Normally when I read a book for review purposes, I try to get the review done within 30 days. It's just fair. But this book, Having a Martha Home the Mary Way, I needed to get under my skin. I needed a big life change in the way I keep my house. So, I lived the book, completing each day's written and practical tasks; but (embarrassed face) it took me way more than 31 days. It actually took me (embarrassed face) about three months.
Now, be kind to me. First of all, my house isn't a hoarder's paradise or a clutterer's camp. My kitchen, bathroom, and living room are generally picked up. My kids each have daily chores, the laundry basket rarely overflows, and bedding gets changed on a regular basis. I've just found it hard to get to the beyond-the-superficial stuff because of those darn kids and our busy schedules. And, sometimes, laziness. Laziness is real when you're tired.
Second, we not only were finishing up a tough homeschool year, we were also in the midst of wedding planning (our second in 10 months), so there were days at a stretch when I didn't have time to sit down and read, journal, and clean. But that's just the point of the book: life happens, so give yourself a break and live it. To paraphrase Jesus, the laundry you will always have with you; weddings you will not.
I think I may adore Sarah Mae, because she made me WANT to make changes in my home. She helped me create a vision for what I want my home to look like and figure out day by day (or, day by every few days) simple, progressive ways to get there. After going through this book and making its principles my new reality, my house is shaping up and it's just onward from here. Best of all, the wedding's over (it was beautiful, thanks for asking), school is out, and the household schedule settled.
If you would like to know more about Sarah Mae, go here.
I received this book free of charge from Tyndale Publishers in exchange for a fair (if tardy) review.
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