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our best father’s day gift

June 10, 2014

of course i have no ideas about what to do THIS father’s day for my husband but i thought i would tell you the BEST gift we have ever found for Craig in past father’s days.

he loves ice cream.
L O V E S.

about 4 years ago now… we got him a homemade ice cream machine!

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he is not into gifts or celebrating really but he was surprised and very happy with this gift.
which made me so happy!
(i AM into gifts and celebrating so when someone loves my gift… it’s a gift to ME!)

he makes really yummy ice cream too!
we even took it on vacation with us so we could make ice cream there too.

it’s the kind of machine that turns & turns, is really loud and you fill the outside with lots of ice and salt.
it is the sound of summer.
does that make you think of your childhood?
i don’t even remember WHERE we had homemade ice cream when i was a kid… but i remember the machines.
i have one memory of an ice cream party outside the library in the town we moved from when i was 7.
i can see it from a short 7 year old’s perspective… everyone is tall… the building across the street is tall… and there is LOTS of ice cream right at eye level on folding tables.

🙂

anyways… back to the ice cream MACHINE.
i chose the White Mountain Ice Cream Maker based off reviews from my friends of what is “the best”.
also because we have a big family so 1 – 2 quarts of ice cream isn’t even enough for each of us to get a bowl.
so i went for the big machine… that is electric… not hand crank.
this machine is pricey but from what everyone says, they last forever.
i wanted it to last through my kids childhood. i wanted to create a memory for them.
making homemade ice cream, outside on the porch, on a summer night… that’s the good stuff.

if you wanted something quieter, smaller, sleeker and i guessing much less messy… you could try this one.
it makes 2 quarts each time.

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Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker

this one looks similar to the white mountain one but the motor attachment is plastic instead of metal.
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MaxiMatic 6-Quart Old-Fashioned Ice-Cream Maker

then this one i have seen at walmart and all over.
could be worth a try?
it’s about the cost of 5 gallons of ice cream.
and it makes FOUR quarts… that is pretty good!
anyone have this one? does it hold up?

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Hamilton Beach 4-Quart Ice-Cream Maker, White

and then i saw this?!!
WHAAAAAT?
an in-home soft serve ice cream maker???
ummm….. my kids would think this was THE COOLEST thing ever!?!!

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Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker

there is also an attachment you could put directly onto your KitchenAid mixer that makes ice cream?!
did you know that?

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KitchenAid Ice Cream Maker Attachment + Bonus Soft Thumb Release Ice Cream Scoop

and this has nothing to do with ice cream machines but don’t you think this green mixer belongs in my new kitchen?
it is gor-ge-ous!!!

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KitchenAid5-Quart Mixer – there are a million colors but this green is just the best!

i was looking for recipes and came across these books.
i am a sucker for a beautiful book cover.
this one is just that.
out of curiosity…. are you a fan of waffle cones, sugar cones, regular cones or NO cone… bowl only?

Sweet Cream and Sugar Cones: 90 Recipes for Making Your Own Ice Cream and Frozen Treats from Bi-Rite Creamery

the thought of a cute ice cream shop in brooklyn just seems dreamy…

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Ample Hills Creamery: Secrets and Stories from Brooklyns Favorite Ice Cream Shop

and hey… even if you are dairy free there is still ice cream to be enjoyed!
woo-hoo!
everything in this book is based off coconut, almond or cashew milk.
i would be up for trying that!

Dairy-Free Ice Cream: 75 Recipes

we made milkshakes the other night and annie requested Oreos in chocolate ice cream.
i tasted it.
it was U N R E A L.
how is that not a flavor in the store?!!!
how are they not making millions off of Chocolate Cookies & Cream?!!
what is wrong with the ice cream makers of the world?!

🙂

what is your favorite flavor ice cream?

and help me…. what should i get craig this year for father’s day???

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Whitney - What a fun gift! Our summer bucket list includes breaking out the ice cream maker. As for ice cream flavors- The Ice Cream Factory in my hometown in Maine makes Chocolate Fudge Oreo (chocolate ice cream with oreos and a fudge swirl) it’s my favorite! And makes an awesome milkshake! (They also have terrific flavors like Cherry Seinfeld- chocolate ice cream with white chocolate chips and bing cherries! Yum, now I want to drive the half hour to them and make my own sundae with chocolate fudge oreo!)

Valerie - I have the Sweet Dreams and Sugar Cones book and I really like the recipes I’ve tried – salted caramel and the chocolate using dark chocolate are my favorites. I’d like to try Jeni’s and the Perfect Scoop sometime because I hear them recommended as well.

marcie - Get him a gigantic (like laundry basket-sized) basket of every type of ice cream topping known to man and then y’all can try new combos and make memories all Summer long! My dad adores ice cream and the old-fashioned hand churn is a major Summer memory for me.BTW, my dad orders his hot fudge topping by the case from some fancy-schmancy place and he is not like that at all except when it comes to his ice cream – so go for the toppings!!! Happy Summer!!

Jermaine D. - I would add my FAVORITE cook book of all time: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams at Home. They are smaller batches, so you’d probably have to double for a big family, but they are SO GOOD! She goes into the chemistry of making good ice cream and these actually have a great texture after freezing, unlike the typical icy vanilla homemade ice cream, which is best eaten right away. She also has a new desserts cookbook out. I also have a bigger Hamilton Beach ice cream maker that has worked well for 5+ years! Hmm, I am already dreaming up which flavor ice cream to make next…

Tiffany - Oh, Meg… an ice cream post?! Just when I didn’t think I could like you more. 🙂

I’m into gifting experiences. We have enough stuff. We are taking my husband sailing. He has talked about wanting to do it forever. Not sure if Craig would be into that, but doing something special and unique as a family is such a wonderful gift.

Kim - We had a mixer similar to the Hamilton Beach for about 10 years until part of it got lost in a move. We now have the Hamilton Beach and it has worked well for about 3 years now (granted, we only use it about 3-4 times per year) but for our needs it’s great. Our first ice cream machine came with a recipe book and one of our favorites is the cinnamon ice cream! Yum!!

Sarah - You have just given me one more reason to want a Kitchen Aid! Why oh why did I not ask for one back when we were getting married. It’s so much harder to convince the hubby I need one now when I’ve already survived nine years of marriage without. I think the idea of just having an attachment to store for making the ice cream is such a great idea. I get kind of annoyed by large appliances taking up room on my shelves.

My husband’s favorite Father’s Day present was a root beer sampler I put together for him a few years ago. I bought a ton of root beer in glass bottles. I tried to get a dozen different brands, but couldn’t find quite that many. He loved it and it has become a yearly tradition (and shopping challenge for me). This year he just asked for music, but I am thinking about getting him a bunch of stuff to organize his tools and work bench area. Not looking at that messy eyesore every time I need to borrow a tape measure would be a great gift for both of us. 🙂

Sarah{Handbags*and*Pigtails} - I bought that 2 QT Cuisinart ice cream maker above from a neighbor’s yard sale a few years ago- 5 bucks! We made so much ice cream that year! So don’t forget to check yard sales. People clean out and don’t want unused appliances taking up space in their kitchen. Ice cream makers can be one of those if you don’t use it enough. 🙂 Happy creaming everyone!

colleen - So, I looked up father’s day gifts in kansas… u have to check this out! out!http://www.cloud9living.com/kansas-city/popular-experience-gifts
Personally I think the hot air balloon ride is a good one…. bet he’s never done it before!
so funny!

Julie - We really love homemade ice cream at our house too, but so far every machine has been a dud or more work that it appears to be. We had the Cuisinart soft serve maker, but a lot of the plastic pieces broke apart after less than a year, it was hard to clean and took up too much valuable space in our freezer — so it got dumped. 🙁
For your ice-cream loving husband, you could splurge for Father’s Day and order him something from ecreamery.com! Their shop is here in Omaha, NE, but they ship anywhere, and you can even “create” your own flavors and ice cream names. (If anyone is coming in to town for the College World Series, it is a fun place to stop!)

Cheryl Jaeger - Thank you for this post. I had no idea the KitchenAid mixer had an attachment for making ice cream. Where have I been?!?!

Tanya H - Sooo my grandparents had a tradition of making homemade ice cream for all birthdays, which ended up being a once-a-month event when I was a kid. My family had moved away so my dad carried on the tradition for us. He does raspberry, strawberry or peach, but the #1 requested by my mom and siblings is oreo. For my wedding, we were given a machine like the Hamilton Beach white that you’ve shown. My husband found a recipe book by Ben & Jerry’s and that was what we gave as wedding gifts for a long time- an ice cream machine and the book!
I think we went thru two of that style in the first 6 years of our marriage and we’re currently “in the market” for something better. The second one was broken when we loaned it out.
You can find the book here: http://www.amazon.com/Jerrys-Homemade-Cream-Dessert-Book/dp/0894803123/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1402502245&sr=1-1&keywords=ben+%26+jerry%27s

Heather - LOVE homemade ice cream. My mom likes to remind us that “back in the day” they had to sit on top of them while someone else cranked them. If you haven’t tried some chopped up Snickers in plain ol’ vanilla, give it a whirl. It is yummy. I prefer waffle cones! And we got my husband a fishing cart and we are headed to the beach and pier to let him fish to his heart’s content. Maybe the family could take in a baseball game together and head to your favorite ice cream shop afterwards? I think experiences are just as good as traditional gifts sometimes!

Heather S. - LOVE ice cream. Too much. It’s my food achilles heel. I can turn down any dessert except that. The cake lady above? I’m her polar opposite. Hold the cake, just give me the ice cream. We should do birthday parties together. 🙂
Faves: mint chip, cookies and cream, espresso chip (my mother in law makes this THE BEST).
We have an ice cream maker we’ve had since we got married 15 years ago. Something is wrong with it and it’s no longer working. I took that as a sign that I should stop making ice cream, but now I;m eye-balling that Cuisinart one as you are the second person to mention it to me this week. I like that it makes *less* – that means less temptation.

Amy Huff - Summering with my Grandparents in Eureka, KS meant lots of ice cream outside but we got to crank it! Luckily there were a lot of Grandkids.

I have both of those ice cream books, I’m also a lover a gorgeous covers, but the best recipes I’ve found are in The Perfect Scoop book by David Lebovitz. So yummy!
http://www.amazon.com/The-Perfect-Scoop-Granitas-Accompaniments/dp/158008219X

Jen - My husband actually asked for TIES this year!!

Malinda - Love the KitchenAid, but I think you could DIY it!

http://lifeasiknowit-blog.com/2014/06/paint-kitchen-aid-mixer.html

Jen - We have the same ice cream machine. It is loud (!), but makes great ice cream! We are on our second motor, however. I love mint chocolate chip, but we always make vanilla in our ice cream machine. My husband is getting a power washer this Father’s Day.

Beth Ann - We were on vacation in the Ozarks a few years ago and bought a cheapo sunbeam one while on vacation (it was on clearance at Walmart for like $10 or something crazy cheap, we were looking for pool toys). We made ice cream on the patio overlooking the lake. I had completely forgotten about it and it is sitting in my basement as I type this. I need to get it out today. My kids and I are going to a pick-your-own strawberry farm and I think that ice cream and strawberries sound great! I might need to whip up an angel food cake quick too! Does anyone have any favorite ice cream recipes they’d care to share?

Kirsten J - Ok (whispering here) – I really don’t care for ice cream. A taste here or there, maybe, and maybe fudge brownie something or other once in a great while. At parties I always say “cake only, please” and people think I’m nuts. But my family knows that little quirk about me. Also, smoothies make me gag. Although….you triggered a memory, and when I first started dating my hubby, 35 years ago, they had an ice cream maker. And I think that would be an excellent Fathers Day gift – off to check them out!

Tammy - Google how to make Crush ice cream. Trust me, it is delicious. Especially with pineapple. You are welcome. yes, it’s that good!

Heidi - I have a cuisinart and I love it. Another great ice cream recipe book that I loooove… The Jeni’s ice cream recipe book. Hers is the best base, hands down.

Amy Woods - We love making ice cream! It is definitely a summer tradition for us. And we always, ALWAYS, take our ice cream maker with us on vacation. Do you have Big Red soda in Kansas? If so, mix 1 can of condensed milk per 2L of Big Red. Not really ice “cream” but it is a favorite of ours. We’ve done it with Root Beer too! 😉

Dawn Gross - Mint chocolate chip! Or teaberry. Or choc peanut butter cup. We had an ice cream maker when I was a kid — that we only used in the winter. We used snow. It was LOUD.

Dawn

Jenny B. - Fun! We used to make homemade ice cream at my grandma’s house every year on the Fourth of July. It’s my favorite holiday. We had both an electric ice cream maker and an old hand crank one. Sometimes to get the best results, we would start a batch in the electric one, and then move it to the hand cranker. You had to sit on it and put ALL your muscle into it. We took turns. 🙂 It was always soupy, but oh so yummy. Nothing else really like it. When I was little and my grandparents still had their huge garden, all the kids would go pick strawberries so we could have them with the vanilla ice cream. YUM.

Jessica - We love making homemade ice cream! I got the ample hill creamery book for Mother’s Day. Lots of neat ideas & flavors. But I was disappointed with the amount of ice cream the base recipe produces. We have a family of 5 & it barely made enough for each of us to have 2 small scoops. Our favorite flavor is either vanilla or chocolate with frozen chopped ding dongs mixed in, delicious!

lorel - A couple years ago Kevin’s aunt gave us the Cuisinart soft serve machine -maybe I’ll have to bring it when we visit! It’s a lot of fun. Those spaces on the left hold toppings and as the crank turns, you open the spigot, and with each rotation, little portions of toppings drip out, along with the ice cream.

