well… she graduated. we are VERY proud of her. the ceremony was outdoors and the sky was so dark… even lightening in the distance. it was nice to not be SO HOT but the weather was very iffy and made me nervous. as soon as it ended the entire stadium emptied almost immediately. it was raining shortly after.
so we did not get photos of her afterward with friends or with her tassel,etc. but we got this one really quick before the ceremony. she got a new dress and looked so pretty!
our party almost didn't happen because of the weather. there was even a tornado 30 minutes away! i said "well… it's not a TRUE Kansas party without a tornado watch"
she requested rainbow cake. i hadn't made one in a few years…. remember when i first made it? way back before they were EVERYWHERE. BEFORE martha stewart. granted martha's was very professional looking and perfect. but mine is filled with a mama's love. 🙂 perfection is not the goal.
it was so fun to make it again.
we kept the snacks and drink very simple. and credit to my boys… they helped me big time preparing the food. they rocked yesterday! it was "Duerksen Team Effort" for sure all week long. that was a huge blessing we kept it simple since it POURED hard rain just before the party. anything elaborate we would have done would've been ruined.
every party should have a baby. it should be a rule. so many of craig's family came by to wish lauren good luck in college and give her hugs. one great thing about big milestones like graduations or weddings is seeing the family you don't see as often.
lauren with my mom and lauren with craig's mom.
it was so fun to have my friends show up to love on me as well as lauren. high school graduation is big deal for the kids but also a BIG DEAL for the parents too! and they snuck off and were cleaning up in my kitchen and doing dishes when i wasn't looking. grown up friends are the best!
although… i prefer babies at parties that are not wearing K-State onesies. he is so cute that i made an exception. i was so busy that i never even got to hold this guy! lauren took over as baby holder for this party.
family friends that we have had since i was 8 years old came to celebrate. (my dad did not get the memo about the black shirt…)
i LOVE that they came. that is love ya know? showing up for your people. taking the time. it is meaningful. it makes me teary.
craig was face timing with his sister during the party. 🙂 isn't that fun? she got a little tour of the party and said hello. 2013 is pretty awesome.
i took an after photo this morning since it was too crazy yesterday. our new little patio that we put in and all the pots of flowers make this place even happier. it's so peaceful out there. my chippy painted metal benches got new cushions. (home depot online) i used all old pots, buckets and planters i already had to plant flowers inside. the bunting is the same as what i sell in my shop…not weather proof but who cares. it holds up just fine.
great party.
i think lauren felt loved. and that was the most important part of yesterday for me.
and now i am going to go sit on that yellow bench. 🙂
Lynn -Congratulations and many blessings to you and your family. Your daughter Lauren has such a God blessed sweet spirit. Kudos to you as parents.
TAB-What a lovely party, lovely family and lovely grad. She’s beautiful.
Heidi -Beautiful post all-around. Our family recently drove 8 hours round trip (with two small kids) to attend a family graduation and we were so glad we did!
Rhonda Quaney-She is such a beauty. I can just feel her gentleness from here. Had to pray for your sweet girl. And every party should definitely have a baby. Your graduation party was complete with love, darling-ness, ….and the baby. Thanks for sharing it all.
Kat -I got all teary seeing Lauren so grown up, so I can only imagine how you feel.
What a gorgeous girl.
You have inspired me with your potted colour everywhere. So many beautiful flowers and I adore the pots.
Simple but oh so effective. One of those things that I often think I must do but rarely get around to.
We need some pops of colour on our deck as it is autumn and soon to be winter here in Aus.
It looked like a beautiful, colourful party, full of love.
Whitney-Love your patio, I want those benches!
Second- I cannot believe how grown up Lauren is! Gorgeous girl! I wish she let you tell us more about her life… so happy for you all, the party looked wonderful. Best wishes for Lauren in the future!
Angie -Congrats to Lauren! What a huge moment in all your lives
The party looked amazing. Your rainbow cake turned out just perfect
Wishing Lauren a future full of blessings 🙂
Bree-Congratulations to your daughter and to you all! Prayers for her transition into this new season of life. On another note-new pictures for the shop- yellow daisy picture, flowers with the green chair, and the fabulous yellow chick in the Barbie car! Love it! Happy and blessed week to you.
Barbara-Congratulations HS so many memories made in those short four years, love the patio all of it!
Kayla-Lauren, you are beautiful. You look so happy in your pictures! Congratulations on your graduation. Thanks for letting us get a glimpse of your life….we don’t see you enough on your mom’s blog. Can’t wait to see what the future holds for you!
Rach-I never knew until I became a parent how emotional all of our children’s milestones are on us as the parents. Our eldest is just finishing her first year in pre-school next week (which I am sure seems like so long ago for you after watching your eldest just graduate from high-school) and I find myself filled with heartache at the passing of such a milestone in her life. There will be so many more of these end of the school year events in her life and with each I will shed a tear as I watch her grow and thrive and get one step closer to leaving our home to become her own person and start her own life. Congratulations Meg on raising a wonderful young woman. May she only continue to thrive and grow outside the shelter of your heart and home.
elisa-I love the pic with your daughter surrounded with older women on the porch. We all need older women to look up too and help shape us.
Flower Patch Farmgirl-She did it!!!!! I remember my HS grad and party like it was YESTERDAY. Weird??
Your party was awesome. You looked so pretty. Lauren, too.
I’m glad your people showed up for you. 🙂
Hope you all felt way loved.
And I was going to tell you that I’m probably going to steal your bunting idea but I figured it was waterproof. Since it’s not, I’m extra-on it!
Tracy -Congratulations to Lauren and your whole family! Next year we will be celebrating my oldest’s high school graduation. I can’t believe it! Where has the time gone??
Where has Lauren decided to go to school? I’m in KC and went to KU. My husband went to Missouri. My son is leaning toward Mizzou 🙁 I feel the same way about K-State as you do!!
BTW I love your blog!
chrissi -congrats to lauren. what a wonderful circle of family and friends that came to show their love for such a pretty girl. (congrats to mom and dad too for getting through a graduation day/party.)
Lisa -Such a big deal having a child graduate high school! Congratulations to both of you!
Lori Austin -Congrats to Lauren (btw, she is so beautiful!).
Looks like a wonderful celebration with family.
You bright, fun patio is fantastic.
Container flowers turned out beautiful as well.
Rachel Reeves-It looked special and sweet, Meg.
A day that she won’t soon forget.
susan -Congratulations to Lauren! Love to read about FAMILY gatherings. Memories
to keep forever.
Meg, you have a beautiful family. Blessed by your writing.
Carol S. -It all looks wonderful. Congrats to you and your family. Good things are coming next! Freshman college son just home now and we are enjoying a “new and improved” version of him. After a year of independence, he seems engaged and appreciates of home and our family. Yay! Gotta plant more large buckets of flowers and get some festive bunting…fantastic inspiration pics. Awesome patio.
Tiffany-This makes me happy. I’m so glad you have such fantastic family and friends around you. What a blessing. (And your place looks SUPER cute!) (AND, Martha has nothing on you.)
Amy -I just love everything about you. (As much as I can know from reading your blog for the last four+ years) Except the fact that you don’t love K-State. Oh well. No one is perfect. 🙂
Just kidding.
Congratulations!! The party looks amazing! Your family is beautiful!
Dawn Gross -Congratulations! That’s a big milestone.
Your house looks super cute – patio is lovely.
Glad you all are safe & sound.
Dawn
dmg314
Mac -Congratulations to Lauren and your family on her graduation. Your rainbow cake which I saw on the Poppytalk blog a couple of years ago is what inspired me to start following your blog. It certainly is a great symbol for your happy, optimistic but always realistic blog which I continue to enjoy every morning once my 4 children are off to school.
misty-congratulations lauren!!! I have been following your blog since july of 2008 & it doesn’t seem possible that your lauren is graduating!
love your seating area & those striped cushions. what a fun party. I alway associate a rainbow cake with you meg! not martha! i think martha must have ppl reading your blog to find out what’s cool 😉
stay safe from this crazy weather! we have been taking cover & praying.
elma -What a wonderful party!! Congratulations to Lauren may the Lord be with her and Bless her!!
The Domestic Fringe-Congrats to your daughter! Looks like a fabulous party. Love the cake.
~FringeGirl
vicki-You, my darling, can make anywhere feel like a home. What a lovely way to go through life. Your daughter is breathtaking. Congratulations family. And friends. And family friends. I firmly believe it takes a village….congratulations village…what a lovely woman you have all raised. Happy summer to you and your dear family. Good luck young lady on what lies ahead.
Pat -congratulations to Lauren on her big day! I must say, that yard looked like the perfect place for a party. I’m a little jealous, wished that was my happy patio!! You guys did an amazing job!
Alicia @ La Famille-congrats to your little girl!!! and your pictures are so happy! glad the weather held up for you. 🙂
Kimberlee Jost-Beautiful.
I am happy that Lauren feels loved, and that you do, too.
Georgia-Love the photos, lauren looks so grown up!
Good luck to her, college next?
I dont know how it works in the USA, as she would still be in 6th form, or college in the uk.. confusing! 🙂 x
Cindy in WA -Congrats to Lauren!!! My oldest is graduating in a few weeks too! Is she going to a local college or far away?
jerusalem-ok, now I am weepy too! I have a yellow glider like yours-it was my great-grandmothers and came here all the way from Mississippi. I love it and I love your little patio area.
Chantelle-Congrats to you all. Lauren is a beautiful girl! PS: love the cake!
Susan-Congratulations to your pretty daughter, Lauren. She will treasure this moment forever. Congratulations to you and your husband. These moments are bittersweet. However, she will still need you both and she will seek your counsel in the days and years to come. Then, one day, you will discover that not only do you love her but you like her! Those are precious moments also. From a mom who has already traveled that road, it seems that you did a GOOD JOB!
lisa currie-gurney-Congratulations to you and Craig.
You’ve done it.
God is good.
So good.
Hugs From My Heart
Katey-Congratulations to the Whole Family!!! My son graduated last year and I will have another one next year. It goes by way too fast!! It’s tough. Tough on everyone. Glad you had a nice party and loving memories of the day.
Terrie G-Congrats to Lauren & You & Craig!! You are so right…it is a big deal for the parents too!
I worried about all of the graduations going on with our crazy weather yesterday!
Glad that you were able to celebrate & all were safe.
LOVED the rainbow cake! And your home was decorated beautifully.
Lauren is growing up into quite a beautiful young lady!
And that baby!! I must say, I had to make sure I was reading your blog
when I saw the K-State onsie..but I thought it was the cutest outfit EVER!! Wink, Wink!!
Hope your week is relaxing!! 🙂
I’m off to buy flowers…well, maybe after this storm passes!
Can you believe I haven’t even purchased one yet this year!
