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Category Archives: birthdays

halfway to seventy!

35

today is my birthday.
it's going to be great because i keep saying "it's going to be great" to myself over and over.
to convince myself.

remember my list i made last october?

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i did GET photoshop….i just didn't learn how to use it yet.
i did make a painting but it wasn't the one i was dreaming of in my head so i don't want to count it.
i did NOT sleep till noon….once i slept till 10:30 and stayed in bed till 11:00.
i did NOT lose ten pounds.  i lost 5 though…that is better than none.
i did NOT learn how to cook pork but crystal b. is helping me on that.
i did NOT go dancing.  BOO.  i should have done this…i love dancing.
i did NOT even once think about painting the trim in the craft room.
i did NOT send my friends b-day cards.  good intentions…..
i did NOT do the weekly meal plans.  that was never going to happen…my brain does not work that way.
i did NOT make peppernuts.  THIS is the christmas.  it has to be.
i DID start to sew a quilt.
i did not paint the laundry room….because we are going to gut it eventually….so yay.
i did NOT take a trip with my sister…but we will travel together in the end of october…so we can count that.
i did NOT go camping in a tent outside.  that is a funny one.
i did NOT host a craft weekend at my house….i still want to….something to work on.
i did NOT do a freezer meal swap.  that is ridiculous.  i have to do that again soon!! 

and even after reading all that i do not feel i have failed.

i DID got to africa.
i DID start running.
i DID give up sugar for 3 months.
i DID spend everyday with my kids all summer.
i DID go down a slip n' slide.

 those things count for at least three things each….right?

i don't think i will make another list.
because my everyday to do list is already so long.
but some times i surprise myself.

today….i am going to have a carmel apple martini WITH MY LUNCH because i want to and i can.
i am thirty-five.
the guy didn't card me at walmart for my spray paint OR my beer.
it's official.
i am all groweds up.

Betsy - You go Girl – 35 is a great time to be alive and well! I am hitting my 50 mark in January….Oh to be 35 again and to know what I know NOW!!! Much joy to you on your special day!

Tara - i love this post.
yay for celebrating the things you DID DO on your list!
you are in deed ALL GROWED UP! 🙂

Lisa Cash - Happy Birthday! Hope it’s a great one!

Trish - Happy Birthday!
You inspire so many and do so with much love and grace.
Happy second half to 70 to you!

Tonya @ More Than Enough - Happy birthday, Meg! I turned 36 on the 18th and celebrated by 12th anniv. the next day. It IS going to be a good year!

Beth - Happy Birthday! Hope it’s a great year! On the meal planning — it is totally not me either. I mean *really* *not* *me*. I’m about as organized as. . . I don’t know, the most unorganized thing you can think of. But, I started doing it a number of years ago and it has made my life SO MUCH EASIER. Maybe you’re just a natural at stocking up on what you need to make meals, but I was always out of something I needed and it was either run to the store AGAIN or eat junk. My newest goal is to include my family in the planning and making, er I mean letting, them cook part of the time. Oh, and camping. In a tent. It’s awesome. I think you might like it 🙂

Liza - Aloha – Many blessings on your day and your ‘new year’. Hau’oli La Hanau ~ happy birthday in Hawaiian ~

Krista - Happy Happy Birthday~ I would say you accomplished a LOT! Awesome…I love looking back at those lists and seeing what can get done over the span of a year. Hope you had a happy day and a yummy martini 🙂

Tanya H - THAT is when I started reading your blog! Someone said something about your list and I came to see. You rock. Happy Birthday and thanks for making the world a little brighter and more fun! So far, 30 is my fave. Don’t see why 35 shouldn’t be too!

Tricia - Happy, happy Birthday, Meg!!!!

Heather - Happy All Growed Up Birthday!!!

Michele - Happy Birthday!

Suzanne - Happy Birthday my virtual friend 🙂

Donna - Happy Birthday!! You are a fabulous 35!!

Jules - Happy birthday Megan! Hope you have a fabby day! I’m a September baby too! Hope 35 is a fantastic year for you and your family! Xx

Daniela - Happy Birthday!

Shelly Primm - happy birthday! i hope you had a fantastic day. i love reading your blog. thank you for sharing your life with so many strangers! 😉

Margo - Happy Birthday!! Welcome to 35 – hope you had a great day!!

Amnah - Happy birthday Meg!!

Elizabeth@BlueClearSky - Happy ‘half way to 70’! I guess that would make me halfway to 90! Now that is painful ;(

Maureen - Megan-
“Don’t make me sing…” hAPPy Birthday to you!!! I am forever in your debt for pointing me to that SNL clip. It is my new favorite and I say it to my family all the time. We just had a family wedding of a niece and I said, “Isn’t this a wonderful party!” in her voice and my 14 year old son cracked up. Anyway since you shared, I will share with you. Download from Itunes, Al Anderson’s song “Trip Around the Sun.” as a birthday treat.A friend put it on a mixed tape years ago for me and now we play it for everyone’s birthday in our family. My daughter just turned 17 on the 27th and I played it from my Ipod while I drove her to school. She said, “Here we go” when I started it but they really get a kick out of it. Happy Birthday, I would kill to be 35 again. Good year.
Maureen

christine - hope you had a memorable day!
happy birthday!

Jacqui - Happy birthday Meg!

Susan - Happy Birthday!

Alma - feliz trienta cinco!You truly are an awseome lady!

Julie - Happy, happy, happy birthday! May your year be blessed!
~Julie

Stephanie - I faithfully read your blog but have never made a comment. Happy birthday! Today is my daughter’s 6th birthday too… I am attempting to make your rainbow cake for her party! Wish me luck!
Hope your day was wonderful 🙂

Leigh - Happy birthday, Meg! I still think your list is great even if you didn’t get to cross everything off. I think your trip to Africa should count for 20. When I first came to your blog, you inspired me to create my own list (31 Things) and it has been fun working on it! Thank you for the inspiration.

peta - happy birthday!
may you continue to be blessed x

Kari - HaPpY BiRtHdAy! I just turned 38 last week. Like my wise friend said, 40 is the new 20 but 38 is just 38. Ha!

Logan - Happy 35th birthday, Megan! Hope you are having a wonderful day. By the way, I am very impressed with all that you did do! Way to go!
PS. Love my Wet n Wild lip glosses. Thanks for the “heads up” on that one!

Nikki in Austin - happy birthday, friend! if you ever visit austin, i’ll take you dancing (that’s one of my favorite, albeit infrequent, things to do too). here’s to hangin’ on to 34 as long as i can. well, six more months anyway. bathe in the blessings of being wooed and extravagantly loved by our awesome Father!

Dave - Looking forward to your movie about your social media web site.
Happy Birthday. You rock!
Chicago Dave

Courtney Walsh - aw, happy birthday, friend! 🙂
hope you have a color-filled day!!

Jennifer De Los Santos - Happy Birthday! We got Kate’s pictures today!!! Haven’t looked on the CD yet, but the printed ones are great. Of course, I wish I looked better/thinner, but it is what it is. Thank you for making me be in the pictures. THANK YOU!

Anessa - Happy Birthday! I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy reading your blog everyday. Love the stories, photos, kind of wish I could be part of your family. Oh and I went to a flea market this past weekend and started my own Santa mug collection inspired by YOU! Thanks so much for such a wonderful blog. Puts a smile on my face 🙂 Again HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Brenna - Happy Birthday to beautiful you!! Yesterday was my birthday and I turned 35!!! I think 35 is the new awesome!!

Tracy Sharlette - Happy Birthday Meg!! I hope you had a beautiful day and hope for the best year ever for you!! How was that martini?

Jennifer - Hope your day is special, Meg!

Heather - Happy Birthday! A crafting weekend sounds so fun. I hope you get to do that one this year. 🙂

Heidi Jo the Artist - Happy Birthday Megan! I hope you have a super awesome birthday! 🙂
Love your lists, maybe because they are so bright, colorful, and happy! I need to make mine more like that…I did eventually make mine: http://swirlsofcreativity.blogspot.com/2010/01/30-things-to-do-before-i-turn-31.html However, I turned 31 in April, so I’m working on getting more done on my list for age 32, still have a ways to go, but I feel I get more accomplished when it is written down.

Simies - Happy Birthday! I love your blog!

Staci - I hope you have a lovely lovely day!!!!! And wow! A caramel apple martini?!!! I have GOT to remember that one 😉 Sounds super delish !

Kasey - Thanks for taking the time to share part of your life with us. Your blog is one of my very favorites! Happy birthday!

Beth @ Dirty Laundry - Mmm, yum, the caramel apple martini sounds like a great way to celebrate! Your list was daunting, and you did so much! Way to celebrate the big AND little things in life. Happy Birthday!

cassi - Happy Birthday! What a great way to plan out things you want to do. Congrats on achieve some of them

sarah - you are so treasured by this community of women…thank you for sharing your struggles and fears and mistakes as well as your creativity and wittiness and triumphs. you manage be to be authentic on the internet–no small feat.
i hope in this next year you know God more than you ever have before.
xoxo

Lauren - Happy BIrthday, Meg! I hope its a fabulous year!!!

Julie - Happy birthday Meg!! How did I not remember you share a birthday with my (now) 6 year old?! I think your martini sounds better than the Hi-C orange drink my son ordered at McDonalds for his birthday lunch. So I just turned 34 not too long ago and when I read today’s post I thought, “Oh, I should make a 35 Things to do Before I’m 35.” Then I kept on reading and now I’m not so sure I want to. There’s enough pressure on me already! Mom to 4 kids, wife to 1 big kid (ha!), and teacher to 24 kidlings. But then making a list may force me to do some things for myself. I don;t really do all that much for ME. I’ll need to think about this.
Anyway, I know I already said it, but I’ll say it again. HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Enjoy YOUR day! 🙂

Allison Y. - Happy Happy Birthday!! Thanks for brightening my day(s) with you happy blog!

Jen - Happy Birthday, Meg!

Daisy Cottage - HAPPY BIRTHDAY MEG!!!!!!!!!!!!!
YOU ARE ADORABLE IN EVERY WAY AND SUCH A BLESSING TO US ALL!!!
HERE’S TO THE REST OF YOUR LIFE…. MAY IT BE ALL YOU DREAM IT TO BE!
xo,
Kim

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - Meg, Happy Birthday!!! You have done so many amazing things! What a great year for you!!