MollyL - Actually it happens to be my current favorite ice cream at Baskin Robbins. It is chocolate with chunks of chocolate and oreo in it. I LOVE it! We will have to try Oreos in a shake this summer.

Michelle Whitlow - I LOVE homemade ice cream!!! I have a cheapo Sunbeam one I bought at Target a few years ago and so far it’s holding up. I really want to get the Cuisinart one or the attachment for my Kitchen aid. I keep holding out for Mother’s Day but clearly my family hasn’t gotten the hint 😉 Cuisinart had a lime green colored one that I wanted SO bad but I haven’t seen it in a while so I’m not sure if they’re still making it in that color.

Deb Meyers - voila! paint your hutch the color of that mixer!

Jennifer - I have that white mountain passed downed from my grandfather which he used when I was a kid, so I’d say you can expect it to last!
Also, you need this cookbook! http://www.amazon.com/Jenis-Splendid-Ice-Creams-Home/dp/1579654363
If you haven’t had Jeni’s and ever get the chance, do it!

PaisleyJade - Drooling through this whole post! We have chocolate icecream with cookies in here in New Zealand! Mmmmmm!

Becky - I have the kitchen aid attachment and I LOVE it! It’s super convenient because it just hangs out in your freezer…you don’t need to mess with ice. It’s almost TOO convenient 😉

miranda - Just bought that soft serve ice cream maker for Father’s Day. I kinda want it too. Haaa!!

Kelly - Oh my goodness!!!! THANK YOU!! I am going to get my husband that kitchen aid attachment and one of the recipe books for Father’s Day!! Ice cream (and cooking) are his THING!

Fay - We have that exact White Mountain. My parents have the hand crank abd we love to use it when we’re visiting them. Best quality ice cream maker out there! Our favorite flavor is Milky Way – tastes a lot like a Frosty. YUM!

Stephanie - I love that you husband was thrilled with a ice cream maker!
My husband will be out of town for Father’s Day this year, and was two years ago too. 🙁 so I am looking for ways to make his day special long distance!
I am kinda horrible with knowing what to buy people. I hope you find the perfect gift for Craig!

april r - So ice cream that’s homemade, is it any healthier than store bought? I’m guessing it would be . . . that self serve machine is rad (and slightly scary)

Best wishes on finding a great Father’s Day gift.
My guy loves movies so we’ll get movie tickets. And a professional car wash is something that’s a splurge for him too. We live near the beach and sometimes that’s what we do instead of gifts – just spend all day on the beach.
Maybe thinking like that – events, concerts, service, etc will help you find the right thing this year 🙂

Tammy - You need to look up Jeni’s Ice Cream. She is an Ohio favorite and has the best unique flavors. I think she has two books out!

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may’s craft weekend

June 9, 2014

oh these girls.
such lovely women…. every single one.

we don’t allow our guests to clear their plates… they have a hard time at first.
but it doesn’t take long to catch on. 🙂

my kids popped in friday evening to bring me my computer that i forgot at home.
but really they were hoping to get some of kimberlee’s cake.

prettycolor
we worked on several projects that were colorful and happy.
everyone loved using the scroll saw and learning how to cut stamps from potatoes.

kimberlee’s cinnamon rolls are everyone’s favorite.
i am getting brave and may finally try to make them for my family this summer.
i’ve heard that her recipe is really user friendly… i need that!
🙂

our field trip out to Bearly Makin’ It and their barn of antiques was a success.
but really…. when isn’t it?
everyone found treasures to remember kansas and craft weekend.
the weather was magnificent!!

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how cute is that birdcage filled with bird figurines?!

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some old and not-so-old cookbooks.
PicMonkey Collage
i scored loads of vintage sheets, an afgan for my oldest’s dorm room and vintage notions at the thrift shop.

we had a weak moment and tried on the wigs.
they claimed they were “new” and they looked “new” so we put them on.
it was so funny… we looked like our moms from our childhood!

seriously so many beautiful junky finds!

we ate on tables built by the guys at the barn.
they build them from found barn wood & porch posts… i love them!
they will make them in any size you want.
i have two BIG ones in the craft house too.

kimberlee’s salad and snacks, outside on a gorgeous day, surrounded by my favorite things = AWESOME.

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this green tool box made it’s way to my kitchen too… i mean… DUH!
it had to!
i had no choice. 😉

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kansas was totally showing off last saturday.

jessica’s pile she brought back from shopping was really fabulous.
that globe is probably the coolest i have ever seen.
she is lucky she saw it before me. HA!

saturday night is always full of even more crafting!
laura created this AWESOME wood art project and taught our guests to make it too.
i loved her creativity and then how everyone interpreted it with their own style!

wood art bags
lauren showed us how to use potatoes to make stamps.
it’s always cool to see everyone’s different ideas!
once you start stamping it was hard to stop!

we made pom pom garland again.
it is just such a happy project that i think everyone should do it.
we used THESE POM POM MAKERS by Clover.
you should order them… you can thank me later.
you will LOVE it… your kids will LOVE it… and i am willing to bet you will have a hard time stopping!

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RUFFLE APRONS!!

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Laura and Lauren were our helpers this weekend…. SO great!!

This job is so much fun.
the women are nervously excited when they arrive and they ohhh & ahhh over everything.
they love to create so we provide them with all the supplies to do so!
they love to eat delicious food (of course) so kimberlee spoils them rotten.
they love the friends they come with and they all make friends when they get here.
they share their stories… their tears… their laughter… their hearts with all of us.

i love Craft Weekend.

If you would like to come to Craft Weekend first READ THIS and then get on our Wait List by sending an email to whatevercraftweekend@yahoo.com.

I hope i get to meet you someday!

And now we are off for the ENTIRE SUMMER!!!
Wooo-hoooo!!!

bring on the swimsuits, popsicles, camp fires and sleeping in!
yay summer!

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Kristina - Hi, would you mind telling me where you got the wood “hello” words you used on the wreaths?

Thank you!

Kristina 🙂

Building a Shiny Studio | Shine Girl Art - […] Considering that just a mere month ago I was describing myself as a “glue gun girl” at CraftWeekend, I am beyond excited that I am now what I would call a “sewing person!” I was firmly […]

Lina - Where are your sandals for meg???

Lina m - Hi meg couple of questions what size Pom Pom maker do you use and do you mind sharing where you got your turquoise sandals and eye glasses are from. Everything looks beautiful.

CathyC - How cool! Laura was there as a guest when I was there 2 yrs ago. So awesome! It never fails, EVERY single time I see pics of the craft house with people in it I feel the same way I felt when I was there. I can still feel myself there when I look at those pics! Pretty amazing. What a great time.

april r - dear kansas sky,
i love you

dear meg and kimberlee,
thanks for sharing 🙂
this vicarious craft weekend was rich and made me grin!

Karina - I LOVE those tables! And you look amazing!

Kristin S - That field of chairs. You kill me every single time you post the chairs! Around here, even all rusty and fun, those would be about $90 each. ugh.

Jen - Wonderful, colorful picture, Meg! I want to know where you got your cute green sandles and where Miracle got that bright blue striped shirt. Cute!!!

Alicia @ Investing Love - This all looks so fun!!! Pick my name already, will ya!?! 😉

Roganne - I always love the craft weekend post! Everyone always looks like they are having an awesome time! I can’t wait to save up enough money to get on the list! (And then wait for my name to come up!). You are looking great too! Your sugar detox journey is showing!!

Lisa - One of these days I’ll get there! Ahhhh Summmmmerrrrrr!!!!!!!

amy jupin - i need to finish my apron.
all these pics are making me jelly that i never finished.
guess i have to come back again.
maybe annie can help me when she’s finished her quilt!

Jenny B. - So many beautiful things (and people!). 🙂 And, can I just say, Meg, you look SO YOUNG! In EVERY picture! 🙂

paige - i can’t even sew a button but i sure wish i was a crafter EVERY SINGLE time i see you post about craftweekend!! makes me smile in my heart!

Jenna - I miss this. Seriously brings back such happy moments! 🙂 You ladies rock!

Laura H - I always covet craft weekend! The pictures are so crystal clear! And you gals seem to have so much fun! I am jealous. (My hubby doesn’t get it) ha!

By the way, you look FAB!!

sarah - looks like a great weekend!! I have been on the list for a few years now…hoping I get picked to come soon 🙂

Amy - There are no thrift/junk stores like yours in my neck of the woods. So jealous!

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crazy owls

May 27, 2014

so summer is here.
the kids are home with no routine.
how does it creep up on me every single year?!!
we need that summer list made.
we need a plan and a bit of a schedule.
more reading and drawing.
less tv.
more crafting and baking.
less screen time.
more swimming. more sunshine.
less basement darkness with video games.

on friday… i started this project and it didn’t go too well… at first.
there was crying and door slamming and drama.
it had nothing to do with the project but everything to do with moods, feelings, sleep deprivation and new routine.
but i stuck with it.
i knew my mood needed adjusting too so i stayed right at that table with my owl i drew and kept on coloring… for like an hour!
coloring makes you feel better – it’s a fact.
and then one kid came back, saw the nearly finished project and said “WHOOOOA! Can i make that too?!”
🙂

and even after that… “WHOOOAA!!! annie did YOU draw that? I want to make one too! how did you do that?!”
i got to listen to her teach it from the other room.
pretty rad.

what i say in the video (in case you don’t feel like watching) is that this is Continuous Line Drawing.
(or continual line? i don’t know)
it’s where you draw but don’t lift up your pen when drawing… everything is connected.
it’s very flowy and swirly.
not many straight lines… just letting the pen move freely.
then filling in each spot with color.

i made a super amazing video on how we made these owls!
just kidding.
i made a very average video of me drawing an owl for over 3 minutes.
but it may help you overcome your fears if you watch it so that you can make this project with your kids… i hope.

annie is a very professional videographer… 🙂

owl2
these were a few different designs we drew.
and then you can see this one side by side of the drawing and the colored in drawing. owl1
each section… each time a line intersects with another we changed colors.
almost.
these take a long time to color but totally worth it.

you could use crayon… colored pencil… oil pastel… or markers like we did of course. owl3 owl4 owl5

now get going.
continuous line drawing is calling you.
and of course you could draw anything… it doesn’t have to be an owl!

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Ashley - Thank you so much for sharing this awesome activity! We did this as part of our homeschool activities today and my kids LOVED it!! It was so much fun!

Jeanine - What a blessed life you lead. I was seriously born into the wrong family lol. I just caught up on your summer 2015 pictures AMAZING, GOD is GOOD!! Anyway, thank you for sharing this video! I TOTALLY love this project doing it now!!!!

Craft Monday - […] today we had nothing on the docket so I decided to steal another craft idea. I was terrible at drawing the owl. TERRIBLE. Violet actually drew both herself and her […]

Emily thompson - I am a avid owl fan and would love to possibly purchase a completed piece of artwork. These are truly amazing.

Continual Line Drawing | tinyartroom - […] I am so loving these continual line drawings of owls that my 3rd graders are working on. It is so hard for some of them to let go of perfection. They look at me like I am absolutely nuts when I tell them they can’t pick up their marker until they are completely finished with the drawing. Luckily, there is a great, short video on the original site for this project. It can be found here: megduerksen.com […]

Love the Little Things | ss_site_title - […] girls have had friends over almost every day so it’s all been a bit crazy! I did however read this post over on Meg Duerksen’s blog and watched her video tutorial which inspired me to get […]

Karen - You are an artist Mom who is serving The Lord with all your might! Your children are so blessed to have you!
What a great project! Thank you for sharing!

Laura Reichert - It is great to try this idea using other animals: turtle, zebra, butterfly, dragonfly, hippo. Lots of fun and variety.

Su - Just wanted to let you know that my daughter and I did these with a group of girls at a craft camp we run. Since they take such a long time to color, this is what they worked on if they arrived a little early or finished a project before everyone else or were waiting for their mom to pick them up. Thanks for the inspiration. I linked to this post so my readers could make their own Crazy and Colorful Owls. Here is my post if you want to check out the owls we created: http://www.susoutter.com/2014/07/crazy-colorful-owls.html

Kid Doodles: Drawing Outside The Box - Sunshine and Hurricanes - […] week, we discovered continuous line drawing after reading Meg’s post and spent a few days making all sorts of pictures with this concept. My sister and her 3 boys were […]

heather - what a wonderful idea! thanks for sharing

Hello Summer! | Leah's Thoughts - […] Drawings – I got this idea from Meg at Whatever. I’m not super artsy, but I’m willing to give this a […]

For Your Weekend | It's the Summer Slow Down - […] you to Meg at Whatever for this amazing easy and fun craft […]

Flower Patch Farmgirl - We’re on it!!

Vanessa - Thank you Meg! There are random owl drawing sightings popping up in different colors all over the house! My girl is in love with that art idea!

Jenny Logan - Hey there! I love how you advocate for wells and fresh water in Africa. I saw this on YouTube and immediately thought of you. :0) it’s people in Africa reading tweets from people in the US that are first world “problems” it really hits home to the ridiculousness of what some people are problems. Just thought I’d share with you. :0) here is the link: http://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=kp&v=fxyhfiCO_XQ

Valerie - I love this idea – I love doing crafts with the kids. Mine are still young (2 1/2 and 5), but we might try it anyway. These are great! Thanks for the inspiration!

Alisha - Thank you so much for this ! It was great fun !

Kristen - We have gotten 11 inches of rain today, and I just want to say that your continuous owls have saved my patootie today. Bought me a few minutes of precious quiet time. Thanks ever so much!

Se7en's Fabulous Friday Fun #224 - se7en | se7en - […] I think we definitely need to get ourselves some new markers, well any markers… like really: Whatever’s Owls are just stunning!!! […]

Kerry - My soon-to-be 7 yr old made an owl today and did a really good job! I think she did better than her mom ; ) Thanks for the idea! (and my kids love your video…especially when you say “oops! I lifted my pen!”)