Jennifer -So fun, a day she will remember forever!
sally -Awww, everything was beautiful…Lauren, you , family, flowers, just everything!! 🙂 I love having family get togethers like this at my home over a restaurant or other place any day!! 🙂
Ana -Congrats Lauren!!! Best Wishes for her in this brand new fase of her life. This is awesome. Congrats for you too Meg!! Beautiful party, flowers, cake and FAMILY.
we have had a FULL week with more excitement still to come.
life skills being taught….
waffle was naughty and completely dorky as usual. he got on the couch while i was still home! how is he smart enough to know not to get on when craig is home and that i won't do anything? it's crazy. he slept with his leg up in the air for a long time.
the kids tried to dress up the chickens with american girl doll clothes. but realized chickens don't have arms to make it work. it was funny to try though.
one of these days those chicks will be gone & we will know that they learned how to hot wire Barbie's car…
i like having lunch with my kids. i wish i had done it with my older kids. i didn't know that was a thing that people did. your kids would love it if you showed up too. (with no other siblings… just you… and fast food)
campfires are pretty much the best thing ever. i have tried my best to keep all s'more ingredients stocked all all times at our house.
mother's day was a very nice day. i try very hard to keep expectations VERY low and that helps to keep the day flowing well. i was treated to homemade cards by the little girls…. and cashed in that free coffee immediately.
after church i went in my bedroom and shut the door and relaxed while my family made the entire lunch. what a nice treat to come out to a completely set table AND food.
then i went straight back in my room while they cleaned it up.
best mother's day i have had in many years.
gardening this year in pots only….this is a huge relief to me. the thought of gardening was LOOMING over me and i wasn't excited about it. but this is perfect!
lauren is done with high school. forever. it's so crazy how fast that passed! we are so proud that she made it through with excellent grades and can't wait to see her future unfold.
her graduation is sunday afternoon. it's been an emotional week….
this is what happens on a daily basis here. if we don't do the dishes every 18-24 hours… it looks like this. NO JOKE. we even ate on paper plates that day!
i sported pigtails today. after a 3 week break…. i went out for a run with my friends this morning.
it was short & sweet but felt so good to remember that i did still know how to run. :)
as i drank my second cup of coffee i looked down and realized i was a rainbow of colors.
so… we have a very busy weekend filled with parties to attend & to give, basketball, shopping, cleaning, rainbow cake making, graduation cermony and grandparents coming.
s -Love the kitchen sink pic…I keep up with the dishes but not so much the clutter and piles…sigh
misty-meg, you have to read this blog post http://lullabylubbock.blogspot.com/2013/04/rainbows.html
Kristen loves a rainbow as much as you 🙂 She is another fave blogger of mine & I messaged her about your blog too. I think you’ll love her sweet post
Rachel S -I discovered your blog a few weeks ago, and I have to tell you I’m addicted. I love how you show your real life, (with real messes in kitchens), the Scriptures, life with kids, the crafts (oh how I’d LOVE to be able to come to a craft weekend!!), the photos, etc. I have 3 kids and my oldest will graduate next year. It’s already hard on me, so I look forward to hearing how you make it through the change in seasons. So thank you for sharing your life with us! 🙂 Have a happy day!
miranda -Love your post today I laughed at those crazy chicks~~ and congrats on everything!!!!
Whitney-Oh my goodness, how is she old enough to graduate! They are growing up (too quickly) before our very eyes! Congratulations Lauren! Excited to see what the next step for her is!
mary -Love that you showed your dishes. my three kids are under five and this is how my kitchen looks after 24 hours of no doing dishes. Refreshing to see real life with kids. I used to panic when there would be a knock on the door when the kitchen looked like this, I am learning more and more that this is real life and it is good to share real life with people. Thanks for being real it helps me continue to be authentic too.
Victoria -Congratulations on the graduate! I know you guys must be proud.
Loving the littles dressing the chickens up in clothes!
Mindy-Oh, those chicken pictures make my heart happy – and the verse from the message makes it happier yet!
Connie -Congratulations to your daughter!! Thanks for the honest picture of your kitchen….nice to know I’m not alone!
Kari-congrats to lauren! that is great…
glad to see mine is not the only kitchen that looks like that 🙂 my oldest is playing 60 baseball games this year – youngest playing also – add in all the other end of the year stuff with a dance recital in there too and it’s been CRAZY! have a great weekend!
Vera-My three year old boy (who happened to be naked at the time) saw the chickens in the car and said “MOMMY! Get my clothes on! I want to go to that family’s house!” 🙂
colleen -Such a great post… I love the part about keeping expectations low on mother’s day so you can enjoy it. Congrats to your oldest graduating from high school.. how wonderful that she let you announce it on the blog… 12 years of school done.. not a small achievement for her or for you.
Love your spirit as well as your ability to “roll” with whatever life gives you!
Colleen
Barb -Hi Meg, could you please tell me what translation of the Bible you have? Thanks for the beautiful post! Barb
Tiffany-I love that you and your family love those chickens so much! I’m so glad you had a nice Mother’s Day too. Congratulations to Lauren! What a beautiful young woman (must take after her mama!).
Hubby is gone on a 4-wheeling weekend, so I’ve got the single parent gig going on. I hope to plant our flowers tomorrow, and hit up the Children’s Museum Sunday. Not nearly as exciting as your weekend, but I love my family time!
I hope you enjoy yours this weekend too!
Kori -Animal teeth always crack me up!
I had lunch with my son weekly if not a couple times a week when he was younger and loved it…it was a great way (better than volunteering in class, I think) to meet more of his friends and see what *really* goes on at lunch – both with the kids and the playground staff. He loved when I got there to stay and hated when I tried to make it a ‘going out’ lunch…he wanted to eat and then be able to run off to play, not be stuck with me in a car!!
Hope you have time to catch your breath in the coming days…
🙂
Michelle from Australia -My Dad has shingles 🙁 My daughter who has been vaccinated against chicken pox got them this week. Blisters, itchiness and one upset girl who couldn’t go to school. My son goes into hospital next Monday for surgery. We asked him what he wanted for a treat dinner the night before his operation. He said SMORES. We had them at Yosemite NP last year. So I went out and got ingredients as close to SMORES as you could find in Australia. And we are all ready for SMORES tonight and tomorrow. Here’s hoping we get through next week with God’s help and grace.
Tiffany-My son just turned 17, i am mentally wigging out about graduation next year. Dogs are smart! Waffle had got your #. Please photograph the Chicken Run, hilarious. Its so hard not to vent with your girls, but God is right there is a dofference between venting and back-biting, sigggh. How did none of your kids get your eyes? They are striking! Enjoy your weekend, im off to have another malibu-bu. TGIF.
Jennifer-Love all your pictures…and that Waffle….he is a hoot! 🙂
Sara Torbett-What a lovely post! The chicken pictures and Waffle’s close-up made me laugh :). Congrats to Lauren! I imagine it’s a bittersweet time for you…..I hope all your graduation festivities are lovely (I’d be bawling like a baby…..I’m tearing up at the thought even and I still have two tiny babies! Oh dear)
Your flowers are gorgeous…and who has time for massive flowerbeds when there are crafts to make and meals to cook? We don’t-we use flower pots too. 🙂 This weekend we’re getting some family pics made..wish me luck (two babies under two)
Kerry @ Made For Real-That looks like our dog. Exactly! Love the potted plants and love having an older set and younger set of kids as well : )
Sarah{Handbags*N*Pigtails}-WOW, Congratulations Lauren! Seriously where does the time go?! My oldest(9) is at a two day sleepover and Im getting ready to take my baby girl(ahem…7) to gymnastics. I remember the days of crying in the church nursery thinking “I’m NEVER gonna sit in another adult service ever again…I’ll be here FOREVER!!!” I blinked and those days are gone. But yet theres so much great stuff to look forward to also.
Have a wonderful weekend! Keep the tissues close by.
Amy-I try to eat with my boys at least once a month at school. Of course, little sister is usually with me. But they love that. One likes to go off campus, one likes to have it brought to him and eat in the cafeteria. Hilarious. But it’s always fun. Of course, despite saying I’d shoot for once a month, I think this second semester I did it twice. And that includes this week. {ouch} By the way, love that pic of Lauren. She’s beautiful!!!
Hanny Norton-van der Valk -congratulations to Lauren, well done. Here in the UK it is still quite cold and I.ve just put the heating on to warm it up a bit. Also still having a lot of rain. We were hoping to go sailing tomorrow, but the winds will be too strong, so I probably will do a bit of gardening. I hope your weather is a lot better. Have a lovely time Sunday, you must be so proud of your daughter.
amy jupin-i’m totally tripping that lauren is graduating.
waffle is a dork and i love him.
annie looks like she’s in middle school and i want it all to stop.
the growing, the maturing, the time slipping by so quickly.
love you meg.
sally -Awww, your daughter is so beautiful!! Congrats to her and so happy we got to see her. 😉 I’m sure you are proud! I just read depressing news in the local newspaper about the economy and I came here and now I am smiling and Happy!! That is why I LOVE your blog…I leave happy!! 🙂
Shelly Massey-My happy moment this week was when the canvas of your wet watercolors photo arrived here! HAPPY DAY! I smile every time I walk by it. Thank you!
Janelle -I adore your messy kitchen picture. Wish more people would share those 😉
Heather Simnitt -My eye caught “basketball.” Basketball? In May? Really? It’s all baseball and soccer around here now. And recitals – oh the recitals! Last week piano, this week ballet. After that it’s all planning for vacay. It’s T-11 days! So READY!!!
shar y -Oh, how I cried when my first child graduated. Happy and sad all at the same time.
And, the chickens in the Barbie car, funniest thing I have seen all week. What a hoot!
thanks!
Nancy -I love the honesty of your kitchen picture. I have been reading your blog forever but I am not much of a commenter. My youngest is graduating from HS and I have a grad party pin board – http://pinterest.com/nancyhts/graduation/
Enjoy!
Cathy-Hey..hey what are you doing taking pictures of MY kitchen.. he he.. our kitchen always looks like that.. I have to stop ask myself, “why when I fill the dishwasher are there still dishes left that won’t fit”
Jessica -High school graduation, how exciting!!! Congrats to Lauren!
Tonya -Congrates to you and your daughter. my oldest son just graduated from College. Take tissue with you to the ceramony!!!
it is pretty awesome to watch a boy turn into man-size right before your eyes. the have him still lay his head on your shoulder waiting for his dinner from the waiter. and even let you play with his hair. at a restaurant!
it's always fun to celebrate together. and i never make cakes except for birthdays so i enjoy that too. he requested chocolate with chocolate frosting.
he also wanted to light his own candles.
after cake craig put on a video of them when they were little….scott's 4th birthday. it was the highlight of the night. their little voices…. sean's pacifier… the way the boys couldn't say their L's and C's… the birth order traits showing up loud and clear even 11 years ago…and little baby talby just beaming in the swing while the chaos goes on all around her.
awesome.
we are so mad that we didn't take more video.
and now that is gone. G O N E.
SO here is my Public Service Announcement for today …. take video of your kids.
