The Knowlton Nest

Booking It 2012: February

2012-02-12T07:58:00.000-08:00

Best books of the month:
*The Money Saving Mom's Budget: Slash Your Spending, Pay Down Your Debt, Streamline Your Life, and Save Thousands a Year by Crystal Paine
*Sometimes He Whispers Sometimes He Roars: Learning to Hear the Voice of God by Marilynn Chadwick (see my REVIEW)

I'm hooked up with Jessica at Life As MOM!

Deep Cleaning: Kitchen

2012-02-10T16:10:00.000-08:00

This year I vowed to myself to clean my home and PURGE! I'm so tired of stuff and clutter. I know you've heard me say that before. I started cleaning last year, but I was pregnant and didn't have much energy. Then I had my baby and had to put this on hold. Now that she is 9 months and sleeping for naps well, I'm trying to take advantage of that time to get this house in order. I feel so much better when my home is clean! Don't you?

I was inspired by Clean Mama and 31 Days to Clean as I marched through my kitchen to clean most every nook and cranny. I wasn't completely thorough, but enough to give me an edge to keep it maintained and so I can easily find things to use for cooking.

BEFORE

AFTER

I hope this has inspired you somewhat to do some cleaning of your own! I encourage you to check out my links and see what will help you. Left to myself, I just can't do it. I love the lists and ideas of what to clean. My next big project is my bedroom which I showed you last week.

Jessna is 9 months old! Really??

2012-02-06T07:30:00.000-08:00

Perfect!

OK, is Jessna really 9 months old! She still seems like such a little baby to me, but she' not really. Jessna still adores her older brother and I'm so glad he's around sometime when I'm exhausted of trying to keep up with the two of them. They sure are cute together.

This month:
*Jessna said her first consonant blend- "Ma, ma, ma!"
*She likes peek a boo. I hold my hands in front of my face until she touches them and then I say "peek a boo!"
*She had her first sickness and it is still going on. She got a cough and a runny nose that messed up her sleeping and eating schedule. She still is more fussy than ever about drinking milk from a bottle. I still have not experimented too much with food because she wasn't feeling good. No teeth yet either!
*We had snow this month and took a family walk in the snow. It was so pretty.
*She is still content to sit on the floor and doesn't like tummy time very much.
*She's able to "feed" herself by holding and sucking on a cracker or dried pear/apple.

What I love about Jessna:
*Her adorable little smile and giggle
*Her funny faces when she's eating
*How she responds with happiness to her brother
*Watching her discover new things
*Cuddling with her before bed while reading and singing

Watch Jessna's foot trick!

With cousins Jordan and Reagan

And this was Shrade at 9 months!

Guest Post: Poppy Smith (8 Tips for Building a Marriage That Thrives)

2012-02-02T20:59:00.000-08:00

8 Tips For Building a Marriage That Thrives

The mega-millions spent by Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries, and Katy Perry and Russell Brand, on their lavish and exotic weddings failed to guarantee a long and blissful union. But they are not alone. Recent statistics show a decline in couples getting married and staying married for more than a few months or years.

Can marriages survive in today’s culture? Long-wedded author, Poppy Smith, says “Yes.” Here are Smith’s tips for building a marriage that not only works, but thrives:

Readjust your expectations. You didn’t marry your clone. Naturally, your partner will view some things differently. Be willing to flex and accept their right to be themselves.
Appreciate your different strengths. Analyze your personalities, your backgrounds, and what’s important to each of you. Identify each other’s strengths and affirm what these add to your relationship.
Learn to communicate so you’re heard. Women tend to explain and expand. Men tend to edit. To be heard, communicate according to your spouse’s desired style, not yours.
Understand each other’s feelings about money. Does money signal fun? Symbolize success? Guarantee security? Or ensure power? Knowing what it means to both of you helps in settling money battles.
Practice a conflict resolution style that works for both. Clarify what the conflict is about. Listen to each other’s reasoning and feelings without interrupting. Then decide what best builds your relationship.
Recognize the emotional needs of your mate. Both men and women want to be valued, admired, respected, and listened to. Discover what makes your spouse feel loved and special, then find ways to meet that need.
Prioritize romance and sexual intimacy. Sex matters. It gives physical and emotional pleasure, strengthens love, and deepens commitment. Make time to play or be silly or sensuous in bed. It pays rich dividends.
Share your Dreams. What is it each of you longs to achieve? Are there some dreams you want to accomplish together? Be encouragers to each other and discuss steps you can take now toward your goals.

About the Book:

Why Can't He Be More Like Me?

9 Secrets to Understanding Your Husband

“What do you and your husband have in common?”

“We got married on the same day.”

Do you find yourself nodding in agreement with the answer to that question? You want your marriage to be happy and honoring to God, but you wonder how when your husband baffles and sometimes irritates you. You may even wonder if you made a terrible mistake.