Christina - I remember last year reading that you were turning 34 and that you had this list for before you were 35, and being surprised because I had thought you were older than I am…not because you look older, but because you seemed so much more grown up. 🙂 I just turned 36, and I still feel like I’m 17. Such a child!
Anyway, I hope that your day is wonderful and full of special and fun surprises!!

sarajane - happy birthday! Hope your day is wonderful and relaxing 🙂

gingerbread girl - So did you have a martini??

Lucylu ~ - Happy Birthday! YOU rock!
~~~~~LuLu~~~~~~~

Susan - Happy Birthday from Las Vegas!

tracy - Happy birthday to you,
happy birthday to you,
happy birthday, dear Meg,
happy birthday to you!
it’s just not official unless you have the song!!!
best wishes for a great day and blessed year.
Tracy

Jessica @ One Shiny Star - Happy birthday!
I didn’t know they carded for spray paint?! I’m only 22, and I’ve never been carded for it… I’m not sure what that means!? lol.

pam - Oh, Happy, Happy Birthday, dear Meg. Wish I could hug you today.
I love who you are inside and out and hope today is as special as you are. How could anyone NOT love your sensitive spirit, your compassionate heart, your tears that flow straight from Jesus in your heart, your humorous whit and your beloved artistic gift. YOU are unique and lovely.
Maybe we should have a girls night in a tent? for real. Oh how the laughs would flow in the dark.
Much love, friend. Happy Day.

Sharri - Happy Birthday Megan!

Alisha Gibb - Happy Birthday! Enjoy that martini. Who needs an excuse on their birthday?!

Faith Hope & Cherrytea - HaPpieSt BiRtHdaY!
for today & blessings on your new year :))

Faith Hope & Cherrytea - HaPpieSt BiRtHdaY!
for today & blessings on your new year :))

Valerie - Happy Birthday to someone I don’t know, but feel like I do! Enjoy that martini 🙂

Tina - Happy birthday! You are amazing!

Elise - Happy Birthday!! You’re the greatest and I hope your day is incredible because you absolutely deserve it!

Denise - I hope you have a wonderful day!

Pamela M - Happy Birthday to you. I am a fan of your blog and this is the first time I have written. I am no longer a lurker from this point. tee hee!
In 10 years from now, you will look back and say you were just a baby. Try it, think back 10 years when we thought 25 was old-ish. It works, right?
Have a great birthday. I have to wonder if those precious kids of yours have made “hand made” cards for you!

Jennifer O'Steen - Happy birthday Meg! I hope you have a fabulous day!!

tara pollard pakosta - Happy Happy Birthday, Beautiful, Inspiring, Creative, GEnerous, Loving & KIND Meg! You have done more than you know! Everyday, I come here and am ispired to be a better person, mom, siser, friend etc. You radiate joy, real-ness, love more than anyone I know! Have a fabulous day! I am off to paint a beautiful sheet for my LISTS! I turn 40 next week!!!
hugs!
tara

ann - HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MEG! I hope your day is super and special. I think your blog is awesome as it reflects how awesome YOU are. Best wishes! Hugs, Ann

OnlineSurveyJobs - HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! You went to Africa really or you’re just saying that?

Heather - happy birthday meg! i turned 35 this year too and even though it’s not much different then 34 i feel all growed up, too. 🙂
i hope you enjoy your day. you deserve it!!

mandy friend - Happy Birthday Meg!!! I turn 30 in Dec, and you had inspired me to make a list too….crap I need to look at that! I love reading your blog:)

Sara - Happy Birthday Meg!!

Meredith Salmon - Happy Birthday!!! Enjoy that martini.

Kristy - Happy Birthday Meg! You are my favorite blogger! And regarding the poundage….don’t worry about the number…you ARE running and taking care of yourself. You ARE healthy and beautiful! And you will look back a couple yrs. from now at pictures of when you were 35 and think, “what was I fussing about?….I looked pretty damn good!”. Cheers to you hotness!

AmyB - Happy Birthday!!!

Kristen - Happy Birthday!!!!! You must be special, because it is my birthday too!!!! I love reading you every day….keep up the good work! I am thinking of making a list too……30 things to do by 30. I am 28 today. You are soooo inspiring! (oh, and i also would love to have 5 sweet kids like you too….I have 2 amazing ones of my own) Have a wonderful day!

transparent mama - Happy Birthday. That is a hilarious smorgasbord of a list.

Diana Thompson - Have a wonderful, happy birthday!! I love your blog and your colorful life!!

mel - Happy Birthday Meg!!! Hope you have a wonderful day…enjoy your apple martini, you deserve it 🙂

merlin - Happy Birthday to you.
Thank you for all the sunshine and comfort you bring into my life through your blogging.
Enjoy your celebration.

Joni - HaPpY bIrThDaY, mEg! Hope it’s a BEEYOOTIFUL day for you and your family!
XOXO
Joni

Kacey - Happy birthday! You have accomplished so much – be proud of yourself! 🙂

Molly Pearce - Happy birthday Meg! Hope you have a fabulous year!
~Molly P

Beth Twist - Joining in with all of the other well-wishers… Happy Birthday!
I am rapidly nearing the end of my 35th year, and still have one thing to cross off my list (I gave myself a full year, and not nearly as many to-dos!)… get a tattoo. I figure I can handle natural childbirth, so a little needle action shouldn’t even come close to comparing with the pain I have experienced, right?
I have decided that for my 36th year I want to gain enough blog readers so that my birthday wishes can equal a quarter of yours. 🙂
May God richly bless this new year for you… I know that He will continue to do great things in your life.

stacie - Happy Birthday!! I hope you’re enjoying that martin right now! You are really a neat girl, young thirty five year old. I can’t believe I’m the same age as you … I love reading your blog and seeing all that you do. Here’s what I get from it: you are talented in many ways. you are amazing. you are creative (duh!). you love God. you know what’s most important (faith, family, friends, fotography :)). I’m glad I found you. If you are ever in Columbus, OH call me … I’d love to have you here for a sleepover! For reals. Oh, happy day, Megan!!

elz - Happy Birthday- 35 is going to be great! You can also cross off- Make others’ lives better by writing and posting b/c I love your colorful posts and they always cheer me up/make me think.

carrie - Happy Birthday!! Enjoy that martini!! You deserve it! Have a great day!

linda@limein the coconut - Happy Happy day. But dayum….I’ll be half way to 100 on saturday. Never thought of it that way…..geeeez!

shelly@familyblt - Happy Happy Day of your birth! God danced the day you were born!
Hope your martini is delish!

mel - next month will be my 35th too. kind of freaks me out. i think you’re right though. we’re “all growed up” now. hope you have a wonderful birthday meg! enjoy that martini! 🙂

kristin - happy birthday!!

Janine - Happy Birthday!! Thanks for your awesome blog! September 30th babies rock! I turn 32 today, and I just can’t make one of those lists because I know I would feel bad for not crossing everything off of it. Have a great day and a great year!

RLG - Happy Birthday, Meg!
Gosh, you’re so young. Too young to give up sugar! LOL
Hope you’re having a super fantastic day. Can we see a picture of you with that drink??? xoxo

melissa - Happy Birthday Girl! Enjoy it and live it up…make it a good one!

crystal beutler - Happy Birthday Friend! I’m sending you a birthday present. What’s your address again!
I loved your birthday post by the way. I’m so jealous that you got to go to Africa. How cool is that!

april - Happy Birthday!!! Have 2 martinis!!!! You deserve it!!!!

Rach - Happy Birthday!!! You will love 35. 🙂

Susan - Bonne Anniversaire!
I love your list. Don’t make a new one, just keep knocking things off your old one and change the name to “Things I want to accomplish in the next 10 years”. That’s got to be doable yea?

The Lady of the House - Awesome! I was thinking the same thing about the slipnslide thing – You rock girl! Happy Birthday and Enjoy that cocktail with your lunch, doll. You DESERVE it!!!!

Lisa - Have a great birthday!!!!

carissa... brown eyed fox - hAppY biRthDaY to you…
hAppY biRthDaY to you…
hAppY biRthDaY dear MEGGGGGGGGG…
hAppY biRthDaY to YOUUUUUUUUU!
… and many morrrrrre!
just so you know… i sang that outloud too! :O)
big ‘ol hugs & buckets of wishes to YOU! ♥

Jamie - Happy 35th! Enjoy your day!

Denise - Happy Birthday! I hope your day is very blessed.

Art Cant Hurt - sounds like a plan! enjoy yourself!

Robin H Allen - Happy Birthday….
35 is still VERY young…I just turned 50 and wish I had made a list at 35 so that very nearly all of it would be crossed off by now…You have MUCH to be thankful for..you are so clearly multitalented and God smiles on you frequently…and in turn you share the blessings with us your faithful followers…
Color your days and don’t get too worried about staying in the lines…
check out my daughters blog…sohappytogetherforever.blogspot.com she and you share alot of common things…
Have a great day!!

se7en - Oh Happy Birthday!!! You did SO VERY MUCH MORE than your list!!! Hope your next 35 years are just as fun!!!! September is clearly the month to have a birthday!!! Lots of love!!!

Mary Ferrara - Happy Birthday Meg! I just love your list, and this blog is one of my faves. You rock Meg! Hope you have an amazing day!

Dana@Bungalow'56 - Ah… to be so young. Enjoy it. Really, really enjoy it. That is all I have to say.
Dana

Suzette - I’ve got you beat by 10 years (and it stinks!). I was 35 when I gave birth to my one and only child so you’ve already outdone me by four of God’s gifts!!! Have a splendid, joyous day! And thanks for making my day every time you post!

Allison - Happy Birthday funny girlie! Love ya!

Dineen - Happy Birthday Meg! Thanks for making me smile every day!

Sugar Mama - You Go you 35 year young Girl!
Enjoy that martini! (I miss being carded)

Amanda - Happy Birthday – love your new header!!

Cindy Trudo - Happy Birthday! Hope it’s happy. You have such a lovely life on this little blog. Your happiness and candidness is so inspiring. I know you will be blessed by sharing with others what you have been given. 🙂
Cindy

Lisa - Happy birthday, Meg! 35 was a wonderful year for me as I had a new baby boy to love. Now he is 6 and all growed up like you. 🙂 Enjoy your day!

Katie - Happy Birthday! My birthday was this past Saturday, and I turned 36, so we’re about a year apart!
Thanks for the song you posted a few days ago. I listened to it over and over and over again especially through a rough Monday. Here’s another song that has really been a blessing to me lately: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AH4rC4oPfoU Maybe you’ll like it too.

jennifer - Happy Birthday! Enjoy your day!!!!

Sandy - Happy Birthday, Meg! You deserve to be treated like a queen today. I do remember your list from last year and I started one for myself….45 things to do before I’m 45 (February 2011)….I’m still having trouble coming up with 45 things so you are WAY ahead of me!! I should get back to the list though, I can probably think of some new things since it’s been set aside for awhile.