TODAY.
of nothing.
of everything.
of them eating dinner.
playing with their toys.
singing a song.
reading a book.
playing dress up.
taking a bath.
sitting in the yard.
playing soccer.
swinging on a swing.
being tickled.
CRYING.
LAUGHING.
SCREAMING.
because when it's gone then IT IS GONE.
you WILL NOT remember the voices. you won't. i promise.
your little boys with drooly lips, new teeth and chubby cheeks will get deep LOW voices and be taller than you and you will not have the ability to remember the sounds of them squeeling about the new "P-eeece Tars!!!" they got for their birthday (police cars)
i am NOT kidding around here.
take video today and all the time of nothing special.
Abigail Gossard -I’m finally catching up on your blog after about a year because of my two boys, one w special needs and a 6 month old, keep me busy! I found myself randomly taping them today and realizing how quickly they’ve changed in 6 months! Thanks for the reminder and for the sweet photos of your family. .
Alison Joy-Yes, crying! Thank you for a beautiful post.
Kasey -Yep, crying. So sad to see them grow up so fast.
Michelle-HOW did you know we would cry? Spooky! I say to my husband at least every other day, “I could listen to Ted’s little voice all day long.” And I do. He’ll be three in July. His little brothers are 5.5 months – yes, twin boys. Life is good … And I LOVE that birthday cake! Happy Birthday Scott! xoxo
Whitney-I don’t even have children and I agree! For Christmas I took all of our family videos and put them on DVD… and I accidentally erased one of my favorite videos of all time 🙁 Now I wish we had more of that Mother’s Day! Memories are so important!!!
Lora-AAAAAAAA-men!
My baby is 13 and just lacks a smidge being as tall as me. I DON’T like it! He still holds my hand sometimes in public, but probably not for too much longer. Shoot those videos and take lots and lots of pictures!
ArielW-in tears…. you are so right.
and as I sit here and type this crying,
I have one girl in time out
and one boy watching veggietales,
and I know I will miss this.
off to charge the camera battery.
Rachel Reeves-I’m in tears.
I posted a video of Frankie this morning, singing, and I realized how I don’t do it enough.
I totally forget what K sounded like.
Great. I’m in tears again.
mpoggie -This made my heart beat irregularly.
Earlier today, I recorded three different phone-videos of the same bathtime and felt like an idiot. I said to myself, “This is ridiculous. Calm down with the videos, maybe.”
…Nevermind, Self. Keep up the good (obsessive) work.
amanda-Needed this reminder – thank you! And I have a young man in my house with a birthday this weekend and I’m going to bring out some videos for the family to see. I’m already looking forward to it 🙂
Sierra -OH my. I just cried a little at work. I did a lot of videos when they were babies, but I haven’t been doing many lately. I definitely need to. I would hate to forget the way my 5 year old talks right now. Thanks for this public service announcement! 🙂
Beth-I’m getting my video camera out when I get home. You’ve just scared me straight!
beth larson-AMEN SISTER!!!!! I could not agree more! We did video tape quite a bit when the kids were little…but now we’ve quit! What’s that all about? I have to add one other thing —print photos!
print favorites every few months- just having them stored digitally will never be satisfying in the future because the mode of storing them changes every decade or so and you kind of loose the means to print or see them easily.
In 25 years you’ll be so excited and thankful for albums full of family photos- and your kids will thank you too!!!
(the photo of the birthday boy in black and white- directly behind his cake is a-mazing!!!!!)
xo
denise@victory rd.-my son turned 15 {gulp} 2 weeks ago. crazy… where did the time go?
like yours he is still loveable. best thing about him.
my three always ask to watch videos from when they were young on their b-days. i think they like to see my ugly-cry-face.
Tonya -My oldest just graduated from college. how did you know i was crying! i cry over every little thing. I DID VIDEO TAPE AND SOOOO VERY HAPPY I DID.
tonya -happy birthday to your boy! and thanks for the reminder to capture these fleeting moments!
Routhie -Awesome photos of him blowing out the candles! I am so glad we took videos of our girls. It’s funny to look back and hear them. My oldest still had a British accent when she was 4 (gone now…sniff sniff) and we all roar laughing listening to the weird things she said.
Eryn -I’m bookmarking this post in the hopes that one day, evntually when I have my own kids, I will always be able to remember these words. Thank you Meg! 🙂
Kristine -Crying….so. Much…..my 13 year old changed his voicemail message and it broke my heart…he had a little voice and now…so deep…
Digging out the video…thanks for the reminder…and the tears…
kathy -Sometimes I find it is almost too much to watch the videos. I have to be in the right frame of mind or all I do is cry. So much emotion tied into it all! Love your pictures~ it is crazy to watch our babies transform right in front of our eyes.
christy -You know your audience too well. I was totally crying until I read that last bit & started to laugh. I was just thinking yesterday that I have a video cam & never use it. I will now.
Maria M -We spent last Christmas break pouring over old VHS-c tapes of the boys…so funny. Those little voices crack us up.
Tiffany-What a great public service announcement. My camera fund is almost there! You are making me want to find more ways to make a little extra money so I can finally make the plunge and get the Mark 3. Videos on my phone will have to do for now. Today Olivia was rolling down a hill and requested I take a video of her, so I did. She was wearing my old first communion dress from when I was 7, princess crown and jewels.
PS- You take the BEST birthday cake blowing-out-the-candles pictures, EVER! I have so much to learn!
Vicki Esh -How do you feel about arranged marriages? I have 3 daughters (all beautiful!), and I’m always on the look out for nice young men from Christian families. Let me know if you want to set something up. 🙂
Mia -you caught me… i was crying. and, i will now go video my babes. 🙂
Kirsten J -Oh man, you got me….I’m so totally bummed that I didn’t take more videos. Have plenty of hours of my big boy, but my baby girl? Minutes. Seriously. Only minutes saved.
tracy fisher-i think we had the same happy tear for our kids birthdays! i just blogged about our little girl growing up. 🙂 -tracy
Gale -AMEN. Well said 🙂 Happy Birthday to your cutie!
Tiffany-Very handsome, what a killer smile! The time goes by so fast, too fast!
Wendi Siyajuck -I remember reading a letter from you telling me the news about Scott. I was in my college room :)Your pictures are fantastic!
Andrea-My oldest just became a teenager last week. A teenager. Sigh. Can still remember the day she was born. When they put her in my arms and the sun came through the window and lighted on her. The rush of love and protectiveness was unbelievable.
You are right about the videos. I have quite a few pictures but not many movies. Need to get the kids on that – they are the ones with the video cameras!
kristin -LOL…. you know your readers well. 😉
Amanda - Small Home Big Start-The picture of him blowing out the candles is awesome! What a great way to commemorrate his 15th birthday!
jennifer -Totally crying. And sending to my husband!
Katie S -Thank you! I got a new video camera for Christmas because my old one died right after/before(?) my third baby was born. I have not even had a chance to read about it and get it up and working. She is 9 months and crawling and I keep thinking I need to get the “good” camera working. Luckily, in this day we always have an iPhone at arms reach so she has lots of little videos, but I know those little snippets will not be enough for my heart in the future! My nap time project is to get that camera up and working!!!
lauren -You speak the truth! My favorite video is not of the ‘events’…the graduations, or awards ceremonies or Christmas pageants…it’s just of them being goofy doing nothing. Oh to have had an iPhone when they were little!
Kelly-I just shot a little video of us at dinner the other night all because of the antics of my youngest. Antics I know won’t last. 🙂 Thanks for the reminder!
Molly-getting the video camera out when we get home!!!!!
it is hard i try to walk the line between documenting things and living in the moment.
Ana -I’m at work now and crying with your words because I did not take vídeos… I now all I can do is to think: Where did all these years go? Was I sleeping or something? Now, I got adults around here and can not remember the sounds they make…You are so right…Thanks for sharing…
Angela A-My father-in-law brought some videos of my husband and his brother playing soccer when they were younger. And I realized at the end of the season that I should have recorded at least ONE soccer game from this season. He even brought those early enough to make me realize this in time but no. Or the piano recitals that my mom couldn’t attend–did not cross my mind. I will just stalk them with it all summer.
Lora -OH, you made me tear up. I haven’t visited blogs in MONTHS and this is what greets me! Thank you! 🙂
Southern Gal-We have the old videos that I need to convert to DVD. The kids love to watch themselves. I feel sorry for our baby who has lots of video when he was little and then I became a bad video mom. I try to catch it now even though he’s 11 and almost to that man stage. Ah. yes, you make me tear up reading all that.
Bethany-My little ones are sleeping right now but I promise to capture them on video when they wake up. Mine are only 4 and 2 but even those years have gone by so quick.
Mel -How it all goes by in the block of an eye. Great pics!
jamie -OH MY GOSH how did you know i was crying??!!!?? so true! it just goes by so very fast!
Kate-Love everything about the post but I can’t get enough of the cake! a simply beautiful!
Lane -Ahh…thank you. I’m out of video tapes and I need to order more! My 2nd son didn’t make his debut on our video camera movies until he was 8 months old…sooooooo SAD!!! I have to take more videos. The few that I’ve taken of my 4 1/2 year old talking about nothing are the favorite things I’ve ever laid my eyes on.
amber-Geez. That was rough! Now I HAVE to go video my 3 year old. On the couch. Eating dry cereal. Watching Woody. Thank you. You are so right.
Meredith -I have six saved voicemails from my from my first son who is now 9. The first one was when he was 3 and they go up in years. We love listening to them. I think I am 3 phones later and still have them. Love to watch and listen to videos and movies.
Sheila -STOP IT. Just stop it now. Waaaaaaah!
Analia-Such a good reminder! I love your outlook on life! and your photos! that cake!
Shari-I am right there with you! I soooooo wish we had had the modern convenience of a cell phone with a video camera back when mine were smaller. I would give ANYTHING to have those sweet little voices again. 🙁 I have been trying to video little snippets here and there, but it is so much harder when they are teenagers and dodging you at every turn! 😉
Jenn-You are so right. Mine are still young, but I think about how I should have videoed more. Love the cake…its perfect!
Tracy -Sobbing! Such a good reminder! My kids are close to yours in age. We have videos from the very young years, but so many years lost!
Terrie G-I’m with Christine!! It’s too late for me, but not to take video of the grandson!
And you are soooo right!
I’ve got him covered with photos…I need to take more video.
I was just thinking of that this morning as I was going through my photos.
I don’t take much video…need to record!
Thanks for the reminder!
And Happy Birthday to your young man!
i really like my job.
it’s so fun to get the house ready… make it pretty… plan new projects… shop for supplies.
craft weekend is so much fun!
our helpers this month were Lisa Leonard and Chrissie Rouse.
twin sisters… SUPER women… i love to spend time with them and as usual it was WAY too short.
