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Life Creative: Inspiration for Today's Renaissance Mom Paperback – September 27, 2016

by Wendy Speake (Author), Kelli Stuart (Author)
4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars 96 ratings
See all formats and editions
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A celebration of motherhood, creativity, and the faith that binds them

In our Pinterest age of handcrafted children's parties, artistic Instagram photos, tutorials for renovating old furniture into new treasures, and blogs filled with poetry, prose, and other creative expression, it is clear that a brand-new generation of creative women is rising up. It is a renaissance born not in Italian cathedrals or Harlem jazz clubs but in kitchens and nurseries and living rooms around the world. But when Christian women become mothers, they often feel expected to lay down their creative pursuits in order to properly parent.

Wendy Speake and Kelli Stuart know that struggle. While they acknowledge that some seasons of mothering require setting artistic pursuits aside, they also argue that these seasons don't have to last until empty nest time. Instead, mothers with creative gifts are called to actively use them in order to bless their families, their communities, and everyone they encounter.

Inspiring and encouraging, Life Creative celebrates the ways mothers can live their art in the midst of their mothering. They tell the stories of women such as author and speaker Angie Smith, recording artist Ellie Holcomb, and jewelry designer Lisa Leonard who do just that. By following God's leading to embrace His gifts, renaissance moms can model the joy of obedience for their families.

Previous page
  1. Print length
    208 pages
  2. Language
    English
  3. Publisher
    Kregel Publications
  4. Publication date
    September 27, 2016
  5. Dimensions
    5.5 x 0.41 x 8.5 inches
  6. ISBN-10
    0825444101
  7. ISBN-13
    978-0825444104
  8. See all details
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Editorial Reviews

Review

"Our creative lives are a dance--fluid and ever changing--rather than one stationary, perfect balance of family and faith. For years I thought creativity was limited to those onstage or at an easel, but a new day has dawned. Life Creative has painted an all-inclusive picture, inviting everyone to embrace their part in this present Renaissance." -- Sarah Bragg, podcaster at SurvivingSarah.com Published On: 2016-07-21

"Wendy and Kelli have told a beautiful and life-giving story, by telling the stories of many women--just like us--desiring to live the life creative and steward what they've been given. This book will make you aggressively grateful for the generation of women you've been born into, and it will read like a breath of fresh air, a reminder to run in the creative giftings you've been given." -- Jess Connolly, author and speaker Published On: 2016-07-18

"Kelli and Wendy understand that, yes, being a mom is about raising your children. But it's also about fully being the woman God created you to be and expressing His love like only you can. Their words will support, encourage, and cheer you on in the art and adventure of mothering." -- Holley Gerth, Wall Street Journal best-selling author of You're Already Amazing Published On: 2016-07-18

"Mothers carry deep within them an innate desire to create beauty around them--whether it’s with shape or color, words or song. In Life Creative, Wendy and Kelli come alongside the artistic soul inside us all with their wisdom and insight on how to care for our families while also caring for the artist within . . . An absolute must-read for creative moms." -- Denise J. Hughes, author of Word Writers Published On: 2016-07-18

"This is a message that wondering, hungering, hurting, hoping hearts need!" -- Becky Keife, blogger, speaker, and mom, BeckyKeife.com Published On: 2016-07-18

"I never expected this life. When I stepped out of the workplace to minister to my boys at home, I didn't know God would also call me to minister to mothers of boys all over the world. For years, I've struggled through these joint callings, simultaneously sure and unsure of myself in both. But I am sure of God, the Master Creative, who doesn't make mistakes as He asks us to use our gifts for His glory. Is there any way to be a mom and be obedient to my creative calling? I believe there is, and I look to moms like Kelli and Wendy to inspire me as I figure it out. If you're a mom struggling through multiple callings, read this book." -- Brooke McGlothlin, cocreator of The MOB Society Published On: 2016-07-18

"The very first thing we learn about God in His word is that He 'created the heavens and the earth' (Gen. 1:1). We have a magnificently creative God who chose to make the pinnacle of His creation, humankind, in His image. Surely part of our image-bearing likeness to God is our ability to imagine and to create. Yet our creativity is sometimes lost in the busyness of life and mothering. In Life Creative, Wendy and Kelli offer fresh words of encouragement for moms to find natural, creative outlets right where they are--whether it is in a kitchen, on a canvas, through a lens, on a keyboard, or through some other medium. Wendy and Kelli's collection of stories about real-life creative moms is particularly inspiring and has led me to thoughtfully consider how I can best reflect the image of God through my own creative interests, as well as how I can model for my children the creative life that I desire for them to pursue as they mature." -- Angie Mosteller, author of Christmas Published On: 2016-07-18