Enjoy being 1/2 way to 70!…better than 1/2 way to 90! yikes

Auntie Susan - Happy Birthday, Meg!

Missy - Happy Birthday! My birthday is tomorrow!(34- maybe I should make a 35 before 35 list??!?!?) Last year I cried for most of my birthday for no other reason than I always have expectations that my birthday is going to be super fabulous… and it wasn’t. It was pretty normal- always is, and yet for some reason I am always surprised and let down by this fact. Weird, I know. Well, I hope we both have a fabulous birthday this year! 🙂
I love spray paint too- just spray painted a spooky Halloween wreath for my front door. I posted it yesterday on my blog- check it out if you want!

Marisol Avila - Happy Birthday Beautiful! Hope you have a blessed year! You deserve the best – thanks for sharing your life with all of us!

Dana Banana - I will make peppernuts with you!! Plan on it.

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - Well girlie I hope you have THE best day evah. You’re a young one! Live it up and tell us all about it:)

Kelly - Happy Birthday Meg! Today is my birthday as well! (32) Hope you have a WONDERFUL day!!!!

Lindsay - HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I hope you have an awesome day! Have you heard of Lynda.com? It has tutorials on all things Photoshop and more. I think there’s a monthly cost, but it would definitely help you learn it! Good luck!

brantlee - Happy Birthday Meg! Hope you have a great day!

Vera - HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MEG!!!!!!!!!!!

Kristi - you rock! have a great day!

Stacy Christy - Happy Birthday Meg!! I can only hope I’m as fabulous as you are when I’m 35! Have a wonderful day!

Brice - Happy Birthday. We still love our pictures from last fall.
And I just had to comment that you can’t “make a painting.” That is what a craft person would do. An artist paints or creates, not makes. 🙂

Cori - Happy Birthday, you’re so young! Have a great day. btw I made your Apple Bar recipe this weekend after picking apples with the family. Now my dh requested that for his birthday cake!

bobbie - Happy Birthday! You are entering 35 with grace and style.. and a carmel apple martini

Routhie - Happy birthday! I love the new Whatever photo at the top too. Many happy returns. <3

Jodi - Happy Birthday Meg!

a pocket full of posies - Happy! Happy!! Birthday!!! 35 IS great!!!
Have a wonderful day!!
Many Blessings!
Jill

Lisa - Happy happy birthday! Thanks for introducing me to the summer list, crescent chicken, Hillboro, the Marion barn sale, Crazy Love, COLOR and so many other great things in this year of your life. (What is it with pork anyway? It taunts me. I have given up.) Hope you have a wonderful day!

Shauna - such a big girl!
thank you for sharing parts of your big girl life with us.
i am glad you were born.

Heather - You’ve done so much. Good for you! A very Happy Birthday – YOU are great.

Ashlee Archibald - LOL! I love your blog title!
Happy Birthday Sweet Meg! Enjoy your day, and your apple martini! You are such a hard working Momma and deserve nothing but the best! xoxox

Debby - Happy Birthday! Hope you have a wonderful day. And thank you for brightening mine!!

Rachel - You did LOTS!
And keep in mind there are decades left for you to cross of the rest of the items on your list. DECADES…
Happy Birthday!

Ali - HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my favorite blogger! Thanks for making me laugh, inspiring me, and helping me feed my family (i LOVE your recipes.)

Tyler - Happy Birthday! I am a new follower and just wanted to say you inspire me everyday:)

Tammy - Happy Birthday Meg!! You are an amazing woman who inspires so many each day!

Wendy - Happy Birthday Meg! You’ve done more in your 35 years than I have in my 41. You are awesome and you should give yourself credit for all you’ve accomplished! 🙂

Kimberlee J. - Maybe you can have a caramel apple tini next week, too.
Love ya!

angela carter - happy birthday!

Sara - Happy Birthday to You!!! We should all congratulate ourselves on our accomplishments, love that you are celebrating what you HAVE done, not dwelling on the other things! PS. Love the new whatever banner. 🙂

Kathi - Happy, happy birthday, CHICA! You always brighten my day, wishing I could brighten yours. Have a wonderful celebration and enjoy the next half to 70!

Laura - I will make and drink a margarita in your honor and celebrate the fabulous YOU!
I LOVE YOU
YOU ARE A GIFT FROM GOD
I WILLL PRAISE THE DAY YOU WERE BORN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOX

Nicole Q. - Happy Birthday! You have touched so many lives with your thoughts, your creativity, your honesty, and your passions! Hope your day is full of beauty and your carmel martini is DELICIOUS!!! Take an extra long sip for me and dance in your living room! :))
(Today in my mother in law’s birthday too!)

jennibell - Happy, happy birthday!!! I love the list. . .it’s good to have goals. How did you make it so colorful and with all the different fonts? It might be more fun to have one if it was done up pretty like that 🙂 I love that you accomplished so much…and many things that weren’t on the list too — yea! We would be awesome neighbors I think 🙂 Have a great day and enjoy your martini at LUNCH. . .it’s the little things, huh?

Sarah @ Dream in Domestic - Happy birthday, Meg! I think you still accomplished a lot…that was a long list and a year is only so many days.

Kait - Happy birthday Meg!

Robin - happy birthday 🙂

Katie - Happy Birthday! Personally I think you did a lot plus the everyday things you do and being a mom of 5! Thanks so much for the art website…I glanced over it last night and it looks so fabulous! I can’t wait to see my kids try some of it! They are at such precious ages and I want to capture it. Blessings to you today!

lorel - have a great day Meg! love you! Happy Birthday!

alamama - Happy Birthday! Enjoy!

Krista - Happy Birthday Megan! You put a huge dent in your “TO DO” list already, plus all those other awesome EXTRA things that came up along the way. You can only plan for so much, you have to allow for chance too. Have a wonderful birthday, I am jealous about your lunchtime martini. Do you have a lunch date?

Amy - Happy Birthday Meg!! Enjoy your day!!!

jennifer - Happy Birthday!
Martini’s at lunch will make any day great, if you ask me.

Laurie - Happy Birthday! I love your blog! I am a whopping 2 days older than you. Turning 35 has been rough! I made a list too 🙂 Have a great day!

LobotoME - Happy Birthday Meg! Wishing you many more years filled with health, happiness & adventure! xo, jenny

maria - Happiest Birthday Wishes Meg!!

Keri @ Keri's Korner - Happy birthday!!K

linda - happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday deaaaarrrrrrrr meeeeeegggggggg, haaaapppyyyyyy birrrrttttthhhhdddaaayyyyy tooooooo yoouuuuuuuuuuu…hope you have a wonderful day…find time to relax and enjoy and celebrate YOU!!! 🙂

Gevay - Happy Birthday! Thanks for sharing your life with us! Hope 35 is an awesome year!

Nancy from the Chicago 'burbs - Happy Birthday Meg. I hope your day is fantastic. Thank you for your blog. I love your honesty, humor, and beautiful pictures.

Cassie - happy happy birthday miss meg!!!!
love you!
wish i were having an apple martini with you over lunch today! 🙂

tasha roe - Happy, Happy Birthday!!
What an exciting year!
have a great bday!

Holly - Happy Birthday Meg!

Emily@remodelingthislife - Happy birthday Meg! I like that you made a list of the things you did do.
Hope this next year is just as full as the last!
xoxo

Gemma - Happy Birthday Meg!!!
I hope you have a great day. Take lots of pictures so you can share them with us : )
Gemma x

amy jupin - i am proud of you.
what a year of accomplishments!
happy birthday megan!

Micah - Happy Happy Birthday!

elizabeth of course - HAPPY BIRTHDAY !!!!! You have the prettiest birthday list I’ve ever seen!

jodi @ back40life - Happy, happy birthday Meg! Hope it’s the best one ever!

Janet Biernacki - HAPPY 35th BIRTHDAY!!
When I turned 36, I liked that number so well, I stayed on it for 4 years! But I’m long past that now and can honestly say, being 52 is just as sweet.
You are a joy to read, and see your photos. I know some days you question your sanity, and parenting. Hang on little momma, you’re doing just fine. I know it’s crazy days, but they don’t last forever.
I am flying from Kansas to Indiana today in honor of a delightful friends 50th birthday today, also. I shall raise a toast you both this evening.
May you have cake, and joy.

Vicki - Happy Birthday Meg!! Hope it’s a great one!! 🙂

Angela B. - Happy Happy Birthday!

Amy Lynne - Happy Birthday! I’ll be joining you at 35 in February! I hope you do have a great day and a great year!

Chaos-Jamie - Happy Birthday, Meggie! 35 isn’t sooooo bad…yet. 😉 No, it WON’T be!

FeFe - Happy Birthday to YOU, MEG…my favorite blogger! I had to laugh at the spray paint comment. I was a little disappointed the other night when they didn’t card me for mine. Hope you have a fantabulous day!

carolyn - happy birthday. you are such a sweetie. you make me smile and even cry sometimes. xo

tami - Happy Birthday dollface!

Cindy Ashmore - Happy Birthday Meg!

Lisa - I hope you have a wonderful birthday Meg!! Your list inspired me to make my own because I think everyone should have goals, no matter how silly. If we didn’t have anything to strive for, the monotony of motherhood might just drive us crazy!!

Lane - Happy Birthday! I say you accomplished A LOT!!!! Congrats!!! My birthday was last Monday and I’d like a caramel apple martini too! Where in the world can I get one?! I’ve never even heard of one!!
Have a great day!

pam - Happy Birthday! Perhaps to help you celebrate 35 even more…I’ll share where you’re NOT. In the 50’s you might look at the title of this post…. halfway to seventy…..and be stupified because you might not have a clue what the answer is. Okay to be fair it’s early in the morning…I’m sure I would have known the answer MUCH faster if it was noon. I’m not sure I could think of 35 things to do. Hope your day is GRAND and that the Martini goes down smooth.

Gwyn Rosser - Happy, happy birthday to YOU!!!!! Keep on makin’ those lists. It’s what will keep you young. For real. I totally believe that. Having goals gets you “out there” and that’s a very good thing.
Enjoy your day. Blessings,
Gwynie Pie
The Pink Tractor
http://www.gwynrosser.blogspot.com

julia - Happy Birthday!
I’m old enough to be your babysitter.

Tracy - Happy birthday Meg! You could look at it this way…you are 29 with 6 years experience, that is how I look at it and I am turning 38 this year. Being older and wiser (he! he!) I can say that 35 isn’t bad, it is another number and you are only as old as you feel. You have accomplished enough and more than you set out to do. I have a daily list and a project list and while I know I will never accomplish everything it is fun to try…it gets all the “extra” stuff out of my brain so I can focus on what is important.
