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Monthly Archives: September 2014

q & a

September 24, 2014 Filed in q&a,random

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hi.

photo 5

in the past i have asked YOU if you had questions for me.
and it has been fun.

🙂

maybe it still is… we shall see.

so let’s hear it.
ask me anything you want.
i have nothing to hide… i am an open book.
it can be personal or not-so-personal.
questions with a long answer or ones that will be easy and quick.

something you have been wondering?
something you wished i would talk more about?
something i said i would answer but probably forgot to answer?

now don’t make this awkward…..

i don’t want to hear crickets when i hit publish.

(if i could put a wide-eyed emoji face here i would…)

add a comment

Michele Wright - My favorite is washi tape— Just love all the differant patterns.

Tricia - I love Talby’s name and I’ve always been curious about it. Is it a nickname? Is it a family name? I had never heard it before reading your blog and I just wondered how you decided on it. 🙂

Lindsey - Ummmm…..looks like these comments AREN’T awaiting administrator approval, as I had assumed. Yes Meg, you are very brave. Can you pull down the last one before it opens the Pandora’s box? Yikes! Sorry!!!!:(

Karina - How are you going to find the time to read and answer all these questions?? OK, that was NOT my real question…I am obsessed with convincing my husband we need a new kitchen and need more details about yours. I KNOW you posted about the reno already, but there is a photo of your husband eating breakfast at the new island and it is too small to Pin It…I want to show my husband what your kitchen looks like in detail and give him some idea of what it cost. So can you share about your kitchen again, please??? 🙂

Jen - You look wonderful. Your new lifestyle is paying off with all of your healthy eating and working out. I loved your post about getting away! Thanks for the nudge. 🙂 Enjoy fall.

Routh - You look absolutely wonderful and I wonder how you would describe your health and weight loss this year? What was the turning point?

Robin Allen - My question is (junker to junker) and ( lover of all things colorful and vintage )..where do you thrift shop and antique shop?? We too live in Kansas and my friends and daughter and I are always up for road trips to try new stores…do tell the name of the store and the towns they are located in…We can’t wait to go…you always find the coolest stuff!!

Kassondra - do you someday plan on moving and living back at the craft house?

Carrie - My first question is related to home & contentment. When you moved out of the AMAZING craft house & moved into the rental – was there a difficult period of adjustment or contentment issues? We currently have a large, beatiful home but it’s alot of money & energy to maintain. As I get older (40 next year), I’m craving more time & freedom and want to downsize, but I’m so worried that I will end up not being content with “less” & will end up regretting the decision. My second question(s) are all related to the new house. How are you feeling about the new house? I think all your previous homes have older, fixer uppers. Your current home is much more newer/modern than all your previous homes. Was that a conscious decision? Were there other factors that weighed more heavily than design or asthetics? How come you didn’t share your home search with us? (That would have been so fun to follow along window shopping homes with you!!)

Meredith Feisel - Meg! 2 questions. I liked the question of how you got into photography. I am a photographer myself (husband is professional) and that would be a fun thing to find out. 🙂 Also I would love if someday you could make an info packet or something creative for us to know how to run our own craft weekends in our areas, like a breakdown. I’ve been wanting to go for 4 years as well. I thought about trying to have a girls night at my house but not sure where to start.

Meredith 🙂

P.S. Can NOT wait for the answers post. Fun idea!

jodie - hey meg! how are you going to pick which questions to answer?!!
heheheh

Janel - Meg~ I’m wondering if you find it harder to make friends as you get older? (Probably not since I imagine everyone would love to be your friend!!) We had 4 of our close friend couples divorce over the last couple years and thru that I’ve lost many close relationships. I find myself in search of some more good friendships but at 45 I’m having a hard time figuring out how to cultivate new friendships. Any advice for meeting new people, starting to build friendships, and stepping out of my comfort zone in finding friends?

Traci - What has been your hardest moments as a mom to a teen daughter? I have 2 and WOW is it HARD!!!

Christina - Where do you store all of your photos? I have online storage, but still have a hard time removing them from my computer. My computer is bogged down because of it. Help!!

Sarah W. in Oregon - Happy Birthday, Meg! I just remembered we were born on the very same day and popped in to say hello. I wish you piles of blessings in our last year of thirty-something-ness.

Ann Marie - Hi Meg! I’m curious… Did you take classes for photography or was it just something you just sort of picked up? I think I’ve read it on your blog before (old blog) but I’d love to hear how you got into photography. I love all of your work!

April R - thanks for being a light.
you inspire good – so I’m wondering who/where do you go to be inspired each week?
Also, how’d you learn the tech side of blogging?

Katherine - I love your Q&As! do you have any photography tips or tricks?

Katie - I’ve been reading for 2-3 years now and have a few questions (easy and hard!):
What kind of music do you like? And who gets to pick the music when you’re driving with kids?
How’s Lauren? (I know this has already been asked a lot)
Do you or anyone in the family miss the farmhouse? I think I would have a really hard time moving away from there, but maybe just because I’ve always wanted to live in the country.

Andria - Can you recommend a fairly decently price pair of cross trainers? I’m going to start a fitness regime – treadmill & outdoor walking, as I become more fit I will invest in better footwear, but as a total newbie, I don’t want to shell out $200 right away. Thanks meg!

Shari - How are the chickens? I really enjoyed seeing the up close and personal pics of them. Love your blog!

Erin - Do you ever worry about putting your life online for the world to see? My husband is in law enforcement and I often worry about posting info about my babies, house and life on my blog for security reasons!

Suzy - How much time do you spend online each day? You seem to do SO MUCH all day long but yet you have to spend time on the blog, editing photos, searching internet for pics to post, etc.

Laura Pryor - Hi Meg! I spent last weekend at Craft House and I just have to say that I have never seen a more beautiful, creative and incredibly inspiring home. I didn’t want to leave and I already can’t wait to go back! I had such a great time with my crafty friends. Thank you so much for having our group! I purchased some prints, and am currently scouring the internet for just the right ball fringe and pom poms. I’m digging out all of my repurpose projects and favorite fabrics and collection of vintage embroidery hoops. We like seriously need to be friends!!! HA!!! Thank you again! I couldn’t have possibly enjoyed myself more!
Thank you!
Laura

regina - hi, this is pretty cool that you are doing this…so
-What does Craig do for a living?
-It seems like you have a wonderful relationship with your children…how do you it? you seem like the very cool mom.
-How did you come up with Talbys name?

Brantlee - I love it when bloggers do a “day in the life” post. Would you consider doing one?

Kathy - You are so adorable! I love how natural and genuine you are in your posts. Also, I just spent 18 months in KS. serving a mission for our church (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) and I had no idea you were so close! I really want to have a craft retreat at your place someday (bucket list). Oh yeah, question: Who are the adorable black babies you are holding in the picture above? Did I miss the story? XO ~K.

Linda - M, I’ve been reading since Annie was little.I’m going to ask some very personal questions, but as an interested reader and parent, not a combatant.
You’ve been very open about getting married after becoming pregnant with Lauren. Does she ever get upset about strangers knowing that? Do any of the kids get “squicked” out about this information coming out? How do you handle the sex talks with them (especially if you promote abstinance)?

Angela - I thought of a second question. 🙂 What size jar do you recommend to use when you make the pineapple vodka? Hope you enjoyed you anniversary trip!

Jenni - Of course I want to ask you how you do it all?! Five kids, a cool independent business, an adorable house, an exercise regime, and activities, activities for the kids. Plus you always look great. Personally I feel frazzled 75% of the day. I have three kids and am a high school teacher. My kids are young, though. Are you feeling like life is a lot easier with older kids or no? Thanks

Alisa - Is your business profitable? Did you work before you started Craft Weekend & the Craft House?

Laura - Can you provide a link for that fabulous tee shirt “Everything Will Be Amazing”?

Corinne - Does your wash ever get done? I have 4 kids and my doesn’t get close to it. How do you handle it with 2 homes to look after? I also wanted to add a comment. I first found your blog after apple picking one fall when I was looking for apple recipes. I made your delicious apple bars and remember you had a cute picture of your girls on the swings or trampoline and I was hooked. I love your cheerful pics and all the recipes and art projects. I have used many of them over the years.

Susan - Hey Meg, Will you do more vlogs? Really love those!

Deb - How many over 50 year olds read you, and if they do, would you know it?