Seriously Sassy Mama - How fun. That would certainly keep my three girls busy!

kelly owens - these are amazing! My 7 year old is working on hers right now and loves this idea! She asked if you had other animals or patterns to share? If you guys make more please please post because this was a huge hit! thank you for your awesome video.

Julie C. - My kids and I did this project yesterday and we loved it! Thank you for the video tutorial, it was critical to our success! We’ve done many of your art projects in the past, this was definitely one of our favorites:-) Thank you!!!

Amy - I thank you so much for this!! I am only somewhat crafty and at first this looked difficult, but the video inspired me to try it with my 5-year-old and we sat and colored for a couple hours that morning. She did two of them and wants to do one with her daddy now too! 🙂 I told him that night that it just helped our day get off to a good start by me taking the time to do this. Thank you for the many ideas you list on here! Please keep them coming 🙂

Lisa - My 8 year old daughter and I did these today. I home school her, and it was a fun thing to do to end our last day of school. Thanks for sharing such a cute idea. I’m thinking of using it at a church function that I plan for the kids as well.

meredith - just made one! perfect art therapy!

melissa - love love love!! thank you so much for posting a video! definitely getting on this project asap! 🙂

Seamingly Sarah - Oh, you have drama too? I thought my six year old was the only one bringing it to the table these days. 🙂

I love this idea, I’ll add it to our summer list. Unfortunately “summer” for us doesn’t start until June 24th. Yuck.

Sara - I totally plopped down at the table during the baby’s nap yesterday and followed your video tutorial and started coloring! It was so hard to stop when the baby woke up! It was just the mental vacation I needed. Thanks for posting the video (thanks, Annie! great job!).

At first there was music drowning out your voice and I was wishing that you or Annie hadn’t done a music track because I couldn’t hear you talking us through the owl drawing. Then I realized that my Pandora station had automatically turned on when I opened the laptop. Ha! It was nice to hear your voice after reading your blog for so long (once I turned off the loud music…). 🙂

tara - in love.
can not WAIT to do this with my kiddos.
wonder if i can coax my boys into doing it with me?
lydia and i will BEG.

Kristin - These are so amazing! I need to draw and sit more. Thanks for the inspiration! 🙂

Stephanie - Thank you for lending this completely unartsy mom some inspiration!

Lisa - Love, Love, Love this idea. Thank you for always sharing and inspiring us.

Karina - I love these…I will be referring to your blog this summer when I introduce craft activities…long overdue, but better late than never, right? Our school doesn’t let out until the end of June, so I have lots of time to pin ideas! (I still need to know how you painted your railings, btw…please!)

Routhie - This is a great idea. My kids and I have to be out of our house after I pick them up from school tomorrow, so depending on their moods and the humidity, we could be at the park or sitting in a coffee shop. I’ll definitely bring everything for this in case they want to stay indoors.

Kristen K. - Meg, what a PERFECT project for artsy owl-lovers like us! I really love how yours turned out. THANK YOU! We still have 2+ weeks of school here in Philadelphia, but I’m hoarding ideas for summer like my life depends on it!!! Oh wait, it DOES! Our 4 tend to sleep too much, eat too much, whine nonstop, and beg to swim at Grammie & PopPop’s incessantly. And I just wanna craft! So this is just what we needed…thank you!!! Will be praying for you and yours, and the awesome goals of sun/fun/unplugged summer time!

Kerry - Meg this is SO cool!!! And easy enough for me to try even though I have ZERO drawing skills 🙂 Loved seeing you on Video again too! Kerry x

Julie - These are beautiful, all so individual, love the expressions on all their faces, especially love all that colour. Might be one of my weekend projects, while the hubby and kids are away. HMMMM

Dawn - I love this!! You actually make me feel like maybe I could do this.

Rebekah - I’m totally doing this with my girls this summer. Thank you!

Sami - But owls are in. And fun and cute and did I say fun? I’m SO doing this. Kids or no kids!

Marla - 10 month old in bed…husband at work….Totally just did an owl, turtle and a butterfly. love.

Kimberly - How cute!

Lori - Meg – you inspire me to be creative!!! From the pictures I would have said NO WAY! I can’t do this! But your video made it seem possible. Thank you, Meg! If you were to post a video once a week with either a kid or adult project like this – I would pay tons of money to subscribe! =) A virtual craft house!!

Amy K. - Those are amazing – adding them to the list for Make Something Monday, from a schedule I found here: http://www.somewhatsimple.com/summer-schedule-for-kids/ We have done it here for the last 3? years, and my kids like it so much, we use it for spring break too!

Jenn - Okay, these are awesome! We will be doing these. Thank you!

Kristen - Love this idea! And I’ve totally been stalking your blog waiting for the summer list . . . we made our own list last summer and are going to do it again this year!

Jamie - Thank you for posting this! School is out on Thursday and I cannot wait to try this with my kids!

Lorie - I am absolutely adding this to my girls summer crafts!! I love doing continuous drawing doodles and coloring them in different colors like you mentioned, but never thought of drawing something other than an abstract doodle! I love it!!

Katie Skiff - Love this. I think I’d have to draw for my 8yo, but then again, she might enjoy trying this. Good idea!! 🙂

Sue Linse - I can’t get the link to the video to work. I like to see you live…like you were still teaching crafts at MOPS 🙂

Deb Meyers - Love those owls! In college we did a self-portrait exercise where you look in a mirror and draw your self continuous(ly?)… don’t lift pencil… WITHOUT looking at the paper. Very fun!

Go gentle on yourself… new house, end of school… lots of replenishing needed. It won’t be long until screen time is not as attractive.

Kristin F. - I am buying supplies for these today!! Thanks for the lovely inspiration.

Lisa - Oh my gosh! I love these! So very cool!

Kimberlee Jost - LOVE IT.
Raining day prepared…to do OWLS!

Amy Woods - Eeeek! You make me wanna have more kiddos! I only have one. My sweet 16 year old boy…Hmmm. I bet he’d do this with me! I’ll bribe him!! Thanks for sharing. You are a precious momma. 🙂

Gina - I love coloring too. I used to always have a coloring book and fresh crayons – even in college. Now I just doodle and color in. I can’t wait to make an owl. : )

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the new house – month one

May 22, 2014

so people keep saying “when are you going to show us your house?”
and i have been like “it’s not even close to done?!”
but then today i rethought that.
i decided how will you know what is different if i don’t show the stages?
so here is our house after living here one month.

when you first walk in the door this is what you see.
complete with swimsuits on the dining room table.

the door by waffle goes out to the patio area and back yard.
we have ikea couches on their way to live with us.
there are still boxes in the corners of art supplies… i am not sure where to put them yet.

the dining room.
i have fabric (hobby lobby) to make some simple curtains… love straight stitching projects!

i have an old chandelier covered in old crystals to hang here.
but i have to paint it first.
i think it is safe to say there is a lot left to add in this space.
ha!

the entire main floor is Seashell Gray by Valspar.

front door is now on the right.
remember before when it had carpet?
for as many accidents that stanley has had since we moved in… hardwood was a smart move.
and it’s pretty.

when you are in the kitchen you can see the whole first floor.
i like that!

down the hall is a bathroom & 3 bedrooms.
we have only worked on our bedroom so far.
we put hardwood in here and painted.
i don’t feel like you can acurately tell the color of gray because of the light from the windows.
we chose Foggy Mirror by Valspar.

i am so excited (and nervous) to attempt to make this buffet look like this one.
i found an expert to walk me through it and she had all the supplies in her shop too!

THANKS jodi!
i will take pictures as i go!
this will be my first ever milk paint project… i am a little scared!

i was planning on painting our bed but then i changed my mind.
it’s staying dark wood.
it’s manly and looks good with the gray walls too.

i have curtains to hang that i got from West Elm.
i picked up the curtains rods and hardware this week.
ready for a little more privacy and not so much light in the mornings!

we have his and her closets in this house.
it rocks.
we had that ikea shelf for over ten years and four houses!
it’s perfect to hold my jewelry now.
and the necklaces are hanging from 3 key hangers from target.

we started painting the cabinets in the master bathroom.
we will continue the Foggy Mirror on the wall in the bathroom as well.
and paint all the cabinetry and molding white too.

back out to the kitchen…

the island is going to have legs on the corners but they are back ordered.
the door by the fridge had to be replaced so that is why it’s missing.

i went with green stools for the island seating.
i ordered two from walmart.com
i bought two at an antique store (and we need to cut them down 5 inches).
one i already had in my old craft room.
and one i found on craigslist and spray painted it.
my mom & dad grabbed two at a flea market last weekend that will fit right in.
the white chair is just visiting from the craft house.

i chose to leave the area around the window very open.
it took a lot of deciding and made lots of people give their opinions.
🙂
i am sure i will fill it with art work or something cool over time.

the light fixtures are from Menards.

the island turned out just the way i drew it.
so many lovely drawers.
and we use the mixer and ninja everyday so i like having easy access but LOVE having it off the counter.
we need to paint the outside of the front door!
we painted the back but forgot the front.
this is the designated computer area.
i have no idea what i want to do with this space.
it’s a wreck.
and everyday there are MORE papers!
many kids means many reminders and schedules.

the laundry room and pantry is the dark room on the left of that picture.
my favorite part of the laundry room is there is a SINK!!!
for the first time in my whole life i have utility sink.
i love it.

there are more bedrooms, a bathroom, a family room and a game room in the basement.
i go down there to say goodnight to kids and once to watch a movie.
otherwise i don’t do basements.
i need windows.
i am so glad we have that space though!
the kids LOVE it! they love that is has carpet and it’s so cold and dark.
funny how differently we think.

so…there it is.
not done.
not even CLOSE to done.
but no reason not to share it with you.

actually we are getting to the fun part… the decorating!
we are REALLY loving it here.

———————————————————————————————————

annie is picking a dessert from pinterest to make with me for our dinner guest tonight.
OY!
i am strong.
i can do this.

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teagan - Hi there… i am painting my house (like tomorrow -eeek) and I love the shade that’s on your walls…could you email me the color and brand? Thanks so much:)

Janelle - You need to do another Q&A blog post! I’m curious – do you think you’ll ever move back into the craft house? Like if you ever decide to stop craft weekend? Do you miss living in older homes or are you enjoying the newness of a new home? I have to say, I love how when you move into a place, you OWN it and make it YOURS! I love your sense of style.

Lori - I love that your blog is real and that you would share your space with us before it is picture perfect. That large chair in your bedroom – love! Oh and your jewelry makes me happy just looking at it. 🙂 Great space. I’m sure you will do amazing things with it. Btw, great color choice on the stools.

Amber - It’s wonderful! Thank you for sharing! I am loving on your Kitchen island with that space for the micro and useful things that you want to keep close but not out! I think that’s my fav! Looking forward to seeing how it shapes up and changes! Have fun!

tara - i’m so glad i came over to play catch up…
my blogging break during lent turned a little more permanent.
the time and brain space that i got back during the break has been amazing, but i sure do miss all of my favorite blogs!!!

your home looks beautiful..so glad you showed it to us before you’re all finished.
i’m foreseeing lots of amazing color added…that computer space is perfect..can’t wait to see what you do there!

Janna - LOVE your house Meg!!! Lookin so awesome! Love the white/grey and all your bright colored accents. LOVE!! I love that happy girls are the prettiest tote…my 2nd daughter turns 10 on June 12 and she so needs that in her life right now…friend trouble at school and all..how come kids be so mean to each other:( Do you remember where you got it? I’d love to find one for her bday. Thanks:)

Ayca - Meg you’re my idol! Love love the kitchen island and everything you’ve done so far! I really want to paint old furniture but I have no idea how to do it. I would love to see a picture tutorial. Please share with us! Thank you 🙂

Jenny - Love, love, love your house!! Looks so light and bright!

Mindy - You are off to such an amazing start! Thank you for sharing the before photos. Sometimes it feels like people move into ready-made homes and we don’t see all the work that went into them. Can’t wait for more updates : )

Keri - Your jewelry collection is awe-inspiring! So many beautiful, colorful necklaces 🙂

Lisa - PS- your jewelry collection is awesome!

Lora - So happy you showed us the new house! Can’t wait to watch the progress. Some day I’m going to do a milk paint project, so it will be fun to watch yours.

Alice H - I would add a cork board area and maybe chalk board in the designated computer area. Not that you asked my opinion, but that is what I would do. LOL! Love the new place.

Lauren @ Focused To Be Fit - Beautiful home! I feel like a huge island is a MUST for me!

Kerri - Thank you so much for sharing photos of your wonderful home. We live in a church parsonage that is small & dark & depressing and I just love the open floor plan and all the light in your home! The kitchen cabinets and island are awesome – and really like those light fixtures. Please don’t ever paint that bed frame and side tables!!!

Kori - I absolutely adore how open everything feels! All that natural light and white and grey just waiting for bright, inviting colors to be added. Such a great blank canvas to start with! And someday I’m going to steal your island design with the cutout for the appliances – Genius!

Elizabeth - Thank you for sharing! I think you would love a large family calendar next to your computer space next to the kitchen area. It would be open so everyone could write their activities on the wall and you could easily see it. Any hoooo, thanks for sharing. I love how open and honest you are and don’t feel like the house has to be perfect. No one has a perfect home and we ALL HAVE TONS OF PAPERS FROM SCHOOL!! You are not alone! Have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!

Lynette - Love the way its coming together.

Sarah - Great progress and so cute!! How did you go about updating the banister? Straight paint or did you have to use specific products?