Poppy Smith offers you hope in this upbeat, empathetic, and biblically grounded book. Why Can’t He Be More Like Me? will help you better understand areas of conflict in your marriage as you consider your different backgrounds, expectations, needs, and reactions on a variety of topics from communication styles to finances and sex.

Each chapter provides practical tools to help you learn to accept and enjoy your mate. The result will be a stronger, happier marriage as you grow to understand and even find delight in your differences.

Endorsements:

“Poppy Smith cares about relationships! Her astute insights, garnered from time spent living in numerous locations around the globe, brings a wealth of advice packaged with her upbeat warmth and wisdom.”
—Pam Farrel, speaker and author of over 30 books, including best-selling Men Are Like Waffles—Women Are Like Spaghetti

“This book will help you love your husband even when you don’t understand him.”
—Leslie Vernick, counselor, coach, speaker, and author of How to Act Right When Your Spouse Acts Wrong and The Emotionally Destructive Relationship

Poppy Smith

About Poppy Smith:

With her fun personality and passion for communicating life-changing truths, Poppy Smith inspires believers to thrive spiritually and personally. Poppy’s practical how-to messages (in print or in person) uses colorful examples from her own struggles to be more like Jesus. She encourages others to grow in every kind of situation—whether joyful or painful! Poppy is British, married to an American, and has lived in many countries. She brings an international flair seasoned with humorous honesty as she illustrates Bible truths. A former Bible Study Fellowship lecturer, Poppy’s teaching challenges women to look at their choices, attitudes and self-talk. As a result, God’s speaks, changing hearts, changing minds, and changing lives. Watch for Poppy's upcoming book release, Why Can't He Be More Like Me: 9 Secrets to Understanding Your Husband.

**Be looking for my review of this book coming later this Spring!!

Memorizing Scripture: Romans 8:10-17

2012-02-02T07:30:00.000-08:00

Since January started, things have been so topsy turvy. I thought coming back after the holidays would slow down. I went to visit my sister, Bible study started, we got snowed in for a week and now, my kids have been sick for a week. I took this video after the 13th day being home. Jessna has a very bad cough and has been keeping us up at night. So I have just been reviewing these verses over and over. I haven't really memorized any new ones.

I love how these verses tell me that Christ is who helps me defeat my fleshly desires and that I am a child of God. When I feel worn down, as I am now, I can hold fast to these verses.

Enjoy seeing Shrade and Jessna in the VLOG!

29 Day Organizational Challenge- the Master Bedroom

2012-02-01T07:54:00.000-08:00

I am so tired of living in chaos. I have challenged myself to clean out my house this year. I am so tired of looking at piles and clutter. I spent all of January cleaning the kitchen and I feel very pleased with my progress. However, the room I hate most is our master bedroom. It's the room I am in the least and so all of the junk gets plopped in there. So here goes! I have decided to attack the bedroom this month for this challenge. My main goal is to get rid of the STUFF and if I can make it look enticing, that will be a bonus.

Here is what I have to work with: (I'm cringing!)

I'm hooked up with Laura at I'm an Organizing Junkie!

Love on the Line Book Giveaway

2012-01-31T16:01:00.000-08:00

OK, ya'll! Yes, I used to live in the South! I thought I would give away another book that I reviewed last fall that has a Valentine theme- LOVE! Be sure to follow the giveaway guidelines! Enjoy!

WIN IT: I am giving away Deeanne Gist's Love on the Line this month. Giveaway ends Friday, February 10. US only.

To enter: Be sure to click on all the links before filling out the entry form.

1. Make a comment on my review of Love on the Line. (required)

2. Be a follower on my blog

3. Subscribe to my blog by email (link on blog)

4."Like" The Knowlton Nest on Facebook (link on my blog).

5. Post about this giveaway on another site (your blog, facebook,twitter, etc) (1 entry for every site)

Entry for Love on the Line Book Giveaway

Bible in 90 Days!

2012-01-31T07:30:00.000-08:00

I am so excited! Tomorrow I'm going to start my Bible in 90 days journey! I have been praying about this and last October I read all the testimonies and realized that reading the Bible in 90 days would be tough, but well worth it. I have read the Bible before, but not in such a short time. Please pray for me and also consider doing this one day yourself. I can't wait to tell you about my journey. One thing that has really stood out to me lately is prayer so I will be reading with my mind focused on prayer.

I'm really nervous that I won't be able to do it, but I know that I need to carve out my time to make it a priority!

I will be checking in with Aurie at Welcome to our Good Life.

I Love Your Presence Music Review and Giveaway!!

