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	<title>miss minimalist &#187; My Story</title>
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	<link>http://www.missminimalist.com</link>
	<description>living a beautiful life with less stuff</description>
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		<title>The Miss Minimalist Collection: A Request and a Giveaway</title>
		<link>http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/06/the-miss-minimalist-collection-a-request-and-a-giveaway/</link>
		<comments>http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/06/the-miss-minimalist-collection-a-request-and-a-giveaway/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Jun 2011 06:31:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>miss minimalist</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Declutter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[My Story]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[book]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[minimalist]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.missminimalist.com/?p=2725</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
			
				
			
		
Price: $0.99 <p class="wp-caption-text"> </p>
<p>A little while ago, a reader suggested I publish a “Miss Minimalist” collection of articles on Kindle (thank you, Sara!). Her logic: readers browsing Amazon for books on minimalism might never trip across my blog, and even those that do might prefer reading the articles in book format.</p>
<p>Why hadn’t I thought [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/10/exorcise-your-clutter-ghosts/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Exorcise Your Clutter Ghosts'>Exorcise Your Clutter Ghosts</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/09/no-regrets/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: No Regrets'>No Regrets</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/04/declutter-your-jewelry-box/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Declutter Your Jewelry Box'>Declutter Your Jewelry Box</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
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<div id="attachment_2726" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 234px"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Miss-Minimalist-Inspiration-Declutter-ebook/dp/B0052UYJDC/"><img class="size-full wp-image-2726 " title="mmkbook" src="http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/mmkbook.jpg" alt="" width="224" height="300" /></a><span style="color: #990000;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Price: $0.99</span></strong></span> <p class="wp-caption-text"> </p></div>
<p>A little while ago, a reader suggested I publish a “Miss Minimalist” collection of articles on Kindle (thank you, Sara!). Her logic: readers browsing Amazon for books on minimalism might never trip across my blog, and even those that do might prefer reading the articles in book format.</p>
<p>Why hadn’t I thought of that? As I’ve mentioned before, I love to write, but am not a very good salesperson or marketer. Thankfully, I have wonderful readers to give me a kick in the pants. <img src='http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>So I’ve done just that—I’ve gathered together sixty of my favorite blog posts, and bundled them into a $0.99 Kindle book:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Miss-Minimalist-Inspiration-Declutter-ebook/dp/B0052UYJDC/"><span style="color: #008080;">Miss Minimalist: Inspiration to Downsize, Declutter, and Simplify</span></a></p>
<p><em>(No need to have a Kindle, by the way: Simply <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html/ref=kcp_ipad_mkt_lnd?docId=1000493771">download one of the free Kindle apps</a> from Amazon’s website, and you can read it on your PC, Mac, iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Blackberry, Android, or Windows phone.)</em></p>
<p>Here’s my dilemma: with millions of titles on Amazon, a new book is virtually invisible until people buy it. Once it has some sales, it starts to pop up on various pages (like where it says “Customers Who Bought This Item Also Bought…”), enabling more people to discover it.</p>
<p>So that’s why I’m taking a deep breath, going against every grain of my nature, and asking you for help today.</p>
<p>If you enjoy my blog, I hope you’ll consider buying this Kindle ebook. <strong>The obvious question: if you can read all this on my website, what’s the point?</strong></p>
<p><strong>1. Convenience.</strong> To have a collection of articles that reads like a book, rather than clicking through the archives.</p>
<p><strong>2. Posterity.</strong> To be able to enjoy these writings in the future, even if my blog disappears into a black hole someday.</p>
<p><strong>3. Sharing.</strong> To gift or lend it to friends and family you’re encouraging to simplify (who may be more inclined to read a book than a blog).</p>
<p><strong>4. Outreach.</strong> To spread the word about minimalist living, and attract more people to our little community here. (On Amazon, more sales means more visibility.)</p>
<p><strong>5. Support.</strong> To help me introduce more people to <em>The Joy of Less</em>, and continue writing on this topic.</p>
<p>Rest assured, this is no grand moneymaking scheme; I’ll make about 30 cents for every copy sold. I’m simply trying to increase my visibility on Amazon, and provide you with something of value in the process.</p>
<p><strong>That said, I’m going to put every penny of sales over the next four days into a giveaway: </strong>I would like to thank each of you who buys <em>Miss Minimalist</em> by entering you in a drawing for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Joy-Less-Minimalist-Living-Guide/dp/0984087311/"><em>The Joy of Less</em></a>.</p>
<p>Simply forward your Amazon receipt to me at ag8 AT missminimalist.com. Each email receipt will count as an entry (if you buy or gift multiple copies, send along all the receipts—there’s no limit to the number of entries per person). And don’t worry—the receipts don’t include any sensitive information like credit card details. You’re even welcome to delete out your name and address, if you wish; just make sure I have an email address at which to contact you!</p>
<p><strong>I’ll give away one copy of <em>The Joy of Less</em> for every 25 entries.</strong> (If I get 50 entries, I’ll give away 2 copies; if 75, then 3; and so on…) <strong>That’s a 1 in 25 chance of winning</strong>—not bad, considering my previous giveaways had 300+ entries.</p>
<p><strong>I’ll keep the giveaway open until this Friday, June 10, 5pm EDT.</strong> As always, I’ll choose the winners using the random number generator at Random.org. Winners can choose between a signed print copy or Kindle version.</p>
<p>Okay, a big thanks to all of you for reading and considering this. Believe me, if I could hole up in a cave and write all day—and never give a thought to sales or marketing—I’d do so in a heartbeat. And if someday I don&#8217;t need an income (LOL), that&#8217;s exactly what I&#8217;ll do. In the meantime, however, I have to make some kind of promotional effort to avoid drowning in obscurity.</p>
<p>Therefore, I pray that nobody’s offended by this request—and hope that some of you will choose to purchase my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Miss-Minimalist-Inspiration-Declutter-ebook/dp/B0052UYJDC/">Miss Minimalist collection</a> and participate in the giveaway. Either way, know that I appreciate all of you, and the support you&#8217;ve given me, immensely; I couldn&#8217;t imagine a more fabulous group of readers!</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/10/exorcise-your-clutter-ghosts/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Exorcise Your Clutter Ghosts'>Exorcise Your Clutter Ghosts</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/09/no-regrets/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: No Regrets'>No Regrets</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/04/declutter-your-jewelry-box/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Declutter Your Jewelry Box'>Declutter Your Jewelry Box</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>42</slash:comments>
