Good Morning Girls Book Club Intro Questions

So, I am part of Good Morning Girls and this summer we are doing a Book Club study using The Ministry of Motherhood: Following Christ's Example in Reaching the Hearts of Our Children by Sally Clarkson.  I have been so challenged not only by reading this book (just the intro so far), but also by the SOAP study that Angela and Courtney have developed to go along with this with verses that pertain to being a mother.  I'll share more in another post about that.  But here are the questions I answered for the Introduction.

1. What purpose do think God had in mind when he designed the role of mother? Have you ever specifically considered that, in becoming a mother, you have actually been called to a ministry? In what ways does this concept change how you think about your role?

I think God's purpose as a mother is for me to be an example of Christ to my children. I know that my role as a mother is my ministry, but I don't have a specific plan.

2. Read Psalm 127:3- if possible, in more than one translation. What does this imply about the ministry of motherhood?

From Psalm 127:3 my ministry as a mother is to teach my children about having a relationship with God and I am to cherish every day with them and take every opp to love and train them.


3. Proverbs 31: 10-31 paints a vivid portrait of the life of a godly woman. Describe what a Proverbs 31 life might look like in modern context. What parts of this description do you find particularly inspiring? What areas pose a challenge for you? How do you think these reactions relate to your ministry as a mother?

A Proverbs 31 woman does it all. I'm inspired to be a woman that can accomplish so much, but I'm completely challenged to try to fit it all in. I know that I need to make a plan.

4. Read Proverbs 14:1. In what specific ways can a woman in this day and age build her house or tear it down? If possible, give examples from your own observation or experience. Then list four specific ways you to want to build your house by ministering to your children and making disciples of them.

Four ways I can build my house: 1- Control my emotions when responding to my son (use patience and understanding) 2- Teach spiritual every day (Bible story, song, BV, prayer) 3- teach academically every day (school time) 4- have fun every day (laugh and play).

5. Write out a plan for ministering to your own children using the acronym GIFTS. List at least one goal for each letter.



G- gift of grace
Model how to handle situations calmly and teach my children to do the same.

I- gift of inspiration
Praise my children when they make good choices and remind them that they are obeying God.

F- gift of faith
Talk about what God has done in our lives.

T- gift of training
Give moral reasons why for behavior based on God's Word.

S- gift of service

Find ways for my children to serve family and beyond.

What about you?  Do any of these questions challenge you?  I can't wait to read more about GIFTS which is what the rest of the book is about.  I am literally changing who I am as a mother each day as I study God's word and read this book.  I am SO glad that I'm part of this study.

God's Nuggets: David...Seeking a Heart Like His Week #7

Yay!  I was able to make to Bible study this week and Jessna slept the whole time so I could enjoy myself.  I did get there a little late, but I think it was worth it since I fed her right before we left. 

This lesson was about David's sin concerning Bathsheba.

Here's what I learned this week:
*I need to safeguard myself from isolation which can possibly lead to sin.
*When I am tempted, I pray for the Holy Spirit to convict me and that I would confess and repent.
*I cannot live my life with God with an unrepentant heart.
*Sometimes the lowest points in my relationship with God can bring me close to him.
*God wants me to confess my sin so I can have restored fellowship.

Shrade is 2.5 today!!

There is no other smile from a little boy that lights up my day!  Shrade is 2.5 today and what a lot of growing he has done this past 6 months.  He went from speaking a few words in a sentence to asking questions, responding to questions, making up silly sayings and singing all the time.  He also has a running dialogue of his life.  It has been so fun to see his language explode.

Here are a few funny things he says:
*"Where's my _______________?  Oh, there it is!  I found it!"  (He likes to hold out the word where's)
*One day I was putting some moose slippers on that Grandma Linda gave him and he said, "Like a glove."  That is from the movie Ace Ventura- Pet Detective.  Jeremy had said that the other night when parking the car.
*Shrade has two of his cars talking to each other.  "Hi, how are you?"  "I've been better!"  (Don't know where he got that)

As you can see Shrade has a very funny sense of humor.  And everytime he "toots" in his diaper he thinks it's a FROG!

