Yes, I work in a bookstore 40 hours a week. Yes, I shop in bookstores when I'm not at work. So, it shouldn't surprise anyone that during a recent trip to Tucson, I made my way into our 3 Tucson locations. Each store is different; offering unique treasures that sing of the individuality each of our stores possess.

Late afternoon I strolled into our Grant location and happened upon a wonderful book, "The Gentle Art of Domesticity" by Jane Brocket. It was on the Hot Titles display, although already a few years old. The saying, "don't judge a book by its cover", does not apply to pretty books. Just ask Sarah. A pretty book calls out to you to be touched, opened, and paged through. You must own these books, even though you may read it once, but will probably only page through it. The content may be great, but it might not. And that's okay because it looks pretty. You have to have it on your shelf. Thus the "Gentle Art of Domesticity" ended up in my hands, paid for, and out the door.

A comfy leather couch, ample lighting, and a night with nothing good on the tube brought the perfect opportunity to take my time and stroll through the pages of this beautifully photographed book. Full of saturated colors tucked neatly between essays of the author's adventures in domesticity I found myself reminiscing of my childhood. Days of waking early to pick in the orchard before school. Taking such care to cross-stitch neatly, always looking at the framed samplers on our walls that innocently mocked my simple projects. Spending hours planning dinners or desserts, taking care to impress our parents and family. Using creativity to fuel our days, rather than vegging out in front of the television.

Such a rush of memories flooded through me. Nostalgia. Longing for what was once had and now lost. A need for simplicity; a way to live more abundantly with less stuff and more creative fulfillment. Decision made. I will make time to plant a few flowers, pick up a sewing needle, and maybe even can a few jars of jam.

Can a book change your life?

I believe so.

Or at least bring you back to the one you left behind and thought you'd lost for good.