Jessica - Why do you still have the mPix ad on your website that always say that you can win free 4x6s but the contest ended like forever ago?

Karen Groves - Have you ever been to Coloma, MI? That is the little town where my sister lives. A while back you posted pictures of a vacation you took to Michigan, and it looked so much like my sister’s town. Sometimes when I’m visiting her I think, “I wonder if Meg Duerksen was here.”

Laura h - Dear Meg,
I am afraid of color in my house.
Are you ever afraid of color?

Melissa - All the amazing color in your home amazes me, esp. the vibrant green hutch and your dresser you did with milk paint! What does hubby really think about the color?! Does it scare him a little when you come up with these ideas or is he just amazing and completely on board?

Nancy - The question I asked very kindly yesterday is still “awaiting moderation”. Since this won’t make it out of “moderation” either and you will certainly see it, I would like to say that I believe only posting “positive” comments is very telling and shows your true colors. You most definitely aren’t willing to answer ANYTHING. You aren’t an “open book” and your lack of response only proves that this has become a place where Meg gets paid big money for getting stroked all day every day. I asked a simple question. It’s obvious you make money from the blog-the gajillion ads I have to click through just to see a post make that clear. Why not just own it and say so?

beth larson - Meg! LOve your LoNg haiR! You’re so pretty…here’s my question: have you and Craig ever struggled (as a couple?) He seems like an awfully awesome guy and of course we all love you- but most of us have some bumps in our road as a married couple.

Jackie - My question is about those two adorable babies in the pictures for this post. What is their story?

Meg - Do you miss the photography biz? I love looking at all your pix of craft weekends and your family, but I wonder if you ever want to return to capturing other peoples families (and newborns, gosh, the newborns!)

Jessica Jackson - Hi Meg!

I’m a long time reader and an amateur photographer and I was wondering if you’d consider doing a little photography tutorial post. I love all your candid action shots with your kids (close up of frogs/bugs in hands, vacation shots, etc.) and I’m struggling with a lot of what I assume are basics when I try to capture that stuff with my own family. Your shots are always so vivid and in focus! Do you post process? Do you shoot in JPEG or RAW? Do you find yourself shooting mostly at a particular focal length? Favorite lens? Ahhh! Can you just come mentor me in Virginia?

Also, you’re amazing. I have no clue how you keep your house clean and manage to exercise and run a blog and business and everything else you do. I have 3 kids (youngest is 1 oldest is 5) and I’m lucky to get the dog puke picked up off the floor by the end of the day. Share your secret!

Janelle - Thought of one more very important comment! Do those dog off the couch things REALLY work????

Janelle - One of the things I enjoy about your blog is that even though you post beautiful pictures…you also post “real” pictures. My favorites are when your house is a mess…and I loved the story about when you were being romantic in the bathroom and someone threw up in a laundry basket in the hallway.

Anyways…my question/request would be for you to share some parenting experiences…especially regarding teenagers. What are your thoughts on technology, house rules, homework battles, house jobs, etc. etc. You seem to be a really down to earth nice person and so I’d love to hear how you deal with the everyday stresses…that we all know are just minor stresses…but yet stress us all out! Totally understand if the kids don’t want to see that in your blog though 😉

Mindy - Do you think the use of color in our homes (brights vs. neutrals especially) has any psychology behind it? Okay, fine this is an obvious plea for free therapy… 😛

jenny - how do you control the use of electronics with your kiddos? is there a set routine?

elizabeth - are you going to create another beautiful master bathroom like you had at the craft house? it looked so beautiful and relaxing – exactly the bathroom i would put in my house if i had the budget to do it 🙂

Kelly - Your blog is my favorite too!! Our first 5 kids are close to the same ages of yours so i love following your family since we seem so much alike. Anyhow, do you ever wish you had home-schooled? Our kids are all in public school and busy with sports and activities like yours. But sometimes when I come across other Christian mom blogs or IG where they are home-schooling I feel guilty (but not convicted or called) So I guess I was just wondering if you ever feel that way too?

Wendy C - Hi, Meg – would love to have your recommendations from your trip this summer -we are starting to plan now for two weeks out West. Thanks!

MollyL - Hi Meg,

First off where did you get that cat mug?? I love it. I am so glad it didn’t fall off your hood the other day. 🙂

I have been a reader of your blog for awhile now. I like that you keep it real on your blog.

My question would be how to start my daughters, who are 10 and 12, off on crafts. My youngest is special needs, but she can do crafts, it’s just not sure which ones would be easiest for her to do. We don’t have a large craft space (kitchen table) so don’t want a lot of messy stuff to start out with, till I see how they would do. If you have any favorites that you would recommend to start out with, and crafts they can do together as there is an age difference. We have done small crafts together, but they are more crafty than me, but I want them to have fun.

Thanks!

Molly

Jessica - It seems like Lauren doesn’t get a lot of attention on the blog (perhaps by choice and because she’s out of the house)
You’ve been candid about difficulties you’ve had with Lauren as a teenager. I’m wondering how things are now and if you could let us know why things were so difficult….
I’m dealing with a difficult pre-teen myself.
I know you love Lauren, but her photos are few and far between (so it seems) – sorry if this seems harsh or negative

Ronda - I would also like to know how you got craft weekend started: ideas, sponsers, supplies, etc.? As I would love to come to one of yours at some point and see how it is all run (fingers crossed that I get picked). Also can’t wait to see pictures from Camp Create!

Michelle - Meg – I would love for you to share some family recipes with us. You look fantastic! Do you eat the same meals as your family or do you fix special meals for yourself?? I did the sugar detox with Marta but I am having a hard time getting my family to eat healthier too…. Where do you find recipes that are kid-approved and are quick to prepare? Thanks!

Elizabeth - What is your most proud moment to date? Your biggest regret? What do you see your life looking like in 20 years?

Jennifer Burton - I would love to know about your career background. You mentioned a job you had when Craig was still in college. What other jobs have you done over the years? Do you consider blogging a job or just for fun? Have you taken classes or are you just self-taught on the things you enjoy/excel at doing (i.e. photography, sewing, etc.)?

gretchen - You’ve done an amazing job of being a great mom and pursuing your own interests. How do you balance it? My kids are getting older and it seems that my life is consumed with their activities. I think you’ve accomplished a healthy balance of being involved with your kids and also carving out space for your own identity. Any suggestions? Do your kids complain when you have events/craftweekend/projects? How do you work it out as a family?

Cyndiloohoo - Just wanna say how fabulous you look in that pic. I can tell you have lost weight and your hair is super cute. How about a tutorial on the craft apron for all of us who will never be able to attend a craft weekend and please share some of the great recipes you guys use on craft weekends?

Lauren M - Rainbow sweaters coming soon? My babies ‘need’ them this fall 🙂

Liz - What’s the difference between raising boys versus girls for you? If you could live any place other than Kansas, where would you go?

amy jupin - ok, here goes:
1. let’s talk about music? i need some new stuff. what is your latest jam?
2. can we please have a craft weekend alumni party? five year reunion?
3. do you want to come over tonight? bring kimberlee. and jana. that would be nice!!!!!!!!!
4. how are you liking your new house?

carrie - I’d love to know if you’ve always been crafty/artistic? And how is Lauren liking college? Some others have suggested a “day in the life”- I would love that too!

LaDonna Abbott - During your craft weekends there is a shopping trip to “the barn” each time. Is it open to the public and if so where is it located at? I would love to visit the next time I am in the area.

Emily - You took pictures of my little boy Brody for his 1st and 2nd birthday. We still love these pictures…Will you ever go back into photography? Also, I would love to see some more of your cooking/recipes. Your meatballs are one of our favorite meals.

Amy - What are your favorite Christian based clothing companies? I love wearing shirts that make you stop and think while supporting small businesses. The one you’re wearing above is a great example!

Nancy - I’d like to know why I have to “close” all these ads when I come to read it. Not to mention the “sponsored” posts. I miss the old Meg, reading about your family and recipes and “life”. It’s sad that this blog has become all about “money”. And, since everyone will tell me that you have a right to make money (I agree) and if I don’t like it, I can stop reading (also correct), I will say farewell.

Sheila - Besides your husband, do you have a best friend – someone you talk to every day no matter what? Are you and your sister close? How about you and your mom?

Julie W - Hi Meg! I would love to see a run down of a normal day in the life of Meg. I know you juggle all kinds of schedules for your kids but still manage to fit in your blog, crafting, working out, etc, etc.