Lisa taught handstamping to all of our guests.
it’s addicting. her shop sells stamp sets so you can make your own too… totally worth it!
i loved how comfortable this group was with each other from the beginning.
they were relaxed, happy and laid back.
i love that!
loved hearing about their lives and their friendships.
we shopped the antique stores finding treasures of all kinds.
for homes, parties AND clubs…. 🙂
mint green milkshake maker? and juicer (i think) ummmm…. YES please!!
we changed it up this month and ate at the barn this time.
we were hoping for warmer weather but kansas has been freaking out all spring.
so we were chilly but still yummy and fun to snack amoung the antiques.
this is what i stamped with lisa.
vintage silver spoons that i polished myself… so stinkin’ hard!!
i am thankful we don’t have to polish silver and can just throw everything in the dishwasher in 2013.
technology for the win!
breakfast is special at CW.
because you have a new day ahead… new friends… happiness on everyone’s face.
and kimberlee’s cinnamon rolls.
and coffee of course.
i love the mornings at the craft house!
HAPPY cheerful wreaths with adorable Hellos from the Say Hello Shop.
i loooooove how they all turn out differently and lovely.
jenny’s necklace that she handstamped… awesome.
we made bunting from Benzie Design felt fetti.
she has THE BEST felt!!
i love crafting with any of the felt from her shop.
pretty aprons all lined up.
and a tote bag from Moxie Clothing Co. (they are going through some changes but it will be there soon)
Isn’t that the truth… happy girls just radiate beauty everywhere they go.
fabric is my favorite.
some one asked me for a solid fabric last weekend… no pattern.
i said “ummm…. i don’t buy solid fabric.” ha ha ha
it’s all pattern all the time at craft weekend. 🙂
roomates for the weekend…..
SUCH A FABULOUS GROUP!!!
kimberlee and i just love craft weekend.
love to meet so many A W E S O M E women.
love to take care of them… help them get a break and go home REFRESHED.
it’s such a joy.
i can’t believe we have hosted 15 already!!
if you would like to get on the wait list for future Craft Weekends…
Kerry @ Made For Real-That is unbelievable …first I’ve seen of it!! What a fab weekend that would be : )
tiffany day-🙂 I am on the list – and keeping my fingers crossed that all works out when I get the “call”
Would be wonderful to attend – and so good for my soul!
xoTiffany
P.S. My son just turned 15 too on May 11th!
katie-reunion is seattle? i don’t have a craft house…but i have a crazy house 🙂
Andrea-I agree with the patterned fabric. I had to make myself buy some plain linen. So glad I did! Just two weeks later found some gorgeous vintage fabric yo-yo’s and quilt pieces. Sewed them on to the linen to make some handbags. Of course, just the flaps are made of the linen with the vintage embellishments, the rest of the bags are patterned fabric.
kim-Oh, Meg, I LOVE your job too! How fun!!
I’m on the list, and still hoping it works out for me to come sometime soon!
I love what you do–keep it up–you’re so inspiring. (=
Kim
misty-I want to come to a CW so so bad! The craft house looks amazing! LOVE LOVE that striped floor.
I am commenting to tell you, next time you’re in Tulsa, Ok- if you go to 61st street & highway 169, there is a QuickTrip gas station. {coming from 169} you turn right onto the road with the stoplight right before the QT. Follow that little road around about a 1/2 block & on your left there is a building that says HEART in bright red neons. {it’s a little church} By their front door, they have a MASSIVE GIANT DINO sized heart shaped rock & as soon as I saw it I thought omgosh Meg needs a pic with that rock! It’s pretty awesome & every time I see a heart shaped rock I think of your blog 🙂
Julie-Hello Meg. Huge follower of your blog. In regards to craft weekend, I was wondering if you kept track of how long people have been on the wait list and if so, if you could perhaps choose a craft weekend to pull names from the early people like me whose names have been gathering dust on the ol’ waiting list. Just a thought! I’ll love you regardless!
denise@victory rd.-every bit of this is cheery.
i am thrilled that lisa is sharing her stamping secrets with us. i want to get a kit and get to work on my silverware, too!
and those “hello” wreaths! WANT.
Lisa Dick -So much yummy eye candy! Thank you for sharing your beautiful photos. I cant wait to get the chance to go to a Whatever Craft Weekend!!!
kerry-looks like you had an amazing time as usual, your house is SO well put together, bright, colourful and happy happy happy!! Are Lisa & Chrissie twins??!? They are SO alike! Kerry x
Sara Torbett-Happy, happy, happy post! So inspired by you and Kimberlee following hard after Jesus and listening to your hearts. Imagine the lives that are refreshed because of it! 🙂 As soon as my newest baby is weaned (6 more months!) I’m adding my name to the email list! Attending Craft Weekend is on my list for turning the big 3-0.
Tiffany-I’m always amazed that you find new ways to make the craft house even cuter! Those cupcakes… I would have been right there with you eating several! Blessing those women… You and Kimberlee have such a gift. XX
Linda -Looks as fabulous and happy as ever! Maybe someday….
Gale -So happy I was part of #13 – would love to come back even though my hubby said, “Can’t you just make bunting at home?” Duh! Of course – but it wouldn’t be as fun!!
Glad ya’ll had a great time!
Mary-hi meg! this looks so great!
i totally want to come one day! 🙂
i’ve been trying to find your email to inquire about donating spome ‘swag’ from our shoppe!
could you let me know if that is possible and how that all works?
thank you so much!
my daughter and i recently opened a shoppe and would love to share it with you and your ladies.
xoxo
Shelly Massey-OHHHHHH… the drooling that went on while I perused through this post. Just the kind of colorful happiness that I love. Rock on, Craft Weekenders!!! P.S. Congrats on your marathon run! Yay you!
Jenn-This just looks like heaven on earth to me. What fun! One day, I’ll get that email that says I’ve been picked. I just hope its sooner than later 🙂
Megan Jewett-Yeah!!! Thanks Meg.
I have been eagerly awaiting this post. It was so nice to look back at these and remember the weekend. I miss you, Kimberlee, Chrissie, Lisa and my fellow crafters so much. Can we have a “Craft Weekend 15” reunion? Just looking at this made me smile and will make my afternoon brighter. I’m slowly incorporating the crafty goodness into my home. I also can’t wait to share this with all my friends and family who asked, “what the heck is Craft Weekend?”
Allison-I wish I had a vintage store near me that sold globes. I was trying to explain to my girls that their grandparents were visiting Germany this week. It’s so hard to show them on flat paper how far away that is. I always look forward to your craft weekend posts, so much color, so much fun and so much craftiness!
tara-you do have a manchild.
i do too….it’s weird & wonderful.
the girls look older…even annie.
those pictures of the dandelions and the sunset…gorgeous.
Michelle -your photos always make me smile.
Rach-Looks like the beginning of summer is near. I’m sure your summer list will be packed with fun and silly things as well. My kids still love summer afternoons covered in shaving cream thanks to you!
Amber -Can you will you please add the dandelion field picture to your prints for sale? : ) Please? : ) Whenever my boys bring them to me in front of their Dad, my hubby tears up remembering this song about the love between a son and mama. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLwvtEUiQXw
Jenny M-You take such beautiful pictures! What kind of camera do you use and what editing software?
Rachel Matilda -Your crayon craft is featured on Pioneer Woman today!!!
Tiffany-That looks and sounds like such a perfect evening! Still waiting for our ground to dry out more here so we can take the bikes out. Not much beats a family evening ride followed by ice cream! Btw- stunning pictures, as always. Miss you!
Taryn -Love the dandelion pictures. I wish I didn’t live in the desert.
Tracy Fisher -love your photos. and your “happy” reflections. -tracy
Heidi DeGroot -I can’t believe you already have dandelions in KS and the ones that have gone to seed too! We finally have green grass, no snow, and buds on the trees here in southwest MN 🙂
Kerry Wiebe-Megs, I always have such a great time with you and you do an AMAZING job with craft weekend. You and Kimberlee ROCKS!
Love you both so much I’m so glad I could help out!!
Heather Simnitt -That sunshine did NOT make it up to Topeka! Poo – still dreary here, even now. Praying for some sunshine later today ‘cuz I really need to feel it!
Beautiful photos of a lovely Sunday evening with the fam. Love it!
Sonja-That does look like a really beautiful night. Your dirt road is perfect for bike riding – I wish I had one like it here!
Sara Torbett-I would describe these pictures as “golden” 🙂 Thanks for sharing the happiness. Can’t wait to see Craft Weekend pics! 🙂 Happy rest day to you.
Amy @Lucky Number13-i love those warm Spring nights with the gorgeous light. my kids got new bikes this weekend but it rained all weekend long so i hope it dores up this week so we can ALL bust out our bikes and Charlotte can learn to ride a bike already! happy Monday, have a great week!
jenny -Oh Meg, how I already miss you! I feel like I did one blink and CW was all over-so sad. And…SO sleepy today. Me thinketh the kiddies will watch lots of shows this afternoon so I can get some snoozing in. 🙂
Viktoria-My kids love their bikes. we live in the city so it’s not a lot of space to ride, but they menage to have fun even here.
Seriously Sassy Mama-What a lovely country road you live on. I live in the burbs, but my back yard is huge, and secluded with large trees. I like to sit out there and pretend I live in the country.
Lisa M. -Great pictures! It looks warm there. I am in Western PA and it will just not warm up, but the sun has been shining and the grass is green…I’ll take it! I had my son (who is 7) watch the two videos that you posted on your last post and he was laughing so hard at “the way animals eat their food” he could barely breathe. You know those laughs where nothing comes out? My husband was laughing at Evan laughing! They were great. Thanks for sharing! Cannot wait to see Craft Weekend pics. Especially the aprons…my favorite part!
well…. i did it! it is hard to believe that i actually have done 13.1 miles. but it's TRUE!!
whoop whoop!
let me recap the weekend as it went down.
on friday, mr. duerksen left with four of my kids for a bball tournament out of town. so to begin my girls weekend i got a full 24 hours ALONE. um…yeah…that rocked! then…craig accidentally took my car keys so i couldn't even leave my house and you know what? it was such a blessing. i HAD to stay home and just be alone. ahhhhhh.
i did laundry, cleaned the chicken's box and watched crazy stupid, Love. (i love that movie!)
:)
saturday morning i put on my favorite shirt to bring good vibes my way…. ha!
my friends picked me up since i had no car. and we took off for our road trip! as usual… talk talk talk all the way there.
we picked up our packets with our bib inside it and shopped the expo a little. i bought sporty sunglasses…you know i needed them after all that fashion wear all winter. i hate the way the sport sunglasses look. so much. but i can wear them with my hat so it was needed.
they had this wall with the names of all of the people who died in the OKC bombing. the people the race was honoring. the first 168 bib numbers were given to them. it was emotional.
one of the best parts of marathon training is getting "CARB LOAD" the week of the race. and believe me… i did.
we went back to our hotel and right to bed. our wake up time was 4:00 AM. oy veh. i slept terrible as expected and leaped out of bed at the alarm. my roommate was pretty surprised by that. 🙂
we geared up with all our running stuff…gummy energy chews, wipes, kleenex, money (? we didn't know??), body glide, hair ties, hats, sunglasses, our bib numbers, ipods, phones and layers. we waited in the cool air for 35 minutes for the "every 15 minutes" shuttle that was suppised to be there at 4:30. blah.
then headed to a sunrise service at The Survivor Tree. again… emotional.
it's hard to see but that is because it was completely dark outside…it was 5:30 AM. we sang worship songs… Bless the Lord Oh My Soul and Amazing Grace were too hard to even sing. i was too choked up. i just closed my eyes and listened.
the pastor read from Jesus Calling and it was just so appropriate.
we made a stop at gear check.
