A Homemade Year (book review and a giveaway!)

Grab a cup of coffee or hot tea and settle in friends. I'm happy to be doing a book review today that I know will bless you.  Can I first say something?  Anytime I do a review, or promote someone's business or blog it's because I've asked, not the other way around.  I've thought long and hard about sponsored posts and they're just not for me.  So each person or product I bring to the blog is because I really want you to know about it! Not because I'm getting something in return.

Although A Homemade Year has definitely brought something in return to me, just not money-wise.  It's blessed my life in a way beyond what money can buy.

A Homemade Year: The Blessings of Cooking, Crafting, and Coming Together (found here!) is one of my top favorite books. Ever.  And that is definitely saying a lot.   Amazon.com describes the book as-"This gorgeously-designed book is a guide to celebrating the rhythm of life's calendar of events, as well as the Christian liturgical year, focusing on God's love in our lives.  Greer weaves her own faith story with original recipes, crafts, and entertaining ideas, creating a vibrant, personal narrative that is a modern take on timeless traditions." 

I stumbled upon this book before it was released, on Amazon.com and was captivated by the gorgeous photography. It's colorful (which I love) and looked like a fun read.  I mean, I live for crafting and coming together!  I also thought it was neat that the author was from Arkansas.

Fast forward to receiving the book.....I was right, the photography and styling of the book are gorgeous.  But if you only notice that-you're missing the best part........the writing.  Jerusalem's writing gets to me.  Here's how I know when I've stumbled upon a gem, whether it be music or writing.  If tears pool in my eyes-I've struck gold.  I like things, people, books, and music that make me feel.  Isn't it wonderful to be human and feel?  A lot of times with "christian" books the same 'ol cliche phrases are used and real honesty-passed over.  This is not one of those books.

More than anything, Jerusalem is a story-teller.  She tells in vivid detail struggles, pain, and loss she's dealt with.  She also recounts the thread of grace that's held the story of her entire life together.  She writes passionately about the immense beauty our lives are made of.  There is truly beauty to be found in brokenness.   As you read you find yourself feeling like you're chatting with a best friend, able to let your real self show also.  Jerusalem's writing is a safe place.  She weaves stories of God's beautiful grace in all parts of our lives within the explanations of the liturgical year.  Prior to reading A Homemade Year I  wasn't familiar with the liturgical year.  After reading I have a stack of ideas on how I can incorporate true, meaningful experiences with my family and friends into my life while keeping the main focus on Christ.

A Homemade Year is creative without being a cliche,
it's like settling in with a favorite colorful quilt,
it teaches how to embrace meaningful gatherings and crafts, without glorifying the busy,
and most importantly it's about gathering.  Gathering our broken pieces and beautiful ones, friends. Gathering courage, healing, hope.

I so hope you'll read this book.  I think you'll find you have pages you go back to time and time again.  I know I sure do. So much so it lives on my dining room table.  

Here's the exciting part!! I asked Jerusalem if I could write about her book,

and after saying yes-she asked if I wanted to give a copy away (uhhh-yeah!!)

SO, leave a comment below for your chance to win a copy of A Homemade Year! I'll pick the winner Friday night! :) 

Also, you can find Jerusalem's blog here!
AND, if you're in the Little Rock area (arkansas) she's started a new crafting community with gatherings and all, that you can find more about here. Blog: Camp Lovely, Facebook: Camp Lovely Facebook

K, now enter the giveaway for your own copy of A Homemade Year