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it was a big week

April 21, 2014

oh my goodness we are tired.
but we are IN the new house!!!

my sons helped craig move every single thing.
this was a practice round a few days before the actual move… putting the fridge in the garage so there was room for the countertop guys to work.
they did a really nice job… and they were very talkative. 🙂
we choose quartz countertops. These are LG brand and the color is Cirrus.
it was the least busy of whites with gray that i liked.
and the least green hues in the gray.

the backsplash is sheets of 2×4 inch subway tile from home depot.
they had the same thing at lowes and menards but HD was the lowest price.

craig worked so hard this last month.
it makes me tired just thinking about how much he has physically done.
he is a hard worker at everything he does.
i think i could be the luckiest girl in the world.
(and it’s his birthday today!)

photo-51
and then it was time to move!
we had no school on friday and so we moved that day.
the girls and i stayed at the old house all day packing up anything that was in each room.
the boys and craig loaded and unloaded.

we were treated to lunch and dinner by friends and family.
it was so nice to not have to think about that in the day at all.
that was awesome.
these muscles got worked out big time all day friday AND saturday.
i am just SO PROUD of these guys.
those boys of mine are strong!

the chickens will be moving later this week… everyone has been asking.
but moving a chicken coop and chickens is not the easiest thing to do.
last family picture at the farm house.
we really will miss it. we loved it out here.

waffle and stanley were totally in the way and being total spazs.
they were just so excited and confused.
🙂

photo-52
this was what i started with….as long as this area was set up then i was all good.
the tile was grouted in white on friday morning as we moved in.
also the doors and drawers were installed as we moved in.

pizza hut for dinner on saturday after another full day of work.
first time ever we did not have left overs.
they were hungry! ha ha ha

we slept in the new house on friday night.
the four kids slept on mattresses in the basement… all together by choice.
they were talking and laughing till midnight.
it was such a fun day for them too.

sunday we met up with craig’s side of the family for Easter brunch after church.
it was so nice to take a break from moving and organizing and WORK to sit and worship at church.
ahhhhhh.
i kept sighing during the service.
in a good way.
loved by jesus. saved by jesus. thankful for jesus. in love with jesus.
happy to be there. happy to be done with the move. happy that my family was all together.
just happy.

and we were all able to find clothes to leave the house!
i wore the same thing i wore last sunday because i knew where it was and i didn’t have to think.

and now this week is all the clean up.
clean up the old house…. clean up the new house… continue to unpack… find places for everything.
painting.
painting.
painting.

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rebecca - I just reread this…I LOVE a front-facing kitchen!

Andrea - So glad to see that the move has gone well!!!! I love unpacking….finding a spot for everything! Have fun putting this new house together! Can’t wait to see more pictures and hear how the chickens move goes!

Katie - Your house looks wonderful! Could you share the source for the pendant lights over the island? They are great!

Karina - I am loving your new house decor choices and will eagerly check back for more detailed info when you have time to update us…I am also curious about the 21 Day Fix and will look into it. Congratulations on the move and Happy Birthday to your husband!

Sara - Meg, I have followed your blog for years and years. I am so happy for your family as you start in this new house! What a fresh start! I look up to you and Craig as you parent your children well. And you look fabulous!! XO

Julie - Hi Meg! Your new place is great ~ love the coffee station. 🙂 I can’t believe it has been a year since Kristen and I were privileged to attend CW. We went to a “Be Crafty” event in Tempe, AZ last month and were FAMOUS at our table because we’d been to CW ~ so fun! 🙂 Hope you are well.

Meredith - Congratulations on so many levels!
Beautiful home;
Strong, healthy, grateful kids;
Awesome husband {happy b’day Craig};
Sustaining faith and
Wow, do you look trim, taut & terrific:)
Looking forward to following your adventures in your new nest. M xo

cyndiloohoo - congratulations on the move and new home. from the pics I can really tell you have lost weight.

Ryan - Oh my…..your family pic at the farm house gave me goose bumps and brought tears to my eyes! Weird, I know, right! 🙂 And YOU my lady look awesome in those little spandex pants. I thought it was one of your older girls at first!! Good job on the 21 day/running thing!!

Rach - All I can think of is how much I loathe painting ceilings. Good job Craig! Cheers to you!

Valerie @ Chateau A La Mode - Oh I so love that new house. Love the way you are decorating it. I know moving was hard but it sure looks like there was some great memory making.

Erin - The new kitchen looks amazing!!! We have the exact same tile in our kitchen, great choice 🙂

Sara - It’s been amazing to see how quickly you guys have renovated the kitchen, painted, removed a wall, and moved!! Whirlwind! And a Craft Weekend thrown in there too! I admire your capacity to work so hard and make so much happen. The Duerksen family gathers no moss! It’s funny to not know you at all yet so enjoy following along with your family. You’re the kind of family that makes the world a better, happier place. Thank you for blogging! Looking forward to the continuing adventures in your new home. 🙂

Karen Gerstenberger - Congratulations, and welcome HOME!

Lisa - Good luck with all the final cleaning and organizing!

Jenny B. - P.S. For later… when you get a chance to post more about the kitchen… Cabinet paint color? Wall color? Is that marble trim at the top of the backsplash, or something made from the same material as the countertop? Again… no rush… as I’m sure you’ll be back with the details LATER. 🙂

april r - congratulations and just very happy for you all! and thanks again for sharing
(i especially appreciated that picture of the big wide open sky <3)

Jenny B. - Oh, I am just so happy for you!!! I am literally sitting here grinning and trying not to tear up because I am just overjoyed for you and your family!!! I’m amazed at your ability to tell your stories so succinctly. You don’t use a whole lot of words, but you really pull me in, and make me feel like I was there. You have a gift! (Well, I think you have lots of gifts, and that’s just one of them!). 🙂 Your blog is always a bright spot in my day/week/month/year. Thank you for taking the time to share!

Brenna - Been praying for your move and am so interested in seeing how you will manage the chicken coop move – I am renting now and will eventually have to move my coop too. Oh and Talby got braces!!! Congratulations on a successful move.

Elissa - Congratulations!

CathyC - Fantastic! so happy for you all! Love that the coffee station was set up so fast, made me laugh.

Jenni - So, I saw your last family pic at the farm house on Instagram. I TOTALLY THOUGHT YOU WERE LAUREN! Now that I’m seeing it on a bigger screen…IT’S YOU! You look amaze balls.

Patti Mullican - It’s silly I guess since I only know you through your blog, but I’ve been thinking about you all as you move into your new home. May it be filled with new blessings and more wonderful memories. Enjoy!

Brittany - Your kitchen looks beautiful!! I love all your choices! Can’t wait to see the rest 🙂 Also, side note…you look amazing! Trim and lean! I can tell you have been working hard.

patti - Love your kitchen and how your whole family works together!!! Are your cabinets HD as well??

Mel - Love your beautiful family pictures! I can’t wait to see how wonderful the new house looks once you are all settled.

Kate - This is off topic – but you look so slim and fit! You go girl!

Rach - Congratulations on your new home, I’m sure it will be a very happy one and it looks fantastic already! 😀

Lisa - I’m impressed! Everything looks great! You guys work fast. 🙂

jill - Your family picture at the end really touched me. I thought of all of the hard work you all did and then how you all paused to gather and worship. I love that. Thank you for sharing!

Alicia @ La Famille - I am so tired just reading this. Moving is such hard work!! But it looks like everything went great! LOVE your new kitchen! Can’t wait to see everything else!