Kayla - Thanks for do “during” shots! It makes it all the more enjoyable for us to see the progress and how your family really lives and that, you don’t, in fact, live in a magazine! 😀

Sarah M - We moved into the second floor of an old downtown building in Marion last fall. We are renovating and things just take time. It is an adventure, though. That said, whenever I can I use MMS milk paint to add color and character. I love it. There’s a lady who sells it in Kechi. She has a shop and does workshops occasionally.

Jenny B. - It’s coming along! I’m sure you’ll think of something amazing for your computer station / family command center. 🙂 What color are you thinking for the front door? I want to paint ours turquoise, but I don’t know if I have the guts. Our house is red-orange brick. We’re thinking about buying land and building (so exciting AND scary!), and it is really, really good for me to see your house like it is right now. Reality is that you don’t move into a new home all perfectly decorated and organized. It takes time.

Leah - You should put up a cork-board wall behind the computer. That way all the little reminders can be neatly pinned on the wall.

Holly - So glad u shared! Before and afters are the best!!! Haven’t been to ur blog for a while but follow u on Instagram. Scrolled through a few older posts and now I want to know…y do ur (& my) babies hafta grow up so fast???!!!

Lisa - You’ve helped me step out and use more color in my house. Just finished my living room/eating area and am so happy with it! It’s now so bright and cheerful. Excited to see all the progress you guys make.

Mary Anne - For the computer area, could you do a long desk for room for a few people and hanging cubbies on top for each person or kid for their papers, etc to stay organized? Love your house!!!

Tiffany - Have you ever checked out iheartorganizing? Jen has an amazing blog with organizational ideas. I could see so many amazing things in that computer space to organize all your kids’ work!

Julie - Thanks for sharing pictures of your house, I think it is always nice to see it lived in too, not just posed for photos. Can’t wait to see what else you do to it. Have a fabulous weekend.

Wendy - I have a naked hoosier cabinet that has been waiting for milk paint for 3 years … but I’m too chicken. You go first. Then I’ll follow … maybe.

Lisa - yay!! I’ve been waiting to see more pics! I want to see outside too…and hear more about where and why you picked this house, area, etc. Thanks for sharing! Love all the white too!

Andrea - Loved the tour and the new house. So glad you are getting settled…..I absolutely LOVE the kitchen…… you have great kitchens!

Michelle Deckert Richmond - Thanks Meg….it’s nice to see the blank canvas before you put your special touch to it. Take your time….Half the fun and enjoyment is in the doing. Michelle from Canada.

Denise@victory rd. - Love this.

Love seeing it mostly naked.

We have lived in our house for 2.5 years, and when we moved in blogville was hard for me because I was comparing my undone home with everything I saw online (which I know was stupid). I think a place needs to just be for a while… needs time to evolve into what it’s going to be. Our home looks nothing like I thought it would, but it looks like us, and I love it.

have a fun dinner!

Angela - Oh Megan you made my day! I have been dying to see more of your new house! You have already made a lot of progress and the fact you know some of the things you want to do is a huge step! I’m so glad you all are loving it.

Jenn - Forgot to ask….what is your process for painting cabinets? We need to repaint our already white cabinets white again. They are looking pretty shabby. A step by step would be great or even products you use would be helpful. Yours look so neat and clean!

Jenn - Already loving it! Can’t wait to see the stages.

Melissa - Can’t wait to watch you work your magic and pull this place together. It’s already gorgeous and I love the fun colors on the dinning room table and the kitchen.

jenny - oh meg! it looks amazing – so ” you ” …that kitchen island is FAB!

Brenna - What fun to create a new space – well lots of work, overwhelming at times kind of fun! Now tell me, where did you get that fabulous chair in your bedroom? Loving the material! You are awesome and strong – you got this.

Gina - Oh my gosh, your dogs crack me up photo bombing all your pictures!! I thought Waffle was on the couch in the upper picture. Love your new home and thanks for sharing!! I can’t wait to see the buffet once you paint it and all the decorating!! 😀

Jenni - Love how open your main level is! Thanks for sharing the ‘in process’ version of your home. I’m surprised that you haven’t connect with Abbe Doll in Kechi {http://www.alldolledupwichita.com}. She is a MISS Mustard seed primary educator and has a teaching studio. She is THE BEST and could do a fewer job showing you the in’s and outs of milk paint. It is tricky stuff, but the final product is awesome.

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this week.

May 16, 2014

first of all…. A WINNER for the Love Does Book.
did you read those comments?
i knew they would be great.

******************************************************************************
Brenna – I used to think that my past defined me, but now I know that God doesn’t even have a record of those mistakes. What a life-giving blessing.
******************************************************************************

email me your address and i will ship it to you!

now if you aren’t Brenna… go order the book!
it’s a game changer.

for mother’s day i asked for help with the yard work at the craft house.
and it was perfect.
there was minimal fighting and complaining.
everyone stuck to their jobs and the weather was lovely.
i worked on the hill in the bottom right corner of this picture.
i was pulling weeds and looked up and a tough looking man was looking at me.
he was covered in tattoos… shaved head…huge white t-shirt.
i smiled at him from down in the weeds.
he said “i’m disappointed you are here because i saw these flowers yesterday and was coming back to steal some.”
i smiled bigger and said “how about i just GIVE you some?”
he was shocked.
“are you serious?”
“YES! they are too pretty to keep to myself! What am i going to do with all of these flowers?!”
“ARE YOU SERIOUS!?”
i gave him some scissors and he was kind of frozen.
he cut two and i said “here… let me help you”
we chatted about where he was from, where he works, his kids, where he lives.
and i cut and cut and cut.
i gave him a huge bouquet of fresh cut flowers for his girlfriend who he said was upset with him.
he said thank you so many times and i said “be sure to call your kids today ok?!”

i gotta be honest… it was THE BEST moment of my mother’s day.
it just felt so good to GIVE.
my flowers and my smile and kind words too.

all my kids were home for dinner on mother’s day.
i enjoyed that quite a bit… obviously.
best chair ever.

last night craig, annie and i took the dogs on a long walk.
the yellow kitty followed us.
THE WHOLE WAY!
it was hysterical.
i said these three were like the real life Homeword Bound.

we have handles on our drawers and cabinets doors!!
woo-hoo!!!

this guy turned 16.
this is just crazy. how does this keep happening?!
we got him clothes and he spent a bunch of his birthday money on nike socks.
what will they come up with next?
can you imagine if we told our parents we were going to buy a $15 pair of socks?!
but there are few accessories for boys so nike decided socks were the way to go.

i like that guy.
he is going to be a really fun grown up.
🙂

i asked him to come in with me so i didn’t have to buy the food myself for my mother’s day meal.
we were serenaded by whitney houston BLASTING through the freezer aisle.
saturday night at dillons is where it’s at.

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tara - freezer aisle.
i think i misspelled it in the last comment, and it wouldn’t do for me to just leave it wrong.

tara - everything about this post was inspiring.
the words. the color. the stories. the pictures.
the thought of whitney houston on the freezer isle.
all of it.

Lisa - I loved reading this post. Especially about the tough guy wanting flowers. My husband is a tough looking, tattooed guy. 😉

kristin - Your mother’s day flower story brought tears to my eyes. You are kind.

Melissa - Love that you gave the guy flowers. I bet you made his day! We did yard work for my mom for mother’s day also!

What I’m Reading | a glass of milk - […] whose lives don’t intersect with mine in many ways, but whose posts just make me happy. This is one of those […]

Mollie @Sprinkles of Life - I love your random, photo-filled posts about what your family is up to, Meg! And love seeing all your nature/flower pics!

I especially love seeing how you guys fill your warm summer days 🙂 It came so fast this year, its crazy!! My daughter will be in 2nd grade next year. Where did the time go?!?

PS- *love* your white kitchen!! Gorgeous!

Katherine @ Grass Stains - Meg, I found the perfect mug for you a few months ago, and I bought it on a whim. I’d love to send it to you for you to keep, whether at the Craft House or your new home, if you’ll allow me to. I’ve been reading your blog for years and years, although I only comment occasionally. I think I sent you a direct photo of the mug on Instagram a while back … I can’t remember. Anyway, I’d love to mail it to you … it just screamed “MEGAN DUERKSEN” at me, and I had to get it. 🙂

Flower Patch Farmgirl - “i gave him a huge bouquet of fresh cut flowers for his girlfriend who he said was upset with him.
he said thank you so many times and i said “be sure to call your kids today ok?!”

This just made me cry. And I already knew the story!!

Kerri - What Heather said!! She said it perfectly. And I love the peonies; the home we moved from 7 years ago had several pink and white peony bushes and I really miss them.

amy jupin - i know it’s silly but these are my favorite kinds of posts.
i love the pictures and the little bits of you sprinkled in between.
reminds me of the days when i searched for beauty everywhere.
i need to get back to doing that more often.
that’s where contentment is found.
in the every day.

Su - Your tattoo guy story sounds like a story from Love Does 🙂

tinaehb3 - The flower story is the best!! And the Nike socks made laugh too…my boys are 9 & 11 and asked for Nike Elite socks for Easter and almost died when the cashier said my total was 36.00 for two pair of socks!! In my head I thought I will never tell anyone I just did this!!! Lol

KJ - I love it when God shows up as a tattooed man ready to snag some flowers, but instead leaves us with more of himself.
Reminds me of the homeless man at MCD’s…

Michele - Your peonies are so pretty. Here In north central Wisconsin I might not see mine until the 4th of July! I’m not kidding. The stems just started to peak out of the ground last week and are only like 2 inches high now. This winter was brutal. Considering it is 38 outside this fine Saturday morning….I don’t think they will speed up anytime soon!

Ana Hogan - You are so awesome! 🙂

I bought that book on the kindle today. Hoping to read it on our mini road trip tomorrow.

Thank you for being an inspiration to momma’s… and women in general!

Tiffany - I loved the “tattoo guy” story. You have such a big heart! Happy Mother’s Day!

Kristin - The story about the man & the flowers just made my day. Beautiful!

Kelly - You’re so pretty! Love that last picture and LOVE the story about the man and the flowers! God is good!! Kelly

Traci - Looks like a colorful week, and full of good things! Also. That looks like such a sweet dog. I’m jealous!

Kirsten J - I love the tattooed man story. Good, good stuff. And. We’ve lived here 7 years and I still don’t have handles/knobs on everything. Oh, we bought them way back in the beginning, but it’s a chore that has yet to be completed. Although he did finally work on them a few weeks ago and only has a bathroom and a half to go. But. We’re one knob short. *sigh* hopefully that place is still in business and has more…..

Seriously Sassy Mama - Sounds like a nice week.

CassM - Meg, I spy a Vancouver Island Starbucks coffee mug in your cupboard! So do I! (Well, I live here …) Gift from a Craft Weekend-er??

Sarah Wolfe - You beat me on the kitchen cabinet hardware. We moved into the house and after making so many decisions, I just couldn’t make another one. So the cabinet doors are still bare… I have a feeling when we finally get that done, we will wonder why we didn’t do it sooner! 😉

Sounds like you had a fabulous Mother’s Day… and I love the story about the man… I’m sure you made his day!

Heather - Meg – I’ve been reading your blog for quite a while now and I just want to say that I LOVE it!! I find all kinds of inspiration on it, whether it be spritiual, creative, fitness, junking or decorating. I find you so genuine and I just look forward to your posts. I’ve found that in the blog world, there seems to be this “need” to show only the perfectly styled pictures of our life, and while I appreciate a beautiful picture, I want to spend my precious time on things that I relate to. I usually end up feeling inadequate about my own life after reading some of the blogs out there. I never feel that way after reading your blog! I always feel inspired and like we could totally be friends. 🙂 I love your style, your home is beautiful & I’m trying tof figure out a way to move into the craft house! I really appreciate when you post pics of your laundry piled on the couch or books strewn on tables & your kids crafting! I love that you are continually striving to do/be better but still share the reality of day to day hectic life. Basically, I love your genuine-ness and your heart for the Lord and it totally permeates your blog. I just wanted you to know that. Have a wonderful weekend! – Heather

Jenn - I followed your advice. I ordered the book. (I even convinced my girlfriends that we had to read it this month, as the inaugural book for our book club.)

Amazing book! Wow! Thank you for sharing it with us!

Kim B - Cant wait for a home tour, your design/decor is always so uplifting.

Seamingly Sarah - I love the peonies! I’m still waiting for mine over here in Northern New York. I loved your story of giving the flowers to the man. What a wonderful god ordained encounter. It is so good that you saw it for what it was, a moment to give, maybe plant a seed. =)

april R - Happy belated Mother’s Day 🙂

I can just imagine that big tattooed guy years from now
thinking about the lady who gave him her attention, time, and flowers

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sunshine is like… the best.

May 10, 2014

the trampoline has been set up once again.
this old thing has served us so well.
annie asked “can we just get a new one?” and both sean and talby shouted “NO!!! This one is perfect! It bounces so high!!”
🙂

everyone is enjoying our new back yard.
we are hoping to put invisible fencing in SOON because i need some peace of mind with these two crazies.
can you get a little closer please?that’s better.
spanky
i pretty much said i am not gardening this year.
i just want to see what comes up… what kind of sun/wind/water this house gets….
but then the flowers start blooming and the colors start to pop…
and i find myself thinking about going to the nursery later.
all this sun and warm weather makes moods much lighter.
people stay at the table longer when we eat outside.
sponge bob is replaced by games of catch and bike rides to sonic.
s’mores and campfires make up bedtime routines instead of “just one more show please mom?”
we spend more time together we are outside.
summer is so close!
the pool opens in 2 weeks!

there was even some talk about camping this summer? oh my.
why does that make me start sweating?
i LOVED it as a kid.
so we should probably provide them with some memories like that.
i guess.
hmmmm…. still sweaty.

