Grow Movie Family Friendly Review

Movies 

Movie Review: GROW the Film 

There’s a new family-friendly movie opening today in theaters nationwide that’s just in time for pumpkin spice season and Halloween. Announcing the big-screen release of GROW, a film that kids and parents will enjoy seeing together which is full of the coziness of a hot pumpkin spice latte as well as a funny and entertaining alternative for those families who prefer not to watch scary movies. 

Many thanks to US Pumpkin Distribution, LLC for providing advance access to this movie for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

The Latest in Kids Fall Entertainment

If you’re looking for a wholesome, feel-good movie to celebrate fall, GROW will warm your heart and leave you smiling. The story centers around Charlie, an imaginative and curious young girl who discovers the magic of nature in her own backyard when one of the pumpkins she's growing for the town pumpkin contest, an adorably named pumpkin named Peter, starts to talk. What begins as a small gardening project blossoms into a delightful adventure about friendship, patience, and learning to care for something that depends on you. 

Charlie’s bond with Peter the pumpkin is what makes this film truly special. Their conversations are both funny and full of gentle life lessons that resonate with kids and adults alike. Peter isn’t just a talking pumpkin— she’s a reminder that growth, whether it’s a plant or a person, takes time, care, and love. Parents will appreciate the film’s deeper message about nurturing responsibility and the importance of protecting the environment. 

Check out the

GROW Movie Trailer

The colorful fall scenery, from golden leaves to pumpkin patches, creates the perfect cozy autumn vibe, while the film’s gentle humor keeps even the youngest viewers entertained. The animation (or, if live action, the practical effects) brings Peter to life in a way that feels real and magical at the same time—think a friendlier cousin to Olaf from the movie Frozen, but made of pumpkin and kindness. 

Beyond its entertainment value, GROW quietly teaches kids about sustainability, gardening, and appreciating the natural world. Charlie’s enthusiasm for planting seeds and caring for his little garden patch is contagious -- you might just find your own children asking to grow something after watching this movie! 

GROW Kids Activity Book

8 Pages of FUN FREE Printable

Ideas to discuss at home after seeing GROW together

• The Power of Patience: How did Charlie learn that growing things takes time and effort? What other parts of life need patience too? 
• Friendship and Caring: What does Peter teach Charlie about being a good friend and taking care of others? 
• Love for the Earth: How can your family help the environment like Charlie did in the movie? 

Some fun kids activities inspired by the movie 

• Plant a Pumpkin Patch: Get hands-on by planting pumpkin seeds. Kids will love checking each day to see how their plants “grow,” just like Charlie. 
• Make Recycled Planters: Reuse old milk cartons, jars, or yogurt cups as planters. Let kids decorate them with paint or markers to personalize their “Peter the Pumpkin” pots. 
• Start a Compost Pile or Recycling Bin: Start a family compost bin or set up recycling containers to learn how to reduce waste and help the planet. 
• Outdoor Gratitude Walk: Take a family stroll through a local park or your neighborhood to appreciate nature and discuss what you’re thankful for this season.

With its uplifting message, relatable lovable characters, and gorgeous autumn visuals, GROW is sure to become a new seasonal favorite. If you'd like to plan a fall family movie night out, this heartwarming film reminds us that the smallest seeds—of kindness, care, and curiosity—can grow into something truly beautiful. 

More About the Movie 

To learn more about GROW the film, visit the official movie website as well as follow the film on social media @GrowTheFilm on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. Find a theater near you and Buy Tickets Now.

Fall Fashion Accessory Trends for Moms

Style

by Janis Brett Elspas, Editor

Mommy Blog Expert

MBE partnered with Responsival for this story, post contains affiliate links

Fall 2025 Styling Inspo for Busy Moms

Now that the kids are back to school, and you're finally done with the endless shopping lists for your children this fall, it's time to shift your focus back to you. 

Whether you are an on-the-go stay-at-home mom juggling playdates or a working mom balancing career and family, fall is the perfect season to freshen up your everyday looks. With cooler days ahead, you don't need a total wardrobe overhaul -- just a little mix-and-match magic using what you already own with a few well-chosen new versatile pieces.