One BIG change that has happened just recently is that Shrade became a big brother to Jessna born on May 6.  We prepared him by reading stories about babies and I kept saying that baby was sleeping in mama's tummy.  We called the upcoming baby, Baby Surprise, and Shrade called it "Baby Prize."  He has really done well in stepping into the role as big brother.  He likes to throw away diapers and is very good at fetching things for mama when I'm nursing Jessna.  And he is really concerned that Jessna has her pacifier.  I thought he would react to her crying, but all he says is, "the baby cries."  He is really sweet with her.

Here's my little man playing dress up.  Shrade just loves using ordinary things for play.  We have had so much fun doing our Brightly Beaming Resources lessons and I have taught him several Bible verses from Songs for Saplings.  Shrade can even sing his ABC's and counts up to 10 in English and Spanish.

Daddy and Shrade have a blast making this "tent" quite often.  They also build with blocks and go on fun adventures in the garden and to the store.  The one really cool thing that we did recently was build an extra room in the attic and you can only get to it by going up a ladder.  You should have seen how quick he learned to climb the ladder.

Oh, and this little guy has so many quirks.  He still likes to suck his food even though we tell him to chew and he certainly can.  Hoping this passes soon!  And Shrade is quite obsessed with cars and trains.  In fact, we have a train track right outside our house, but we actually have to go outside to the road to see it.  One weekend a really cool steam engine train came through and we ran out several times to look at it.  Now, all Shrade talks about is that train.  "The train go down the hill" or "Oh, I hear the train!"

We will be doing lots of neat things this summer and taking Jessna along.  Well, we will update you again when Shrade turns 3 in November!

Sampler Village- great new find!

OK, I have a confession...I have found a new obsession!  I absolutely love samples and love Etsy and other sites that offer great products for women.  Well, I happened to be roaming the internet and found Sampler Village.  Traci searches high and low to find the best products to put in her monthly sample boxes.  I was so excited to receive my first box packed with 23 samples.  I have been using several products and I'm so in love!  Tonight I took a soak in the tub with a delightful bath fizzie.  Today I wore a pair of cute earrings and I put on the best lip balm ever!  Here is a picture of what I received:

Here is a list of what I received:
Seeds
Candle Tarts
Soap
Bath products
Lotion
Lip balm
Face Scrubbie
Hair clips
Gift tags
Cards
Facial soap
Moisturizer
Cell phone accessory
Cupcake topper

Sampler Village is a gathering of crafters and artisans (villagers) who send in samples to be in the Sampler Village sample boxes. This is a great form of advertising since it gets actual product out to potential buyers who get a little "tease" of your products. This is a great way to get your products and shop noticed. We get the boxes out to potential buyers that otherwise may have not known about your shop. Our goal at Sampler Village is to provide our "villagers" with a great advertising venue.

I am so excited to get more of these fun boxes.

Find Sampler Village:
Facebook
Blog
Website

Scandle Candle Review

Prepare to tantalize your senses and be enchanted by this wonderful product called Scandle Candle.  Even the name evokes a mysterious quality that invites you to experience a one of a kind delight!  I crave new products and unique scents.  This is one of my favorites so far!  I was sent the Shimmering Body Candle in Hummingbird scent.  I was thrilled when I lit the candle and smelled this incredible fragrance.  I also noticed that there were "sparkles" in the wax, ah, my body was going to shimmer when I smooth this on!  What I really liked about this product is that even though it is an oil, it was non greasy.  I also loved how soft my body felt after using this product.

The Scandle is a candle that burns at 2 degrees above body temperature so when you scoop it out it does not burn your skin, but makes a healthy body oil that can be used as moisturizer, massage, and cuticle treatments.  There are also added benefits such as masking skin imperfections and wrinkles by deflecting light and offering a natural glow.  I noticed when I smoothed on this oil that my skin was refreshed and retained the wonderful aroma for a long time.  I look forward to each time I can satiate my skin with  Scandle.  (Be sure to follow the burning instructions for safe handling.)