Angela - Annie is SASSY! What a doll!
Congrats on your new home and Happy Birthday to your man! I have a hard-working husband myself, and I know what a blessing it is. Awesome that he is training your boys to be the same.

Stephanie - The kitchen looks fantastic! Did you ever mention what gray paint color you decided on? I have about 50 shades on my kitchen wall right now and still can’t make a decision.

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april craft weekend

April 14, 2014

25b 25r
25q
this month Kimberlee and I had Amy & Jenny for our helpers.
we laughed so much.
these are awesome women… i am so thrilled to get to hang out with great ladies every month! 25w
the swag that comes in for each CW is always amazing.
such generous sponsors we have!
Next Monday i will share all of their links and even discounts to their shops!
25p 25n 25u Craft weekend
this group….they were a unique blend that meshed so well.
i love seeing who God brings together. 25a
we stamped burlap and made them into pillows.
and we made pom poms with all those yummy colors of yarn.
25o
one of our guests has a Popcorn Shop!
she brought some for us to enjoy and OH. MY. WORD!!!
we could not stop.
none of us.
we ate and ate and ate. CRAVE is such a great name for it too!
you can order it online!
and you should. 🙂
25l Kimberlee made lots of new recipes this weekend.
everything was delicious…. seriously… unbelievably good. 25m 25j 25c 25f 25i there was so much treasure to be found on our field trip.
everyone came back with something cool!

25e 25v 25k Jenny taught us how to use a scroll saw and how to make really cute signs.
I mean… REALY cute! 25g 25h 25t
ruffle aprons for days.

all my new friends… squeezing in for roomie photos.

9collageA 5collageA thank you ladies for giving me a beautiful weekend!

if you would like to see more CW posts you can click on the button at the top of the blog.
if you would like to come a Craft Weekend… first read THIS post and then get on the wait list.
i hope i get to meet you someday here.

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Heather - Love that Jenny Girl!! Jelly you got to spend time w/ her creative self!!

Rachel Jeter - Oh my goodness! Looks like a great weekend! I can’t wait for the last weekend in May because I will finally get to meet YOU! 🙂 After years of following your blog and almost 2 years on the wait list for Craft Weekend- Kansas or bust! 🙂 To say that I’m excited is understatement! I can’t wait to meet you Meg!!

Jaime ♥ Raising up Rubies - i just miss you guys. that’s all. bye.

CathyC - Awesome!

tasha roe - we live about 30 minutes from Plano! I am seriously thinking about going to Crave tomorrow!! Ikea is on the way too! ha! 😀

Jen Smith - craft weekend always looks like a seriously awesome time!

I went back and read your last post about going to st. louis and, although i don’t live there, we visited a couple years ago and i had to tell you to go to Pappy’s Smokehouse if you love good barbecue. it was the best barbecue i think i’ve ever eaten. and their sweet potato fries…don’t even get me started! there is always a line and they run out of stuff towards the end of the day so go early.

Gabby - Gosh, Meg! Seeing your gold sparkly shoes in this post confirmed that it was you I saw at Kerri’s barn sale on the 5th. I just wasn’t positive, but if I had been sure it was you, I would have introduced myself and told you how much I enjoy your blog. : )

Michelle Whitlow - Had so much fun & met so many great ladies!!! Thanks for a great weekend…I SO needed it!!!

Corinne - UBER love your hair, Meg!!

Lisa - These weekends look so fun! Maybe one day… 🙂

Heidi - I’m in love with your gray pullover with the lace. Where’s it from? I could wear that every day!

Sarah M - Looks like a blast…hoping my name gets picked one day! 🙂

Andrea - When in the world is Kimberly going to put together a CW recipe book???????

Barbara (WA) - I love how everyone is beautiful, each and every Craft Weekend. I think because they are having such a wonderful time!

Kristin S - Oh, Meg, your CW posts are some of my fave. Close second to “randoms”.

I know you get paid and all, but the time sacrifice you and Kimberlee both make is huge. Thanks for serving these women!

Jenny - I miss those faces! And I keep thinking about that popcorn! I need order some. Thanks for the good times!

kim - i loved seeing all the new stuff you guys did this time at CW! 🙂 i even ordered one of Jenny’s signs ASAP 🙂 Love it!
Kimberlee’s new recipes look delish! this looks like it was a good one!

Amy K. - eeep!!! I’ve been waiting & waiting for this post, so I could see two familiar smiling faces – next best thing to being there myself!

Amy - Looks like a great weekend:). When is kimberlee’s cookbook coming out??

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my friday thoughts…

April 11, 2014

hey peoples.

how are you? how was your week?

i feel like i am not sure what day it is… what time it is… am i awake?

it is getting a little hazy in my brain. moving is kind of a lot of work.

(the neil diamond playing on the radio at the coffee shop is NOT helping)

let’s talk about… the 21Day Fix.

confession: i basically took a week off of exercise (other than some walking) and a few days from the healthy eating.
it’s so hard when you let yourself off the hook even one day.
the next day is SO much easier to make an excuse.
and then the next.
and same can be said about cookies or chips.

but last night i set my phone alarm for 6 AM and put my phone in the bathroom so i HAD to get up to turn it off.
it’s about the only thing that can pull me out of my DEEP sleep.
and i set out my clothes the night before too.

i sleepily did the Dirty 30 and 10 minute abs.
My kids had a rough morning… late night/hormones/hunger/rushing so it was really good i had gotten up and exercised because i wouldn’t have handled it the same had i just woken up to the sound of fighting.

one silly thing that helps me enjoy a smoothie (or two) everyday…Milkshake Straws.
fri5
i buy them at Bed, Bath & Beyond.
but it looks like you can order Milkshake Straws right here on amazon. 🙂
they are big.
i wash them and re-use them if i remember to rinse out my smoothie cup right away.
(it is the little things that change a day isn’t it?)

the 21 Day Fix does not say to do this but i am trying really hard to eliminate wheat from my diet.
It is not easy!
the first reason is craving things i like – duh. (and i am weak!)
and second… wheat is in EVERYTHING!
geesh!

how are you doing… are you on the 21 Day? are you doing your own thing?

i would love to hear about it.

——————————————————————————————————–

let’s talk about… the new house.
🙂

we are getting really close to moving in.
so exciting.
the floors are done and looks like a different house altogether!

the kitchen is halfway in… they brought in the cabinets so the countertop people could make a template.
so by next week it should all be done.
i love it all so far.

fri6
i took these two pictures on the same day.
one in the morning and one in the evening. 🙂

in the picture below….

1. the wall we tried to take out.
we opened it up and found it was full of wires.
blerg.
we considered the options… decided it wasn’t worth the money to move all the wires.
i am still bummed about it.
but it is no biggie… nothing to cry about… not that i did.
(and if i did… no one saw me and you can’t prove it)

2. this is going to be an A M A Z I N G island.
i am super pumped about it.
one big shelf for microwave and mixer, the ninja and the toaster.
all under the counter but easily accessible.
and all the rest are drawers. YES!
i am PRO-DRAWER.

3. new tiles will go around the gas fireplace.
YAY.
and of course the mount is already installed for the tv.
of course it is! everyone always starts with their favorite things.
and that is why i bought a daisy chandelier this week….it’s my “tv mount”

4. the wall we did take out.
just half of it…. lets in so much light just by taking out 5 feet of a half wall?!
so glad we did it.

the girls can’t quite decide how they want their rooms to look.
i am hoping for something like this…
fri1 afterlight-4
the boys don’t really care.
and i have about 79 ideas in my head right now of things i want to start on today.

fri3 fri2
at this point i am ready to be done.
ready to be moved in already. ready to be IN and not have tools and dust everywhere.
but it doesn’t work like that does it?
lots more work to come in the next two weeks.

