are throwing in the trash. The whole attitude toward decluttering is purposeful, and that's what minimalism really is... being intentional about your possessions.The writing style is encouraging and positive, with lots of funny little witticisms. Some of the items are really funny but also relatable, because we all have some weird lamp, souvenir snow globe, old cassette tapes, novelty pencil sharpener, or dorky item we won at a fair or carnival.The illustrations are what make this book really special! There are little drawings of each decluttering item, some of them showing the wear and tear on the clothing, and the dirt or grime on the item, and the holes in the socks, and how the silverware is tarnished. The artwork is so whimsical and sweet! I love all the designs in this book!Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts and are not influenced by anyone.

This is the most darling little book. It would make a wonderful house warming or birthday gift. It is mostly illustrations, but does have pages of text every handful of pages. I adore all FLOW books and am glad to be adding it to my collection.Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts and are not influenced by anyone