"In a culture laden with 'mommy guilt,' Life Creative is a must-read for every mother who wants to hone her God-given creative gifts while encouraging her children to do the same. After feeling torn between mothering my three small children and pursuing my passion for writing during the first six years of motherhood, I finally came to peace with God giving me desires and gifts to bring Him glory. Motherhood and the creative life need not be at odds with each other! Wendy and Kelli's book will help readers realize this from the get-go. New and seasoned mothers alike need to read this book." -- Erin Odom, creator of thehumbledhomemaker.com Published On: 2016-07-18

"I am breathless. These are the things I believe but didn't have words to articulate . . . things that my soul knows are truth. I'm going back to read it all again, slowly." -- Mindy Rogers, teacher, writer, mom Published On: 2016-07-18

"Never has there been a time like this for creative and artistic women to embrace the high calling of motherhood and the unique giftings God has given to each of us. There is indeed a movement--a Renaissance--of the creative woman, the creative mom. I’m grateful that Wendy and Kelli have chosen to encourage this generation of women, right now, to embrace their God-given creativity and steward it to the glory of God. This book is right on time." -- Ruth Simons, artist and writer, GraceLaced.com Published On: 2016-07-18

"As a mom of two wild boys and a new baby girl, I am thankful for authentic moms like Wendy and Kelli who welcome women into this creative world in a manner that breaks down all barriers of comparison and the idea of measuring up." -- Amber Tysl, photographer and blogger Published On: 2016-07-18

"As the mom of three kids, I need the wisdom of other moms, but most of all I need their companionship and gentle nod of understanding. Wendy and Kelli have offered that in the pages of this book in the most precious of ways: They've taken our hands, looked us in the eyes, and given us a gentle nod to help us move forward. Life Creative lets me be myself and find my best mothering there. Kudos, ladies. This book is a big exhale, a dear friend, and a powerful teacher." -- Lisa Whittle, speaker, author of {w}hole and I Want God Published On: 2016-07-18

"Life Creative extends a hand across the lonely miles of motherhood to every woman who feels like she’s lost herself in a sea of diapers and dishes. It breathes beauty and life and purpose into the everyday servanthood of mothering and reminds us that it's up to us to seize those very ordinary moments and turn them into something beautiful. I have never read anything like this, and as both a mother and an artist, I endorse it fully. The world needs Life Creative." -- Emily T. Wierenga, author of five books including memoir Atlas Girl Published On: 2016-07-18

"Few things are as disorienting as the feeling that you have lost yourself in the midst of your own life. When demands of performing as a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, chef, medical aid, teacher, disciplinarian, theologian, artist, and more all pile up in even one day, it can seem nearly impossible to extract a true self from the many roles demanding your attention. A true Renaissance woman isn't torn in a million directions but is instead able to recognize the creative ways that God works in and through the various channels of her life. In motherhood and in ministry, Wendy and Kelli are women who have felt the tension and found the beauty of God's creativity through the changing seasons. Life Creative isn't simply an inspiration to embrace the seasons but a manual to continuously celebrate the creativity of God at work in you." -- Logan Wolfram, speaker & author of Curious Faith Published On: 2016-07-18

About the Author

Wendy Speake is an actress who appeared on shows such as JAG, Star Trek Voyager, and Roswell where she discovered a longing to tell stories that edify women. Today she ministers to women through storytelling and biblical life applications. Her first book Triggers was released in 2015

Kelli Stuart is the coauthor of Dare 2B Wise and has written for several brands including Disney, American Girl, and Short Fiction Break. She has served as editor-in-chief for the St. Louis Bloggers Guild and as a board member for the St. Louis Women in Media. In addition to her writing, Kelli has spent twenty years studying Ukranian culture. Kelli lives in Florida and blogs at KelliStuart.com.

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Kregel Publications (September 27, 2016)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 208 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0825444101
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0825444104
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 9.6 ounces
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.5 x 0.41 x 8.5 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars 96 ratings

About the authors

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  1. Wendy Speake

    Wendy Speake

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    As a trained actress and heartfelt Bible teacher, Wendy Speake ministers to women’s hearts through storytelling and life application.