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		<title>Empty, White, and Beautiful</title>
		<link>http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/06/empty-white-and-beautiful/</link>
		<comments>http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/06/empty-white-and-beautiful/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Jun 2011 08:16:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>miss minimalist</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[My Story]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[minimalist]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[white walls]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.missminimalist.com/?p=2686</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
			
				
			
		
<p>For the first time in months, I feel like I’m back in my element. Let me explain…</p>
<p>My husband and I have been drifting since February—living in a succession of hotels and sublets—because we’re reluctant to commit to long-term housing. It’s an interesting, and liberating, way to live; the only downside is that most short-term housing [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/10/radical-downsizing/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Radical Downsizing'>Radical Downsizing</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/my-tiny-apartment-tour-minimalist-bedroom/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: My Tiny Apartment Tour: Minimalist Bedroom'>My Tiny Apartment Tour: Minimalist Bedroom</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2009/12/minimalist-confession-i%e2%80%99m-an-empty-space-junkie/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Minimalist Confession: I’m an Empty Space Junkie'>Minimalist Confession: I’m an Empty Space Junkie</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
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<p>For the first time in months, I feel like I’m back in my element. Let me explain…</p>
<p>My husband and I have been <a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/05/drifting/">drifting</a> since February—living in a succession of hotels and sublets—because we’re reluctant to commit to long-term housing. It’s an interesting, and liberating, way to live; the only downside is that most short-term housing is furnished, leaving you with little control over your visual environment.</p>
<p>One thing I’ve learned from this experience: my surroundings have a <em>big</em> psychological effect on me.</p>
<p>My last two “homes” both had brightly-colored walls, plenty of pictures and décor, and lots and lots and lots of furniture. Now, don’t get me wrong—these were lovely places that most people would find delightfully warm and charming.</p>
<p>I, on the other hand, could never quite adjust to all the visual stimulation—especially while trying to work from home. How I yearned for one blank wall to rest my gaze upon! It got to the point where I’d close my eyes, and imagine myself sitting in a stark white room—just for a few moments of mental peace and clarity.</p>
<p>Lest you dismiss this as the rantings of a crazy minimalist, scientists have found that <a href="http://unclutterer.com/2011/03/29/scientists-find-physical-clutter-negatively-affects-your-ability-to-focus-process-information/" target="_blank">a visually chaotic environment restricts your ability to focus</a>. I have to say, I wholeheartedly agree!</p>
<p>But before you worry that my blog implodes because of this turn of events, I have happy news to report. This week, we moved into our latest abode, a small one-bedroom sublet in a converted factory. Oh, what a wondrous sight—high ceilings, huge windows, and glorious bare white walls!</p>
<div id="attachment_2688" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 610px"><a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/sumapt-600.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-2688" title="sumapt-600" src="http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/sumapt-600.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Summer sublet</p></div>
<p>And since we’re finishing out the lease of the current tenants, we got a great deal by taking it unfurnished. After four months of navigating around other people’s sofas, tables, chairs, and desks, the emptiness is heavenly.</p>
<p>Overall, the effect is airy, ethereal, and serene—and makes my spirit feel the same.</p>
<p>I&#8217;ll admit, an unfurnished sublet is not the most practical choice. Since we’re only here for three months, and have no idea where we&#8217;ll move next, we won’t be acquiring much. But you know what? I’m looking forward to living this summer with the absolute minimum—a coffee table and a mattress, to be exact—and having plenty of space to do yoga. It’s a little like camping indoors. <img src='http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>Over the next few months, the property manager will be showing the place to potential new tenants. I can’t imagine what they’ll think of our sparsely-furnished space (that we’re strange? poor? on the lam?), but I honestly don’t care. Because at the moment, I am staring at this empty room, with its empty walls—and I can’t stop smiling.</p>
<p>Does anyone else have trouble concentrating in a cluttered room? Do you share my love for an empty, white space? I’d love to hear your thoughts.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/10/radical-downsizing/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Radical Downsizing'>Radical Downsizing</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/my-tiny-apartment-tour-minimalist-bedroom/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: My Tiny Apartment Tour: Minimalist Bedroom'>My Tiny Apartment Tour: Minimalist Bedroom</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2009/12/minimalist-confession-i%e2%80%99m-an-empty-space-junkie/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Minimalist Confession: I’m an Empty Space Junkie'>Minimalist Confession: I’m an Empty Space Junkie</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>65</slash:comments>
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		<title>Drifting</title>
		<link>http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/05/drifting/</link>
		<comments>http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/05/drifting/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 19 May 2011 08:12:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>miss minimalist</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[My Story]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Philosophy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[minimalist]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[moving]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.missminimalist.com/?p=2654</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
			
				
			
		
<p>Drifter {definition}: a person who goes from place to place, job to job, etc., remaining in each for a short period.</p>
<p>Two years ago, when I moved to the UK, I thought it was pretty impressive that I lived out of a duffel bag for six weeks.</p>
<p>Ha! I’ve been doing it now for over three months.</p>
<p>My [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/housing-crisis/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Housing Crisis'>Housing Crisis</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2009/10/born-minimalist/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Born Minimalist?'>Born Minimalist?</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
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			<a href="http://api.tweetmeme.com/share?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.missminimalist.com%2F2011%2F05%2Fdrifting%2F"><br />
