What do you think?
Rate this book
The Journey Mama Writings #1
Trees Tall as Mountains
For eight years Rachel Devenish Ford has been writing about her not quite normal life at her blog, Journey Mama, telling stories about her days with characteristic honesty and humor. Now for the first time, this writing is captured in book format in the Journey Mama Writings Series.
In Trees Tall as Mountains, Rachel writes about her life of volunteering in an intentional community in the woods of Northern California with her Superstar Husband and three young children, cultivating joy and her faith in God despite a continuing fight with anxiety and very simple means. She is candid and hopeful, intimate and humorous. Because Rachel’s explorations of faith are not trite or churchy, her writing is beloved by believer and non-believer alike. Her bright, honest words make strangers into friends, and Rachel’s attempts to truly understand the love of God radiate hope to others who are searching for him in the sometimes dark, sometimes beautiful world.
In Trees Tall as Mountains, Rachel writes about her life of volunteering in an intentional community in the woods of Northern California with her Superstar Husband and three young children, cultivating joy and her faith in God despite a continuing fight with anxiety and very simple means. She is candid and hopeful, intimate and humorous. Because Rachel’s explorations of faith are not trite or churchy, her writing is beloved by believer and non-believer alike. Her bright, honest words make strangers into friends, and Rachel’s attempts to truly understand the love of God radiate hope to others who are searching for him in the sometimes dark, sometimes beautiful world.
ebook
First published June 26, 2013
528 people are currently reading
1084 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Devenish Ford
18 books113 followersRachel Devenish Ford is the wife of one Superstar Husband and the mother of five incredible children. Originally from British Columbia, Canada, she spent six years working with street youth in California before moving to India to help start a meditation center in the Christian tradition. She can be found eating street food or smelling flowers in many cities in Asia. She currently lives in Northern Thailand, inhaling books, morning air, and seasonal fruit.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
September 19, 2024
Really liked the honesty of this book which resulted from a blog that Rachel Devenish Ford had been writing for some 8 years. Rachel's very soul is laid bare for all to read. She writes with clarity about her anxiety and the struggles she has as a young mum. Some of the prose is quite beautiful and deeply moving. Look forward to reading more about Rachel, her family, and their travels.
April 24, 2021
The Journey Mama Writings, Bk 1, EBk-M, Kindle, @ 2013, Read 4/24/21. Nonfiction, Bio/Memoir, Bog/Journal Format. I have been called a "Miss Goody-Two Shoes" and "Pollyanna" by many people, and I'm generally pretty optimistic. Not to say that I haven't had my share of devastating tragedy, as well, but I really didn't know what it would be like to be depressed or anxious day after day. This book gave me an eyeful of that, and possibly an empathy I didn't have before. But I don't know how you can see God's beauty all around you, feel His Grace and Blessings, and still be so depressed and anxious. You must read this one slowly, a bog or two at a time. There are some beautiful passages, some family antics, some laughs. But I have to rate this 2☆'s = just Okay. However, it has a good message.
October 26, 2013
A very endearing account of Rachel Devenish Ford's early family experiences from her Journey Mama blog. Make no mistake, this is a book of blog entries covering three years. If you think you wouldn't like reading something like this, you may be tempted to skip this, but I challenge you to to be brave and give it a try. Stay with it.I had my doubts...I have been disappointed in other books based on blogs (even ones that received great praise and popularity) and so, yes, I was leery.
I read this differently than most things I read. There was no rush. A few entries here and there, often before bed were just the thing. By the time I got to the second year I was definitely hooked. It was like a bud that was blooming, right down to the last entry. I found it refreshing, honest, and many times down-right beautiful.
Did I mention this was a blog? I felt myself move and grow with this wonderful family. They became like good friends, real friends of mine. I feel like the author is someone I KNOW, and not just through the printed page or the internet. There are parts of this that made me laugh out loud. Especially those about her children, so sweet and so poignant. There were parts that made me cry...and parts that nourished my soul.
I now follow the Journey Mama Blog. I love seeing the pictures of her and the family that I have read about. I am ready for the next book!
I read this differently than most things I read. There was no rush. A few entries here and there, often before bed were just the thing. By the time I got to the second year I was definitely hooked. It was like a bud that was blooming, right down to the last entry. I found it refreshing, honest, and many times down-right beautiful.
Did I mention this was a blog? I felt myself move and grow with this wonderful family. They became like good friends, real friends of mine. I feel like the author is someone I KNOW, and not just through the printed page or the internet. There are parts of this that made me laugh out loud. Especially those about her children, so sweet and so poignant. There were parts that made me cry...and parts that nourished my soul.