I was lucky enough to have been chosen to attend Craft Weekend 16, so I know what an awesome, cool, laidback kinda gal you are! I feel for these ladies who have been on the CW waiting list for years. I was on for about a year before I was chosen, so hang in there ladies who are waiting! IT’S AWESOME and SO worth the wait!

Thanks Meg; love your blog and seeing your pics on IG! Take care. ~Julie

Nicola - Were you born into a religious family? If not what is your conversion story? If you were what was your experience like? and how is it now raising your family?

Julie - I love your blog, the colour and creativity you share.
What I would like to know is do you ever feel down and how do you cope with life’s curve balls. My family and I have had a hard year, big unexpected house repairs and bills, a car accident, and now a disappointment with the high school we were hoping to get my daughter into.
Thanks for giving us the chance to ask questions about your life.

Julie - Hey Meg- I love your whatever blog!
I have been pondering blogs lately, as I analyze way too much, so here is my question:
Do you ever feel at all creepy that total strangers like to know all about you and see what you are up to with family holidays and what you eat and stuff, and do you ever feel like not writing your blog anymore? (Please don’t stop!)
sometimes I wonder why I don’t want to get behind on reading your blog, and then I ask myself, this lady is a complete stranger, so why am I so interested in her family photos and her life updates??
Sometimes I feel like a creep, but then I remember that hey! This is a blog and since blogs came about we get to invade on strangers life’s and it’s not weird?! kinda like people watching in the mall, only bloggers volunteer more info!! What did we do before blogs?! Anyway, deep thoughts, I know.

Kat - Meg, I would like to know if cutting out sugar is what has really helped you lose weight overall?
I have been going to the gym 4-5 times a week for 18 months and it seems to be only when I really cut down the sugar and carbs that I can notice a difference with my stomach and weight loss.
I only have a few kilo’s to go, but being 42 and having had 4 babies, it is not as easy as it used to be.
You look fabulous, so I thought I would ask 🙂

Lisa - Please please please help this mama out! How do you manage 5 kids messes? Do you have routines for picking up/cleaning/chores? Do they just know to put their crap away? I’m losing my mind with my 4 kids. Mostly cause I’m pregnant with #5 and so exhausted. But I need help! Seriously! We live in a small home and I can’t seem to get them to do what I want…. Ok, this sounds kinda pathetic. But any tips are welcome!
And PS- I do not need a perfectly clean house. I’m really ok with a bit of chaos and mess. But it has gotten OUT OF CONTROL. (Now I need an emoji with the tongue sticking out looking like a crazy person!)

Peta - No question just wanted to pop I and tell you that you are glowing! You look fabulous! X

Amber - Favorite books on faith? I’m going through a season where I am trying/struggling/fighting to reconnect with my faith and my spiritual side. I am currently reading Cold Tangerines, and feel as though my heart is enveloped in one warm hug. 🙂 Thanks!

Andrea - I’d love to know more about being a young mom and Lauren. I know you’ve said she doesn’t like to be as big of a part of the blog now that she’s older, but I’m curious about her! I’m also wondering how you and Craig keep the spark alive with such busy lives! Thank you so much for sharing so much of your life with us. I looooooove your blog! By far my favorite!

Patti - Hi from Canada!
Love your blog and all the fun things you do. Question: do you need a lot of sleep?

Bree - 1. I would love to know more about how the Craft House came to fruition?
2. Seeing the wonderful ideas and the theme of Camp Create has been inspiring to me to find my creative side again! What books, blogs, etc. do you find inspiring? I have poured so much into my family and the “daily routine” (a beautiful blessing!), I don’t really know where to start to find that creative outlet again while balancing life. We have 5 kiddos as well 🙂
Thank you!

Kellie - I would love it if you did ‘a day in the life’ post!

caroline helmers - I’m curious how you paint your furniture. Maybe you’ve shared before, but your results look great. I know you shared your milk painting, but what about your new table and hutch?

shannon - I want to know about the green thing you use to make your coffee. I saw it on instagram and am dying to know. I need to quit my love affair with coffemate!
Also, could you think up a cute Christmas gift for grandparents? ha. I started following you way back when you had the snowman handprint ornaments.

Debbie S - Yesterday I mentioned to my husband that I wanted to paint our two LR bookshelves white and he looked at me like I was c.r.a.z.y. My first thought was, “how in the world did Meg D. talk her husband in to moving out of a home they worked so hard to remodel and make their own?” Seriously, TWO bookshelves. So, spill it…how did you get your husband and kids on board with moving and so much change? 🙂

Lachalle Jones - Those lovely white IKEA sofas . Love them /hate them . Give the good the bad and the ugly about them . Are they HIGH maintenance? Thanks lots they are on the wish list and might make the cut .

Rachel - I adore your openness! You recently posted about Lauren arriving early in your marriage, and talked about her briefly. It was great to hear more about her. I’ve notice that she’s not on your blog that much. Is that by her choice? How’s your relationship with her?

Hannah - What are some of your favorite blogs?

Michelle Deckert Richmond - You are very brave to do this. You had an amazing idea when you thought to open up your charming home for craft weekends. I would like to know if you had to work hard to convince the rest of your family. I know at first they left for the weekends (hard enough) but then,when you left your house completely and went to the rental, how much convincing did that take to get everyone to agree? By the way….I love your blog…it’s the first one I read once I get my 4 girls off to school in the mornings. Michelle from Canada.

Candace - I would love to hear more about your kiddos younger years… It is encouraging to me to hear that my kids will turn out okay since yours seem wonderful! 🙂

Janel - Will I ever get picked to come to craft weekend? It’s been years waitng…. LOL!

I pray for Pam and her family….. Will they be coming back to the US for safety reasons?

I like you. That is all…..

Lisa - Oops! My question disappeared from your comments
You’ve mentioned in the past that you consider yourself somewhat of an introvert. I think you seem very outgoing–always hosting or participating in large social groups. Is that challenging for you?

Chelsea - My question is basically the same as Kathy’s in CT… how did you get started doing craft weekends and what tips would you have for someone wanting to do the same thing. I would love to do something like this but without a big internet following, a popular blog how is the best way to start working towards something like this. Thanks!

Michelle from Australia - I love the questions above. And love that two ladies have already asked exactly what was on my mind. I’ve been on the Craft Weekend waiting list for a few years now and would love, Love, LOVE to get my chance to come to Kansas. But coming from Australia a little forward planning (think…..a LOT Of forward planning!) would be involved. That doesn’t worry me. But realistically, am I ever likely to get chosen? Or should I just give up on it? Thank you for the gift of your blog Meg. It is often the bright point in my day.

Tanya - I just like ya! Always have. The one and only blog I keep up with. Smiles and hugs :):):)

Tracie - Hi Meg! Love your colorful blog, something I look forward to reading during my work day. So, are you interested in adopting a 30-something from California? We don’t have houses like yours, wide open fields and good thriftin’ out here on the west coast. I like to organize and make a mean homemade salsa! (Wouldn’t have to sign any official docs!) Ha ha ok—Would love to know more about the Craft House, the history, etc. Is life really that picturess and good in Kansas?? Last, I promise, How do you say not take home every treasure you come across when you take the girls antiquing?!? You pictures are dreamy

Emily - Did the idea of 5 kids ever panic you? We just found out we’re pregnant with our 5th (a surprise) We will have 5 kids in 7 years and I feel a bit panicky. You seem to enjoy the chaos so much. Did it ever throw you?

Alicia @ Investing Love - I really wanna know your blog tips…like how to be so stinkin’ awesome. 🙂

Georgia Newman - What advice would you give your 18yr old self?

Tina J - Hi Meg! Wondering what’s on your reading list and what music your listening to right now??

Stephanie - One silly question I have–how tall are you? Your husband looks tall and so do your boys, but I know cameras can throw things off quite a bit. Random, I know.
I too have been wondering about Pam and her family. I think about them every time I hear the sad news about Ebola and Liberia.

Valerie Alicea - I am a long time blog reader, and have loved seeing you be so intentional about being creative with your kids. What tips do you have for doing crafty projects with a toddler?

Angela - Hi, Meg! I’ve been reading for a few years, occasionally comment. I would like to ditto these questions: What does the Mr. do for a living? (Not specifics, just like what line of work) And would you ever post a tutorial for the ruffle aprons?