———————————————————————–

and lastly…

if you live in the st. louis area… i need you to tell me the best places to go as a grown up lady.
no kids. no dudes.
where to eat… where are the best places to thrift and antique…. what is a great hotel… what neighborhood?

i know you girls will hook me up.

———————————————————————–

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natalie@thesweetslife - as far as food goes in STL…
Kaldi’s for coffee
Ted Drewes for frozen custard (you must you must you must!)
Sasha’s Wine Bar or Pastaria for dinner (you really really cannot go wrong with Pastaria!)

Melissa Getts - I’m a little behind on my blog reading, but if you still need ideas for STL – I love the London Tea Room, a whole menu of teas, and I believe they still serve breakfast and lunch in true British style. Also, even more, I love Osage! With exposed brick and huge windows, old wavy glass, I love the atmosphere! They serve a wonderful breakfast and use fresh veggies and herbs, even berries in season grown in their on-property gardens. There is a little shop with gardening-inspired gifts, and an outdoor courtyard with additional tables, as well as plants for sale. Loved the food, loved the atmosphere! Have fun! SO much shopping in that area as well, as others have mentioned!

Ginger king - Meg I am Heidi Claassen aunt she was a teacher for your child. She is pregnant with her 3rd child he has been diagnosed with downs
Heidi has a blog
Heidiclaasen.blogspot.com
I’m sure it would mean a lot to her to hear from you

Caitlyn - I’m about 30 minutes south of Downtown St. Louis, there’s a historic town called Kimmswick. Its adorable, lots of unique shops and restaurants and of course the world famous Blue Owl. I reccomend Dough Depot they have pretzel bread sandwiches.. yum! Gus’s of course is a must, and Ted Drewes. Soulard is a fun neighborhood too. Chesterfield has everything as well! tons of shops, outlet malls, restaurants, pretty much anything.

Bridget - I second the suggestion on Cyrano’s in Webster Groves (http://www.cyranos.com/) for their desserts. It’s decorated in pink! How fun is that? Also, Bailey’s Chocolate Bar in Lafayette Square (http://baileyschocolatebar.com/). The neighborhood has such beautiful, French style homes. And sometimes they have a tour of homes so you can see how they’re decorated inside!

Candice - Wow! You guys work fast. The kitchen is coming together. LOVE the paint chip colors. AND that pink chair. Fun!

Gina - I did the 21 day fix because of you and I am so glad I did. When we started (my husband is doing the food part too), we went gluten free. It was going to be just for the first 2 weeks. It made such a difference that we don’t want to go back. Psychologically, reading “Wheat Belly” helped because it made me think wheat is evil. Imagine “The Water Boy’s” mama saying “It’s the Devil!” I love cookies, cake and pie but haven’t had any since starting 21 day fix 4 weeks ago. It is absolutely amazing how the cravings are just gone. I keep some dark chocolate in my purse so that when I want a little something it hits the spot.

P.S. In the first 3 weeks, I didn’t lose any weight but I think it is because I had no muscles. I lost 6″ but no weight. I am getting stronger every day and hope by the end of 6 weeks some weight will fall off too.

*****ALMOST FORGOT TO TELL YOU!!!!!!!! Target has packs of Bubba straws. You can get a pack of 4 or 5 for $5. I love that Bubba cup mostly because of the rubber straw — plus it’s cute.

Michelle Deckert Richmond - Too bad about that kitchen wall….think of it as a great location for a “gallery wall”. The place is looking awesome. Bright and open. Can’t wait to see your special style transform it.

Julie Gugel - Zia’s on the hill. Then across the street is St. Louis bakery.

Jessica Kiehn - You have a God-given gift to take something from boring to beautiful. LOVE the house- I like the way you think!!

kim - I did the 21 day fix with Marta..same time as you because of you ;-)…stopped wheat and my beloved diet pepsi…hit and miss on the exercise. I so agree that once you excuse yourself it is much easier to keep excusing yourself..going to get back on track with exercise.
Would love to see the finished house 🙂 thinking of remodeling our kitchen and love the island storage.

Kim

Wendy Cordia - St. Louis is so much fun (but I’m biased because I live here). I agree with the Chase Park Plaza hotel recommendation. Another fun hotel is The Cheshire Inn (English themed with pubs and restaurants) near Forest Park (Art Museum, History Museum, Muny Outdoor Theatre). For dining – try the Boat House in Forest Park or Crown Candy (delicious shakes) for casual daytime dining. For evening, try Jimmie’s on the Park (in Demun area) and on your way to/from there walk to Shasha’s Wine Bar or Demun Oyster Bar (my favorite, and I don’t like oysters!). Demun Oyster Bar has a fun menu of vintage cocktails served in unique vintage glassware (think Mad Men). Plus, to die for Sweet Potato chips. Be sure to get the Beignets there for dessert! Antique shop ideas are: The Green Shag Market (on Manchester) and TFA (The Future Antiques store – all 70s finds) on Chippewa (near the famous Ted Drewes frozen custard). Have so much fun!!! Can’t wait to hear what you do while in the Lou.

Cathy Barnes - OK.. so here’s a place you CAN NOT miss when visiting STL…

T. F. A. – The Future Antiques. This store features all kinds of cool stuff from the 50’s 60’s, and 70’s. Everything from decor, to kitchenware, linens to furniture. ALL in mint condition and organized thoughtfully. It’s a TOTAL blast from the past. You will LOVE it!

.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAom9NsLRbU

They are not in the location mentioned on the video. They now are at: 6514 Chippewa in beautiful South St. Louis! While you are there, go around the corner to Legrand’s Market and get an awesome deli sandwich, then walk south to Ted Drewes for some legendary St. Louis frozen yogurt! It’s a great outing for sure!

I live 4 blks. from all of this, so if you need a guide for the day… I’m in!

Check out T.F.A. The Future Antiques on Facebook.

ALSO… they’re some great shops on Manchester Ave. in mid-county.

This one,http://www.missouriantiquemalls.com/warson-woods-antique-gallery/ is a bit pricey… but there are two across the street that are really fun!

Another area: Big Bend Ave. near Manchester – Treasure Aisles and another shop immediately next door. You an kill hours in those two.

Hope this helps!

kim cole - Moonrise Hotel in The Loop – boutique hotel with mid century modern vibe, lots of space related zchotkes, an awesome view of the city from their roof top bar, and close to locally owned specialty stores-some of my favs are Ziezo, Phoenix Rising, and Craft Alliance. On Grand So. Grand check out Upcycle Exchange where you purchase post-consumer art and craft supplies at pay-as-you-wish pricing. Close by is Tower Grove Park, a Victorian era walking park with picnic gazebos, ruins then walk to the world class MO Botanical Gardens – bring your camera!

Heather Henricks - Love the new house!! Your style is perfecto! I did the 21 day fix in February too (I met your friend Jill in my group with Marta!) The containers made it easy, didn’t it?? My youngest daughter thought that she should use the containers for her AG doll :). I’m still doing the DVDs in conjunction with the gym. Its fun!! Not too hard . I can’t wait to see the rest of your new house. Its going to be a gem!! Thanks for sharing!

Elizabeth - I’m impatiently waiting for the 21 Day Fix to arrive. I preordered last month and now they are saying late April. I’ve only read great things about it so I can’t wait to get started.

