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the etc.

February 14, 2012

our local thrift shop is called The Et Cetera Shop.
the town i grew up in had one also so it's been part of my life for a long time.
i donate LOTS of stuff to it every year. (kids out grow out of clothes so fast!)

but i buy LOTS of fun stuff there too.

i stopped in yesterday for their grand re-opening after remodeling….ya know….just to peek.

i left with a box almost too big to take to my car myself.
oh my.

this seriously heavy duty fish shaped bottle opener could not stay there all alone.
it needed me.
it was lonely….it had traveled all the way from Moses Lake, Washington!

a little spray paint….
a little oxi clean….
maybe some RIT dye for the chenille…

another chalk board.
i just can't resist them!

and if they have a green painted chalk tray….forget about it?!!!
it must come home with me.

talby came home and said "what does thrifty mean?"

thrift·y/ˈTHriftē/

Adjective:

(of a person or their behavior) Using money and other resources carefully and not wastefully

Synonyms:

economical – frugal – sparing – saving – economic

craig may disagree that i am "thrifty" BUT at least i enjoy a bargain when i find one.

pottery in the perfect shade of turquoise….
teeny red cardinal salt and pepper shakers to be saved for a craft someday…
a silver dish to hold bracelets in my bathroom….

and a handmade blanket that screams "happy valentines day!"

a weathered globe….
and a yard of sweet heart fabric.

it was a fabulous day at the thrift shop.
i love those kind of days.

we are painting this after school…because….it's pretty!

(source…)

and i can't wait.
it looks completely relaxing to paint that.
pattern and color over and over…..ahhhhhhh.

do you have big valentine's day plans?
i will be honest with ya'll….i don't celebrate Valentines.
i don't decorate.
i don't make treats.
i buy the $2 box of cards for my kids to take to class…with Victorious and Angry Birds.
i am sure if craig was one of those guys that went nuts with gifts and flowers for valentines i wouldn't object to that but seriously i just don't really care.

i know i am loved everyday.
and my kids know it too.

here is my ode to valentines….from the Lord.

thank you Lord for that kind of love.
amen.

******************************************

don't forget to enter to win a $100 gift card to the Olive Garden HERE.

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Jeeva - These are really funny. I would be esatctic to get the knot one in the mail. Also, a note, I’ve been reading your blog for a while, don’t think i’ve ever commented, but wanted to tell you I have really enjoyed reading your post.

Imran - these are so uber cute and special!!! Thank you so very much for srnihag!!! When I do a new blog post I will link these to my blog—I think that’s how you’d term it—-(I’m new at this)—be blessedBeyond Measuretammywww.bbbm.weebly.combartlettpair4atmsndotcom

Mehran - Oh I am ALWAYS out of ink… I think my Printer literally dinrks it before I can ever use it.. LOL!! These are Really Cute… I seriously need to learn how to use my photo elements that I bought Two years ago still sitting in the Original Box Unopened because of FEAR!!! .. 🙂 But thankfully there are WONDERFUL people like you who offer such CUTE Free things to print.. 🙂

Terrie G - so, how did you like the geodesic dome? My husband’s cousin made it. It’s like setting up all the dominoes…I wouldn’t have the patience for it!

Kristin S - Ugh, our thrift stores are so lame! Tempted to drive all the way to Kansas…

Bethany - Ah… I saw that afghan in their facebook pictures. Dreamy. But I didn’t make it up that way for the reopening. Glad it went to a good home. 🙂

Karen Pittson - I found that EXACT “Bless our Home” plaque at the Goodwill. You can see how I transformed it here http://alilbird.blogspot.com/2010/08/gussy-up-your-80s-plaques-and-crazy.html Loved the pretty pages of hearts, and your darling girls. Thanks for sharing your life with us 🙂

Brandi - I made the Oreo pudding poke cake for my kids on Valentine’s Day. It was a huge hit. How could it not be, right? I’m going to try the water color craft later today. If it turns out like your daughter’s, it will be a framer.

elisa - I love vintage chenille. Love. And that pink and red blanket!!!!

megan - whoa. i’m kind of dying over your thrifty finds.
fabulous!
and
i don’t decorate for valentine’s either.
and, perk #142 of homeschooling? not having to make valentine’s cards. 🙂
i’m kind of a valentine’s grinch.
the Mr. and I did leave the kids home alone to go out for an early dinner, though.
xoxo

Sarah @ Handbags*N*Pigtails - P.S. I also meant to say that I had this exact same globe(your newest one) when I was in high school. And I actually used it for school:) If only I had known then that Id want them years later…

Sarah @ Handbags*N*Pigtails - Im jealous of that chalkboard. I have one in my home that I made over from a cheap, gold frame of a full length mirror. It turned out great but Id love a huge rectangular one for my kitchen wall. We just repainted in there after the fire and its so much brighter!(Ive cooked meals almost every night since we repainted…a sure sign that its more fun to be in there now than when it was red:))
I recently scored a globe at a new thrift store here in town and it was still in the box! I got it for $7.

Vonda - You know how some things take you by surprise!? Well I just got the mail and my daughter gets Popular Photography and as I laid it on the counter YOUR picture was on the back. I was like “I KNOW HER”. lol. Been following your blog for a long time. It was a nice surprise!!! 🙂

denise@victory rd. - i never have such luck when i go thrifting. never. love the globe. i am so in the market for globes. found some last week for $50-$60, used! that’s not thrifty.

Lisa - I can’t believe someone could part with that beautiful crocheted afghan! But what a score for you! I have one just like that in yellows, oranges, & browns that my grandmother made for me when I was a teenager . . . with a matching pillow! Sentimental love! And who can ever pass up chenille anything! Looks like a successful treasure hunt.

Yby5 - I would have wrestled you over the globe and chalkboard..I have the same love of those as well 🙂
what a great day you had!!

Jenn - That’s awesome the the fish bottle opener came all the way from WA :). I am using your comments to find people who live close to Moses Lake since I live (semi) close to there too. I like other WA bloggers. So thanks for that! As for Valentines, nothing big, usually just a sweet note to one another and a bottle of good wine. Simple and fun.

Melody - fun finds! My mom grew up in Moses Lake WA so we were there MANY times over the years visiting family (and still have some there to visit) 🙂

Lori Austin - Great finds! Love the bowl and the chalkboard….I’m waiting patiently to find some older (character filled) chalkboards in my town. No luck so far.
Love V-day. Start the day with heart plates and yummy breakfast with a couple of special surprises by my kiddos plates. Worked the party at my daughter’s school. Home to make our “special family dinner” with small valentine mailboxes filled with cute little items. Pink, purple, red color everywhere. Love it!! (plus my hubby one up’d the flowers this year and came home with the 2nd season of Downton Abbey on DVD. Woohoo! 🙂

Mindy Harris - i love all of your finds. wonderful wonderful. i may hafto make a special trip to ETC. ha. happy heart day.

Amy @ www.littleforalittlewhile.blogspot.com - At first I thought that box was full of things you were TAKING to the thrft store and I thought “Why would she get rid of all that awesome stuff?!”. Makes so much more sense the other way around 😉 Happy heart day!

Wendy - My girls went to school with their Valentines this morning without the accompanying lollipops … bc they ate half of them last nite 🙁

Kristin - Oh my what good finds! We don’t celebrate Valentines Day either, our anniversary is a week later. 🙂

Valerie @ Chateau A La Mode - Hello Miss Meg, Happy Valentine’s Day to you. Just letting you know I “borrowed” your 1 Corinthians verse for my blog. Hope it’s okay. I didn’t think you would mind. P.S. Love the fish bottle opener 🙂

Carrie - wow oh wow what an awesome thrift store day!! the globe is awesome!!! jealous of it all!!! 🙂

Juli - I have that exact chalkboard! Yours originally had a green rope that went through the holes. Mine hangs over my son’s headboard and currently reads, “I love you, Jackie poo-poo”, a “love note” from his sister! HA!

kristin - ha! i had that afghan in my arms for about 10 seconds and put it back….feeling overwhelmed by my growing box.
: )

Rebecca - rad finds Meg!!! love that blanket!

Mary - I bought that exact same Bless Our Home sign last year at Goodwill! I painted mine turquoise and orange. And I’m thinking about repainting it again. So fun!

Marianne - Love the turquoise bowl!! We have a white and charcoal grey kitchen and I visit second hand stores to collect colourful dishes to display! I have come across some real lovelies but now that my open shelving is getting full I am becoming more choosie. I don’t think that’s a word but you get my drift… 🙂

Kerry - What an awesome name for a shop! You got really thrifty there Meg – I can spend HOURS at the charity shop – buying stuff for ‘What if’ and ‘Just Maybe’ Great finds 🙂
I don’t really celebrate Valentines either, but I got a bottle of Jimmy Choo perfume, so I’m all smiley anyways xx 🙂

Jen - Oh that red and pink afghan is AMAZING. Wish I could find one of those!! We had heart shaped pancakes for brunch, but we don’t do much else… I’d rather celebrate love all year long than just today!

Margo - I am so happy you found such great things! As we put the store back together on Saturday I saw that globe and totally thought of you! If I had even had time to really look around that bowl may have been mine….ha!

kirsten - if only I could find stuff that cool at my local thrift shop.
i read your last post right before bed last night, and then dreamed that i came to visit. it was SO much fun visiting you in dreamland. 🙂

Amy - Moses Lake is right next to where I live….we go to their water park during the summer and they’ve got a great pizza place! let me know if you want more fish for your sea…. 😉
I made homemade nutella poptarts this morning for the kids….with strawberries to look like hearts! that’s it folks! I’m actually wearing black today….oops! Love the family and the hubby everyday!!

happygirl - I love your thrifty ways. It makes reading your blog so much fun. I don’t make the treats either. I’m glad I’m not the only one. 🙂

Maria - Ugh, auto correct… A night off cooking…not alight…just ignore any other typos…

Maria - We keep it simple here. We order dinner out instead of the whole, grab a sitter,wait, wait wait with everyone else. I’d much rather just have alight off cooking and just relax at hometown catch up on the DVD together.
Flowers…if I don’t pick them out at SAMs myself (I can’t help myself sometimes), I’ll usually see a simple bouquet brought home, which is fine. This year I gave a big hint on which ones I wanted from SAMs. We’ll see…otherwise I will get them myself later this week…
As for candy, I have to pick up brachs candy hearts ( the big ones) every year….in fact, I already bought them…i am addicted to the orange ones…my kids get the rest…mostly.
Happy Valentines Day!

Ashley - Oh, how I wish we had an awesome thrift store like that! My grandparents have that Bless Our Home plaque. I have always loved it.
The boys helped make treats for school, valentines from balloons for friends, and we open small gifts with the kids. My favorite was my oldest’s pair of Night Fury sunglasses from the store. Just a small, fun gesture. It’s always been kind of big for me because it’s when the hubby asked me out nearly a decade ago. Sentimentality, I guess. Showing the love daily rocks, though, an that’s exactly what we strive to do! 🙂
Have a happy day!

sara @ it's good to be queen - yes, love the etc. shop. you better believe that is a must stop whenever we’re in kansas. it is SO CHEAP!! way better than goodwill. i got a huge box of goodies over christmas. milk glass for a quarter? yes. please. i love all your finds. so great. happy day!

mandy friend - okay, your state is the place to thrift! we NEVER find cvool stuff like that in oregon…or if we did it’d be in an antique stor for lots of $! i paid almost $40 for the globe i was finally able to find!

shannon - Oh my goodness those goodies you got!!! I love the globe and that blanket is perfect, especially for today 🙂 Your thrift store looks amazing, ours is not so great. Hope you and your loved ones have a great Valentine’s Day

Meg Duerksen - thanks so much dana!!!

Dana D@BoysMyJoys - Here’s a link from my pinterest page for the heart print- http://pinterest.com/pin/71142869083511516/
And here’s the link for where she sells the print in her shop- http://www.etsy.com/listing/92537572/small-v-color-study-print
LOVE all your great finds!

Ali - Oh my goodness!!! I seriously would have bought every single thing you did. I loooooooove it all!!! Awesome 🙂
Happy V-day!

geneva - I agree about Valentines Day! Just a commercial holiday to make $. Treat your love and loved ones the same way everyday! Who needs a “made up” holiday!! ;)Anyway, my love’s birthday is today! 🙂

Jolene (Homespun Heritage) - I do NOT normally DO Valentines Day…its just not a “holiday” with much meaning to me…we love our family daily and don’t let the media or the masses tell us what day we have to set aside to show them that. So, imagine my surprise when the hubs comes home for lunch with a bouquet and a balloon?!!? It *IS* extra special simply because that is a rare treat and I love him surprising me! (He usually does that sort of stuff throughout the year and not ON V-day).
I told him I planned a nice family dinner but I can’t gift wrap the pork chops very well!

Lori H - Valentines is no big deal at our house. My husband knows not to buy the overpriced roses…I love the tulips from Trader Joes ($4.99). Now that my kids are older, they don’t take cards to school. Just a Hallmark Holiday in my eyes. Love your thrift store finds. Gives me the itch to go hunting!

Laura Phelps - you are so thrifty 🙂
Nick is in LA for a while….
but cupid left treats for the kids
and I am off to do some fun baking
i do like valentines day
its my moms birthday
and well…
love is just so darn hard
so I am happy today to have so much of it around me
I dressed the dog
ha!
in a heart print dress
its killing me
tonight I think it is frozen french bread pizza for the kids and a little writing for me
yup
romantic
love to you and your family
xoxoxoxoxox

Amy@BuffaloRoam - Very cool finds! Love me some thrifting. 🙂

Whitney - Good thrifting!
Such a cute painting, I can’t wait to see what the kid’s versions look like!
Happy Heart Day!

Kerstie - You so scored at the thrift shop. Valentines day IS over celebrated. Showing love threw buying flowers and chocolate… not my thing. We do do heart shaped pizza, heart cookies, and cards the kids scribble on. I am a crafter soooo some V-tines day crafting does happen. 😉
Happy day!

Tiffany - Oh man, that art is cute & simple, i like that, we may have to give it a go too. Thrift days are like that, feast or famine. And you know what they say about men and thrifting…A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he needs. A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item that she doesn’t need, it’s sooo true in my house, sounds like yours as well. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Jenn A. - I am sad that anyone ever got rid of that handmade blanket! But it is balanced out by the fact that it now has a loving new home. It’s gorgeous and so very HAPPY!

Mary - i love your blog, i visit often but don’t leave comments much, i figure with so many it’s just one more to read…:)
but i want you to know i look forward to each new post.
grace and peace

Seriously Sassy Mama - Valentines is not big at our house either. I tell my girls it is for grown ups. I get my husband a card every year, and the girls the $1 Russel brand chocolate box at Walmart, plus a tiny craft. This year it is a bead heart necklace I got for %50 at Hobby Lobby. I spent $1.50 on each child and they loved it! Personally I would just like someone to do my dishes today, and clean the girls toilet. That would be a great gift! God’s love was the first thing I thought about this morning when I started reading everyone’s Valentine stuff. Have a happy day painting, and yeah to your thrifting.

Molly - 1. love the verse!
2. we don’t go all out for valentines either. And that is fine with me! I do like to give the girls a little something special….like heart shaped marshmallows:)
3. Love the thrift store finds…makes me want to go be thrifty!
4. I had a dream about you last night….my family was driving through Kansas and our car broke down. You tried to fix it with your hair dryer. But we needed a place to stay and you said we could stay with you even though it was craft weekend and your house was already full. I think you even got my husband to do a craft.
5. I am pregnant with #3 and have been dreaming alot:)

Mandy - Love the fish bottle opener!!!
I just painted valentines day cards for my co-workers and it was very therapeutic! Highly recommend diving into that painting above….

Kim - i vote yes to your thrifty finds.
fun, fabulous, and educational too! 🙂
i LOVE that bless this home sign.
LOVE LOVE LOVE. that is a diamond in the rough for sure.
and i’d be snuggling with that valentines blanked 24/7. i love a good pink and red combo. throw in some chevron and you have a big winner. 🙂
happy valentines day!

Lisa McCracken - We celebrate Vday around here, just a little. But I think it’s “over”-celebrated to some degree. But it’s fun!
Can you tell us where you got that amazing print of I Corinthian’s? Is it something that can be purchased?
Thanks! and Happy Valentine’s Day! 🙂

Kim - Nice finds! We really celebrate Valentine’s Day here – it’s my daughter’s birthday. She is such a sweet girl, having a b-day on Valentine’s Day really suits her. So today I am busy making lasagna and brownies, wrapping presents and all that fun stuff.

courtney casper - moses lake?! haha teeny tiny town..right next to my husbands even teenier and tiner home town!
good find!

Holly - love a good thrift store day!

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MONDAY!!!!

February 13, 2012

i had a great weekend!

did you?

my little girls had their first indoor soccer game of the season.
annie never stops wiggling, dancing, jumping or kicking the entire game.
oh and also she hugs.
her teammates.
🙂

talby scored a goal….played tough.
she loves soccer!
how about those lime green shirts?! wowza.

my mother in law took annie and scott with her onto sean's tournament where craig already was.
i had a quiet afternoon of organizing in the craft weekend room.

folding all the fabric again and seeing how much i have.
organizing it by color.

this order came this week….new fabric is just the happiest package to get in the mail.

i found some new material at hancocks fabric this week too.
i love this one.

i know it looks like nursing scrubs from the pediatrician's office.
BUT it is happy and sweet and i love it anyway.
🙂

done.
folded….sorted….cute.
CHECK.

i feel much more ready for this Whatever Craft Weekend than the one just last month.
it is a great feeling.

i took talby to a volleyball clinic late saturday afternoon.
then everyone came back home and my mother in law took three to her house for a sleep over.
i love when that happens!
they love to go and it's nice to change it up around here.

with all that childcare….craig and i were WILD and CRAZY!
we sat on our computers and balanced bank accounts, recorded mileage and organized things for taxes.

pretty hot right?

smokin.

our sunday was church, watching club volleyball for lauren and basketball for sean and some arby's drive through for lunch and pizza hut for dinner.
and a two hour nap….sooo good.

i hope i can share the sermon from sunday with you soon.
i thought it was really good.
i was challenged.
and i laughed really LOUD.
do you ever get the giggles when it is completely NOT appropriate?
i used to do that a lot but now i am mature.
ha!
totally kidding.

my bible study this week with BSF has been on 1 Corinthians.
i have enjoyed spending more time with God this week.
i was missing that.

don't hold back.

and this morning i woke up to SNOW!
i love snow.
it makes me happy (in the beginning 🙂

happy monday.

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Lasso the Moon - I get the giggles at the worst times. Especially at church. I wrote a poem about it a few years back that you might think is funny:
http://lassothemoon.typepad.com/lasso_the_moon/2007/02/poetry_wednesda_1.html
Just catching up on your blog after a few weeks away. It’s so homey and inviting.
Thanks
Anna

catie - i just love when everything is all organized and pretty looking! love the fabrics all together, makes me want to create something. and, hey, i recognize the town name on those soccer shirts, my husband works there! 😉

Jacci - by the way, i’m loving your Ta Dot stash. I think that’s my favorite right now… the stone. Perfect.

Jacci - love the (new?) white buckety bins for the fabric. The bright white is so pretty with the bright fabrics. especially with the silvery insides & rim. good job getting on things ahead of time! it’s nice to feel organized. i think. not sure i can actually remember the feeling. ha.
the rainbow fabric made me think of Care Bears and 2nd grade. I had a slumber party for my birthday that year and got Birthday Bear… and one of the slumber party guests STOLE him. At least, I never found him again after that night.
Happy Monday!

Becki - I love all the fabric, and I love the Scripture too. It does feel great to spend time with the Lord…

Julia - Youre totally about the scrubs! So funny – I would have got in anyway too.

Kim from Miracle-Round - I so love organizing everything by colour! It’s so happy!

Jen Brandt - Happy post! Love your new fabric! Sounds like a busy, but fun weekend. Here’s to a continuation of fun and great. Oh, and your hot night sounds a lot like our hot dates.

amanda peters - Hey so I got my latest copy of Popular Photography in the mail today and YOU were on the back cover!! Congrats!!

Kimberly Dial - Looks like you all had a great weekend! Your fabrics are fab … I love all the bright colors. I’m a little afraid of color but I’m trying to be brave & add pops of it here & there … Just thinking about taxes makes me feel short of breath (I wait until the very last minute EVERY year) CW always looks so fun … I’m hope to make it there … some day! 😉

casey - I LOVE reading your blog everyday! It’s like sitting down for a quick cup of coffee with an old friend (c:

Sarah @ Handbags*N*Pigtails - Fabric pictures always make me a happy lady:) You should see my stash here. I could host my own CW sometime. Wanna come? I can host and you girls who normally slave over everyone else can be pampered:) You’d feel right at home in my house…big and old like yours:)
Have a great night!

Amber Bray - Meg, where do you buy your fabric online? The idea of it worries me because I can’t put my hands on it and know its a decent quality, but we only have two small quilt shops and a joanne’s here. I need more funky cool stuff! : ) Thanks in advance!

happygirl - I’d be so interested to hear about the sermon you heard on sunday. I skipped church. It was snowing. I was tired. excuses, excuses… My husband and I worked on our taxes. sexy.

Whitney - I’m in love with all of those fabrics!!! 🙂
That is a HOT weekend… 🙂 Kinda sounds like mine 🙂
Thank you for this verse, my friend (really) has been down today and I know that this one will perk her up! I love your blog MEG!

Marianne - Ha ha ha. Can’t wait to get our tax preparation on around here…

Kelly - Would love to know more about the bible study that you are doing?

Christy - Sounds like my kind of weekend! I think you were plenty organized for our craft weeekend. Is it bad that I’m jealous of the new crafters?!? I want it to be my turn again! 🙂

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hi…..

February 9, 2012

i want to make this cake….my kids would LOVE it.

a commenter yesterday told me about this site.…a Childs Own.
i was in awe.
the poor girl is so swamped with work though. i wish i could help her out!
she is an amazing artist!
my kids loved it too.
they kept thinking of which of their drawings would be the best to send in.
🙂
i think they think it's a contest….
annie quickly drew this picture for that blog.

a rainbow bus!!! love that….and those cookies too.
mmmm.

i am sitting here in the crafting/dining room….surrounded and nearly buried in the things to prepare for the Whatever Craft Weekend #3.
i had a successful day today getting supplies and using my time well.
(that can be translated as….i had time for starbucks without having to speed on my way to the bus stop)

do you see i found cupcake fabric that is glittered?! hello?!!
(brother sister design studio fabric from hobby lobby) (and my planner is from erin condren)

this is my little crafty cave.

——————————————–——————–———————–————————-———————

so this has been on my mind to share with you lovely ladies…..

i was driving in my car and listening to a christian music station.
the DJ came on and said who the song was by and then said something like:

"there are so many people that think they need to change before God will love them"

they say that in church, in books, on the radio.
i have heard that probably over a hundred times in my life.
but all of a sudden

I HEARD IT.

and i felt so sad in my heart.

do people REALLY think that?
Are there people that think that God won't love them if they are flawed?
That they have to be fixed and pretty and better before God would want them?

if that is you….if that is what you were taught or what you have told yourself….

IT IS NOT TRUE.

You cannot do anything in your life to make God love you more.

You cannot do anything in your life to make God love you less.

HE IS LOVE.
He loves you….right now.
in your mess.
in your heartache.
in your despair.
in your mistakes.
in your anger.
in your grief.
in your fear.
in your depression.
in your loneliness.
in every teeny tiny corner of your very being…..

HE LOVES YOU.
no matter what you did ten years ago, last month or today.
He is ready to welcome you into His open arms.
all you have to do is ASK.

i hope you know that deep and unfailing and unENDING and never changing LOVE from God and Jesus.

"Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick." Matthew 9: 12

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."
Matthew 11:28

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Helen Wall - Wow Meg. Thanks for the God’s love reminder for all your blog readers. What a great way to share the Gospel of Jesus!! Bless you!

kids shorts - I think there’s a truth that with every little things that you made for your little kids they appreciate it without you knowing.

Amber - Love this. Pinned it!

Victoria - Well said! I was one of those people in the past….thankful that I know the truth now! 🙂

Sonya - Lil' Soak + Friends - thanks for the encouragement. BTW, I love your crafty cave. I wish we had a big enough space to have one…..so loving it!

beth - What a lovely, heart-wrenching, beautiful reminder.

zina zraikat - HI Meg, great post. Love the link to the Childs Own Studio, but did you read how asked if we could NOT share her site right now? she writes ” Let’s keep Child’s Own Studio a secret for a while? Don’t share this website with your friends, pin me on Pinterest, post about me on facebook or blog about me. Yes, shhhhhhh….until I catch up.”
Please dont take me the wrong way, i mean no rudeness or disrespect by this comment. Just wasn’t sure if you’d seen it.
xx
Z

Jenna - I needed this: the happiness of the softies (wow!) and the message. Thank you!

Nicolle W. - I am reading a new book and just read this line last night, and it hit me like a ton of bricks. I loved this. It might have changed me forever…….
Jesus loves us not because we’re perfect, but because He is perfect.
so simple, but so profound! 🙂

Kristin S - 1. Thank you Meg for this sweet reminder.
2. Read the cover of your planner and realized you and Craig have rhyming names. No wonder people can’t learn English! In what world are “aig” and “eg” the same sound.
3. That cupcake glitter fabric is ridiculous. Has Annie seen it?

Tonya Blais - Thanks for allowing God to speak through your heart… to mine!

Lisa Currie-Gurney - <3
HUGS FROM MY HEART

Molly - Thanks so so so much for sharing! Aint that the truth!! It doesn’t matter…HE loves you!!
Oh and btw where is the yellow chevron from…love it!!!

Valerie @ Chateau A La Mode - What a beautiful post Meg!

Jill - AMEN Meg! AMEN! <3

Blakeley - I saw these on Pinterest and thought of your family. Rainbow pancakes!! Don’t they look awesome?? I can’t wait to try them.
http://iambaker.net/rainbow-pancake-sugar-cookies-winnie-the-pooh

bread and jam - There’s a verse in Romans…too lazy..can only move my fingers to type right now…it says something like…if God loved us when we were sinners (and His enemy) how much more must He love us now….that’s right…when we’re messed up and lost and broken down wrecks, He REALLY loved us, so, wow, He must REALLY REALLY love us when we accept Christ into our hearts.

Kristyn - Thanks for linking to my Oreo Cake. I really think your kids would LOVE it… so easy and good. 🙂
Also saw that you will be speaking at Snap! So fun – I will be there. We have to meet. 🙂

meaghan - boom! that’s right! now how do i follow you on pinterest?!?!?! can’t find ya!

Marla Rae - wow that’s all just wow! 🙂

Sarah @ Handbags*N*Pigtails - I have a question: Ive been looking for one of thos (pink/purple) suction handles for my sewing rulers for ages. Where did you find them?
Also, did Singer sponsor your CW now? Or did you have to buy all the machines for the ladies to use(Im just bein nosy on that one):)

Gale - AMEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 🙂 I’m so glad you said all that – and I’m even happier to know that our Father would be happy, too – and He loves that we love kids and cupcakes and Craft Weekend and glitter and Him. So glad we all share the same family 🙂
I keep crossing my fingers to be chosen for CW.. LOL!! I can drive there – woohoo!!!! 🙂 Hope you have a wonderful, wonderful time!!

Tina Jacobsen - I love this post!! I love how you use your blog!! I love cupcake fabric!! I love that rainbow bus!! I love cookies and cake!! But most of all I love Jesus!! Thank you Meg!!
Tina

Whitney - Thank you! & AMEN! This was such a good and sweet post!
I love that fabric and that notebook!
I agree with the other lady’s comment asking you to walk around with your camera so that we can all feel like we’re there! 🙂
Have a wonderful weekend Miss Meg!

Mae - Thank you for speaking TRUTH.

Cindy - WOW! I went to Child’s Own! She is amazing, right?! I saw today she has said she is SWAMPED, but I’m still going to share w/everyone about her. She is amazing. So are you…thanks for reminding everyone about God’s grace and God’s love.

Lori Austin - God is using you in great ways Meg!
p.s. l-o-v-e that cupcake fabric.
Have a super weekend.

julie f. - thanks for sharing that, megan!

Wendy - meg- Nailed it. you always do. Thanks for the blog. love this thought. The blog world is rocking my world today. Now to live it! Thanks again. your craft weekends look amazing!
Still am so in love with my family pics that you took! Thanks again for that. Can’t wait to sign up again next year.
-Wendy
🙂 🙂 🙂

angela - you are AHHH.MAZING!
i love your blog – i feel like i know your fam and you. but seeing your message today about HIS love was exactly what i needed to.day.
i used to BELIEVE that. a year ago, i endured one of lifes biggest heartbreaks and my friends kept inviting me to church. i went.
and it CHANGED my life.
but even after going for a few weeks, i still felt NOT WORTH God’s love. a meeting and several classes later with my AWESOME pastor and i got it. I GOT IT.
you and all your GLORY reminded me of it!
thank you from the BOTTOM of my heart!

Lee Ann - Oh and did you see this cake? 🙂 http://www.flickr.com/photos/emily-weaver-brown/4827840735/in/faves-38319530@N03/

andrea - Thank you. I needed to hear that. I have been trying very hard to get back to being close to God again but the devil keeps butting in. Haven’t felt this lost since college. I know in my brain He loves me but needed to hear it in my heart again too. Thanks again, this was what I needed to hear today.

Lee Ann - Thanks for posting that and using your blog to speak TRUTH.

Toni :O) - Continue to love your blog and adore you…your posts are always so relevant and fun!!! Have a blessed weekend cause you are just a rockstar!!! :O)

Kirsten J - Well said, Megan – I have a little story – my mom went to Catholic school until high school and was always pretty strict with us kids about church. Lots of Catholic rules. And we went to confession quite regularly. Finally, somewhere in my teens, I told Mom I had always struggled to find something to “confess”. And Mom said “oh Kirsten, God knows you are good, God is kind and loving. You don’t need to go to confession if you have nothing to say, or to receive God’s love”. I tell you what, I have had such a different perception of God ever since. Absolutely freeing and so much love. I’m happy for you that you got some time to play with crafty stuff (and oh so jealous of those who get to go to CW3)….and aStarbucks run 🙂

Seriously Sassy Mama - I have always loved that verse! Thank you!

Midwest Magnolia - Melissa Lewis - Thanks for sharing this!
My heart has been so heavy the past few weeks with people who have been believing the lies that they need to change for God to love them, or that they aren’t worthy, are that they are all alone. I have 2 dear friends who are suffering from depression, one just checked herself into a facility, afraid of where she was headed, and another (a fellow pastor’s wife) is now in ICU because she wanted to die and almost allowed herself to do so. In the last two weeks, we had two 14 year olds commit suicide. And today, found out a local, unnamed girl, is planning on an abortion for tomorrow at 10:30 am. We are reaching out to her through FB to let her know how in love God is with her and only has good planned for her, that she isn’t alone in this, and that the enemy wants her to believe these lies.
I feel like I want to do something to shed light on this. To let the world know how much God loves them to be aware of the lion that is seeking to destroy. Don’t believe these lies! God is madly in love with you, YOU are his prized position!
Sorry for the long comment Meg, but just interesting to see your words here with the timing of everything going on!

Liana - Amen! One of your best posts, ever.
And I second the flip tour request! 🙂

Charlene @ Adventures In Mommy Land - Oooh love that cupcake fabric….my eyes were drawn straight to it LOL! I only wish we had a Hobby Lobby close by.

Jill - I am so encouraged when you follow God’s leading with your blog! I’ll be praying that everyone hears this the way you did…

Kimberlee Jost - Such truth.
So good…and needed.

Jaime @ Queen of the Creek - Beautiful…. for all of the above. ♥

Heather R. - Amen.

sara @ it's good to be queen - you preach it sister! yes, yes and yes. this is a good word today. God is doing good things with this here blog of yours. blessings blessings, sara

Christy - <3 this post.

jennyonthespot - Cupcake. Glitter. Fabric. BOOM.
P.S. Just thinkin’ of ya, friend… *blows kiss*

Amy G - I love the way you let God speak through your blog.
You are such an inspiration to me in so many ways.
Blessings to you!

Sarah - Yes. Just yes.

Jody - Wow. You’re like a friend I just called & who told me what I needed to hear…I am in the midst of reading “Crazy Love” and feeling like I am coming up very short on the person I am for God. These were kind words to hear – and for some reason – you wrote them just when I needed to hear them.

Alicia - Thank You for your post on Gods love. You have made a difference in my life.

Stephanie - God is love! So true! We actually don’t have to do ANYTHING… not even ASK. He already LOVES US SOOOOOOOO MUCH that He sent Jesus, to die on the cross for us. He loves us…whether or not we are loving Him. And He is and always has been there for us. Some are just rejecting Him. Its like if someone told you they just put $1000 in the bank for you, and all you had to do was go and get it… you would never reap the benefits of that if you just said “nah… you didn’t really, that’s funny though!”
Believe. God DOES LOVE EVERYONE. And its not because of anything we have or haven’t done. We don’t have to do a thing to be loved by God. It is already true and always has been, since before we were born. God loves babies… they haven’t asked for it. God so loved the WORLD… 🙂
Thanks, Meg! 🙂

tara pollard pakosta - I love this post so very much….
love IT> it’s so true, but I forget that all the time,
I think, I can’t go to church because God only wants perfect people there….ugh. need to stop feeling that way.
tara

Laura Phelps - I read this last night
11 minutes after you posted it
It made me cry
a lot
like…A REAL LOT
like..the UGLY cry kind of cry
glad everyone was in bed and didn’t witness it
maybe the wine and exhaustion had something to do with the ugly cry
quite possible
but either way
what you said…
it struck a chord in me
it opened up something inside of me
I know God loves me beyond comprehension
I know how forgiving He is
my trouble is… forgiving myself
a weekly, daily, sometimes minute by minute struggle…
a cross I carry…sometimes beautifully, but most times, with great difficulty
I’d like to toss that cross of mine in the woods out back and set it on fire
but well, that would not teach me anything, now would it?
nope
its mine to carry
its mine to love
its mine to be thankful for
its mine BECAUSE God loves me
anyway
it is morning now
no more tears
but the message is still with me
thank you, my little crafting bundle of awesomeness
love you

Trish - do you ever wonder how many people you will meet when you get to heaven that found their way to Jesus through your blog! won’t that be a fun day?!

Jenn - Its been said before, but its so true….AMEN, Sister! God IS Love! We can’t hear that enough. Thank you and love to you for having such a positive and loving blog.

Katie - nice encouragement!

Laura - Beautiful, Meg! Very well put. Sadly, yes, there are many people who think that. Hopefully fewer because of your post.

Anna - Girl this post rocks! Love it – the glitter cupcake fabric, but more importantly your message!
It irritates me to hear people (esp. Christians) say “We must change, this must be corrected”. While it may be true that changes need to be made, and it does matter to God, the truth is that his love is not conditional! As a believer this should be super simple, but to non-believers it’s hard to get this message across when they may be apporached with criticisms that they need to change just to be loved by God. – So not true.
Thanks for the Message!

Danett - I really needed that today — I really heard it. Great scripture!! Thanks!

tina - So glad I stopped to read your post today!!!!

Kristen - Awh Meg, you’re heart is just pure sweetness with sprinkles all over. I love your spirit.

Kate R - I’ve been lurking for a while (don’t even remember how I found your blog…) but had to stop and comment on this post. Thanks so much for sharing this thought today. I love reading blogs where God is a real part of people’s lives and yours is one 🙂 Thanks!

Catriona - Amen, sister! The world is all about sorting yourself out, but God is all about Jesus having done it all for you. Simple and radical all at the same time.

SaraG - Amen and Amen.

Tracy Fisher - Thanks for your words today. They were appreciated more than you know. Tracy

Ashley - I am so thankful that you posted about this.
I needed to hear it, even if in my head I know it to be true…tonight you spoke to my heart.
Thank you!

Jacci - loving this. thank you 🙂
i have a thought… i wondered if maybe you would consider doing a little flip tour of your house all set up for the next craft weekend (?). Like, before the ladies arrive, you just walk around with the ol’ flip and show us how wonderful it all is 🙂 so we can pretend we’re there, too! and ooh and ahh and want to come to the next one even MORE.
not trying to add to your plate or be demanding… just throwing out a post idea.

Theresa - You are a awesome women of GOD. It is so great of you to post this. I feel inadequate because I am not knowledgeable of scripture so that I can speak of him to others with wisdom. What you have said has helped me…that he loves me anyways. In time I will learn because he has put this on my heart. You posted this right when I needed to hear these words! Thank you!

Lisa - You worded that so beautifully! Praying people “hear” it!

Nikki - What beautiful encouragement! I needed to hear it today.
(also I think I will hunt for that fabric this weekend. Glitter cupcakes.Too fun!)

Heidi Jo the Artist - So true. I think the hardest part is to forgive ourselves, well, at least for me. I too hope people don’t think that God won’t love them until they change.
Oh, that drawing of Annie’s is so awesome! You are pretty awesome at sewing, I bet you could make one of the rainbow bus in 3-D! I want to make so many things with felt right now that I might have to give it a shot! And if you are stretched for time, I bet you could use that rainbow stripe fabric I’ve seen around…since Child’s Own Studio seems kind of backed up. Plus, I’m sure it would be so much meaningful since you made it for her.
And of all people, I thought you would appreciate this! http://pinterest.com/pin/159244536793917916/

Amy @ www.littleforalittlewhile.blogspot.com - Thanks for the reminder:)

Stephanie campbell - <3 love this post.

Tara Provence - just got off the phone with a friend talking about the exact same thing! He IS love. no matter how freakin’ flawed up we are. ♥

Robyn Farmer - Amen! Thank you for sharing that.

Katy @ Live Laugh Love Craft - Oh, FREAK! I gasped when I saw that cupcake fabric. Thank goodness I already scheduled a trip to Hob Lob tomorrow. 🙂 MUST.HAVE.

Jill - You’re the sweetest.

Barbara - Oh, your words are sooooo true, Meg. That He loves any of us is the biggest mystery. Thanks for sharing them!
And I bought the cupcake fabric from HobLob, too. I love it!! I’m making napkins as a gift for my GF’s bday.

Tina I - Thank God (literally) that He loves me, flaws and all!

Alicia - Such a cute idea- kids’ drawings turned into soft toys!
(And also, we have the same Erin Condren planner! Except mine has my ‘teacher name’ on it)

Jill Tracy - So VERY true and what a great reminder for us all. I read your blog religiously and those words may just have been the best I’ve read. Cause really, in the end, that’s what matters most…our relationship with God. Hope your message reaches many 🙂

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - Amen.

DanaD@BoysMyJoys - I sure needed to hear that reminder tonight, Megan!
THANK YOU!!!

Terrie G - Oh.My.Goodness!!! That is ONE TaLenTeD lady!! What a cute idea! I’d love to help her too…but I don’t think I’m that talented!
That is a lot of craft loveliness!!
You are so right about God not loving us more than where we are right now! Thanks for sharing!

Janelle - Thanks Meg…I don’t really think that but I do wish I had a deeper faith…and I often feel badly that I don’t. Thanks for the little pick me up before I go to bed 🙂

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waiting…..

December 26, 2011

you would think i have tons of photos to share of presents and family time.
umm…yeah….i don't.
i just haven't felt like picking up my camera.

BUT i did not have a meltdown. (woo-hoo)
i have had a relaxed and laid back holiday. (double woo-hoo!)
i was able to just go to to bed on christmas eve because i was prepared.
that was a w e s o m e.

this video was played at the end of our church service christmas morning.
they turned out all the lights and it was just this on the big screen.
i was crying by the end.
it's kind of rap….kind of poetry….kind of preaching….definitely praising God.
i hope you enjoy it.

thank you pastor adam for getting this to me.

…………………………….

well…two christmases down….three to go.

so far it has all been lovely.
and i have eaten WAY too much.

way.

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Crystal - Thanks for sharing that video. It got me. 🙂

Emily - great video thanks for sharing it

Carrie - Oh that video. I am crying. Wow.
Thanks for sharing. God is indeed with us.

Gretchen P - powerful video! thank you for sharing, sometimes we need to be reminded we are not in control.

Tracy Fisher - 5 Christmases? You beat me! We had 4 (and even combined 2 into the same day..woo hoo). I loved your holiday posts this year. So real. So loving. So true. I wish you and your family the best in 2012.
Tracy Fisher

Starting a New Business - Very inspirational. Is this a first timer? Hope to see more of your creations.

Randi - That’s Isaac Wimberley doing the spoken word on the video … he’s from my church. Every time I hear that video I get goosebumps and cry … it’s even more amazing in person. It’s the most awesome presentation of the gospel, isn’t it?

Jennifer - love this! thanks for sharing

Valerie @ Chateau A La Mode - Something must be in the air, no meltdowns here either…I let so many things go this year and it was amazing! Merry merry!

Toni :0) - Beautiful and powerful! Thank you for sharing! :0)

Jenny B. - I also have same concern/question as Sarah @ Handbags*N*Pigtails. Coming home on Christmas Eve Eve after having Christmas with my family is what put me over the edge. That mound of toys, no where to put it all, and still more to open! I just have two boys, and I have been wondering how families with more children handle it all. And how do you (or anyone) get the grandparents to stop buying so. much. stuff. ? I feel guilty for being stressed about having too much when so many have too little, and I just keep thinking that there’s got to be a better way. I said, “I hate Christmas” more times than I want to admit this year, and it just shouldn’t be that way. Anyway… Sorry to vent! But, I just wondered if you had any tips. 🙂

Jenny B. - That’s awesome that you didn’t have a meltdown. I thought I was going to make it through this year without one… but sadly, no. It is a definite goal for next year, though! 🙂 I’m so thankful we went to our church’s Christams Eve service. I didn’t want to go (so much stress and stuff to do at home), but it was just what I needed.

Beth - Beautiful. Meaningful. Powerful.

Lindsey Jo - that video is awesome!

jennifer - Yay for no meltdowns! None here either. Just a nice peaceful day.
Merry Christmas to you and your family!!!

Kelly - Wow. Thank You, Jesus!

happygirl - Rap isn’t my favorite, but this was very good. Thanks for sharing. I’ve eaten WAY too much, too. And I had the best Christmas, EVER… Love Christmas. 🙂

Holly - very good video! Without Christmas there would be no Easter!

Lori Austin - I was meltdown free also this year. So thankful for that.
Powerful video. Thank you.
Enjoy the remaining celebrations.

Kelly - Thanks for sharing this video. Wishing you all God’s best in 2012!

Kayla - I would have loved to experience that video in a darkened church….very powerful! Is your pastor Adam Hamilton? Good luck with the rest of your Christmases! I pray for no meltdowns….from anyone in your family!

Sarah @ Handbags*N*Pigtails - Hooray for being present in your Christmas celebrations!!!!!! Making memories is the most important thing for us…and our families. Capturing them is the next best thing:)
And wow, I though we had alot of Christmases to attend with 3. You have 5?! Question:how do you keep up with all the new STUFF coming into the house? Each year the grandparents ask for a list and I make it. This year they stuck to it well but still went (way) over and beyond. And now the living room is chock full. I know they just want to bless us but it gets overwhelming. Id love any suggestions.

Southern Gal - It didn’t play for me, but if it’s what I think it is it’s an awesome video. They play it at our church around Easter.
I made my kids stand in front of the Christmas tree yesterday just so I’d have a picture of all of them “on Christmas Day”. Ha! I was too busy watching a granddaughter say, “Wow” and “Oh!” all day long to get many photos. You’ve got memories and that’s what counts.

flowerpowermomma - “thank You God for blessing Megan with peace, no meltdowns and good rest. ”
amen

Trudy - I know how you feel about not wanting to pick up the camera. I hope I don’t regret it someday, but it seems I’m just out of gas these days.
Thank you for sharing the video and your love of Christ for all to see. Definitely using your blog for all the right reasons. Thank you.

Lisa - Thank you so much for sharing that video. My husband is a pastor and we are in the beginning stages of starting a new church. An adventure of trusting God and being obedient to say the least. Anyway, I know he would LOVE this video and would want to use it on a Sunday. So powerful!

kim - ugh. so glad i listened to the whole thing. the best part is the end.
truly the message of Christmas engraved on my heart this season is EMMANUEL. God WITH us. Unreal. Crazy. In the best way possible.

Dana @ Bungalow'56 - The video…Just beautiful Megan.
I didn’t feel like picking up my camera much either.
Just wanted to be present.
Enjoy the rest of your holiday.
God Bless and Merry Christmas,
Dana

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a little surprise…..

June 1, 2011

my mailbox was a happy place on saturday!

aren't they BEAUTIFUL?!!
my girls were so excited….can we keep them???…are they for us??….do these go on our beds???
SO HAPPY.

they are made by chrissie grace.
she is so talented.
her shop is full of color and creativity.
you will love it over there.

she sent me a collage of the many different examples of the pillows she has made.

chrissie's description:

Each name (or word) is hand embroidered.
The scripture or quote is free hand embroidery on my machine.

The pillows are all envelope style so they can be washed if needed.

These are custom order pillows with any names…they don't just have to be first names.

They can be last names or words with meaning…like grace, faith, etc. and have corresponding scripture.

SO….chrissie came up with an incredible idea.
and i could not have been more excited to jump on board and tell you all about it.

we are calling it…..

my friend AMY is adopting a boy named Davis through Reese's Rainbow!!!

. . . D A V I S . . .
i am so excited for her family!!!!!
proud of her.
love her heart in every way.

chrissie's idea was simple and lovely….AND A SURPRISE!!
we are telling amy about it right now at the same time as telling you.
YAY!

GO TO CHRISSIE'S SHOP….

pick out a beautiful pillow…..any pillow…..and 25% of that sale will go to bring DAVIS home to amy!!

think ahead to christmas or birthdays.
my girls LOVE these.
they would make a great christmas present!

IMG_4180-8

i just can't stop smiling about this.

amy….we are so happy to help bring Davis to your arms as soon as possible.

🙂

to God be all the Glory…the Giver of ALL gifts….and the One who Loves and Created Davis for YOU.

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add a comment

New Timberland - I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don’t know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often.

Guy Chambliss - Me too! I loved the idea of making these pillows all for a good cause. And your girls are all lovely as well. Did Amy already adopt baby Davis? Now I’m getting excited for both of them!

alicia @ la famille - love these pillows! and what a great idea!

Mique - In loooove with these pillows. Just tweeted about it. Will FB too. And off to go shopping….

Trina McNeilly - Love these pillows… beautiful. We are about to make our summer list for the 2nd year.. thanks to your inspiration!
xo

melanie - i am so excited! i have been looking for a special present for my girlie’s 2nd birthday this month. hooray

Vicki - Okay, first of all–I love the picture of your adorable girlie-girls holding their pillows, and I love that they asked if they could keep them (so sweet!). Those pillows are beautiful. I think I need one to keep, too! : )

AshleyAnn - beautiful.

hannah - awesome, ladies!! thanks! what a treat to help little davis come HOME! xo

Elizabeth - I ordered a pillow for my daughter — I couldn’t resist and am happy to help in some small way!

tamara - I love the pillows…I love Reece’s Rainbow and I really LOVE that your friend Amy is adopting Davis. My 3 year old son has Down syndrome….knowing that Davis will soon have a loving family warms my heart beyond description. I will be buying some pillows!

jenni - The pillows are beautiful! Works of art, for sure. And what a special, generous way to keep the giving going…

Leslie - How pretty!!!

Kimberlee Jost - The entire thing is genius and awesome.

Karen Gerstenberger - I’m so excited – I just ordered one for my dad for Father’s Day! She is customizing it with his name (Philip) and a Bible verse that I chose for him! Thanks for the wonderful idea, Meg!

JustMommer - I was in love with the mother pillow and bought it before I even paged down to see about Davis. Doubled my happiness.

Julie - I am in love. Everything that Chrissie Grace touches is meaningful and lovely. I am excited for Amy. Excited for Davis. Excited to see how God moves.

se7en - Just fabulous!!!

Amy - Just ordered mine!!! Can hardly wait. I bought one for my BFF’s daughter who has lived her entire 11 months in the pediatric Cardiac ICU. This is a perfect gift for her!! And a double blessing in helping bring Davis home. Thanks, Meg. Now I need to order more for my kids. 😉

Karen Gerstenberger - What a great idea!

www.google.com/accounts/o8/id?id=AItOawnWAYJUVwunRUecGE5XKOtWTZWNawY5sCg - Wow What beautiful pillows and a beautiful heart! Thanks for sharing!I will check out her site.
Cyndi
http://acharmedlife08.blogspot.com/

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - Oh, those are so sweet! Thank you so much for this opportunity to help bring home another child of God!

Jen Brandt - I think I’m in love. I want one of these pillows for each of my girls!

mel @ the larson lingo - be still my heart…..these pillows are AMAZING.
And the cause? even more Amazing!
Off to check out her shop. Thank you for posting!

Lisa - Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful! The pillow and the idea. These adoption posts make me cry. Every time.

Kerry - these are adorable!! and what a fab idea for Davis. you GO girls xx

Laura Phelps - Annie is such a great name…:-)
i LOVE these
I LOVE that she is using her God given talents to make a difference in a person’s life
if we ALL did that, could you imagine the world we would live in?
off to look at the pillows…
I am thinking TEACHER at the end of the school year…
or FATHER for Father’s day….
and I do love a simple word as a reminder…
so many pillows I could think up!!!

Prudence - I love these pillows, alot of work they are! and beautiful, a great gift idea..

Sarah Wolfe - Amazingly cute. Love everything about these! 🙂

happygirl - Gorgeous pillows and a MORE BEAUTIFUL spirit. God bless this project. 🙂

Taryn - Beautiful!!! The pillows, the vision, Davis, the whole thing….just beautiful!!!!

Courtney - LOVE this! Just ordered one for my daughter. Amazing talent and wonderful that proceeds go toward a great cause. LOVE!!

Terrie - LOVE these! Will have to bookmark her page and have her make one when my grandbaby is born!

Libby - Those pillows are ADORABLE!! Great, great idea!

Danielle - So happy for Amy and little Davis! Thank you Meg and Chrissie Grace for your giving hearts! You ladies rock!!!

Southern Gal - Beautiful pillows and a wonderful cause!

pam - “free hand embroidery on my machine”!!!!!! That is some crazy talent. I’m so glad that she gifted you so we could find her. WOO HOO…these are so cool.

Kelli - LOVE these!! So cute!

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life.

May 5, 2011

annie received this little tiny pot with 5 sunflower seeds and dirt for easter from her nana.
the pot is no more than 2 inches tall.
we followed the instructions and it is growing!
she yelled excitedly "it's even still wearing it's seed cap!"
she has been learning a lot about seeds at school.

IMG_1362-1

i remember my first time gardening in our first house.
i was AMAZED and couldn't believe that all you do is put the plant or seed in the ground….
water it….
and it grew!

i was hooked.

we have a mama bird right outside our door.
i love her.
today i was so curious…i had to find out what she was protecting….and how many.

three perfect lovely blue eggs.
isn't that miraculous?
really?!
there are living birds growing inside those gorgeous blue eggs RIGHT NOW!
life is so fantastically awesome!

we watched her work for a few days on this nest.
she made a MESS.
but look at it now!
it's like a finely crafted masterpiece.
just her size.
just right for three babies.

i am in awe of how God made this world.
creating a bird….to build a magnificent home for herself…making eggs…keeping them warm!
and that is just ONE animal.
there are like….a million different kinds of animals and living beings!
each unique and equally fascinating.

wow.

i'm not going to go all "double rainbow" on you….don't worry.

what's really on my mind is…….my grandmother loves birds.
bird watching was her thing.
and she is not doing so well right now.
she is 94 and has had a rough 2 weeks.
she loves my blog and it makes me really sad to think she won't see this post.
because she would have LOVED it.
it may have been her favorite.

i am not sure i am loving this part of my grown up life right now.
hospitals and phone calls and hard decisions having to be made and seeing your dad cry.
it's stressful to go through or even just to observe your parents deal with it.
it's just so…..

grown up.

God is still good and crazy awesome even when our bodies don't do what we want them to.
or we get sick.
or we grow old.
we can still praise Him for every thing we have and have experienced, everything HE is.
and He'll comfort us when it's sad or too hard.

my hope is in that.

and birds are awesome.

except geese.
they are still creepy and psycho.

the other thing my grandma loved more than birds was gardening.
so i am going to do that all day today.

for grandma.

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www.bkjobs.co.il - Nice post regarding life. Every one is struggle for survive include bird, animal and human being. I like your post. There are many similarities between them to survive the life.

Natalie - This post really tugged on my heart. My grandmother just passed this week, on Wednesday, at age 93. I know exactly what you mean about watching your dad cry and feeling that grown-up sadness.. it’s heartbreaking. I am holding on to the hope that she is in Heaven and happier than she’s ever been, after living a long and full life on earth. How sweet it must be to see Jesus after so long! Thank you for the reminder of God’s goodness!

the.mrs - Thank you for the beautiful post. Really awesome to be reminded of God’s amazing truths and creation. Your family is in my prayers!
(on another note, LOVE love LOVE the new banner!)

JustMommer - I’m sorry about your Grandma. My mom is on hospice right now, we are staying with her around the clock, spending as much precious time with her as we can. My dad died in November, in early spring the tulips and daffodils he had planted bloomed, it was like he said hello. I’m praying for you and your family.

Karen - Blessings to you and yours, Meg. It’s a tough time, but anyone who can appreciate things like gardening and bird watching, is probably OK with meeting the creator of all things. Keep that in mind and heart, and remember, it’s in HIS control for the good of all who believe.
On a lighter note, get back to us on how much you appreciate those birds on your porch after weeks and weeks of bird poop building up underneath, not just from one busy little mommy bird, but also three messy babies, toddlers, then teenage birds until they fly the coop! 🙂 Been there. Done that. I appreciate them just as much…and more…..from afar. 🙂

flowerpowermomma - Some days are hard.
http://momofthebridemusings.blogspot.com/2011/05/my-nitty-gritty.html
I”m working on the ‘breath in….breath out’ concept currently.
Not only did my grandmother enjoy nature and creativity. She had beautiful white hair. When her hair brush needed cleaning she would take the clump of hair and put it out in the trees so the birds could feather their nests with it.
Not too long ago I was cleaning out my hairbrush. I looked down to see my grandmothers hair in my hand!
I was not sad to see so many white ones….it kept my connection closer to her in fact.

Kelly - Megan, even before I got to the part about your grandma I felt so blessed by this post. I have spent the day at the hospital with my sweet, wonderful mother who was having surgery for breast cancer. Yuck, yuck, yuck. Being a grown up is hard and yet a privilege and I am so thankful for your reminders and LIFE and how cool and wonderful God is! Yes, yes, yes! Those eggs are splendid! He didn’t even have to make them beautiful but He did! So wonderful. I am so sorry about your grandma. I am so thankful for hospitals and at the same time it’s hard to spend time in them. Blessings on your night and the morrow. Kelly

Nicole - {{Hugs}} to you and your family Meg. We just walked this road this year with my grandpa. {I miss him like crazy.} Praying for the peace of God to surround all of you. Your in my thoughts and prayers.
P.S.
Your photography is beautiful.

Amy @ dwell in the season - A mama bird just made a nest right outside of our place too, and we discovered 3 little eggs just like yours yesterday! You’re right, what a miracle!
-Amy

Jen Joy - I love this post. LOVE. LOVE. LOVE.
After I read it, I said a prayer for your grandma. When I water my flower garden this evening, I will think of her and say another little prayer. May she be scooped up in the magesty of God’s love when the time comes.
This all makes me miss my grandma. She’s been gone for 4 years now. When I miss her, I make a pie. Chocolate cream with a ridiculous amount of Cool Whip, thank you very much. It makes me feel like she’s in the same room. Probably because she is. 🙂

Andrea T - i relate to your post ALOT. my mom is going through a rough patch with her health right now. i think it is so sweet that you gardened all day for your grandma bc she loves it that is such a great way to honor her!

Karen Gerstenberger - I’m sending love and prayers for comfort and strength to you and your family, Meg. xoxoxo

shauna reed - you are not alone.
my seven year old would tell you “at least you have your family”
i would tell you, “have a good cry Meg” that always makes my feel a little better.
it doesn’t fix any of this broken world and make the pain and suffering go away, but at least it does something with the emotions besides come out in anger on every one else.
just a thought.
my heart is with you friend.

Rachel B - This was a beautiful post! Beautiful.

Dawn - Those were amazing pictures and I love the color of those eggs.
Also thinking of you and your family during this tough time.

Kristin S - 1. ADORE the new blog header.
2. That is quite possibly the most perfect color blue. Only God could/would have that kind of creativity.

Jenny B. - I’m so sorry about your grandma. I’m learning that each season of life has its own joys and challenges. I wouldn’t have guessed that mama bird’s eggs would be such a beautiful bright blue color. I hope you enjoyed your day of gardening for Grandma.

Julie - prayers for you and your family tonight…this was a beautiful post.

betsy - Sending some warm thoughts your way about your Grandma. I’m sure she’d love this post!
P.S. That egg color is amazing! I can’t believe colors like this exist in nature!

wendy, NJ - Oh Meg, I can so feel the sadness you are feeling about your Grandma. My Gram was 92 when she went to be with Jesus. Due to distance, I unfortunately didn’t get to really know her until the last 6 years of her life. She was incredible. Her passion of nature and gardening sounds very similar to your Grandma.
And it’s ok if you go double rainbow on me because I believe that when I see a rainbow (or a double rainbow) that it’s my grandparent’s looking down on me. You see when we buried both of my grandfathers and my grandmothers they were dreary days, but at the end of the day a rainbow appeared. So I consider it a beautiful thing!
Hugs to you!!

Erin - Happiness. Wonderment. Sadness. Hope. So many emotions went through me while reading this post. Might be my favorite one to date. I can’t imagine what this feels like. Prayers for your Grandma…your dad…you…and your children. Much <3 being sent to you!

karen - lol at the “i’m not going to go all “double rainbow” on you”!!
Sweet post.

Liz Prince - My grandma is going through the EXACT same thing right now too. She is 95. Been in the hospital 3 different times in the past 3 weeks. Doctor says there is nothing more to do but take her home and make her comfortable. I am sad. Not for my Nana but for my dad. He adores him mom. And soon she will be gone and it will be my dad’s generation that will take over with the “aging.” And I will be taking care of him and my mom. Circle of life ya know? Anyway sorry for rambling but know that I am thinking of your grandma as I think of my own.
Keep up your honesty and being real. I look forward to getting my “meg” fix everyday. You rock! 🙂

Charlotte - i too am going through a lot of “grown up” things…taking care of my aging mom….surgeries and aftercare….emergency hospital stay with the hubs…a child with multiple teeth extractions..etc., etc…..being strong for everyone, has left me weak and weary. your post was uplifting…thanks for sharing your little mama bird’s eggs..they are indeed a miracle. 🙂
xo

Charlotte - i too am going through a lot of “grown up” things…taking care of my again mom….surgeries and aftercare….emergency hospital stay with the hubs…a child with multiple teethe extractions..etc., etc…..being strong for everyone, has left me weak and weary. your post was uplifting…thanks for sharing your little mama bird’s eggs..they are indeed a miracle. 🙂
xo

Diana - Sending up many prayers for your grandma. xx

Mindy Harris - you are precious.
just precious.

Renee - I know what you mean about grown-up stuff. Both my grandparents passed away last year (I am 35, too!). I had many lunches alone with my Dad as he cried on my shoulder and I prayed for him. It is even more difficult to understand how he and my mom are now the oldest generation. Both mid 60s. But times heals. And I enjoy every day reminders of my grandparents- each so special. Especially my Lydie-girl who walk around with my Nana’s name!! Praying for you now.

Jenny Logan - Love this post! I’m praying for your Grandma. (and you & your family.)

Liana - Oh my goodness. I could have written your post, Grandma in declining health, Dad crying, bird loving, gardening…but we are both 35 so I guess it makes sense that we are both in the same place. My grandma died on Monday. I’m happy that she’s happy and healed and with her love (Grandpa) again…but it is still hard. How lucky to have had 35 years with her! Your family is in my prayers!

Laura Phelps - your grandma and I would get along beautifully
I am tight with the birds 🙂

Amy - My ‘hubby’ just gave me a new sewing machine so I could get back into sewing. Sitting and staring at it brings back so many memories of my grandma from when I was younger. She sewed all my clothes and taught me to sew at a young age. Man I miss her!

happygirl - I LOVE Robin egg blue. It’s my favorite blue. Hugs to you, friend.

crystal - I just can’t believe this post…I love it! What is so strange, just seconds (literally just seconds) before I read it, I’m sitting at the dining room table on the computer about to open up your blog, and I’ve been seeing this same type bird here on our back patio for the last couple weeks, and it landed on the ceiling fan today, I wanted to jump up & get my camera & take some pictures of it, but my memory card is in the bedroom & hubby is fast asleep after a late night at work, so I decided to wait & will try to photograph it another time. I just couldn’t believe it when it was the first thing I saw after opening your blog! Great minds think alike, right?!

Beth - Simply beautiful! Life is beautiful and sometimes the not so good news. However, the end is even more beautiful!
Hugs to you, Meg! I know it must be hard on you and your family! I lost mine when I was in my early 20’s. I do hope your granmother gets better! Enjoy your gardening today.
Love your new header!

shannon - Hi Meg! I don’t know if you read all your comments or not. So you may or may not get to mine but it just made me feel better to know I wrote something to you. Your post made me cry. I totally understand and I believe the same as you….I don’t like being a grown up sometimes. I am learning more and more how fragile life can be….my gparents whom I have not been all that close to until the last 2 years or so….are getting older…in their 80s….and their family members, their age, keep getting ill and passing on and I know in my head it’s only a matter of time and I have been trying to prepare my heart but I just cannot do it. They are, on all accounts pretty healthy, but I know the day will come. It makes me sad….and I know God is there to comfort me….it’s just…hard. 🙁

Ryanne - Wow, what a wonderful post on this dreary day. Thank you. I am sorry about your grandma.

Sandy - “I’m not going to go all double rainbow on you”…you’re SO funny! 🙂

Staci - Oh Megan, I”m so sorry to hear about your grandma 🙁 Yes, being a grown up does suck in these times…I will be praying for her…and you too! And those eggs…yes, completely awesome! We had a pair of geese (I KNOW!!!! They are mean little suckers!) at our pond that were nesting….she RARELY left that nest….and when she did…it was for a quick little swim (Man do I get that…she JUST needed time away!) and the funny thing…the daddy goose was flapping his wings at her…letting her know he didn’t think this was a good idea….and she just kept on swimming and then went back after a brief few moments to herself 😉 We would watch every morning at those two….my husband I LOVED it!!! Sad to report…something did eat their little eggs…circle of life…it’s a sad, tough thing. God is amazing to give us all these things to adore…if only for a little while 😉

jess - oh my goodness meg…my thoughts and prayers with you and your family. I was just thinking the same thing, in the last year i have watched my parents health go downhill and our conversations that use to be short and sweet are now filled with health and medical talk….this chapter in my life will be most challenging i’m afraid. on another note…i am in awe at how beautiful those eggs are….the color!!!!!

Alisha - I know exactly how you feel. I think about having to do the same with my grandparents who are now in their mid 80’s and the thought is unbearable. My prayers are with you and your family.

Flower Patch Farmgirl - I love that God made that perfect shade of aqua, just for us. I don’t think I’ve ever thought about it before this post…and I’m not sure it exists anywhere else in nature? I mean, maybe on a tropical island, somewhere. But definitely not in Indiana.

Maegan - Meg, I loved this post. I was recently thinking the same thing. That life is so amazing…that there are tiny baby birds growing in there! However, my four year old found a broken egg that had obviously been dropped/fallen, and it made me think about sin and how awful it is. But our hope is in Christ! We need not fear death!

Shannon - You putting my Sonic sign on your list of Happy Things makes me SUPER HAPPY! 🙂

Molly Pearce - I will be praying for you and your family Meg! Love the color of the bird egg’s! I have a chicken that lays teal green eggs and they are gorgeous too! My granny loved birds as well and had a ton of porcelan musical birds all over her house! I used to love waking up in the mornings and hear her crank the handle and hear the little song sing! That’s one o fmy favorite memories 🙂
~Molly P

Sarah - I love those eggs. So humbling.

Beth - Thank you Meg! I needed this, my husband’s Grandma had a stroke this morning. He used you to speak to me today.

Jennifer - Meg, I lost my grandmother very unexpectedly in March. My BFF lost her aunt in December and her uncle last week. We too have decided that this part of our lives is going to have new challenges that we don’t feel prepared for. It’s going to be an adjustment for sure. I hope your grandmother makes a recovery and you get to enjoy her a little longer. Your post was beautiful and I hope she will be able to see it soon.

Jennifer O'Steen - i found this & it reminded me of you.
http://cookingwiths.blogspot.com/2011/05/i-heart-sonic.html

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - Dearest Meg, I am so sorry to hear that about your grandmother. Your family will be in my prayers. Please enjoy your gardening day! I hope it is extra special!

Terrie - Beautiful eggs!
Prayers going up for your Grandma. I understand about the not liking this whole grown up thing sometimes! My 1st grandbaby is on the way…while I’m over-the-moon excited for that…it made me think that my Dad is gong to be a Great-Greandpa. Yeah! On the one hand, I was so excited…then the whole stupid circle of life thing hits me and it was like…Holy Crum! My Dad is going to be a Great-Grandpa!! I’m not ready for his to be the next generation to go!! None of us are promised tomorrow…I know that…and like you, I know that God is in control! But, sometimes, it’s just HARD!
Sidenote…LOVE your new header! Made me smile when I saw it! I have one similar with pretty spring colored skittles! 🙂
Just saw on Hoda & Kathie Lee…ivillage is doing a contest about hot dads…I had to think of you and all your wonderful ‘hot’ comments about Craig. Winner gets some kind of WEEK long cruise vacation…I think you should check it out and enter! Think of the awesome pics we could see of the trip! I’d even volunteer to do crafts with the kids while you were gone!
Have a HaPpY ThuRsDaY!!! I’m off to have some fun with 1st graders!

Kim - I lost my grandfather about 16 years ago now. I still miss him. He never got to meet my kids, and he would have gotten a kick out of them for sure. I hope you enjoy your day gardening,watching birds and enjoying the sunshine while loving your grandmother.

jes - how beautiful. i (obviously) dont know your grandma but i am positive she would have loved it.
sending love and peaceful thoughts your way…
hope the sun shines on your gardening day.

amber - Double rainbow….funny, funny stuff.
I have one grandmother left. Her heart is showing it’s age. She’s had a hard life. I was just thinking last night about how much she’s gone through, & yet has lived so long (83). I wonder how she feels about feeling so bad all the time. It stinks. I’m praying for your grandmother. Peace & comfort, no matter the outcome.
I love grandma’s. And how God knows exactly what He is doing.

Sarah@this farm family's life - loved this! praying for your grandma and your family…

mel @ the larson lingo - those eggs are the most beautiful turquoise color! How neat!
So sorry to hear about your grandma, I will be praying for her & that she gets better quickly! Have fun gardening….the gardening bug bit me this year & I got my garden started last week. So much fun!

adrienne - i love how you captured the bird and her blue eggs! what a fun surprise for your when you finally got up there! great pictures, great post… sending lots of love and prayers your way.

Jenna - Tears … this post hit close to home with me. What better way to honor our loved ones than by celebrating or doing the things they loved? I’ll say a prayer for you, your grandma, and your dad.

Kacey - Beautiful post. Prayers for your grandma and your family.
Kacey

mandy friend - and if you want to see a funny old movie that kinda sorta includes bird watching rent Mr. Hobbs takes a vacation. hilarious!

mandy friend - prayers for your granmother meg. just remember , if He took such care creating those robins in all their beauty, how much more care He took to create the beautiful life your grandmother must have lived and is living. i haven’t had to face it yet, but my grandfather isn’t doing so well either, and he doesn’t know the Lord…
“we are only passing through to the promised land beyond the blue…”

Jessi - Actually, that would be an adjective. Grammar fail.

Jessi - I love that you just used “double rainbow” as a verb.

tiffany m gardner - Thank you for reminding all of us to see the beauty in small things. Life is a crazy, wonderful, scary, exciting beautiful ride. I am 33 and just had my third child. So I just experienced “building my nest” and “protecting my babies” too! This time my daddy wasn’t there to experience this new life with us. He was celebrating with Jesus. He had Alzheimer’s and went to be with Jesus four years ago. Sometimes life is just tough! My mama who as experienced a lot of loss in her life (my oldest brother died of cancer when he was sixteen..I was 2) always reminds me that everyday might not be great…but there are GREAT moments in everyday. Watching your bird build her nest and seeing those gorgeous eggs were great moments. Watching your sweet daughter’s amazement with her flower and seeds…great moments. Being reminded of your grandmother in doing something she loved…great moments. I will lift you up today…each time I see my flowers. I too will be thankful for the great moments. I will stand in awe of Jesus. I will be thankful for LIFE! ……thanks for being my morning cup of coffee! You Rock Meg!!!

Amanda - I’m so sorry to hear about your grandmother. I just lost my paternal grandmother a month ago and I have had those same thoughts so often lately-this part of adulthood is just no fun.

Jen Brandt - Meg, I love your posts. Look forward to them everyday. You’re right. God is awesome. I hope you have a wonderful, relaxing Mother’s Day.

tara pollard pakosta - You truly are blessed to still have a grandma!
It’s hard and stressful, but wow, to have had her that long!
I never met one of mine and the other died of cancer when I was 5 years old….so just know that this time with her has been so very special and just hang on to the beautiful memories. much love and prayers and I hopes she recovers.
xoxo
tara

Danielle - So sorry about your Grandma:( I will be praying for her. And you’re right, God is so very good to us. Such a beautiful post Meg:)

amy jupin - well hello there momma bird!
your eggs are perfectly lovely.
and your nest is a work of art.
i hope your babies are snuggly and warm.
meg, my grandmother was the greatest gift in my life for so many years.
i am so grateful for all the time i had with her.
just as you are for yours.
i pray your grandma gets well again soon.
i pray she knows how much you love her.
sending many hugs your way.

elizabeth seay - love all your posts- but this one is especially inspiring and hopeful. life is hard- but God is so good!
thankful with you that we have hope!

Vicki - I think that grandmas are one of the greatest blessings God gave us. That and the color of robin egg blue. Garden on today sweet friend. Give that love you have to all those that are around you, your kiddos, your hubby, your daddy, and especially your grandma.

Kris - My Grandma…Nana is 96 yrs young. She is a gem, and I adore her. She is not a bird lover, but she is a unique and special Southern Lady, who I will one day, miss so very much. I savor every day I have her in my life.
I am a huge bird nerd!!! Love to go birding, and I don’t have to go far, as I have a one acre orange grove with so many species nesting here. I also attract them with feeders, and plants and water stations. Gardening is also a passion of mine. And I am trying to pass these things on to my three wonderful little grandchildren.
Have a happy day. I enjoyed this post of yours!

Penny - Prayers for your family as you go through this hard time. I know we are dealing with hard times with my parents, 87year old Mom with Breast cancer and 90 year old Dad crushed watching her deal with this. It is hard. So I will pray for your family and your special grandma. Growing old is not fun! Our hope is in all the new life around us, knowing God has a wonderful plan!
Great post Meg.

Courtney - Thanks so much for sharing those photos, I am in Florida and we get the robins for a few days, they are such lovely birds! I hope that your sweet grandmother gets to see the photos as well. Hugs and prayers for your family during this time! God Bless!

Holly - Praying for your sweet grandmother. My grandmother reads my blog. In fact she calls if I dont post enough. We had a momma bird on one of our colums on our front porch last year.

Sherry Cartwright - Beautiful post and photos. Hugs to you as you celebrate your grandma today — through nature’s beauty. Hugs.

jill - Beautiful eggs and JELLY BEANS! 🙂 We will be thinking of your family and your grandmother.

colleen in Alabama - Hey Meg, My Memommie went to be with Jesus 2 years ago this month. My Andaddy (her husband) is still alive at 96. He has an anuresm (sp?) in his stomach and just found out he has bladder cancer! He is SO ready to go home to be with Jesus. He sings “i want to see Jesus most of all” all the time. I am almost 46 and am so thankful to have had this precious godly man in my life for this many years. I will be sad when He goes to be with Jesus but i choose to pray that God would take him quickly and without pain. Then I will continue to praise my Savior that He kept Andaddy Faithful and finishing strong to the very end. Praying for you and your grandma right now.

Amy - My Grammy just passed away 2 weeks ago today. It still doesn’t feel real but I think its starting to sink in a little bit. There hasn’t been a day that’s gone by in the last 2 weeks that I haven’t thought about her. She was 72 and she loved birds as well. Especially hummingbirds. 🙂 I love this post and am praying for your grandmother and your family during this difficult time.

Taryn - Just checkin’ in….it’s been awhile since we’ve connected. Know that i’m thinking of ya during this time with your Grandma. Love how you continue to keep it real. Enjoy your time gardening, soaking in all God has created today! Love ya!

sarah - Wow…incredible pictures. I want to frame the one of the three eggs shot from above and hand it on my wall! Would you be willing to sell it?
We don’t have many robins where I live now, but I remember ever-so-quietly tiptoeing up to their nests and catching peeks of those gorgeous eggs when I was a little girl and lived in the Midwest.
I’m so sorry your grandmother is suffering and that the rest of you are working through that right now. What a difficult time. 🙁

mel - your post got me all teary.
last year at this time we lost my grandma.
prayers for you and your family.
sometimes being a grown-up is so not fun.

Allison - Beautiful as always… Hugs to you as you deal with facing your grandma’s situation. But what a blessing that you have had a grandma for this much of your life, whom even your children are old enough to know. I am 23, and my one remaining grandparent just turned 89 and isn’t in very good health. I wish with all my heart that my amazing grandpa would live to see my 35th birthday and know the children I don’t have yet. So whatever happens, just be thankful that your grandma has known you for so much of your life. The grandparent/grandchild relationship is so special.

Ann Griffin - Beautiful pictures! I will keep you and your family in my prayers.

Katie Sellers - That picture of those blue eggs in the nest almost took my breath away—how incredibly beautiful–what an unexpected surprise!!!
Hope you find comfort in the beauty around you today!

sarah - My poppa passed away on December 16th. Watching my family greive was one of the hardest things I have had to do to date. One thing I learned though, is time heals all. God is the author of time and to me that means he slowly mends our hearts. Growing up is tough, for sure! The color of those eggs also reminds me of how great our God is. So beautiful, eh?

Meg Carter - Meg!
We have a nest too! http://madebymeg.net/blog/favorite-nook-now-even-better/
Sorry to hear your grandmother is not doing well. I just recently did a tribute post to my grandmother that was also very into bird watching and gardening! http://madebymeg.net/blog/happy-easter-love-gram/
Thoughts are with you and your family.

Laura - I have been reading your blog for over a year now and have never commented. Many times I have noticed that a lot of similarities between our lives.
The last 3 weeks have been rough around here as well. My Nana has just found out she has a fast growing brain tumor and has been hospitalized. She is 88 years old and has lived by herself for the last 40+ years on 3/4 of an acre without a car. I flew out to see her last week. I had some wonderful conversations with her, thanked her for all that she has done for me and taught me. I held her hand and told her I love her. In all of our conversations she kept telling me that all she wants to do is go home and garden and she misses riding the bus. Your post today has inspired me to have the most amazing garden just for her and to take my kids on a bus just like she took me when I would come to visit.
As your blog always does it reminds me to delight in the simple things…just like my Nana does.
Keep your memories close and remember she will always be there in your garden. Hugs to you 🙂

Sheri - We have had a lot of birds nest on our front porch but never ever had blue eggs – that is beyond awesome.

Amanda - This made me teary (in a good way). I’m 34 and still feel jolted when I have to make grown up decisions. Really, me? 3 kids, a marriage & a mortgage and it seems I should still be eating at the kid’s table @ Thanksgiving. (btw love the bird’s nest pics!)

Shayne - Ninety-four is such an amazing number of years, which means you have made some wonderful memories. What a thing to treasure, but in another way, even harder to walk through the ending-ness of her life. Our thoughts and prayers are with you; strength for your days and peace for your nights.

Tiffany - Warm thoughts for your Dad and Grandma. We have a nest under our deck, I think birds pick sweet families to build their nests. All the best to you and yours.

Kayla - Just sending hugs your way…and a few prayers!

Ruth Elder - Your post today made me think of my Grandma. She, too, loved Gardening and gave me ‘the bug’. She passed away 13 years ago. I still cry when I think of her. I still plant pink roses that make me think of her. Just remember: True love stories never have endings.

AshleyAnn - are you going to eat what you grow in that garden?

April M - blessed by your post today, thank you
wish i could offer something back but it sounds like God’s got you covered
(He’s so awesome!)
so that’ll be my bit, prayers that you and yours (and others in similar circumstances)
are covered by His grace and love
thanks again

Heather R. - P.S. love the new header. 🙂

Heather R. - Life is amazing. All of it. Enjoy your gardening, your bird with her eggs, and most of all your love for your grandma. Hugs!

debbie - Prayers for you and your sweet grandmother. Thanks for sharing a bit of happiness and beauty even though your heart is breaking.

Wendy - “Fuzzy baby Robins” … a FAVORITE of ours! Celebrate ur Grandmom’s 94 years – u & ur children r so lucky to have had her. I’m so envious of those who still have their Moms & Grandparents. Life … although amazing – is sometimes too short.

Sarah Alcantara - So sorry about your Grandma, beautiful post, beautiful pics….hugs!

Katie - Sorry to hear about your grandma! When my grandma passed away a few years ago I had the feeling that my biggest fan on earth was gone! She was the best!
Also fabulous print! Absolutely beautiful, thanks for following your curiosity and getting the shot! A must have!

deborah@applesinwonderland - my dear grandma loved birds and gardening too. and i loved and still love my now-departed grandma. ((((hugs)))) to you this morning and a good day for your grandma. it’s good to know that we are all connected too, through love and understanding and the need to carry on from one generation to the next.

Nancy - I have been down that road with the aging grandparents. I am sorry to hear about it. Never easy. No matter what age they are. Thoughts and prayers for you.
On another note, were you thinking of putting that robin’s egg picture in your shop or may I purchase an 8×10 of that. I LOOOVE it and would love to frame that lovely and remember God’s beautiful and abundant gift. Just gorgeous. Could you email me and let me know yay or nay. Thanks. xoxo Nancy

Catrina - I have the exact same bird/nest and 3 eggs in my back yard tree! yesterday I was brave enough to snap some pictures! And strange as it may sound, my great grandma is also not doing so well, she has been in ICU for about 2 weeks… So good luck with your grandma, I will keep you in my thoughts.

Donje - So sorry to hear about your grandma. It is hard. My prayers are with you and your family.

Caitlyn - I have the same cute little sunflower pot!

Beth Bowen - I follow your blog, but have never commented. I love this post so much that I’ve come out of hiding. 🙂 I will pray for you and your family. How awesome is God that He gave your family the “gift” of that mama bird and her babies right now in the midst of the situation with your grandma, reminding you that He is Creator and He cares for all living things. Have a blessed day and enjoy your birds and your “garden therapy”.

Carol S - God bless your grandma, gardening and birds. My grandma lived with us growing up and at 95 and passed away on Christmas Eve 2001. The last several years I visited her at assisted living places with my little ones which made her day, then the last 6 months were real hard, and she told me in confusion on my last visit, pointing at her body “this isn’t Alice, this isn’t me anymore and who I am” meaning it was time for her to leave. Huge believer, super faithful woman, and she adored cardinals and gardening. So, Meg, I’m right there with you. It’s hard, but she will live on in you forever.

Lindi G - Hi Meg…I absolutely love this post!! Having to be a grown up for situations like this does stink!! I hope all works out for the best!! The colors in the pics of this post are stunning!!
PS…loving the new profile pic and header!!

Marcella - I hear you.
When I was a kid I always thought grownups always had everything under control.
Now as an adult I realize my kids think I’m the one who has everything under control and can handle everything.
It’s scary because as you said, there are things that feel way too “grownup” to handle for even us grownups!
If we can remember our Father’s previous faithfulness that helps us through our present trials!
Beautiful post!

Gretchen - big Hugs meg! I know that feeling having been through it when my husband passed away. I kept thinking to myself, we are too young to deal with this being 31 at the time, it was a year ago. My faith has brought me great strength in times of trial, and I know yours will too. The nest, eggs and mama bird show how great God’s gift of life is. We are lucky to be a part of that gift!

Trina Curran - Oh, I love this. The bird is beautiful and so is her work of art. And, yes, I believe your grandmother would have loved it…bless her heart. And yours. We watch for cardinals to know that my husband’s dad is keeping watch over us…we see them at almost every family event. Coincidence? I don’t think so. We have one that lives in the tree outside in front of our house. 🙂

stephanie - Aging parents and grandparents is so hard. I’m starting to see some of those slowing down signs in my own parents (even though they are VERY active still), but it’s still hard when they have more dr. appointments than my four kids combined. Prayers for you and your grandma today.

Chantelle - Gorgeous pic of little eggs! Wow!! What a blessing to get to see that. Thank you for sharing!

Trish - hugs, it’s never easy watching our loved ones age!

Hoosier at Heart - I’ve never seen eggs such a vivid blue color. Gorgeous! Prayers out to your grandmother. Maybe you could print the pics out and take them to her to have in her room. Love ya, darlin!

Michelle from Australia - My Mum was orphaned at age 6. And as she watched her friends have to take care of their parents she said to me that she always thought she lost out on the parent lottery in life. But she said watching people have to make horrendous decisions on how to care for ageing parents, she realised that maybe she had pain young but was spared a more acute pain later in life. Her parents died young, beautiful, in love, they were her heroes, she has no bad memories of them and they didn’t suffer.
I will pray for your Grandma and your family in the days ahead.

Julia - I’m sorry your Grandma is not doing well. You are a source of comfort and strength for your family, though. When my dad was in the ER with congestive heart failure last year, I was there with my mom. I kept watching the ER doors, thinking someone I knew would come through the doors to help us. I realized that I was the one that came to help my mom and dad. It was a “grown up” realization and I didn’t like it. But, I did the best I could to help my mom and dad. (He recovered from that near fatal event- six weeks in the hospital and lots of hard work).
I love that momma robin. What a nice gift for you on your porch. Down here in Texas, we get them as they pass through onto other places. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen “robin-blue” eggs. Thank you for sharing.

Sarah @ Handbags*N*Pigtails - Sadly, I never knew either of my grandmothers(my moms mom, her best friend, was buried the day before I was born and her only wish was to live long enough to “meet the baby”). But I totally know what you mean about life being hard, tough decisions and all that. Im watching it happen with my PARENTS. They had me at 38 so although Im only 31 their healths have been on a downward slope fopr years now and it totally stinks.
Im praying for you. And your grandma. And that bird is absolutely beautiful!
xo,
Sarah

Nicole - Cannot say how much I love and needed this post. My grandfather has been fighting cancer for 4 years and this past month has been the worst. He has decided to forego further treatment and like you said, seeing my mom cry and watching her heart break for her daddy is way too grown up for me.
Beautiful post. Great pictures. Awesome God.

JulianneB - Praying for your sweet Grandma and you, too. It is the hard stuff of life, and it makes me stop and go…okay I guess this is what being grownup means. I lost both of my grandmas and my mom all within a one year span. So blessed to have had my grandmas into their nineties. My daughter was only 3 at the time, and I am sad she will miss having her grandma and great grandmas around.

Southern Gal - Sorry to hear of your grandma’s hard times right now. Yeah, growing up isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
Those eggs are gorgeous. Such pretty pictures of that mama bird, her eggs and her masterpiece. Yes, God is amazing.
Love your header. It’s so rainbow-y.

Sandy - I’m so sorry about your grandma, Meg.
I think you should frame the picture of the eggs…those totally match the mirror you painted. Yes??

Bernice - Those eggs are beautiful! Sorry to hear your grandma’s having some rough days. I hope things will get better for her soon.

Shann - So sorry to hear about your dear Grandma Meg. I lost my sweet Grandma last September. I can not tell you how many times I have wanted to go see her to tell her something that has been going on with myself or my kids and she is not there in her little blue chair anymore. It stinks. Although I am thankful for the promise we have in Christ that I will see her again someday…it is still so very hard. I just prayed for you and your family. Grandmas Rock!!! 🙂

Kerry - Those eggs are my fave colour!! Beautiful 🙂 Love the seedlings too! Sending your granny love and strength across the seas x

Annika - I like your new banner! And the bird photos are amazing. Nature is amazing!
All the best wishes for your gran!

georgia - Beautiful eggs! Your house is even more colourful now! Pls try and get baby bird photos too when you can 🙂

Gemma - Hi Meg!
Those eggs are beautiful!
I really hope your Grandma recovers. All you can do is be strong for your family : )
Gemma x

Amanda F. - How blessed you are to have gotten the chance to be with your grandma this long and for your kids to know their great grandma! I lost my grandma when I was only 8 years old and my mom’s mom I never got to meet at all. Prayers for your family during this time.
And beautiful pictures, those eggs are gorgeous! I totally see them as the new “sunflower print” for Summer 2011… 🙂

Valerie @ Chateau A La Mode - Awww Meg, I just love this post for lots of reasons…the little bird and her amazing nest, her most gorgeous blue eggs, the reminder of who God is. Take care. I know this is a hard time for you and having to deal with the reality that life isn’t always rainbows. I will keep you in my prayers. Sending you a hug.

heather @ cookie mondays - lovely post 🙂
those turqouise eggs are AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kori - My grandma just found out some not-so-good news (not really *new* bad news, but it’s confirmed…does that make sense?) and I agree that this part of grown-up life sucks. Bad.
I do love your houseguest and her family. They truly are a beautiful thing.
All the best to you and your family…
❤

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one last shot.

April 25, 2011

this is the last day for the fundraiser for sergey's adoption.
i know i have talked about this a lot the past two weeks.
I KNOW.

i don't know danielle and her family any more than you do.

i have never met her.

i have never talked to her on the phone.

but when she asked me one night to help her by donating a rainbow hoodie
so she could raise some money
to adopt a baby with down sydrome
IN AN ORPHANAGE in europe

and that she had 6 kids already…..

i felt God rip my heart open.

i want orphaned babies to find homes.
i want babies and children to be loved…i can't even type that without the tears coming.
it is such an injustice.

sergey did not ask to be abandoned.
he did not ask to be neglected.
he does not deserve that life.

he was born!
he is REAL.
he deserves a mother and a father.
and he has one now….and we can help them.

this is the last day i will ask you to look at this boy and say "YES GOD" as HE calls you to give.
don't ignore that.
don't push that voice and tugging away.

how much did you spend on easter candy this past weekend?
it's already gone isn't it?

how much did you spend on entertainment for your family or yourself this weekend?
what do you have to show for it?

$10

for sergey.

a kid who has the world stacked against him….who has waited long enough for a mommy to kiss him.

$10 could get you these prizes….tomorrow….a winner is going to be chosen for this AWESOMENESS!!!

Db2

if you had $10 for a chance at an iPAD anywhere else you would do it.
i know you would.
anybody would.

so do it today.

give it a chance.

and at the same time…..you are doing something truly amazing, worthwhile and GOOD.

donate here.

leave your comment HERE to enter for these prizes.

pray for sergey and his family that wants him today.

this is not too big for GOD to do…..HE CAN.

show hide 35 comments

add a comment

Hannah DeVries - Thank you for the reminder!

Lisa - I wish it wasn’t so much to adopt. My sister adopted a little boy from Ethiopia and it was such a walk of faith as they watched God bring in the money. It wasn’t easy but it did all finally happen. So excited for Danielle and her family and so glad I get to be a part of it. Even if its a small amount. Thanks for sharing about it again!

Jamie Smith - donated and am humbled by this families story.

Heather G. - Just now seeing this – glad it’s in time to donate!

crystal b. - Hey Friend,
Are you coming down from the jelly bean high yet? I’m emailing friends one more time about this. I hope they contribute something. I want this little guy to be in a home with a family who loves him. My in-laws served a mission for two years in West Germany. My mother-in-law said the most horrible thing she has ever had to experience were the orphanages in Romania and surrounding area. And those were the orphanages — not the mental instituations. She said that the babies there lay in cribs all day long — no one holds them at all, or loves them. It broke my heart to hear her stories. I hope Serey makes it out of there.
If you need any more prizes, please, please, please know you can always call on me to help. 🙂

JulianneB - Just donated. Thanks so much for sharing this opportunity with us.

Juli - Thank you for the reminder. I’m always upset when I click to donate & they want my credit card info. (no thanks) I was so relieved to find that it was connected to a Paypal-a site I use regularly & trust. I don’t want to be entered for the prizes. I just want that amazing Mom to have her little boy and him to have her.

Whitney S - I donated, thanks to you sharing their story with us! I mentioned them on my blog too- hopefully the word gets out to enough people!

Tami - Just donated! My heart goes out to Sergey and his new family.

Misty - Donated Meg 🙂 Thanks for putting this up on your blog 🙂

Brenna - Just donated – can’t wait to see God’s hand in this sweet baby’s life!!

Amy G. - I had already donated, but your comment about the Easter candy hit home. So, I donated again. 🙂
Thanks for the reminder and for showing his picture again – such a sweetheart!!!

Alison - I already donated and am hoping Sergey comes home very soon to his loving family. They sound amazing!! All things work together for good, to them that love God,to them who are called according to his purpose!

Deb Bounds - Doh! Just about forgot. Thanks for the reminder. Just finished up on the site and I am in love with Sergey! Thanks Meg for brightening my day, as usual. ““Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies.”–Mother Teresa.
Sergey will come home–$10 by $10 until he’s in his momma’s arms!

alaina - I donated this morning! Can’t wait to see God work this all out!!!

Jody - Donated this AM. Thanks for reminding us.

Sarah - I donated. Thank you for reminding us!

Meredith Salmon - Just donated. Thanks for the reminder.

Lisa - Just donated. Thanks for making this information available to us so that we can all help and bring that little one home. God Bless you Meg.

Ami Lynn - Thanks for reminding me, I just did it… since the first day I saw this I wanted to donate and just never clicked on it… bless this family and Sergey and a wonderful life together. So exciting to see how each donation matters and they’ve almost met their goal!

Heidi Jo the Artist - Wow, so many prizes! Didn’t even know there were prizes when I decided to donate. What an awesome bonus. 😉 Now I need to go spread the word!

april - amen sister!
april
xoxo

Jeremie - Thanks for the reminder! I wanted to give and had forgotten!! And I love the comment by Sophie!!!! My husband and I are youth pastors and you don’t see such selflessness by teenagers these days!! Such a blessing Sophie!!!!

Kate - I donated. I wish I had enough to make sure that all of those sweet babies could find their forever homes.

April M - I read James 1 this morning and although I should read my Bible every morning (and I try to) you should know – I don’t always read my Bible in the morning. But I did today and
James 1:27 says “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”
A bit later I read your blog and, well, I did spend about $10 on Easter candy.
So I am thanking God for His timing and for your faithfulness and for a family for Sergey.
Thanks for posting Sergey’s need (again). What a privilege to be a part of something so awesome!

Jenn Wehrung - What an AWESOME thing to know that such love exists and is supported by people like you!! Thank you for reminding me that I can play even the tiniest part in helping to get Sergey to his waiting parents!

Jen W. - Just donated. So happy to be a tiny part of bringing Sergey home. Blessings to you all…

Amanda - Your post touched my heart. I thought about all the things I spend my money on every week that mean nothing. I donated right away. I will be praying for this wonderful family.

Jen - I am glad you’ve followed up. It’s a good reminder for people like me who meant to donate right away but read blogs in a rush or on i-phones, or both. We plan to come back and do things like donate.
We have good intentions but need the push.. I am so very appreciative for this reminder. OF COURSE I am keen to help and I thank you for letting me know about this beautiful family. Please keep us up to date, if you can. I will pray for them.
Clicking the donate now button right now!!
Happy Easter to you and yours.
xxx

Chantelle - Hi Meg. Just wanted to thank you for dedication to helping this family. I am mom to 5 adopted kids and appreciate your heart on this subject. God bless.

edie - love you meg and love this so much. just donated and can’t wait to watch it all unfold.
xo,
edie

pam - Boy this was a leap of faith to donate. We’re struggling to keep employees paid…but look at that sweet face…I couldn’t not give….he deserves to be loved! Praying God grants them favor through the rest of the process…

Janelle - I donated! But couldn’t get my comments to post, so I won’t be winning anything. Other than you know, the satisfaction of knowing I did something to help this little boy get to his family. =)

Robyn Farmer - Just donated and pray others will too. The Lord is always FAITHFUL.

Sophie - This high school senior didn’t spend any money on anything for easter, and instead spent $80 on Sergey.
If I can manage it, I’m sure everyone else can spare $10 for this little boy.

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