New questions: Where are your favorite places to buy cute, but inexpensive fabrics? I’m new to sewing. 🙂 And finally, what is your full first name? I’ve randomly always wondered if you were Meg short for Megan or Meg short for Margaret or just Meg. Is that dumb? 🙂

kimberly oyler - why did you guys decide to move out of the craft house?

midwestmom - Will you please please please walk us through step by step pictures and descriptions to make a quilt with your daughter? I would so love to dothis! We are super beginners.
Also i would love to see more of your meals as someone else mentioned. I have done 2 – 30 day Challenges plus the Sugar Detox so I’d love to see what you are making now that you are eating healthy.
Also just want to say I’ve followed your blog for years. Way before the Craft House and it’s one of my favorites. And like several others, I’ve been on the waiting list since the day the waiting list was posted 🙂 fingers still crossed!

Jacci in Ohio - Ok 🙂 I’ll go.

I think we’re all tempted to think others think the same way we do, struggle the same way we do, work through things the same way… but, that’s not always true. It really may be that you’ve been able to walk away from the Craft House with no struggle… but, if not, I’d really like to hear more about what God has taught you through leaving that house. Our own family moved 5 years ago into a home that we’ve been remodeling since. It’s been a looooong, extended lesson for me in contentment, thankfulness, materialism, and what really makes a house “home”. It has exposed idols I didn’t realize I was clinging to. I struggled SO much with having most of my house ugly and torn up for years. I’ve been overwhelmed by the sheer amount of work remaining. I know you and Craig have completely redone two homes. If you’ve had to work through struggles like that, I would be encouraged to read about them… and about what you’ve learned… where you are now.

Thanks, Meg 🙂

Tammy - Meg, I’ve been following your blog for 6-7 years because it has always been fun to see what you’ve crafted, cooked & decorated next. I would love to know more about your spiritual side – your personal testimony, how you nurture your faith as well as your favorite books/devotionals. Thanks for continuing to share your life with all of us. Your blogging brings color to the world as well as to the heart. 🙂

Nicole - Would you ever sell your clothes you don’t wear anymore on your blog?? Like first come first serve type of thing? I love all the clothes you wear!!

Amy - It’s really inspiring to see you work on your weight loss. What is the most you ever weighed? How did you maintain a positive body image when you were heavier?

How did you learn to sew? And to do DIY projects?

What is your biggest struggle as a mother? What was your biggest struggle as a mother of young children?

Thanks for opening up to questions. I’m interested to read your responses.

Karen Boldt - As someone who comes from a Mennonite background, I see the name Duerksen and of course like any good Mennonite wonder if we could be distantly related?! Or more specifically I suppose to your husband if that is his last name. And Mennonite is a big word and means lots, to different people in different parts of the world. (I’m Canadian) So my question that I’ve often wondered is- do you and your husband embrace the faith of our Mennonite heritage?

Melissa - Faithful reader since ’08 🙂 love your blog.

Also patiently waiting to come to craft weekend 🙂

How are the kids doing? Esp. Lauren (i know she didn’t want to be on the blog much anymore). How do you train the pups?

Angela - Will you ever take your *show on the road* and come to us in NC.?

Jennifer R - Love your blog! Who are those adorable babies your girls are feeding? Do your kids have chores? If yes, do you reward them with allowance or something different? I find I do way too much nagging to get our girls to get things done (especially with our 8-yr-old dau). Any suggestions?

Rebecca - Nothing to ask, just a BIG HUGE thank you for never disappointing me over the years….I think the first time i read your blog was when you were having a Bible study at your house and you ran out of cheese for cheese dip and sent someone to a neighbor’s and discovered you were out of TP and sent someone to another neighbors and Annie comes downstairs with yellow paint all over her…You sent Talby up to look and she said, “mom, it’s bad” she had painted the tv, among other things. When I have the time I will go back and read. Ok, love you to pieces!

Jill D - I would love to know more about your recent trip to Liberia.

Barbara (WA) - Just wondering if you have used the 21 Fix again? Inspired by you and some other bloggers I purchased the program but have struggled with buckling down and figuring out the food plan. And the DVD only worked in my hubby’s TV downstairs which is the room we are remodeling right now, poo. You look great so I decided to ask! (Oh, and I am probably old enough to be your Granny, heh!)

Betsy - Meg…I love your use of colors…have you always been into color or only as an adult? Thank you! Betsy

Wendi - ditto to many of these questions…
curious about the reality of the sugar detox when feeding my young family.
would always love to hear more about your faith.
does sharing online ever make things weird/uncomfortable with your “real life” friends/family/acquaintances?
would also love to hear more about the craft weekend business…how you got started, more of the details of the business end, preparation reality, how your family handles it when your gone, etc.
I just have to say that I love your blog because you are so real…I think we would be friends in real life 😉 thanks for sharing!!

Carrie - Hi Meg! I second questions about Pam and your fitness/health/motivation.

Also, not trying to be controversial or stir up drama… But I don’t get/disagree with the commenter about shame/guilt etc…. Don’t know what that’s about? You seem so real and transparent and positive to me as well as connected to the good and bad that is life. Rock on.

s - Will you and Kimberlee ever share craft weekend recipes??!!!

Amber - Hi! I’d love to know the deets on that awesome green stripey goodness behind the red lettered sign above the fireplace in the craft house. I’ve been dying over that thing since I first saw it!!

jessica - How do you manage to eat healthy with your kids and their junk food? Do you make separate meals for your family?

Lee Ann Willis - Hi Meg – I have been following your blog since 2008. I was curious since you don’t post about it much, how do you handle school work? How involved are you with projects and homework and how do you handle the evening chaos of dinner, homework & extracurricular activities etc?

I work full time and it seems impossible to fix dinner so I am a short order cook most nights for my 2 girls (age 12 and 9)and most things are processed foods.

Oh and one more question do you like Gilmore Girls? Seems the perfect show for you. 🙂

Elisa - how do we get more waffle & stanley pics?

how about a day in the life post (pick your most maxed day bc it always amazes me all that you get done)

can you do one of those tour guide posts for your area/region? I enjoyed your vacation post in St. Louis; added a lot of ‘must see’ to my vacay list

how do you incorporate your faith as a family in everyday living? how do you help guide your children to further grow in their personal faith?

broadly speaking, what line of work does your husband do?

so about those doggie pics… 😉

Em - Where are your favorite Kansas thrift stores or places to go treasure hunting? Or maybe some of your other favorite Kansas spots? I’m from NE Kansas but have a friend down your way. Also what do you consider a fair price for old quilts?

Lisa - Hi Meg

I recall you saying that you consider yourself somewhat of an introvert. I’m wondering how difficult it is for you to do so many large group social things. You seem so outgoing! Thanks!

Jenna - Nothing too serious here, but have you watched this video?! http://andreasnotebook.com/2014/09/hilarious-taylor-swift-pinterest-parody.html it is a good one for every crafty lady 🙂

Jamie - Your blog is full of great ideas, crafts, dreams, etc. Ever thought about publishing a book??

Anessa - Okay I have a few questions for you.

If I recall you painted all the trim in the new house. Just wondering what sort of process you used and how you feel about it. I really want to paint all of ours but am a little nervous about it. Also how about an update on house projects?

Did I see you making a bunch of cute flower type pins that you were going to put in the shop? Did I just make this up? Were they in the Shop and I missed them?

How are the girls quilts they were making coming along? They looked like so much fun. Also have you done anymore projects from that cute “we Love to Sew” book?

Okay guess that is it for now 🙂

Erin - What does the mister do for a living!?

Ellen - Hi Meg!! I love your blog…your reality, genuineness, acceptance and grace are so evident. Your sense of humor knocks it out of the park!! I have two questions, one of substance and one for fun. First, could you please describe how you and Craig keep your marriage happy and healthy? It is clear that you do a very good job of maintaining your connection. I am a therapist and am often asked for “the secrets” to a happy marriage. Jesus is number one….what are some others? Maybe Craig can give some input? Second, can we please see some more pics of your new home??? Pretty please with rainbow sprinkles on top!!! Thank you for being such a bright spot and blessing! You are adored! 🙂

Erin - Hi there! I have a random organization question for you–how do you store/wrap the bunting that you’ve made in the past? I have visions of mine turning into a Christmas-light-snarled mess of a nightmare! Thanks for (hopefully) answering. BTW, your blog is such an inspiration–bring on all that saturated color 🙂

Marjie - The question I always come back to after some of your “deeper” posts is…..What about your life makes you feel so (guilty, ashamed, unworthy, sad in your soul)? I don’t know if those are the best words to describe how I interpret your feelings from some of your posts. Was your post on your ‘Twenty Years” a freeing post for you? It was my favorite post ever!!!