2012-01-30T07:30:00.000-08:00

Be ready to be immersed in worship with Vineyard's Music "I Love Your Presence." I absolutely enjoyed the beauty of this album as it brought me to a level of worship with Jesus. Each song is live and evokes a sense of awe for the One who loves us so much. I really like the variety of music and artists who sing the songs. I was drawn closer to God and I can't wait to really be in His Presence someday!

Vineyard Music

'I Love Your Presence'

(iTunes release 1/10; physical release 2/7)

Website: http://www.vineyardmusic.com/vm/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DiscoverVineyard

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/VineyardMusic

iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/i-love-your-presence-live/id491711353

About 'I Love Your Presence':

I LOVE YOUR PRESENCE was recorded live at the Burn Bright: Worship and The Kingdom Of God conference, hosted by Vineyard Worship. Several hundred worship leaders and worshipers gathered in the Arizona desert to explore the nature of God’s kingdom through music and teaching with some of the Vineyard’s most gifted communicators and musicians. This inspiring collection of songs recorded live at the The Vineyard Church North Phoenix will immerse listeners in the powerful worship that was the highlight of the event. I LOVE YOUR PRESENCE reminds us to not just think of worship as singing songs, but also laying down our lives for Him.

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Win it: I am having a giveaway for this download music album. Open to anyone and giveaway ends Wednesday, February 8.

To enter: Be sure to click on all the links before filling out the entry form.

1.(NEW) Make a comment about my review in the comments below (you must then fill out the entry form for your entry to be counted!)

2. Be a follower on my blog

3. Subscribe to my blog by email (link on blog)

4."Like" The Knowlton Nest on Facebook (link on my blog).

5. Post about this giveaway on another site (your blog, facebook,twitter, etc) (1 entry for every site- see share buttons below)

Entry for Music Download of I Love Your Presence

The Good Wife's Guide by Darlene Schacht Book Review

2012-01-27T14:53:00.000-08:00

If you have ever read Darlene Schacht's blog Time-Warp Wife you will know that her passion is to encourage women to embrace their calling as a godly wife. I have so enjoyed Darlene's blog and now she has combined many of her "teachings" in her new ebook The Good Wife's Guide. She wants each wife to be a help meet to their husband. That is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your husband! The Good Wife's Guide helps us to manage ourselves by making faith and family a first priority. You must also learn to be unselfish and loving because by serving your family, you are serving the Lord! Darlene gives many practical ways to be sure we are the right path for our purpose as wives.

I really want to practice the principles in this book. I was very excited to find a book that not only gave me what do, buy why! One thing that I want to do is put up Bible verses in each room of my house that will serve as reminders of what God calls me to do. Darlene lists these in her book. I love how Darlene doesn't tell us what we must do, but what we are asked to do for the sake of the high calling of being a wife. I think so many in this day don't realize how much a wife can be the anchor in the home and also be the helper of her husband. There is also a large practical section where she outlines housekeeping procedures. I have started using her methods and I'm amazed at what I have accomplished. I highly recommend Darlene's new book! Be a good wife!

Sale at Family Vision Films!

2012-01-26T16:15:00.000-08:00

Buy ONE film from Family Vision Films and get Homemaking 101 for only $9.95!! This is only through Saturday! Hurry! What other films do they have? Courageous, Tea With Michelle Duggar and Unplanned!

What a Son Needs from His Dad by Michael O'Donnell Book Review

2012-01-22T14:55:00.000-08:00

What a Son Needs From His Dad: How a Man Prepares His Sons for Life by Michael O'Donnell is a book for fathers who want to raise their son in a godly way. Michael shares how fathers are the first and greatest influence on their sons and they are the ones to guide and instruct their sons. He examines different types of fathers- military dad, hypocrite dad, business partner dad, super spiritual dad and the the "real McCoy" dad. What dad do you want to be for your son? He lists 10 ways to foster a good working relationship for fathers to have with their son. This book shares wisdom for work, play, discipling, choosing friends, being a good citizen, preparing for marriage and releasing your son into the world.

This book was very easy to read and was full of touching stories and wisdom gems for raising boys. The role of the father is so important in a son's life. This book is an excellent guide that is encouraging and really helps the father to make an effort to prepare their sons for life with a good foundation and godly principles.

*This product was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers for purpose of this review. This is my honest opinion of this book and no monetary compensation was received for my opinion.*

Plan It Don't Panic Ebook Sale!!

2012-01-21T22:19:00.000-08:00

Do you remember back in October/November when I did the Plan It Don't Panic Menu Challenge? Well, it was sure a challenge for me, but I was able to do it. Well, Stephanie from Keeper of the Home who planned that challenge has a great book that is available for a limited time at a SPECIAL price!

Her new book Plan It Don't Panic: A Complete Meal Planning Resource is now for sale! From now until Monday, January 23 at midnight use code BACKONLINE to get the book for only $3.99 (PDF).