You will not be disappointed with Scandle.  This would make a wonderful gift as a treat for a friend, use as an after shower lotion or use for a romantic night.  The possibilities are endless.

You can purchase these products in many delectable scents at www.abodycandle.com or any of the retailers listed on their website.

Indulge your senses and use a truly unique product!  Pamper yourself today!

God's Nuggets: David...Seeking a Heart Like His Week #6

Hopefully I can go back to Bible study this week.  I've missed meeting with other women.  I'm glad I can keep up with the lessons at home between juggling baby, toddler and little sleep!

Here's my thoughts for this week:
*"When we wait on God, He gives supernatural strength and accomplishes the inconceivable."
*I need to spend time in praise and worship to God during my quiet time.
*The virtues of humility, accountability, worship, cooperation and administration are all ways David was a man after God's own heart.
*I can be like David and find someone who needs God's loving kindness.
*The characteristic most outstanding to me is accepting because that is where I am weakest.  I want to be a person who looks beyond and accepts just like David did.

Simple Green Review/Giveaway

There is nothing more appealing to me than a cleaning product that is multi-purpose.  I don't have time to figure out what product I can use for which surface.  That's why Simple Green is the product for me!  The All Purpose Cleaner is non-toxic, concentrated and biodegradeable.  It can be used in the kitchen, bathroom, laundry and outdoor.  The wonderful thing is that you can take the concentrated bottle and dilute for light cleaning or heavy cleaning.  The bottle that I received for review was 32 oz and can go a LONG way!  This product can be used on any water-safe surface.  I tested it on my kitchen counter (check!), in the toilet (check!), mopping floors (check!) and in the laundry (check!).  I love that this product is safe around children and pets as I have both!  The best thing about this product is that it saves you money by using this concentrated bottle and also replaces many other cleaning products.  This All Purpose Cleaner is a must have!

*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 visit Simple Green and enjoy the selection of fantastic products. Simple Green can be purchased at most major retailers including Home Depot, Walmart, Lowe's, Ace/True Value and many more.

Win it:  I am proud to have a giveaway for one of my readers. The winner will get a a 32 oz bottle of Original Concentrated Simple Green All Purpose Cleaner, a dilution spray bottle and a user guide!  Open to US only.  Must be 18+ and have a real street address.  No PO boxes as the prize is shipped by FedEX.  Giveaway ends Sunday, June 5.

To enter: Be sure to connect to all the links before filling out the form for entry.

1. Be a follower on my blog

2. Visit Simple Green and tell me which product you would like to try.

3. "Like" Simple Green on Facebook 

4. Follow Simple Green on Twitter- @simplegreennews

5. Subscribe to my blog by email

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

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

Entry for Simple Green Giveaway

God's Nuggets: David...Seeking A Heart Like His Week #5

Well, since I had my baby, I've had to give up going anywhere for a few weeks.  But I'm keeping up with my David Bible study somewhat by doing my homework and listening to the audios I missed so when I go back in a few weeks I will be caught up!

Here is what I learned this week:
*Whenever I feel unsettled, I need to know that God is my source of peace.
*I learned that "we can't always choose our battles, but we can make choices to affect our outcome."
*I learned that I need to use God's word wisely when I speak to my friends in Christ.
*Just as David was called to be a shepherd-king, I am called to serve as a leader (my children, women at MOPS)
*I can come to God in sadness, I can come to God in celebration.

Prefense Review and Giveaway!!

Germs, germs, germs.  They are everywhere and it seems like we pick them up and get sick so quickly.  I'm constantly using the hand sanitizer gels and also trying to find them at venues where my son and I go to play.  I dislike the thought of germs getting on my skin and then touching my face or other vulnerable areas where germs can spread to make life miserable!

Is there a solution to this problem?  Yes, it's Prefense!  What?  Never heard of of it.  Neither had I, but there's no going back to regular hand sanitizers after using this.  Why?  Take a look and see if you don't agree.