Ana - Had you lost a lot of weight recently? Do any of your kids play instruments?
I love your blog. It’s the one I never tire of.

elma - Hi Meg!! Just love love love your blog!! I was wondering where you shop for all your beautiful clothes?? How do you keep your house so clean? Hows Pam doing??

Angela - I have followed your blog for many years, (it’s my favorite) I’ve watched it evolve which I realize is natural with the kids getting older and your priorities changing but recently I wondered if you’re tired of blogging or if you rather make it mostly about the craft house. So (finally, lol) do you think at some point your blog will only feature craft house posts?

Katy Apicello - I have a few questions for you.. 🙂

What is your favorite meal to make for your family?

How is Lauren?

Will you do a tutorial on the craft weekend apron? Please? 🙂

Amy Griffin - So how would you feel, if my Bestie and I showed up at your house one day and asked you to take us to the Barn??? I am just joking…well kinda!! LOL

Heather G - How do you do it all?! You have a busy life, how do you keep track of it all? Do you have a command center or planner? Do you ever have days you are to overwhelmed and you just veg out on the couch.

Kathi - Hi Meg!
I’ve been following for a while, before Annie started school. Do you ever worry or had any problems putting your life online?

Kathy - OK, here it is … my BIG question … I really, really, really, really want to start something similar to your craft weekends here in CT … probably on a MUCH smaller scale at first but it’s just a HUGE dream of mine. How did you get it all started? How did you find sponsers, find people to come, etc ….
My house is WAY too tiny for a whole weekend thing – but maybe I could do it in a rented hotel space or just start with a ‘craft day’ to start … please help! =)
Kathy

Jenn - I hope you don’t mind a few questions. I know you said don’t make it awkward, so I’m just asking because you said I could..hee 🙂 I’ve been on the CraftWeekend wait list for almost 3 years. I know you said it was a lottery, but how exactly do you pull the names? How’s Pam? Do you exercise everyday or do you rest on the weekends? Thanks for sharing your life. I love how God helped me find you and I draw such inspiration from your blog and you.

lacey - I would love to hear about/see pics of a normal day for you. as a fellow mama & creative, seeing how your days flow would be fun.

Sami Jo - So here it is – all official and schtuff – how do you juggle your walk with the Lord and focusing on getting healthy. I’ve found with almost ALL of my friends that once they start working out – that is ALL they talk about. ALL they think about. And I’ve mentioned to you, that I think you do this quite well. I am incredibly unhealthy and I realize this – so maybe that is why I notice them chatting so much about being and getting healthy – because I’m not and I feel bad about that — feel guilty. … I just want to get healthy and not have it consume my everything. … that’s for Jesus, ya know? And juggling your business and your family…? What are your best tips/advice, girlly? Thanks!!

Lynda M. - Hi Meg! I would love to know what you eat on a average day and what type of exercise you are doing because you look fabulous!!

Carrie - Hi Meg,

My question… do you ever feel panicked that you have such a large following? I question myself a lot, and I wonder how you are so confident…

and another question… will I ever been chosen for Craft weekend? I’ve been on the list for about 4 years? 🙂

Really though, just my first question.

Holly - Planning on doing any sales in your shop in the near future? I think my kitchen needs a certain cow print.

Marsha Kern - How is Pam and her family???

Hannah - On a scale of 1-10 how hard is martas sugar detox challenge?! Annnnd on a scale of 1-10 how much did you love it?! I keep trying to convince myself to do it… How did you not cheat with kids and a husband around obviously eating sugar full foods?! Have you done it again/are you planning to?

Julie - Easy one for ya….one time you posted a pic of your morning coffee ingredients on facebook/instagram. Where did you get the nifty lil green whisk thingy you use?? 🙂

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kansas glory

September 12, 2014 Filed in photography,pretty,things i love

we are deep into Camp Create right now (oh-my-gosh-it-is-so-much-fun!!!)
we are creating… listening to holley speak…. processing…. and eating so very well.
that kimberlee has such a gift for choosing the best foods to make women feel loved.

we went to the barn and shop today.
i thought it was so full of everything amazing.
i always love what the ladies find but today was especially good.
old chippy junk makes me so happy.

everyone is creating with stephanie right now so i have a moment to post.
i was having trouble with the tech-y side of the blog all week so now i have got it figured out (thanks to the Pro-photo peeps).
i have been dying to share these sunflower pics.
this field is 2 miles from my house.
i had a moment of complete awe when i drove by it… i mean… W O W!

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Melissa - Aaaaah- I love these sunflower pictures!!! They are beautiful and capture the glory of God’s creation! 🙂 The picture quality coming across my computer screen is amazing!

Jenna - The sunflower fields say “home” to me. I’ll be hoping for a print in the future!!

Lilly - oh what glory! i hope you will sell some of these as prints in your shop – I would love to buy some, they are just full of joy!

alison - amazing photos!! good luck with the new project .
did you take the photos with 100 macro lens? thanks

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - Oh Meg, I’m so exited for you. This is just awesome.

Heidi Jo the Artist - You made my Monday a little more happy. Thank you. 🙂

Carrie Kiser - I spy a little buy playing peek a boo in the 5th picture!!

Melissa - Soooo pretty!

tracy - Meg, those sunflower pictures are simply stunning. What lens did you use ?

Thanks!

Kathi - Beautiful! You do a wonderful job of capturing that beauty, thank you 🙂

Penny - Meg-I passed a field of sunflowers the other day and you popped into my mind. It was not as large as this field, but beautiful just the same. You take some fantastic photos! Thank you so much for sharing these.

shushi - Amazing !! love love sunflower and your beautiful photos 😉
Did you use macro lens?

Michelle Ludt - Gorgeous pictures! Moved from Kansas about a year ago, so these pics are making me VERY homesick! Miss my sunflowers and deep blue skies! Thanks for sharing! Made my day!

Jenna - I have always wanted to stumble upon a sunflower field! Next year I am just going to come sleep in the middle of this field and bask in it’s glory 24/7! Beyond breathtaking!

La - Meg! Please sell these prints!!!!

amelia w. - Why is there a field of sunflowers? Does somebody plant it just because its pretty or do they sell the flowers? They are beautiful!

Marjie - Please print the “Bee in Flight”!!! So awesome!

kimberly oyler - oh my gosh!!! can you believe that in all my life of living in kansas i’ve never seen a sunflower field?

Jenn - Amazing!

stephany - Oh, how I love sunflowers.
Your photos of them always make me smile.
I especially love the one of the pollen laden bee flying away from the flower.
I might have to go look for some sunflower fields here in Oregon this weekend!
Thanks for making me smile this morning.

Gail - Sunflowers are just another reason I love my state. Your pics are beautiful.

martha - The bees in flight are awesome! Job well done!

Pam - Wow! Just. wow!!!!!

Jenny B. - Man, they are HUGE! And you are so brave out there with all those BEES! 😀

Amy - Oh soooo pretty!!! It’s amazing how much beauty you can find in a simple field. I hope there are prints in the future:)

Lisa - These pictures are beyond gorgeous! Always love your sunflower pictures. 🙂

Michelle from Australia - Every time I see a sunflower I have a ‘How Great Thou Art!’ moment. Only a wonderful God could have made something so beautiful. Thank you for sharing. LOVE the pics!

CathyC - WOW! Just Beautiful!

Tricia - Lovely! I would love to see these in your shop! 🙂

Lori Byrne - Wow, all these sunflowers facing the sun gives me goosebumps. What a world we would live in if we all faced the ‘Son’…..Hope Camp Create is awesome – sounds like it already is!

Andrea - meg…..glad you are having a creative, fun time!!!! These pictures are so pretty….please sell copies of these prints……. pretty please
Andrea

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watershot

September 5, 2014 Filed in family fun,playtime,things i love

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this is a Watershot Phone case for using your phone camera UNDER WATER.
we have the basic model.
you open the case (shown above) and set your phone inside, close it up and it seals it in tight-tight-tight.
i was nervous but it worked perfectly.  🙂

there are different models depending on what kind of smart phone you have.

we wished we would have gotten it at the beginning of summer because this thing is SO MUCH FUN!!