Is meal planning really worth it? The answer is a resounding YES, if you want to:

Stop spending too much money and start making the most of every grocery dollar
Avoid the stress and panic of what to cook each night for dinner
Serve your family more balanced, healthful meals (rather than resorting to convenience or compromise foods)

I hear time and again from both homemakers and women who work outside of the home how meal planning is the key that makes all the difference.
In fact, many of you probably already do meal planning, in some manner, to some degree.

But do you want to learn to do it better?

I'd love to help you learn how to:

Find the method of meal planning that will suit you and your family best
Tweak and perfect your meal planning style with unique tips and strategies
Make it easier to work around special/restrictive dietary needs
Become a grocery-shopping ninja and never go to the store without a genius plan in place for maximizing your money
Learn how leftovers can become your best friends in the kitchen
As well as how to store your recipes, easily find your favorites, plan for hectic times, and even what to do when you mess up...

Not only that, but this 82 page eBook also includes:

:: 4 weeks of real, whole food meal plans, complete with breakfast/lunch/dinner and recipe links
:: 11 printable planning pages including 3 different weekly planners, 3 monthly planners, a seasonal menu planner, grocery shopping checklist, pantry and freezer inventories, and a freezer cooking/baking day planning page.

Plan It Don't Panic: A Complete Menu Planning Resource
ONLY $3.99
Use code: BACKONLINE
Sale ends Monday, January 23 at midnight!

Tell Your Time: How To Manage Your Schedule So You Can Live Free!

2012-01-20T20:50:00.000-08:00

Are you going crazy with your schedule like me and really want to get a handle on it and stop wasting time? I sure do. Well, Amy Lynn Andrews has written this book Tell Your Time: How to Manage Your Schedule So You Can Live Free. Not too good to be true! I was utterly amazed at this book and how quickly it could be read and implemented in my life!

SO, get your copy today for only $2.99.

Change your life and be happy!

Tell Your Time: How to Manage Your Schedule So You Can Live Free

Win a Kindle Fire and a $50 gift card giveaway!!

2012-01-19T08:53:00.000-08:00

Oh, how I wish I was the one giving this away, but I'm not, but Sparkling Reviews is! So head on over to enter for your chance of this awesome prize!

Sometimes He Whispers, Sometimes He Roars by Marilynn Chadwick Book Review

2012-01-19T06:05:00.000-08:00

Sometimes He Whispers Sometimes He Roars: Learning to Hear the Voice of God by Marilynn Chadwick is not only a book sharing about practical ways to make prayer a part of your daily life, but it's a book that shares what the power of prayer can do. Marilynn is the co-founder and speaker for Women Under Construction and is also a pastor's wife. She has spent over 10 years developing a powerful and effective way to pray. Marilynn shares how September 11 spurred her on a journey to think beyond her world to a world in need of prayer. As she prayed for specific people, she was able to see the results of her prayers by meeting some of those people. Marilynn shows how to use a "chubby book" for daily prayers and explains a 21 Day Prayer Experiment. She also shares little ideas like prayer triggers, prayer on demand (POD) and daily themes. Included in the back of the book is an 8 week Leader's Study Guide and several other pertinent prayer resources.

I was absolutely fascinated by reading this book. I really desire to have a better prayer life and I would love to see God work as I pray like He did in Marilynn's life. She has some awesome stories that truly show how prayer can "work." But most of all she aims for her readers to develop that connection with God. I'm excited to do the 21 Day Prayer Experiment soon. If you have a desire to walk closer with God and learn more about prayer, I highly recommend this book. (It will go on my Must Read List for 2012)

*This product was provided to me free of charge by Simon & Schuster for purpose of this review. This is my honest opinion of this book and no monetary compensation was received for my opinion.*

A Mile In His Shoes DVD Review and Giveaway!!

2012-01-18T07:30:00.000-08:00

From the director of "Angels In the Outfield" comes an inspiring story about a special boy with an amazing gift, and the coach who believed. Dean Cain and Luke Schroder star in the gmc movie based on the book "The Legend of Mickey Tussler".

Website: http://www.watchgmctv.com/video/mile-his-shoes#biography

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Mile-In-His-Shoes/270101973014772?sk=wall

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ev2T0BFetH4

Dove Foundation Review: http://www.dove.org/reviewmasterframe.asp

A Mile in His Shoes (based on a true story) is about Mickey, who has Asperger's syndrome and who has a rare talent- he has a great pitching arm. When he is discovered by Coach Murphy, his parents are reluctant to let him join the team. The River Rats, a minor league baseball team in Ohio, is struggling when Mickey joins the team and almost replaces the other pitcher, Lefty. As Mickey tries to fit in with the team and work around his disability, he is taken advantage of due to some jealousy from another player. Mickey stays strong and proves he's a great athlete and the parents begin to see the potential of their son.