Hope you have a wonderfull amazing day!

Jen@thecottagenest - Happy half way to seventy Meg! I loved reading your last years list. I loved it’s whimsy and randomness. That’s my kind of list. I hope you have a wonderful day.

Lisa - Happy birthday! So many wonderful things that you DID cross off your list. Going to Africa has got to be worth much more than three.
When I read the title I spun out a little. I am 35 in a few months and thinking that is half way to 70 – wow that crazy! Now I must revisit my list to see how many I have crossed off. MMM

Denise - Happy Birthday Meg!!! Thanks for making our world more colorful & pretty! Enjoy your day 🙂

tara - ah to be 35 again!! you are beautiful.
happy birthday dear meg!
oxox

lorelei - Happy Birthday Meg! ROCK ON!!

Teresa - Happy Birthday! I pray that God continues to bless you with happiness and good health!

tam - Happy Birthday!!! I hope you have a fantastic day! my 35th is right around the corner….eeek.

Shann - Happy birthday! 🙂

Tracy - Happy birthday, Meg! Have a great day my friend! 35 is a just a number so yes, it is will be GREAT for sure! Enjoy that Apple Martini with your lunch! Big hugs! xoxoxo :o)

Sandy - Happy birthday Meg! This is my first comment ever – but I’ve read your blog everyday in the past few months (and I love it!). Lots of hugs all the way from Sydney, Australia!!

Kat - Happy birthday fabulous, fun, inspiring, colourful, real and beautiful Meg!!
I hope you have a wonderful day, enjoy your martini, get to eat lots of cake and dance sometime soon.
Cheers to you 🙂

Kirsten J - Happy Birthday, sweet girlie!!! And…*ahem*…I just turned 1/2 way to 98, if that’s any concillation….
Did I just admit that??????????????

Widge - Happy Birthday!!!!!!
I turned halfway to 60 this year and I’m still trying not to freak out 😉
Your list is fab

angela - Oh, have a BEAUTIFUL day!!! Happy Happy Birthday to a wonderful blogger!!!!

edie - Looks like a great year Meg! You sure have made mine brighter. Thanks for all the rainbow inspiration that you bring. And yay for you on the martini at lunch. Can you fit the dancing in then too?
hugs and happy happy day!
edie

Patti - Happy birthday! Thanks for being born so you can be around to make all of our lives a little happier each day…just by doing what you do! 🙂

Julie - Happy Birthday Meg! Make it GREAT!

leonie - Happy birthday, I too turned 35 this year, I started a list, boy my list is LONG!!! too long I think….. but I already have two things ticked and I have been 35 for two whole months….. also my things are very BIG and I want them done before I turn the dreaded 40….. so I have a while… hope you have a fabulous day Leonie xx

Wendi Siyajuck - Happy Birthday!!

Anja - Happy birthday! Have a wonderful day, lunch martini and all… 😉

Sarah W., Oregon - Today (the 30th) is my 35th birthday too!! I’ve been feeling weird about it, but sharing it with you makes it just a bit easier. I asked my husband if I’m middle aged now (he’s younger.) he said not quite, but almost. Blah. Regardless, I thank our Lord for another year of life and health and joy. Happy B-Day!

Ruth - happy birthday wonderful lady!!

laurenjean - happy birthday !Thanks for being AWESOME!!

Catriona - You are just 5 weeks younger than me which means our lives have run (sort of) paralell-I like that! Have a great day filled with treats. x

Sonia - Happy Birthday!!

Jeannine - Happy Birthday Meg!
I’m sorry I don’t comment often, but I LOVE reading your blog!
Hope you have a wonderful day =)

Four Flights - Happy Birthday Meg! I think the things you did do, especially the Africa part, counts for 5 times that. And I don’t blame you for not making another list. I’ve seen quite a few of these lists floating around Blogland and it just seems really overwhelming to me.

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10

how can this be?
how can my sean….my sparkle eyed boy…my third child…my BABY…be 10??

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i did not go to the work of scanning these…i just photo-ed his baby book.

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and now?
his feet are bigger than mine.

his mind is complex and detailed.
he has an amazing mind.

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we are close…he likes to talk to me.
i love that.
 
he has requested an ice cream cake and his birthday list is filled with things that are too expensive.

happy birthday to my little man.
 
 
           

Kelly - happy birthday, Sean! I requested an ice cream cake for my birthday last year! yum! hope it’s yummy. Kelly

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - Happy birthday Sean!

Alaina - Happy birthday Sean from all these crazy people who love to follow your mom’s blog that you’ve never met!!! I hope you had a super great day!
Is that Lauren holding him? She looks just like Talby!!!!!!

shelly @familyblt - Happy day you were born, Sean!!!

katy - Oh, that’s sweet! Happy b-day to Sean.

Mindy Harris - beautiful boy. Happy 10th, Sean.

benson - I remember when “baby” Peter turned ten–we kept telling him not to get any older…that this was fine…that he could always be ten. It’s a wonderful age (btw–he’s 23 now and still baby Peter and we still think he’s wonderful)

Ruth - happy birthday sean! he seems like such a cool guy 🙂

Deputy's Wife - Ten years ago I must have been going into the hospital as you were coming out. My oldest will be ten in a few short days. All I remember that summer is that it was hot. Plain old hot.
Happy Birthday!!!

Lynda - congratulations Sean!!! What is it with these children? my oldest girl is twelve and wil leave school within one and a half weeks……how come??? what happened???? and now???;)

Rhonda - Oh, they grow up too fast. Love the pictures.

tara pollard pakosta - Happy Birthday Sean!!!
He seems like a very sweet and amazing persoN!
tara

Rachel Johnston - WOW double figures!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SEAN 😀 have a superb day 😀

Heather @ Cookie Mondays - Sean is the coolest! 🙂

Charisse - Happy Birthday from another Kansas mom! My little Tate turns 4 today and our Matt, who went to be with the Lord almost 8 years ago, would have been 11 today. Blessings on your day!

amy d - happy birthday sean!!!! hope your having a great day!
amy & miley

Sandy - Happy Birthday, Sean! It always amazes me how much grown up kids still look like they did when they were a baby. Blessings to all of you!

Julie K. - I totally forgot that our boys share a birthday! Happy birthday Sean!

Kelly - Happy birthday Sean!

Staci - HAPPY BIRTHDAY SEAN!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sweet sweet boy 😉

Gemma - Happy Birthday Sean..have a great one : )
Gemma X

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - My baby is 10 too. It chokes me up a bit. Happy birthday to your Sean:)

Krista - Happy Birthday to your sweet boy!!

Laura Phelps - I just wrote on my own blog today how much I LOVE THIS KID!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My Dew Dew Dude is TEN!
Happy Birthday Sean…
thanks for trying to teach Luke how to play the piano…I know that wasn’t easy…
thanks for making me my very own comic…
you are a great kid!!
I hope your mom gets you everything on your too expensive list!

se7en - So big so fast!!! I hope ten is totally fun!!!

Jennifer - Happy Birthday Sean!!!

heidi @ wonder woman wannabe - what a handsome guy! The baby pics are all ADORABLE – I’ve got a five year old that shows promise of being a life-time mama’s boy – I’ll take it! 🙂

Megan - What a cutie! Happy Happy day to your big boy!

shelly - Happy Birthday! Our oldest turned 10 in May. I can’t believe the size of his Feet!!! My little snuggle bug is now to big to fit on my lap (not that he’d want to! Mooooom..eyes rolling)

Leah in FL - Happy Birthday, Sean! Meagan, you are blessed … but you know that. :o)

Rita - I want to say what a beautiful boy but I must also say what a handsome young man. HAPPY BIRTHDAY! You are both lucky to have each other.

Niki - Happy Birthday, Sean! You are my kind of kid with that Ice Cream Cake request! They are the best! Have an awesome day!!

tami - My son is 10 as well, he is very handsome! I cant get any suga anymore now!

Lori - What sweet pictures! Happy Birthday. Oh, and take my word for it, their lists get even more expensive as the years go by. 🙂

Heather R. - Happy Birthday, Sean. (That is my brother’s name :))

angela - Happy Birthday to your boy!!!! What a handsome young man. Boys and their moms have a special bond.

LouBoo - Hi – ohh now that is such a sweet post. The picture of him as a baby with his big sister I presume? That is just precious. Happy birthday to your ‘babe’ not so much a baby anymore. Lou x

Holly - Happy Birthday Sean!

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twelve.

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my boy getting tickled for trying to be too cool in his picture.  :)
he is major ticklish.

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he had a birthday weekend.
party on saturday….some gifts on sunday…then his actual birthday on monday.
he got basketball everything.
he loves to play.

he invited a bunch of boys to go bowling. 


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here is something new to birthday parties in 2010.
cell phones.
we had never seen them at a birthday party for any of kids.
the times are a changin'…

scott still doesn't have one.
i just don't see why they need them?
but i am clearly in the minority….
 


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then he was ambushed with silly string when we got home.
boys boys boys….crazy all the time.

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happy birthday scott.

tami reed - Happy Birthday Scotty!

gabrielle - Oh Meg….I hear you. My eldest turns 12 on May 26th, she is having a pool party with her soccer team and everyone of them have a cell phone..my daughter is the only one without….I know she wants one because everyone has one but really Why..so they can text each other when they are sitting right next to one another….so we are holding out…..

Jesse Peak - I LOVE having boys! So much fun all of the time! Happy belated birthday to your boy!

Elizabeth - I agree with you on the cell phone thing. When my older son turns twelve in July, I MIGHT feel the issue out, but why? is right! On another note, my son Oliver turned nine on Monday, too! Happy Birthday to our beautiful boys!

MS Scientist - @Flower patch girl: I think its sad that younger people won’t know about pay phones. I always used to have to carry a couple of quarters in my bus pass wallet, just in case! I hope I can hold off on getting the cell phone. My kid is just 6 and doesn’t need one or even ask for one yet. But I know that my DH is a pushover… we’ll see!

Amy - Looks like a fun birthday party, I wanna go bowling now! 🙂 I am loving checking out your blog…lots of great pictures here!
My 9-year old niece got a cell phone a while back, it is absloute craziness to me…her mom doesn’t work, they live in a small town…ummm really? I think kids are growing up way too fast these days and although cell phones in and of themselves are not “bad” they definitely contribute to the whole growing up too soon thing.