(use gear check if you do a race… super easy and convenient)
we made one last pit stop… porta potties….gross.
then we found our pace group and waited. with 10,000 other people. they had 168 seconds of silence for those who died in OKC. i cried. and prayed. i was getting VERY nervous with all the unknowns… can i do this? am i safe? what if i get hurt? what if i fall? you know… all that stuff that Satan loves to put in your mind when big things are happening. i texted craig and kimberlee. i needed one last boost of love before i took off. they gave it to me. :)
some of my friends are conscience of their time when they run. these were free tattoos you could put on to know your pace. i was not remotely interested. i can only do what i can do at that moment. not anyone else's time.
the gun went off and we stood still for a looooong time because we were SO far back in the line 14 minutes after the gun went off we crossed the start line and began our first half marathon!
and it was fun!
there was loud music. people in their driveways all along the way. some had water… some had beer…. donuts… signs… all SO SWEET!
then the hills began. geez louise. there were so many hills on this course. we didn't train for that. but we did it. i mean come on….LOOK AT THAT HILL!!!
and that wasn't even the bad hill that everyone told us about.
the sun was coming up as we came through this tunnel. it was beautiful light… i wished i had my big camera. (and that i was not running… ha)
firefighters were all through the race. which made me tear up every time we came up on them. they were sweating like crazy walking with all that gear on… what amazing men!
we ran right past the capital building. that was really cool. and the sun was just behind it… GORGEOUS.
we hit the halfway mark and decided on taking a picture. try # 1 try #2 we were honestly smiling.
i repeated to myself so many times "God's spirit is with you" "present your body as worship" and "Glorify God with your body"
i made it 9.5 miles before walking!! that is AMAZING. i had never run more than 8 miles before that… so i had my personal best that day.
around mile 11 i was feeling a little delirious. and i said to my friend "have you seen Taledega Nights?" and i quoted this line.
i know i know. ricky bobby and carl naughton jr. are complete blasphermors through that entire movie. but… i quoted it because as i was dragging and weak..
i said "well….i am picturing my jesus in running shorts and nike frees…running beside me"
we giggled a bit and decided Jesus probably would have been way faster than me.
i walked a bit, ran a bit, walked a bit and then at mile 12 an older man on the sides controlling traffic, looking like morgan freeman, leaned in towards me and did a quiet clapping and said quietly
"let's go. let's go. run. you can do it. let's go"
and it was so quiet that i just listened to him.
i ran.
and suddenly there was the finish line way up ahead!!
i turned to my friend and said "i am so glad you made me do this! THANK YOU so much!"
i meant it. it was such an awesome morning!
i took out my headphones and took it all in. people were all cheering and screaming for the runners. it was so cool. big races are such a positive atmosphere! every runner feels like a rockstar.
and there i was. done. THIRTEEN MILES. 2:46:48 it's not fast but i don't care one single bit. i did it. (nice glasses…..)
after we caught our breath, regrouped, ate oranges, bagels and bananas to refuel, we headed to the memorial again.
MANY people ran for those they lost in the OKC bombing. the memorial had all kinds of sites like this.
we made it to the shuttles.
i was beginning to feel sick.
then i got sick.
and i was miserable.
my body was in full-on-freak-out mode.
it was not pretty.
my friends let me sleep for awhile and after an hour and a half i was better.
i rallied.
i ate a quick lunch and then it was time for massage.
it's what we do. we run hard and then we go to the spa. the best way to run a race. period.
then dinner and a DELICIOUS drink to celebrate! i am so proud of all of us!!
we trained hard for months. with 15 kids between the four of us…and all of our jobs…and busy lives…
Andrea@KnittyBitties-I loved reading this Meg because one week from today I’ll be running my first half. My stomach already lurches if I think too much on it, but it’s going to be amazing and great and fun and I can’t wait. I did 10 miles yesterday and felt really good, so 13.1 should be cake, right?!?! 😀
Congratulations on training and following through!
XOXO,
Andrea
tara-oh how i remember the half that i ran in ATL…..
crazy awesome and crazy hard.
i laughed when i read that you imagined jesus running beside you in shorts and nike frees. i am sure he was there beside you..i need to quit imagining him in a white robe and try your imagination.
hilarious.
Carrie -This made me cry. So proud of you.
I am part of a full/half/5K organizing committee as part of my job ans runners never cease to impress me. Love their spirit and determination and sense of humor. If I didn’t have fibro I think I would try it. But I’m just not tough enough!
Momofthree -Great job! I am training for my first half marathon at Niagara Falls in June and watching as you trained has been inspiring:)
Did you talk anywhere on the blog about your running playlist? On my shorter runs I have been happy with no music but now for the longer distances I really think I would like to have some music to help me along. I’d love to hear what you were listening to!
Katherine @ Grass Stains-Had to add my congratulations and tell you how proud I am of you for running your first half, Meg! (And even if you never do it again, it’s something to be incredibly proud of!) 🙂 Way to go!!
Lora-I teared up many times reading your post. Congrats to you!! I especially love the part about the Morgan Freeman man cheering you on. That’s so great! Since he played God maybe that was God’s way of cheering you on 🙂
I’ve been to the OKC bombing sight and walked around the fence with all the memorials stuck in it. It was completely silent. I’ve never felt anything like that before. It was very emotional.
Yay for you!
Leslie-As I read that I felt so proud of you! I read your blog all the time and you are such an encouragement to me! 🙂 How excited to ACTUALLY do it!!
Jenn-Wow! I’m sitting here crying. You may or may not know this, but you ran for your kids, your husband, those that died that horrible day, those that died in Boston another horrible day, those that were hurt, you ran for those of us that read your blog and you ran for you! I’m so proud of you! You rock! And Jesus was with you in running shorts and Nike frees and he’s proud of you too!
Alicia @ La Famille-CONGRATS!!!!!
I’ve run four halves…two were to get me back into shape after babies. I’ll have to start thinking about another now! It is SUCH a rush every time. SO SO worth it!!
Congrats again!!!
Andrea T -I havent been by to read in awhile…busy, back to work. something made me drop by. i am so glad i did. i am wiping away the tears. just the motivation i needed! CONGRATS!!!!!!! what an amazing accomplishment!
Heather R. -RoCk oN!!! You should be so proud of yourself! Great job!
Krista -So proud of you MEG!!!!! Thank you for sharing!
P.S. Your pace is just fine 🙂
I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to run/ walk for nearly 3 hours but I’m working on it!!
denise@victory rd.-meg, tearing up.
i just love every bit of this- even the photos that don’t do the reality justice.
i love your honesty.
the beginning the day in worship, and continuing in worship as you ran (and as you blogged).
i related to the not sleeping, and jumping up at the alarm, and to the texting for one more dose of love. praise God for those relationships that nourish us.
and i loved that you all ran for okc.
but my FAVORITE part (when i really teared up) was when “morgan freeman” spurred you on. makes me think of the Spirit nudging you so you finish well (which from my experience if more for my good, than God’s).
and WOOT WOOT!
maybe someday i’ll join you and run my own 1/2 (yikes).
amanda d-Congratulations! Smiled through the whole post … “God’s spirit is with you”
“present your body as worship”, and “Glorify God with your body” – made me teary. I’m going to say it when I’m on the treadmill b/c I always feel like I’m dying when I’m running. 😉
Lori Austin -This post made me BAWL!!
So proud of you.
That’s all (heading for tissue). 🙂
Lisa -I’m so sorry you got sick! ugh! I have done 2 half marathons and both times I got totally sick after too. Not sure why that is cause all through my training I felt great! So glad you did it and had a great time. 🙂
Talia -Congratulations! You ROCK girl! Well done!
Amy -Beautiful and inspiring, Meg! I will never run but I LOVE the enthusiasm my running friends have 🙂 You did it!!!!
Mindy W-Well, I’m proud of you. Just plain bursting my buttons proud of you.
Kimberly Parker-My cousin ran in the same race! I’m proud of you both!
beth larson-Meg…I am smiling and crying and so happy for you! What an amazing accomplishment Girl! My body really and truly was not made to run- but it would be my proudest accomplishment if I could ever do one. : )
Proud of you and for you!
p.s. I ordered one of your prints and framed it for my BFF for her birthday and she loved it soooo much! It’s the sunflower with the words I am here to serve with JOY. It’s so her- xo
a -Awesome!
I ran my first (of two) half marathons a couple of years ago and I was so proud of myself. I called my dad and told him I had finished and my time and he said “Isn’t that usually the time for a full marathon?”
Jill -Congratulations! It’s been fun to read about your journey on your blog.
~ A fellow runner and fan in San Diego
Valerie @ Chateau a la mode-Meg, can I just say I am so, so proud of you. I wish I knew you in real life to give you a huge hug. You rock girlie. May I also take a minute to let you know my husband is a firefighter and I got a tear in my eye with the photo of the firefighters. They truly are heros. They really are men and women who would lay down their lives for others and not think twice about it. xo
Tracy Fisher -i am so very proud of you! -tracy fisher
Katey-Your post brought tears to my eyes several times. Wow. So powerful. I’m glad you did it. Thanks for sharing your awesome adventure. I loved reading about it and seeing your pictures. God is Good.
Cari-This had me in tears. For one, I am originally from Oklahoma. Things like bombings always seem so much more “real” when they happen in your home. Secondly, I am freaking OUT about attempting my first 5K next week. Freaking.Out. I have convinced myself I’m just a big girl and it’s okay if I walk a lot of it. I need to change my attitude. Thirdly, so proud of you for reaching your goal! What an accomplishment!! Way to go!!! Thank you for letting us “run” this journey with you.
Debbie Hargadon -What a great recap and nice post. Thanks for all that you share!
Rebekah-GO MEG! You made me cry, and almost — ALMOST — made me want to run. Not quite. But almost. 🙂 Way to go!
shiela-believe me….once you start doing some kind of marathon, you are hooked for the rest of your life! keep running & keep inspiring sssso many gazillions of people around you…way to go! too many lives are waiting to be touched by your example. every sweat/trials/hills…they are all good & will make you stronger. to God be all the glory! He is the one that allowed you to accomplish more than you could ever imagine.
Wendy-You are such a motivator! I want to do this. thanks for posting about it. I love the Taledago Nights quote. So funny!
Tracy -Congratulations, Meg, to you and your friends! YOU ROCK!! so inspiring.