1. do you love or hate camping?

2. are you a gardener? flower or vegetable or both?

3. can you smell stanley’s breath through your screen?

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meredith - Love camping! We are so excited because we are moving from a condo with no yard to a house with a big back yard. We plan on a camping night or two with the fire pit that the precious owners put in! 🙂 Our only child is 14 months, wish us luck. At least the door to the house will be close by. 🙂

Defiantly a gardener but totally understand not doing anything this year. I am going to pot some tomatoes, herbs and maybe some flowers for fun but other than that, I totally agree. Why? Wait til next year and have the ultimate plan.

I can smell Stanley’s breath, tell him it’s not too bad. 🙂

Lisa - I love camping!!! It really is so fun. All those things you mentioned about being outside and lingering at the table longer? Those happen camping. Ideally if you could borrow or rent a trailer or rv, it’s better for sleeping. But even tent camping is a blast. I’m high maintenance with my sleep so make sure you have a good air mattress or cot. Good luck!!!

Jenn - love camping
we went a lot as a kid and we just took our kids for the first time this past weekend
gardener…..veggie (sometimes) would love to be a flower gardener but they usually die

Jenn - i love camping. we did it alot as a kid and we actually just went this weekend. it was our first time to camp with our kids (tent camp at least)
we had such a great time
gardener……veggie (sort of)
would love to be a flower gardener but they usually die.

Kristin - My husband & I grew up camping, and continued after we got married. Best trip ever was to the Tetons with our kids. We haven’t had much time to family camp in recent years because my husband & son camp with Scouts once/month. I did get to camp once with them last year, and will again in June. THAT’S an experience…being the only mom with all of those males. Using the facilities (there AREN’T any) is interesting!

I garden…both flowers & veggies. Love, love, love being out in my garden.

Debby Benson - I LOVED camping as a kid. We went over every 3 day weekend and vacation. I grew up in Cali so it was usually Sequoia, Yosemite, & Lake Tahoe. Even the beach a couple of times. Nowadays, as an *old* lady, all I think about is the dirt and pit toilets lol. I’ve gotten too soft.

Gardening….I love the idea, but I’m afraid of flying buzzing things. i’m sure the neighbors would love the daily laugh of my gardening. “Hey, there’s our crazy neighbor running around slapping her head and screaming again!!” Kansas has some GIANT flying things. They skeer me.

And Stanley…I can smell his sweet puppy breath. It’s delicious! 🙂

Karina - I hate camping! Give me a few days at a rustic cottage – the shower can be on the outside, all meals can be on a bbq – but for heaven’s sake let me have a bed to fall into at night! I like having a wild garden – I will pull up the worst weeds, like dandelions and those prickly monsters that sprout under the trampoline, but that is about the extent of my gardening. OK, I came here for inspiration and now I feel very unaccomplished, at least as far as the great outdoors go. However, that photo of four of you and your husband smooching your happy face makes up for it! (Now please get back inside and tell me how you painted your banisters. 🙂 )

Tanya H - I loooved camping as a kid! It was always a favorite thing! I’ve gone two whole nights (separate nights) as a mom and um…not so much… it’s a TON of work and stresses me out. And my kids are way too old for me to be that stressed! 🙂
I’ve planted flowers but I wouldn’t say that makes me any kind of gardener… I am hoping to plant a few veggies this summer…like…this week… 😛
And really, I love that pic of the four of you all squished in and happy! 🙂

Stephanie - I loved camping as a kid! But now we live in Florida. Land of endless summers and bus sized bugs of every kind. No way would I go camping here in the summer. The late fall here is perfect camping weather and our kids have done it quite a bit in our backyard.
I am a veggie gardener mostly, but also have some fruit trees. I dream of having an orchard.
Stanley is SO cute. I have not had a dog since I was 3, but my kids are dying to have one. I think I am giving in. When I see your happy pups I think “it can’t be that bad…..right?”. 🙂

layla bb solms - love camping (never go, husband hates)
gardener – of flowers – in training
I wish I could smell Stanley’s breath! I LOVE dogs. we have a cat; I love him, but I need a dog. I would hug and squeeze and roll around in the grass with Stanley!

our trampoline has bounced its last behind; when school’s out in a few weeks, our kids will be disassembling it. the end of an era. boo hoo.

Amy Woods - 1. L♥ve camping! As long as it’s in an RV. We used to tent camp, but now I’m 41, and I want some A/C when I’m sleeping!

2. kinda both…well, mostly I pick out pretty flowers and help hubby plant and then forget about watering them. Luckily my 16 year old son is excellent at remembering to water! And the veggie garden…I’m more into the harvesting, but I help out the hubs and son with each step. 🙂

3. No…could you have him smile a little bigger? 🙂

Necole@seriouslysassymama - I love camping. We are planning something for this summer. I like to plant flowers, but living in Texas, there is always a drought, water restrictions, and everything dies. My flowers in the front flower bed are still blooming, and that makes me happy.

Jennifer B. - I love camping! My family had a small pop-up camper when I was a kid, and I begged my husband to keep it when my parents decided to get rid of it. At the time, we didn’t have a good spot for it or a car to tow it.

So now my 4-year-old son and I camp in a tent, and it’s a little more work, but I still love it. And he is growing to love it too! I keep it super simple and we only go for about 2 nights. Air mattress is a must-have for me. And I just bought us a new tent so we’ll have a little more room to spread out.

Your kids would LOVE it, and I bet they could entertain themselves while you relax/read/photograph. You might even find a place where you could rent an RV if you wanted to take a longer vacation.

As for gardening, I love the planting. Not much on the upkeep. I usually garden all Mother’s Day weekend, but we had other stuff going on this year. I just planted a bunch of container flowers to put by my front steps. The rest will have to wait. And I really wanted to try vegetables this year, but a bad sprain put a crimp in that plan. Maybe next year?

KATIE NC - what happened to Spanky’s kittens? and the chickens, when are they moving over to the new house?

Rebecca - Camping, in my opinion, is a Holliday Inn Express….Stanley…I can definitely smell your stinky breath. You need a Greenie!
I’m not a gardener either..I wish i was!

Mollie @Sprinkles of Life - What an awesome location and yard you have!! Seems so big and not surrounded by multiple other houses on top of each other!

Kristen K. - I consider myself to be “the queen of all things INDOORS” :-), but I married an Eagle Scout…so how did I think I was going to avoid camping? Our 4 kiddos are Scouts, so they camp a bit with them…but we go tent camping about 4 times / year, summer through fall. And I HATE HATE HATE to admit it, but we have made so many amazing memories by being together, unplugged, under the stars out in nature. I just wish that nature didn’t have so many bugs, poison ivy, and rocks that jump out of nowhere to trip us! You and your family are amazing, and God will be camping with you, too – I say, add it to your summer bucket list, and bail if it’s too crazy! (and bring a cot or air mattress…the ground is HARD!) 😉

Wendy - I have a vintage aqua and white trailer … kids love it just as much as I do. It is a lot a work, but makes some wonderful memories. ADVICE: Keep things simple and electricity is a must.

Meg - The last pic of Stanley. Oh my gosh. Love it! You totally need that as a print in your shop!

Tiffany - Meg, I just love catching up on your blog. You always put a smile on my face or make me laugh! Stanley is cute!

Chris - I love all these happy pics! Your new yard is so pretty.

Nikki - I have yet to camp with my kids. I loved it when I was a kid too! Except, I grew up in Colorado and it got super cold at night, that part I remember not liking. We just moved to Hawaii, though (military) and I find myself much more eager to camp here because the weather is good, even in the middle of the night. So maybe this is the year to get those camping memories going!

Andrea @ This Pug Life - I’m mostly a vegetable gardener. It still amazes me that a tiny little seed turns into a huge plant and produces FOOD all summer. I guess I’m easily amazed/amused. 🙂

Jenn - I only camp in a camper, no tents. I would love to be a veggie gardener, I’m not really a gardener at all. I plant around twice a year and that’s enough for this gal! I’m not a huge fan of the summer heat…it gets really hot down here in Texas, but I am looking forward to no homework and easy breezy nights.

Tracy - Oh no! I’m sweating thinking about camping, too!! Luckily my husband feels the same way…phew! Strength in numbers over here. Good luck with that!!

Marsha Kern - Your new yard looks beautiful! Looks like your pets are adjusting to the new place. Gardening all the way flowers and veggies both-it is may favorite, my idea of crafting. Have a great day.

Suzelle - fabulous photos !!!

Seamingly Sarah - I like camping, but camping with kids is such a hassle. They hate going to do it, yet rave about when we finally go back home. I don’t get it.

I LOVE to grow vegetables and fruit. I even got into fruit trees/bushes. We were so lucky to have bought a house with two apple trees that are young enough to train and prune properly! And we put in two blueberry bushes and there were already strawberries growing everywhere AND two rhubarb bushes!!! So excited for the fruit this summer. The only thing that doesn’t seem to want to grow for me is spinach. Go figure.

And doggy breath, yet another reason I couldn’t handle a dog right now. =)

martha - Camping is for Boy Scouts!! Only!!! 🙂

katie p - I grew up camping and really loved it and still do, BUT I really enjoy it when I can get in a good nights sleep. So if that means a camper, or an air mattress then so be it! Some say that’s not real camping and my response to that is, who cares 🙂

Lydia Davis - I grew up camping every summer with my family, and I met my (then) future husband on a big group camping trip! We just took our 7 month old daughter on her first camping trip last weekend, and she loved every minute of it! Take them. It’ll be worth it. 🙂

Laura H - Wonderful pictures filled with so much happiness!
I like camping for about the first 20 minutes, then I start to whine, and look for my Oprah magazine….
I love flowers, but they do not love me! I have been planting lots of succulents this year, and a fairy garden 🙂
Your dogs are so stinkin cute!! Also the kitties! Were these your outdoor kitties? You brought them with? That is so awesome!! xo
Happy Mothers Day to you!

Heather S. - Hate camping. I’m a hotel girl. In fact, forget the hotel and book me a nice condo please. I love to work hard and play hard all day, in the outdoors even. But then the night falls and I want a nice long shower and a cozy bed and air conditioning if the humidity is high.
Total gardener here. Flowers only. Vegetables dn’t bring me the joy my flowers do.
The breath – pretty sure it’s kitty breath I’m getting a whiff of right now, but that would be from the fur ball in my lap.

Jessica Johnson - I only camp in cabins. With showers.

And Waffle and Lincoln are twins.

Debbie - Hate camping. I’ll take Hilton over a tent any day.

Yes to gardening. Flowers and vegetables. We run our community garden after my dad started it years ago and passed away last summer. Our local rotary built a huge greenhouse on the property in his honor and we have no idea what to do with it 🙂 But there’s nothing better than home grown tomatoes!

Dog breath ranks higher than the wet dog smell for me. Ewwwww.

Great pictures and I’m loving the current Midwest weather. I’ll appreciate it even more poolside two weeks from today!

Jenny B. - I remember when Sean’s only birthday request was to have the trampoline set up at the farm house. 🙂 Your yard makes me want to move to Kansas. I do not love camping. I loved it as a kid, but now… not so much. Usually, the boys go, and then I drive out for the campfire, and then drive back home to sleep in my own bed. 🙂 I am not a gardener, but my husband decided he wanted to become a peanut farmer, so we now have cultivated earth in our used-to-be landscaping beds in the front yard. Peanut seeds (which are just peanuts, I think?) arrived in the mail last week, and he’s planting them sometime this week. So… we’ll see how that goes! 🙂

Shannon - I LOVE camping. Its my favorite! Did you know that at the major KS lakes you can rent a cabin? They are super cute, well stocked. It may be too late to get one for weekends during the summer, but I highly recommend them for your first trip! They are super reasonably priced and you get the “camping” experience without too much roughing it!

Shannon - My husband got us all set up to camp as a family two years ago when we were living in Colorado. I was skeptical….we have 4 kids (5th due any day!). BUT…after we got our routine down…and I decided to take flannel sheets, pillows & a down comforter for MY air mattress, I was a much happier camper! 🙂 And, wine…and coffee. Seriously, the comforter can roll up as small as a sleeping bag, so why not?! The kids LOVE the whole experience. In fact, one of our last camping trips was near Kenosha Pass where you had posted pics of your kids in a makeshift fort that my kids randomly happened to play in the very next day! Find a nice place with toilets nearby…and you should try it!

Laura - Love camping – not with a 2 year old though! In my heart I am a grower – in reality, not so much! I wish I could rub behind his ears! But seeing that picture of the girls on the trampoline – that is killer – it makes me wonder how long I’ve been reading, they look SO big! Putting away the exclamation marks now! 🙂

Becky - Our last attempt at camping (in the backyard, mind you :)) was fraught with disaster. Vomiting, sleeplessness, crying, coming in in at 5 a.m. We’ll stick to a camp out in the living room this summer 🙂

I wish I liked camping. I wish I wanted to like camping! Maybe someday…

Rhonda - I’ve read your blog for years, and think this is my first comment. Hi friend! I only check two blogs every day, and yours is one. 🙂 I hate camping. It’s probably my dad’s fault because he took our family “camping” in a big motorhome with every luxury. We tell our son, “Camping is for other people.” We’ve also told our son playing soccer is for other children. Living in Oregon, a mom needs to purchase a wetsuit to sit through soccer season. We love basketball. It doesn’t rain in the gym. I love to flower garden, and dabble in vegetables…enough to make salsa or pico de gallo. If you lived next door, I’d bring you fresh salsa. Happy Mother’s Day!

Julie - I love summer camping – especially when the weather is hot and sunny the whole time, and we can spend long days at the beach, swimming and boogie boarding. I don’t like midnight treks to the toilet though.
I am a gardener – flowers and vegetable – as we are coming into winter in New Zealand, I don’t get a lot of sun on my garden, so it is not as pretty or prolific as my summer garden.

