I have to start by saying I love Lori Allen!

Maybe it’s because I still have 3 small children running around my home, but this book just didn’t land for me like I thought it would. I craved to see the real yet down to earth, Lori that we all love. While I think we definitely saw parts of her, I felt like the made for TV persona would drop in at the most inconvenient times. Parts of this book felt gimmicky to me.

Things I didn’t love:
How it felt like she was throwing her DIL under the bus without really saying it. Be for her, or don’t.
How she played off her faults as “Well it’s just how I am, and I’m not going to change” instead of trying to discuss becoming better for those around her (this is where I felt the gimmicky side crept in).
The fine line between self-centeredness and self-love. There were times I felt as though she promoted more of a selfishness mentality than the selfless one required of our faith.

Things I adored:
Well, Lori, of course! I listened to this book on audio, and I am SO GLAD Lori narrated it. You really got a feel for her intended prose, personality, and wit. This was part of what made the book so good.
The honesty. Lori is known for her honesty, and it was on full display here. While I felt as though she used it at the expense of others in some parts, her overall willingness to share the nitty gritty of what many are not was refreshing.
Her commitment. Whether that be to her husband, her business, or the care of her family, there is no doubt that Lori is dedicated and doesn’t believe in giving up.
THE ONE IN EIGHT CHAPTER! Ok, full disclosure, I lost my aunt to breast cancer and have spent the last 7 or so years raising thousands or breast cancer research and community programs. Breast cancer stories get me every time. That being said, the rawness with which Lori shared her breast cancer journey made this book a winner. I will buy it for others, simply for the gem that is found in that one chapter. I wish the entire book had been written about Lori’s cancer journey (and beyond) and in the vulnerable way in which she relayed it to us. THIS was the Lori I read the book to know. It was real and it was powerful.

I am 42 and have been feeling like I am in a rut, so this book caught my attention. The author's advice for women that are approaching or past 50 was spot on and even though I am further away to 50 than close to, I will be utilizing it. I listened to the audio version of this and found it to be beneficial and will be recommending it to other women.