I can’t remember the last time I was bored. Life’s responsibilities keep me busy enough, but there are also people I want to spend time with and plenty of hobbies to occupy my time.
I almost didn’t sign up for “The Fringe Hours: Making Time for You” launch team because I knew I didn’t struggle to find things I like to do. Turns out Jessica Turner’s new book isn’t just about how women should have hobbies.
“The Fringe Hours” is about making the most of the time you do have for the well-being of your soul. {Tweet that.} Jessica Turner calls the pockets of time – while we wait for an appointment, after the kids are in bed, the moments in the school pick up line – “fringe hours.” They look different for each person, but we all have them.
Give me a book to read, photos to scrapbook, or an idea to blog and I’m happy camper. I have monthly massages scheduled. I have lunch with friends, although there are a couple I’d prefer see more. I walk regularly – either on the treadmill with the “Gilmore Girls” or laps at the arena or park with my best friend. I like board games and am teaching my kids to do the same.
But as I read “The Fringe Hours,” I realized I defend my schedule to myself and sometimes others. I apologize to my husband for how I spent my time. (He has never made me feel guilty for reading a book instead of washing dishes.) I cling tightly to my work-before-play mentality.
Y’all, there is always a chore to complete, a closet to organize, or some errands to run. (Although I run less errands these days, thanks to ePantry and Amazon Prime Pantry. The decision to order household products and some groceries online has created more fringe hours for myself at home.)
But it’s okay to not do all the work today. It’s okay to play without having to defend – even to myself – why it’s good for me.
Realizing this comes as God is teaching me about joy. I’m choosing joy in the small moments that make up life.
“The Fringe Hours” reminded me how caring for my soul matters. This life isn’t perfect and never will be. But I can find joy in everyday moments when I slow down and notice what God is doing around me – even when I play. {Tweet that.}
How do you like to spend your fringe hours?
This book officially releases Feb. 17, but you can preorder it from Amazon or DaySpring. At DaySpring, you can get free shipping if you order two copies ($10.99 each right now) using BLOOMBOOK at the check out.And the first 500 people get autographed copies. There are other cute #FringeHours inspired products too. Jessica Turner and her friend and fellow author Angie Smith are going to study “The Fringe Hours” for their last book study at (in)courage.
You can also learn more about the book at its official website, where you can read the first chapter.
I received a free, advance copy of “The Fringe Hours” for being part of the book’s launch team, but these opinions are my own and I’ve already ordered two additional copies to gift to friends. This post includes affiliate links.
I’m linking up this post with Jessica Turner’s first Fringe Friday, where women are sharing how they spend their fringe hours, and the Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood Gathering, where I’ve been learning about the power of resting and slowing down.
Want more insights? “Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family” is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin’, or subscribe to receive “Insights in Your Inbox.”
I have not heard of the term "fringe hours" but I love it! Sometimes I feel guilty for doing something fun when my to-do list seems endless. BUT…I understand that doing something just for the pure enjoyment of doing it is not only OK, it's necessary. The time that we set aside to take care of ourselves, rejuvenate our souls, rest our minds helps us to get all the other "stuff" done.
I get that. 🙂 I've been using our library some lately too, especially for fiction books. I'm on a fiction kick right now. Fringe Hours was good for me. Hope you've had a great weekend. Love you, Beth!
I hadn't heard the term "fringe hours" before either, but the book was so good for me to gain perspective about what matters and WHY taking care of myself (including my soul!) is good for the other people and roles God has called me to. I'm glad to see you here, Laura!
Thank you so much for your kind words. So glad that you were encouraged.
You're welcome! Thanks for writing a book that encourages women well.
"It's okay to not do all the work today." I love that line, that truth. Revolutionary for a type-A mama like me!
I remind myself regularly, Kelly! 🙂
I cannot wait to get this book! I'm going to head over there now. You know, it's always good to read things about self-care because I need constant reminders!
You'll like it. Let's talk about it more when you're finished! 🙂 We have snow days the rest of the week – I hope to scrapbook more and clean less. 🙂
I loved the book as well, and was so thankful for the opportunity to be part of the launch team. I was telling my husband about the book and he laughed because he is always telling me to take time for myself. I, too, am the one constantly working on my to do list. Jessica is helping me make a life shift.
This book came at a really good time for me. God's been working with me on seeing what matters and choosing joy in everyday life. Jessica's word spurred me on toward what God has been doing, which is really neat. (Although I shouldn't be surprised God works like that!) Thanks for coming by here, Kristen!
Great tips about time management and ePantry. I looked at it. Looks like really reasonable prices, but my husband would rather buy from traditional stores. I posted my review Tuesday. I enjoyed it a lot and love being on the launch team too.
We live in a small town with limited traditional store options. I love our local grocery store, but I'd rather not have to go to Walmart anyway. 🙂 I've enjoyed the launch team too – happy to connect with you!