I now follow the Journey Mama Blog. I love seeing the pictures of her and the family that I have read about. I am ready for the next book!
July 20, 2013
I really enjoyed this book! I've been reading Rae's blog for a few years now and had pieced together a bit of the history on how she and her family ended up living in Asia, but it was really neat to go back several years (to 2005) and hear her story from the beginning of her blog. I feel like I have a deeper understanding of Rae as a person. She is candidly honest about her anxiety and the struggles of being the young Mother of two (then three) small children. My two boys were born one year apart and I could definitely relate to a lot of what she went through. Even if you don't share her faith, it's inspiring to hear how important Rae's faith is to her and how much strength she gains from it. I look forward to the next chronicle and will continue to read her blog regularly for glimpses into her fascinating life with her lovely family.
January 27, 2014
Well written and edited, but i just couldn't connect with this book. If you're looking for spirit- based, back to nature writing, you'll most likely enjoy this book. I'd suggest looking at the author's blog before purchasing this one, as that will give you a pretty good idea of her writing style and subjects.
August 29, 2014
well I tried. 6% in I just have no interest in reading this. oh well.
January 26, 2018
Good book to read for any woman who has a husband and kids. Not for me; I read about 1/2 the book before I felt like I was wasting my time trying to finish a book because I started it.
August 10, 2021
I started this book sometime last year. I laid it aside to pick up something else (why I do 4 books at a time is a mystery) and I forgot about it. I just found it again and enjoyed reading the last half. The author writes a blog and this, for the most part, Is compilation of her adventures during the early years of her marriage and four pregnancies. It covers up to half of 2008.
Ford lives an unconventional lifestyle, for the most part. She and her husband are dedicated Christians and live extremely thrifty in community with other Christians, with not much to call their own. First, it was street ministry in San Francisco where they lived in a cramped apartment type place with several other families during her first pregnancy . Then they moved to Humboldt County in CA, a different kind of place in itself as part of the Emerald Triangle, an area attracting drifters, artsy folks, and known for prime marijuana huge farms. There they purchase 10 acres known as The Land and live in tiny a cabin with others living in their own cabins. It is not a commune but it is communal living, sharing in meals, and other work . The Land is a place for ministry, retreat, renewal, and rest. Ford and her husband sacrifice tremendously to follow what they feel is their purpose for this time of their lives. The book ends with them moving to India. There is a sequel which picks up at that point.
While the author writes of some day to day struggles and joys, raising small children, and juggling her work and finances, more often she writes of reflections on life. She does this in almost laugh out loud style, and other writing is quite deep contemplation. Her accounts are often amazing and joy-filled
Their intentional way of manner of living has taken Ford and her husband across the world in pursuit of their heartfelt purpose.
I recommend this book for couples and mothers of children. Even though my kids are grown, I found the book to be a refreshing perspective on living.
Ford lives an unconventional lifestyle, for the most part. She and her husband are dedicated Christians and live extremely thrifty in community with other Christians, with not much to call their own. First, it was street ministry in San Francisco where they lived in a cramped apartment type place with several other families during her first pregnancy . Then they moved to Humboldt County in CA, a different kind of place in itself as part of the Emerald Triangle, an area attracting drifters, artsy folks, and known for prime marijuana huge farms. There they purchase 10 acres known as The Land and live in tiny a cabin with others living in their own cabins. It is not a commune but it is communal living, sharing in meals, and other work . The Land is a place for ministry, retreat, renewal, and rest. Ford and her husband sacrifice tremendously to follow what they feel is their purpose for this time of their lives. The book ends with them moving to India. There is a sequel which picks up at that point.
While the author writes of some day to day struggles and joys, raising small children, and juggling her work and finances, more often she writes of reflections on life. She does this in almost laugh out loud style, and other writing is quite deep contemplation. Her accounts are often amazing and joy-filled
Their intentional way of manner of living has taken Ford and her husband across the world in pursuit of their heartfelt purpose.
I recommend this book for couples and mothers of children. Even though my kids are grown, I found the book to be a refreshing perspective on living.
July 3, 2025
I always love reading about people's stories. I can sit and listen to just about anyone share about their lives and get caught up in their story.
I enjoyed this glimpse into Ford's life. I love how differently she and her family choose to live and their adventures. I love how she honestly shared about her anxiety, about how there were so many things she wanted to change. Yet, her anxiety didn't keep her from following where she felt God was leading, even though it made it very, very hard at times.
Some of the things you will find in this book you might like to know before you read: a lot of talk about poo and other bodily fluids (which makes since with how little her kids are). Pregnancy loss. Living as a racially mixed family. Living with crippling anxiety. Some mild language (used three or four times) and some use of ephamisiams (like crap)
Why only 3 stars?