Love your family shots, you always look like you have so much fun together, and are all so happy.

Ka - I do love camping, but it is a lot of work. But the memories are worth it. My wish is for a camper, so I can store my camping stuff in it. Then, just hit the store and go.

I thought about a garden, but I like Bountiful Baskets (bountifulbaskets.org) and we live so close to hutterites and they sell their produce locally. Why work so hard. HA!

Enjoy the sun. I got a sunburn yesterday and it’s raining today.

april R - lol Jenni “I only camp for Jesus”
Guess I have to do some camping to find out if I like it or if I’m on Jenni’s team 🙂

I love gardening but haven’t had a chance to try veggies yet, we move a lot.

and I can imagine Stanley’s doggie-ness bc mine does the same thing right in everyone’s face

yeah summer 🙂

Lisa - Love, love camping and our older children ADORE camping. We have found in our state (Vermont) that the state run campgrounds are cleaner, more natural and overall less expensive. Wonderful memories for kids!

Rachel S - I loved camping as a kid, now it just feels like work, which makes me feel guilty. But give me a fire in our yard with s’mores any night and that kinda feels like camping. 🙂 I really wish I had a green thumb. I love looking at everyone else’s awesome landscaping and dream of someday having that. Today is our first REALLY nice day here in northern Wisconsin. Spring was so late in coming – and now I’m ready for summer! Two weeks till I host our first graduation party. Tell me I will survive and it will all work out!

Barbara (WA) - I hate camping. Mostly a flower gardener. I’m a cat person so I love the photo of the kitties 🙂

Jenni - I told my husband yesterday, “I only camp for Jesus”. For real, the only time I can do it is for a big purpose, like a mission trip. Otherwise, book me a Marriott!

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my super fabulous weekend & a giveaway.

May 6, 2014

i spent the weekend talking my head off with Shannan.
i sure do like that girl.
she is the real dealio.
(if you haven’t watched this video on her blog you need to do it right now!)

photo-54
we were trying to get a selfie on her first smart phone… it was pretty hilarious.
i wish we had video of that!

we tried to thrift shop.
stupid Siri screwed it all up for us.
she took us to closed down businesses THREE times in a row.
we felt defeated.
and i got car sick.
so we settled for TJMaxx, Homegoods & Marshalls.

photo-55 photo-56 check out these huge baskets?! i was trying to show how big they are.
the left is from HG and the two right are TJM.
and the galvanized one was too fun to leave there.
i plan on using them for blankets and pillows… because my kids love to sit down on the couch and throw the pillows on the floor.
and when they stand up they just drop the blanket on the floor.
maybe it will help if there is a PLACE for these things?
i know, i know… get real right?! at least they will be pretty when they are being properly used…by me.
i also got that running skirt. (TJM)

the whale bag is going to be the pool bag this summer. (TJM)
i could NOT believe that swimsuit fit me… i was thrilled. and shocked.
swimsuit shopping is almost always an all day affair.
but you know how you KNOW your own body? i saw that suit and thought… that is my kind of suit.
and it was. (TJM)
and that rug?!! thank you for finding it for me shannan. (HG)
AND Justin’s pb for super cheap. i very much like that. (HG)
during our time together we talked and talked and talked.
we ate at the same restaurant both nights because “why re-invent the wheel?”
and i even got the exact same meal.
i needed a brief get away from my little world.
and it was absolutely wonderful.

on my way home i listened to an audio book.
Love Does: Discover a Secretly Incredible Life in an Ordinary World
YOU GUYS… i love love LOVED it.
seriously.i loved the book A Million Miles in a Thousand Years
i was told Bob Goff is a character that is one of my FAVORITE parts of Donald Miller’s book.
at that point i was officially ALL IN.
i listened and smiled and teared up (happy tears) all the way home.
i enjoyed the way he describes the Jesus he knows.
and how we can find him too.
it’s not a churchy book.
it’s a Jesus book.

i am slow to catch on but each chapter starts with the phrase “i used to think _______ but now i know ______”
i think i finally noticed on chapter 18.
ha.
some of my favorites were:

“i used to think words spoken about us describe who we are, but now i know they shape who we are”

“i used to think you had to be special for God to use you, but now i know you simply need to say yes”

“i used to think i could shape the circumstances around me, but now i know Jesus uses circumstances to shape me”

“i used to think God was good some of the time, now i know He’s good all of the time”

this book really made me think about how do i love people (pretty poorly sometimes)
about what kind of life do i want to live? (adventure over boring? yes please!)
what kind of story am i living?
what does Jesus wants me to be DO-ing?
and remember again how much HE loves me.

Bob Goff… i love you.

afterlight-5 this was my view the last hour of my drive.
no words needed.

guess what?!
i bought the book intending to read it… but then realized i could listen to it on my drive so i bought it again on Audible.com.
so…. i have a copy of the book and i want to GIVE IT AWAY to one of you.
🙂

in the comments tell me something you used to think but now you know differently.
it can be about God… life… parenting… ndship
maybe a little challenging but i can’t wait to read your responses!

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Dreamers - […] *Meg’s giving away a copy of Love Does! You should try to win it. SO GOOD. […]

debbie - I used to think people my age were OLD, but now I know that I may be older, but I am more young-at-heart than I was back then!!

Laura R. - I used to think that good parenting could solve any behavioral issue, now I know that trauma can cause pain that only time, love and the Lord can heal.

Sandy - I used to think I wasn’t smart enough to do hard things.
I now know it is smart to face hard things head on!!

Dana Heaton - I used to think homeschooling families were crazy! But I now homeschool and love it!…. I also used to think that I only wanted one child I now have four and want more! God is good! His plan is best!

Ashley - I used to think that I knew how parents should handle their children until I had my own!! 😉

The lovely one - I used to think I knew what love was, now I know what true love is when I look into the eyes of my babies.

Amber - I used to think not all my gifts could be used for God, but now I know all my gifts were put in me to glorify Him… even the crafty ones!

Southern Gal - I borrowed this book from the library and read it last fall. I loved it, too.

I used to think I had to have it all together all the time, but now I know God loves me no matter what.

Whitney R - I used to think I had to be a better person for God to
use me. But now I think he uses us just as we are, broken, hurt etc.

Abby - I used to think that nonbelievers just didn’t know God. Period. I’ve found that they may know lots about Him, but are just so broken that they can’t cling to anything as TRUTH anymore. But God is bigger, amen?

Kim Z. - I used to think I was too busy and never had any time, but now I know (after having kids) how busy and hectic life really is! A good busy!

Wow! That was so fun to think about what to put in that phrase…I’ve even thought of more! 🙂

Lisa - I used to think God was always angry with me but now I know how deeply he loves me despite all my junk. Glad you had a wknd away. I’m leaving next week to spend 2 days with my sister at a Beth Moore conference. Coming at the perfect time!

Gill - I love this blog and as an atheist I usually just gloss over all the Jesus/god/faith references and I concentrate on the beautiful photos but this post and more so the comments have left me completely alienated. More than that the unified voice of the commenters and the fundamentalist tone makes me anxious and kind of angry. I’m out.

Jennifer - I used to think that it was so important to have my house perfectly clean all the time. Now, I think it’s more important to have a house where we and our guests are comfortable!

Becky Kindel - I used to think that work came first…now I know that family does.

Hannah P - I used to think I could never impact someone’s idea of religion, because I only know “the basics.” So in theological discussions, I keep quiet. Turns out, I was relying on my own knowledge, thinking I was incapable of making a difference, when in reality, I just had to trust that God would give me the right words (which he did!)

Ellen - I used to think I had to be in control of so many things… then I realized that if I release control to God amazing things happen, especially with my kids <3

Valerie Minnich - I used to think that I needed to have grand ambitions & aspirations in order to be “successful”, now I know that what I need to do is my best in each moment as God grants it to me in the place I am now. <3

nancy - I used to think I didn’t matter, that I was not an important person to anyone. Now I know I matter to alot of people, my whole family makes me feel like I matter and that I am important to them.

Ali - I use to think moving sounded exciting but, now I KNOW its a lot of hardwork and exhausting (but, worth it) !!!

robin - I used to think there was really nothing my x-husband could do to make amends for the past, however I was wrong. He has done acts of kindness for me recently and God gave me this word “recompense”. Praise God for healing hearts.

Nancy H - I used to think I was weak and incapable, but after having my husband just walk out and leave our little family to be with another woman, I know that I am so strong.

Vicki - I used to think idle talk (aka, gossip) had its moments of fun. Now I know it hurts everyone, both the gossiper and the gossiped-about.

beth - I used to think I had to try to be perfect, now I know (still learning sometimes) it’s OK to not be and perfection is only Jesus!

grace - i used to think brussel sprouts were gross, but now i can’t have enough of them!! (i eat some every day these days…)

Tanya - I used to think hard roads meant that I was doing something wrong. Now I know that the hard is for the shaping and the growing and the story that will bring glory to the author of it all.

*P.S. I don’t want the book because I have it already and have already passed it on because IT’S THAT GOOD.*

Amber - As a teacher, I used to “know” what it was like to be them. Then, one of “them” stayed with us and told me his family dried off with the shirts they wore and blankets they slept with.

I’ll never “know.”

P.S. Came over from FPFG because she said I needed to add this book to my waiting Amazon cart!

Rita - I used to think that bad things only happened to other people. I now know that anything can happen to anyone, and it’s how much I lean on The Lord during those tough times that’s going to get me through. I’m leaning pretty hard right now.

Mandy - I used to think that raising kids would be simple. All it would take is snuggling, discipline and reading 1400 parenting books so that I would know it all. Now I realize (almost 5 years and 3 boys in) that all it takes is Jesus. Every minute of every day. Thankful for Lamentations 3:22-24

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him.

Melissa - I used to think I knew the RIGHT way to parent, but know I know that great parenting looks different every day.

Sarah - I used to think…but now I don’t.

Jen Smith - i used to think i’d be young forever but now i know that growing old isn’t so bad and it certainly beats the alternative.

Beth Davis - I used to think I understood death but after losing my dad. I know that I don’t need to because God”s got it his.

tara - I used to think I had to be good enough to be loved.
I’m learning that I can be loved the way that I am.

pam - I used to think it might be easier to not love someone than to love them and walk through suffering, messiness and hurt. But now I realize the blessing of loving far outweighs the suffering and loss.

I loved that book. I read it on the plane home from South Africa last year.
🙂

Lelia - I used to think I knew a lot, now I know that I have a lot to learn!

Laura - I used to think that it was about how good I could be or feel or act or speak. Now I know it is all about Him – all He does shows His character and how He feels about me. We are loved.

Jeannine Spivak - I used to think I chose Christ…now I know He chose me, in spite of me! I’m still trying to get my head around such Grace.

K - I used to think God answered prayers in direct ways…clear ways. Now I know that we sometimes have to LOOK for the answers and we will always find them. 🙂 Thank you for offering this giveaway!

Jennifer C. - I used to think that my husband being called into the ministry as a preacher was the worst possible fate I could have been handed, now I know that it was actually God’s calling on my life to be a preacher’s wife.

PAM WINN - I used to think I was teaching children, but now I know I am loving them.

So much has changed in the 19 years I have been teaching. I have changed- married, had children, divorced, remarried, had another child….. I have grown. I have felt hurt and I have known being scared about life and I have loved and I have lost. All of these things made me a better, more informed teacher. Because of the struggles I have had I am more aware of the struggles of my students. Additionally my students have changed over the past 19 years. I know many of them have great lives, but more and more of them do not. They come from homes where parents cannot help or do not want to help them with their schoolwork. Families lose their jobs. Families are poor. Families are homeless. Families are scared and sometimes the last thing on their mind is school or their child. Please remember what I am describing is not all children and families, but I see more and more families like this each year. I will never know all the burdens in the lives of my young students but I pray every day that them knowing I love them and I care for them and I worry about them- I pray that will lift their burdens just a little.

I used to think I was teaching children, but now I know I am loving them.

kas - Hi!
Please don’t add me to the drawing but I wanted to say BOB GOFF is totally AWESOME!! We saw him speak last year at the Global Leadership Summit and completely fell in love with him. His ideas about the do-ing of Jesus’ work has opened so many paths for us in the past year and we’ve been so happy to support Restore International since becoming acquainted with him. Go Bob Go!!

Jenn - I used to think I was pretty selfless and put others first…then I got married and realized I am way more selfish than I realized. I realized I need Gods grace and my husbands forgiveness daily!

Vicki - I used to think that I had to have my life all in order to be used by God, HA!!! If that was the case none of us would ever be ready!

Andrea - I used to think I had to do everything exactly right to raise “good kids,” now I know I just need to love the stuffing out of them, do my best, and God is in charge. (He’s doing really well!)

Nicole Stone - I used to think that I would never have a healthy, loving relationship with my mom, and now I know that God makes all things new and can redeem even the most broken of relationships.

Debra @ MsMoozys Open House - I used to think I was not good enough to help God in his works but now I know that I am and now I just need to make sure I LISTEN when He is talking.

This would be awesome to win and thank you for sharing with us today. 🙂

Sara - you know? I used to think two funny things: one was that God never listened to me and one day I just forget Him. And the other was that my family was broken for a loooooong time because my biological father left us when I was 3… Then my “real” father appeared and I loved him a lot but he died a few years after so I kept thinking our family wasn’t a family… But now I know that we are a family because we love each other like crazy! 🙂 It’s not a normal family (just my mom, my sister and I) but which one is? And I’ve learned God is always hearing us, loving us and keeping us safe in his arms. Me, my family and all the people I love, because I pray for them.