				<img src="http://api.tweetmeme.com/imagebutton.gif?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.missminimalist.com%2F2011%2F05%2Fdrifting%2F&amp;style=compact" height="61" width="50" /><br />
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<p><em><a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/drifting-200.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-2655" title="drifting-200" src="http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/drifting-200.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></a>Drifter {definition}: a person who goes from place to place, job to job, etc., remaining in each for a short period.</em></p>
<p>Two years ago, when I moved to the UK, I thought it was pretty impressive that I <a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/2009/11/my-minimalist-story-part-3-my-life-in-a-duffel-bag/">lived out of a duffel bag</a> for six weeks.</p>
<p>Ha! I’ve been doing it now for over three months.</p>
<p>My husband and I gave up our flat in February, and decided we didn’t want to commit to any long-term housing options. Therefore, we’ve been in and out of hotels, sublets, and extended stays ever since.</p>
<p>In two weeks, we’ll be moving into our fifth “home” in less than a year (&#8220;home&#8221; being somewhere we&#8217;ve stayed longer than a month).</p>
<p>Last summer, my home was an 800-square-foot two-bedroom flat. That’s where I <a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/2009/09/less-stuff-more-joy/">started this blog</a>, and wrote <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Joy-Less-Minimalist-Living-Guide/dp/0984087311">my book<em></em></a>.</p>
<p>Last fall, my home was a 390-square-foot one-bedroom with high ceilings and enormous windows. That was my first taste of <a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/400-square-feet-is-the-new-black/">tiny living</a>.</p>
<p>Earlier this year, my home was an extended stay studio with yellow walls, green carpeting, a red sofa, and a small kitchenette. That’s where I filed my tax return.</p>
<p>Right now, my home is a 1200-square-foot apartment in a grand old Victorian mansion. Architecturally, it’s one of the most stunning places I’ve ever lived, but is filled top to bottom with someone else’s stuff. (I fantasize at least once a day about emptying it out and painting it white!) That’s where I’m writing this post.</p>
<p>Next month, my home will be a small one-bedroom in a converted warehouse, in close proximity to a lovely park.</p>
<p>I know it sounds like a royal pain to be always on the move, and hunting for new digs. Fortunately, though, we’ve been lucky enough to find nice accommodations; and moving day has been reduced to stuffing our bags in a cab and taking it across town. To be honest, this nomadic life has been quite easy and carefree—and dare I say, it’s begun to feel “normal.”</p>
<p>I remember when my husband and I bought our house back in 2003. It took about a month before it really felt comfortable to me, before I could walk around in the middle of the night without bumping into things.</p>
<p>Since then, my adjustment period has drastically decreased. Now it takes me all of a few hours, from the time I first plop down my duffel bag, to think of a new place as home—even if it’s furnished with stuff I’d never choose, or the closets are packed with someone else’s clothes.</p>
<p>I’ve become accustomed to (and quite fond of) the fact that the sum total of my possessions are in packing cubes in my duffel bag, a toiletry case in the bathroom, and a handful of cooking implements on the kitchen counter.</p>
<p>I’ve almost forgotten what it’s like to put my clothing in a closet, my books on a shelf, my spices in a drawer, or my lotions and potions in a medicine cabinet. It feels like ages since I’ve slept in my own bed, or received mail at a regular address. I’ve become adept at tracking things down on an as-needed basis: I’ve borrowed office supplies from hotel reception desks, cleaning supplies from housekeeping, and kitchen supplies from various landlords.</p>
<p>Furthermore, I now analyze the portability of every potential possession. I buy shampoo, laundry detergent, and olive oil in the smallest bottles possible. I calculate whether I have room in a packing cube for a new shirt or pair of socks. And yesterday, I passed on buying a bag of flour because I didn’t want the hassle of moving it in two weeks.</p>
<p>Most importantly, though, drifting from place to place has changed my way of thinking. Lately, I’ve been contemplating, <em>do we ever really own anything?</em> Whether it’s books, clothing, tchotchkes, cars, or even houses, things feel radically less permanent to me. In the grand scheme of things, it seems they’re all on temporary loan until we can’t (or don’t want to) use them anymore—at which point we pass them along, or they get passed along for us.</p>
<p>As such, I think material things deserve far less attention than we tend to give them. I’ve become more and more enamored with the notion of the itinerant monk, wandering with only what he can carry and meeting his needs on the go. Sure, I’ll never reach that level, but I like it all the same. <img src='http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>I’ve become acutely aware of how possessions can needlessly complicate things. If I were carting around a houseful of stuff, this past year would have been nothing short of a nightmare. However, it’s been just the opposite: minimalism has made this experience surprisingly pleasant and enjoyable. As someone who thrives on change, I love the novelty of trying out a variety of neighborhoods and living arrangements. I <em>like</em> the idea of not knowing where I&#8217;ll be three months down the road.</p>
<p>I can certainly see the value of having roots, a community, a permanent address. But given our current situation, it’s just not in the cards right now. We’ll likely be drifting for the foreseeable future, and to tell you the truth, I don’t mind a bit.</p>
<p><span style="color: #006666;">{If you&#8217;d like to learn more about minimalist living, please consider reading my book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0984087311?ie=UTF8&amp;amp;tag=missminimalist-20&amp;amp;linkCode=as2&amp;amp;camp=1789&amp;amp;creative=390957&amp;amp;creativeASIN=0984087311"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide</span></a>, or subscribing to my <a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/?feed=rss2"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">RSS feed</span></a>.}</span></p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/housing-crisis/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Housing Crisis'>Housing Crisis</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2009/10/born-minimalist/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Born Minimalist?'>Born Minimalist?</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>47</slash:comments>
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		<title>The Joy of Less Named to Amazon&#8217;s Best Books of 2010</title>
		<link>http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/12/the-joy-of-less-named-to-amazons-best-books-of-2010/</link>
		<comments>http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/12/the-joy-of-less-named-to-amazons-best-books-of-2010/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Dec 2010 14:01:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>miss minimalist</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[My Story]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[book]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[minimalist]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.missminimalist.com/?p=1884</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Wow! I just received an email from a reader, congratulating me on my book being named to Amazon’s “Best Books of 2010.” To be honest, I had no idea what she was talking about – but oh my goodness, it’s true!

