Among my new years resolutions this year is to simplify. Life can become so complicated and can speed -up to a dizzying pace almost before you even realize what is happening. Everything we come across seems to fight for our attention and there never seems to be enough time to go around. That is the trap that I sometimes find myself caught in.
On the other hand, when I slow down I find that I enjoy my days more. It seems as if I have more hours in the day and I am far more pleasant to be around. Two books that I have found that are bringing me joy so far this year are “52 Lists for Happiness” and “Scandinavian Gatherings”. They have that slow and simple feel that I yearn for and both focus on something that I adore: lists and scandanavian baking. The “52 Lists” book is especially effective for me in simplifying because it strips journaling down into the bare essentials and hardly takes any time from my week, yet it can have a big impact. I included a brief synopsis of each below in case you, like me, can find some joy in them.
“52 Lists for Happiness: Weekly Journaling Inspiration, Positivity, Balance and Joy” by Moorea Seal
There are 52 weeks in a year and 52 lists in this book. That means that it is meant to be done weekly. Each entry has a prompt for you to create a list, such as a list of the things that make you happy. Then at the end of each entry is a “call to action” where you are challenged to do one small thing to change based off of the list. I love that all of these lists help me to focus on the positive in my life as well as simplifying and prioritizing my time. Also, the invitation at the end is perfect to help this process actually influence my life for the better. Seriously, it is fantastic and it totally fits my personality type as well as my list-loving obsession. Even though we are a ways into the year, it is not to late to start this journal because you could do it for a year starting now. There are no dates attached, just the number of the week you are on. Give it a try!
Click here to purchase “52 Lists for Happiness” *affiliate link
“Scandanavian Gatherings: From Afternoon Fika to Midsummer Feast: 70 Simple Recipes and Crafts for Everyday Celebrations” by Melissa Bahen and Paul Lowe
This book is a feast for the eyes that I cannot wait to try out to create a literal feast. It is a book that shares different decor and recipe ideas for hosting Scandinavian themed parties/event for several different specific Scandinavian holidays. Each DIY decor idea has great instructions and photos to simplify the process as well as an incredibly helpful reference section in the back with a list of places where you can find specific supplies as well as templates that you can copy off for some of the projects. I am personally in love with so many of them that I cannot decide which to try first, the felt garland or the wooden house place holders. Then there are the recipes, oh the recipes. Each one makes my mouth waster. However, I think the blueberry custard pie is calling my name the most…
Click here to purchase “Scandanavian Gatherings” *affiliate link
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