I sometimes struggled with just the format. I mean, I loved seeing the story unfold in real-time (these were originally posted on her blog), and yet, at other times, it made it harder to connect.
Having never dealt with anxiety on the level Ford does, sometimes it was hard to connect with her personally. However, with that said, I think she gave me a greater understanding of what it is like to live with anxiety, which will hopefully make me a more understanding person.
There were also a few times I really didn't want all the details of the nasty messes her kids made. Sure, it's normal mom stuff, and in a year or two, I will probably be more understanding. However, at the moment, it was a little too gross for my taste.
I enjoyed this glimpse into Ford's life. I love how differently she and her family choose to live and their adventures. I love how she honestly shared about her anxiety, about how there were so many things she wanted to change. Yet, her anxiety didn't keep her from following where she felt God was leading, even though it made it very, very hard at times.
Some of the things you will find in this book you might like to know before you read: a lot of talk about poo and other bodily fluids (which makes since with how little her kids are). Pregnancy loss. Living as a racially mixed family. Living with crippling anxiety. Some mild language (used three or four times) and some use of ephamisiams (like crap)
Why only 3 stars?
I sometimes struggled with just the format. I mean, I loved seeing the story unfold in real-time (these were originally posted on her blog), and yet, at other times, it made it harder to connect.
Having never dealt with anxiety on the level Ford does, sometimes it was hard to connect with her personally. However, with that said, I think she gave me a greater understanding of what it is like to live with anxiety, which will hopefully make me a more understanding person.
There were also a few times I really didn't want all the details of the nasty messes her kids made. Sure, it's normal mom stuff, and in a year or two, I will probably be more understanding. However, at the moment, it was a little too gross for my taste.
July 29, 2021
In Trees Tall as Mountains, Rachel writes about her life of volunteering in an intentional community in the woods of Northern California with her Superstar Husband and three young children, cultivating joy and her faith in God despite a continuing fight with anxiety and very simple means. She is candid and hopeful, intimate and humorous. Because Rachel’s explorations of faith are not trite or churchy, her writing is beloved by believer and non-believer alike. Her bright, honest words make strangers into friends, and Rachel’s attempts to truly understand the love of God radiate hope to others who are searching for him in the sometimes dark, sometimes beautiful world.
July 8, 2020
LOVED THIS!! 😘
I truly enjoyed reading about your amazing life!! You have the ability to make the mundane seem magical. Thanks for baring your soul and sharing your beautiful family with us. I never did figure out why you call Chinua "Rockstar husband" but I love the relationship you have. And where did the name Chinua come from? He does sound like a pretty amazing guy. I wanted this adventure to continue as I long to live vicariously through you. Guess I will have to look for your next book! Best of luck with your family! I wish you many blessings.🙏
I truly enjoyed reading about your amazing life!! You have the ability to make the mundane seem magical. Thanks for baring your soul and sharing your beautiful family with us. I never did figure out why you call Chinua "Rockstar husband" but I love the relationship you have. And where did the name Chinua come from? He does sound like a pretty amazing guy. I wanted this adventure to continue as I long to live vicariously through you. Guess I will have to look for your next book! Best of luck with your family! I wish you many blessings.🙏
March 16, 2022
A woman of faith’s unselfish life
Rachel is a remarkable woman. She starts living in a commune at the age of 18. She is living a selfless life, living for Jesus. She is an artist and writer. She meets her husband who is of the same lifestyle. In her blog, she takes through her life and her anxiety and makes us feel what it is like to be her. She has 3 small children when she finds out that she is pregnant with her fourth child and in the process of moving to India of all places! I was filled with wonderment reading this book. I feel you will be too!
Rachel is a remarkable woman. She starts living in a commune at the age of 18. She is living a selfless life, living for Jesus. She is an artist and writer. She meets her husband who is of the same lifestyle. In her blog, she takes through her life and her anxiety and makes us feel what it is like to be her. She has 3 small children when she finds out that she is pregnant with her fourth child and in the process of moving to India of all places! I was filled with wonderment reading this book. I feel you will be too!
November 9, 2017
Blog inspiration
Each time I close a book I feel as if I am parting with a friend. Rachel refreshingly tells all. Her joys, her sorrows, and her triumphs with God at her side working with and through her at each step. It was a great read and I can relate to her writing style. I broke it down into digestible bite sized pieces and would read it when I needed to get into writers mode.
Each time I close a book I feel as if I am parting with a friend. Rachel refreshingly tells all. Her joys, her sorrows, and her triumphs with God at her side working with and through her at each step. It was a great read and I can relate to her writing style. I broke it down into digestible bite sized pieces and would read it when I needed to get into writers mode.