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the last time i went underwater…. may have been years ago.
but this camera made me want to play with my kids.
it was fun to get silly with them again.

and now we are figuring out how soon we can go swimming again!

the Watershot is AWESOME!

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julie - meg, you look awesome underwater!!

Laura h - Crazy fun!! I could never open my eyes under water!!! Jealous of people that can do that! What great family bonding!

Mindy - How fun are these pictures?! Oh I wish we would have had one of these when our daughter was small. Technology is amazing…

Kristi Rediske - Great pictures-i just can’t believe how great everyone of you look under the water! I am checking into this case! I want one! Oh-what phone do you have-it works good.

Stephanie - These shots are SO cool! I’m gonna have to look into that before our (possible) trip to Hawaii! Love it!!

Kathryn - MY question is what was your husband about to grab that you had to hold his hand with that apparent deadgrip?! 😉

Jenny B. - That looks like so much fun! My MOST favorite picture is the one of Talby’s smile with her braces. SUCH a great shot!

Hanny Norton-van der Valk - Love the photo’s, but what is your husband doing with his glasses on under water?????

Charlton - That looks like so much fun! I bookmarked the website to show my husband later. I think we might need to invest in something like that for next summer. I’m always so afraid to take pictures of my girls at the pool for fear of dropping my phone! This would be perfect!

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twenty years!

September 3, 2014 Filed in just the two of us

we started dating when i was a sophomore in high school.
actually… he was my first date i ever went on.
i remember it more than any of our other dates.
it was when i was a freshman… i was 14 years old.   oh. my. word.
but i broke up with him after a month or two because i was young & wanted to date other boys.
all the boys.
that lasted… not too long.
by the next summer we were together… forever.  🙂
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we got married sooner than we would have planned but babies bring situations up a notch.
there we were… 18 & 20, married, baby on the way and moved to Illinois all by ourselves.
we knew no one but each other.
craig was a junior in college… full time student athlete at Northwestern.
i worked as a temp at the college until Lauren was born.
afterwards i went back to work and craig watched lauren by himself.
(student athletes cannot work during the school year – NCAA rules)

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we found a church right away.
and we think… THAT was a huge strength to a young couple.
i didn’t want to but he knew we should be a part of a church.
he found one and i remember i was at my parents visiting and he said over the phone “i went t a church today that i think you will like”
and we went from then on.
we met our friends that changed our lives there.
it was a special place to us.
and it happened slowly over the 10 years we were there.
but that place was safe and we grew in our faith, our marriage and as parents to our kids.

he graduated.
we moved to a “nice” apartment… oh boy we thought that place was awesome!!!
two bathrooms! two window AC units! a patio!  an elevator to get to the second floor!
we loved that apartment.
he got a job in Illinois and we decided to stay & not move back to kansas like we had always said we would do.
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we bought a house and fixed it up room by room.
we had scott.  then sean.  then talby.
we had THE BEST time raising our kids in that little white house.
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we found out we were pregnant with annie the day after we came home from our 10 year anniversary trip.
we were in shock.
good news of course but 5 babies in 10 years was a lot.
our house was getting full.
we started looking for what was next.
it ended with moving back in kansas.
we knew that was God because we wanted to go someplace new.
God thought we should come back home…. so we did.
2 weeks after annie was born we moved to kansas.

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we bought a big 100 year old house that had space for 10 kids if we’d have had them.
we remodeled every room again just as we’d done in IL.
we enjoyed our time together working on the house too!
our kids grew.
and grew.
i started a blog and began writing about our everyday life.
after 7  years of loving that old beautiful home… we moved out.
we decided very quickly that we would move to the rental farm house so that we could be close to our kids new schools and run my business from the old house.
what an adventure!
it was crazy but it felt so right it wasn’t even funny.
god gave us complete peace about that decision.
we LOVED that farm house.

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we loved having so much family time just being together outside.
it was a great place to be.
we stayed there two years.
and then we moved again.
we bought a house in town… close to everything… something we owned… it was time.
and here we are.
20 years of marriage.
our daughter whose being essentially forced us to make a decision 20 years ago if we were in this or not… is a sophomore in college!
she is now older than we were when we got married and had her!
and she is awesome.
we are proud of her and how well she is doing at school.

twenty years is a lot.
but it feels like we just started… there is so much fun yet to be had!

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he is my best friend and he lets me know i am his.
he is so funny and he makes me feel like i am VERY funny.
he is patient, considerate and thorough.
he is the hardest worker.
he’s helpful & grateful.
he takes care of me and his family like an expert.
i am so proud to be his wife… i can’t believe i am so lucky.
He didn’t leave when he could have.
he has always been right here.

thank you mr. duerksen.
for making twenty years feel like a cake walk.
i love you.

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Sunday Faves – Free Education, Homegrown Veg & Love to Admire | ss_site_title - […] Image Credit: Megduerksen.com I really hope I’m writing similar words in 15 years time So those were my favourite posts this week – please share yours with me in the comments, I’d love to check them out!  […]

Shelby Shreck-Beck - I absolutely LOVE this post!!! It is evident that you two love each other so much just by looking at the pictures. This is so refreshing to see when so many marriages today end in divorce. It is obvious you have something special and over the years took the time to nurture it and as a result you have 5 beautiful children and a strong marriage. Congratulations!!!

tracy fisher - I absolutely LOVE your story!

Kris - Happy Anniversary! My husband and I will celebrate our 21st anniversary next month and our oldest is a sophomore in college too! I love how happy you two are and how you said the first 20 yrs were a piece of cake. I feel the exact same way. People said it would be hard at first but it sure hasn’t been so far! I just heard on the news this morning how young people aren’t getting married anymore and don’t see the point. That makes me sad. Maybe they should read your post 🙂

Melissa - Happy Anniversary- what a beautiful post about your beautiful family! Blessings!

britt - amazing. Loved this post. Congratulations.

Tami - Wow, 20 yrs is a long time! Congrats to you guys and many more to come! I stumbled onto your blog about 6 years ago and peek on here time to time when Im not so busy! Your daughter Annie was a toddler when I first started reading, she has really grown up now! I love how colorful your blog is and its Christian based which I love. Many years of happiness, blessings and faith to you guys! xoxo

Chris - Happy Anniversary!! I love your story!! Thank you for sharing it!!

Amy - Thanks for sharing. We have two babies 18 months apart, 2 and 8 months old, and it feels like we’re in this weird twilight zone where nothing will ever exist besides diapers, Sesame Street, baby snuggles, and cleaning up messes. It’s good, but it’s great to be reminded that this is really just one stage of our lives, not the sum total of our lives/marriage. 🙂 Congrats on 20 years!

beth larson - I love your love story, thank you for sharing it. And can I just say that you were cute at 18 and 20- but you are both cuter now!

Amber - Happy Anniversary Mr. and Mrs. Duerksen! May God bless you with many more years of happiness together!!! I enjoy peeking in on your life and catching up with what yall are doing. I view you as my online friend far away, even though it’s totally one sided and that’s kinda wierd. Hopefully one day I can come to a Craft Weekend and meet you in person! Keep up the wonderful inspiration!! Thanks for making me smile!!!!

Kristin S - I feel like a total blog stalker, but I’ve read this post a few times already this week. Marriage is to be celebrated! God’s faithfulness is reflected at each point you described.

You are living my dream. I’m 43 and single. It never dawned on me back in college that I wouldn’t be sending my kids to college at my current age like my peers. It’s weird.

Thank you for sharing, Meg. I wonder what God has planned for the next 20!

Tiffany - Wow! What a lovely tribute, and a beautiful life you have created together! You are blessed! 🙂 Happy Anniversary, friend!

Tanya H - I love it! Great photo collection!
We just celebrated 15 years and I put together a digi scrapbook page of photos of us on or near our anniversary thru the years. 🙂

debbie - I love you blog! I love this post! Isn’t God amazing in the way he leads and guides our lives and blesses us with the right life partner! Marriage isn’t always easy but focusing on the blessings and all the positives makes us realize all the blessings we have to gether as a couple! Have a wonderful day and wishing you many more years together – 40 …60!

Jessica Shrock - Love this post! Congrats to you and the Mr.

Sherry - I’ve read you for years now. I’m with the others, this was one of my favorites. I really like your family. Like a lot.