Your house is looking great. I remember doing all that when we bought our house 9 years ago. Now, it’s time for us to go back and redo some areas and I’m learning it’s so much harder with kids 🙂

Mrs. H - Oh what fun paint names!

Lisa Vinograd - They also have those big straws (in a color pallet that is way more you) at ikea! aqua, yellow, red, pink!! So fun!

Jill - I have been doing the 21 day fix since February – well, sort of. I did the first 21 days perfectly – no wheat, no dairy, exercised etc…felt great. Then we went on spring break and I did pretty good – worked out a lot, ate ‘pretty good’ but since returning it’s been terrible. All sorts of momma responsibilities and work have gotten in the way of working out and my eating has been ok- I need to re-commit. Thanks for the push and the reality check.
Your 40’s house looks great btw.
xo~Jill

Heather G - I am so glad you post about 21 day fix. I have my kit ordered and am just waiting on it to arrive.

Barbara - Hi, Meg,

Love how your house is coming along! I am so happy for your family and know many great memories will be made there.

The other readers gave you some great ideas for your visit to St. Louis but I’ll throw this one in if you are serious shoppers. In a western St. Louis suburb, Chesterfield, they just added two new outlet malls – Premium and Taubman. You may want to do something more restful than that but thought I’d throw that out there.

I hope you have a fun girl getaway when you’re here! You’ll sure deserve the break from all your moving activities.

Easter blessings,

Barbara
St. Louis

Meg - St. Louisan here too. Best places to stay are the Moonrise Hotel and Chase Park Plaza. Definitely check out Treasure Aisles on Big Bend Road. And, thee are neat Antique stores all over Cherokee Street. The Mud House is great over there for breakfast or lunch. Get a pretzel at Gus’s Pretzels that way too. If I were doing a me only trip in the STL, I’d also hit up RISE coffee house and Choquette French Bakery. And, visit the Botanical Gardens (not far from RISE and Choquette). Love our city. Feel free to email with questions. Have lived in St. Louis city all my life and have tons of city recommendations!

Kori - Funshine and Freckles??? I would use those colors just so I could tell people the names!! Love. Them.

Flower Patch Farmgirl - The daisy chandy.
LOVE.
Especially next to that B&W pillow.
You’re the Godfather of colour. You know that, right?
Okay fine, GodMOTHER.
Also, I accidentally spelled “colour” the British way.
Am I secretly fancy???

Lyn - The mud house is a great coffee shop breakfast place & there looked to be several fun little shops right around that area. I’m not from there but had breakfast at the mud house last time I was there on a recommendation & I was not disappointed!

andrea - I’m no help with St. Louis….sorry Your kitchen…Oh my word, I can’t wait to see more. Wheat….I’m with you! It is in EVERYTHING….and it is sooooo difficult. Hang in there…. yes, I am reading Wheat belly….are you?

Cassidy - I’m really thinking about doing the 21 Day Fix. It sounds like such a great program. I’m actually on a gluten free diet for medical reasons but YES wheat is in everything. There are tons of substitutes though so it definitely gets easier! 😀

The house looks beautiful.

Bethany - Hi Meg!!
I came to craft weekend in June of 2012 when i was newly pregnant with my twins!! They are 16 months old now and I still love checking in on you everyday! 🙂 I live in University City in St. Louis and I would say you can’t go wrong with staying at the Chase Park Plaza in the Central West End. There are amazing restaurants you can walk to, the area is fun & alive and the hotel is great..beautiful hotel pool and restaurants and even a small movie theater..it’s an old, renovated hotel. Beautiful!
For antiquing you would have to venture out the of the Central West End a bit but not too far, there are some along Manchester road & Big Bend that are only 10-15 minutes away from the hotel driving. Also I know there are some great places to shop antiques downtown in the “grove” area although I have not been to any yet. That is also 10 minutes away from the Chase.
Old town St. Charles is really quant and historical as well, although I can’t give any recs on hotels in that area, I haven’t been in awhile 🙂
Have a great time!

Maria - Here’s a couple ideas – Cyranos for bread pudding and Quintessentials for a little antiquing, only open the first seven days of the month. Downtown Kirkwood has a bunch of fun little shops, Moonbeans, Found, Christopher’s, the bug store and Down by the Station. Enjoy your time in my little neck of the woods.

Caroline - There is a restaurant on Manchester near treasure aisles antique mall (stated above) that is called home wine kitchen. It is cute, small and delicious.

Also! TFA (the future antiques) is a place you’ll love in St. Louis City (near ted Drewes!) http://tfa50s.com

I hope you enjoy your stay!

Emily - I lived in St Louis for about 7 years and moved about 7 years ago. I highly recommend Treasures Aisles Antique Mall. (2317 S Big Bend Rd)
I lived in University City, which I loved, really old beautiful houses, great restaurants and shopping! I haven’t stayed here myself but there’s a newish hotel called Moonrise right in an area called the Loop.
My absolutely favorite restaurant is called “Modesto” in an area called the Hill. If you like Spanish tapas, you’ll love it.
Enjoy!

kimberly oyler - girl that kitchen has some seriously gorgeous light going on!

Lucy - I love the pasta house they even have one in the airport

Michelle from Australia - Today is my last day of my USA trip. I fly out of San Francisco in a few hours to Los Angeles. And then the 14-1/2 hour ‘hop’ home to Brisbane, Australia.

It has been a marvellous few weeks in San Fran, Upstate New York and Seattle but it’s time to go home to hug my children and get back to our crazy version of ‘normal’ life.

My concern? That my husband and children have had WAY too much fun in my absence and that Mum being home again won’t be as exciting for them as it will for me. Please God they will have missed me….at least a little 🙂

Lisa - Ohhhh….I have so many ideas of where you should go, eat and stay in our fair city! I think you should stay at the Chase Park Plaza in the Central West End. It is a wonderful hotel and has an in-house spa where you can get your nails done and then go sit by their beautiful pool with a cocktail! It is a very walkable area with tons of restaurants, bars and cafes, plus right across the street from Forest Park – so gorgeous and fun in the spring! Also, I believe there are many thrift & antique stores in the vicinity – Tower Grove Park area. When are you coming?? It would be so fun to show you around. 🙂

Elena - Hi! About St.Louis… I live in Italy, but I’m from St.Louis… I can Suggest a restaurant… Go to Paul Manno’s.. It’s in Chesterfield and its the best. Trust me and you’ll feel like a lady! (Just forget the 21 day FIX thing for a day!)

Debbie - Or….downtown Old St. Charles. Lots of antique shops, great little restaurants…super fun shopping 🙂

Debbie - Frontenac Hilton. Across the street from upscale mall (Pottery Barn Teen, William Sonoma, Saks, Neiman, Sur La Table), restaurants across the street, half mile from Galleria mall and shops (Crate & Barrel, World Market, Trader Joe’s, Maggiano’s, Urban Outfitters …), ten minutes from downtown StL. A really fun store is Gringo Jones on Shaw Ave. Crazy wild stuff 🙂 And it’s next to the Botanical Gardens which is a must-see when in the Lou. Have fun!

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random

April 3, 2014

hey… how about more random?!

i tried this flat iron tutorial and it worked!

suddenly my straight straight hair has some volume!
and that girl has TONS of hair ideas that i will be checking out…. because i have had short for a long time and feel a little clueless about doing my long hair again. i had really long hair when annie was born. 9 years ago i said to craig “i think i should cut my hair because i don’t know what to do with it anymore!” and he said “well… you need to do something.”
poor poor craig.
i KNOW for a fact he does not remember that. or meant it the way i heard it.

