A Book Review from The Joyful Life On “The Gathering Table” by The Gingham Apron

I didn’t even realize how tense I’ve been until my shoulders finally drooped with relaxation and I let out a contented sigh. Delight. The cozy, hunkered-down-with-beauty and soul-nourishment kind of delight. That was my first reaction upon experiencing “The Gathering Table.” The weight of this year’s destruction and disappointment seems to have almost become part of me and I’d unknowingly adapted to the new normal. But I’ve found beauty to be a powerful antidote to many-a-trouble—likely because good things come straight from God.

God is clearly at work in and through the lives of the five midwest darlings that make up The Gingham Apron, and the work of their hearts and hands have revived me in a difficult season. The beauty I found in “The Gathering Table” has shed some of those extra, unwanted, pounds of burden and I’m refreshed and inspired anew. 

At first flip, it appears a hearty cookbook, stocked with simple delicious recipes alongside inviting photos. It certainly is that, but so much more. This comprehensive treasure contains more than a peek inside an entire year of gatherings put on by this charming Iowa farm family. A family, I’m fairly certain I’d fit right into. Each sister, along with mom/mom-in-law, Denise, authors various portions and by the end they’re your best friends and you feel like you’ve spent all year together!

Oftentimes, pretty pages like these will snag my attention and make my heart swoon with possibility. But I’m quickly deflated when met with the unrealistic incorporation into my ordinary life. That’s not what I felt when immersed in the pages of “The Gathering Table.” I was inspired, encouraged, invited in. And while still swooning over content, my feet remained firmly planted in reality. I deeply desired to make our “home” and its rhythms better and more honoring, rather than changing our home to look and function more like someone else’s.

Without a doubt, my favorite section of the book is “Fall.” It’s my happiest time of year, so discovering new ways to regard it in light of Scripture and celebrate the unique gifts the season affords invigorated my hostess-heart. With new simple yet scrumptious recipes, gathering ideas, and “Apron Application” to try, I feel instantly equipped for an Autumn of wholehearted togetherness. Whatever season you flourish (or even flounder) in, this treasured resource will not leave you feeling overwhelmed, less-than, or urged to make superfluous purchases to craft special memories. I’m confident you’ll feel just as prepped, delighted, and eager to welcome and love others around your table.