Just wanted to tell you that I’ve been following your lovely blog for quite a long time now and I’ve learned lots and lots of things and not meaning just craft stuff 🙂

Ramey H - I used to think that having kids wouldn’t change our life very much–HA!!

Terri Upton - I used to think everything had to be perfect but now I know it is better to stop and smell the roses and to enjoy the journey.

Becca - Oh I could write a book (except apparently someone already did ha) of all the things I used to think but now I know differently. Mostly, I used to think I had a lot of the answers, and now I’m realizing I’m only just beginning to learn the questions.

jennifer - I used to think there was one, standard, acceptable way to do things. (My dad’s way.) And since I’ve been married for 10 years, my husband, who is exceedingly smart yet gracious, has shown me that there can be multiple ways to do anything. And all of them could be correct and effective.

Trish - I used to think that my mistakes defined me, now I know that God is a God of second chances and wants to use my mistakes for his purpose.

Crazy thing is you are the third person in two days that has been talking about that book…..

Heather - FFG looks like she has a bob cut in the selfie picture. Shannon get a bob!! You look super chic and down right hip!!!

Tobi - I used to think I could keep everything under control. Now I know that’s not my job!

Tami Sickels - I used to think I had to have the perfect, clean house and total organization for me to be able to minister and serve others in my home now I know God uses even the most unorganized and messiest of houses to show people His love. (It’s a good thing I know this because now I have 5 kids.)

Jane - I used to think that the old testament was about people who lived many many years ago, but last night at bible study I learnt that it teaches us that we all fail in the same way, we worship created things and blessings in our lives rather than the creator and source of all blessing. Gosh God has such abundant patience with me!! I would love to read this book, sounds as though it would be good in continuing this process of shifting my mindset in a number of different ways!

PS I don’t even know you but WOW your legs are fabulous!

Carla - I used to think a Jesus-lover looked a certain way. Now I know there is so much beauty in all of us looking so wonderfully different.

Shannon - I used to think that I knew what was best for my life. Now I know God knows best

Lisa - I used to think I could earn God’s favor, but now I know it’s ALL grace! Good news, for sure!

Janna - I used to think that ignorance was bliss…..not I know it’s just that you are uneducated. Believe me – I wish I could go back to blissful ignorance with my eating and health – but when you get knocked on your butt by health problems you don’t get that choice anymore. I wish ppl without health problems would get educated BEFORE they HAD to so they could save their health!!! Whole foods and no grains baby;) Thanks for the chance to win! And wow you do have nice legs! No, I’m not bein creepy:) You have worked hard for them!

Sara - I used to think my children would never have snotty noses, would always be cutely dressed and would never throw tantrums in public, but now I know better and I love them still. And, even though I am not perfect, I know that God still loves me too!

Megan - I used to think that life was a competition against others that I needed to win, now I think that life is a cooperative journey, each of us doing the best we can.

Amy Woods - I used to think I couldn’t do this or that, or be this or that because of the “hand life had dealt me.” Now I’m learning through God I can live above my circumstances. 🙂

elizabeth H - I used to think “i always fell short. the Father was displeased with something i was doing…i could never do ____ good enough.
I can’t be enough.”
Daily, i look at Him & hear that He says “You are righteous. You don’t have to do ____. I’ve redeemed you. I call you MINE. nothing you can do can make me love you more ~ nothing you DON’T do will cause me to love you less.”

**good.good.stuff!**

Heidi Henderson - I use to think that my kids would all grow up and live long, I now know that life takes over and we are not promised that and something can happen to your child to shorten there life and you can do nothing.

debi - I used to think taking care of yourself as a mom was selfish but I know now that you need to for yourself as well as your family. Whatever that feeds your soul whether it be reading, crafting, paddle boarding, alone time, girlfriend time etc.

C - I used to think I had the ability to “just be patient,” and other things when parenting… duh, I NEED the Lord’s help BIG time!

Nicole - I used to think that questioning my faith stemmed from spiritual immaturity, but now I know that my inability to understand every facet of Christianity, yet loving Jesus regardless of my comprehension of dogma, is just how my faith looks…imperfect, just like me.

Linda R. - I used to think parenting was fairly simple and easy. Then I had three kids and now I have no idea what I’m doing. 🙂

Jenn - that there isn’t just one way to parent.

Sue - I used to think “things will slow down tomorrow and I will be able to spend quality time with the Lord then”. Now I know that is a lie. God isn’t wanting the perfect Quiet Time but a relationship, and a conversation that goes on all day, throughout the mess and busyness. He doesn’t want perfection, he just wants me.

Wendy C - I used to believe that I was doing my family a disservice by not being there all the time for them, but now I know that I am a better wife, mom, person when I spend some quality alone time (or getaway weekends with a friend) to recharge. Good for you – love all your purchases. You inspired me to hit my Marshall’s this week. I found so many fun finds and felt recharged after a quiet hour to myself!

Shannon - I used to think taking a Sabbath was something outdated. As my kids are growing older and as a working mom I’m learning everyday that taking a Sabbath is needed not just for me but for our family.

becky j - WOW..this book sounds like a MUST read…I used to think certain things didn’t happen to Jesus girls…like miscarriages, root canals and broken dreams…NOW I know the rain falls on us all..BUT Jesus holds our hands through it and weaves it into something gorgeous at the end!! Thanks Meg..xo

staci torgerson - I used to think I was just a plain, unimportant daughter to my earthly parents. Now I know I’m a daughter of the King and He delights in me.

Maryellen - I used to think having many friends was my goal, but now I know one or two great friends is ideal. Would love to read this book!

Tracy L - I used to think I was too weak, and too scared honestly, to get out there and run, now I know I was so very wrong, I can do it annnnd love it at the same time! Bonus– I’ve never felt better!

Laura Williams - I used to think I knew how to pray. There is no wrong way, right? It wasn’t until my Dad was dying that I figured out I was asking for the wrong things. I changed my way of thinking and my prayers were answered. Deep stuff 🙂

Tiffany Gardner - I used to think homeschooling families were CRAZY. Honestly… I kinda still think that…and this August… We will be a homeschooling family. Seriously… in college, I did my applied speech over the top 10 reasons not to homeschool. So funny of God to lead me to do what I said I would never do. It wasn’t that I wasn’t familiar with the idea.. my husband and his siblings were homeschooled. Honestly… I just didn’t understand it. I felt the Lord leading us to do this when my 10 year old went to pre-k. Every year as my kids have gone on to another grade .. I think.. I know, I know… next year, Lord, next year I will do it. Finally… something sparked in me this year to be brave. Listen… I am SCARED to death. I will have a 5th grade boy, a 3rd grade girl and a 3 year old. SCARY. But … I finally told God.. ok. I am ready to try this. I am so grateful the Lord has been patient with me. I just didn’t want to be at my son’s high school graduation and be thinking I wish I would have tried. I wonder what we missed??? So in August… I will be brave. I will be crazy. I will homeschool my kids.

Shar Y - I used to think if I didn’t say bad things like criticism or slander out loud that it was ok. You know, okay, just to think it but don’t say it. But, guess what? God hears me anyway, thinking those bad thoughts or criticizing or cursing, etc. And, I was literally shocked to the core when I realized how often I do that. So, I take it one day at a time and try to redirect my thoughts to nicer things. And, remember, God is listening…

Shawna - I used to think God was good some of the time and now I know God is good all the time.

Meredith W. - I used to think vegetables were gross. Now I know they’re the yummiest food to eat. 🙂

Kim - I used to think my kids had to be perfect (do things), but now I know they are perfect just the way God made them.

Marjie - I used to think God wouldn’t give me more than I could handle…..Now I know he will give me more than I can handle to ensure I rely on him!

Teri - I used to think I had to be all for everyone, now I know better.

Robin Canter - I used to be very judgmental and I know the Bible says I will be judged by the same measure I judge others. Ouch. I’m a work in progress.

Martha - I use to think life was hard, God made it easier

karen - I use to think I needed to fit into a certain mold – act a certain way, look a certain way, be the busiest – work the longest hours. Then I had a health scare that set me on a different course about 6 months ago. Now I find time for me, make time for friends, have date night with my hubby more – and I am so much happier.

Margie Rowles - I use to think that I knew everything…but now I realize that I learn something new almost every day!

Tina - I used to think that I wasn’t for God if I supported my sister’s gay life style. Loving on my sister makes me for God!!

Christine - I used to think God tolerated me, but now I know God is crazy about me.

Rhonda F - I used to think I was too old or not smart enough to get into nursing school. But now I know neither are true! I am an honor student starting nursing school in January! God is Good!

katie p - I used to think that the Lord kept a list of my wrongs, but I know now that he loves me no matter what I do or don’t do and that there’s no list!

Heather - I used to think I had learned to accept myself in my 20s and become comfortable in my skin….until I became a mom at 38…and the battle of insecurity rolled again…

Jenny - I used to think no one should ever let their children wear costumes out shopping, then I became a mommy and quite regularly we are a mix of pirates, superheros, princesses and cowboys complete with capes, masks, feather boas and tutu’s 🙂

Rebekah - I used to think parenting couldn’t be that hard at all….now, well, all of us moms know the truth. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything!

Jenny B. - Mine is totally not spiritual, or even thought-provoking. It’s just what popped into my head… I used to think I wanted to live in Alaska (I blame the TV show “Northern Exposure”), but now I know I really don’t like cold weather. Nope. I don’t. 🙂

Lisa - I used to think I could keep my world tidy and in control. Now I know there is beauty and hilarity in the chaos and messiness of my life!

april R - Wow! these comments are so inspiring – I love Dara and Gretchen’s.
I used to think that I had all the time in the world…that I would accomplish those dreams “someday”…but now I see that there’s today and I shouldn’t put things off for “someday”
(thanks Meg, really, thanks)

Christy - I used to think my girls would remember every wrong thing I’ve done while parenting themt, now I know/continue to hope that they will see that the decisions I’ve made (no matter how they turned out) were rooted in a fierce love for them.

Sarah Moske - I used to think that I wasnt strong….but now I know I am 🙂

Christy S - I used to think parenting was somewhat easy and then I had kids.

s - I used to think you had to travel and do big,cool things to have a wonderful, meaningful, worthwhile life..and now I know that a life worth living can be one lived right here at home as long as it is filled with love, kindness, giving, hard work and lots and lots of laughter.

Melissa - I used to think I wanted the kids to grow and now I just want time to stop.

Laura - I used to think that people who are really close to God did not make terrible mistakes, now I know that (like David) we are still human.

Jamie - I used to think that guacamole was this weird green stuff but now I know it’s actually awesomely yummy! I have heard great things about this book and it’s on my ‘to read’ list. 🙂

Erin - I used to think I was never going to get the chance to be a mother, now I know God was just waiting for the perfect baby to be placed with me.

Jaime - I used to think guacamole was this weird green stuff but now I know it’s awesomely yummy and my new favorite food! 🙂 I have heard great things about this book! Now, I need to read it.

Mary Elizabeth Brown - I use to THINK that God’s grace was conditional, but now I KNOW God’s grace is given in all conditions.

Tonya Upton - I used to think that God (and others) loved me because of all the things I do for them, now I know they love me in spite of the things I do to them.

Rae - I used to think life would be easy when my kids reached xx age. Now I know it’s just different.

Julie - i used to think that good parenting produced good children. now i know that’s not how it works. humans are sinful, humans make choices, humans reject right teaching, our hearts are bent on doing evil. sad thoughts, but it is truth. also takes a *tiny* bit of pressure off as a parent.

Marla - I used to think I should be in control….now I believe its best that God’s in control

Jill Helman - I used to think my worth came from what others thought of me or what I was doing but now I know that I am worthy because God loves me and created me.

Brenna - I used to think that my past defined me, but now I know that God doesn’t even have a record of those mistakes. What a life-giving blessing.

jennibell - I used to think I could “do it all” (wife, mom, teacher, daughter, sister, aunt, coach, etc.) but now know that it’s impossible and I have to look to Him for His direction in my life. And then DO it well (instead of *everything*).

Amy - I used to think I’d NEVER let my kids watch tv. Then I had kids…and needed to get one or two things DONE in my day. A half hour or hour of Elmo isn’t going to kill them.

Momma Bug - I used to think that wanting to do “big” things for God was a noble aspiration. Now I know that faithfully doing the small insignificant things over and over just because I love Jesus and He wants my friendship every day… is what it’s all about.

Meg, I have so enjoyed your blog over the years and loved your vibrant use of color, your lovely photos, your sincere heart…
Thank you.

Love

Jan - I used to think my house needed to be perfect before inviting people in; now I know that hospitality is really an attitude that is more about the people than the place.

Barbara (WA) - I used to think that my emotions needed to be smooshed and never shared, never. Stiff upper lip stuff. I have found great freedom embracing all my emotions – none of them are wrong. They are human!

Heather F - I used to think that I had to keep changing things about myself to live a better life, but now I believe that I am fine just the way I am. Why change when I’m already so awesome! 🙂

Heather S. - I used to think I had to have all the answers before God could use me. Now I know that all I have to do is make myself available and God will give me the answers I need when I need them.

Seamingly Sarah - I used to think my children wouldn’t see my bad habits (temper) but now I know they are true unrelenting reflections of me and I need to shape up and start reflecting a more patient and loving heart.

Tracey Garcia - What nice legs you have!

Heidi Durant - Thinking differently: talking to s trangers. You know that old rule we were taught as children? ! While yes, I still tell my children NOT to talk to strangers, I myself do talk. I have really gone out of my comfort zone to do so. I don’t consider myself shy, once you get to know me. But now, I jump into conversations with strangers ALL the time. It is so fun. New friends. Awkward looks. And laughs had by all.

tonya - i used to think i’d never allow myself to slack off on my end of my relationship with Jesus, but now i know slacking off has pushed me further away from the most important thing, Jesus…and he’s still there just waiting for me to get my crap together.

btw…you’re totally rockin’ that running skirt, sister!