Flower Patch Farmgirl - Just say no to the phones!
Calvin saw a pay phone up close last week and was entirely perplexed. In explaining it to him, I told him that you put a quarter in it to call someone (it’s probably a dollar, by now…) and he cracked up, thinking I was teasing him! “You don’t put MONEY in a PHONE!” I don’t think he had ever even seen a phone with a cord before.
Oy.

elizabeth pilling - amen to holding off on the cell phones. keep em’ young longer.

Amber - Looks like an awesome time! And your chocolate-iced cake looks yummy!!! I can’t stand the cell phone thing. That’s all you see anymore – tweens texting. Annoys me just slightly. 🙂

Anya - I can NOT believe they are 12 year olds (or thereabouts) they look older. What is it with kids these days. What are we feeding them????

Beth - Looks like a great b-day! I think I’ve said this before, but our 3 girls have one cell phone that they share (that will probably change when Erin goes to college in the fall) and the phone has had texting disabled. Our middle daughter writes me an essay every birthday/christmas/etc. saying why they should be allowed to have texting. She also uses the “you don’t trust us” arguement as often as she can. Doesn’t work. I don’t see the point. I’m ok with having a phone when they’re out late or something, but I don’t get the texting.

Dianne Avery - I absolutely LOVE the last picture with all the boys. You must frame that for his room. He will treasure that always. Looks like a great weekend. You did good Mom. 🙂

linda lou - meg guess we share having a baby during the week of mother’s day…poor amy she had to share her bday with her grandma c that’s in heaven now, mother’d day and her b day until she stood up for herself and said i want to celebrate my b day all alone (: well ok missy…so we don’t combine anymore. tell scott i would like a piece of that chocolate cake hahaha ):

Jodi - Happy Birthday! My little firecracker shares the same birthday! She just turned 2!

amy jupin - 12? wow. scott and craig are total twinbos! if those boys are as goofy as mine are, i bet you guys had fun bowling! happy bday scott!

Melanie - Happy birthday to Scott!
He is adorable!

Kasey - My mom is the same way about the cell phone. I will be getting mine soon (I have to pay for it myself, though). She felt that I didn’t need one if I was always with her. She is giving in now but, of course, the condition is that I pay for it myself. She says that I will appreciate it more if I get it that way. Luckily, I’ve saved enough. 🙂
Happy birthday to your boy! Looks like a fun time.

Lisa - I am in full support on your stance regarding cell phones. My oldest just turned 11 last week and is fairly emphatic that he is need of a cell phone. Some of his friends have had them for 2+ years. Thankfully, his best buddy who lives next store does not so his mother and I have formed a solidarity pact against them…for now. Happy 12th to Scott! Too bad I can’t call him on his cell phone and tell him myself… 😉

tara pollard pakosta - I think they only need them if they are in activities and are old enough to be waiting for you by themselves, ONLY in emergencies. our daughter had one for a brief period of time when she was 9, but it was more cause it was an extra and nobody was using it. she didn’t really use it either though!!!
happy birthday to your boy!
tara

Dana Banana - I agree with the not needing a cell phone at 12. I know where you are…..school or home, you don’t need a phone.

Nicole Q. - I love boys!!! I’m in the minority with you on the cell phone thing. Loved your last post too on Mother’s Day stuff!

Michele Renee - The birthday looked fun and happy despite lack of cell phone! And I could sink my teeth into that choc cake!
My oldest will soon turn 14, next is age 12 and next boy is age 9.5
One year ago we did get an extra cell phone which we call the white phone (it’s white). Either of the older two boys take it with them on weekends if we drop them off at a skateboarding place or if they ride bikes to a park nearby. Then it comes out of their pocket and they plug it back in the charger at home.

Sheryl - I am SOOO in the minority with you Meg! Cell phones cause trouble when they are too young to have them!

Amanda - oh my goodness these boys are growing up. I love seeing several of my former students. I would have to say that I think Scott has some GREAT friends. Cell phones, wow. Man, what will the kids have when our kids are 12???

se7en - Man, that string photo is awesome!!! Happy Birthday!!!

Pam - My little guy (yep I still call him that) turned 12 on Sunday. Can’t believe it! He is also one of the few on earth with no cell phone. He did get some new sunglasses, it’s hilarious his attitude totally changes when he wears them. We call him “Cool Shade Boy”!
Love your blog!!

julia - “everyone” has a cell phone except my 12 year old. good to know there is actually one other 12 year old that doesn’t have one.

katy - Good for you not letting him have a cell phone yet! My parents didn’t let my siblings or I have a cell phone until we were driving, and even then it was only to be used for communicating while we were out with the car, not while we were home with the family. I’m hoping I can do the same with my little girls, but who knows, As my oldest is only two things may be much crazier by then!

Ansley - Scott is SO CUTE!! happy birthday!

shelly - I can’t even imagine 12! Our oldest will turn 10 next week and I’m super struggling!!! (He’s having his first slumber party…do they call it that with boys?!?…oh man, I feel old!)

gina - I’m being stubborn on the whole cell phone issue too. She thinks she needs one RIGHT NOW! She’s 11. Not gonna happen. We don’t know exactly when it will happen. Just know that she won’t be getting one any time soon.
Also, we rarely let our kids get pop at restaurants either. It’s especially difficult when the families you are out with let their kids get pop.
The abuse our kids endure! I hope they turn out “normal”! ‘Cuz the are suffering so greatly! Ha!

Georgia - Happy birthday Scott!!!
He is the spitting image of his dad…

Molly Pearce - Happy Birthday Scott!! Your cakes looks delish!!! Looks like he had a fabulous time with his friends!
~Molly P

purejoy - avoid cell phones until you can’t anymore. sigh.
twelve. such a fun age. seriously. on the brink of manhood and yet still a kid. love it.
he’s so handsome!
thanks for sharing the celebration (how nice of you to share your special day!)

Beth K. - I have a 12 year old boy and he does not have a cell phone or ipod or anything really for that matter. We did just get a Wii for Christmas (a gift from grandparents). I feel like I am becoming my mother when I say “It is not necessary” to a lot of things – but they are just not necessary. I love reading your blog – brightens my day everyday.

Laura Phelps - I laughed when I saw TWELVE…only because of my post FOUR.
Our boys are growing.
And my eleven year old boy would fit right in with that group of boys.
And no, there would be no cell phone in his handh
It is an on going argument..I keep telling him,”But Jack…I am always with you!!! WHo are you going to need to call????”
He will get a cell phone, when he can pay the bill.
happy birthday to your cute cute boy!

Trish - My cousin’s friend has an iphone and she is in second grade. seriously… perspective people!

Tracy - Looks like Scott had a lot of fun for his birthday weekend! Love the pictures as always! :o) Regarding cell phones – my kids each have one due to my husband and I being over an hour away from them at work every day and they are both in athletics and stay after school sometimes, etc. So it is mainly for safety purposes but they do play on them a lot – which doesn’t bother me but it bothers my husband terribly. I don’t care as long as we are not trying to do some family thing – then it REALLY bothers me! But, at Scott’s age – I see no reason to have them that early either. So you are not alone! ;o)

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - Awww looks like lots of boy fun! My kids won’t have cell phones for a long long time. Not until they NEED them. And I can’t imagine why they would NEED one;)

Sarah@Clover Lane - Oh, the cell phone dilemna. Nothing but trouble and wasted time as far as I’m concerned.
Look like you had a great time…your cakes always look so delicious!

tess s. - scott is a carbon copy of your husband. incredible!
as far as the cell phone’s go… my kids are 3, nearly 2 and still growing in the womb. i have a long time before i can offer up any advice on that topic.

Kristi - I think that if your child is with you most of the time, they probably don’t need one. Our 11 year-old daughter has one. We let her go out into the neighborhood to walk to her friends’ houses and she goes to a tween skate park on Friday nights. Because of this, she has a cell phone. Whether parents decide to let their child have one or not, I don’t think either side should judge the other. It seems a lot of the time, the parents who allow cell phones get judged for doing so. I think that’s pretty sad.

Leah in FL - Our kiddos get cell phones when they get their driver’s license. Try not to feel pressured in to providing them cell phones before you feel they need them. Go with your gut, Megan. God has given you the wisdom you need to be their Mom. :o)

Susan - I don’t understand the whole cell phone thing either and I grew up in that business when we had car phones before cellular service ever happened. My daughter will be 10 in July and she is asking for one. We home school so she is NEVER away from me except at select friend’s. She does not need one and she won’t be getting one either. I’m sure I’m totally out of touch…oh well.

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happy birthday!

yesterday.

my sister's birthday was yesterday and i forgot to send her birthday greetings on the blog!
shame shame….

well, lorel i went searching for a picture of you to use.
i came across this one first.
one of my FAVorites.
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i miss you.
i think you have one of the best laughs in the world.

my sister plays the washboard.
she loves zydeco music.
and dancing.

then i found this set of pictures:
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ice cream at bread basket…
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eating it on the steps of the historical society…
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i love all these pics.

my sister is an art teacher.
she majored in ART in college.
i think that is really amazing….most people don't even draw…and she majored in it!
 
 
        
she is loved.
by me and our family.
and her family and her friends.

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then i found these.
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thank goodness there is not video footage of that night.

we always have a good time together.
always.

i can't wait for our trip that we have to take before i turn 35.
i put it on the list so IT MUST BE DONE.