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speaking that…. i saw this “story” on someone’s Facebook this morning.

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i am loving these sheets at The Land of Nod.

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Not that you asked at all…. but i am LOVING for this breakfast every single day!

oatmeal, handful of raisins, handful of unsweetened coconut, some honey and a little almond milk.

EVERY morning.

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i tried making this this week too….

and i liked it.
it isn’t like it’s delicious…. but it’s healthy for me so i will drink.

🙂

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Easy-Spinach-Artichoke-Quiche-Cups-3
someone should make these and feed them to me.

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kimberlee just gave me this Uber bar.
OH MY GOODNESS!!!
photo-49
i inhaled it.
it is insanely good.
i need a case of these…. now.

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Kerry - Megan, I know you love your coffee! Me too! And I cam completely addicted to this: 2 teaspoons coconut oil, 1 t butter, some stevia (or sweetener of choice) and blend in ninja with coffee!! YUMM!! Sometimes I put in protein powder if not in mood to eat or a splash of vanilla! I have not used creamer in months! Let me know if you try it!

melissa - awhile ago Hobby Lobby had fabric that was mustard with small white polka dots – totally snatched some up and made pillow shams for my bed. maybe they still have that fabric?

Emilie - They have those Lara bars at costco (do you have a costco?)they are so yummy. keep trying that coconut oil in your coffee, it will get better!

Sephanie C - Our poor DHs. They mean so well! I have the best guy in the entire world. Seriously. I got the last one of him! But I have to laugh every time I think about what he said about my thighs when we were just months into our marriage: “I love your thighs. They are so soft! Like….pillows”. LOL! He swears it was a good thing–womanly, soft skin, etc. And I was in GREAT shape at that point.

Coconut macaroons are my fave. I’ll have to try those!

Mags - I can’t believe I’ve never thought of throwing coconut shreds into my oatmeal! I eat oatmeal every single day, usually with walnuts & raisins. Sometimes dried fruit….except coconut!

Guess what I’m having in my oatmeal on Monday morning?
Thanks for showing me the should-have-been obvious!

Mags in Kansas

april r - I read the link too – HA! my poor poor dh James…

and I’m glad I’m not the only one who eats the same thing for breakfast every day and is totally content with that. Oatmeal, coffee, water 🙂 happy

gotta go clean my room now. gonna listen to Andy Stanley’s Ask it while I make things nice for the weekend (and for my poor dh…boy, I need to lighten up!)

Laura - i admit to never clicking on links on blog posts…however, i have been home sick with nothing but free time, so…..i clicked on that story on fb…
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

pure genius.

when Nick and I were dating, I was in the bathroom putting on make up and he came in and said “that’s how I like you to look.”
WHAT????????

He swears he just meant he liked the way I did my make up.
Of course in my own 24 year old mind I thought “He thinks I am HIDEOUS without make up!!!”

our men.
so simple.
so clueless.
but so awesome.

miss you!

Jessica - are you still doing 21 Day Fix? I am on Day 4 and wondering what you thought about it? Results? Meal ideas?

mrsodendaal - I make mini baseless quiches like that for my husband for breakfast, i use 1 1/2- 2 eggs per muffin cup, fill the cups with chopped bacon( or what leftover meat there is in the fridge ) and sliced bell peppers and chesse and pour the eggs on sprinkle with salt , pepper and paprika n bake till the egg is cooked through, He likes how easy they are to grab and heat for a quick breakfast or take with him for an easy lunch. do be sure to grease the muffin pan well or use silicone ones

Jenny B. - I’ve watched a few of the hair girl’s videos before, and they are kind-of mesmerizing. 🙂 She has SUCH great hair. For me, it’s kind-of like watching people do aerobics. I could get up and attempt to do all the stuff they’re doing, but I would look like a major dork. If that analogy didn’t make sense, I’m basically saying that my hair just will not behave like hers no matter what I do. 🙂

My husband has been making some little crustless quiche dishes lately, and they are SO good. He makes them in the little corningware dishes (sort-of like ramekins, but closer to cereal bowl size). Anyway, my favorite is egg, sausage, cheese, and spinach. It’s great with fruit salad (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and bananas). He also did one with egg (obviously), chicken and asparagus. He used rotisserie chicken from Walmart. It was really good. We had it for dinner. Yum. Now I’m hungry. 🙂

Carrie - I just ran to my kitchen with that drink idea but as I reached into my k-cup jar I decided to try it with green tea. You’re right, it isn’t delicious but it’s not bad. I jazzed it up with a splash of almond milk and a couple shakes of cinnamon. I’d make it again!

Laura Oyler - I eat WAY too many lara uber bars!! You should definitely try the Dark Chocolate Turtle and Dark Chocolate Peanut! They are my favs. Roasted Nut Roll is good too 🙂 I tried the sticky bun one once…..yucky.

Dee - I really love that flavor of Lara bar! And those sheets….LOVE!

Kristin S - And Kate (hair tutorial) is a wonderful person in real life. It’s funny to see this video from so long ago. “So long ago” in blog world, that is.

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random again.

April 1, 2014

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TP8RB7UZHKI

have you seen this kid?
oh that mama… she must be so tired every night.
pretty funny little guy.

last week i made this for dinner.

Crockpot Sweet Potato Chicken Chili.
my husband LOVED it. i did too. and two of my kids were brave and tried it.
and they said almost convincingly “i like it.”
i don’t believe them but they tried it and ate it too.
things are coming along… last year there is no way they would have tried it.

i have been listening to sermons again.
i REALLY enjoyed this series by Andy Stanley called Just Ask It.

i love how he can speak to anyone… whether you have been a christian a long time, brand new or if you don’t believe in jesus at all.
he is relatable.
he makes you think.
i think he’s cool.
if you have time driving in your car… out for a run or at the gym.. or just cooking dinner in your kitchen… throw this sermon series on and you will like it. 😉

c97e1d1e34abfae0ba10bc7fd7eb420c
ummm…. how rad is that shower???
i don’t think i would have the guts to do it but i do love it.
it looks fancy.
032b97f97c0586a3797b7517216a8b43
doesn’t this look so crazy good?!!!
i found the picture on pinterest with a dumb tumbler link to no where.
BUT i am going to imagine that there is a waffle truck somewhere in the world that makes stuffed waffle sandwiches.
doesn’t that sound dreamy?
i would love for someone to drive a waffle truck in to my driveway and bring me one.

and lastly….

i would like to sit and make this.
because it looks so relaxing.
i know i probably wouldn’t DO anything with these painted leaves… but creating is sometimes just for the sake of being creative.
not about WHAT you make… or what you will do with it.
it’s sitting down… stopping the busy around you… and creating.
in that moment.
i hope i can sometime soon-ish.

what is going on with you today?
are you making crafty projects? taking a nap? cooking dinner? reading a book?
please share. 🙂

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Grace - Long time reader, first time commenter, but I couldn’t resist. I’m glad you are enjoying Andy’s series. You’ll have to listen to the current one he is doing. Been on staff at North Point for 9 years now, and he still nails it. Every. Time. Anyways, if you are interested in any of the other sermons, mom resources, or small group content, let me know! I’d be happy to send some your way. Thanks for sharing your tidbits of life with us. Encouraged often.

phyllis - You’ve got me on a internet-wide waffle hunt!
I think I found yours at B.Street Waffles in San Francisco:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-TplqI76oCk annnd, apparently,
you can have them sent to your door 😀

http://bstreetwaffles.com/product-category/waffles/

Candice McLean - YUM! The stuffed waffles looks delicious. Those painted leaves look dynamite… a great idea for a kiddo (and parent) fun project. Thanks for sharing!

tricia - My girls make the leaf casts every year in art class. i have a whole collection at this point. and no, i never really know where to put them. but i love them so. 🙂

Jane - At 50 I have gone back to college! Never finished and I am so lucky I can now. I have to finish a paper and a book. Learning is amazing..