Jennifer R. - I use to think that the saying was “nip it in the butt”. My BFF (when we met just 7 yrs ago) corrected me. I now know it’s “nip it in the bud”. I am, however, still trying to figure out “buck naked” or “butt naked”! Anyone?

Jenn - I used to think that the days with my babies were long, but now I know that the years were too short. Savor the time with your wee ones!!

Chelsea - I used to think that my kids were the only ones who threw the couch pillows on the floor and left their blankets strewn all over when they were done with them. I’ve just had a light bulb moment…. I’m going to arrange all the pillows beautifully on the floor and see if they notice, maybe they will even pick them up and put them back on the couch. Parenting is just one experiment after another 🙂

Katie - One more thing- could you share the source for your kitchen island pendant lights? They are great! Better yet- please come style my home!

Amy S. - I used to think I had to go to another country to do mission work but I know I can do it here in the states too!

Katie - Love the bathing suit! Just bought the same one at TJ a few weeks ago. I used to think you needed the perfect way to tell people about Jesus and how his loves changes us. Now know it can come out of you in so many ways and you don’t need the perfect words or story. You just need to be yourself and ask God to work though you.

Amber - I used to think God cared for me from lofty heights above, now I know that He cares deeply for me right here. : )

Leslie Leon - I use to think I had to do everything, say yes, and be involved in everything to be a good parent/wife/friend now I know I need to spend time being more intentional and connecting with friends and family.

momoftwo - I used to think I had to do it all myself but now I know that I can lean on God and others.

Shannon - I used to think that how I reacted to life wasn’t my choice, but now that I choose positive attitudes I am so much happier with the life God has given me!

Joy - I used to think that I had to have “it” altogether, but now I know that my imperfections are quirky and beautiful and sharing mine give others freedom to be okay with theirs.

Sheila - I used to think eveyone was looking at me, now I know they don’t even see me.

Sandy - I used to thing going to church on Sunday was the norm now I know that Sabbath, like the 4th Commandment, is on Saturday!

Sara Torbett - I used to think I was weird or out of place for loving art and photography so much. Now I know it’s exactly who God made me to be and I’m proud of that.

Katie Merrill - I used to think life just happened to me, but now I know that I can make life happen.

Laura Oyler - I used to think that Jesus loves other people more than He loves me, now I know that He loves me just as much as everybody else!

Amanda - I used to consume myself with having “good kids”. I read this quote this week: “Don’t let yourself be so concerned with raising a good kid that you forget you already have one”
After reading that I knew it was such a true statement. 🙂
I’ve heard great stories about this book!

Wendy - I used to think if I put a BIG hamper in the bathroom it would matter, but now I know it’s useless.

Kathi - I used to think monsters lived under my bed, but now I know it’s just bunnies 🙂

debbie - I used to think I was a bad person (or wife, or mother), if I had a bad (aka..grumpy) day. Now I know I am human, and God does not love me any less when I have those days.

Ruth Umney - I used to think that I was not good enough, now I know that God has an amazing purpose just for me, and He is working it ALL out in His timing, not mine!!!
I do so love your blog!!! xxx

chrissi - i used to think things would change but now i know that i had to change. made all the difference.

stephanie - I used to think I had all the answers, but now I know only God does.

Cassie Spencer - Money makes you happy. Not true! After my hubby lost his job a few years ago a well paying one and our life was turned upside down. Almost losing our house and having to downsize everything. He is now back to making more than he was before. Going through the tight times made me much more thankful for all we do have and my little family. And to focus on moments and people not things.

Erin - I used to think that my identity is something I had to create. Now I know my identity is found in Christ!

kelly s - I already have the book and LOVED IT beyond words. I laughed OUT LOUD, loud, many many times. I just loved it. And it backs up with I already know to be true. LOVE DOES. It is a VERB. An action word, and I want to love verbally (I made up that word)….I LOVED this book. I want more just like this.
Thanks.
Kelly

Laura - I used to think I needed to follow all of God’s rules, but now I know he loves me and others regardless and he desires a relationship.

layla bb solms - I used to think that “things and stuff” would make me happy, but now I know (and remind myself daily) that only Jesus’ love and grace can do that.

just for fun …

I used to think I liked sweetened, syrupy, lattes, but now I know that the best drink of all is the Café (con) Miel from The Abbey Coffee.

Janice H - I used to think loving on people, volunteering and helping others benefited the people receiving. After a month long mission trip to a kids camp in Albania, now I know that it is far more beneficial for me. What you learn from people who are living totally different from yourself is astonishing and totally enlightening. 🙂

Sarah - I used to think my mom knew everything about being a mother, now (being a mama) I know that she was just really good at hiding her uncertainty!

Jessy - For me, I used to think being a mother wasn’t enough for the kingdom. How was I supposed to be used by God if I’m home all day everyday with my children. I now know without a shadow of doubt that my children are my calling. My four year old and I have many discussions about who Christ is and what he asks of us.

Sabrina - Before I had children, I had all the answers on how to raise them the “right” way. And then I had children… Everything is turned upside down from what I thought was the right way. Each child is so different and there is no one right way for raising them.

Maegan C - I used to think I always needed a plan for life to be successful, now I know I just need faith and a good attitude!

Kelli - I used to think that I was alone and not part of a community until the last 3-4 months that I found a new church which is now my family. I have friends and family as well as a living God who love me beyond words.

Sarah{Handbags*and*Pigtails} - I was raised to believe(“used to think”) that hospitality meant that every square inch of your home HAD TO look magazine perfect before anyone could be invited in. Growing up with that kind of “stress” makes you realize you dont want to be like that when you have your own home. So Ive had to “re-learn” that hospitality is no such thing-its about the other person/people…inviting them in(no matter what the house looks like) and being real with them…and in turn allowing them to be real with you…in your authentic space. I just realized Id really changed my mentality about all this a few weeks ago- we were expecting guests from Virginia(we’re in NY) for a week and they’d emailed a certain time they would arrive. I hadn’t showered or changed(or even put my bra on) all morning bc I was doing last minute things. Well, long story short, they showed up EARLY and there I was in my bathrobe, no bra…and the only thing I could say to them was “well, at least I brushed my teeth! Come on in!” What a humbling moment! If I told my mother that story she’d probably die. But Ive learned to say “oh well! Come on in!”

Stephanie C - I used to think I wasn’t good at ANYTHING. Now I know God is working to show me the gifts he gave me.

mandy - I used to think I’d be a sweet, patient mom, with sweet, obedient kids…then I became a mom 😉

Jennifer P - Sounds like a perfect weekend!

I used to think I had to meet other people’s (and my own, yikes!) expectations, but now I know that God says I am already enough

🙂 I learned this recently and it has CHANGED my LIFE!

Michelle Whitlow - I used to think I couldn’t control how people treat me but now I know it’s my actions & choices in life have a big impact on how I allow others to treat me.

Btw, LOVE that swimsuit!!! I’ve been looking for one like that. I hate swimsuit shopping. Just bought one at Target and it’s going back 🙁

Jennifer B. - Love the baskets and the cute swimsuit! Isn’t it nice to get away AND have a retail therapy trip? I did that with a friend last week, and I felt SOOO great afterward! I loved the “Million Miles” book. This one sounds interesting too. “I used to think life would get easier as you got older but now I know that you’re thrown challenges no matter what age you are!”

martha - I used to think that I was to old (50+) to “start over” but with Jesus in my life I know it’s never too late to change! He’s right here with me…I couldn’t do it without Him!

Lee Johnson - Hmmmmm, that book looks and sounds familiar! Yep! it is in my pile of books to read . . . . I had the privilege of hearing him speak and had to have his book. It will go on the top of the pile. I used to think that Grandmothers were OLD but now that I am one, they aren’t! My necklace that I got at the Craft Weekend says, “Act old later.”

Kristin S - Look at your gorgeous legs!!!!

Love that swimsuit too. Totally adorable yet age-appropriate.

Cathy - I used to think of my self as less, now I think of my self less

Sarah M - I used to think I had to have all my crap together and be supermom in order to have value, I now know having Jesus be my focus makes those other things moot.

Mickie - I loved everything about this post including the baskets and swimsuit! And, the idea of taking a little break from our regular life. I could use one of those too… And I love books like this so here goes: I used to think I would be in control and teach everything to my son. I now know that God is in control and being Jackson’s mom is teaching me way more about myself than I ever thought possible. Sometimes those lessons are hard and as I say “it’s not for sissies” but I now know this is part of God’s way bigger plan for me than I could have ever imagined for myself.

Rachel S - This book sounds great and I’m glad you had so much fun with a friend. I used to think that I would be in those diaper-changing, busy toddler days forever. Now I know that in a blink of an eye, those little toddlers grow up and the first one is soon to graduate. I’m so thankful that God blessed me to be able to stay home with my kids those early years and I’m so thankful for the wonderful grown-up kids they have turned out to be. God bless!

Julie A - God has been telling me lately that He has it all figured out. That I can lean on Him, and trust His timing, even though it’s soooo hard. He’s provided those little bits of encouragement, just when I need them! BTW, I love your running skirt, too. 🙂

Molly B - I used to think my life was hard but now i think with Jesus I can do anything.

Jessica - I used to think that God wouldn’t give me more than I could handle. I even used to say this to people who were facing a trial :/. Now I know that He doesn’t give me more than he can see me through. I totally CAN’T handle it. HE can.

Gina - I used to think the word “s*#t” displeased God, now I know it doesn’t. How silly, right? I don’t know why I thought of that first. Guess it was the funny story my son told me. 😛

Sandra K - This is a funny one:
I used to think that if I ever had a daughter, her hair would always be perfectly styled, neat and tidy and she’d look like she walked out of GapKids everyday…
but now I know that days get busy, hair gets messy and sometimes she wants to express her style and own creativity through her clothes. 🙂

GB Jost - I used to think God waited in heaven watching and waiting for me to screw up. Now I understand he loves me and just wants me to be willing–not perfect.

Amber Treat - I used to think that if something was hard, it meant I shouldn’t do it. Now I know that sometimes doing a hard thing brings out the best in me.

Candice - I used to think that if my life was problem-free I was in God’s favor, if it was problem-ful I was out of God’s favor; now I know that he uses it all for good and my life circumstances will never change how he loves me.

Melissa - Where did you get that suit? LOve it have a similar one from last year but that color is soooo pretty! I also love your running skirt and super cute Shannon

Marlie B - I used to think I was nobody but now I know I am somebody because I am a child of God!

Leslie - I used to think that once my kids were past the baby stage I wouldn’t worry so much, but now I see that the older they get the more things there are you just can’t control. But with Jesus I’m trying to replace worry with prayers and faith. I’m sure this book would be an awesome read.

Alexis K - I used to think it was about making the most money, now I know it’s instead about His gifts that don’t cost a thing. Just love, faith and obedience.

Julie W - I used to think I couldn’t do scary things by myself; like drive over 400 miles to a place I’ve never been, to spend a weekend with a bunch of ladies I’ve never met. But now I know, even though I was nervous, scared to death, and my hands were ice cold and sweaty at the same time, I can…and did…and had the time of my life…with you, Meg, and Kimberlee, and Ashley Ann, and Megan, and a whole bunch of other amazing ladies! I’d do it again in a heartbeat!

Tricia - I used to think I was a pretty good role model for my children, but now I know they behave the way they do because I do the same behaviors…now that I’ve looked in the mirror. I need to do a 180 if I want to see some changes. I need to asap…

Michelle - I used to think being a good parent meant raising perfect children. Now I know that being a good parent means celebrating the perfectly imperfect children that you raise.

Molly - I used to think i had the perfect plan for my life, now i know that god’s plan is way better.

Marcia - I have been looking for baskets JUST LIKE those for our “Florida Room” … as a busy full-time working mama I am wondering if you can tell me where you got them – TJ Maxx or Home Goods … I would love to hit ONE place not both. Thanks so much! 🙂

Tracy - I used to think i could “train” my kids to put their stuff away…and put the pillows back on the couch….and fold the blankets….haha!!

Jenn - All good stuff! I wish we had a Homegoods….one day!

Not that long ago I use to think I had to do everything for my kids, home (keeping it clean) and school (volunteering too much), now I’m not saying I still don’t think that I should from time to time, but I now know that I don’t have to. They will not remember that I volunteered to do the yearbook, or the decorations at the carnival. They will remember that I was there and that doesn’t mean I have to kill myself volunteering for everything. They won’t remember the house wasn’t spotless, they will remember going to the park or getting snow-cones. Its hard and there are many more things that I’m sure I can think of if given the time. But that’s what’s great about getting older and experiencing life. You learn not to think so much and to just know its going to be ok. And I’m ok with that.

Gretchen N. - I used to think that loving & following God meant I had to give up things, but now I know it’s really about everything I gain!

Maureen S - I used to think that 40 was old…now I know when you’re 40 you feel like you’re 30. Age is only a state of mind. I do like that time has given me the advantage of knowing myself better. I dont mind telling people my age…I’ve earned it:)

Toni :O) - I used to think I lived in a safe area but now I know that is untrue since having my home broken into a few months ago. It’s very unsettling, I hope to get that settled feeling back someday.

Flower Patch Farmgirl - I used to think it was possible to eat too many red beet salads. Now I know there is NO LIMIT!

ps- I meant to tell you that I’ve always thought you had the best legs. But that seemed…creepy. But it’s true and your picture reminded me. Bye.

Dara Miller - I used to think that I was not good enough.. now I KNOW that I am beautifully and wonderfully made. Praise GOD!

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