    Wendy is the author of The 40-Day Sugar Fast and The 40-Day Social Media Fast, published by Baker Publishing House. She hosts an online community Sugar Fast every January. Find out more at 40daysugarfast.com

    In her popular parenting book "Triggers: Exchanging Parents' Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses," Wendy and co-author Amber Lia, help parents who struggle with angry, reactionary parenting, by pointing them toward biblical principles. Their Triggers Study Guide takes moms and dads even deeper in God's Word, where true transformation can be found. Their follow-up book, Parenting Scripts, takes the lessons from Biblical principles to practical application, as they help parents create actual scripts to speak to their children in the most ordinary and exasperating moments of family life.

    Wendy is also the co-author of "Life Creative: Inspiration for Today's Renaissance Mom," with Kelli Stuart. Life Creative is a missive of encouragement to creative moms, telling the stories of 30 women who are living inspired and inspiring lives in the midst of motherhood.

    Connect with her online at wendyspeake.com where she blogs about faith and family, motherhood and marriage. Or follow along on Instagram @wendy_speake

    See more on the author's page
  2. Kelli Stuart

    Kelli Stuart

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    Full content visible, double tap to read brief content.

    Kelli Stuart is a writer and a storyteller at heart. A graduate of Baylor University with a degree in English Professional Writing, and a minor in the Russian language, Kelli has honed her skills in the written word through editing, ghostwriting, blogging, and traveling the world.

    Kelli is the author of the Carol-award winning novel, Like a River From Its Course, based on true stories from Ukrainian World War II survivors. Her second novel, A Silver Willow by the Shore, was the NIEA winner for literary fiction and received the IPPY silver award for literary fiction in 2020.

    Kelli's third book, The Fabulous Freaks of Monsieur Beaumont released in August, 2021. She will release her fourth novel, The Master Craftsman in April, 2022 with Revell books. In addition, Kelli is part of a collection of short stories in the Christmas release, It's a Wonderful Christmas: Classics Reimagined.

    Kelli has co-authored the non-fiction books Dare 2B Wise with Joe White, and Life Creative: Inspiration for Today's Renaissance Mom with Wendy Speake. Kelli lives in Tampa, Florida with her husband and five children.

    See more on the author's page
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Customer reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
4.6 out of 5
96 global ratings
A God-glorifying whole-life affirming boost for all moms to live creatively!
5 Stars
A God-glorifying whole-life affirming boost for all moms to live creatively!
Amen & Amen to this encouragement for moms! I wish it was given to me in the hospital along with my newborn!Life Creative spoke to parts of me I'd forgotten existed. I felt encouraged by the gentle nudges to return to creative living, and angry I had listened to self-doubt and outside criticism for so long.So many sections of Life Creative inspired me to look at life and motherhood with freshly-opened eyes. As Kelli and Wendy claim, I don't have to be a "ghost of the woman God created me to be." I didn't realize fully how much I had neglected (and yet subconsciously nurtured) my creative side as a mom until I started reading this book.I truly believe there is a need for moms to celebrate and continue their creative life. Life Creative is a treasure of a book every mom should read to gain perspective on her worth and purpose as God-designed creative beings. The personal stories of other moms who found ways to refresh their creative spirits and follow God's leading in the midst of motherhood have challenged, convicted, and inspired me to do better!No matter what point you're at in motherhood, whether newborn or empty-nester, Life Creative will fill your heart with Scriptures, real-mom stories, and encouragement to go forth into the dawn of your own Renaissance.*I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
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Top reviews from the United States

J.M. Ukes
5.0 out of 5 stars Blessed By This Amazing Book
Reviewed in the United States on September 19, 2016
Verified Purchase
I am so glad to have had the opportunity to read Life Creative. What an encouraging and well-written book for moms or anyone who is trying to balance their creativity with family life.
As a creative woman and also a mother, I thought that I had to put my creative pursuits aside while raising my children. I believed that in order to focus on my children, I did not have time to be creative and make art, too. But as I read Life Creative, I learned that creativity and motherhood go hand in hand. God made me to be creative, and motherhood is an extension of His creativity. I also learned that my creativity is meant to be shared, a gift to bless others, and a gift to bless my family as I may earn an income from selling my art.
I am so thankful for Life Creative, it's a book everyone needs to read, especially women, regardless of the stage of motherhood. Life Creative is a wonderful book and I am honored to recommend it highly.
I would like to share a quote from a segment of a question and answer interview with author Kelli Stuart:

Q: "WHAT ENCOURAGEMENT CAN YOU OFFER TO THE MOM IN WHAT YOU DESCRIBE AS “THE DARK AGES OF MOTHERHOOD,” OR FOR WHOM THE ART AND CREATIVITY SEEMS TO HAVE BEEN LOST?"

