GROW - In Theaters October 17!!!

You know how every fall we say we’re going to do all the cozy family things — apple picking, hayrides, pumpkin spice everything — and then by mid-October we’re just trying to locate one matching mitten and praying no one remembers that “we promised to carve pumpkins this weekend”?

Yeah. Same.

There’s a New Movie We’re Adding to Our Fall Bucket List 

A family-friendly film called GROW is hitting theaters October 17, and it’s basically pumpkin spice in movie form. It’s cozy, it’s funny, and it’s one of those rare family films that doesn’t involve anyone screaming (except, possibly, your toddler during previews).

You can already grab tickets here ➡️ GrowTheFilm.com — and I highly recommend doing so before the kids pick another superhero sequel “because it has explosions.”

What’s It About?

At the heart of GROW is the sweet (and sometimes prickly) bond between a no-nonsense aunt and her spirited niece. The story takes place in the Pumpkin Capital of the World (which is already a mood), where little Charlie—who has a magical knack for connecting with plants—sets her sights on growing the biggest pumpkin in town.

Her pumpkin “Peter” becomes the talk of the neighborhood, but the real magic happens as her aunt, Dinah, learns that family can grow in the most unexpected places—kind of like the pumpkin vine that takes over your garden when you ignore it for two days.

Throw in some curmudgeonly farmers, rival growers who clearly take their pumpkins way too seriously, and a whole lot of heart, and you’ve got a story that’ll make you laugh, maybe tear up a little, and definitely crave a slice of pumpkin pie.

Why I’m Excited to Take the Kids

Because not everything in October needs to involve skeletons jumping out of closets, thank you very much.
GROW is that perfect fall alternative — warm, whimsical, and full of color (and personality… apparently even the pumpkins have character).

Plus, Charlie’s love for “wild gardening” might even inspire our crew to finally water the houseplants again. Maybe.

Fun Extras for the Kids

There’s even a downloadable kids’ activity book you can grab from the movie’s website — which means they can color pumpkins before we end up finding a moldy one on the porch in November.

Giveaway Time! 🎁

To celebrate the movie’s release, I’m giving away a $10 Amazon gift card (U.S. only). All you have to do is comment below with your favorite fall family tradition — pumpkin patch? cider donuts? pretending not to see the candy wrappers under your kid’s bed? And include how I can reach you - email, IG handle etc.

Winner will be drawn and submitted by October 24, so don’t miss it!

Where to Find More GROW Goodness

🎟️ Buy tickets: GrowTheFilm.com
📘 Facebook: @GrowTheFilm
📸 Instagram: @growthefilm
🎵 TikTok: @growthefilm
📺 YouTube: @GrowTheFilm
👉 Hashtag: #GrowTheFilm #GrowMovieMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

---

Bottom line: Whether your fall bucket list includes corn mazes, carving pumpkins, or just surviving homework season, GROW is one of those rare movies that gives you all the autumn feels without the haunted-house-level stress.

Grab your popcorn (and maybe your tissues). 🍿
Grow hits theaters October 17 — and trust me, it’s going to grow on you.

Many thanks to US Pumpkin Distribution, LLC for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. 

Plan for your future

I'll be the first to admit that I wasn't really worried about or planning for the future until I became a parent. It brings a sense of gravity to life, and a feeling of responsibility I didn't feel before becoming a parent. At this time in life my husband and I made a few changes to plan for a better future for our family and our children. What does it look like to make plans for a better future?

1. Create a Will. It's isn't hard, and it isn't timely, and it doesn't have to be expensive. There are sites online where you can create your will online, and then just get it notarized to make it official. Some employers offer Employee Assistance Programs with free legal services for documents such as this. It ensures that what you want ot happen after you're gone, will actually happen. It also safeguards children from ending up in the foster system with a plan in place for where they would go should the worst-case scenario happen.

2. Consider Life Insurance. There is term life insurance or whole life insurance. Term means you are only covered for the next 10/20/30 years, and then it drops. This is great for someone who is trying to become financially stable, and will likely have a good-size nest egg in 10/20/30 years and wouldn't need the money should something happen.  Life insurance covers you for life, but I believe is on the pricier side. Don't take my word for it, and always do your own research! One company to look into could be Fabric. Fabric by Gerber Life is a life insurance innovator that offers instant decisions and affordable policies. They offer custodial Roth IRAs also, if you were in the market for some tax-deferred savings for your child (which brings me to point #3). Overall having Life Insurance takes the stress out of the future. 

