7: an Experimental Mutiny Against Excess by Jen Hatmaker

 Small problem. I've read several books lately that I haven't blogged about yet, and then I had gall bladder surgery. I am having a hard time remembering what some of those books are that I've read. I think part of my brain was removed with my gall bladder. Perhaps it was hanging out with my gall bladder and got caught in the process.

But I have no problem remembering this book. I loved it!

Jen Hatmaker decided to do something about the excess in her life. So she chose seven areas in her life to cut back on. For one month each she "fasted" in those areas.

Food: Jen ate only seven foods for one month.
Clothing: Jen wore only seven articles of clothing for one month (she is a public speaker, so this required some creativity)
Possessions: Jen gave away seven items a day for one month.

That's just the beginning. Jen documents each month, and her feelings and reactions to giving up each area of excess. She is witty and thought-provoking. She is never preachy. She just shares her experience. If I hadn't borrowed the book, I would have been underlining parts of it like crazy.

It made me sit up and take notice, and look at the excess in my life. It made me want to get rid of that excess--not just get rid of it, but find where it can be put to good use.

In general the only non-fiction I am fond of are biographies. This is a big exception. In a funny way it reminds me of The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin. Both books have inspired me to find ways of cutting out or adding to my life to make me happier.