you should put it on your list so it really MUST be done if we both have it.

ok….i WILL call you today.
i love you.
forever.

happy birthday to the best big sister.
i wish i could hug you today.

(ps…those pee wee herman quotes last week…they were just for you.  i knew you'd love that!) 
 

 
 
   

purejoy - how fun to have a sister. one of life’s most precious gifts. i heart mine, too. she’s 9 years older and one of my best friends, even though we live 700 miles apart. :'(
and any girl that likes pee wee is a friend of mine. i love him even though he’s kind off…
anyways, enjoyed my visit here as usual!!!
enjoy this journey you are on… savor every moment, even the preparation.

Jessica Reed - Hey, I love you blog, and was kind of bummed because when I clicked on your most recent entry its a dead link. Maybe it’s just me, I’m using blogger.

Sara Cameli - I totally knew those pee wee’s were for Lorel, I cracked up and could hear it in my head. hee hee.

Kate - Oh, you guys are so cute! Meg, you look beautiful in that pic!!

chasity - you and your sister have beautiful smiles.

thebluemuse - Having a sister is the best, a built-in best friend for life! The bubble picture is my favorite, too…makes me think of warm, lazy summer nights.

candace - Yay for big sisters and happy birthdays and blurry nights of having fun!

Heather R. - I have two girls…they are fun loving sisters like you two. I hope she was spoiled on her birthday and I know she’ll love your post. ~Heather R.

Kelly - Happy Birthday to your sister! I especially like the bubbles pic! Kelly

Whitni - Hey totally random but would it be okay if I used some of your 365 pictures in my new blog header. Not like of your children or anything just like the polka dot rain boots and that colorful quilt. I tried to find your email address but my computer didn’t do anything when I clicked on your email me link. Your pictures are always so beautiful! Just let me know! Thanks!
Whitni

DreamGirlLisa - What a nice present for your sis…sistes are the best!

Dana D @BoysMyJoys - HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LOREL!
Meg~ I almost choked on my dinner tonight as I flipped thru my just purchased copy of Flea Market Style… and it’s all your fault!!! Congratulations of being featured in the new magazine! That is awesome!

Beth - Oh! And happy birthday Lorel!! I’m an art teacher too 🙂

Beth - I think I told you this before, but my older sister and I went on a trip together to Canada for her 50th birthday. It was so much fun. You should definitely go on a trip with her, just the two of you. I wish there WAS video footage of those pictures of you dancing. Looks like too much fun!

susan - how sweet! great pics 🙂 happy birthday to you sister!

Courtney Walsh - so sweet. I seriously miss my sister since she moved to Georgia. I was thinking the other night that I never laugh–like truly, really, belly laugh with anyone else!
I wish my girl had a sister. 🙁
but not enough to try for #4!! lol
Sweet post!

sarah - Happy Birthday Lorel!

Tracy - Aww… happy birthday to your sister and what great pictures! I miss my sister too but she’s my “baby” sister. Thanks for sharing! :o)

Staci Danford - Such fun pictures and such kind words.. Any sister would be tickled over to have someone say such nice things (and mean them)…. Made me wish I had a sister for sure..
Staci

lorel - Oh Meg. Thanks so much. I can’t tell you how this just made my day. You are a great sister. I am so lucky to have you. Thank you thank you thank you!
p.s. I am also extremely glad there is no video of that night.

Staci - Ahhh 🙂 What a sweet post for your sister 😉 Happy Birthday Lorel 🙂 You guys are way cute!

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - Awww you guys have the same smile. You look great in that pic of the two of you Meg:)

Kelly - Sisters are a great thing, aren’t they?

Alicia - My big sis was 9 yrs older than me but I thought the sun rose and set with her…still do!! Happy Tuesday Meg!

Tonya - How fun!!! This is why I always wanted a sister!

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whatever…the shop

OK.

i finally got everything entered into etsy.
i will be opening my shop at noon on saturday.
giving you the heads up.

to get to my shop you can click on the button on the top left here that says 
WHATEVER…the shop.   
<<<<————-right there.

thank you for all the concern for annie.
she is fine.
the story was to tell you about the crazy phones…not to worry you about annie.

the yellow fever shot was fine. 
the day was good.
i did not have to call any sex phone lines…good.
the birthday was good.
 
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the gift.
she liked it…..at least i think she did.

then i played happy birthday….i have no idea how to play at all.
i was being a total dork.
but i sang the whole thing…twice.
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old navy is turning 15 just like lauren….awesome.

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she decided on banana cream pie.  

happy birthday laurny. 
i honestly can't believe how fast the time has gone.
you are special.
i can't wait to see what God has planned for you.

Keydren - Thanks for being on point and on tagret!

Hannah - Lauren is 15?! She looks so much more mature than that, I thought she was closer to my age (just turned 19)!
Happy Birthday Lauren, and love your blog Meg!

holly - You are so talented. Glad I came across your blog tonight. Fun reading!

Stephanie - It is amazing how many things we can swallow, digest, and poop out! Once my daughter swallowed a shiny, confetti heart and yep pooped it out! My other daughter tried to swallow a plastic wrapper and that one I rescued – very scary. The next child swallowed one of those tiny foam animals that is supposed to get wet and grow….ya that one freaked me out! The doctor said stomach acid would take care of it. And my fourth one…well nothing yet….

Stephanie Carroll - I have got to get internet at home. All week I wait to buy a pillow and alas, the shop opens on the weekend! 🙂
Your stuff is so cute!!

Chicago jen - Happy belated b day. Is that why you didn’t want me for Lauren’s bday weekend? Afraid I would steal the show with my awesome karoake skills? Have you found the battery yet? Good times!

Cori - Can’t wait to get my gumball picture!

Cary - She is beautiful! Looks like she had a wonderful day! Congrats on getting the shop open- SO exciting!!!

Viktoria - Congrats on your shop, I Love it!!!!!
And Mazal Tov (in Hebrew) for your daughter’s birthday!

Messy@Bungalow'56 - Absolutely beautiful photos. My daughter is 14 turning 15 this summer. You’re right, it’s going by way too fast. Where would I be able to find this Tee? I know it would be a hit at birthday time here as well.
Dana

gina - She looks gorgeous and very happy with her gift in the shot of her on the chair!! And my 15 yo noticed those products at ON but is too interested in turning 16 this summer to care.

Pam duMont - Just found your blog and I love it! My son is turning 15 next month too..he’s my oldest. He also wants a pie…no cake??? What?? Happy Birthday Lauren…I love your house Meg!!

www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1407964423 - Meg I just wanted to tell you that you look like you have lost weight! I think the no sugar thing is working for you. It’s funny because I’m doing the same thing, and I’m making the kids eat healthier too. Sugar is okay for special times but our Country has turned everyday into a special time to eat sugar and it’s too much.

Lisa - I’m bummed I missed the pillows and the photos of the paints. I’ll have to keep checkin’ your cute store filled with fun stuff! What a fun place! Happy b-day, Lauren.

Melanie - Happy Birthday Lauren…..she is getting more mature looking. My son will be 16 in May and I am like you….where did the time go?

Heather Giustino - Happy birthday to your beautiful girl, congrats on the shop and i’m so glad to hear that Annie is doing well!

tami reed - She is gorg happy bday to her!

Bridget - Congratulations on your shop – super cute things!! I love your blog – gives me a lift and inspires. Keep it up.

Georgia - Happy birthday Lauren!!!! ♥
Meg you have such a gorgeous daughter!!!! I bet your are super proud 🙂
Checked out your etsy shop, and love the prints!!!
xx

candace - Hope her birthday was wonderful! I want her hair (insert Tina Fey’s longing, dazed look here) 🙂

Kirsten - Happy Birthday to Lauren – gosh she is beautiful! And I remember a call to the doctor’s after my little one swallowed an extra-large sequin. I had visions of it slicing her intestines open…but everything came out okay 😛

Amber - She is just astonishingly beautiful. What a blessing. Your family just seems so loving. Be blessed.
Congrats on the shop! Off to check it out now!

Melissa - She is so pretty!!!

vanessa - Happy Bday to Lauren. She is beautiful! And her hair is awesome. Do you think she would do a tutorial on how to get those curls?

Julie K. - I can.not believe you have a 15 year old! Holy cow. And she’s gorgeous! 🙂 Really beautiful.

The Bookworm - Love the picture of Lauren & the dog. If you look quick at the pup, it looks like there are eyebrows giving you a stern look! So cute!

Julie - OMG you are killing me with your shop. Gorgeous stuff. Love your blog too.

Victoria - Happy Birthday Lauren! She is a beautiful young lady just like her Mama!
Wow, that is the same # I have for poison control! How bizarre. Makes me wonder what would happen if it were an emergency and you needed poison control instantly….

Cate O'Malley - oh so bummed I missed out on pillows, and I’ve been diligently checking every day. Happy Birthday, Lauren! Looks like another fun family celebration!

Laura Phelps - you do know that I used to work at a modeling agency, and that if I still did, I would come to your home and steal Lauren…what a gorgeous girl, inside and out!

Sharla - What a beautiful girl. Love the picture of her and Waffle.

Flower Patch Farmgirl - Love that first balloon shot! And I can never get over Lauren’s beauty. And…one more thing…what was it? Oh! I can’t believe Old Navy is 15! (I just tried to capitalize “15”. Guess numbers can’t be shouted??) Anyway, that makes me feel oldish!

Anna Marie - I LOVE Lauren’s hair! She is so pretty! Looks like you all had a wonderful time.

Renee - Thanks for sharing Lauren’s birthday with us. She’s so beautiful and I LOVE the picture of her holding her new guitar. Such a natural. Had the best time in your Etsy shop today. Big hug to you, xoxo

The Lady of the House - Congrats on the Etsy shop… Can’t wait to check it out! I <3 etsy!!! What a fun birthday! Happy Day, The Lady

Jackie Parlee - Etsy purchase complete! Cannot wait to get my goofy Annie photo! 🙂

Tere - Etsy purchase made …. my contribution to your trip 🙂

Kristine - lauren is gorgeous! and her smile looked genuine! 🙂

melissa - Meg, you have a BEAUTIFUL 15 year old!!!!! I can’t wait to hear if she goes far with that guitar!!!
Melissa

sandy toe - What a beautiful girl..happy happy beautiful!
sandy toe