The Joy of Less has been chosen as one of the “Top 10 Books” of 2010 in the Home &#038; Garden category. If you scroll down, you’ll see it at #6. I never hoped, nor dreamed, of receiving such an honor—not to mention being in the same company as the likes of Bill Bryson. :-)


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/06/the-miss-minimalist-collection-a-request-and-a-giveaway/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Miss Minimalist Collection: A Request and a Giveaway'>The Miss Minimalist Collection: A Request and a Giveaway</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/07/the-joy-of-less-a-minimalist-living-guide/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide'>The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide</a></li>
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			<a href="http://api.tweetmeme.com/share?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.missminimalist.com%2F2010%2F12%2Fthe-joy-of-less-named-to-amazons-best-books-of-2010%2F"><br />
				<img src="http://api.tweetmeme.com/imagebutton.gif?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.missminimalist.com%2F2010%2F12%2Fthe-joy-of-less-named-to-amazons-best-books-of-2010%2F&amp;style=compact" height="61" width="50" /><br />
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<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1885" title="bestof2010" src="http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/bestof2010.gif" alt="bestof2010" width="120" height="120" />Wow! I just received an email from a reader, congratulating me on my book being named to Amazon’s “Best Books of 2010.” To be honest, I had no idea what she was talking about – but oh my goodness, it’s true!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0984087311?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=missminimalist-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=0984087311">The Joy of Less</a> has been chosen as one of the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html/ref=amb_link_354383582_15?ie=UTF8&amp;plgroup=1&amp;docId=1000628241&amp;pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;pf_rd_s=left-1&amp;pf_rd_r=0S39G0J83KQCPVQ3WMT3&amp;pf_rd_t=101&amp;pf_rd_p=1279095702&amp;pf_rd_i=2486012011">“Top 10 Books” of 2010 in the Home &amp; Garden category</a>. If you scroll down, you’ll see it at #6. I never hoped, nor dreamed, of receiving such an honor—not to mention being in the same company as the likes of Bill Bryson. <img src='http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>I’m pretty shy when it comes to self-promotion, so I hope you’ll excuse my little happy dance here. I poured my heart, soul, and countless hours into writing those 286 pages, with the hope that its message—<em>that less stuff can mean more happiness</em>—would resonate with a few readers. I’m grateful, and truly humbled, that it’s been so well-received.</p>
<p>Most of all, though, I’d like to thank <em>you</em>—every one of you who has purchased my book, requested it from your library, reviewed it on your blog, or recommended it to a friend. <em>You</em> are the reason for its success, plain and simple. <em>You</em> inspired me to write it, <em>you</em> kept me motivated to finish it, and <em>you</em> celebrated with me when I published it. I wish I could give each of you a big hug and thank you personally, as these words I’m typing can’t begin to express my love and gratitude.</p>
<p>In writing the book, I wanted to convey that <em>anyone</em> can live a joyful life with less stuff—you don’t have to ditch your house, travel the world, or live out of a backpack. In fact, the benefits of decluttering can be even more powerful when you’re raising kids, making mortgage payments, and doing the 9-to-5. Simply getting rid of some excess stuff can energize you, liberate you, and change your entire perspective on life.</p>
<p>I thought if that message touched just one person, and helped them live a happier life, it’d be worth all the effort. But thanks to you, it’s touched more people than I ever imagined. Thank you so much for spreading the word, and helping <em>The Joy of Less</em> reach so many. I couldn&#8217;t have done it without you!</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/06/the-miss-minimalist-collection-a-request-and-a-giveaway/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Miss Minimalist Collection: A Request and a Giveaway'>The Miss Minimalist Collection: A Request and a Giveaway</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/07/the-joy-of-less-a-minimalist-living-guide/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide'>The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Radical Downsizing</title>
		<link>http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/10/radical-downsizing/</link>
		<comments>http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/10/radical-downsizing/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 21 Oct 2010 08:40:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>miss minimalist</dc:creator>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.missminimalist.com/?p=1674</guid>
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<p>A little over a year ago, my husband and I were living in a 1000-square-foot, 3-bedroom house with a 2-car garage and postage stamp backyard.</p>
<p>Now we’re living in a 390-square-foot, 1-bedroom apartment.</p>
<p>I have to admit: I loved the idea of such a radical downsizing, but wasn’t quite sure how it’d work out in practice. But [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/06/empty-white-and-beautiful/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Empty, White, and Beautiful'>Empty, White, and Beautiful</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/my-tiny-apartment-tour-minimalist-bedroom/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: My Tiny Apartment Tour: Minimalist Bedroom'>My Tiny Apartment Tour: Minimalist Bedroom</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/02/adding-warmth-and-charm-to-your-minimalist-home/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Minimalist Home: Adding Warmth Without Adding Stuff'>Minimalist Home: Adding Warmth Without Adding Stuff</a></li>
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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="tweetmeme_button" style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;">
			<a href="http://api.tweetmeme.com/share?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.missminimalist.com%2F2010%2F10%2Fradical-downsizing%2F"><br />
				<img src="http://api.tweetmeme.com/imagebutton.gif?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.missminimalist.com%2F2010%2F10%2Fradical-downsizing%2F&amp;style=compact" height="61" width="50" /><br />
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<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1677" title="tinykitchen2-s" src="http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tinykitchen2-s.jpg" alt="tinykitchen2-s" width="250" height="308" />A little over a year ago, my husband and I were living in a 1000-square-foot, 3-bedroom house with a 2-car garage and postage stamp backyard.</p>
<p>Now we’re living in a 390-square-foot, 1-bedroom apartment.</p>
<p>I have to admit: I loved the idea of such a radical downsizing, but wasn’t quite sure how it’d work out in practice. But you know what? So far, we’re functioning perfectly well in about one-third of our former space.</p>
<p>Here are the differences between our former (larger) house and current (tiny) flat:</p>
<p><strong>Former house</strong>: 3 bedrooms<br />
<strong>Tiny flat</strong>: 1 bedroom<br />
<strong>Thoughts</strong>: Having three bedrooms was a lot of wasted space for us. We turned two of them into offices; however, I rarely used mine, preferring to work (on my laptop) in the living room instead. We’ve found one bedroom to be adequate for our current needs, but may opt for two in the future (the extra could serve as an office/guest room/flex space).</p>
<p><strong>Former house</strong>: large, eat-in kitchen<br />
<strong>Tiny flat</strong>: compact kitchen in corner of living room<br />
<strong>Thoughts</strong>: I love having an open-plan kitchen, and the lack of space has been a great disincentive to accumulating excess culinary gadgets and appliances.</p>