• No alcohol! Prefense is made of all-natural ingredients and has absolutely NO alcohol in it! (water based)
•  Our technology protects you for 24 hours or 10 hand washings! (Yep, I wash my hands a lot and they are still protected.)
• Prefense is non-toxic and safe for kids! It will not hurt you if swallowed! (I love this.  My 2 year old son can use it too.)
• Prefense is silica based and actually smooths and softens your hands. (Soft hands are nice!)
• Prefense protects against staph, strep, E.coli, drug resistant MRSA strains, and more. We fight germs that other hand sanitizers can’t. (That's a clincher for me.)
• Because “one spray lasts all day” our 1.5 oz Prefense Foaming Hand Sanitizer offers 120 applications, costing only $.08 per day, compared to $1.20 per day with alcohol hand sanitizers. (This is a great compact to carry in my purse when I am on the go.)

WOW! 

Be sure to connect with Prefense on Facebook and Twitter.

*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: Go to Prefense to find a store locator.

Win it: Prefense is offering one of my readers an 8 oz. bottle of foaming hand sanitizer!  That's 640 applications or 2 years worth of protection!  Giveaway for US residents only.  Ends Sunday, May 29.

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

1. What aspect of Prefense do you like the most?  (see the list in the review)  

2. Be a follower of my blog

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

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

5. "Like" Prefense on Facebook

6. Follow @Prefense on Twitter

Entry for Prefense Hand Sanitizer

Tropical Traditions Coconut Soap Review/Giveaway

I am always truly amazed with Tropical Traditions products.  There are so many uses for one product.  I chose to review the Coconut Unscented Soap.  The first time I took a shower I decided to try this soap as "shampoo."  I rubbed it in my hands and it made such a quick rich lather.  I scrubbed it on my hair and left it on for a few minutes.  I also used it for washing my body.  I enjoyed the foam and how easy it rinsed off my skin.  The smoothness after was refreshing!  I then rinsed my hair and it was so silky smooth.  When I got out of the shower my whole body felt clean and rejuvenated.  After my hair was dry, it was so soft and easy to manage.  I love this soap!  This would also make a great product to take on trips because you can use it for every aspect of showering and washing hands.  No need for lotions to be bagged up and put through security!

The natural ingredients are undeniable.  This bar is made from saponified organic virgin coconut oil.  That's it!

Buy it: Right now 1 Coconut Bar Soap is $4.50.  I can tell that it will last for awhile!  A little goes a long way.

When you place your order please use my ID # to get your FREE book: 6015262 in the "Referred by a Friend".  (Thank you!) You can also obtain your own complimentary copy of Virgin Coconut Oil book through the Referral program if you are ordering for the first time.  Please click: http://www.tropicaltraditions.com/referral_program.htm for more info. The book will be automatically be added to your order.  I encourage you to look through the website for some great products.  I have already tried the Lavender Natural Deodorant (aluminum free), the Organic Shredded Coconut, the Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil, Coconut Peanut Butter, Raw Honey, Powdered Laundry Detergent, Skin Exfoliator, Liquid Dish soap, Oxygen Bleach and Anti oxidant natural greens.  Be sure to sign up for their newsletter to get updated information on products and sales.

If you need any help in placing your order please click here: http://www.tropicaltraditions.com/customerservice.cfm.

Disclaimer: Tropical Traditions provided me with a free sample of this product to review, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose.  Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review in return for the free product.

Win it:  One reader will receive 1 Coconut Bar Soap.  Giveaway ends Sunday, May 29.

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

1. Be a follower on my blog 

2. Visit Tropical Traditions and tell me another product you would like to try.

3. Subscribe to my blog by email. 

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

5. "Like" Tropical Traditions on Facebook

6. Follow Tropical Traditions on Twitter

7. Sign up for the Tropical Traditions Newsletter.

8. Make a purchase at Tropical Traditions using my referral code: 6015262 (+5)

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

Entry for Tropical Traditions Coconut Bar Soap

Robert Pierre Preview (High School Recording Artist)

Robert Pierre is soon to be high school graduate who has an awesome CD coming out this summer called "Im All In."  I previewed 4 of his songs and they are amazing.  Each has a great message with catchy tunes that would appeal to listeners of all ages.  This young talent not only sings but plays the guitar and does background vocals.  His heart is to reach teens and tweens with God's love through song. His passion is to be sold out for Christ and it shows quite clearly in the music that he records.   I am amazed at how he has been able to balance school and music as well as have down time to play basketball with his friends.  This young man is one to watch!