Will try the recipe!! Thanks for sharing and have a wonderful day!

amy - That little guy’s antics may be cute now, but that mama is unknowingly teaching her kiddo how to argue, bargain and be in control. I wanted to find that little guy a naughty stool – and fast!

April R - i like random 🙂
and waffles
and fancy bathrooms
and crafting for creativities sake
And I listened to Andy Stanley on the way to my Aunt’s house today. Title was “Follow” – specifically “Follow Wear” – really really good. I was planning on listening to his sermon “Nick and Joe Save Easter” again soon – if you haven’t checked that one out it’s really great as well. I’ll have to check out “Ask It”
Thanks for encouraging others to listen to good teaching and to be crafty and find all kinds of random things to enjoy in life

Elizabeth - I made the chili for dinner tonight and my family loved it. Thank you so much for sharing healthy recipes. It’s always good to have new recipes.

Cindy - The boy needs a few pow-pows! He would drive me insane.

Sara - Oh my have you never head waffles and ice cream!?! Our county fair has them every year! So worth the calories just once a year! 🙂

Stephanie C - Love these posts!
I am…..
trying to finish my last classes before earning my bachelor’s degree
finishing up lunch for the kids
looking up homeschooling curriculum for the next school year (we start over again in the summer when it’s too hot in FL to do anything else)
Missing my husband who is away for a month who also caught shingles in MD and cannot fly home even though he can’t work
Trying to figure out how to not go crazy with my seven kids and I in this house indefinitely waiting on dad to come home…someday. So thankful for FL’s early springs so I can see lots of life in the garden already.

Cara Kuester - I have a question about your 21 day fix challenge. I feel like although I don’t know you I can relate completely with your health journey. I have four kids at home-a picky eater husband and I just want to enjoy foods but lose about 15 pounds. I exercise regularly but can’t seem to stay on a health eating plan. Can you give any advice or encouragement. Thanks! I appreciate your honesty and openness to share your story and life with all us strangers.

Krystle - Sitting in my favorite leather chair checking in on your blog, dreaming about renovating my kitchen someday, and avoiding the laundry pile on the floor next to me.

Beth Ann - Megan, you have in part help to inspire me. For about 5 years I have exercised regularly – 3-5 times a week, but decided to get serious about it and the nutrition part. I joined a local ‘9 week challenge’ place to kick it up a few exercise notches and to get nutrition guidance. I am only 1 week in, but it feels good. I thought I would share my favorite snack/meal: http://iowagirleats.com/2012/07/09/no-heat-required-greek-dip-platter/

No fun things planned today, although it is early out for my kids from school. I would like to think of something fun to do with them after I get off work and they get out of school…..

Ari @ Ari's Menu - So glad you enjoyed the chili! Also, you could totally make your own stuffed waffles and then you get to put whatever you want in them like…NUTELLA! 🙂

Tiffany Gardner - OKC has awesome stuffed waffles. Waffle Champion used to be a food truck and now… they have a restaurant! Next time you are in OKC… stop by.. it is awesome!

Michelle from Australia - I’m in Upstate New York today. About to get on a plane to fly to Seattle.

Nicole - Had to comment about the waffles, as they brought back a wonderful memory. Whenever my brother and I would spend the night at my Poppy’s (Grandpa’s) house, he would make us waffle sandwiches as a treat. Two waffles with strawberry ice cream for the filling. YUMMMM… so good!

Rachel - So lets see…. yesterday I re-roofed the back yard awning in preparation for a “rain storm” that lasted all of 1 hour and was in the middle of the night. Today after helping sort 5000 items of clothing for our annual MOMS Club clothing swap benefiting the Mother To Mother Fund charity, I thought it would be a good idea to hang a new gutter where the previous owners of our home had decided never needed a gutter (they were wrong) in preparation for the next rain storm. And now I sit here waiting for this next supposed “storm” and wondering if maybe I should have just played dragons with the kids instead. After all, its LA. It never rains here. Only the ground shakes here.

Sandra - Love your ‘Random’ posts!
I’m on spring break enjoying Florida sunshine with my family. It’s been delightful. 🙂

Kristin S - That kid is going to be a famous attorney someday.

Jfryer - http://www.foodcartsportland.com/2007/10/23/flavour-spot/

Flavour Spot-Check out their menu 🙂

We were just introduced to one of these food carts in Portland, OR. So fun and yummy!

tasha roe - that chili looks divine!
cleaning and organizing after an ikea and target run.
our pastor, robert morris at Gateway http://www.gatewaypeople.com will knock your socks off! Texas has some awesome churches!!

Carrie - Have you tried waffatopia?

http://waffatopia.com

I am not an affiliate for them, we just live in their area and they are yummy waffles.

My two girls go back and forth with trying new foods. My youngest will eat literally all day and then when she sees meat on her plate she just can not take it. She is not super into new items lately which was a problem with my oldest a few months ago, they just can not get on the same page!! Luckily as far as veggie eaters go, I lucked out. They both get giddy over salads, one will eat ANY veggie and the other prefers most veggies raw which is fine.

Our Lent study is Adam Hamilton’s The Way. I like it and my oldest is doing the children’s version in her Sunday School class. It is nice to be doing the same thing.

Linda - we are on spring break! kids are home and i’m painting my bedroom this week!!! Love your random posts!

Julie - Right now I am putting off doing the vacuuming by reading my fave blogs. I have been to the bank and sorted out our mortgage, and I am hoping to play with some fabrics in my sewing room later today.

Enjoy your day.

Lisa - It’s snowing today (I think it’s a big fat April fool’s joke from God! ha!) and I had a ton of errands to do. Hate having to run errands in slushy snow. But I did exercise and am now home so that’s good. Hoping to take a nap this afternoon after school pick ups! Enjoy your day!

laura oyler - oh those waffle sandwiches…..can I have nutella on mine??

kathleen grace - Thank you for the link. I LOVE Andy Stanley, the man is a super genius:>) I’m listening to it right now as I type!

Necole@seriouslysassymama - I have a kid home sick today, so we went shopping, and I bought a pretty necklace. Taco soup is in the crock pot, and I am watching a movie while folding laundry. I started reading Me Before You, and I am already awaiting a gut wrenching ending. I have already cried twice. You should really listen to some pod casts from Matt Chandler at The Village Church here in Texas. He is awesome.

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undefeated.