<p><strong>Former house</strong>: full-size refrigerator<br />
<strong>Tiny flat</strong>: small, dorm-size refrigerator<br />
<strong>Thoughts</strong>: When we first moved in, I thought the tiny fridge would be a problem – but surprisingly, it hasn’t been an issue at all. We’re a five-minute walk from the grocery store, and have found we prefer spontaneous meal-planning to bulk-buying or stocking up.</p>
<p><strong>Former house</strong>: laundry room<br />
<strong>Tiny flat</strong>: small washer/dryer combo in kitchen cupboard<br />
<strong>Thoughts</strong>: If the unit worked well, this wouldn’t be a problem. However, it’s a temperamental bugger, and I often resort to hand-washing and air-drying rather than fight with it. I really don’t mind, though – there’s a certain simplicity and mindfulness to it.</p>
<p><strong>Former house</strong>: two-car garage, two cars<br />
<strong>Tiny flat</strong>: no parking space, no car<br />
<strong>Thoughts</strong>: My husband commutes to work by rail and foot, and we take the train or bus on our weekend jaunts. We heart public transit!</p>
<p><strong>Former house</strong>: front and back yards, garden<br />
<strong>Tiny flat</strong>: public parks, pot of herbs on the windowsill<br />
<strong>Thoughts</strong>: We miss having a garden (but not mowing the lawn!). For now, we’re content with growing some herbs and frequenting farmers’ markets – but in the future, it would be nice to have a small plot of land.</p>
<p><strong>Former house</strong>: basement full of equipment and tools<br />
<strong>Tiny flat</strong>: shoebox with a handful of small tools (hammer, screwdriver, etc.)<br />
<strong>Thoughts</strong>: Since we’re living in a rental, we’re not responsible for maintenance and repairs; after owning an old house, that’s been quite a relief!</p>
<p><strong>Former house</strong>: two offices<br />
<strong>Tiny flat</strong>: ziplock bag of supplies in a kitchen drawer<br />
<strong>Thoughts</strong>: Most of our work is done digitally, so we really don’t need a roomful (or two) of office equipment and supplies. A few envelopes, paperclips, pens, pencils, tape, etc. have been enough.</p>
<p><strong>Former house</strong>: two bookshelves full of books<br />
<strong>Tiny flat</strong>: a handful of books<br />
<strong>Thoughts</strong>: Ebooks are my <a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/01/why-i-love-ebooks-part-1/">minimalist dream come true</a>. If I can’t get something from the library, I purchase the Kindle version. Since another overseas move is likely in our future, I’m determined not to accumulate physical books.</p>
<p><strong>Former house</strong>: TV<br />
<strong>Tiny flat</strong>: no TV<br />
<strong>Thoughts</strong>: If you own a TV in the UK, you must pay a yearly TV tax. We decided to skip the expense of the TV, cable, and tax by forgoing it altogether. We occasionally watch shows or movies on our laptops (via iTunes).</p>
<p><strong>Former house</strong>: attic<br />
<strong>Tiny flat</strong>: no storage<br />
<strong>Thoughts</strong>: As I say in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0984087311?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=missminimalist-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=0984087311">my book</a>, stuff expands to fill the space available. Having less storage space makes it much easier to be a minimalist!</p>
<p><strong>Former house</strong>: 21 normal-sized windows<br />
<strong>Tiny flat</strong>: 4 enormous windows<br />
<strong>Thoughts</strong>: 17 less windows to clean!</p>
<p><strong>Former house</strong>: doing repairs and maintenance on the weekends<br />
<strong>Tiny flat</strong>: traveling and hiking on the weekends<br />
<strong>Thoughts</strong>: <img src='http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>Overall, I’m really enjoying our tiny-living experience. It’s fascinating to see “how low we can go” and still meet our needs – without many of the things we once considered necessities.</p>
<p>In our consumer society, downsizing is often associated with deprivation. Our experience, however, has been the opposite: living with less has given us an incredible sense of freedom, happiness, and spontaneity.</p>
<p>Have you ever done a radical downsizing (or do you dream of it)? If so, tell us about it in the Comments!</p>
<p><span style="color: #006666;">{If you&#8217;d like to read more about minimalist living, please consider buying my book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0984087311?ie=UTF8&amp;amp;tag=missminimalist-20&amp;amp;linkCode=as2&amp;amp;camp=1789&amp;amp;creative=390957&amp;amp;creativeASIN=0984087311"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide</span></a>, or subscribing to my <a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/?feed=rss2"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">RSS feed</span></a>.}</span></p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/06/empty-white-and-beautiful/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Empty, White, and Beautiful'>Empty, White, and Beautiful</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/my-tiny-apartment-tour-minimalist-bedroom/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: My Tiny Apartment Tour: Minimalist Bedroom'>My Tiny Apartment Tour: Minimalist Bedroom</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/02/adding-warmth-and-charm-to-your-minimalist-home/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Minimalist Home: Adding Warmth Without Adding Stuff'>Minimalist Home: Adding Warmth Without Adding Stuff</a></li>
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		<title>My Minimalist Workspace</title>
		<link>http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/09/my-minimalist-workspace/</link>
		<comments>http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/09/my-minimalist-workspace/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 30 Sep 2010 11:03:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>miss minimalist</dc:creator>
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<p>Today I thought I’d give you a peek at my minimalist workspace – in case you’ve ever wondered, this is where the magic happens.  </p>
<p>From the time I was a child, I’ve never been a fan of desks. When I was young, I used to spread my homework out on the floor; somehow it [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/10/radical-downsizing/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Radical Downsizing'>Radical Downsizing</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/400-square-feet-is-the-new-black/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: 400 Square Feet is the New Black'>400 Square Feet is the New Black</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/01/minimizing-paperwork-print-to-pdf/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Minimizing Paperwork: Print to PDF'>Minimizing Paperwork: Print to PDF</a></li>
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<p>Today I thought I’d give you a peek at my minimalist workspace – in case you’ve ever wondered, this is where the magic happens. <img src='http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>From the time I was a child, I’ve never been a fan of desks. When I was young, I used to spread my homework out on the floor; somehow it felt more expansive, more conducive to creative thought. I was always slightly uncomfortable in schools and offices, where I had to conform to a more proper workspace.</p>
<p>When I moved into my <a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/400-square-feet-is-the-new-black/">new flat</a>, I was thrilled to see the deep, low windowsills – a perfect minimalist office! I love the natural light, and the ability to “people watch” on the street below. And sitting on my cushion puts me into a calm, peaceful mood – helping me achieve a yoga-like mindfulness while I work.</p>
<p>You’ll notice that I don’t have the usual desk accoutrements in my workspace – partly because it doubles as my living room windowsill, and partly because I don’t require much more than my laptop. I do almost all of my work digitally, so really don’t need pens, paperclips, or a stapler standing by. I keep a tiny stash of office supplies in a kitchen drawer, and a folder of essential paperwork in my wardrobe.</p>