This was a very sweet movie of a boy who is given a chance to develop his talent and excel at it despite all odds. The actors were very well cast and made the movie very enjoyable. Between the music, baseball and determination, this story touched my heart especially the ending when the parents realized that giving their son this chance was the best decision they could make. I love a movie that shows growth in character and presents good values. A Mile in His Shoes is sure to win a place in your heart.

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or
services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it
on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally
and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance
with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the
Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Win it: I am having a giveaway for this DVD. Open to US only and giveaway ends Wednesday, January 25.

To enter: Be sure to click on all the links before filling out the entry form.

1.(NEW) Make a comment about my review in the comments below (you must then fill out the entry form for your entry to be counted!)

2. Be a follower on my blog

3. Subscribe to my blog by email (link on blog)

4."Like" The Knowlton Nest on Facebook (link on my blog).

5. Watch the trailer.

6. Post about this giveaway on another site (your blog, facebook,twitter, etc) (1 entry for every site- see share buttons below)

Entry for A Mile in His Shoes DVD

The Christmas Singing by Cindy Woodsmall Book Review/Giveaway

2012-01-17T15:22:00.000-08:00

Mattie Eash decides after having her heart broken by her boyfriend,Gideon, three years ago on Christmas Eve that she would find someone safe to love in Cindy Woodsmall's The Christmas Singing: A Romance from the Heart of Amish Country (Ada's House Series). Mattie moves far away from Apple Ridge, Pennsylvania to live in Ohio with her brother after she finds Gideon holding an English girl and having him end their relationship. She starts a successful bakery called Mattie Cakes. She involves herself in the creativity of making cakes with her treasured notebook of ideas. Mattie meets Sol and they begin a comfortable relationship. After an accident occurs with her shop, she decides to move back home only until Christmas. Mattie then runs into Gideon many times as he is the construction worker building her cousin's house. His betrayal becomes exposed after he reveals a secret he had been holding for three years. Can Mattie trust her heart to truly love or will she choose convenience?

This story had all the perfect elements: romance, mystery, Amish customs and food! I always love it when a story that includes talk of delicious cakes also has recipes at the end. I fell in love with Mattie and Gideon and their interactions. I also was very intrigued by the insights of her sister in law concerning Mattie and Gideon's relationship. By the end, I was crying (because I was happy). There were some very heart warming moments and don't be fooled, the Amish are very romantic! Enjoy this beautiful new story by Cindy Woodsmall.

Here is a link to the FIRST CHAPTER.

*I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.*

WIN IT: I am giving away The Christmas Singing by Cindy Woodsmall. Giveaway ends Sunday, January 29. US only.

To enter: Be sure to click on all the links before filling out the entry form.

1. Rate my book review. (required) (In order for me to do more book review for this program, I need to have my book reviews rated.)

2. (NEW)Make a comment in the post below about this review in the comments below (you must then fill out the entry form for your entry to be counted)

3. Be a follower on my blog

4. Subscribe to my blog by email (link on blog)

5."Like" The Knowlton Nest on Facebook (link on my blog).

6.Watch the trailer

7. Post about this giveaway on another site (your blog, facebook,twitter, etc) (1 entry for every site-see share buttons below)

Entry for The Christmas Singing

The Gospel Story Bible by Marty Machowski Book Review

2012-01-13T07:30:00.000-08:00

It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card author is:

Marty Machowski

Illustrated by:

A. E. Macha

and the book:

The Gospel Story Bible:

Discovering Jesus in the Old and New Testaments

New Growth Press (December 5, 2011)

***Special thanks to Audra Jennings – The B&B Media Group – for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Marty Machowski is a Family Life Pastor at Covenant Fellowship Church, a Sovereign Grace Ministries church in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, where he has served on the pastoral staff for twenty-three years. Marty leads Promise Kingdom, the children’s ministry of Covenant Fellowship. He is also the author of Long Story Short: Ten-Minute Devotions to Draw Your Family to God and the forthcoming Gospel Story Sunday school curriculum. He and his wife Lois and their six children reside in West Chester, Pennsylvania.

Visit the author's Facebook Page.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR:

I have never been the best at anything. This has given me the freedom to really enjoy alot of things; perfection is not on the line. So my drawing is not clean, my patchwork corners don’t really match up, and my cooking is always an adventure. I was raised by a single mom who has an exhausting amount of creative energy. My brother and I were taught how to create our own entertainment and seek adventure in the everyday.