KELLI: "Hold on, sweet mom. It really is true that the days are long but the years are short. The children need so much of you in the early years, but there are days coming when you’ll find yourself with more time in your days, and the inspiration will be there waiting for you. In the meantime, look for ways you can use your artistic gifts right there where you are, inside the walls of your home, with your children, your most beautiful creations."
Life Creative is definitely a book I will read again and again.
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Vicky Lashenko
5.0 out of 5 stars I'm getting back to music because of this book!
Reviewed in the United States on October 24, 2016
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What an encouraging book this was! As a mother of 2 boys - I truly felt my creativity whither because I felt like now that I'm a mother - I have to say no to myself in order to make time for my little family. That was such a big mistake - I wish this book was available when I first became a mother because Wendy and Keli give me the permission (not that I need it - but you know) to go back to my creative, God given talents and create with my boys! Before I became a mother I played the piano and composed music - not many know this about me because It's been YEARS since I've done anything like that. This book encouraged and inspired me to go back and start doing that again because it will not only bring me peace, but it will connect my kids and I and most importantly - bring God the glory! This is a must read - get your copy today! <3
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cassandra l andersen
4.0 out of 5 stars Annoying writing style, but good message
Reviewed in the United States on April 15, 2018
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I appreciate this book. The writing style in it is really hard for me to read....it’s very femme in a gushy, smarmy way that is really annoying to me. Not all Christian women (especially those who consider themselves ‘creative’) want to wade through the abject estrogen flag waving style that the authors ascribe to. But the book has some really good things to say that, if you can get past the writing style, are very encouraging.
2 people found this helpful
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MCH
5.0 out of 5 stars Encouraging and Refreshing!
Reviewed in the United States on September 17, 2016
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This book has been so life giving for me. I was drowning in the "Dark Ages" of motherhood, when caring for little ones is all consuming. I felt I had lost myself, my creative dreams, and my confidence in my talents. Life Creative has given me hope that the "Renaissance" is coming, that God made me creative for a purpose and that he will bring my giftings and creative desires to fruition in time. Not only is Life Creative inspirational, it is also honest and practical. Reading it felt like having Wendy & Kelly as Titus 2 mentors right in my living room. I feel so refreshed and ready to dig deeper into what God has for me as mother and a creative.
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Katherine S.
5.0 out of 5 stars we make Him look good. It is in how we live that we ...
Reviewed in the United States on January 12, 2018
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“When we live out our faith consistently, no matter what we do or where we go, we make Him look good. It is in how we live that we have the greatest power to make His Gospel attractive, in every way. Therefore, since we are His created beings, fashioned in His creative image, all forms of creativity have the potential to point to Him.” // God knew exactly what He was doing when He created you creative. He designed you intentionally artistic, and then set you free for His good purposes 🙌🏻🎨 This was a refreshing read for a mom of 4 young kids who is passionate about creativity and art!
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SAHMofBoyz
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent and encouraging book
Reviewed in the United States on May 28, 2017
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This book was encouraging to me. Many times I feel lost in my daily grind of staying home with my kids. This book reminded me of the things I love and helped me appreciate the beauty in the things others love too. She does a great job or reminding/teaching that worship is not just singing songs at church, but living our lives out the way God intended by bringing glory to his name in all that we do.
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W Andrus-Ross
4.0 out of 5 stars Inspirational and encouraging
Reviewed in the United States on October 27, 2016
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Life Creative is inspirational and full of encouragement, most especially for moms of young children. If you are a mom who feels like your creative juices are lying dormant right now, take the time to check out this book.
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Kris D
5.0 out of 5 stars Encouragement for creative moms...
Reviewed in the United States on September 13, 2016
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I can honestly say that my view of creativity has been enlarged. Being creative doesn't just mean you can paint or draw. There are so many ways to be creative and Wendy and Kelli did a wonderful job explaining ways we are being creative and not realizing it. They are also great encouragers. With the world at our fingertips we can expand our creativity in ways we never imagined.
2 people found this helpful
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