<p>I know this setup won’t work for most people, and am certainly not suggesting you adopt it – just giving you a little glimpse into my world, and what works for me!</p>
<div id="attachment_1631" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 610px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1631" title="mm-hminoffice" src="http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/mm-hminoffice.jpg" alt="Miss Minimalist's Workspace" width="600" height="451" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Miss Minimalist&#39;s Workspace</p></div>
<p><span style="color: #006666;">{If you&#8217;d like to read more about minimalist living, please consider buying my book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0984087311?ie=UTF8&amp;amp;tag=missminimalist-20&amp;amp;linkCode=as2&amp;amp;camp=1789&amp;amp;creative=390957&amp;amp;creativeASIN=0984087311"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide</span></a>, or subscribing to my <a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/?feed=rss2"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">RSS feed</span></a>.}</span></p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/10/radical-downsizing/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Radical Downsizing'>Radical Downsizing</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/400-square-feet-is-the-new-black/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: 400 Square Feet is the New Black'>400 Square Feet is the New Black</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/01/minimizing-paperwork-print-to-pdf/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Minimizing Paperwork: Print to PDF'>Minimizing Paperwork: Print to PDF</a></li>
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		<title>My Tiny Apartment Tour: Minimalist Bedroom</title>
		<link>http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/my-tiny-apartment-tour-minimalist-bedroom/</link>
		<comments>http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/my-tiny-apartment-tour-minimalist-bedroom/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 19 Aug 2010 13:04:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>miss minimalist</dc:creator>
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<p>After last week&#8217;s post (400 Square Feet is the New Black), I received quite a number of emails and comments requesting more photos of our tiny apartment.</p>
<p>Today, I thought I’d give you a sneak peak into the bedroom. I feel a little shy inviting thousands of people into this space, but what the heck – [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/01/minimalist-home-white-walls/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Minimalist Home: White Walls'>Minimalist Home: White Walls</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/06/empty-white-and-beautiful/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Empty, White, and Beautiful'>Empty, White, and Beautiful</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/10/radical-downsizing/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Radical Downsizing'>Radical Downsizing</a></li>
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<p>After last week&#8217;s post (<a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/?p=1348">400 Square Feet is the New Black</a>), I received quite a number of emails and comments requesting more photos of our tiny apartment.</p>
<p>Today, I thought I’d give you a sneak peak into the bedroom. I feel a little shy inviting thousands of people into this space, but what the heck – here goes.</p>
<p>To be honest, there’s really not much to see. It measures only 9.75 x 9.25 feet, for a grand total of 91 square feet. Suffice it to say, photographing it was somewhat of a challenge!</p>
<div id="attachment_1383" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 625px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1383" title="minbedroom" src="http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/minbedroom.jpg" alt="Tiny minimalist bedroom" width="615" height="400" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Tiny minimalist bedroom</p></div>
<p>A few notes:</p>
<p>* I know a mattress on the floor is not everyone’s cup of tea, but it works for us. It also makes the high ceilings seem even higher. <img src='http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>* We have no built-in closets, so all our clothes are in these two wardrobes (mine on the left, DH’s on the right). Above each wardrobe, we’ve corralled out-of-season items (sweaters, scarves, gloves) and other extras in white nylon Ikea storage cubes. I like the way they blend into the wardrobes and the walls, and give us a little extra storage space.</p>
<p>* I’m not a huge fan of the carpeting, but when you’re in rented accommodations, you learn to live with less-than-ideal finishes. If it were our own place, I’d choose either dark, wide-plank, weathered wooden floors, or white painted wooden floors.</p>
<p>* Yes, there&#8217;s a distinct lack of color here; but as most long-term readers know, I *love* white (see my posts <a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/?p=436">Minimalist Home: White Walls</a> and <a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/?p=1044">Minimalist Design: White Floors</a>). I particularly like white linens in the summer – so cool, crisp, and refreshing! I’m considering adding a pop of color with a throw pillow; perhaps something in aqua or lavender, with a botanical print. Of course, I welcome suggestions from more décor-savvy readers.</p>
<p>* This bedroom was made for a minimalist – there’s not enough room for a dresser, nightstand, or any other piece of furniture. I love the way it requires one to boil things down to the essentials: a place to sleep, and a place to store clothes.</p>
<p>As I say in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0984087311?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=missminimalist-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=0984087311">my book</a>, I think the bedroom should be the most uncluttered room in the house. It should be a place of peace and serenity, a haven from our hectic lives. But it doesn&#8217;t have to be BIG to serve these needs. By keeping things simple, a small space can provide just as wonderful an oasis for our weary souls!</p>
<p><span style="color: #006666;">{If you&#8217;d like to read more about minimalist living, please consider buying my book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0984087311?ie=UTF8&amp;amp;tag=missminimalist-20&amp;amp;linkCode=as2&amp;amp;camp=1789&amp;amp;creative=390957&amp;amp;creativeASIN=0984087311"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide</span></a>, or subscribing to my <a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/?feed=rss2"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">RSS feed</span></a>.}</span></p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/01/minimalist-home-white-walls/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Minimalist Home: White Walls'>Minimalist Home: White Walls</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/06/empty-white-and-beautiful/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Empty, White, and Beautiful'>Empty, White, and Beautiful</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/10/radical-downsizing/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Radical Downsizing'>Radical Downsizing</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>400 Square Feet is the New Black</title>
		<link>http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/400-square-feet-is-the-new-black/</link>
		<comments>http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/400-square-feet-is-the-new-black/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Aug 2010 12:28:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>miss minimalist</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[My Story]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[apartment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[downsize]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[minimalist]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[small space]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.missminimalist.com/?p=1348</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
			
				
			
		