When I was in Jr High, both my parents remarried and let’s just say things have never been boring. A foster brother, two step sisters, and a half brother were added to the mix. I have aunts and uncles who have been beyond generous and helped raise me in many ways. I have been blessed to travel overseas and even live in Prague for six months. My dad and stepmom run a special needs home in Guatemala where I have spent time and really fallen in love with the culture. My brother and his wife run a shoe company out of Guatemala. Everywhere I have been, even a dirt floor hut in the hills of Guatemala, there has been art: design and color. I believe as humans we are created in the image of The Creator, and so we all have some creative effort to put forth.

I have a BFA in Illustration because after all the studio classes one takes to finish an Art Education degree, I found what I really like to do is draw. I doodle. Alot.

Presently, I am married with two little ones, living in the Germantown section of Philadelphia. I teach art part time at a sweet little christian school, grow tomatoes and beets, and sew or draw when I get the chance.

My first illustration project is coming out in the fall, 156 illustrated Bible stories in the “Gospel Story Bible” by Marty Machowski, published by New Growth Press.

Visit the illustrator's Website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Sometimes it’s easy to forget Jesus in the midst of frantic schedules, family squabbles and conflicting priorities. For many Christians, God often becomes little more than an afterthought after days absorbed and depleted by the busyness of life. But the truth is that he is the hero of every story—including the mundane, ordinary ones we experience on a regular basis. That is why Marty Machowski beckons families to take time out from the daily grind to be transformed by the message of the Good News in his latest release, The Gospel Story Bible: Discovering Jesus in the Old and New Testaments (New Growth Press, November 2011).

Based on the ESV Bible, this uniquely illustrated Bible storybook uses 156 stories to present God’s plan of salvation in Christ from its opening narrative in Genesis to its finale in Revelation. This easy-to-read storybook written for children from preschool to high school introduces readers to many captivating people, places and events from the Bible’s Old and New Testaments. At the same time, Machowski skillfully connects the individual stories to the overall gospel narrative of how God redeemed a broken world through sending his son Jesus to save his people. Each story ends by connecting to Jesus and his gospel of grace. By sharing these Bible stories with each other, young and old will learn together the life-changing habit of recognizing the presence and workings of Christ in every moment of their day.

“The gospel is deep enough to keep the oldest and wisest parents learning and growing all their lives, yet simple enough to change the heart of the first grader who has just begun to read,” says Machowski. “That’s what makes The Gospel Story Bible ideal as a storybook for a preschooler, a devotional for a grade school student, a refresher for the adult believer or an introduction for the new one. Parents and children will learn together to read the whole Bible as one story, with one hero—Jesus Christ.”

Vibrant illustrations by A. E. Macha, child-friendly discussion questions and Scripture references accompany each story to help lead families in exploring the Bible. Parents and teachers will be delighted to discover how easily even a young child can understand the original text of a story that he or she has already come to love. A companion to the family devotional Long Story Short: Ten-Minute Devotions to Draw Your Family to God and the soon-to-be-released Gospel Story Sunday school curriculum (February 2012), The Gospel Story Bible is also a great resource for churches, Sunday school classes, home-schoolers and Christian schools who want to teach their children to apply the gospel to every situation and make Jesus the most important part of their everyday lives.

Product Details:

List Price: $29.99
Hardcover: 328 pages
Publisher: New Growth Press (December 5, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1936768127
ISBN-13: 978-1936768127

AND NOW...Some Sample Pages (click images to see them larger):

Here's my review:
The Gospel Story Bible: Discovering Jesus in the Old and New Testaments is beautifully illustrated and well written for children ages preschool to high school. There are 156 stories starting in Genesis and going through Revelation. At the end of each story is a paragraph that connects that story to the gospel. The stories are short and also include a "Let's Talk About It" section with three questions.

I was instantly struck by the quality and beauty of this hardback book with each page being a different vibrant color. And each illustration is very colorful and intricate which is sure to catch a child's eye. I really enjoyed the simple way the stories are told. This book is a real treasure with the gospel threaded through each story until the end. This would be a great family devotion book.

The Everything Beans Book by Katie Kimball Discount Code!!

2012-01-12T07:55:00.000-08:00

From Kitchen Stewardship:

Do you wish you could improve your family’s nutrition without breaking the bank?

Have you always wanted to use dry beans, but you’re afraid of the complexity of cooking them or just don’t have any good recipes?

Why are they healthy?
How do I cook with dry beans?
How do I cook and store in bulk?
What about picky eaters (the bean haters of the world)?
How do I avoid gas?
How do I get past the texture?
And of course, 30 recipes from appetizer to dessert, all spotlighting the most frugal and nourishing food I know: beans.

Beans, beans and more beans!

You’ll find recipes for homemade beans and rice, four styles, refried beans, wraps, Mexican fare, soups, pasta dishes, and even a dessert!

The only thing missing is homemade baked beans, just because I haven’t found a recipe I loved. (I do include links to two choices anyway.)