Susan - Oh my goodness. You have a beautiful girl there. My baby turns 16 in March. What the heck is going on here? I swear I just had her. Very happy to hear everything is well and you don’t need and “emergengy” assitence.
What kind of dog do you have? We are in the market and are looking at Labradoodles. Yours looks like a Goldendoodle. We babysit a Goldendoodle named Jeeter. You can see him on my blog.

carissa... brown eyed fox - and what a beauty she is… that brown eyed girl.
sure glad it was a fun day.
i really wish i could play the guitar… always wanted to… AND i adore her scarf! 🙂

patti - so excited about your shop! on a side note….the first ad (front n center – the blog) doesn’t have a link. i’ve been going to the links a few a day to check them out and “see the sites”, so to speak. and that one is not clickable (wait, is that even a word? well, it is now!) 🙂
have a great weekend and wishing you tons and tons of success with the shop!

Dianne Avery - Beautiful fun pics! Looks like a great party.

Heather - Happy Birthday, Lauren! I’m glad Annie is okay. I love banana creme pie…yum! It looks like you guys had a great time celebrating. Cheers. ~Heather R.

purejoy - whoops!! just so you don’t think i’m a dork, i said georgie instead of annie, the incredible battery swallowing child. i hope things have …uh… come out alright there.
but really, i am a dork. not enough coffee this morning.

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - She’s a beautiful girl Meg. Watch her close! Happy Birthday Lauren!! I would have loved to hear your rendition of Happy Birthday;)
I’ll be back to check out the store… I bet you are so excited:)

purejoy - love celebrations, and lauren’s brought tears to my eyes. cherish these moments. they’re so special! and i love, love, LOVE the faces of georgie and talby and how they are over-the-moon excited to celebrate lauren. so precious. thanks for sharing a window into your world.
as always, your photos are phenomenal and waffles is adorable.

Kelly - I didn’t comment on yesterdays post because I didn’t know if I should laugh or cry. I hate days like that! Not that I have a habit of calling sex lines but you know what I mean. 🙂
Lauren is a beautiful girl! It looks like she had a great day celebrating 15!

julia - I need to go to ON for my 15 yr old 🙂

Christy - Glad Annie is okay. I can’t tell you how many times I have checked your site for an update.
Happy birthday to Lauren! She is such a beautiful girl. How cool Old Navy (one of our favs!) is having it’s 15th too! Cute tee & mug! Love it!

Dana D@BoysMyJoys - Happy Birthday, Lauren!
You have an amazing smile!
(And, I love the scarf!)

Brooke - She is so pretty! Your family is awesome! I have always wanted a big family! Happy Birthday Lauren!
P.s. I am not a stalker but a huge fan of your blog. I read it daily and feel like I know your family. haha
Blessings,
Brooke

Melissa - Lauren – you are so beautiful, hope your 15th year is an extra special one
Happy Birthday

Grace - You must be so proud of her. She’s grown into a beautiful young lady!

traci - happy, happy birthday lauren. what a beautiful girl!!!! the photo of her and waffle is stunning.

Chris Kauffman - Happy Birthday to Lauren , my daughter is now as old as Lauren was when you started blogging , how quickly things change .
Hope Annie is ok , i have had nightmares about my kids swallowing batteries, freaks me right out.

shelly - Looks like a great party! Happy Birthday to Lauren!
So glad that all is good with shots…Annie…and no sex lines! (I told my husband whose a paramedic and he laughed so hard about poison control!…next time he said just call the er, they’ll know what to tell you)

Lanny Stanard - Happy Birthday… love the picture of you and waffle. I’m a big waffle fun he’s so cute and I’m sure you agree! Happy Birthday to YOU!
Lanny <3

Sophie - Happy Birthday Lauren!
She is such a beautiful young lady, Meg! (:

angela - Lauren is only 15? WOW! She is so pretty and looks 18…I know you don’t want to hear that mom!!

Christina - What a day!!
Happy Birthday to your girl…it’s wild to watch your oldest grow. With little ones, sometimes I think it distracts me from my oldest. Maybe you feel the same way.
I’m glad Annie is fine. What a truly crazy experience. You should go on the news with that; it’s totally not okay that the poison control can’t be reached!!
Anyway, Lauren looks very happy! I’m glad her special day remained special. 🙂

Diana - Yeahhhhhhhhhhh! Happy Happy Joy Joy! Happy Birthday {again} Lauren!
She is such a beautiful young woman… she looks like a model, you know! And that dazzling smile. {You know we can tell your kids are happy, look at those faces!} I’m sure they loved your birthday song… I mean, look at Talby beside you while you were playing the guitar! LOL! Oh what a happy family!!
You cut your hair!! And it’s really CUTE!!
You’re going to open your shop while I am out-of-town??? ARG!! You guys leave me something please! Hmmm, maybe if I’m really really lucky I’ll get back in time for when you unlock the doors and let us in… gonna be like a Black Friday stampede, LOL!!
{SO GLAD Annie is okay!}

Immyyas - She is a gorgeous girl! Very rare to get a teenager to smile I’m sure 🙂 What a great gift. Sooo glad you didn’t have to make any more naughty calls.

Tere - happy, happy, happy Lauren…..

amy d - i’m glad you had a good day and didn’t need to make any “extra” phone calls.

christi - happy birthday lauren! meg, she is beautiful and it looks like the whole family enjoyed the birthday celebration!

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eight

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happy birthday talbyloo.
eight years seemed to have flown by….just like that!
my big 9 pound baby is growing up so quick.
love you sweet girl.

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tami reed - Awh Happy Birthday to the bookie!

Beth - What a sweet girl! I hope she had a great day!

susie whyte - lots of cake being eaten at your house these days!! happy birthday, talby!!
okay, let me just say a HUGE thanks to you….
i won the PW book on no. 17 cherry tree lane’s giveaway!! yay!!!!!! thanks for the side bar heads up! 🙂

se7en - Oh wonderful happy eight – What a fun year is coming your way!!!

Kristine - she’s darling! great cake! you have been celebrating a lot of birthdays lately… i guess that’s what happens with big families!

Kelly - wowie! yum that looks good! love the owl tray too. Happy birthday Talby!!! Pretty girl and pretty plate with the roses. Kelly

Sarah@Clover Lane - What is the deal with your cakes??? I am not even a huge cake fan, but everytime you post a picture of a cake you made I get massive cake cravings.
Happy Birthday Talby!

Julie - Talby is such a cool kid! I hope she had a great birthday!

DreamGirlLisa - Aww, how sweet, the times flies, doesn’t it? So sad our babies have to grow up. My “baby” is 14 now, doesn’t seem possible! I will be making rainbow cupcakes for her soccer party this weekend…the girls should get a “kick”out of them:)

pve - You really must have a book, showing other Mom’s how to celebrate life!

your cool friend Cheryl - Happy bday to your little girl!
ps. I love that birdie tray! 😉

Stephanie Carroll - Happy Birthday, Talby!
Meg, wondering if you ever go to these sorts of things
http://blissdomconference.com/

emily - happy birthday talby!
i have the same antique china with the sweet pink flowers!!! i need to take them out of the cabinet more often!

Kate - Happy Birthday! That’s it… I’m pulling out my cute plates and using them. No more waiting!

Cate O'Malley - Happy Birthday, Talby! That cake and ice cream looks perfect for the celebration – yum!

Sophie - Happy birthday Talby1
Such a sweetheart (:

amy - happy bday talby.
btw-if i was crazy enough to have another child (maybe someday–see i’m crazy enough to not say never. and apparently i can’t complete one thought before running into another one!), i would so name my baby girl talby.
it’s such a precious sweet name.
have fun at silver bella. that’s some seriously crazy crafty stuff over there. 🙂

Tracy - Happy Birthday Talby! Cute picture of you and the cake! Hope you have/had a great birthday sweetie! :o)

pam - happy birthday talby!!! 🙂

Staci - Happy Birthday Talby!!!!!!!! Hope she had a great day!!!! We have an 8th birthday coming up next May….wow, does the time just fly by 🙁

Jess - Happy Birthday to Talby! The cake looks fantastic!

jennifer - What a fun cake! Bet she loved it!
Happy Birthday Talby!!!

sarah - Happy Birthday, Talby!

Cindy Ashmore - Happy Birthday Talby!

julie - Eight is great! Happy birthday Talby!

Gratsia - Happy Birthday!!!!!!!

Shari Barnes - Oh… I want some cake NOW!! Might have to bake one today!

Kristy Ledford - That’s it…I’m making my son’s Bday cake. You’ve inspired me with your cute, scrumptious looking cakes and cupcakes.
Happy Birthday Talby!

Emily - love that owl tray? where ever did you make that delicious purchase?
also, i am a new reader to the site and i am in lust with your house. IT’S GORGEOUS! (i just broke the no capital letters rule. boo me!)

angela - That cake and ice cream wants me.It is calling my name. Your sweet girl is precious!!! Happy Birthday Talby!

erin j - You always make the cutest cakes. Love it!!

misty - talby & annie have birthdays so close together! That’s how it was for my sister and I. I was in late august and she was early sept. I loved that because we got to celebrate our b-days, have halloween- then the holidays~ there was always a celebration it seemed.
I love the cake~ It looks so good, especially with the ice cream! I love how you even piped on the pink frosting! its making me hungry!

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - Oh Happy Birthday to your 8 year old! It does go so fast. Love the scrumptious cake and ice cream. Makes me want some soooo bad:)

missye - It really does fly by quick!
Happy Birthday Talby!
And you have totally inspired me to start making my children’s birthday cakes again!

adrienneK - look at that cake!!!happy birthday talby!!!so sweet!!!

danyele - that is awesomeness…strawberry and chocolate and cake! sweet!

TRACI - Great cake, she’s a cutie and YES, the years FLY by!!!!!!!!!!

Starnes Fam - Happy Birthday! Love her name…..don’t think I’ve told you that.
Looks like another great cake!

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five

this is an account of annie's fifth birthday.
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annie found this note on her door and started asking who made it for her.
i could tell sean had so she went to him and asked "sean…do you love me?!"  
he answered…"it's your birthday so i made you a card."
he was not going to say he loved her.
but his actions spoke it.  and he told talby "i used that because it's her favorite color"
i was smiling while listening to this hall way conversation still in my warm bed…6:45 AM.

annie is now five years old.
that is crazy.
and hard to have my baby be that age.

we took her two best buddies micah and eliza swimming…at 10:30 on a tuesday morning.
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i felt just like i was back in my daycare days.
when lauren was this age i used to take her and my daycare kids (other 3 & 4 years olds) swimming.