<p>Last week, I wrote about my Housing Crisis – at the time of the post, my husband and I had four days to vacate our flat and no prospect of new accommodations.</p>
<p>Well, today I have some good news to report: I’m writing this post from our new apartment! With only hours to spare, we found [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/06/empty-white-and-beautiful/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Empty, White, and Beautiful'>Empty, White, and Beautiful</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/10/radical-downsizing/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Radical Downsizing'>Radical Downsizing</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/09/my-minimalist-workspace/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: My Minimalist Workspace'>My Minimalist Workspace</a></li>
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<p>Last week, I wrote about my <a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/?p=1256" target="_blank">Housing Crisis</a> – at the time of the post, my husband and I had four days to vacate our flat and no prospect of new accommodations.</p>
<p>Well, today I have some good news to report: I’m writing this post from our new apartment! With only hours to spare, we found a place, passed the reference check, and signed a lease. I still can’t believe that everything fell into place at the last minute.</p>
<p>What’s even more exciting: our new place will inspire us to continue to live minimally, and provide me with plenty of blog material. Why? <strong>It’s less than 400 square feet (390 to be exact).</strong></p>
<p>In one year then, we’ve downsized from a 1000-square-foot 3-bedroom house, to an 800-square-foot 2-bedroom flat, to our current 390-square-foot 1-bedroom flat. Woo-hoo! I’m excited to explore the challenges of living in such a small space.</p>
<p>The wonderful thing is, it doesn’t feel small; in fact, it feels more spacious than some of the larger flats we looked at. The reason: it has white walls, ceilings over 10 feet tall, and enormous windows that take up the entire front wall of the flat. It’s amazing what a difference these features can make – the whole place seems so light and airy.</p>
<p>Here’s a few pics (one of the front windows, one of the open-plan kitchen in the corner of the living room):</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1349" title="newflat" src="http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/newflat.jpg" alt="newflat" width="600" height="410" /></p>
<p>Some of the challenges we’ll be facing (and I’ll certainly be writing about):</p>
<p><strong>* the complete lack of storage space.</strong> This flat was a conversion, and has no built-in closets. We will have to fit all our stuff into three small wardrobes (I’ll take one, DH will take one, and the third will hold coats, shoes, tools, paperwork, luggage, iron, and all those miscellaneous household supplies that have to go somewhere).</p>
<p><strong>* the tiny refrigerator.</strong> Having a small, dorm-sized fridge (with an itsy-bitsy freezer) will be wonderful inspiration to shop often and cook fresh. I plan to write more about our simple, healthy meals in the future.</p>
<p><strong>* no parking.</strong> Last year, DH needed the car for work, and we found it convenient for exploring the English countryside. Since this flat does not include parking, we’re ready to go car-free! DH will commute by rail and foot (2 miles walking each day), and we’ll be relying on trains and buses to get out of the city and go on our weekend hikes.</p>
<p><strong>So what’s the meaning of the title, “400 square feet is the new black”?</strong> Well, my good friend Tammy Strobel (<a href="http://rowdykittens.com/" target="_blank">Rowdy Kittens</a>), her husband, and their 400-square-foot apartment were featured this week in a wonderful <a href="http://finance.yahoo.com/family-home/article/110275/but-will-it-make-you-happy" target="_blank">New York Times article</a> on living a happy life with less. I’m thrilled to join the ranks of such inspiring, small-space dwellers, and hope to see a trend develop for mindful, “right-sized” living.</p>
<p>My husband and I haven’t lived in this small of a space since college, and we’re excited to come full circle (we always felt the 1000-square-foot house was much too big for us). Fortunately, our lack of stuff has enabled us to move into a lovely space in a great location (if we had more possessions, we’d probably still be looking).</p>
<p>I never expected to live in 400 square feet again, but I’m pretty confident we can make it work. How about you – <strong>how low could you go?</strong> Let me know in the Comments!</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/06/empty-white-and-beautiful/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Empty, White, and Beautiful'>Empty, White, and Beautiful</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/10/radical-downsizing/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Radical Downsizing'>Radical Downsizing</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/09/my-minimalist-workspace/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: My Minimalist Workspace'>My Minimalist Workspace</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>119</slash:comments>
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		<title>Extreme Ways to Save</title>
		<link>http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/extreme-ways-to-save/</link>
		<comments>http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/08/extreme-ways-to-save/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 04 Aug 2010 13:45:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>miss minimalist</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[My Story]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[frugality]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Interview]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.missminimalist.com/?p=1270</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
			
				
			
		
<p>As many of you know, my first book (Frugillionaire: 500 Fabulous Ways to Live Richly and Save a Fortune) is about how to live (and love) a frugal lifestyle.</p>
<p>I enjoy talking about saving money just as much as minimalist living, and was thrilled when writer Melissa Neiman contacted me to request an interview.</p>
<p>The resulting article, [...]]]></description>
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<p>As many of you know, my first book (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0984087303?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=missminimalist-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=0984087303">Frugillionaire: 500 Fabulous Ways to Live Richly and Save a Fortune</a>) is about how to live (and love) a frugal lifestyle.</p>
<p>I enjoy talking about saving money just as much as minimalist living, and was thrilled when writer Melissa Neiman contacted me to request an interview.</p>
<p>The resulting article, <a href="http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/6-extreme-ways-to-go-frugal-and-save-1.aspx" target="_blank">6 Extreme Ways To Save</a>, is the top story on <a href="http://www.bankrate.com/" target="_blank">bankrate.com</a> today. Please check it out, and learn how you can save $10,000 (or more) each year. After all, minimalism and frugality go hand in hand (the less stuff you buy, the more space <em>and</em> money you save!).</p>
<p>Many thanks to Melissa for including me in her fabulous article!</p>
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		<title>The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide</title>
		<link>http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/07/the-joy-of-less-a-minimalist-living-guide/</link>
		<comments>http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/07/the-joy-of-less-a-minimalist-living-guide/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jul 2010 07:57:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>miss minimalist</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[My Story]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[book]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[minimalist]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.missminimalist.com/?p=1146</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
			
				
			
		