I worked hard with recipe testers to make sure even the most nervous newlywed, new to the kitchen, could cook with beans with ease. Every recipe also includes frugal tips and substitution ideas so those of you who like to play with you recipes have somewhere to start.

In essence, most dishes have enough extra versions that one could almost say there are 100 beans recipes in these 95 pages!

Beyond recipes, The Everything Beans Book also offers over 20 pages of information to facilitate your new love of beans and make sure you can cook with dry beans without any stress.

My thoughts:
When I first saw this book, I thought this book was strictly about BEANS, but it's way more than that. There are recipes for wraps, sandwiches, soups, meatless, main dishes, sides, pastas and dessert! REALLY??

Guess what??
Right now for ONE MONTH, Katie is offering MY readers a special discount for The Everything Beans Book: 20% off!

Get The Everything Beans Book by Katie Kimball

20% off until February 12 (Save $2)

Coupon Code: Beans20

Booking It January 2012

2012-01-12T05:52:00.000-08:00

I think this is my 3rd year doing Booking It with Life As Mom! I have read LOTS of books these past few years since I have become a book reviewer which I never imagined I would do. My favorite things are reading and writing! However, this year I'm going to not read so many books and concentrate more on my family, but I will be reading, no doubt! So here are the books I have read for January:

Read my REVIEW of this FREE ebook!

Absolutely loved all 4 of these books! I will be giving away the last three sometime this year. Stay tuned!

Homemaking 101 DVD on SALE!

2012-01-11T12:21:00.000-08:00

Recently I reviewed Homemaking 101 DVD. This is a perfect gift for a new mom or for someone who wants to make a renewed commitment to homemaking! Jennifer is generously offering a 25% discount on Homemaking 101 until Wednesday, January 18! Pick up your copy today!

Homemaking 101

25% Discount until January 18

Coupon Code: TMM25

PS. Don't forget about the Pre-Order sale for Courageous! Save $7 before January 17. Click here to visit Family Vision Films

Jessna is 8 months old!

2012-01-06T07:30:00.000-08:00

Whew, time is flying by! Jessna is quite a different baby than Shrade in so many ways. In a few more months she will be 1 year old. She is so tiny to me still.

At 8 months Jessna:
*sits up by herself
*tracks people and objects
*rolls over in her crib (double swaddled)
*stands up supported
*makes funny buzzing sounds with her tongue
*objects when you take a toy away- watch out!

We are starting to do fun games like peek-a-boo and she is starting to respond with a smile. She reaches and grabs for things and immediately puts them in her mouth. We have to caution Shrade about what he can give to Jessna to play with. She just LOVES her big brother and he is mighty cute with her. You often hear him say, "Hello, smiley girl!" in a very sweet way. She gives him a huge grin and starts bouncing up and down.

"I don't care how the pacifier is supposed to go in my mouth, just that it is IN my mouth!"

Jessna's first puzzle!

And even though all these pictures show her in her element, she still can be very fussy. I tell daddy that sometimes I just want to send her to the "fussy farm." Of course, Shrade always acts up during those times as well, so I have two of them to drive me crazy!

If you are interested, it's fun to see Shrade at 8 months ! One thing that is really different is that Shrade had 6 teeth and Jessna has none!

Smart Sweets by Katie Kimball Book Review and Giveaway!!

2012-01-05T07:30:00.000-08:00

OK, you've made your New Year's Resolution to not eat sweets, BUT you don't know what you are missing from Katie Kimball @ Kitchen Stewardship who has just released her newest ebook Smart Sweets! Katie has given you 30 new recipes that are not only sweet, but smart! Yes, and you can indulge a little bit and still stick to that New Year's Resolution.

So what makes Katie's book so unique? Well, she takes ingredients that you know and creates the most delicious treats which include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nutrient dense foods like nuts and unrefined sweeteners. It's ok to have a few sweets and with these recipes you will be baking up goodies that will have people asking for more.

Not only does Katie supply 30 great recipes, she adds a good dose of useful information in her introduction to help you understand all about the benefits from these desserts. She explains why she created this book, why these recipes are healthi-ER and the difference between sweeteners.

Another great feature of Smart Sweets as well as her other ebook which I love (Healthy Snacks to Go) is the layout of her recipes. Katie has simple symbols that tell what kind of recipe it is like if it is gluten free, nut free or grain free. She also tells you timesaver tips, variations (like soaked options or alternative sweeteners), FAQ and notes from her kitchen like frugal tips. She also tells you the time needed for each recipe, the real food rating and the approximate cost. Wow!

I chose to test three recipes and one I will share with you right here in the giveaway! (Disclaimer: My pictures don't justify these foods. If you want to drool, you need to look at Katie's pictures!)