Robin Canter -I don’t know you but feel so happy for you and am so glad you ran this race and had such a positive experience. Pretty darn good girl.
Cathy-Ok.. you made me cry.. I am so happy for you.. maybe that little guy was your running angel.. only you could see/hear him.. say run… now I have a quote. Run Sally Run.. Dick and Jane. I would love to try a half.. considering I don’t RUN to start with that would be a big thing..
Janelle -Oh you made me teary eyed! Thanks for the inspiration…I think you’re right, I can do it too 🙂 Any tips for how to start??? Did you do Couch Potato to 5K? Number of days per week?? Amount of time spent running? Would love to know how you got started when you get a chance!
nora -Congratulations! But I must say – you did not run 13 miles, you RAN 13.1 MILES! That .1 counts!!!
Thank you for the awesome recap. What a wonderful race.
mary liz cawley -Love this post … brought tears to my eyes the whole way through. Congrats on 13.1 … you rock. I especially loved the “Morgan Freeman” man quietly cheering you on … LOVE HIM
kathy -And you trained through a horrible winter-that is the most impressive part to me! I loved the reading from Jesus Calling. Thanks for passing on some inspiration 🙂
Hannah-CONGRATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! so so awesome! most of my friends are BIG runners…so i signed up for a half last year…just so i could be in on the girls trip! ha! i wasn’t fast…but you can’t explain the feeling of accomplishment when you are done! not sure if i will ever do it again…but like you…i can say…i did it! love how you take pictures along the way!!! :):)
Gale -CONGRATS!!! SO proud for you – and I lived in Norman when that bombing happened. So sad and terrifying and something I will never forget. My Okie heart is so blessed to see those pictures and know you were part of it.
YOU ROCK, GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 🙂
sallie -WooHoo! You did it! Congratulations! I’ve been following and checking in to see how you did! Amazing accomplishment! Wonderful words about your journey and race day! I love that you had the chance to worship before the race! You and your friends are an inspiration!
Leslie-WOW!! Congratulations to you and your friends – what a true accomplishment. I was teary when reading about the moments of silence and the pictures of the memorials. Thanks so much for the recap – glad you shared with all of us 🙂
Heather -This is so beautiful, Meg. You did it!!! What a moving experience. How awesome is that Morgan Freeman guy? So cool. One day when my baby is a bit older, I’ll get back to running. You’re my inspiration!!! 🙂
Terrie-What a great post Meg! I’m so proud of You! And the rest of your group too…Go Angie!!
How stinkin’ emotional…I’m not sure I would have made it…
Shoot I teared up just reading this and thinking about how emotional it would be.
What an accomplishment…with family, friends and God..we can do anything!
Praising Him for all your Blessings!!
Hugs!!
Jenni -Thanks for posting. I knew you were training but didn’t realize it was for the OKC run. I grew up there and was a senior in high school when the bombing happened. Now I live in California where no one quite gets the impact of what happened there. It was a nice surprise to see this today.
And way to go! You inspire me!
Jess in Chicagoland-Meg, congrats on finishing your first half marathon! Reading this post of yours was such a huge inspiration for me and I got chills as I read all about it 🙂 I’ve been on a running journey of my own for the last year and a half and am currently training for my first 5k (it’s on June 16, eeeeek, haha). I’m a little nervous, but I know I can do it! Thanks for sharing your experience… it is quite the wonderful accomplishment! <3
misty-I wish I would have known you were there! I would have LOVED to have met you!! {I’d rather meet my favorite bloggers than any celeb} My mother in law & her sister run marathons. They are so amazing. I would love to be able to run an entire marathon one day, or actually, even the 1/2 would be fantastic. Isn’t the memorial so moving? We went last year & I couldn’t hardly sit through the part where they play the phone calls. I still remember sitting my my math class & hearing what had happened… I was in 7th grade, but I remember it like it was yesterday.
So excited for you! What an awesome accomplishment!
jodie -You are amazing! So proud of you ans your friends. You are all an inspiration! !
beki-Wow, Meg, that was powerful! You’re my hero 😉
Barbara -YAY MEG!! I’ve been checking here the last couple of days to see if you posted about the run….great job! So very happy for you!! Way to go!!
Mary-so rad!!!
what an amazing accomplishment!
xoxo
Jan B. -That was a great recap. Way to go! Very inspirational.
Linda -You are amazing and inspiring! Thank you!
Jenna -Tears! What a race to run … An amazing tribute. Congratulations!!
tonya -that pic of the firefighters totally did me in! so proud of you and your girlfriends for training so hard and accomplishing your goal!!!
Kathy-wow wow wow I am SO proud of you! I have been thinking about training for one of those but so on the fence … now you have me thinking even more about it … GREAT JOB!!!!
Heidi Durant -You did rock that! So awesome. Last month, a friend and I ran NINE 5ks. It was insane, but when I crossed the ninth and final finish line, I was so proud if myself and us! Loved your training posts and running attire. Moms can and will run!!
Lindsey -Way to go! What a great accomplishment!
Heather -I cried through this whole post. You inspire me. Craftily, Spiritually, as a Parent, Style-wise. You’re rockin it! 🙂 Good Job Meg!
Angela A-Congratulations Meg! Such an amazing accomplishment and amazing day. So thankful you had so many to cheer all of you on–even the Morgan Freeman dude!
Kristin S-Yea Meg, yea, yea, yea!!!
So proud of you!!!
After a year injured, I long to run again. I’m a run/walker and really do enjoy it and miss it – as do my growing thighs. I have hope of returning but am content if it isn’t God’s plan.
Maybe, someday, I’ll walk/run a half. I want to!
tinaehb3 -This brought tears to my eyes 🙂 This is definitely going on my list of must accomplish!!
Carrie-I am racewalking my first post second baby event on May 12. Prior to her I have 6 marathons and several halfs under my belt. She is almost 2 1/2 so it has been awhile and I am nervous. I racewalk and I look nerdy doing it, but I am evidently good at it. I wish my knees would let me run. I am hoping to keep a 12:15 pace, slower then what I used to do, realistic now I suppose. My husband against my getting back into this as it has involved some watching of the kiddos while I do my long training on the weekend. I have not shared that I already have a race picked out in September!!
Colleen -Congrats to you and your running friends! Quite an inspiration you are…maybe I will try for a 5K first! Well done.
jenny -You’re such an inspiration! Congratulations!!!
Amy K. -SO PROUD OF YOU… that you did it, but especially how you have spent the past week using the whole thing to glorify God!
Tiffany-God is so good….(then u say) ..All the time. I am very happy for you, this is an impressive accomplishment! Rockstar!
Hannah Lesley-There is nothing cooler than running a race. I am convinced of it. You should be so proud of yourself! I’m proud of you:)
ann-Congratulations Meg! I am so proud of you and being a runner myself, I know what hard work that was! Yea! Go you! Isn’t amazing that so much of our physical body has to do with our MIND! (Having God give you strength helps, too!!) Hugs, Ann in Park Ridge
Courtney-Congratulations! I got a little teary reading this too! I ran my one and only half a couple of years ago and it was amazing! My body freaked out afterward too and I felt horrible! I love the encouragement you got toward the end and how you kept yourself going! And super impressed that you ran that far before you walked! Super inspiring…thanks for sharing!
melodee-you are amazing! all of you girls are! congrats!!
Jeanelle -I just wept when I read what the older man said to you at mile 12…God is just the best. So glad you made it. You’re awesome.
Kelly-I’m getting emotional for you! I know what it means to mentally and physically do something you didn’t think you would ever be able to do! Such a HUGE accomplishment! Congratulations!
becky @ farmgirl paints-i am so proud of you meg. seriously running a marathon seems impossible to me…but YOU DID IT! rock star. love the mantra you said to yourself.
Connie -Congratulations!
Leann -Congratulations to you and your friends!!!! You are all AMAZING women in my book.
Rachel B. -I was tearing up reading your post! What an amazing opportunity! What an example of Philippians 4:13!!!
Mia-AMAZING! You are an inspiration to all of us who have never run a half marathon. Clearly, those runs in 17 degrees weather paid off!
Tiffany clark-GOOD FOR YOU! You’re so amazing! I’m so happy you did that for yourself! I didn’t realize how emotional it would be, but reading this post, now I get it. Wow.
Carol S.-Remember I hung up my running shoes after my first 5K….but am sooooo proud of you. Loved all the pics and stories. Adored Morgan Freeman’s encouragement at the end, and the Jesus in the tuxedo clip really made me laugh. Haven’t seen it but I need to memorize that line…cause I like my Jesus to party a little, too. Sigh, great work Meg, thanks for sharing the journey.
CathyC-Good for you Meg! That is super-awesome!!!!!!! You should be so proud!!!!!!! 🙂
Mary-Way proud of you! Big congrats!
Had to chuckle about Jesus in running shorts…I have a feeling he was smiling too!
Rach-Congrats! It must have been an amazing feeling of accomplishment!
chrissi -inspiring post. thank you, i loved it.
Anne -I’m so proud of you!!! Way. To. Go. And you look adorbs in those running glasses. Don’t tell yourself otherwise, cause its just not true! Congratulations to all of you.
kim-i’m so proud of you , meg.
this post made me choke up.
(which isn’t something that happens for me a lot).
picturing the morgan-freeman-lookalike quietly encouraging you made my throat swell up, and tears well up.
and the special sights at the memorial. the bibs.
so amazing.
i remember the day of the bombing, i was super young, and spent the whole day watching the news (unsupervised). i think it is incredibly special that you did this.
and you’re right. now you can always say you did it. 🙂
it’s a good feeling, isn’t it?
Lori H -Love this story Meg and I am so proud that you did it! And here I am, worried about an 8K with my lately-rebelling 50-year-old body. Haha.
tracy dickinson-way to go! my sis has done the okc half and it was pretty amazing. i am training for my first half in november! now you need to do a full…!!!!!
Stephanie -I’m totally wiping tears away. 🙂 how amazing for you! I love that you leaned on God and wanted to present your body a living sacrifice.
I lived in OK before the bombing. That memorial is so moving. I would love to go back.
I ruptured my Achilles’ tendon almost 2 years ago while on a run and it still bothers me. I don’t see a half marathon (or even a mile run! Lol) in my future.
Good for you! So glad to see the update!
Jenn -Meg, you made me tear up by the end of the post. I ran my first two half marathons last year and am so ready to do it again after reading about your experience. You did rock that half. Way to go!
Melissa-So proud of you! Sounds like you did amazing and soaked it all in – perfect! Stinks you got sick afterwards.
tiffany gardner-YAY MEG!!! I was totally standing on a street in my neighborhood (by the beer guys) cheering you on! I kept telling my husband… I have to cheer on my blog girl… he said .. is that creepy??? Maybe… but I said I would be there and I was!! My hubby and oldest son ran the 5k. The run was awesome… the day was awesome … our city is awesome. So glad you came!!
Lynette-Great job, sounds like a pretty cool experience!