<p>Today I have some exciting news to share with you: my second book has been published!</p>
<p>It’s called The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide: How to Declutter, Organize, and Simplify Your Life.</p>
<p>Here’s a look at the front and back covers:</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"></p>
<p>As most of you know, I started this blog after I moved to [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/06/the-miss-minimalist-collection-a-request-and-a-giveaway/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Miss Minimalist Collection: A Request and a Giveaway'>The Miss Minimalist Collection: A Request and a Giveaway</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/12/the-joy-of-less-named-to-amazons-best-books-of-2010/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Joy of Less Named to Amazon&#8217;s Best Books of 2010'>The Joy of Less Named to Amazon&#8217;s Best Books of 2010</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
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<p>Today I have some exciting news to share with you: my second book has been published!</p>
<p>It’s called <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0984087311?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=missminimalist-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=0984087311">The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide: How to Declutter, Organize, and Simplify Your Life.</a></p>
<p>Here’s a look at the front and back covers:</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0984087311?ie=UTF8&amp;amp;tag=missminimalist-20&amp;amp;linkCode=as2&amp;amp;camp=1789&amp;amp;creative=390957&amp;amp;creativeASIN=0984087311"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1153" title="jol-blogcovers" src="http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/jol-blogcovers1.jpg" alt="jol-blogcovers" width="660" height="490" /></a></p>
<p>As most of you know, I started this blog after I moved to the UK—a relocation that involved selling most of my possessions, and starting my minimalist life anew.</p>
<p>Before that, however, <strong>I was in the same position as many of you: I had too much stuff, and wanted to pare down.</strong> My things weighed on me like hundreds of little anchors, draining me of my time, my money, and my energy.</p>
<p>So one day I made a decision: <strong>I stopped buying things, and started to declutter.</strong> And to my delight, what I&#8217;d expected to be a rather onerous task was absolutely exhilarating! I decluttered in the morning, in the evening, on the weekends, and in my dreams. When I wasn’t actually decluttering, I was planning what I could declutter next.</p>
<p>The entire process was an amazing time in my life: with each passing day, I felt a little bit lighter, a little more serene, a little more free. The less stuff I was burdened with, the more possibilities life seemed to hold.</p>
<p>I began to sing the praises of minimalist living to anyone who would listen, and was surprised at the positive response I received. I discovered that a great many people wanted to declutter their homes and simplify their lives—but for the most part, just didn’t know where to start.<strong></strong></p>
<p>That’s why I wrote <em>The Joy of Less.</em> The book is part philosophy, part pep talk, part practical advice—basically, everything you need to know to purge the clutter from your life.</p>
<p><strong>Part One is all about inspiration.</strong> The quotes, stories, and exercises in this section help you develop a minimalist mindset—making it much easier to let your excess stuff go, and keep new stuff from coming in the door.</p>
<p><strong>Part Two outlines the STREAMLINE method: ten sure-fire techniques to rid your house of clutter, and keep it that way.</strong> These steps are my “secret weapon” for achieving, and maintaining, a minimalist home—and I’m so thrilled to finally share them!</p>
<p><strong>Part Three shows you how to give each room in your house a minimalist makeover.</strong> Each chapter tackles a different room: living room, bedroom, home office, kitchen/dining room, bathroom, and storage spaces (garage, attic, and basement). There&#8217;s also a whole chapter on creating a minimalist wardrobe, and another one dealing with gifts, heirlooms, and sentimental items.</p>
<p><strong>Part Four takes this minimalist philosophy beyond the house.</strong> In this section, you’ll learn how to declutter your schedule, and reclaim your time as you did your space. You’ll also discover the far-reaching benefits of living lightly and gracefully on the Earth, and see how saving space in your closets can help save the planet.</p>
<p><strong>Want a sneak peek? <a href="http://www.missminimalist.com/jol-intro.pdf" target="_blank">Click here to read the Table of Contents and the Introduction</a> </strong>(or see the Contents below).</p>
<p>.</p>
<p><strong><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1172" title="jol-toc" src="http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/jol-toc.jpg" alt="jol-toc" width="660" height="506" /><br />
</strong></p>
<p>I assure you that the book is <strong>not</strong> a collection of blog posts, but rather a comprehensive manual for minimalist living. The vast majority of material has not appeared on the blog, and will provide you with plenty of new reading on the subject!</p>
<p><strong>I’d be so honored, and grateful, if any of you decide to purchase the book.</strong> If you’d like to do so, it’s available on Amazon.com:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0984087311?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=missminimalist-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=0984087311">The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide: How to Declutter, Organize, and Simplify Your Life</a></p>
<p>For those of you downsizing your book collections (or outside the US), it’s also available on Kindle:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003UNJX4S?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=missminimalist-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=B003UNJX4S">The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide: How to Declutter, Organize, and Simplify Your Life (Kindle Edition)</a></p>
<p>You don’t need to own a Kindle reader; simply download the free software to your PC, Mac, iPhone, iPod Touch, Blackberry, etc.</p>
<p>Thank you so much for letting me share this with you today. I love to write, but I’m somewhat shy when it comes to selling and promoting my work.</p>
<p>However, I’m very excited about the book, as it sums up all of my thoughts, ideas, and experiences with minimalist living. Furthermore, I feel like you’re all my family—and thought that some of you might be upset if I didn’t tell you about it. <img src='http://www.missminimalist.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>I really appreciate your support of my blog, and hope you&#8217;ll read my book!</p>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="overflow: hidden; position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 533px; width: 1px; height: 1px;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;">As most of you know, I started this blog after I moved to the UK—a relocation that involved selling most of my possessions, and starting my minimalist life anew.</span></div>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2011/06/the-miss-minimalist-collection-a-request-and-a-giveaway/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Miss Minimalist Collection: A Request and a Giveaway'>The Miss Minimalist Collection: A Request and a Giveaway</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.missminimalist.com/2010/12/the-joy-of-less-named-to-amazons-best-books-of-2010/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Joy of Less Named to Amazon&#8217;s Best Books of 2010'>The Joy of Less Named to Amazon&#8217;s Best Books of 2010</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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