Pumpkin Cookies
2 c. butter or coconut oil (I used 1 cup of each)
1.5 c. sugar or sucanat (I tried 1/2 cup of sugar)
16 oz. can pumpkin
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
4 c. white whole wheat flour (I used 2 cups unbleached white flour and 2 cups whole wheat flour)
2 tsp. baking powder
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. allspice
1 tsp. salt
2 c. chocolate chips or raisins (I used 1 cup chocolate chips)
1 c. chopped nuts, optional (I used walnuts)

Beat together all the wet ingredients (butter, sugar, pumpkin, eggs, vanilla) in a bowl. Mix dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, nutmeg, allspice, salt) in another bowl. Combine together. Add in chocolate chips, raisins and nuts.

I used a ice cream scoop about a Tablespoon to drop cookies on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 350 for 12 minutes. Makes 3-5 dozen. Store in freezer.

In her book Katie gives all kinds of suggestions for alternatives for sweeteners and fats. I almost tried the honey, but I stuck with sugar. She says honey would be much lighter and fluffier.

My thoughts: I should have used a bit more sugar, but with the chocolate chips and coconut oil, there was a slight sweet taste. I hardly feel guilty eating these at all since there is barely any sugar in them. My son gobbled his cookie right up and asked for more. I loved the moistness of this cookie. I give it a thumbs up!

Traditional Brownies with Walnuts

My thoughts: These are super chewy after being left in the pan. They were great with the coconut oil, but I would probably add more chocolate. I wish I had sucanat which is natural sugar, but all I have is white sugar. However, I used wheat flour for the batter. Another thumbs up!

Easy Vanilla Pudding

My thoughts: Now you see it, now you don't! YUMMY! This was so creamy and delicious. The main ingredient was milk. I love knowing exactly what went into my pudding. Not only that, it was easy to make. I gobbled this cup of pudding up so fast. Wow! This is one I will make again and again.

So have any of these recipes/pictures caught your eye?! Hope so! Read on!

Disclosure: I am an affiliate of Kitchen Stewardship’s eBooks, which means I’ll earn a small commission from any sales made through these links.

*This product was provided to me free of charge for purpose of this review. This is my honest opinion of this book and no monetary compensation was received for my opinion.*

BUY IT: You can get Smart Sweets right now through 1/19/12 by using this discount code for 25% off: JS25. If you purchase the book and win, you will get a full refund (and maybe another ebook as well).

WIN IT: I am having a giveaway for Smart Sweets! Open to anyone and giveaway ends Tuesday, January 17.

To enter: Be sure to click on all the links before filling out the entry form.

1. Check out the table of contents and tell me which recipe from Smart Sweets interests you the most. (required)

2. Be a follower on my blog

3. Subscribe to my blog by email (link on blog)

4."Like" The Knowlton Nest on Facebook (link on my blog).

5. "Like" Kitchen Stewardship on Facebook.

6. Post about this giveaway on another site (your blog, facebook,twitter, etc) (1 entry for every site)

Entry for Smart Sweets Ebook

Courageous- The Movie: Pre-Order Sale!!

2012-01-04T10:05:00.000-08:00

Have you seen Courageous? I did! It was awesome. I'm ready to add it to my Kendrick brothers film collection (Flywheel, Facing the Giants, Fireproof). This is a great movie for fathers (and mothers too) because it really shows the role a father needs to play in the lives of their children. This is a very emotional movie, but with a lot of action. I appreciate the God-honoring values that are so rare in today's society that are portrayed with boldness in this movie.

Right now Family Vision Films has a pre-order sale. Sale price is $17.99.

*Retail price: $24.99
*Your price at Family Vision Films: $17.99
*Savings: $7.00

Synopsis:
Four men, one calling: To serve and protect.

As law enforcement officers, Adam Mitchell, Nathan Hayes, David Thomson, and Shane Fuller are confident and focused. Yet at the end of the day, they face a challenge that none of them are truly prepared to tackle: fatherhood. While they consistently give their best on the job, good enough seems to be all they can muster as dads. But they're quickly discovering that their standard is missing the mark.

When tragedy hits home, these men are left wrestling with their hopes, their fears, their faith, and their fathering. Can a newfound urgency help these dads draw closer to God ... and to their children? Filled with action-packed police drama, COURAGEOUS is the fourth film from Sherwood Pictures, the moviemaking ministry of Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia. Viewers will once again find themselves laughing, crying, and cheering as they are challenged and inspired by everyday heroes who long to be the kinds of dads that make a lifelong impact on their children. Protecting the streets is second nature to these men. Raising their children in a God-honoring way? That's courageous.

Get Courageous today!

Pre-order for ONLY $17.99
(Order before January 17th to get this price)

Click here to visit Family Vision Films