7 Mom-friendly Fall Trends You'll Love

Here are this fall's top fashion trends to easily mix in with your current wardrobe and that you’ll actually love wearing, without sacrificing comfort or your sanity.

Classic Earrings

Jewelry is one the easiest and fastest ways to elevate your look, whether you’re just wearing jeans and a T-shirt or something more appropriate for the office. This season, classic gold stud earrings are leading the pack in style. This accessory is timeless and polished, perfect for PTA meetings or a Zoom call at work.

Layered Chains

Another jewelry trend that’s mom-friendly is layered necklaces. Wondering how to layer necklaces like some of the most fashionable new generation celebrities? Start with one or two chains ideally with different types of links that you may already own, then add one or more new ones with a subtle charm detail to create a pulled-together look without trying too hard.

Relaxed Wide-Leg Pants

Skinny jeans, especially for moms, may be taking a back seat this fall. Wide-leg jeans flatter most figure types, making them perfect for dressing up or down. In fact, this season's trendiest women's pants are not just available as jeans, you can buy them in-store and online at both major department stores and boutiques, in gorgeous, flowing, soft fabrics comfortable enough for school pickup yet sharp enough for a day at the office. Pair them with sneakers, ankle boots or comfy flats for easy versatility.

Cozy Knit Tops in Earth Tones

Pastels as well as warm browns, muted greens, and soft rusts are everywhere this fall. Instead of buying all new sweaters, pull out those old favorites and add one or two updated knit pullover sweaters in your favorite trending color. There are so many ways to wear sweaters, tucked in or out. They're cozy, forgiving, and perfect for layering with tee tops, collared shirts and blouses, too.

Structured Tote Bags

Moms need bags that can do it all, that keep you organized, not to mention provide space to spare for carrying kids' stuff. Stylish, structured practical totes are trending this season and are roomy enough to stash snacks, files, a tablet and smartphone, perhaps even your new iPhone 17. If you already have a neutral leather tote, this is a great opportunity to bring it out of your closet and back into rotation or invest in a good quality leather, beautiful, roomy new shopper bag that will last for years.

Flats with a Twist

Flats are another practical must-have example of trendy accessories for busy moms. This fall, women's footwear is making a major comeback with ballet flats -- featuring details like square toes and Mary Jane ankle straps -- in nearly every texture, metallic finishes, and embroidered details. Ankle boots with low heels are again popular with moms this season. Another favorite timeless mom footwear many of us moms opt to wear are sneakers which are now available in a wide range of styles beyond just walking or running shoes. I just love these Square Lace-up Satin Sneakers which are so pretty, yet practical. Any of these shoe options are all comfy enough for running errands yet polished enough for office wear, whether you're wearing pants, a dress, or suit set.

Scarves Add a Touch of Style

Scarves are an old favorite, with bold, conversation starter patterns trending right now. Think art-inspired scarves as well as classic oversized plaids or contemporary abstract prints in silk and a variety of other fabrics and textures. Tie one around your neck, head, or waist, or simply toss a scarf over your daytime or office basics and suddenly you’ve got a fresh, fashion-forward outfit with almost zero effort. There are so many creative ways to use scarves to elevate your look: tie a scarf nine ways around your neck or get creative and turn a colorful scarf into a hair accessory, swap out a belt and wrap a scarf around your waist or even tie a scarf on your bag as a charm. 

You Deserve to Look and Feel Good This Fall

Being a mom means your schedule is packed, but that doesn’t mean your wardrobe has to feel stuck in a rut. With just a few new trendy pieces and some rediscovered gems from your own closet, you can step into fall looking stylish yet practical. Remember: fashion should be fun, not stressful. And it doesn't need to be expensive. So embrace what works for you and your budget, to mix in a little of what’s trending, and enjoy the confidence you'll feel looking so put together without trying too hard. 

The Short Game Family Movie Review

Movies

Movie Review: The Short Game

A Heartwarming Faith-Based Story About Family, Sacrifice, and What Really Matters

Looking for a wholesome movie the whole family to see together? Every once in a while, a movie comes along that does more than just entertain -- it touches your heart, a reminder to parents and kids about life’s most important lessons. The Short Game (2024) is that film. 