Lisa M. -So wonderful Meg!! I’ve been checking for this post all weekend and all day today 🙂 That is so awesome that you took pictures throughout the race to save those memories. I love your mantra “God’s spirit is with you….” Thanks for sharing. I ran a 5 mile race last fall and I had just started training in September. After about mile 3 I kept asking myself, “Why? Why am I doing this?” but then when I was done, I was so glad and I will probably do it again, but honestly? Give me a 3 mile run any day and I’m good 🙂
CONGRATULATIONS on reaching your goal!
Ashley E -Great job Meg!!! Sad I didn’t get to see you, but that’s life. 🙂 You should do the Route 66 1/2 in Tulsa this November…. 🙂
jamie -oh my gosh. i better hurry up and wipe my tears before my kids come down here and see me crying. what a beautiful recap of your race experience. i am so proud of you my imaginary friend! what an amazing accomplishment!
stephany @ home is what you make it-Nice work!
I refuse to run for longer than 1 hour at a time, so I train for 10k’s.
Maybe I’ll decide that I would like to run for longer than 1 hour at a time someday, but for now that is good.
Right now I am training for a 10k at the beginning of August…and it is in the park i run in all the time, so I can practice the route from my house!
Does anybody go for a run during Craft Weekend?
Sarah Wolfe-Awesome! Makes me want to do one too… eventually 🙂
i love children's books. when i find one with illustrations that pull me in i always feel like drawing. they are just such a beautiful way to enjoy childhood. i have great memories of reading with my kids.
annie is working hard to finish up something at school for points. she has had all year to get points but now that it's the end of the year i am guessing there is an ice cream party or something that has given her incentive to buckle down. she has been reading each afternoon. she is not really a sit down and read for an hour kind of girl usually. that is ok. i am not that kind of girl either… my dad wanted me to be so badly.
i thought i would share some of HER favorites today. this is her stack she was working through that she carefully selected.
this was a book that Scott got during his preschool LOVE OF EAGLES phase. he was obsessed with eagles for a few years. i remember going to his classroom as the surprise guest and reading it to his whole class. we love this pretty book.
Martha and Skits …. my dad gave us a whole collection of these books. BEFORE they gave Martha a show on pbs. my kids really liked these… all five of them.
Too Tall Houses…. pretty book about friendship and competing. :)
Art & Max…. brillant book for anyone who likes art….super pretty!
Is Your Mama a Llama? …. i had this book memorized at one point. so many years of reading it over and over. who doesn't like a book with baby and mama animals?!
there is something adorable to me about llamas. Anna Dewdney ties toddlers and llamsas together perfectly. :) Annie loved these two llama mama books…. always loves to say "i've done that…." on the tantrum page. ha ha ha
The Three Snow Bears Jan Brett is famous… everyone knows her books. this one is the story of the three bears but drawn so lovely. and my kids make silly voice for all of the bears and it's very funny.
If You Give a Moose a Muffin but this one was our favorite to read as a family! i have a moose voice that makes my kids crack up and i always use it he says "do you have any old socks?" when he wants to make sock puppets. love this book.
My Garden…. talby and annie love this one. always…. EVERY TIME …. say "i wish our garden was like that"
Diary of a Spider ….cutest books! i love every detail that is in these three Diary books. seriously!
cassidynoga -When she’s old enough, introduce her to the Babysitter’s Club Books (basically my childhood…) (I think she’s old enough for the BSC Little Sister books!). Also the Boxcar Children series. I’m 20 and I STILL love those. In 3rd grade, I got the second highest amount of Accelerated Reader points in the entire school because of those two series.
Also: I LOVE Click Clack Moo. I have a stuffed cow from that book.
TonyaElise -Currently in love with Sandra Boynton books. She really gets kid humor, and they RHYME! And I have some favorite Golden Books from my childhood that I love to read to my kids: The Poky Little Puppy, Home for a Bunny, Four Puppies. Those never get old.
Oh, and I think you should share a video with us in your moose voice, lol.
Victoria -Those are some of our favorite books too! Right now my almost 8 year old is into Amelia ______ books by Marissa Moss (I think American Girl puts them out). They are diaries of a girl named Amelia and she adores them.
I will check out those Kevin Sherry ocean books, they look like fun!
I hope your 1/2 marathon was awesome! You are a role model to all of us Mama’s!
Angela -I loved Owl Moon by Jane Yolen – I just got to meet her last week and she is an absolutely lovely woman. This was a special book for my Dad and I, just like the father and daughter in the book. I also loved Berenstein Bears.
Also, if Talby is looking for anything good to read, check out the auther Sharon Creech – particularly Bloomability. It is a great book. I have read all of Creech’s books and I love her writing.
Dena -A couple of my favorites from my childhood are:
Andrew Henry’s Meadow by Doris Burn
The Ernie and Bert Book by Norman Stiles
My daughter loves the Pinkalicious books (Pinkalicious, Purplicious, Silverlicious, etc) by Elizabeth and Victoria Kann
Couple others we love:
Katie Love the Kittens by John Himmelman
Chickens to the Rescue by John Himmelman
Wacky Wednesday and There’s a Wocket in my Pocket by Dr. Suess (but we love them all)
We love the Litte critter books by Mercer Mayer and the Berenstain Bear books also and for really little ones the Sandra Boynton board books are awesome.
One I would suggest for you that we like is Dog’s colorful Day by Emma Dodd. it makes me think of you and your love of color.
Meg G. -I love that Tom Lichtenheld’s books made the list! I used to work with him a few years ago at an ad agency here in Chicago and remember when he took a sabatical to write one of his books. He’s such a nice and talented guy!
mkpoggie -Great recs! I haven’t heard of a couple of these titles and I’m excited to try them out! A few books that were always a hit with my preschool class were “Falling for Rapunzel” (Leah Wilcox- the story of Rapunzel with a hilarious twist of misunderstanding…plus the illustrations are so creative), “Smiley Shark” (Ruth Galloway…a friendly shark has trouble making friends) and “Aliens Love Underpants” (Claire Freedman…Exactly what it sounds like. Aliens really, really like underpants. So silly).
Absolute favorite though? “A Bad Case of the Stripes,” by David Shannon. Gorgeous and a message that every child (and, frankly, adult) should hear. I met David Shannon once at book signing. And I cried like an idiot. It was ridiculous.
melissa@joyineveryseason-I love children’s books too, and can’t bring myself to clear the bookshelves even though my kids are older … we always loved anything by Robert Munsch … his books are CRAZY funny stories with hilarious illustrations … and also King Bidgood’s in the Bathtub by Audrey and Don Wood … also a crazy story with beautiful illustrations. And then there’s Holly Hobbie’s adorable Toot and Puddle books … very cute characters and beautiful, beautiful pictures. Happy reading to Annie!
Jen -I love this post! My girls are 8 and 5 and I recognize and know several of the books you listed well. I am always looking for more good storybooks and will now look for the others at our library. Thanks! My girls love Fancy Nancy books and Jan Brett books. Some of our other favs include:
Grumpy Bird by Jeremy Tankard – this is MY favorite!
Today I Feel Silly and Other Moods That Make My Day – Jaime Lee Curtis
The Easter Egg – Jan Brett
Parts – Tedd Arnold
How to Bake an American Pie – Karma Wilson
Bethany-I see lots of our favorites here too. Right now it’s me reading to my little ones. I look forward to them enjoying our favorite books again when they are the readers.
Christie-LOVE this post! Thank you for sharing!
“You Are My I Love You” is an all-time FAVORITE at our house! As well as about 10,000 other books!
Keep those darlings reading!
Happy, Happy Day!!!
Sarah -Please do a race report! I’m running my first half in a few weeks and I am trying to gather as much sane info as possible! I know now how much effort goes into the training and I’m amazed that you can fit it in alongside everything else you do! Cheering for you from afar!
Shaun -Love Pete the Cat…
Follow the link below to a live reading of Pete the Cat! Our librarian showed this one day…the kids LOVED it…so did I!! Enjoy!!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUubMSfIs-U
Shaun
Sasha -I love all of your picks. My fave authors include Mem Fox, Rosemary Wells (esp, max cleans up), sam McBratley (Guess How Much I Love You), Keiko Kaszaa, Eric Carle…oh the list goes on and on. Ish, peter Reynolds. Press Here, Herve Tullet. Not a Box, Antoinette Portis.
If you haven’t read Mem Fox’s books for adults as well they are worth it too. Your kids might be a bit old for it to be applicable, but when you wrote that you make a terrific moose voice it just reminded me of her.
Congrats to Annie and best wishes to her as another school year comes to a close.
YOU GO, GIRL!
Kate-mad at mamma is one of my favorites. seriously awesome.
Tiffany -Good list, thanks for sharing. Pinkalicious is popular, her and Junie B Jones these days.
Kristen-We love “17 Things I’m Not Allowed To Do Anymore” by Jenny Offill. OHMY, it is a hilarious and an artistically beautiful book – such a cool mixed media format, and lots of fun with all-things-beavers. Not sure who requests it more, me or the kids… 🙂 Also love the whole “Scaredy Squirrel” series – I think I was Scaredy Squirrel in a former life. Dry humor and squirrels…a great combo! 🙂
Praying for you, runner girl…keep those Scriptures coming! YOU ARE AMAZING AND YOU WILL BE AWESOME!!!!! SO ADMIRE YOU!!! 🙂
Stephanie -I feel like I’ve been given a gift! Thank you for this list. I LOVE picture and children’s chapter books–maybe even more than my children do. Ha. My older kids have outgrown them, so thank The Lord I still have 3 little ones coming up that still enjoy them.
We just finished Charlotte’s Web with my 6 year old and are now on to James Herriot’s treasury. Then probably Wind in the Willows. Some of my faves:
100 Hungry Ants
Ruth Heller parts of speech books. Very colorful art!
Exodus and Joseph books by…..I forget the author’s name. Also colorful art.
The Cat in Numberland
100 dresses. (I love this book.)
The Little House. ( I AM that little house. One of my very favorites.)
Blessings to you during your run!
elma -We have that one:) Love it!!
elisa-My 7 year old son would probably like the pirate books. Good for Annie for reading. We are bookaholics over here.
Laura Conway -We have been huge fans of Skippyjon Jones in our house!
Michelle from Australia -Our Beloved American friend is a retired children’s librarian. So for Christmas and each of our kids birthdays, American childrens books arrived. My son absolutely loves the If you give a mouse…. and the If you give a moose books by Laura Numeroff. AND even better, when he takes them to school for show an tell, no one here knows anything about them so he feels extra special!!
Larissa -I love The Little House…I can still remember my mother reading Chicken Soup with Rice to Me….wish I could find my copy of that one.
Jenny -Anything by Oliver Jeffers. “Stuck” is our favorite.
Courtney Walsh-We love so many of the same ones, but I have to add two all-time faves: “When Moon Fell Down” by Linda Smith (who passed away–I’m not sure the book is even available anymore, but it’s BEAUTIFUL and sweet) and “The Remarkable Farkle McBride” by Jon Lithgow.
