The second half of this book resonated with me much more than the first, and improved my final rating. I found her practical application advice invaluable, so this book was a great time investment for me. ( )

The Fringe Hours describes itself as being a book that teaches women how to get rid of the guilt and find the time to pursue their own passions. Although I enjoyed this book and certainly found some useful tools that I can implement into my life, I didn’t love it; it was only ok for me. I was really hoping for something truly refreshing, one of those “Ah Ha!” moments where I say to myself “that’s what I’ve been doing wrong all these years!” and “this is what I need to do to change that behavior” and unfortunately, I just didn’t get that. I do like Jessica Turner’s concept of taking and using the hours and minutes that are on the edges of our life, rather than just reorganizing the scheduled time we already have. But beyond that, most of what I read wasn’t anything new, at least not to me. I was also expecting this book to be one that was universal to all women and mothers, from all backgrounds, but there was a distinct religious undertone right from the start. This didn’t bother me, but I was surprised as there was no mention of this in the book’s description. I can see where some people would be bothered and turned off by this.

Although it’s not groundbreaking in content, The Fringe Hours is well written and does offer its readers some very practical, sound advice. You can tell that author, Jessica Turner, is very passionate about what she writes and her belief in a guilt free life is one we can all aspire for. I certainly have friends that I will recommend this book too; however, I will be selective in my recommendations as this book’s underlying religious tones are not for everyone.

**I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the publisher, Revell and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review**
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Tuesday, March 17, 2015
The Fringe Hours: Making Time for You by Jessica N. Turner, © 2015

Just because something is a good thing doesn’t mean it is good for this moment in your life.
--The Fringe Hours: Making Time for You, 31

So much wisdom in this statement. We think we have to do it all. The seasons in your life will bring many pleasures. Don't get knotted in the "woulda', coulda', shoulda', oughta'" regrets and looking back, wishing a do-over. Enjoy your today, where you are. Don't sacrifice family for multitasking activities and others' to-do-list requests. Once. Your family will be at this stage of time, once. Overcommitment robs you of n~o~w.

Choose joy.

Recognize and embrace what God has created in you ~ gifts and talents, and a desire to pursue what you are passionate about. Jessica surveyed 2,000 women and compiled responses, sharing priorities including refreshment optimum to health for you and your family ~ committing to include yourself in rest and what you enjoy. Time is going to continue whether you wish to, or do set aside moments. Being intentional on how you spend your time ~* your fringe hours *~ little pockets of time, on purpose.

Why We Need Community: Making time for you is not always about making time to do something by yourself. It is also important for women to be in community.

The Fringe Hours: Making Time for You ~ So many woman-to-woman topics ~ making a change to eliminate time wasters; cultivating balance; recognizing what really matters; prioritizing relationships; living in your season. Benefits worth sharing. Her website has a free weekly time tracker to use as a regular personal resource to help you find, plan, and maximize your fringe hours.

Live a life of joy.

***Thank you to Revell for sending me a copy of Jessica N. Turner's The Fringe Hours: Making Time for You. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.*** ( )