Jen - I absolutely loved this post! (Tears ran down my face as I could feel the love) Congratulations on 20 years! It is awesome to know that not only do you love your husband but you like him as a friend too. You should feel proud of the amazing journey you are on together. Here’s to 30 more!

ranee - i love this post…congrats on 20 years! My husband and I just celebrated our 10 year anniversary this summer…this made me even more excited to look forward to the next 10!

Flower Patch Farmgirl - Well, this is the happiest post ever. It almost unsicks me. Almost…

I love this line: there is so much fun yet to be had!

And in one of those pics Lauren and Scott look SO much alike! I don’t think I’ve ever noticed that before with them.

I like your family very much.

Jenny B. - What a sweet, sweet post!! Happy Anniversary!!

Kelly - Way to go on 20 years! Kelly

Mrs. H - Happy Anniversary!

Stacey - Thanks for making me cry! WOW, you two look better each year! Congrats on 20 yeras and such an awesome journey. And 5 beautiful kids!

Abby Stanger - You are such a delight! I have followed your blog for several years and enjoyed hearing about your family life from the beginning! You inspire me to be a better mom, wife and working woman!

Kelly Sites - What a beautiful story and life. You guys are super cute!!!!!!
Congrats!!!!

Tessa - Congrats on 20 years! I realized after reading this post, that I need to take more pictures with my hubby and I. We have plenty from our younger years but hardly any recent ones. I guess 3 more kids (we have 4 all together) in 4 last years will do that to you! 🙂 Thanks for the inspiration!

Susan A - Greetings from Illinois! Super-sweet post! Love all of the pictures. Happy 20th to you and your hubby!! You are both so blessed with a beautiful family and I love following your blog. Thank you for sharing your talents!

Tracie M - Congrats on 20 years and blessings on many many more! I applaud you for choosing the hard way, marriage and family when you were so young. Well done! I keep reminding my unmarried friends that marriage is a choice, to love that person when when you don’t feel like it. It can be a tough road but it’s oh so worth it!

Kristin - That was beautiful. Congratulations, and happy anniversary!

angela - Love this walk thru 20 years! What a blessed life! You are amazing and have more talent in your little finger than I have in my whole body. Heard a GREAT quote that you may like: *I want my marriage to be more beautiful than my wedding.*

chrissi - so many good things about this post. my favorite, your husband found you two a church. that kind of says it all. …and it shows. your smiles say it all. congratulations!

Carrie - Beautiful

gretchenee - You always inspire me, but I think this is THE BEST. I love seeing strong marriages in action. Happy 20th! We celebrate ours in May and I’m more in love than ever!

Elizabeth Cannata - Darn you! It is 8:18am and I am drinking my coffee and trying to start my day. Now tears are running dowm my face, makeup and all. It is ok because reading your story gave me hope. It is so refreshing to hear about a family choosing life instead of abortion. You are all so blessed and I hope the blessings continue until you all go straight to heaven. Congrats on 20 years!!!

tasha roe - congrats! what a beautiful journey the two of you have been on!! wishing you many more years together!!

Gina - Wow! Twenty years is quite an accomplishment these days especially considering your start!! I know because my marriage started the same way. Thankfully (only God!!) we are on our 31st year!! 🙂 This is one of my favorite posts of yours. I love all the photos through the years!! To God be ALL the glory!!

Cara Yeh - Happy Anniversary! It was so fun to read your story… (And see all your hairstyles!)

Heidi Jo the Artist - Happy Anniversary! Isn’t marriage an amazing journey!? Cool to document it, your kids will appreciate it someday, if not already today. Many blessings for many more happy years together!

Gevay - Happy Anniversary! Lovely story!

Michelle Deckert Richmond - Happy Anniversary to a beautiful couple….now and then. Michelle from Canada.

Jen Dahl - this is awesome. congrats on 20 years and a beautiful family – every one of you has a smile that lights up a room. looking at your family grow through the years was really, really fun. photos are SO important in telling our stories! thank you for sharing yours…

angie - meg… i’ve been following your blog for years… gotta say… LOVED this post… it made me tear up! what a trip down memory lane… seeing all of these pics in one spot from over the years… happy anniversary to you and mr. duerksen! what a journey… wishing you many more years of happiness!!!

Renee - I love everything about this. Lovely posts like this are what blogs are all about!!

kelly - Megan, I luv your story….. Happy Anniversary and way to rock 20 years.

Jennifer - Sweet tears and smiles as I read this. I love my story of marrying my high school sweetheart 26 years ago — at 19, and loved reading your story too. Happy Anniversary!

Erin - Happy Happy Happy 20th Anniversary!!!

Heather - Absolutely beautiful. Everything. And so nice to see people staying committed to each other and their families!

Tina - Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful love story. We need our world to see this kind of Love. Congratulations!!

Sarah Kirchmann - Seriously, Meg! What an inspiration!!!

Jenn - Congrats on your 20 years. I have been married for 18 years. I too married at 18. It’s not always easy, especially when kids come along. I’m very lucky to have him. It doesn’t feel like 18 years. It’s just flown by.

Carol S. - So sweet. Jealous you have all these wonderful pictures in one place! Bet that was no easy feat. but very worth it. College athlete at Northwestern, who knew? Best wishes for many more. With the last one home a hs sophomore, I’m seeing glimpses of our future with just the two of us…looks good since there’s joy at every stage.

Kate - You have a wonderful story. Congratulations.

Angie B - What a sweet, sweet post. Made me tear up a little; thanks for sharing. And, unrelated, you sure have worn a lot of hairstyles over the past 20 years! I think I’ll probably keep rockin the side pony til I die.

Janelle - Oh…sitting here at 5:30 a.m. a little teary eyed! SOOOO sweet. You and I both wore the SAME wedding dress!!! I got married in 1995 so it must have been a popular style around then 😉 Fun to see Meg! Congratulations!

Rachel - What a lovely post and I loved all the hairstyles – had a few of them myself!!! Happy anniversary.

Charissa - Best post! Happy 20.

Leslie - OH my. I loved this post! I got engaged at 18 and married my husband when I was 21, and we’ve been together 12 years now. I love hearing about couples who “grow up” and “grow old” together. And I love your blog!

Tiffany - That made me smile, Happy 20th Anniversary!

r - You are so lucky to have such a great marriage and a friend in your husband. Wishing I had the same.

laura oyler - love this! happy anniversary! i can’t believe you lived in the farm house for 2 years….felt like you were there for just a minute!

Ashley - This post makes me all kinds of happy! Love you two together!

Tricia - Happy Anniversary!!! I love that you got to grow up together. Hope that the next 20 years are just as much fun as the first 20!

Julie Friesen - Congrats on twenty years, Megan and Craig! It was fun to read your “history”. You two are so cute together! I need to take more pictures with Andy… seeing all of yours makes me think we don’t have very many together. Enjoy your day!

Jenna - Awe, love your story! You are an inspiration to me!

Michele - This was one of neatest things you’ve ever written. Happy 20th Anniversary! I just shared it with a friend.

Renee - wow. i don’t know you personally, but this gets me choked up. We’re 4 years and 2 kiddos in and i LOVE being married. seems like it’s easy to talk down about marriage on the internet these days. your joy in your marriage is so refreshing. and encouraging. just, wow! i can’t wait to have been married for 20 years 🙂 thanks for writing.

Stephanie - Oh, happy anniversary! I love your story. Your family is so relatable (we have seven kids and got married early), and I love reading about you all. This post brings tears to my eyes as I’m missing my husband who has been gone most of the summer. Here’s to many more years together!

Helen - I remember the first time we met you was at a Community Life (AKA Care Group)intro at church. I was in awe of you with your five kiddos, Annie was tiny. What a blessing you have been with your absolutely honest blog. I love reading about what you have thought to do next. You are an amazing woman, and your man is too. My man thinks he is a great guy. Glad you moved back to KS, and even though we hardly ever talk, know I am enjoying you from afar, sort of.
God bless you two and your great family!

Meg - Happy 20th Anniversary! What a beautiful and touching story of faith and family. You are an inspiration.

Juli - Awww, how sweet! Thank you for taking us on a walk through your family album. You are all adorable.

Jenny J - What a beautiful love story. Love reading your blog and enjoying the journey you are having with your beautiful family, god bless 🙂 x

Jodie - Congratulations!