Brilliance. 🙂
Diane -Have you guys ever read Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus? HYSTERICAL!
Skippy Jon Jones books are fun too. Our family highly recommends these!
Heather Simnitt -My girls are past this age now, but we loved the “Diary of a…” books as well. Some of my favorite children’s book authors are Sarah Stewart (The Gardner brings me to tears), Mary Ann Hoberman (The Seven Silly Eaters was a fave), and Erin Dealy (Goldilocks has Chicken Pox – Love)!
And oh – ALL my kids and my students (K-2 grade) have LOVED Slugs in Love by Susan Pearson….there is usually a waiting list for it at the library!
jen-Great list! i spied a few of our favorites there!
I love the Berenstein Bears books. we read those all the times – they get into messes as all other families do but by the end the message is always the same – family is awesome! and there are always little life lessons in there too.
Amanda - Small Home Big Start-I have a kid’s birthday party to go to this weekend and I always like to include a new book in with the gift. I was just researching what to buy when I saw this post pop up in my reader. Perfect! Exactly the advice that I needed.
I’m going to bookmark this one for future gift ideas. Thanks for sharing!
Jody -Thank you for this list!! I love love to get new ideas for books!!!
I went right to my library site & reserved a bunch of them!!
We love “Yes Day” in our house & actually have our boys pick a yes day every year! they of course love it! (but when is Mom & Dad’s yes day?!)
My fav is “Henry in Love”. Very sweet book. by Peter McCarty.
Becky-The Moose is totally my favorite of the If You Give A… series, too!
With a house full of girls around these parts, we can’t get enough of Fancy Nancy either!
Enjoy your race! So inspired by your faithfulness in training.
Deb -Don’t miss all of the “Skippyjon Jones” books – our favorite is “S.J. in Mummy Trouble.” And a really neat one called “Anna’s Table,” about the nature items a young girl collects and displays on a special table. Great illustrations! And anything illustrated by Robin Priess Glasser (of Fancy Nancy fame) – she has a great one about the 50 states, I THINK written by Lynn Cheney. Happy reading!
Lynn - Congratulations and many blessings to you and your family. Your daughter Lauren has such a God blessed sweet spirit. Kudos to you as parents.
TAB - What a lovely party, lovely family and lovely grad. She’s beautiful.
Heidi - Beautiful post all-around. Our family recently drove 8 hours round trip (with two small kids) to attend a family graduation and we were so glad we did!
Rhonda Quaney - She is such a beauty. I can just feel her gentleness from here. Had to pray for your sweet girl. And every party should definitely have a baby. Your graduation party was complete with love, darling-ness, ….and the baby. Thanks for sharing it all.
Barbara (WA) - What a special day beautifully done! Time flies (my sons are in their 30’s now). Have a great after the big event weekend!
http://northislandcottage.blogspot.com/
Kat - I got all teary seeing Lauren so grown up, so I can only imagine how you feel.
What a gorgeous girl.
You have inspired me with your potted colour everywhere. So many beautiful flowers and I adore the pots.
Simple but oh so effective. One of those things that I often think I must do but rarely get around to.
We need some pops of colour on our deck as it is autumn and soon to be winter here in Aus.
It looked like a beautiful, colourful party, full of love.
Whitney - Love your patio, I want those benches!
Second- I cannot believe how grown up Lauren is! Gorgeous girl! I wish she let you tell us more about her life… so happy for you all, the party looked wonderful. Best wishes for Lauren in the future!
Angie - Congrats to Lauren! What a huge moment in all your lives
The party looked amazing. Your rainbow cake turned out just perfect
Wishing Lauren a future full of blessings 🙂
Bree - Congratulations to your daughter and to you all! Prayers for her transition into this new season of life. On another note-new pictures for the shop- yellow daisy picture, flowers with the green chair, and the fabulous yellow chick in the Barbie car! Love it! Happy and blessed week to you.
Barbara - Congratulations HS so many memories made in those short four years, love the patio all of it!
Kayla - Lauren, you are beautiful. You look so happy in your pictures! Congratulations on your graduation. Thanks for letting us get a glimpse of your life….we don’t see you enough on your mom’s blog. Can’t wait to see what the future holds for you!
Rach - I never knew until I became a parent how emotional all of our children’s milestones are on us as the parents. Our eldest is just finishing her first year in pre-school next week (which I am sure seems like so long ago for you after watching your eldest just graduate from high-school) and I find myself filled with heartache at the passing of such a milestone in her life. There will be so many more of these end of the school year events in her life and with each I will shed a tear as I watch her grow and thrive and get one step closer to leaving our home to become her own person and start her own life. Congratulations Meg on raising a wonderful young woman. May she only continue to thrive and grow outside the shelter of your heart and home.
elisa - I love the pic with your daughter surrounded with older women on the porch. We all need older women to look up too and help shape us.
Flower Patch Farmgirl - She did it!!!!! I remember my HS grad and party like it was YESTERDAY. Weird??
Your party was awesome. You looked so pretty. Lauren, too.
I’m glad your people showed up for you. 🙂
Hope you all felt way loved.
And I was going to tell you that I’m probably going to steal your bunting idea but I figured it was waterproof. Since it’s not, I’m extra-on it!
Valerie @ Chateau a la mode - Congrats to your beautiful Lauren!
Tracy - Congratulations to Lauren and your whole family! Next year we will be celebrating my oldest’s high school graduation. I can’t believe it! Where has the time gone??
Where has Lauren decided to go to school? I’m in KC and went to KU. My husband went to Missouri. My son is leaning toward Mizzou 🙁 I feel the same way about K-State as you do!!
BTW I love your blog!
chrissi - congrats to lauren. what a wonderful circle of family and friends that came to show their love for such a pretty girl. (congrats to mom and dad too for getting through a graduation day/party.)
Lisa - Such a big deal having a child graduate high school! Congratulations to both of you!
Lori Austin - Congrats to Lauren (btw, she is so beautiful!).
Looks like a wonderful celebration with family.
You bright, fun patio is fantastic.
Container flowers turned out beautiful as well.
Rachel Reeves - It looked special and sweet, Meg.
A day that she won’t soon forget.
susan - Congratulations to Lauren! Love to read about FAMILY gatherings. Memories
to keep forever.
Meg, you have a beautiful family. Blessed by your writing.
Carol S. - It all looks wonderful. Congrats to you and your family. Good things are coming next! Freshman college son just home now and we are enjoying a “new and improved” version of him. After a year of independence, he seems engaged and appreciates of home and our family. Yay! Gotta plant more large buckets of flowers and get some festive bunting…fantastic inspiration pics. Awesome patio.
Tiffany - This makes me happy. I’m so glad you have such fantastic family and friends around you. What a blessing. (And your place looks SUPER cute!) (AND, Martha has nothing on you.)
Amy - I just love everything about you. (As much as I can know from reading your blog for the last four+ years) Except the fact that you don’t love K-State. Oh well. No one is perfect. 🙂
Just kidding.
Congratulations!! The party looks amazing! Your family is beautiful!
Dawn Gross - Congratulations! That’s a big milestone.
Your house looks super cute – patio is lovely.
Glad you all are safe & sound.
Dawn
dmg314
Mac - Congratulations to Lauren and your family on her graduation. Your rainbow cake which I saw on the Poppytalk blog a couple of years ago is what inspired me to start following your blog. It certainly is a great symbol for your happy, optimistic but always realistic blog which I continue to enjoy every morning once my 4 children are off to school.
Kristin S - Beautiful!
misty - congratulations lauren!!! I have been following your blog since july of 2008 & it doesn’t seem possible that your lauren is graduating!
love your seating area & those striped cushions. what a fun party. I alway associate a rainbow cake with you meg! not martha! i think martha must have ppl reading your blog to find out what’s cool 😉
stay safe from this crazy weather! we have been taking cover & praying.
elma - What a wonderful party!! Congratulations to Lauren may the Lord be with her and Bless her!!
The Domestic Fringe - Congrats to your daughter! Looks like a fabulous party. Love the cake.
~FringeGirl
vicki - You, my darling, can make anywhere feel like a home. What a lovely way to go through life. Your daughter is breathtaking. Congratulations family. And friends. And family friends. I firmly believe it takes a village….congratulations village…what a lovely woman you have all raised. Happy summer to you and your dear family. Good luck young lady on what lies ahead.
Pat - congratulations to Lauren on her big day! I must say, that yard looked like the perfect place for a party. I’m a little jealous, wished that was my happy patio!! You guys did an amazing job!
Alicia @ La Famille - congrats to your little girl!!! and your pictures are so happy! glad the weather held up for you. 🙂
Kimberlee Jost - Beautiful.
I am happy that Lauren feels loved, and that you do, too.
Georgia - Love the photos, lauren looks so grown up!
Good luck to her, college next?
I dont know how it works in the USA, as she would still be in 6th form, or college in the uk.. confusing! 🙂 x
Cindy in WA - Congrats to Lauren!!! My oldest is graduating in a few weeks too! Is she going to a local college or far away?
jerusalem - ok, now I am weepy too! I have a yellow glider like yours-it was my great-grandmothers and came here all the way from Mississippi. I love it and I love your little patio area.
Chantelle - Congrats to you all. Lauren is a beautiful girl! PS: love the cake!
Susan - Congratulations to your pretty daughter, Lauren. She will treasure this moment forever. Congratulations to you and your husband. These moments are bittersweet. However, she will still need you both and she will seek your counsel in the days and years to come. Then, one day, you will discover that not only do you love her but you like her! Those are precious moments also. From a mom who has already traveled that road, it seems that you did a GOOD JOB!
lisa currie-gurney - Congratulations to you and Craig.
You’ve done it.
God is good.
So good.
Hugs From My Heart
Katey - Congratulations to the Whole Family!!! My son graduated last year and I will have another one next year. It goes by way too fast!! It’s tough. Tough on everyone. Glad you had a nice party and loving memories of the day.
Terrie G - Congrats to Lauren & You & Craig!! You are so right…it is a big deal for the parents too!
I worried about all of the graduations going on with our crazy weather yesterday!
Glad that you were able to celebrate & all were safe.
LOVED the rainbow cake! And your home was decorated beautifully.
Lauren is growing up into quite a beautiful young lady!
And that baby!! I must say, I had to make sure I was reading your blog
when I saw the K-State onsie..but I thought it was the cutest outfit EVER!! Wink, Wink!!
Hope your week is relaxing!! 🙂
I’m off to buy flowers…well, maybe after this storm passes!
Can you believe I haven’t even purchased one yet this year!
Jennifer - So fun, a day she will remember forever!
sally - Awww, everything was beautiful…Lauren, you , family, flowers, just everything!! 🙂 I love having family get togethers like this at my home over a restaurant or other place any day!! 🙂
Ana - Congrats Lauren!!! Best Wishes for her in this brand new fase of her life. This is awesome. Congrats for you too Meg!! Beautiful party, flowers, cake and FAMILY.