Posted in Book Reviews

The Velveteen Mommy
by Jenn Doucette

As I picked up this book the very cover just warmed my heart.  The title brought immediate rememberances of reading The Velveteen Rabbit as a child and then to my own children.  That warm little worn rabbit that had been loved so much his hair was gone and his eye missing will forever stay in my memory.  I even have a teddy bear that is my own version.  I loved the way that Jenn brought out the comparison of my own life as a mommy to that of the loved little rabbit. 

She had me from the very introduction of the book.  As I read I found many emotions moving through me.  I found myself shaking my head in agreement, talking out loud in an "amen sister" fashion, laughing out loud and really "knowing" what she was describing in the baby, toddler and preschool years - the late night feedings and the potty training.  It all came washing back as I read.  I love how she showed me that I could laugh at all of that.  I was brought to tears as the words she shared from stories in the Bible rang so true in my heart.  She shares lots of scripture to encourage and teach us where we live and breath.  This book has it all - the  funny stories, the poignant devotional text, the companionship of another mother, a friend in Jenn as we read about her experiences.  She is certainly someone I could have coffee with!  She is very real especially when she is up to her elbows in the toilet (you have to read the book to know more...).

My favorite quote comes from chapter 8

If I have to endure suffering to experience spiritual Realness and leave a legacy of love and sacrifice, then bring it on.  When it's my turn for a display to honor my life, I want it to include a ratty, well-worn Bible.  I want my family to remember my laugh lines and stretch marks, the sacrifices made to bring them into the world.  I want them to know I loved them more than myself and that I had no regrets.  Jenn Doucette

This book was so delightful!  I think every mother would enjoy it.  It is not a long methodical text but something you could pick up and enjoy one bite at a time as you have the time.  It is definitely mommy oriented with mommy topics and stories.  It would be a wonderful gift as well as a wonderful personal buy.  Jenn Doucette is living the life that so many of us can relate to in a very personal way.  She is ministering to our hearts in a way that only a fellow mommy in the trenches can.  Do yourself a favor and pick this one up.  You won't be disappointed!!!



Ok, so I had to add one more quote and stress the fact that I totally get this woman!!!

"You realize, of course, that it's all about the snack.  It's not the cool uniform, leather glove, real cleats, or even winning.  It's what the 'Mom of the Day' brought for the kids to eat after the game."

Well, here is how I know that, too... ROFLOL!!!  Jenn Doucette has been spying on my life...  I so loved this book!!!!!