3. Get financially savvy and pay off debts in order to build up wealth. My husband and I went through the Financial Freedom course by Dave Ramsey and found it so helpful. His philosophy is to start out small and work your way up. Start out with paying off your smallest debt, whatever it may be. His mindset is build some momentum. Pay off the smallest and then work your way up to the biggest, likely a mortgage for many. In between paying off these debts, start putting money away for an emergency fund. Emergencies will come, so why not be prepared for them. If you are prepared, the emergency doesn't hold the panic it might have before. This has been so helpful in our lives. We worked 2 and 3 jobs to pay off debts and build up savings, so we were prepared for what might come. You can also set up savings accounts like IRAs and 529 plans to put money aside for what may be needed in the future - retirement and kids' educations!

These are just a few ways you can plan ahead and try to take the stress out of potentially stressful situations that may arise in the future.

Many thanks to Responsival for sponsoring this post!

Feel Better, but How?

How many of us make goals, yet lack the plan to make these goals come to fruition? As a mom of four, my goal is often to eat healthier, get more sleep, take more time for myself, or exercise more, but how to do that with a full-time job and four active kids? I think success happens when goals are broken down, and then plans are made!

Make a plan, get the right tools to make it happen, and keep it realistic!

If my goal is to work out more, what would need to happen. First, I need to find time in my day to make this possible. Perhaps 20 minutes before the kids get up, on lunch break, or when they go to bed at night. Next, what would make it more enjoyable? How about cute outfits, or a fun water bottle to motivate me? Sure, why not? If I struggle with joint pain when exercising, making sure I have the appropriate supports to exercise. If you have weak ankles like me, getting ankle support socks may do the trick. Fit it in your schedule, make it fun, and keep it safe.

Let's say my plan is to eat healthier. There are food delivery services or meal delivery services that cater to certain dietary restrictions. We have tried them in the past and LOVED them. These meal services not only provided the recipes, but also all the ingredients needed to make the meal. They allowed us to select the serving size too. We could get a meal for 2 or 4 people or even larger I believe.  For others who don't enjoy cooking, perhaps they prep meals on the weekend and have ready to go healthy meals all week long. One day of agony in the kitchen, for a full week of easy healthy meals ready to go. It could look different for everyone. So goal made, and plan made to make this happen.

Let's say I want to take more time for myself. Perhaps this means putting the kids to bed 15 minutes earlier, or waking them up 15 minutes later in the morning. For some it may mean allowing the kids to watch an extra show so mommy can drink her tea or coffee while it's still hot (I love my heated mug, which makes this possible!), or read a good book. For those of you with childcare options, maybe hiring a sitter once a week so you and a friend can go out and unload all the weights you carry as a parent or as an adult. No one said adulting is easy, right? Sometimes you just need a mental break. For some it may mean putting on a good reality show and just zoning out to someone else's drama. Make a plan so the goal can be achieved.

Many thanks to Responsival for sponsoring this post!

Watch TESTAMENT Today on Angel!

The Book of Acts explosively reimagined in an alternate-modern era. A resurrection

sparks a movement that turns the world upside down, spreading hope amid chaos. As the

followers risk everything to preach the good news, the Temple races to silence them

before the oppressive Imperium regime retaliates. But public miracles, unburied secrets,

and fractured loyalties force both sides to confront the true cost of their choices.

This powerful live-action series will challenge you, move you, and make you rethink what

it means to truly follow Jesus. Set in a modern world, you'll connect with these stories

and people like never before.

______________________________

It reminds me a lot of another popular Biblical re-enactment series that has been out for 3 or 4 seasons on another platform. It's a great way to bring the Bible to life!

______________________________

Stream the full season of Testament today on Angel!

Testament is now streaming on Angel.com and the Angel App, available to all Angel Guild members.

#TestamentMIN

#AngelStudios

The Chosen Last Supper

The Chosen is a groundbreaking historical drama based on the life of Jesus (Jonathan Roumie), seen through the eyes of those who knew him. Set against the backdrop of Roman oppression in first-century Israel, the seven-season series shares an authentic and intimate look at Jesus’ revolutionary life and teachings.

With over 250 million viewers (as of 7/27/24), The Chosen is one of the most-watched shows in the world. The Chosen is back for Holy Week, the most pivotal week in human history. Tables are turned. Friends are betrayed. And powerful leaders plot the death of Jesus. The Chosen: Last Supper is the must see event of the Easter season.