March 30, 2014

scott loves basketball.
it’s his thing. all the way. it’s what he does everyday.
it is his passion. so…. being a part of an undefeated team was pretty much the best thing in his life so far.
🙂
this is during warm-ups of his Sub-State championship game. bball1
here is a very focused group of soon-to-be sub state champions before their game.
i said “can i get a picture of you guys?” thinking they would all sit up, squeeze in & smile.
but they are boys. not girls. duh. this is what boys do.
at least they smiled!

the student section cracked us up all season long with their choices of outfits and signs.
as far as i know… the boys are wearing old school uniforms from the 90s (or 80’s?).scott for 3.scott’s cheering section for Sub-State.basketball games are really fun for the siblings too.
all their friends are there, running around and being crazy.
annie always comes home super sweaty from scott’s games from all the excitement.

and then they went onto STATE!
they won their first game, then their second and then it was the Championship.
SO EXCITING!
we sat in the second row for the second and third games.
i loved being that close to the action.all the little kids were really into the game too… so cute isn’t it? bball5 final score of the state championship game.

it was a super close game the whole time…. made it very intense to watch.

and then they WON!
the entire season undefeated. WOW.

please enjoy a bunch of blurry photos of H A P P Y basketball players.i never got a photo of our side’s crowd…. it was all full up to the red seats on our side.they raised the trophy and then they were given medals for first place.
and JUST as MY SON was getting his medal… this lady walked right in front of me.
lovely shot i got of her armpit.
blerg.
oh yeah… THE GIRLS TEAM WON STATE TOO!!!
there is seriously great basketball in our town! bball3 scott hears all about his dad’s basketball “career” every where he goes… but i have to at least mention that his dad’s team won the High School State Championship (that i was a cheerleader for…) in this gym AND his team also won the Jr. College National Championship in this gym exactly 20 years ago.
It is a very special place to all of us.
scott just made it more so.all five of scott’s grandparents made it to his game. bball4
beaming.
every single one of them.
and all the parents too.

they did a great job on a season of full on hard work!

FAMILY SELFIE with our state champion!!! it was such a fun season.
i loved every game i was able to attend.
i am so proud of the whole team… but mostly of scotty because he is mine. 🙂

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Carrie Lea - AHH! Congratulations to Scott! This made me all emotional, reminded me of my brother’s senior football season, they were undefeated too, and won state. Good times, great memories!

I didn’t realize you lived in Hesston either! I knew you were in middle KS, just wasn’t sure where. My papaw grew up in Chase and my granny (his mama) lived in Lyons until she passed. We made that drive so many times! (I grew up in SE KS, Frontenac).

Amber - WOW! Congratulations! Super awesome- UNDEFEATED!!!!!

Jenna - This made me a little teary! Sooo cool. Congrats to Scott … He will cherish your photos too!

Kathi - That last family selfie says it all! I remember going to basketball games at NIU with my mom way back in the day when the basketball uniforms had those really short shorts! Now days it looks like the boys are wearing skirts:)There needs to be a happy medium.

Amy - SO RAD!! Makes me miss high school sports…kinda. I love that they play with so much heart. And undefeated. Awesome. Great way to end it for the seniors.

Lisa - That is so exciting! Congratulations to Scott and the team!

Valerie @ Chateau a la Mode - I got teared up reading your post. Love family stuff. Tugs at my heartstrings even when they aren’t mine. Love that Scott’s team won. Love that Lauren was there with all of you. Love that all those grandparents are still alive and able to attend the games…what a huge blessing. Love that the little kids are there supporting. And PS girlfirend….you looked skinny 😉

Jen - What a great memory for your family, and I LOVE your family selfie! Please, tell me how you get such great action shots! My son is just starting out in basketball (he’s 8) and for the life of me, I cannot get a shot that is not blurry! I would love to figure it out before he goes to high school 🙂

Jenn - YAY!

Lora - 🙂

Jenni - It has been so exciting as a follower to see his team make it this far!! As a former basketball player myself (so hilarious to my family now that I played something so sweaty) it brings back amazing memories. These are family memories you’ll have forever. It’ll come up at the Thanksgiving table until you are 90…remember that time we were state champions? Anyhoo…thanks so much for sharing such special parts of your family journey with us.

Tobi - Small world: I started following your blog before I realized where your kids went to school – my alma mater. Then, I saw their mascot on a T-shirt or something and it was easy to figure out – not many schools can boast farm machinery as their mascot. I love your blog because I love your blog, but it’s fun to celebrate a little Swather pride vicariously through you, too! Congrats!

P.S. I played bball 94-98. I’m pretty sure I recognize a few of the fans’ jerseys. Nothing makes you feel old like seeing your old uniforms being worn as “throw back” costumes by high schoolers! But I have pictures of my girlfriends and I in Swather throw backs that we were thrilled to find at a thrift store in Newton – I think they were from the 70s! Some things never change… (Like the HHS Singers dresses, amiright?) 🙂

kim - this is SO fun, meg! my hs went to states when i was a sophomore and i STILL remember it. it was so exciting.
i imagine its just infinitely more exciting being the proud mom of one of the stars. 🙂 i love all of this! 🙂

Gina - Awesomeness! You look fabulous. I’ve been doing Marta’s 21 day fix too and love it. Thanks for your inspiration to change.

Kristi Rediske - That is so exciting-there is nothing in this world than watching your own kids doing what they love and watching all the enjoyment in it. All the hard work to get to this place and all the family support, I love seeing it, thanks for sharing and posting, love all the pictures. I am a grandmother now, miss having my kids in those activities, but the little grandkiddos are starting now, so fun. I did notice in the picture how great you are looking, you looked great before but you look so healthy and like you are beaming!

Jen - How exciting for your whole family! I really like the family selfie. 🙂

Laurie M. - How exciting. This must be at the sports arena in Hutch? Did your husband play for the Blue Dragons? I’ve been away for almost 20 yrs but I remember those years being exciting ones for KU and HCC fans.

Cassandra - Congrats Scott & the team!! Being that my husband & I are both from a small town & he played college ball & coached small town high school basketball I enjoy this a lot. Nothing quite like high school basketball 🙂

Jenny B. - Ope, nevermind! I looked it up on Wikipedia. 🙂 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swather

Jenny B. - This is SO terrific! What a cool story about the gym too! I have to ask… what are “swathers?”

Tiffany - Oh my, I’m not a basketball person, but I loved reading that post! How exciting for Scott, his team, your family and your town!!

amy jupin - armpit lady…RUDE!
all of the other pictures are so fun.
and i loved the instagram updates too!
what a year they all had!

Sally - Megan,
That was awesome!! I love looking at pictures of the win! What an amazing season… Thanks for posting this!
Sal

Suzanne - My husband was an Indiana State Basketball Champion long before I knew him, and your post helped me to understand what it was like “back in the day”. We New Englanders (where I grew up) are just not as b-ball crazy as you Midwesterners! 😉 Congrats to Scott! So exciting!!

miss lynn - this post made me super happy!
weepy, even!
what a great memory making moment.
just so happy for you all.

Kristin S - The armpit shot… oh no!!!

The family selfie… awesome.

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where do i begin?

March 28, 2014

let’s see…. Scott’s team WON the STATE 3A Boys Basketball Tournament.
his team was undefeated the entire season.
that is so fantastic. i am still just so proud of them all.
i will write a whole post about that because it deserves it and i have loads of photos.

i am still on the 21Day Fix… 45 days later.
i am loving it.
STILL.
the meal plan – lifestyle change is so great!
i sound like a dork i am sure but i am SO happy with the way i feel and what i am eating.
🙂
the workouts are challenging but not impossible.
i was thinking about how i have tried many dvd workout and seriously dislike them.
Jillian? no thank you.
Tony – P90X? nope.
this one though is just hard enough and then just short enough.
and very little jumping.
i dislike jumping very much. (or i should say my bladder dislikes me jumping)
and i am loving the Shakeology.
it has been such a nice option to have when i just don’t want to eat any more meat or veggies.

and let’s talk about the new house.
oh my goodness.
we are SO EXCITED about it.
40A
the kids have been great helpers (at least for awhile… they are still kids of course)
annie painted the inside of the cabinets and i think she is a better painter than i am.
40e
i ended up getting 8 different paint samples of grays.
i ended up choosing the third one on the top.
i surprised myself! it was the most gray that was light with less green or brown.
Seashell Gray by Valspar.
it’s a teensy bit blue on the wall but i like it.