MBE partnered with Momentum Influencers for this review

Opening in Theaters August 29, 2025

Rooted in faith and family values, the storyline for The Short Game movie follows Jeremy, a high school golfer who is a contender for the Texas State Golf Championship. As the film opens he seems destined for greatness on the golf course, but as the story unfolds, we discover this motion picture isn’t really about golf at all. It's about something much larger: the importance of patience, sacrifice, and kindness and how sometimes the biggest victories aren’t measured by sports trophies.

Check out The Short Game's 

Movie Trailer

From the very beginning, viewers are drawn into Jeremy’s world. He is laser-focused on winning the state tournament, practicing endlessly and pushing himself to be the best. His constant companion is Ethan, his younger brother who is autistic. Their relationship starts out rather distant with Jeremy so consumed by the game that he struggles to pay attention to his brother and to connect with Ethan’s needs and unique way of experiencing the world.

But slowly, through small and tender moments, we see a transformation. Jeremy begins to notice his brother’s quiet wisdom, his resilience, and the joy he brings in unexpected ways. Ethan, in turn, shows Jeremy the true meaning of patience and compassion. The dynamic between these two brothers becomes the emotional heartbeat of the movie.

By the time the film builds to its climactic final tournament, Jeremy is faced with a life-changing decision. Will he chase the championship title he has dreamed about for years, or will he make the ultimate sacrifice for Ethan—choosing family over fame? The way he responds is both inspiring and humbling. His choice demonstrates a character of true integrity, showing audiences, especially young people, that doing the right thing is always more important than personal glory.

With beautiful cinematography, authentic performances, and a script that feels both heartfelt and grounded, The Short Game resonates deeply with families. Parents, teens, and even younger children will walk away reflecting on what it really means to love unconditionally. For families raising kids with special needs, the film is especially powerful, offering a moving portrait of inclusion, of sibling relationships and the unique bonds that grow when kindness leads the way.

Ultimately, The Short Game isn’t much about golf—it’s mostly about life. It’s about faith, family, and the sacrifices we’re willing to make for the people we love. And it’s about recognizing that true victory is not found in medals or championships, but in putting others first.

If you’re looking for a movie that uplifts, inspires, and sparks meaningful conversations at the dinner table, The Short Game is a must-see. This is a film that parents will want to watch with their kids, and grandparents will be glad to share with the whole family. A beautiful reminder that at the end of the day, love always wins.

More About the Movie

To learn more about The Short Game, visit the official movie website as well as follow the film on social media @theshortgame on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Affordable Term Life Insurance for Dads, Moms

Family Money

by Janis Brett Elspas, Editor

Mommy Blog Expert

MBE parternered with Responsival for this post

Term Life Insurance Important, Accessible to Families

As parents, we often spend so much time focused on just getting through each day, worrying about our family -- feeding the kids healthy meals, making sure they get to school and activities on time, taking care of their health and more, as well as balancing the family budget. But there’s another layer to family finance that often gets overlooked: term life insurance. 

An Important Discussion for Parents

Talking about life insurance may not be the most fun topic to chat about with your mom or dad friends group online or while waiting in the carpool lane at after school pickup. But when you have children depending on you, this is one of the most important ways you can protect your family. Term life insurance ensures that in the event that the unthinkable happens, your kids will be financially cared for --from keeping the roof over their heads to covering everyday expenses, college, and beyond. 

Here’s the part few parents realize: term life insurance cost is often much more affordable than you’d expect. On average for this type of insurance, an independent study shows that monthly premiums cost around $26, which is less per month than a couple of takeout dinners or a streaming subscription. 

Surprisingly Affordable for Families 

According to a recent analysis, it will cost approximately $300,000 to raise a child today from newborn to adulthood. When you consider how expensive raising kids already is (hello baby equipment, braces, sports fees, summer camps, and college savings accounts!), this small monthly cost to cover term life insurance can actually fit seamlessly into your overall household budget. 

Think of it as one more expense line item in your parenting toolkit -- just like groceries, gas, or extracurriculars -- but one that can provide peace of mind for the well-being of your kids. If you’re wondering where to find the extra dollars to cover the nominal cost of your term life insurance policy, you don’t need to stress. Making small but intentional adjustments in family lifestyle spending can easily provide you with the  savings needed to pay for this type of life insurance. 