The Chosen: Last Supper is releasing in theaters in 3 parts! Part One (episodes 1-2) releases on March 28; Part Two (episodes 3-5) releases on April 4; and Part Three (episodes 6-8) releases on April 11.

Watch this powerful new season of The Chosen in theaters starting March 28th!

About this film:

The people of Israel welcome Jesus as king while his disciples anticipate his crowning. But—instead of confronting Rome—he turns the tables on the Jewish religious festival. Their power threatened, the country’s religious and political leaders will go to any length to ensure this Passover meal is Jesus’ last. 

Watch Trailer here:

BUY TICKETS TO SEE IT TODAY: https://thechosenlastsupper.com/tickets/?booknow

WIN IT:  $10 Amazon giftcard

HOW TO ENTER: Leave a comment down below with your thoughts and a way to reach you

Many thanks to Come And See Foundation for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

#TheChosenLastSupperMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

NEW CSB Jesus Daily Bible

 The NEW CSB Jesus Daily Bible includes a 52-week, Christ-focused, guided reading plan that you can join at any point during the year.

Day by day, you'll thematically study Scripture through a weekly introduction, helpful articles and infographics, and a weekly summary to help you understand Jesus’s central role from Genesis to Revelation.

I'll admit I haven't been great about reading my Bible consistently, or at all, outside of church or studies, so I thought something like this would be helpful. While it is, it's still a lot to read every day. Perhaps I need a read the Bible in 2 years Bible. Now, there's a product idea for busy parents out there :-).

Learn more at CSBJesusDailyBible.com

Purchase HERE

Many thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

#JesusDailyBibleMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork @christianstandardbible @bhpub #jesusdailybible #dailybible #bibleinayear #christianstandardbible #csb #csbible #holmanbible #bhpub

GIVEAWAY: $10 Amazon Giftcard

 You Are a Child of God is a faith-based children’s coloring book designed to be shared between a child and their caregiver. This helps foster meaningful connections and conversations about God’s love from a young age.

You Are a Child of God is more than a book - each page invites children (and adults)to color, creating a calming and creative experience while reading and engaging

with Scripture.

The book encourages reflection on key biblical truths, making it perfect for family devotionals or bedtime readings, creating special moments between loved ones.

The book draws from verses like Psalm 139:13-18 and Jeremiah 29:11 to remind children of their identity in Christ.

The holidays are just around the corner, and You Are a Child of God is a thoughtful gift for someone special. Whether it’s for parents expecting a little one, children in your family, or even a friend who loves creative, faith-filled activities, this book of-fers something meaningful. It’s not just a coloring book - it’s a way to reflect on God’s love and create wonderful memories. It’s also a perfect stocking stuffer for Sunday school students or a unique addition to a family’s faith journey. Give a gift that inspires and shares God’s love this season!

Order You Are a Child of God today, in time for Christmas: https://a.co/d/fukmTpe

I feel like this is more of a positive affirmation/word of the day type book than a coloring book, but it is beautiful. I love the watercolor look to each page. It's very soothing. If my elementary age child asked for a coloring book I feel they would be disappointed in the small amount of space available to color, but for an adult, or a teen to do with a family member or friend, it would be a nice gift!

Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card

HOW TO ENTER: Comment down below with a way to contact you if you win (IG handle, FB etc)

Many thanks to GoodWorks Mission for providing a sample of the product for this re-

view. Opinions are 100% my own.

#YouAreAChildOfGodMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

A Magical Cirque Christmas

MagicSpace Entertainment today revealed its full cast of illusionists, circus performers, and specialized acts featured in this year’s national tour of A Magical Cirque Christmas, returning this holiday season for a very merry tour to more than 30 U.S. cities. 

The ultimate holiday extravaganza will mesmerize, twist, flip, and jingle all the way to THE PLAYHOUSE ON RODNEY SQUARE for ONE SHOW ONLY on Sunday, December 8, 2024, at 3 PM. Loaded with nostalgia, charm, comedy, music, and magic, A Magical Cirque Christmas makes a perfect date night, fun family adventure or group outing. The show’s world-acclaimed entertainers take audiences on a winter wonderland journey, immersing them in the spirit of the season and dazzling guests with their incredible talents.

 Tickets are now on sale to the general public and can be purchased online at

TheGrandWilmington.org or by calling 302.888.0200.

I am so excited to see this show. We have seen Cirque Holidaze and other shows in the past and I am always amazed at what these performers are able to pull off. Some stunts make you hold your breath until the act is over, for fear that they will slip or fall, but I can't wait!