You can listen to 4 songs for FREE right now!
1.  CLICK this link:  https://www.noisetrade.com/robertpierre#

2.  Once on NoiseTrade, you simply click the Robert Pierre EP image to open the online player.
       You will see the 4 songs: (simply click on the song you'd like to listen too)
       1.  JESUS
       2.  YOU HOLD ME NOW
       3.  BREAKING MY HEART
       4.  IDENTITY

       AND, if you're interested in downloading all four songs for FREE to have on your own computer or ipod, NoiseTrade.com provides that downloadable zip file of the 4 songs when you enter your email address, postal code & click NEXT (just under the online player).  After you click NEXT, NoiseTrade will email you a link that you can quickly click to have the 4 songs downloaded.

Be sure to check out Robert's Facebook page.

Here's Robert doing trick basketball shots with his friends!

This summer, Robert's full length CD will be released this summer. Check back for my review and giveaway!!

Pear Tree Greetings: Notelettes

Lately I've noticed that I've been craving more and more personal ways to show friends that I love them.  I find that very easy using fun and unique cards.  For instance, I wrote notes to all the girls at my MOPS table to go along with an end of the year gift.  I also like to sneak little notes of love in my husband's lunchbox and I've noticed the he keeps them in there.  I think it means a lot to him that I write those terms of endearment!  And recently I've had a lot of friends blessing me with meals after our new little one has been born.  There's just something about a handwritten note that goes deeper than a quick email.  No matter how you choose to express your gift of love, think about Pear Tree Greetings. 

I just noticed that they have these cute little notelettes that are only $13.49 for 24.  Here are some examples:

I love that you can personalize these cards too!

So take a moment and think about who you can bless in short note and pick out some cute notelettes.

Go to

Pear Tree Greetings

Click on Friends

Click on Notelettes

While you are there, check out all the other fun products that they have.

I'm looking at baby thank you notes!

*As an affiliate, I receive a small commission from each sale*

Pear Tree Greetings Party Invitations Giveaway!

Summer is the time for parties!  

What parties are you planning this summer?  

Why not choose Pear Tree Greetings as your official resource for party invites? 

Look at these fun ways to invite your friends to party with you this summer.

Anniversary invite

BBQ invite

Summer party invite

Birthday invite

Giveaway time: Win 24 FREE party invitations.

Giveaway ends Sunday, May 22.

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

1. Be a follower on my blog

2. What product do you like best from Pear Tree Greetings? 

3. What kind of party do you like to throw?  

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

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

6. "Like" Pear Tree Greetings on Facebook

7. Make a purchase at Pear Tree Greetings. (5 extra entries!)

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

Entry for Pear Tree Greetings 24 FREE party invitations

Booking It- May 2011

I'm also Blogging through the Gospels with Mom's Toolbox.  Reading about 1 chapter a day and doing a SOAP devotional.  I highly recommend this type of study.  You will learn so much about yourself, God and His Word!  This last month was Matthew.

My favorites this month:
*Warrior Prayers by Brooke McGlothlin- I spent 21 days praying 21 different virtues for my son.  You can buy the ebook.
*The Fitting Room: Putting On the Character of Christ by Kelly Minter is a must have!
*Courting Miss Amsel by Kim Vogel Sawyer is my new favorite author.  This book was a great fiction page-turner.

*Book Club Book: Finding Your Purpose as a Mom: How to Build Your Home on Holy Ground by Donna Otto
I liked this book and the principles presented.  There were some good questions for reflections.  I would probably read it again to really get to the meat of the message.

PS- Current book giveaway for My Foolish Heart