then we'd have to get all dried off and dressed…that was what reminded me…3 times over.

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annie chose wendy's for her birthday lunch.  
she started with pizza hut…changed her plans to sonic….then decided on wendy's 20 minutes before.
for the frosty.
which she only ate/drank half of anyway.
we took our happy meals to the park and ate on the top of the slide.
then the three of them played a game which consisted of screaming for help and running from "the boss"
weird.
but it kept them busy for 45 minutes.

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a birthday card in the mail….with money…SCORE!  thanks great grandma!!

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micah gave her some paint and it was the first thing she wanted to do when we got home.
 
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new shoes.

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i think annie was relieved to have her birthday over.
the pressure and excitement she was putting on herself for a month was exhausting her.
she told me so many times that she was "five now"…"ready for kindergarten" and "really big"

but she's my baby.

sniffle sniffle…my baby is not even close to a baby anymore.
pass the kleenex please.

Robin - I just finished copying Annie’s cake for my 4 year old’s birthday party tomorrow. It is just perfect for him. Love your style! Thanks!

elisa - Oh man, soooooo hard to watch them grow up!
Happy Birthday Annie!

Mandi - Happy birthday Annie!!

Sam - Happy birthday Annie! Looks like you had the most perfect day!!

Pineapple Princess - Happy birthday to the amazing Annie!
God bless your year!!!

Diana - What, you don’t know who “the boss” is?!?!
Okay, neither do I.
My grandkids play that game, too, LOL!
Happy Birthdayyyyyyyyyyyyyyy, dear Annieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee….
Happy Birthday to youuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu!
AWESOME shoes, Annie! Very cool in orange!

Christina - Sweet day…
I love that she wanted to paint first thing! So cute. Is she a lot like you in many ways?

Melanie - Happy birthday Annie!
Looks like you did a great job on her special day.
I am waiting for you to stop by my blog. You know I leave Florida on Saturday, headed for northern Kentucky. Might be borrowing that hot cocoa machine for those cold winters. LOL

Becca Parker - Happy Birthday Annie! Congratulations on being one whole hand, it’s a big deal. I like your new shoes!

your cool friend Cheryl - Happy birthday to your baby!

Amy - I have an Annie myself…she is 6…I totally understand the ‘baby no more’ syndrome! WAAAAA!!! Great photos…what a fun day!

Kelly - ahhh!!! happy, happy birthday! what a lovely, marshmallowey goodness kind of cake. looks like a fantastic day! sweet sean. 🙂 love the painting picture. kelly

Tonya McDaniel - Happy, happy birthday to your sweet, baby, big girl! My baby turned 5 earlier this year…it’s unbelievable.

kristin - okay. conversation at our house after the swimming time:
did you have fun?
yes!
what did you like?
everything!
did you ever cry?
yes! i cried the WHOLE way to swimming and then i never cried again.
did megan help you?
yes.
did you feel safe?
yes.
why did you cry?
i wanted you.
but then you had fun?
yes!
so next time you won’t cry because you know how to do it!
oh, i will cry. i will cry every time. and then i will stop.
:: :: ::
sorry, meg. and thank you for helping my child through this!!!

Lisa - Happy Birthday to Annie! What a wonderful looking day she had! 🙂

julie - Happy, happy day to Annie. Pass me some cake please.

alice - i love your cake – it’s so cute! happy birthday, annie!!!

Ruth - happy birthday to annie! she is just fabulous. the cake is gorgeous. and the shoes… perfection!

Carrie K - okay…i want to be five again! what a great birthday 🙂
fantastic pictures mama!!

Gratsia - Happy Birthday!!!!! Looked like a fun day…yummy cake!

Cindy Ashmore - Happy Birthday Annie!!!!

Nancy M - The 5th birthday is bittersweet. Quick, have another baby!

Stephanie Carroll - Is it weird that I want to do on my birthday exactly what Annie did on hers? Only I’ll be 26. So what?

Simies - Happy birthday, Annie!

Cami - Happy Birthday Annie!!! I love her new shoes and the cake is awesome.

meaghan - that is one sugary looking cake! so cute!! she makes me want to have a girl so badly 😉 happy day annie!

Kate - Happy Birthday, Annie! 🙂

amy - happy birthday to your little annie!
isn’t it nutty how fast they grow up?
p.s. please send me a piece of that cake.
pretty please!

kat - Happy birthday, sweet Annie! Precious pictures, incredible cake, priceless memories. She’ll always be your baby! 🙂

jen@ourdailybigtop - What a great birthday! I’ll be with you soon – my baby will turn 5 in June. Sigh.
PS: Love the marshmellows around the cake – great idea!

Ashley - That cake is fantastic… the new shoes are VERY annie… Eliza’s card is awesome. I love how she used pom poms for the finger nails! :)… the money shot (ha) is classic… and Sean is a sweetheart. It looks like Annie had an amazing day. 🙂

juliann brenner - Happy Birthday Annie! I remember being preggo at the same time; which means Olivia will be five in a MONTH! Wow, time flies…. The cake you made would be O’s dream cake; chocolate with lots of sprinkles and marshmallows…perfect!

Cori Heffernan - Happy Birthday Annie!! My baby Molly will be 5 in march. She is the youngest of 4. I almost cried in Kohls when I realized I had to move out of the 2T-4T section.I don’t have T’s anymore :(. I’ve spent the last 10 years in the T’s!!

Karina - Happy birthday Annie!!! My oldest (of three) is five and I already feel like crying because they are growing up so fast. Thanks for the gorgeous pics, as always. Annie is a doll.

Roxie's Mom - I’m still trying to figure out what’s so weird about screaming for help and running from the boss. Sounds like a pretty normal day for most folk. 🙂

Tracy - Awww…. Happy 5th Birthday, Annie! Our kids are growing up WAY TOO FAST, Meg! My “baby” will be 16 in only 17 more days – wah wah wah – pass the kleenex back to me, would ya?! :o)

Beth Ann - looked like a perfect birthday!!!!

Sophie - Happy birthday Annie!
Gosh, she’s such a gorgeous little lady. (:

Erin Johnson - That’s one super cute cake! Chocolate cake seasoned with marshmallows… magic.

Crystal - Beautiful. You are a super mom…it will be exciting to see what the next chapter brings for you. 🙂 Hope you are well! I miss chit chatting with you! 🙂

sarah - Painting topless must be so freeing. 🙂
I love that Sean made her a birthday sign!!
Looks like a wonderful day for her 🙂
*Passing you some Kleenex*

Trish - ahhhh…. why do they have to grow up so fast! it won’t fit in with the theme of addie’s strawberry shortcake birthday, but i am so making that cake for her she would absolutely freak out!!!! and that is what it’s all about.
thanks for inspiring me on a “real mom” level and not a crazy, hard to obtain level!

Mother Runner - Happy Birthday Annie! We love you!
Hope your b-day dinner and time with friends was THE BEST!

Lisa Marie - Awesome…My Maddie Love Wendy’s too… 🙂

Blanca - Happy Birthday Annie!!!!

susie whyte - the sean story is too cute. i love it when you catch those little conversations.
my almost 4 yr old daughter is usually nearby the computer when i check in on the duerksen’s and she loves to see annie’s photos. paint, playing in leaves, dress-up, etc. she asks me if that’s her friend(she has a friend in germany that she only sees through pics on the computer). ha ha.
happy birthday, annie!! hope you enjoyed your awesome cake! 🙂

Kristine - i love the card from eliza! is it appropriate to copy it for a thirty-something birthday?! i must!

pve - I love that she got relief on her birthday. Five is a great year and I love that photo with the money. Priceless.
pve

amy - this is so beautiful and makes my heart pang for my future momma days! thank you so much for sharing, it looks like it was a perfect day.

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - Those pics were great Meg. The one with her holding the money to her face…priceless. Happy Birthday Annie!!

adrienneK - omg this is so sweet! and what a great cake!!!! i love the card and all the paint action!! i know its so weird ,zoe just turned four and im like…no…shes still a baby 🙁
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MISS ANNIE!!!!!

Lane - Ok, I want Wendy’s now! 🙂
Happy Birthday to Annie!

Sarah@Clover Lane - Happy Birthday Annie! That cake looks SO good!

Kimberlee J. - Glad to see she liked the boots!

Lisa - Looks like such a happy day!

misty - {happy birthday annie!!}
I loved all of the pics, as usual~ & what a SWEETHEART you have for a son =) & what would craig say if you told him you were ready for just ONE more baby?? My husband says we’re finished and we just have one… so I will call her my baby til she’s… well, FOREVER =)

danyele @ a thorn among roses - …and she’s so precious! swimming. suckers. new shoes. chicken nuggets. friends. painting. sounds like the perfect bday to me

Kathy - AH! Annie happy birthday!WOw! she is a big girl now Mom already telling you she is ready for school! Here I’m passing you kleenx right now!

Sarah - Happy Birthday to your little one.

se7en - AAAAWWW – Cutie-pie!!! Happy Annie’s Day… I hope five is a great year for all of you!!!

Toni :O) - I LOVE the birthday shot of her and her friend jumping into the pool with their swimmies…SO C.U.T.E.! Great, great shot! Glad she had a fun birthday, she is just adorable!

Flower Patch Farmgirl - Have you tried asking her to “please stay little”? I ask both of mine at least once a week and it hasn’t worked yet, but I’m not giving up.
I wish Calvin and Annie could play together. He would bring his Bob Ross palette.

traci - So sweet. happy birthday annie. i love her new shoes – they are so her!!!

sandy toe - You really capture the colorfulness of childhood…that cake is just great!
sandy toe

Erin V. - Oh my goodness, Annie is such a sweetheart! I’m glad she had a great 5th birthday! She will always be your baby no matter how old she is!

Lindy - Happy Birthday Dear Annie! My “baby” is 28, soon to have another baby of her own. Now, that makes you feel old.

Anna Marie - You need to give all of us Craig’s email list so we can talk him into letting you have another 😉
Happy birthday sweet little Annie!
{cute cake}

Nancy - I am right with you.. My little one will be 5 in a few months. That is a big year. LIke you said, Kindergarten. Just big stuff. I am sniffling for you. A dress rehearsal, warm up for me in March!

Sarah @ Dream In Domestic - Awww! Sweet Annie is five already! It looks like she had a great birthday. I love that she was painting topless. Oh to be that young again! That cake looks amazing, by the way. I can only imagine how good it probably tasted! Here’s to many more years of birthdays, because even though she may not be a baby, she will still be around the house for a long time! 🙂

Beth Ann - Awww, Happy Birthday, Annie! Looks like it was a great day.

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