January 1, 2019
This is an exciting book about a christian family. This christian family consist of a mom and her five kids (one miscarried)and wonderful husband who journey through faith. As this christian family journey through faith where ever they may be, one often thinks it is time to slow down and smell the flowers and be great full for what you have. In turn one will learn to share what God has to offer one in everyday life... I have no children and I really love this book....
November 17, 2020
I confess that I read half and then couldn’t read the rest. Although I understand that this book was derived from blog posts, it skipped around so much that I had trouble following the chain of events. For example, in one post she was all worked up about getting ready for this big trip and then she skipped over several days of posts snd didn’t include them in the book snd we never find out if she went on the trip. Very confusing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2019
good life book
i absolutely loved this book... i laughed and cried along with everybody in the book... i loved hearing about everyday trials and tribulations of their lives... i love living vicuriously through other people... thank u for taking me to canada, south africa, and india with yall... may God bless your journeys forward!
i absolutely loved this book... i laughed and cried along with everybody in the book... i loved hearing about everyday trials and tribulations of their lives... i love living vicuriously through other people... thank u for taking me to canada, south africa, and india with yall... may God bless your journeys forward!
February 3, 2020
I gave up reading half way through the book. I enjoyed some of it, and I related to her in parts about her faith and anxiety and depression but I think you'd have to be a parent to relate to her with the rest of the book. There's only so much reading you can do about stories of other people's children.
July 17, 2017
Great journey
I enjoyed journeying with Rae. Reading about her littles reminded me of when mine were ... miss that newness, but there's newness at any age ... He makes all things New.
I enjoyed journeying with Rae. Reading about her littles reminded me of when mine were ... miss that newness, but there's newness at any age ... He makes all things New.
March 30, 2018
The journey into Rachel's mind is not so strange as it might seem. With a positive outlook on life and a strong faith, there doesn't seem to be a challenge too great. Except that of the mind, and as for everyone, it is the hardest to fight.
April 8, 2018
Maybe more like 3.5 stars... The first half of the book I struggled to identify with the writer, but I found more and more in common as the book progressed. She is funny and steps out in faith in a way that is very hard for me but good for me to read about.
August 30, 2018
This was a really nice book. It was easy to pick up and put down. The book is like a journal/random thoughts of the author which isn’t usually my thing but she has an interesting life (on a Christian commune, then preparing to moving to India) and she does a good job expressing her thoughts.
June 24, 2021
Truth
Many universal truths in this book no matter your age, faith or situation in life. This was not the book I was expecting to read but I am so glad that found it. I will start book 2 right away.
Many universal truths in this book no matter your age, faith or situation in life. This was not the book I was expecting to read but I am so glad that found it. I will start book 2 right away.
May 24, 2017
Amaizing book, fun , relatable and educational. Enjoy every bit of it. I will definitely read it again
February 7, 2018
I really didn’t enjoy this book, so I’ve stopped having read book 1. I felt it didn’t bring me joy, so rather than continue I’ve stopped there. I’m sure others like this, but not for me.
March 14, 2019
Loved it
I was hooked at the start.. looking forward to reading more!! Can’t wait to see what happens with you all in India!!
I was hooked at the start.. looking forward to reading more!! Can’t wait to see what happens with you all in India!!
March 24, 2021
My favorite part of this book was Rachel referring to her husband as “my superstar husband.” This made me smile and remember to think of the great good in others.
May 11, 2022
Actually got bored and couldn’t finish. I guess I couldn’t connect personally with the author and her story.
June 28, 2022
Sweet musings of a mother that made me smile. It was honest and real and heart warming.
February 10, 2017
Intriguing, but self-focused
I'm not even sure what all of my thoughts are about this blog-turned-book. I'm not sure what I expected. It was clearly written as a means of Journaling her life. She is an artistic writer, but the life she lives isn't clear enough for me to know whether it's truly fascinating, or whether I just like her turn of a phrase.
I'm not even sure what all of my thoughts are about this blog-turned-book. I'm not sure what I expected. It was clearly written as a means of Journaling her life. She is an artistic writer, but the life she lives isn't clear enough for me to know whether it's truly fascinating, or whether I just like her turn of a phrase.
April 16, 2015
A couple of my blogging friends recommended this book and so i decided to check it out. It was written by a woman who has done lots of travelling and moving around the world so that appealed to me. I was not disappointed. It is a series of blog posts when Rachel was living in community in California. It was a bit of an alternative lifestyle. The part that impressed me the most was Rachel's honesty. I felt reproved because i felt as if i lacked that virtue in my own life. It was refreshing and i am looking forward to reading the rest of her books.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews