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fall has arrived

October 8, 2009

annie and i are cuddled up here in our dark house.
it has been pouring ALL day long.
it's 54 degrees.

we made pumpkin pies this morning….just for fun.
it smells so good in here right now.
i bought the sound of music soundtrack on itunes today and i am halfway through the 27 tracks…

annie is painting with watercolors.
i am blogging and photo editing.

i have had four cups of coffee.
i am still wearing pajamas…it's 1:00.
it's just too dark and gloomy to get dressed.

did you watch sweet NieNie on Oprah?
she is amazing…her story is just so hard to hear…so much heart ache.
today for her….annie and i are just being together.
and enjoying it.
not taking one thing for granted.

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Thebluestbutterfly - I haven’t seen hedgeballs in so long.

Rebekah - Sounds like an absolutely perfect day to me, too!

kristin - i am planning on doing this on wednesday.
yes.

lydee - love the autumn pics! the pic of the quilts made me smile.

DreamGirlLisa - Such lovely images of Fall! thank you 🙂

Jaime - It sounds like a perfect day there. I missed Oprah too. I meant to record it. I hope to catch it sometime. I know it will be an incredible story to hear. Happy Fall!

Renee - LOVE the pictures. I like that you’re willing to stay in your jammies with Annie on a yucky day. And good food for the soul sounds lovely.
Thought Stephanie was wonderful on Oprah. Thought publicly spanking a SAHM for not loving-every-minute was obnoxious and offensive.
xoxo

Rebekah - Always such a treat to visit your blog.
Thanks for the beautiful autumn shots. It’s cold here, too. Loved having the fireplace on while playing with the kids in our pajamas.
Happy Fall!

Lindsay - Meg,
I don’t know you, but I love your blog. I used to live in MO and NE, now in Seattle. It’s not quite the same change in seasons here, so I LOVE your photos to remind me. You have an amazing life, family, and perspective, and I love to read about it- I feel like you’re a long lost friend. Happy Birthday and keep taking great photos!

Rachel / cREaTe - LOVE your gorgeous fall photos. favorites being the close up of the orange & green speckled gourd & the stunningly colorful mums. after reading this post, i was reminded i had DVR’d nienie on oprah & had to go watch it [even if it meant going to bed past 1am – totally feeling it now]. i adore & admire that gal like no other.

Amber Mershawn - My 2 year old LOVES the sound of music. She would’ve danced all over your house for you:). Thanks for the fall pics. Always makes me crave the holidays. And I did see Oprah. Cried a lot. She’s a beautiful lady with a precious husband. Off to watch Sesame Street with my girl. Just felt like leaving a comment for once for you. I just love coming here….

traci - that is what i am doing today. staying in and getting some editing done. i think we have had one sunny day this week. loved your fall photos!!

Nancy-The Goat and The Kid - I so miss those chilly fall Kansas days. I lived in Wichita for a year; but now I’m back in so. California. I truly miss fall. My absolute favorite time of the year. It was in the high 60’s this week. I jumped on it and finally sported some jeans and a sweater. I am such a pansy now with weather; but i do miss fall. Enjoy!

Sheryl - meg,
if you are ever in tennessee please come take family pictures for me. you have the best shots and so colorful. i have been playing with shots and loading them on picnik to try to get the “meg” look.

pve - yes, i watched and i cried. i cried because she is beautiful and that she chose the hard thing, to live and to be so spirited. I am trying to figure out how to post on her, and to take not one thing for granted is so true.
your gray and cold day sounds full of heart.
love your photos.
pve

katy - your pictures are amazing, i want to print them off and put them all over my house!!!!!!
i love coming to your blog, it’s always so happy and cheerful.

Laura Phelps - I miss the baking just for fun days…today I baked a red velvet cake and 4 dozen cupcakes…not as much fun when it is work…my feet hurt and I am tired
love a cozy house in the rain…
sounds like a beautiful day

Christina - Wonderful, beautiful pictures! I love wearing jammies all day-my husband, I don’t think he gets it! 🙂
I don’t know if I could have watched the Oprah, at least not with the kids around…they would have wondered what in the world was wrong with me for all the tears.

Alicia - Hey Meg…this is Alicia in CO! Your pics today are amazing as always. My Lili and I ran through the big snowflakes that fell for the first time this fall. We were trying to eat’em all up! So fun! Check out the pics on my new blog…yes, I finally did it…http://a-lovely.blogspot.com/
You were my blogging inspiration!

Jacqui - yep, its -3 and snowing up here …. really is it only fall cause today it feels like winter!

susie whyte - rain and 54 degrees…i know it well. i spent the day in riverside(wichita) helping a friend move. those pictures made me feel a little warmer after the long, cold day. thanks! 🙂

andrea - i saw her and she was of course wonderful, i wasnt surprised (i like how i talk about her like i actually know her, lol). good for you pj girl, i would be doing it too except i might get written up by my boss, lol

Amy - Sounds like you had a wonderful day. Between you and Nie Nie ( I dvr’d the Oprah episode so my hubby can watch it) I am reaching higher and higher as a mom. Thanks for the motivation. You are such an inspiration!

Bernie - I love your photography! It is just beautiful. I will be following you in my Google Reader.
Warmly,
Bernie

Annette - What a great day to spend baking with your daughter. Since lil sis started school I sure miss those mommy/daughter days. I LOVE the quilts in your post. Reading your blog and seeing your pictures makes my day!!!

Jerri - Nie Nie-what an inspiration! Glad you and sweet Annie got to enjoy the small things together today! The pics are so pretty!

Melanie - I love NieNie. I cried the whole time she was on Oprah. She is an inspiration to every one, every where.
I think that a day in PJs with it raining and 54 degrees is a great day. And 4 cups of coffee sounds wonderful.

Ashley - Meg,
You are the sweeeeeetest! I cried through the whole Nie part of Oprah. Love the pics. You are just all that AND a bag of chips meg!

jackie - great photos! thanks for stopping by my blog…now it’s my turn to browse through yours! have fun with your alphabet pancakes.

Sharri - What the green things that look like brains?

Beth - agreed! nie=inspiration.
ps can you send me some of those green horse apple thingys?
pretty please!

elma - Loved the Oprah show!! The Nielson have such a wonderful love story:) You can just feel all the love they have for eachother and the love from nies family. I am blessed to be a sahm to eight and i love it. Love the pictures and the quilts. Do you have the quilts on a bench or in a cabinet??

BeccaJane - I love NieNie! I too have felt inspired to be a better mom today….and hopefully every day!

Tiffany - Great post!!! That Oprah was amazing. I felt bad for the SAHM who said she wanted to kill herself playing play-doh. I bet she felt like an ass.

Kate - Beautiful pics, Meg!

Pineapple Princess - GREAT idea… really, it’s just the simple things.
Your photography inspires!!!!!!!!

Summer - I think the amaing thing about nie nie is that she just radiates love. After watching, it’s hard to see the burns and only see her beautiful spirit.

Erin - sometimes that is just what a person needs….to stay in their jammies till 1:00 in the afternoon. Hope you had a great day.

Sarah @ Clover Lane - I love those quilts stacked up…beautiful photos…and wasn’t that show great…except could have been a whole show on her!

Hillary @ The Other Mama - YAY for pumpkin pie. I’ve made 4 pumpkin bread loaves and might have possibly eaten the greater part of all of them.
And NieNie was fantastic! What a great story of love and overcoming obsticles.
Enjoy your jammies!

Heather @ Cookie Mondays - mmm… send me some pie!

Rach - YAY for Pumpkin Patches!!

Darby - Hey Meg! Saw Nie on Oprah… loved it and her outfit! I think she needs to start a style blog! 🙂 I would love for you to send some of that chilly weather down here… we’re still dripping in sweat! I love the osage oranges too… we used to have a tree in our yard when I lived in Louisville and I love them! So funky & organic… and a great addition to any table or bowl and I imagine your boys have used them as missles before too! Enjoy your day with Annie!

adrienneK - such pretty pictures! how am i the only one that missed her on oprah!?!?was it yesterday or today blah 🙁

Southern Belle Mama - Your photos are a wonderful representation of autumn’s arrival! …also watched NieNie on Oprah. Such an inspiring story of survival and recovery! Enjoy your rainy day!

Lori - You guys sound cozy! It’s 70+ degrees here in Richmond, VA. Too warm to seem fall-ish, but it is really cool in the mornings now.
My DVR screwed up (operator error?)so I didn’t see NieNie on Oprah. But then I watched her daily routine video. She seems so nice and it just hurts to watch. I admire her greatly.
Enjoy a quiet pj day!

elizabeth - What gorgeous photos. And I watched NieNie, too. Such an amazing story.
Post your pumpkin pie recipe! I need a new one…

Miranda - That sounds like the perfect day to me! Thanks for sharing the beautiful photos. I think I’ll go cuddle up with my little one now.

Tracy - I loved your blog today – thanks for sharing and I’m glad you’re getting to stay home and in with little miss priss and enjoy your time together. Baking Pumpkin pie sounds like the perfect day to me and your pictures are as beautiful as ever! :o)

Mindy Harris - I did watch NieNie. Wouldn’t have missed it. Is pumpkin pie easy to make?
I, too, am still in my pjs yet still haven’t been as productive as you!
Can’t wait to see pics from our session…;-)

Nina - sounds like the perfect pj’s all day to me!

the wild raspberry - what a great post….
unfortunately i missed the oprah show….maybe i could catch it on the computer somehow.
chasity

jody - we’re doing the same thing over here in rainy, cold iowa.
yes, slowing down, being present with one another and loving it. a great show yesterday…she is one special woman. a special family.

Starnes Fam - Love Nie Nie!!!!!! Great photos….love fall!

Jamie - BEAUTIFUL pictures!!!

Heather - I think that is a wonderful idea.

Sarah @ Dream In Domestic - What a sweet post. Its sounds like a perfect day to me. You’re surrounded by love, what a better place to be. And you also share gorgeous pictures with us to make our days better. Thanks!

Staci - Oh man….did I ever want to stay in my polka dot pajama pants (same ones I think you have from Target…LOVE THEM!) this morning. We are getting the same weather here in OK! LOVE IT!!!!! And yes, I did see Nie Nie on Oprah…and yes, today, I’m doing the same…just being in the moment!!!!!!!!

Mrs. Dunbar - I watched Nie too. Wow, she is courageous.
Want to come to my house and show me how to make pumpkin pies? (JK) I don’t eat the stuff but I LOVE the way they smell.
Adoring all of your fall photos. Cheers.

Allikayes Mama - We are cozy-ed up today too! Allikaye is playing with her watercolors at this very minute also! You are making me want pumpkin pie…badly!! Yum!!! I lit my pumpkin candles just to try to nip the craving…not working!!
I have Oprah on the DVR – excited to watch Nie! Have a happy fall day!!

amy - hi meg!
just ramdomly checked in and you must have just hit post! so, so glad you’re back.
watching nie was amazing. she and her husband just beamed. loved it.
hope you and the annie-ster have a great day.

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34

October 1, 2009

my birthday was just right.

craig let me sleep in and HE got the kids ready and took them to school…so quietly.
annie snuck in to tell me happy birthday and she was wearing this.
loved it.
after she was off to school i took off for wichita for some shopping/browsing alone.
(i really do love to be alone…so that was cool to get time to do that on my birthday…i am a dork)

if i had gone to the bookstore
first i doubt i would've left.

i just love looking through
so many books.
i never buy any….i am that lady.
the one with the huge stack
of books and leaves with nothing.
sorry barnes and noble.

i went to the fabric store

first and found anna maria horner
in wichita! that's exciting.
i asked the woman working in
the tiny shop if they had more
and she very quickly said "No."
i thought that was weird.
sure enough…
i did find more in the wrong
spot…mixed in with strange
fabrics.
the lady said
"i like this Ann Martin."
????

she must need better glasses.

i met up with two girls
for lunch at sugar sisters.

we ate our cupcakes first.

oh yum…

i got the

SALTED CARMEL.
the other girls got chocolate.
i totally want to bake after
i go there…bake pretty that is.

i wished we had all day to hang out…i am sure we would have been able to talk the entire time. :)

they were worried about their double chins….and look who is the only one who has one. HA!

hobby lobby…the sky on my drive home…cards from the kids…with glitter.

it's a piece of rainbow cake….made by annie.

beautiful.

my gift was the chalkboard mug from starbucks.
i had held it in my hands earlier that day in starbucks by myself and thought

"i love this…who could i get it for? i LOVE it!"

then i put it back on the shelf and forgot about it.

nice job craiggers.

and this year…they got me a cake!

this could be a first….it's rare.

i was very surprised.

it was a good day.

craig wanted to do more for me but i kept saying "i'm fine. let's just sit here at home."

i was happy to be home.

and loved.

and thought of.

thanks for all the birthday wishes.

thanks for reading the blog-o-la.

i am one happy thirty four year old.

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eds - the salted caramel is the absolute best! (and i would know b/c one time i went and tried almost all of the ones available…oops!)

Jennifer Whitcombb - Hope you had a great birthday! What fabric store did you go to in Wichita? I can never find anything I like at Hancock fabrics! Thanks!
Jennifer

kristin - happy birthday, friend.
annie announced to the class that it was your birthday. and yes, that outfit was GOOD.

Sarah V. - I’m glad you had a good day! Happy Birthday again!!

Flower Patch Farmgirl - You make me even more excited for 34. (It’s less than a year away, after all…) Also, have I ever told you how much I love the fact that you allow your kids to dress like crazy people? I let my kids dress like crazy people, too, but I think I’m the only one around my parts. All the other pre-schoolers are all “cool” looking and coordinated, while Calvin is wearing kelly green track pants with a tie-dyed t-shirt with a red IU mesh jersey over top. Hang on, almost done here…. I also love, love, love spending an afternoon alone and sleeping in is the best gift and everytime I hear “I’m Alive” I think of you, which is weird, since I don’t even know you.
The end.

Laura Phelps - WAIT A MINUTE!!!!!!!!! I DO KNOW WH I AM SO SAD!!!!!!!!!
You are ONLY 34!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
34
holy moly
so fantastic and so many kids and so talented and such a beautiful home….
and ONLY
34!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I feel old
THAT is why I felt sad
phew…I feel better now knowing…thought I had lost my blogging mind!

Laura Phelps - I dont know why, but this post made me happy-sad. Don’t even know what that is! Just happy…to see you happy…doing things that would totally make ME happy, but sort of sad, too…because…I dont know! Maybe because the pictures are SO beautiful, and I FEEL their beauty, and I wish I could be doing all of what you did RIGHT NOW instead of having a sort or boring, depressing Saturday….wow…I think I need therapy! Got this all from one birthday post!
I just think you and your life are awesome. And I thank YOU for sharing it all with me.

Trina McNeilly - Happy happy birthday to you!!!! Sounds like a delightful day! And I know you will have a beautiful year! God bless!
xTrina

Victoria - I love the way you documented your birthday… Thanks for sharing your photos of your special day! I’m new to your blog and I have to say it’s a new favorite!

christine - what a precious & happy day!! glad you had a great birthday!

Rebekah - Happy birthday!! I can totally relate to the treat of being ALONE. My husband doesn’t really get how much alone time means to me and to be out in the world all by my lonesome? *Sigh* Bliss. 🙂 Glad you had a perfect day.

Nina - Happy Birthday Meg……sounds like a wonderful day! I too like to shop alone

Kyleigh Orlebar - I’ve just googled ‘Life is Beautiful’ – I’ve never seen it! Might have to add it to my LoveFilm account… Your birthday looked ACES BACES! I’m loving Annie’s outfit – it’s a shame over here in EnGERland little tots have to start wearing school uniform from age 4 or so, still there’s always weekends for a little outfit surprise!

Christy - What a wonderful day & what a wonderful husband & family! 🙂 Happy belated birhday!

seleta - I’m a day late but just wanted to wish you a Happy Birthday, Meg!!!
Loved your birthday post. Your heart was filled to the brim with goodness all day! How inspiring.
xoxo
Seleta

missye - 34! What a great age!
I’m glad you had a great b’day. Sleeping in is such a wonderful present.
Happy Birthday!

Sara - Looks like an amazing day! Love how you captured a little aspect of the entire day. Happy Birthday!

Kate - Ok, is it weird that I think it is so cool that I am the same age as you? Love your blog. Love your attitude. Love the real.
Happy Birthday!

Tracy - What a great day, Meg! And such love from the friends and family too! LOVE the chalkboard mug and LOVED Annie’s outfit too – SO CUTE! Glad you had a wonderful birthday! Big hugs, Trac~ :o)

Mama Sue - Oh, you just celebrated my perfect birthday as well. It’s so not weird to want to be a lone a little while and soak in the finer things in life. Happy Birthday to an awesome spring chick!

Renee - You’re only 34??? I’m not sure I can be friends with such a baby! LOL I’m so glad you had just the right day. The way it should be. The pictures are awesome, thanks for sharing. xoxo

sandy toe - Love the pictures…looks like a wonderful birthday!
sandy toe

Katie - happy birthday!!!

amy bell - happy birthday!!!! i, too, am 34….it has been a good year….i may just keep this year…and not turn 35…i have been known to deny the next birthday.
so happy for you and your wonderful day.
xo

pve - Wow 34, you sure know how to cram a lot of livin in…
Happy B-day to you!!!!!
pve

Sam - What a wonderful family you have. Shows how much you mean to them that they gave you such a special day:-)

Debra Cripps - Glad you had a great day!

suzanne b. - I’ve just started reading your blog so I do feel funny wishing you happy birthday.
I started dating my husband the week before Valentine’s Day in 1995, and so that was awkward, too.
But there are worse things in life than happy birthday greetings or Valentine cards from people you don’t know yet.
So happy birthday! 🙂

karen gerstenberger - Happy Birthday! (My husband turns 54 today.) Your day sounded wonderful, and you deserve it! I love your blog…thanks for brightening my days.

Kat - What a lovely day! Glad it was super fun because you are super fun and deserve a super fun day! Mmmmmmm, salted caramel… sounds heavenly! Happy Birthday!

kim - Looks like my kind of day! Glad you had a good one. Happy birthday!!!!

Suzanne - looks like a near perfect birthday…I love being alone too!
Thanks for sharing…

Christina - What a wonderful day!! Such happiness…ahhh.

Julie - happy birthday to a blogger who always brightens my day! thanks!

Staci - Sooooo glad you enjoyed your big day!!!!

melissa - HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!

purejoy - wow. happy birthday. what a perfect, perfect day. i am afraid to have a love affair with fabric. i might become obsessed. fatal attractionish.
hope you had a splendid day!

DreamGirlLisa - What a great birthday! One of my favorite things to do,and I usually do it alone, but have been known to bring a friend or my 13 year-old daughter, is to sit for hours at B & N with a coffee and big stack of magazines and decorating/cookbooks…and I never buy anything (besides the coffee). Sounds like you had a perfect day, ending with those most important in you life, what could be better??

Kelly - happy birthday!!

Lora - OK. I need to move to the USA. They do not write your name on the cup at Starbucks here in Canada. Would it be so difficult? And, they don’t have those mugs….it’s irritating how many COOL things I see on here and try to order them, only to get the message, “not shipped to Canada”. Really, I’m applying for my green card tomorrow!
glad you had a good bday. 🙂
annie’s outfit is adorable!

Erin - Sweet Jana!
Glad you had a good birthday – sounds like lots of fun all around!!

Ashley - Happy Birthday dear Meg! I always love your blog, thanks for writing and sharing your life.

Julie - Happy Birthday! Looks like a perfect day. Thanks for sharing it!

Kelley - what a wonderful feeling to be loved on your birthday. and thought of. and to be made a big deal of. hApPy ThIrTy-FoUr!

Allison - Meg, I have been lurking on your blog for a long time, love it. And then, I entered the contest yesterday and forgot to even say happy birthday! – and have been feeling lame ever since – Happy Birthday.

Joni Lloyd - oh happy day! looks delicious.

Shana - YOU GOT A CAKE!!!

Emily@remodelingthislife - what a great day. i think i need that chalkboard mug.

Jamie - I’m such a dork! I forgot to wish you a happy birthday yesterday! I’m glad you had a great day!

Kacey - Yay! Sounds like a perfectly lovely birthday. Thanks for sharing it with us!
P.S. Love the mug.

adrienneK - so sweet! happy birthday lovely lady!!!

Elizabeth Highsmith - cupcakes and birthdays are the best, glad that you enjoyed both of yours~

Lori - What a fun day! I am “that lady” at Barnes and Noble too. I see one of the Nell Hill books in the stack. I love her books. Have you ever been to her store(s) in Atkinson (no idea if that is anywhere near you?)

se7en - Happy whatever Birthday to you – I just love your fun blog and beautiful days!!! Many Many more to you…

Aljolynn - Yay for birthdays!!!
I’m so happy it was a joyful one.

jennifer - Sounds like a perfectly wonderful day.
Thanks for sharing it with us!

Simply Savvy Girl - I’m pretty sure that was the most perfect birthday ever! Thanks for being such a gift to us on a daily basis!!

Victoria - Man, I just enjoyed your birthday too! 🙂 Great pictures…great day! Happy, happy birthday!

Sara Cameli - Now…go take a “wind bath..” ha ha. Happy Birthday!!!!!

Emily - You are so young and with five kids! Wow! Glad your birthday was good.

CherryTreeLane - That looks like a pretty special day!
Loves and hugs on your birthday 🙂

kristi rediske - Looks like you had a great day! I love time by myself too-my birthday is coming and I think I may do the same type of stuff. Its fun to be alone, with friends and with family! How much better can it be. Happy Birthday!

AnNicole@OurSuburbanCottage - Happy Birthday! It looks like a great day. We’re just a year apart…I’m 33. That’s a totally random though, I’m just sayin’ :).
I still want to make the trek up there for family photos. I’ll send you an email!

Amber - HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11111111

Summer - Such inspiration to Live Life!

Julia - that looks like the perfect day.

Beth - sounds like the perfect birthday to me! happy 34th!

sarah - Glad you enjoyed your birthday, great pictures as always, and love that mug…very cute!
I’m that girl at Barnes n noble too… big stack, I read there for hours and leave with nothing…sometimes I leave with a magazine. sometimes.

chris - Sounds perfect to me , if your a dork for liking being alone , I guess I am a dork too , love it , the quiet the aloneness , those infrequent times are nice.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Meg , glad you had a great day .
Chris

Allikayes Mama - What a fun day! Happy bday, girl! I am only 5 years behind you!! hehe!

Sarah @ Clover Lane - You’re only 34? LUCKY!

Iman - {Happy Birthday} Looks like you had a great time. I look at books and don’t buy 😉
And that cupcake looks yummy!

Courtney - My hubs turned 34 this week too… so you’re in good company! Many happy returns to you! 🙂

carissa... brown eyed fox - how neat… we all got to share in your fun!
and your day… sounds PERFECTO!

Krista - Sounds like the best day: Starbucks, sleeping late, quality alone time, lots of cake, friends and family and presents! Glad it was happy!

Lisa - Thats my kind of birthday. I said it yesterday and i will say it again: HAPPY BIRTHDAY.
XXX

Pineapple Princess - Happy, happy day and thanks for sharing it with us!

Elizabeth at BlueClearSky - Happy Birthday! Such a cute mug. Your kids were very busy with all that birthday artwork, the most precious of gifts.

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today

September 29, 2009

today i am…rested but wishing i could go back to bed.
i am emotional…hoping i don't cry all through my bible study this time.
i am happy…to be enjoying my coffee…my family…mr.craig….my friendships.
i am working on jen and jude's photos.
i am washing 7 loads of laundry….or more.
today i am still memorizing Phil. 4:11-13.
i am making dinner ON TIME.
i am getting some mums for my porch…it feels like FALL.
i am going to fix my hair AND wear make-up….on the same day!
today i am going to go outside and feel the sun on my face.

what are you doing today?

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Elisa - Glad I am not the only one that is emotional lately.

Quinn - today i have classes.
how exciting.
and if facebook is right,
happy happy birthday 🙂
and if not…. ignore this post hahahhaa

pve - Today, I have a long list to tackle and I promise to do it all with a smile. 🙂
off to tackle and 🙂
pve

cre8ivegirl - today i am going to work…a job i don’t really like but do a good job at it anyway…today i am reading to my daughter…the whole 20 minutes that has been assigned to her by the teacher…not 10 or 15 minutes and calling it good…today i am dreaming of an tropical island…somewhere…anywhere.

Jerri - Today I worked from home in the am and acutally got reorganized and caught up…went out and saw a few patients…had pizza with my hubs…posted on my blog…read a lot of blogs and commented…still need to work in my office…but most of all tried to be Happy and Thankful! PS I love Annie’s style!!!

Dina Marie - I happen to read this blog and thought why not I answer to your question based on what I did today.
I was in Seattle for a couple of appointments this morning.
Went to Exclusive Veterinary Center and bought dry food and salmon/potatoes wet food for my dear cat, Como.
I went to Costco and pick up pills from pharmacy.
I also bought a neat shark, buoyant, boat, and two cars at Costco for my 5 years old son, Nolan to play during his bath time. It’s a surprise for him. : )
I went to Costco gas station to put some more gas for my car.
I checked emails.
I watched a movie called Garfield’s Pet Force with Nolan.
I went to Nolan’s school for curriculum night and had a meeting with Nolan’s teacher.
We went to school meeting with the principal and vice principal.
I am watching The Big Loser TV show.

Sarah Beth - Today I…got up 5 minutes BEFORE my alarm went off due to my children getting the worm (early birds get the worm). We did school, ( I home school our 5 year old son), I went to the ENT specialist and found out I’m gonna have to have snoz surgery, got home and took a 2.2 mile walk/jog w/ my three kids in a double stroller ( it works out very well, they all fit), had a yummy lunch, read to my kids, they napped while I caught up on my blogging/facebooking, talked to my neighbor while chasing my little girly, had an amazing salad for dinner, enjoyed grocery shopping w/ my wonderful hubby and kidd:0)s!
“This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it!”

mom - Today I drove to Colorado with my good friend. It was a beautiful day and a beautiful drive.
Happy BDay tomorrow!

Gretchen - Today I:
worked out
worked all day
had lunch with a friend
finished a project
checked on a friend who had surgery last week
shared a glass of wine with my hubby
played with the dog
reveled in the fact that my house was clean, lawn was done,puppy was tired, dinner was ready in the crock pot and the laundry was in the washer when I got home from work
I love Tuesdays
now it’s me time.

DreamGirlLisa - Today I went to work, something I wish I didn’t have to do. Some day I hope to be able to say I am working at home, or in my own business. I hate that I cannot be there to take my daughter to school or pick her up after. I miss the days when I had a snack ready for my girls when they got home. I have to get up every morning to do my hair and put on make-up, I love when I DON’T have to on the weekends. Perspective is interesting, isn’t it?
Keep doing what you’re doing, making us think.

carissa... brown eyed fox - i should have done my hair & makeup too! 🙂
i DID go to the gym… almost flew off the treadmill… i kid you not… scared me to pieces… can you imagine! that would have been a sight!
VERY special day tomorrow! wishing for shear happiness for you! xo

Kim Disberger - When I was teaching school there was a mom who was gorgeous, however, she never did her hair AND makeup on the same day. (FYI, this was before I had kids) I asked her once why that was. It was (duh) b/c she never had time for both. There are many days that happens to me and I think of her a lot! 🙂

kristi rediske - I have watered my mums,( I love fall), rearranged my front porch-have my stray(hay) with pumpkins in the perfect spot, and have enjoyed this great day. Its sunny in Arkansas-a great day that the Lord has given us.

Sandra - I am going to notice the greatness in others, the knit together, ‘made in His image’ amazingness that we all have that goes too easily unnoticed.
And after I’ve noticed it, I’m going to ENJOY this said greatness. No expectations, only anticipation

Ashley - Meg,
Today I have a day full of Dr. appointments but am thrilled to be able to sit here while I wait and read my favorite blogs!
Have a good day Meg, I know your heart is heavy about Cora and you and the Mac’s are in our prayers daily!
Ashley
http://jackspratandhiswife.blogspot.com/

Sarah @ Clover Lane - Sounds like you are in a “get it done” “back to normal” “slow and steady” mood. I need that mood. Send it this way.

Joni Lloyd - i am sitting with kleenex shoved up my nostrils right now trying to fight off this cold or allergies…whatever it is, it stinks. but seriously, i would love for your kids to pick out my outfit one day. i love their free spirited happy color choices and the freedom you give them to let them express themselves. i love it.

Tracy - Wow – hair and makeup ON THE SAME DAY?! You are a BRAVE woman my friend! LOL Seriously, love the post today! Have a wonderful day! Big hugs, Trac~:o)

the wild raspberry - funny…i JUST read philippians 4:13 and it is open here at the computer next to me…
blessing to you on this glorious day~~
chasity

Lora - today, I am working…home for lunch…feeling broken hearted for the ones who don’t know Jesus and His promises……and so thankful that I do!

Lindy - Today I, too, am rested. For once. Hubby’s snoring couldn’t keep me awake (although I cheated a little). Making lists. Hauling trash, cleaning fridge (more trash), bagging recyclables, paying bills, going to post office for stamps, buying birthday cards. Next 3 days are for grandkid watching, comes the weekend and off to see Abby on Monday! I am so glad I am rested!
Have a great day Megan!

Julia - any reason for being emotional? #6?

Rachel - Hi there!
Today I decided to comment on your page as I’ve been reading your blog for a while but never got round to commenting.
I just got home from the first day of my second week on placement as a student occupational therapist in Glasgow (Scotland). I fell asleep on the bus home and it’s freezing here so now I’m in my PJs on the sofa watching Friends (it’s 6.20pm!).
Tonight I am going to watch March of the Penguins and Munich and veg on the sofa.
Hope you have a great day.
Rachel

Sallie - I am uplifted by your colorful photos (as usual)! Thanks for sharing your gifts.

patti - today I’m praying for the best.
today I take my littlest girl (she’s 2) to the eye doctor for an ongoing sty problem and I just hope she doesn’t experience too much pain and I hope I don’t cry.
today the weather finally dropped out of the 100’s! so i’m going to enjoy fall finally being here.
today, i’m going to be patient with my kids.
thanks for reminding me of all the things good i need to focus on today – oh, and the laundry :).

Renee - i love annie’s spirit — the way she dresses is divine.
today: cleaning the bath mats that look like someone may have sat on one w/o wiping their bottom first. good times.
dh is working from home, so i have to try to keep his mind on his work and not on me!
picking up my beautiful son from kindergarten. we’ve moved past the moody blues and into full glorious smiles at pick-up. woo hoo!
your list sounds good, too. lol, xoxo

julie - today i am ditching bible study since a certain spicy three year old decided that today is the worst day in the history of all of the worst days of the world because I did her hair slightly differently than she had envisioned.
the end of her three years of life as she knows it.
who has to worry about war, universal healthcare or the recession when you ponytails are a bit fluffier than usual.
exhausting.
a 45 minute extravaganza of exhaustion.

Heather - I think I will try to do my hair and wear makeup today, too!

Georgia - I have just finished work its 5:19pm. My agenda for this evening is dinner, bath pajamas, and get cozy to watch tv. I have no energy for anything else… lol

Toni :O) - Today, I’m working…crazy busy. Then kids to the doctor for their flu shots, home for dinner and homework with the kids, off to public library and then to Party City to check out Halloween costumes before ordering through a catalog, then make sure I’m home for a phone call with a gal who is interested in becoming a new consultant on my team with Tastefully Simple, then laundry once showers are done…then…hopefully relaxing by 9:30 p.m.!

Heather @ Cookie Mondays - It’s finally cool here today! I bought a huge bunch of mums at the Farmer’s market last weekend. They are BEAUTIFUL right now!!!

traci - your today sounds perfect!!!!!

Laura Phelps - right now, thanking God for the chill in the morning air, reminding me of my real HOME back in NY in autumn
making cakes
remembering to breathe

Trasie - Today I am telling you it’s OK to cry through your bible study if you want too.
Today I am working on the blog for tomorrow. My baby will be nine months old. I have shared her with the world for as long as I carried her. Nine months mean more to me than 1 year. I have held her in my arms for as long as I carried her in my person. They placed her in my arms and she slipped right into my heart.
Today I am wishing that I lived in your neighborhood because seeing that darling little girl of yours in mismatched clothes, rain boots and loving life every day would remind me that, I need to stop waiting for the storm to pass and learn to dance in the rain more often.

AnneYarbs79 - Reading blogs I love.
Enjoying the silence while the baby sleeps.
Drinking a good cup of coffee.
Checking on the laundry and the dishes.
Making sure Super WHY is Tivoed.
Rinse and Repeat. :0)

purejoy - i love your list!! for me:
bringing lunch to a friend recovering from melanoma surgery on the bottom of her foot (how often do you examine the bottom of your foot?? me? not ever!) with my husband. the art of visiting with people is lost in this world, y’know.
catching up with some old-school hand written correspondence
assembling all the information from baccalaureate from last year to give to next year’s committee chairwoman. . . major procrastination going on there
working for the hubster
preparing the rest of my BSF lesson
trying to think about what to serve for dinner tonite
i’m exhausted just thinking about all of this!
but thanks for the reminder to accomplish something today!

Kate - Hi! I am working… then getting the kids at two… off to religous education and choir practice… then (maybe) off to a benefit concert for a sweet girl who needs our prayers… I haven’t decided on the concert yet… my heart is torn…

Natalie Battitori - Working till 4 then off to watch two of my kids play soccer then pick up other kid from volleyball practice. Fix supper. Do at least one load of laundry. Grade one kid’s homework (teacher requests it). It’s a beautiful fall day in Kansas, so really looking forward to watching the soccer game later!
Meg–I’m sure you’ve been told this many times, but you really do do more laundry than anyone else! Is there a Queen of Laundry award out there I could nominate you for? Probably not, huh?! Luv the pics above of your daughter! I hope it makes you smile like it does me.

Nicole - Today . . . . planning my October menu and grocery list! Makes me hungry all day!! Your “hair AND make up in the same day” comment made me laugh! Today is a make up day for me but not hair day!! Have a good day Meg! Hope biblestudy is uplifting and encouraging!!

Jill - Still in my p.j.’s and your post just motivated me to get up and get going. Thanks!!! 🙂 ~Jill

Staci - I AM going to work out!!! Yes I am….just started back yesterday….and wow! Sore today! It’s a baseball cap and no make up day for me though 🙂 And of course a little laundry…and clean out the fish bowl!!! Sounds like an easy day….oh but I can’t wait to see how all the things that crop up out of the blue that will hinder me from getting it done 🙁 LIKE BLOG READING 🙂

amber - hi girl! i hear ya. i fixed my hair and put on makeup today too!! it really does make me fee better. today i am homeschooling my girl, goin to the bank, taking a walk to the downtown library in this beautiful fall weather, then walking to the park to fly kites with my sassy. and tonights menu: steak-ums, fresh green beans, and homemade cake!!! 🙂

Jo - Working until 5! Payroll, trying to start my Mary Kay business 🙂 I feel blessed today!! Did some laundry yesterday, will finish today. There is only two of us in the household and I feel like I never get done….??????

gabrielle - don’t cry you have a lovely home and a lovely family and so much that I admire in a mother, wish I was you sometimes. Really I do.
but today I’m not working so I’ll try and get my giveaway post up and do some more crafty stuff and start decorating for fall because it seems like it a bit more this week than last. I love your waffle too…i want to give him a kiss.

Nancy-The Goat and The Kid - I think I may actually get out of the house. Back to school sickness has ravaged my house. No fun! But amazingly, I feel peaceful amidst the chaos. I think some baking is in order today, too. What to make???

Jess - laundry as well, shopping, not the fun kind…groceries.
trying to take in every day slowly, just one day at a time.

Victoria - Wow, makeup AND hair! You go girl. 😉
I am washing my sheets today, gonna take a walk with my 4 year old since it feels like fall in Atlanta (very rare) and finishing a project! Very low key day.

Annette - totally am on board with the laundry. You win with number of loads. Hair and Makeup………….

Vera - Today I am home sick hoping I don’t have The Flu.

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cora’s playground dedication

September 27, 2009

the music and message were beautiful.
the 341 balloons…marking one for each day Cora was here with joel & jess…were so pretty it hurt.
literally.
they just kept going farther and farther away….
and i thought again "i just can't believe this happened."
i still feel complete disbelief when i think of all jess and joel have gone through this year.

through the tears…
there was worship and fellowship.
there were smiles and hugs…cupcakes and popsicles…many children playing on Cora's Playground.

it's not the way we would've chosen but trusting in Christ…
knowing fully that He is good and unchanging.
He will restore.
He will bring peace and healing.

continue to pray for the Macs.

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Jennifer - I’m so sorry…and praying for them.

Diana aka "knzus" - ♥ Amen! ♥

Christina - That is a beautiful picture of them…you captured a powerful moment there.

Ruth - thank you for sharing these pictures. the love and faith of you guys over there is such an inspiration…

Renee - I often think of Cora and her beautiful little face. It’s a reminder of how blessed we are. I’m praying for happier days ahead for Joel and Jess.
OT: Meg, I may have posted something about you today. LOL If you’re offended, let me know. xoxo

Sarah - Thanks for sharing this with us. It’s still so fresh in my mind when I heard about Cora’s story. My heart is still aching for The Macs, but I hope the playground dedication helped heal their hearts just a little more, if that is even possible after such a loss.

Laura Phelps - the prayers have never stopped…

purejoy - how is it that i’ve seen several pictures from the dedication and still it brings tears to my eyes to see those balloons. such a beautiful picture. and i’m certain that cora was smiling.
continuing to pray and so thankful that you were able to be there. what a treasure this blog-world is!

Staci - My heart still breaks for them….but God is triumphant through it all….still, just makes me so sad for them 🙁 They are so blessed to have a friend in you to capture this day for them. God Bless!

angela - How blessed they are that you captured this day for them. The blessing of a friendship is priceless. I cannot imagine their pain, but I know it must be made a little easier with the surrounding of friends.

Angela - Beautiful, and oh, so sad.

Joanna @ The Casa - Sometimes it’s just so hard to trust that God has a plan.

pve - Somehow, all those balloons made me feel better.
For me it is all about the triple F, Faith, Family and Friends.
pve

Jerri - Thanks for sharing! They are truly an awesome witness!

Lindsey - I can’t even imagine. I have an 8 month old son. They are an amazing family and what good that sweet girl did in her short life.

Liz M - This breaks my heart. I wish I could absorb some of the pain, somehow cushion the blow.
From experience, time takes away the rawness.
I have come to know all of you through the blogs– far away yet close in prayer in thought.

Anna Marie - I can’t imagine going through something so heartbreaking. I think of them often. My prayers are with them. Thank you for sharing this. God bless you!
~Anna Marie

Rachel - Amen!

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in the kitchen

September 25, 2009

do you love it or hate it when there are lots of people in your kitchen?

i love it.

especially when everyone is cooking alongside me.

we invited jess, her mom kathy and her sister ann over for dinner after the craft fair
to get to know heather, sarah and julie a bit better.

it was an all girls' night!
craig had taken the boys to a football game so the house was full of girls.
lauren took all of these pictures.

we made chicken enchiladas…using the laptop as a cookbook…how very 2009.

sarah was appointed queen of the cream puff squares.

together we made a YUM-O dinner. mmmmmmm!
and dessert.

fyi….we did not use syrup for our enchiladas.
while we were cooking annie heated up some left over pancakes and ate that…and had some juice.
and we're fancy…no placemats…paper napkins….the cleaning chore chart still on the chalkboard!
i can't get it all done…thank goodness. now you know for sure that i am normal…i think.

waffle is always in the middle of a party.

kathy brought some Cora dresses for the etsy girls…they each have little girls at home.

don't you want every one of them?!
i know there are 100's of people waiting for their shop to reopen….patience ladies….patience.

even annie got to choose one….she loved that.

hope.
promise.
healing.
all in one picture.

it was so nice for all of us to get time to talk in real life….not just email.
that was one room FULL of creativity!
we discussed sewing machines and homes and fabrics and blogs and all kinds of goodness…even martha!

the whole weekend was a bittersweet blessing.
God had it all planned out.
He knew from the beginning how big these women's hearts are.
how much love there is to give.
there is nothing we can say to make jess feel better or her arms not feel so empty.
but we can support her and show her His love the way Christ calls us to do.

i read this translation of Philippians 4:13 from Kenneth Wuest in our bible study…
"i am strong for all things in the One who constantly infuses strength in me."
i liked the idea of Christ infusing us with strength.
constantly.

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Viktor - Posted on You know, I had a similar preolbm in reverse. I have two boys and the eldest (age 5) is fascinated with cooking, so me and his Mom wanted to get him an Easy Bake Oven for his birthday last February. However, they only came in pink. We knew he wouldn’t care and I really didn’t think it was a preolbm, but it still gave me pause. We ended up not getting him one for another reason (all of the mixes are made in factories that have peanut exposures and he’s allergic), but it still kinda bugged me that cooking was considered a girls-only activity.

Meredith Salmon - Made the chicken last night and we loved it. Thanks

Renee - Made your enchiladas for Sunday dinner. OMG, so good. I couldn’t stop eating (thankfully they’re relatively healthy)! Thanks for sharing. xoxo

Jennifer Wood - Meg, I have been reading and learning from your blog for about a full year now! I love your house your craft and your sense of humor! Now I know who you remind me of, has anybody ever told you you look just like Carly Simon? Well, You do!
Jen;)

elizabeth holder - Hey Happy Birthday
I don’t know if it is today or yesterday, but I remember you blogging last year, and realized mine was the day after yours and I sent you a birthday email then. Hope your weekend is wonderful.
I would love to be part of something like your dinner someday, I think it would be awesome.
i am a bit jealous {in a good way 😉

Tiffany Morris - Can’t wait to make your enchilada’s! They sound so YUMMY! Love the picture of Jess, her belly and the dresses. So encouraging for her. She seems to be so strong.
Hugs – Tiffany

Angela - Oh, wow. That last picture totally made me cry. Hope, healing. Wow.
And I really want some chicken enchiladas now. Without syrup. 😉

DreamGirlLisa - What a great post, looks like a blast. I checked out Cora’s playground link you posted, what a sad and heartwarming story. I can’t even imagine what they have gone through. Lucky she has you for support and good times 🙂
P.S. I could handle everyone one in my kitchen if mine was as big as yours! 🙂

christine - how amazing! seriously, that picture of jess’s belly in the foreground and the cora dresses in the background brought tears to my eyes. so much is conveyed in that perfect shot. you have an amazing way of capturing the moment and saying so much in an image.
on our way back home from garage sale-ing this morning, we were behind a car from kansas. made me think of you gals 🙂 we would’ve loved to have been there for the dedication, and my daughter (who helped make & sell things for the playground) was disappointed that we could not. your pictures really took us there, though. so, thank you.
may God richly bless you and your sweet family. thank you for inviting us into your home & lives.

the wild raspberry - beautiful words.

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - I never get tired of your posts. I just love having a peek into your life. What a fun evening…dinner with friends. That’s why we invest in them, so when hard times and good times come we can hold each other high. Thanks so much for sharing.

pve - I love your honesty and your cooking looks good too.
Can hardly wait to see what you do in 2010.

Starnes Fam - So many wonderful things to round out your successful weekend. Happy for you guys. And, I love how Waffle always wants in on the fun.

julie - I LOVE YOUR ENCHILADAS!!!!!!!

Diana aka "knzus" - My kitchen isn’t very large, maybe 8×10 of actual moving-around-in-space, but we live with it and make it work. When family come, about half of us will be in the kitchen yacking, never mind that most have to stand. I don’t mind people in my kitchen… unless I’ve been sick and can’t get the dishes done or something. Unfortunately, my kitchen is the next room to walk through from the livingroom. Never have liked that, but oh well. So happy to see Jess healthy and with you guys… she and her family in a lot of prayers! What wonderful time spent all you gals have had. What a blessing it is to me that you share your life online like this. You are such a godly woman and it shows in all you say and do.
P. S. LOVE Waffle… so ADORABLE.

jeanne - What a wonderful night with creative, loving women. I need the Lord’s strength daily. Wonderful post.

Debra Cripps - Wow it looks like such a great time!

Jerri - Meg, this is an awesome post…I gave you an Honest Scrap Award so if you have time, link to my blog and participate. I think your girls night looks awesome! I find myself singing the lyrics…I can do all things, who Christ who gives me strength…but sometimes I wonder what he can do through me??
PS I have said this before but I LOVE Waffle…keep saying when our doggie goes to heaven that I am done but then I see your Waffle and I don’t know…

Michelle - So happy to see the pic of Jess’s growing belly. She’s still in so many prayers.

Erin - I’m OK with most people in my kitchen…..except the MIL. When we moved into our new place she came over and rearranged my kitchen, insisting I had everything in the wrong drawers and cabinets.
NOT COOL!

Rach - I TOTALLY do the whole laptop on the kitchen counter cook book thing. I am going to kick myself the say I spill something on it too! 🙂

pam - Wow, Meg. What a memorable weekend. You have such a wonderfully big and warm heart that makes your home so welcoming.
Awesome pictures, Lauren!!

Darby - Meg, What an awesome post. I haven’t commented lately but I’m still reading every post! As I read I kept thinking, “man I wish I could have been there!” What an awesome group of women, what a wondeful night… Lauren really captured it and what a wonderful retelling of it!!

Stephanie Carroll - I don’t like people in the kitchen, but mostly because we are in our first apartment and even when my husband is in there with me, I feel like I can’t breathe.
So, here’s to praying we’re blessed enough for our first home to have a big ole kitchen to hold all of my friends and family! I would love that.

Laura Phelps - as soon as I recognized Jess’ face in the pictures, the tears began rolling.
that is one BEAUTIFUL, FAITH FILLED, LOVING, SUPPORTIVE, BLESSED, MIRACULOUS, CREATIVE, LIFE GIVING Kitchen!!!!!!!!!
even with the syrup….
I am filled with such love and hope right now after having been “invited” into your kitchen…

Dana D @BoysMyJoys - Seems like a most beautiful weekend!
Lauren took great pictures!

Meaghan - What a beautiful post. I loved that visual of Christ “infusing” us with strength. I should memorize that verse.
I discovered your blog a little while ago, and have been hooked ever since, but I have never commented. I want to let you know how much I love all of your creative ideas. I’m a stay-at-home mom (my youngest is an Annie, too!), former art and third grade teacher. I also live in an old house we’re working on, and love to sew, make art, and cook. I’ve tried two of your recipes and both have been hits (stuffed shells and chicken with biscuits). Now I want to try the enchiladas..yum.
Anyway, just wanted to say thanks for sharing so much and for being such a “normal” 😉 mom/wife/person who brightens my days and gets my creative juices flowing! You crack me up and sometimes make me tear up. Great combo!
~Meaghan

melissa - i forgot to say that lauren is VERY talented!! just like her momma!

melissa - If I had a kitchen like yours I would love to have all my girlfriends helping me cook dinner! But, the military only gives ya so much room….even with 4 kiddos! :o)
As many have said, I would love to be in Newton. You girls seem like so much fun. It obvious you have a genuine love for Christ and others. I just might come visit Beki one day…and then we can all get together. (does that seem stalkerish??? I promise I’m no stalker! LOL)
Melissa

juliann brenner - really lovely post…. And Lauren is very talented.
Juliann

Kate - Thank you so much for the beautiful updates about Jess. It’s amazing how you feel like you know someone when you are sisters in Christ.

merlin - The picture of Jess’s baby-belly made me cry. I would add “courage” to your list. Such courage. Thank you for sharing such an emotional photo, it truly says everything that can be said.

Shirley Wood - I want to live in Newton, KS! You all seem to be such awesome people. I read your blogs with tears and a lump in my throat. There is a reason the Macs live there. You surround them with love and comfort food.
Could you blog about your sewing machines? I am shopping for a new one and need some ideas.

Shirley Wood - I want to live in Newton, KS! What awesome people you all seem to be. I read your blogs with tears and a lump in my throat. There is a reason the Macs live there….all of you who surround them with love and comfort food!
Also, could you blog one day about your sewing machines? I am shopping for a new one and need some guidance.

your cool friend Cheryl - My laptop is my cookbook most of the time, too! How glamourous I must be!
Glad you had fun 🙂

Maria in CT - My favorite verse from the Bible…Philippians 4:13 – I can do all things through Him who gives me strength. I like your version with Christ “infusing” strength! What a beautiful visualization.

Kristine Robb - wow – lauren’s photography is impressive! great job!
yes, LOVE the dresses. must have one! (or more!)
i like this too: the idea of Christ infusing us with strength. thank you for sharing the visual.
glad you had such great fellowship!

Christina - So heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. It’s so wonderful to see that there is such a strong community of people there who can show her that love, and share it with one another as well.

sarah w - Lauren took some awesome pictures this past weekend!
“Bittersweet Blessing” … truly the only way to describe this weekend.
I loved cooking and eating with everyone (even if I was a bit timid about those creampuffs)
I hope that in the future I’m able to gather amazing women in my kitchen to cook, laugh, love on each other, and eat yummy food.

Emily@remodelingthislife - i think these are your most beautiful photos ever – for just their beauty and for the story they tell

Jess - it’s so great the way God worked it all out. it’s amazing how he puts just the right people in our paths.

Secret Mom Thoughts - Looks like a great time.

Flower Patch Farmgirl - I LOVE having my kitchen filled to the brim! Those enchi’s look yum. And I’ve been thinking so much about Cora and her Mama and Daddy lately. My Sister in Law’s best friend just suddenly lost her 6 month old this week to a brain tumor. It all happened w/in a week and it’s just devastating. And yet, we know, God is sovereign. It gets so confusing. I love the thought of God infusing them with strength even today,as they bury their precious Annie.

Dina - what a beautiful post – sounds like an amazing time for all of you.
p.s. I adore having a kitchen full of people helping cook!!

Summer - Beautiful! That verse truely touched me, thank you!

adrienneK - lauren took really good pictures!! those dresses are adorable!

Katie - how awesome that you guys actually got to meet in person!!! Looks like you had a great time!!!

Sandy - Looks like a wonderful time.
I LOVE the picture Lauren took through the window…you’ve trained her well or she’s a self taught natural one of the two.
Thanks for sharing.

mansi - It seems , i missed the party..haha..
I truly look forward for your blogs as they are full of life, joy, colors & excitement.
Nice blog..n..plz keep blogging daily as I miss your blog.

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entertainment

September 22, 2009

i had the best entertainment for 3 women coming to visit…

shopping!

we spent the night at carolyn's (my happy place) so we could get shopping much quicker in the morning.

it was a gorgeous morning….

we had happy baby janey by our side and we were ready to shop.
our destination was the hillsboro arts & crafts fair…a yearly event the 3rd saturday of september.
rain or shine…thankfully this year it was SHINE!
i love the craft fair booths but i also think the antique stores in town are great too.
we found all kinds of treasures.

all three women bought the locally famous granny's mustard…craig would have been so proud.

lunch was all kinds of yumminess…funnel cake…tater twisters…noodle soup…homemade pie…mmm!
we had lots of girls shopping and eating together.

and we found some not-so-special treasures.

if you are looking for a birthday gift for julie…she really wanted that angry bear wall hanging.
ha ha ha ha ha

at the end of the craft fair my friend kerry called me and said "you HAVE to come to this barn sale!"and i was so happy my guests wanted to go too.
we followed homemade signs down a gravel road to what i will now call my dream world.
it was everything i love and ten times more.

do you see why i was in love?
when i went into the first barn…of the three….i almost cried….i am not kidding.
i have been looking for THIS since i moved to kansas.
i didn't think it was here.

i felt like i was on a junk buying high.

buzzed on rust and chippy paint. :)

here is my take away from a day of craft fair bliss.

yummy.

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kristen - Just curious where is that barn and is it open year around.

Amy R. - Your weekend looked like so much fun! That barn sale was to die for! Wish I lived closer. That metal turquoise stool is awesome. Would love to see what you do with it. I enjoy your blog!
Amy

kate b - I also would have cried walking into that barn. AMAZING. I would have died taking pictures there. What a treat! And those Kansas morning shots are amazing!

Kristine Robb - i need me some rusty chairs!

Jen H. - I’m loving that green toolbox. That sale would be my idea of heaven too. I have a favourite antiques barn near me that is like that all the time. I only allow myself to visit it about twice a year!
That antler chair is one of the creepiest things I’ve ever seen.

Rachel / cREaTe - WOW! unbelievable stuff! i’m in KC … i’ll have to look up hillsboro. 🙂 i LOVE your finds. those dishes are BEAUTIFUL [the ivory ones] and that wood divider thing ROCKS & i would love to know how you’re going to use it. unfortunately, i almost lost my lunch … my page was stuck loading on the hide & antler photo … *urp* … that kind of stuff doesn’t usually bother me that much, but i guess staring at it for so long, i started to really take it all in. i had to look away. and well … now i might have become a vegetarian. 🙂

Dina - Can I just come and hang with you??? I live in Wichita and feel like I could just stalk you….I’m so joking…that’s kind of creepy..:-)…but I do love your style and also live in an old house.
LOVE every picture you post. I’m so sad I didn’t go to Hillsboro last weekend and soooo jealous of all your finds:-)

Christina - Meg, I love how you are able to see beauty in the not-so-obvious places. That is such a gift. It reminds me of how God looks at us. You are able to look at something that others might see as useless or worthless and find purpose and value.
Your treasures are wonderful and you are a treasure. I’m so glad I can learn from you.

Lisa - How can it be that I live an hour from Hillsboro and have never heard of this sale?! I’m kicking myself. Next year…
I would love to know about the barn too. Great stuff!

Tiffany Morris - Seriously… I think my imagination is stuck in your body! I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE your style. I wish you could help me with my house. I know what I want, but can’t DO IT for some reason! 🙂
Hugs – Tiffany

Mandi - Okay…I am officially jealous of Kansas!
And, about the crock pot quesadillas…they were as amazing (and easy) as they sound. I made them for my sister and her friend tonight and it was a huge hit. I see these again in my near future!

Annette - Hello, it is Annette I have to know if the barn sale was just a one time thing or is it something that is open to the public? It looks like to much fun

Sara Cameli - OOOOh Meg, loved these. That barn would make an awesome art studio…and I LOVE your picture of the chairs lined up with the beautiful background of farmland – the yellow, green and blue…and the morning shots of hay and mist…so lovely.

Tammy - Wow, I would have loved to tag along too! You really picked up some great treasures!

Vanessa {Bloom Right Here!} - And so many people think Kansas has nothing to offer! My heart started beating a little bit faster when I saw your photos. I used to live in Emporia and would drive over for the craft show. Such fun! But that barn sale?! Wow! I’ve never seen one quite like that. Thank you for sharing such beautiful pictures with us.

Shannon - I HAVE to visit those barns! Where are they exactly?

Debra Cripps - Ooh lovely things, lucky, lucky girls!!

Ashley - Pure Heaven!
I need the barn and all it’s contents!
So glad you had a wonderful time!

Adrienne Anderson - Wow!! My heart just dropped when I saw the pics of the barn sale. Is it still going on?? I’ll come down from Chicago this weekend!!

Courtney - Oh my GOSH that place rules!!!

Leigh Ann - Ohhh MYYYY!!!! Whay can’t I find a barn sale like that!

Amanda - Wow! I’m from Kansas and now live in Colorado. It’s funny how the things you’ve been searching for are always hiding in plan sight. I so love your blog! You bring a fresh and beautiful perspective to a world that is often times gloomy and somber.
Thank for sharing your life and heart with all of us!

Jodi - Hey Meg –
Can you tell me where the barn is? Is the sale only once a year?

Jenny Wenzel - Meg…it’s Jenny from the garage sale. Can you tell me where those barns are…I NEED to go!!! Or at least the contact info? THANKS – Jenny Wenzel

Jess - You would have to drag me kicking and screaming outta there! The barns look like giant treasure boxes for grown-ups. And how cute is baby Janey?
The blue chair you scored….I remember having a red one at my grandparents house. I would love to find one of those.

Kacey - Oh, what fun! All the color – that must have been incredible. Great finds!

Laura Phelps - I will be honest. I am in a grumpy mood this morning. And the pictures are making ME cry. I saw THREE things that I have been searching for. I am feeling jealous and bitter.

Staci - HOW fun!!!!!!! I’m with Misty…..I only live ONE state away from you in OK….why don’t we have great Barn Places like that??? I guess….we get football 🙂 hee heee (Although…your Jayhawks are gonna give us a run for our money this year!!!! YIKES!)

jennifer - LOVIN’ all the color!

Schrag - Where in the world are those barns?!?! I live close to Hillsboro and could totally find them. Need details – please! 🙂

Tracy - I wondered if that wood piece was yours at Molly’s…I saw it and wanted it, but then it said Megan on it…rats. Where was the barn sale….I want some of those old chairs to put on our deck. Looks like you had a fabulous weekend….what fun!!!

Summer - Loved looking at these pictures….I have to bring myself down out of the clouds now. Thanks for sharing!

Alicia - How do you do it???!! Your pictures always amaze me Meg! I love the shot with the chairs in a row and a beautiful field of KS sunflowers in the background…perfect KS! CO is very nice but I do miss KS sometimes! Happy Day!

Jaime @ Simply Arizona - Lovely!!! Yeah, I’ve been looking for a place like that here in Arizona… After seeing your pictures, makes me want to look harder!! 🙂

cally - Oh my heavens. Where is that barn. I’m in the car.

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - I think I could cry too! What an amazing place you found there…so jealous. Beautiful eye candy Meg. Thanks for the gorgeous pics.

kasey - I’m so sorry my invite was lost in the mail! I would have had a blast with you guys.
xo

coffeeanddaisies - my heart stopped beating briefly when i saw your pictures….
oh my goodness….
so MUCH goodness…
nice to read that someone else appreciates that historic value of things….
they all have a story don’t they?
i’ve gotta get my butt down to kansas!! 🙂
great pictures. thanks.

Sharla - Great stuff. I wasn’t feeling bad about missing the craft fair this year until I saw your pictures. And like others, tell us more about this barn sale. All the time or was this a one-day thing?! Love those rocks/gems!

kristi rediske - Your pictures are great-I went to the Hillsboro Craft show too-drove to Kansas to take my mom to that and the fair. I wish I would have known about that barn-where is it? Sure would like to go to that next time I am in Newton.

Flower Patch Farmgirl - I’ve nearly cried before, too. No one else seems to understand it. LOVE your finds. I would have been drawn to all the same exact stuff, except for the pink polka dotted tub thingy. (sorry)
By the way, did you ever find your chicken feeder/coop thing you were looking for last Summer? I still think of you when I see one out at a flea.

valerie - You got some gorgeous pictures of what looks like a beautiful morning!
And I agree with Julie. I think I need that angry bear. Even if it’s just to hide it in cabinets and scare my husband. 🙂

traci - yep, i think you died and went to junk heaven. that barn is awesome. i would get lost for days in there. great treasures. love the clock!!!

Sue K. - having flashbacks of kane county with you…those were good times!!! i miss them and you :(. looks like you had the BEST time. i especially love the old aluminum chairs…those COLORS…

chris - Love it all what fun , I linked to you today in my post .
Chris
Just beachy

Trasie - OH MY GOSH……Tell me more about this barn sale? Is this place open all of the time or was it just a weekend thing? I so want to go there!!!!! Tell me more!

kristin - i. want. one. of. those. bikes.
and that green box you have.
and that clock.
oh, it is all so good.

HomageBlog - That sounds like my ideal Saturday! I need to find something like that around here! Love, K

Holly - Oh MY! I am coming to visit. What, you don’t know me? Sorry about that detail, but we will be BFFs in no time flat!

Julia - WHY IS LIFE SO UNFAIR??? I gasped, I cried and then I ate breakfast.

Michelle B - oh my! Wonderful! Can I come next time?

Sarah M - I wish I could find places like this in the UK. We only have expensive antique shops near me 🙁 I love those 7up bottles.

Kathy - Great finds…I want to shop there too!OMG I have to come to Kansas! You take the most amazing pictures!

Grace Matthews - I love these pictures. They are awesome. What kind of camera do you have? I just started a photography class and I am so loving it.

Heather - Looks like so much fun! I need to find me some antique/barn yard sales in my neck of the woods. I think it could be a dangerous hobby:)

sarah - It’s really unfair at how much stuff I wanted to bring home, and couldn’t figure out how to get back on the plane with me.
The picture of that bike, is amazing.
I love your EYE!
It was so fun, especially the barn sale!
Thanks for taking us 🙂

pve - i can taste the lead paint….

Jill - OOOOOhhhh, I am dying over the rusty patio chairs!!

CherryTreeLane - Oh my word…I am so jealous of all you took away–what an amazing find! I wish they had something like that in So Cal…..

Kristin - It looks like you had a blast. If you have any specific info on the barn sale. When and where, I would appreciate it. My Sister lives in Hutch and I visit her often, we would love to check it out. : )

Lori - Ooooo, envious. Such fun! Glad you had a good time!

Shealynn Benner - Great shots! Sounds like fun! Julie and I are friends. 🙂 I made the camera strap slipcover she gave you! Hope you like it! 😉

Nicole - I crack up thinking of you 4 girls who have never met walking the streets of Hillsboro!! Seems surreal!! WHAT FUN!!!!!!!!!! I haven’t been to the arts and crafts fair in FOREVER, need to do it now that we closer. I’m excited for all your awesome buys!! I need an old bench for our laundry room, I bet I could have found one at the barn sale!!

Heather @ Cookie Mondays - good stuff!

adrienneK - i would DIE at the barn sale sooo much goodness…hmmm kevins family lives in newton…we might need to consider moving lol what lucky ladies you had visiting you!!!

jody - my dreamworld as well.
love those hidden gems in the midwest…so fun to come upon. your finds look delicious!

Sarah - It looks like you girls had so much fun! I am super jealous.

Ashley Ann - I want those outdoor chairs at the Barn Sale…I want a Barn Sale! Next time you hear of one, feel free to send me an email!

dawn - OOOOH. MY. GOSH!!! I need to get to Kansas!!! Seriously, I think there needs to be a road trip next summer. My baby — and a U-Haul! She’ll be five by then — she can even help carry! (As long as we find something fun for her — she’s good to go for hours, bless her heart!)
I totally understand why you had so much fun. Completely and totally understand.

Lori Danelle - You make me want to move back home!!!
http://loridanelle.blogspot.com

Sarah - What great stuff! Those looks like really awesome places to buy fun things at. I love that pink polka dotted bucket! All those old bikes make me swoon! I think I need to visit Kansas sometime!

Trish - Um, yes I can see why you almost cried, cause I was holdin’ back the tears. So jealous right now! Why can’t I find a barn sale like that?

misty - i love it- do you know where i can get the ring that says Birthday girls have more fun?
i wish we had stuff like that in Ok!

DreamGirlLisa - What fun! Those beautiful white plates and that pink polka dot bucket are my favorites, you found some great stuff! I really enjoy your blog, it takes me to a happy, comfy place…kind of weird maybe, but who cares, right?

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a big weekend.

September 21, 2009

i am sorry to have kept you in such suspense, i was just too tired to make a post…let me tell you why.

i cleaned and cleaned…and my mom and sister helped me too.

the beds were made…the floors were mopped…clean towels were ready…

i had the privilege of hosting three women i have only "met" in blogland for an entire weekend.

we all four met each other for the first time in person on friday…at the airport!

julie, heather and sarah came to town for the cora playground dedication.

i am so glad they did….

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alyssa - I’m jealous. You got your mom and sister to help you clean your house? That right there is cause for celebration! Good for you. Now send them my way!!

missye - I’ve just spent the day exploring your blog. How wonderful it is!
Thank you for sharing and inspiring. If it wasn’t pouring cats and dogs here today, my kids and I would definitely be creating masterpieces with chalk paint. Can’t wait for the sun to shine!

Laura Phelps - when I come to visit, dont worry about cleaning, please….

DreamGirlLisa - Sounds wonderful, I’m sure being a guest at your house is like staying at a resort!

carissa... brown eyed fox - ohhhhh… i love that! very fun… very special occasion!
wow… that is just so neat! SO!

julie - Thank you and your sweet and generous family for allowing us to be a part of your lives for a few days. The weekend was amazing, heartbreaking, beautiful, sad. You went above and beyond and took such good care of us. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

tami reed - I just moved 2 weeks ago and I need to clean my place. Laundry is already piling up! Moms work is never done.My hubby does help me, thank goodness! We had a flood here yesterday in Atlanta and my area in Lawrenceville,Ga was hit really hard.Funny thing I moved away from a beautiful house on a lake! Glad I did because that house was damaged yesterday.God has perfect timing!

duchess.of.reel - This is random I know—I’m wondering if your Etsy shop is still open? I’m finally to the point where I can focus on selecting some of your fun pillows. Can you post a link for us?
Thanks *duchess*

Renee - I’m so jealous! A clean house and girlfriend time? Sounds like heaven. xoxo

Mandi - I ran across this recipe today for quesadillas and thought of you…I haven’t cooked it yet, but it sounds delicious and EASY!
Here is it:
Slowcooker Quesadillas
-Throw chicken breasts (can be frozen), can of black beans, can of corn, can of diced tomatoes, lots of cumin, and salsa seasoning (if you have it) or a splash of salsa in slowcooker in the morning. At dinner time, scoop onto tortillas, top with cheese, and put under the broiler.
I’m cooking it tomorrow…I’ll let you know how it goes!

kasey - what a special time!
xo

Jaimie - Sounds fun! A clean house always feel better too.

jennifer - SO cool!

Trish - sounds like a crazy, fun, whirlwind, emotional kind of weekend!

Flower Patch Farmgirl - Boy, you are really parceling this one out! Tell us some more!! There is nothing better than finding new friends.

adrienneK - those lucky lucky ladies!! cant wait to hear more!

Summer - That is really cool!!!

Michelle - How exciting that Cora’s Playground was dedicated this weekend! I can’t wait to see all the photos!!

Cate O'Malley - I’m sure it was a fantastic weekend! We actually hosted fellow bloggers this weekend too – I tried to cram as much fun into the weekend as I possibly could … and I’m exhausted now! Nothing like going back to work to relax. 😉 Love your guest room.

Amy - That is awesome, so glad they could come:)

Joanna @ The Casa - Very exciting and fun! Man, I love your guest room!

Jess - What a beautiful reason to get together. Isn’t blogland amazing? Can’t wait for more pics!

sarah - It was such a conflicting whirlwind of emotions leaving today….
It was so awesome meeting you, and Heather said it right… you really did spoil us!
Thanks so much for letting us into your life, your house, and allowing us to come love on the Macs and the rest of their family. It’s a special memory, I know I’ll never forget.
I appreciate your kind and welcoming heart. Your family was pretty awesome too, let them know that for me!

jody - can’t wait to hear the details. a truly meaningful reason for you gals to get together. anxiously awaiting pictures!

Heather @ Cookie Mondays - I LOVE YOUR BLOG!!!!!!!!
🙂
It was a looooong journey home. Thank, thank you, THANK YOU for such a good weekend. You spoiled us.
The cupcakes are so smooshed! Ha!
Enjoy having your house back!

Christina - I am looking forward to hearing about the dedication. My kids would have loved to be there (they have asked if they can go, but, alas, we are so far away!), as would I, even though we don’t know them.
Your weekend sounds wonderful!

Debra Cripps - Oh that sounds like so much fun!

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