5 Simple Ways to Free Up Money for Monthly Premiums 

Here are five realistic ideas parents everywhere can use: 

• Skip just one latte a week on your way to work. That’s about four fewer lattes a month -- easily enough to cover affordable policies. 
• Pack lunch instead of buying out once a week. Brown-bagging lunch savings can add up to $20–$40 monthly. 
• Cut back on unused subscriptions. Cancel that forgotten app, magazine, or duplicate streaming service and redirect those funds. 
• Opt for one at-home family movie night instead of going to the theater. Just one swap could cover nearly a month’s premium. 
• Plan meals smarter by using leftovers before food spoils. Reducing food waste by $10–$15 a week means you’re already ahead on covering the cost. 

Parenting, Peace of Mind, and Family Finance 

At its core, term term life insurance cost isn’t just about money—it’s about love, responsibility, and protecting what matters most. Parenting is already one of the biggest and most rewarding jobs in the world. Knowing your children will be taken care of financially, no matter what, is one of the greatest gifts you can give them. So, while getting term life insurance may feel like “one more thing” to think about and one more expense decision to make, the truth is that it’s a surprisingly small financial step that brings enormous peace of mind. 

With a little planning and a few lifestyle spending adjustments, you can easily fit term life insurance into your family budget. And in today’s world of ever-rising costs of raising kids, that’s one investment in your family’s future that’s well worth it. 

Free Character Drawing Camp for Kids

Creativity

Character Design Virtual Workshop July 28 - August 18

I love sharing freebies with MBE's national family lifestyle audience. But when it comes to sharing free, worthwhile creative art activities like Creativity Camp that will engage your kids this summer, I can't wait to tell you all about it. So, let's get started!

MBE participates in the Amazon Affiliates program, post contains affiliate links

WHAT

Creativity Camp, hosted in partnership with Wacom and Best Buy, is an annual complimentary online workshop series. The program is designed for both kids, young creators and beginner artists who enjoy sketching and drawing and would like to learn how to create (or up their skill set game) to draw original characters for comics, illustrated stories, video games, anime, and more. Wacom will be giving away the company's drawing tablets during each class (giveaways are open to attendees who are US residents only).  

4 Workshop Sessions Include

• Introduction to Character Design
• Shape Language, Intro to Model Sheets
• Expressive Faces, Poses Design
• Final Details, Professional Feedback

WHO

Led by seasoned illustrator and educator Lafe Smith, Director of Arts in Graphic and Web Design at Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD), this weekly Zoom series to be help Mondays, July 28–Aug 18 requires nothing more than a pencil and paper to join in the fun and learning. In each session, Smith will provide participants with insider tips, tricks, and step-by-step directions. Throughout the program Wacom tablets -- the same ones used by top artists at animation movie studios like Disney and Marvel (the later, a subsidiary of Disney) -- will be featured in live demos, and all sessions include bonus resources, materials, and replays. Another perk of participating is getting complimentary feedback from a professional illustrator.

WHEN 

Creativity Camp 2025 is an online series to be held each Monday, July 28 through Monday, August 18, 2025 from 3 to 4:30 pm PDT.

HOW 

To participate in this virtual month-long workshop, register Free to attend Creativity Camp. Sign up now and join this fun, skills-building program to learn how to draw digitally. Don't worry if you miss the start of camp or any of the individual sessions, once you're registered you'll be able to catch up and access the recordings of each class.

 

Wacom Drawing Tablets for All Skill Levels

Pictured above, just a few of the brand's product line

• Wacom Intuos Drawing Tablet for beginners
• Wacom One Drawing Tablet for entry-level pros
• Wacom Movink OLED Drawing Tablet for professionals

ABOUT

Creativity Camp is a collaboration of Wacom and Best Buy. Headquartered in Japan, Wacom makes graphics tablets, interactive pens and stylus products for a global audience of creative skill levels from hobbyist to professional. The brand's devices are used professionally to draw and sketch in the fields of digital illustration, graphic design, photo editing, film and animation. Best Buy is known primarily as a consumer electronics retailer selling computers, tech accessories, cell phones, TVs, major household appliances and more.