Angela - Happy Anniversary to you both! I loved this entire post and the pictures! I too was married young with a little one on the way and we’re still happily together 23 years later.

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - Happy anniversary! I love every picture!! Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us.

Katie - What wonderful blessings through the years… love is awesome.

Pamela - What a great post, looking at your journey together through all those pictures. It is my wedding anniversary tomorrow, 21 years. September’s a good month!

Jessica Wheeler - Now that is dripping in sweetness…Thanks for sharing! God is SO good and evident in your journey:) love from Bama!

nakcus - What a beautiful story! Happy Anniversary!

Christy - Congrats on 20 years!! Thanks for sharing your story and the pictures. What a great post – one of my favorites!

kelli - This is gorgeous. I love your love story. It gave me goosebumps. Congrats to you and the beautiful, happy family you’ve made together! Hope you’re celebrating big-time! xoxox

ellen patton - What a good life you’ve had!

Jenny - I’ve been a reader for a long time now and I think this is my favorite post you’ve ever written! I LOVE IT! Also, I would love to know how you organize and archive your pictures. Would you do a blog post sometime about how you do that? Or if you’ve written one in the past, id love to read it! Can you point me towards it?

Also, confession time: I went to the Making Things Happen conference in March 2013. One of the questions that we really had to dig deep on is what is a dream job. Like – what would we really really want to do if nothing stood in our way. And my answer was to have your job! A shop, blog and host craft weekends at a home where people come and stay and I can invest in them, help them create memories and teach them! Hope that doesn’t all sound weird to say – just wanted you to know you truly are an inspiration. It is my goal to do something like you do once I raise my babies and have a little more time to focus on creative endeavors!

Lisa - I love this post today! Happy anniversary… what a great story you both have. A testimony about making things work through the good and hard. Have a wonderful day celebrating 20 yrs!!! Something to be very proud of!

Julie - Congratulation – what a love story. Thank you for sharing it and all the photos too. You are a beautiful family.

Necole@seriouslysassymama - I met my husband when I was 14, and we have been together every since.

Whitney - Oh Meg! I love every bit of this story! I don’t know you in real life, but I’ve been reading for years and feel like I do 🙂 Happy anniversary! You have such an adorable family.

Karen in NYC - Meg, This post is really special, especially because of all the photos, including from the early years. And, I realize it is totally not the point of your post, but it’s fun to see your hair styles through the years!

HJM - Such a great story! Your family has beautiful smiles. 🙂

Amy - One thing I loved about this post…besides your amazing love for each other…Craig’s 2 hairstyles and your 20+ hairstyles. 🙂 Congratulations! You are an amazing example of what marriage should be.

Anne Cucchi - Love following your blog! Happy 20th Anniversary…We’re celebrating our 30th today. September 3rd is one lucky day!!!!

Heidi Durant - Love this. Me and my Mr. were married young also. Going on 14 years. I love to read stories of marriages that are strong and successful. Thank you for sharing a glimpse of your journey!

Angie - thank you – thank you for sharing your life with us. This was a wonderful way of demonstrating your love. Very romantic and touching (i cried). When do we hear from Mr. Duerksen. I would love to read his point of view..
Happy Anniversary – May God bless you and your family.

Marsha Kern - Best wishes on 20 years, you guys make a wonderful and cute family here is to lots more!!!

Linda Johnston - Thank you for sharing your journey!! Its beautiful. Full of love, joy and hope. What an inspiration! Happy Anniversary!!!

Nicole - I absolutely loved reading this! Thanks for sharing your story and such fun pictures! Blessings & Congrats on 20 years!

Jamie - What an inspiration! Thank you for sharing your journey. Your family is beautiful!

Jessie - Wow! This really hit home. We are contemplating a move back to Kansas from Denver and I keep looking for *signs* that the move is right for us. This post felt like a sign…..but….it’s KANSAS.

I keep telling myself how hard it was to leave home in the first place. Then, I take an afternoon walk and see those gorgeous mountains and I can’t possibly move back to Kansas. Then my 2-year-old cries b/c he wants his Grandma (in Kansas)…..

Today, your post was my *sign*.

Thank you!

erin - congrats!! Happy 20 years!! I hope my 20 years with my man (we are newlyweds) are just as fulfilling as yours!!

Heather - Precious story! Happy 20th!

Livlife - Hi Meg!

I’m a long time reader, but I don’t comment very often. I just wanted to say that is one of my favorite posts you’ve ever written. I love hearing about your family and the early years and seeing all your old photos. This post just felt so full of love, it was moving and beautiful.

Congratulations on 20 amazing years.

kelly - loved every bit of this. thanks for sharing!! happy anniversary.

Sarah Wolfe - I’d say he’s a keeper, but I bet he thinks the same about you too 🙂 Loved the walk down memory lane and all the pictures. Happy anniversary!

Jenn - I’m crying! That is so awesome. I knew most of your story…but to have the pictures and it all told in one go….just awesome! Congratulations! 20 years is a very big deal.

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long weekend.

September 2, 2014 Filed in family fun,random

i had a lovely weekend.
we worked HARD but had fun too.
we watched Mrs. Doubtfire and stayed up past midnight.
we grilled burgers and brats.  (and i made these turkey spinach &feta burgers for me… YUM)
we shopped at lowes and even the kids liked it!
we went to a HS football scrimmage.
craig made homemade ice cream.
our kids played basketball together.
we sat outside, listening to music on the deck and enjoyed the view.
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i found the biggest grasshopper i have seen in my 38 years of life.

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we had beautiful weather and terrible thunderstorms all in one weekend.

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i got crafty for Camp CREATE.

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we gave away the last of the kittens and are down to just two cats again. 🙂

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i scored the best quilt E V E R at our local thrift shop.
we got take out pizza for dinner…meaning i didn’t have to cook.

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annie and i made bunting past her bedtime.
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i texted with friends i miss a whole bunch.
i finished a book.

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i found out that i REALLY like this premade coffee and i REALLY like this almond coconut milk.

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we went to our favorite pool on the last day it was open for the year.
and played with our new Watershot underwater case for my iPhone… AWESOME!!!
(i will post all the fun pics later this week… SO MUCH FUN!)
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craig and i worked all day saturday and all day monday at the craft house.
yard work and pressure washer and gutter cleaning and painting and furniture moving.
we were so tired.

so i made margaritas.
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this space doesn’t look like much now… but it will.
our swingset used to be here but we gave it away.
we cleared and cleaned and it’s ready for a facelift this week.

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and my sweet husband sold his pool table for me.
it was a little sad to see it go but Craft Weekend just got a little roomier.
(don’t cry for him too long… our new house has a pool table so he can still play)

how was your long weekend?

 

add a comment

Tiffany - What a fun and productive weekend! My favorite kind! I’m excited to see your outdoor facelift! It will be amazing, I’m sure.

Mindy - Beautiful picture of the cornfield and that grasshopper is a big one – what a gorgeous green color he is!

Jenn - I think we should always have Mondays off. Its just nice to really relax on Sunday with no worries of Monday.

Ali - Great weekend ! Can you teach on the blog how to make a bunting !?! Such a great craft !!

Barbara (WA) - Great weekend beginning with dinner with friends and then major work on our office/library, yahoo!! Just wanted to say I immediately noticed the Red & White sign. I have a friend with a huge collection because family members owned one of those groceries.

Angela - Well, my husband is deployed, so my 8-month old son was my date to an out-of-town wedding, and we also did about 5 billion little projects around the house with my lovely grandparents.

In other news, I’ve just started sewing and I made my first bunting. I’d like to make one similar to the ones you and Annie made, but I don’t really have that much fabric. I need to go fabric/remnant shopping, but I’ll probably end up finding a ton I love and buying, you know, all of it. Whoops. 🙂

tasha roe - im so excited for your new adventures at the craft house!!
where did you find the coconut flavored almond creamer?!!!!! I’m kind of twitching over how awesome that would be.

Janet - The craft house is coming along! i love all your photos especially the one of your dog!

Jenny B. - So many lovely photos! 🙂 I am in love with that yellow tray from the thrift store!! I hit one flea market this weekend, and I was on the hunt for a tray, but came home empty-handed. Any chance you want to sell that one?? 😉

danielle - I need to thrift shop more! That quilt is beautiful! Looks like a fun full weekend! We hiked, biked, went to church, and did our first day of school 🙂

Kerri - That is a gorgeous quilt!

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