Author: Ashlee Gadd
Length: 251 pages
This book is equal parts beautiful, inspiring, and motivating. It was like a balm for my soul that I didn't realize I needed.
First, it's beautiful. It feels more like you're reading lots of blog posts rather than a book. Blog essays are @ashleegadd's bread and butter (or coffee and crumbs, if you will) and I love that the book is laid out like this. The photography, book mark, and page layouts are so aesthetically pleasing that opening Create Anyways just makes you happy.
Second, it's inspiring. Ashlee is a master storyteller and weaves biblical truth along with practical advice into each chapter. I loved how she interviewed and featured several other creative moms throughout the book. It was encouraging to see other moms pursuing creativity and made me feel less alone in my efforts.
Lastly, It's motivating. I recently have come to a stand still on most of my creative endeavors. I hit this point where trying to pursue creativity in the midst of homeschooling, homesteading, and homemaking just didn't feel worth it anymore. I traded creativity for productivity. While my house may have been a little cleaner, things felt flat without the joy of creating. This book gave me the kickstart I needed to get going again.
I think my favorite part was the creative exercise and writing prompt at the end of each chapter. It's easy to read a book and then never put any of it to use. Those prompts helped me slow down and really think practically about how to move forward.
Favorite Quote: "When we engage in creative acts, when we write and draw and plant seeds in the dirt, when we create lovely things that point back to the goodness of our Maker, we are giving an account of the hope that is in us."
If you are a creative mama, this book is for you! You can purchase it using my affiliate link here.