Thank you to The Grand for the chance to see this show in person!

GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

 

The Herdman kids are absolutely the worst. They lie, they steal, they bully...and they’ve hijacked the town Christmas pageant. Directed by Dallas Jenkins (“The Chosen”) and based on the international bestseller by Barbara Robinson, THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER follows six siblings who sneak into church searching for snacks and walk away with the lead roles in the town pageant. Grace (Judy Greer) is directing the performance for the very first time; she and her daughter Beth (Molly Belle Wright) and husband Bob (Pete Holmes) are less than amused. But the play’s mischievous stars might unwittingly teach a community the true meaning of Christmas. Featuring Lauren Graham. Screenplay by Ryan Swanson and Platte F. Clark & Darin McDaniel.

My kids and I watched this film last night, and at first I wasn't sure because the Herdman kids were rough. They were smoking, hitting, stealing etc, and I was worried the takeaway from the film was that kids could act like that, but by the end, my kids seemed to understand that everyone should be welcome in church, and people can change. It was a really enjoyable film. It had moments where I felt sad and wished we were foster parents again because these kids could have used some parents who were looking out for them, and then other times when we were all laughing together. I was even teary eyed at one point because a moment was so touching. I would highly recommend this film for kids and adults alike. For reference, my kids range from ages 4-12. 

Watch this moving family film in theaters starting November 8!

Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card (Note: This is limited to US winners only.

How To Enter: Leave a comment down below with a way to contact you if you win!

Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

#TheBestChristmasPageantEverMIN #TheBestChristmasPageantEver #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

LOST ON A MOUNTAIN IN MAINE

 

Note: This film contains several instances of mild language.

#LostOnAMountainInMaineMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork Synopsis:  Lost on a Mountain in Maine tells the inspiring true story of 12-year-old Donn Fendler, who becomes separated from his family by a fast-moving storm atop a treacherous mountain. For nine days Donn fights to stay alive as he attempts to survive the unforgiving wilderness of northern Maine without food, proper clothing, or the knowledge of how bad his situation really is. His disappearance sparks a massive search effort that captures national headlines and attracts hundreds of volunteers, including his own father who fears he may never see his son again. Release Date: 11/1 My thoughts: I was put off by the immediate language in the first 30 seconds, and almost turned it off, but once I got to the actual plot, it was a really good movie. Sibling rivalry, survival, parenting woes, tough love...all concepts I enjoy in a good movie. If you don't enjoy language, you probably won't enjoy the "interview" portions of this movie, but otherwise it was a well done film. GIVEAWAY: $10 Amazon Giftcard limited to US winners only. HOW TO ENTER: Leave a comment down below, with how to reach you if you win (IG handle, email, or FB name)

The Christmas Tree Farm by Melody Carlson

 About this book:

When Madison McDowell returns from several years teaching overseas, she has high hopes of picking up where she left off at her family's Christmas tree farm in Oregon. But between damage from a recent wildfire and the neglect due to her sister Addie's unwillingness to invest, the farm is in sad shape. In fact, Addie is intent on selling the property. And to top it off, her former high school flame, the now-widowed Gavin Thompson, has plans to break Madison's heart again by turning his neighboring property into a dusty, noisy dirt bike track for his daughter.With the odds stacked against her, Madison decides there's only one thing to double down on her dreams. It will take a ton of hard work--and some help from an unlikely ally--to save the farm she so dearly loves. But it may take a miracle to restore her relationship with her sister.Bestselling and award-winning author Melody Carlson charms and delights with this uplifting Christmas story full of old memories and new beginnings.

My Thoughts:

I have really enjoyed all of Melody Carlson‘s holiday books to date and this was no exception. While being very predictable, it was a very enjoyable read. I really love how so to speak, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. One sister didn’t want anything to do with the Christmas tree farm and the outdoors and the other one saw it as her escape and as her home. Everyone truly does have different gifts and different passions and I think that works to our advantage.  I would recommend this book to get in the holiday spirit.

#TheChristmasTreeFarm

What's on YOUR List?

As the Summer fades into Fall, it's time to think about back to school, and Fall festivities, and....the holiday shopping season. We are already planning our annual holiday gift guide series, so I'm curious, what might be on your wish list?

New Shoes or athletic Gear?

The Latest Tech?

A New Beauty Release?

Clothing?

Let me know in the comments below!