40B
talby and sean removed wallpaper and loaded carpet to the garage.
for real! talby was really good at peeling off wallpaper!
we put the carpet on craigslist and someone bought it.
i love craigslist (except for any weirdos and gross stuff).
i sat here several hours and painted that banister.
then we took out the kitchen.
yep.
we sold our existing kitchen and are getting a white one.
they carefully took it all apart piece by piece and will be a perfect kitchen for the new owners.
that makes me really happy.
40c
we took out a wall to open it up a little more and allow more light in the house.
and by WE took it out i mean our contractor took it out.
we are doing the work like painting or demo… not the other stuff.
and by WE i mean mostly craig and then sometimes i stop by and drop off things like lights or tile or toilet paper.
ha ha ha

40d
poor scott was gone on a ski trip during all this work.
i bet he is really disappointed he missed it.
he did get to pull staples out of the floor for quite awhile one afternoon.
KIDS ROCK!
that is the now empty kitchen. i taped where the island will be going.
isn’t it fancy? 😉
the tile backsplash is gone now too and the floors have been sanded and stained darker as of this afternoon.

SO… yeah… we have been busy.
all good things!
all FUN things!

im sleepy.
gotta get up to get my workout in before the three ball tournaments begin.
yes.. 3 different kids… 3 different towns… 3 different tournaments.
should make for a high coffee intake kind of day.

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Erin - did I miss a post about a new house????? either way, I”m excited to see it complete!!

erin - I can’t wait to see what you do! My home is 13yrs old and I love it but I LOVE the charm and character of a home like your Craft House. I am hoping to get some ideas from you of creating that charm in a “new” home. I am sure whatever you do will be fabulous!

Andrea - Congrats to Scott and his team!!!! So GREAT! I’ve been hoping for pics of the new place! Can’t wait to see the new white kitchen!

Lisa - Congratulations to Hesston! I saw in the paper that both your teams won State and was so excited for your family. And fun things going on at your new house. The changes are definitely making it more your home. Hope the reno continues to go well – am excited to see it in it’s “more final” form (’cause houses are never really “done”, right?).

Jenni - SUPER GREAT idea to sell your carpet and kitchen to someone who will love it so you can get something you love!

Chantel - I am so happy to see all of the trim painted a pretty white! I know that people may say otherwise, but something about wood trim makes rooms feel smaller and dirty to me. The white just seems to open it all up and make it look so crisp and pretty!

Sydney - I’m tired just reading about your days! Congratulations and take care. Fabulous house!

kimberly oyler - you are so fast! can’t wait to see it.
missed you this weekend.

Laura - MY annie is gonna love this post! gotta show her. She is obsessed with HGTV…love it or list it…rehab addict..the property brothers…she is great fun to bring to a furniture store! She will truly enjoy seeing your house transformation! Wish I could send you a Starbucks while you work….or a bowl of kale chips 🙂

Michelle B. - Wow! Congrats on everything! Wow! What a week or two or three, I’d be on the floor!
Hang in there and enjoy the ride:)

Jill - Oh, wow! That is a whole lot of work going on! I am glad to see that kids grow up to be good helpers. That gives me hope. 😉 Can’t wait to see more of the house. I’ve missed your posts!

Kristin S - I love that you took apart and sold the kitchen cabinets. So so smart! Too often people just tear out perfectly good stuff and toss it. I’m sure someone will love yours!

I’m trying to choose a bathroom color right now and have 15 swatches taped to the wall. I need to just go get samples made. PAINTING it on the wall makes all the difference.

april R - thanks for sharing! happy busy post!

Mindy - COngratulations on the State Championship! When our daughter was a senior cheerleader our football team won the state championship and it was just SO exciting! I love that you sold your carpet and cabinets instead of just trashing them like they often do on TV (even if smashing something with a big hammer might be a little bit fun…). Can’t wait to follow along and see all the changes you do to make it just perfect for your family. Thanks for letting us peek inside : )

jz - more of these posts!!!
love, love, love reno projects. how exciting for you all.

Library Momma - Wow! Where I have I been, I must have totally missed the post about a new house!?! Congrat’s!

Maureen - Awesome house…congrats! I’m happy to hear you like the 21 day fix…I’m about to start the 21 day reset and I’m scaaaaared!!

tere - The house is looking great. Enjoying the view of your progress.

Tracy - WOW!!! I can’t wait to see the end result! Your kids….such awesome helpers! I am very very impressed!

Michelle - I have been wondering how Scott’s team did. I assumed they had lost since you hadn’t posted anything. I am so happy for they won! I am excited to watch your new house transformation. Lots of good going on in your life-awesome!

Lee Ann - Love it all! Renovation pictures just make me giddy. Can’t wait to see what you have in store. Thanks for blogging again 🙂

Jenny B. - OH, Meg!!! I am so so so happy for your family! You guys are jut not afraid of anything! 🙂 It is already starting to look more “Duerksen-ey.” I love it! I have been looking at so many houses lately, and just can’t find one I like that’s “me.” We haven’t even put our house on the market yet, and I have been a little bit scared that we would sell it and then have nowhere to live because I hate all the houses! You just gave me a huge amount of hope and a little bit of courage. 🙂 🙂 🙂

Barbara (WA) - Cute photo of your hubby ! And you know what I think is awesome? You don’t have to move in and then begin all the mess. That is a blessing.

Barbara (WA) - Cute photo of your hubby ! And you know what I this is awesome? You don’t have to move in and then begin all the mess. That is a blessing.

Alicia @ La Famille - GIIIIIRRRRRL!!!! I am SO oddly excited for you!!! Oddly, because, well, I don’t know you really. But I KNOW that you’ve probably been dying to get in your own space and rip something up, paint it, and make it YOURS! I am feeling the SAME way. I am using lots of capital letters, I know this. Sorry. But I’m like seriously STOKED right now for ya! Think of me while your slappin’ paint on those beige walls…cross your fingers I’ll be doing the same thing before 2015! Thanks!

BTW, are you using oil based paint for the cabinets and banisters? I’ve always heard it sticks better, but I just wondered.

Whitney - So exciting!! I love the house and can’t wait to see more!! And you are really inspiring me with your exercise/healthy eating updates 🙂

Breanna - What is the workout you are enjoying so much? I, too, dislike jumping! 😉
Thanks!

cornelia krahn - Love what you’re doing to the house!

Jenn - Seriously exciting stuff going on! I can’t wait to see everything finished and the in between stuff too. We have a busy weekend as well. Lots of yard work and a sleep over for a birthday girl (yeesh!) Happy Saturday!

Tiffany - Wow Meg! I took a break from Facebook and Instagram for Lent and that means I’ve been slacking on reading blogs too. Congrats on the new house! It looks amazing… So big and open! I love doing your own work on a house too. In excited for you and look forward to watching the transformation. Miss you!

elma - Oh what fun!! All the kids helping out!! I can not wait to see it all done!! It will be amazing!!!

Amy Lynne - It’s going to be amazing! It is so nice to have big kids that can help…we’ve been putting ours to work too!

Becky - I can’t wait to see the finished project! It’s going to look so great!

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