Review: The Magnolia Story by Chip & Joanna Gaines

Chip and Jo Gaines are one of the most renowned couples in the home improvement television business. Their famous line "Are you ready to see your fixer upper" sends chills of excitement down the spines of viewers around the world. From Chip's quirky personality and Jo's phenomenal design taste, they have quickly won the hearts of their fans.

This book shares their journey from struggling newlyweds just trying to keep their heads above water to a couple who has warmed the hearts of fans.

I don’t know about you, but events as of late have had me in a reading funk. I was scrambling for a book to keep my attention when I saw this one sitting next to my reading chair, beckoning me.

Within just a few moments I forgot what was going on in the world around me and instead was wrapped up in the heartwarming, challenging, quirky, but most of all, hopeful and loving, world of Chip and Jo Gaines.

Most of us know them from their highly successful television series, but not about their lives as they lead up to it.  I found myself giggle as Jo retold the story of their meeting, their first date, and their wedding.  It’s told largely from her perspective, with Chip jumping in every now and then telling his side of a story or adding additional information.

My takeaway? Sometimes we need to step away from the craziness of the world around us an immerse ourselves in what is most important: love, happiness, and family. The Gaines didn’t start out wealthy or successful in the least, but it was this lesson, this reminder to focus on family first, is what actually led to their success.

This simple reminder has lifted my spirits and has given me a new outlook on life and the current situations we face as a nation.  I implore you do to the same: step away from the news, the politics of the world, and surround yourself in the warmth of love and family.