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baby fix

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we got the rare opportunity to babysit for mr. levi.
rare because he has lots of family close by so he can always be watched by someone related.

but we got him.  
and it was so much fun for me and my girls to play dress up and baby with levi.

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sean started calling him Pee-vo.
 

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about three months ago i drew a baby for annie.
she went nuts for it.
she asks me every time i sit down near her projects to "make a baby".
sometimes she shouts and jumps "MAKE A BABY!!! MAKE A BABY!"  
(and i look at craig with "can we?" in my eyes….ha!!)

so i drew another baby and then annie colored it in.
that is baby levi…with a sippy cup and a book.

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annie fed him all his cereal and all his applesauce.


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babies love waffle.

i think everyone loves waffle….big dorky fur ball.

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i could squeeze this kid all day long!

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annie got out our board books and read to him her favorites.
shirts are not required for story time around here.

jess….ANYTIME.
we are always able to babysit.
if we are home…the answer is always yes.
      

   

***excellent and wonderful questions yesterday!
wow….i will have fun answering those!  thanks so much!!
 

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Melanie - Did you notice that Waffle is actually LAUGHING in the picture with the baby?? Too cute!
~Melanie
http://www.comfyhouse.blogspot.com

Kelly - love that cutie Levi! So fun when blogs “collide”. Great high chair!! Kelly

Alicia - Those are some sweet baby cheeks! Love it!

Melanie - I could eat him up! I love all those rolls.

alyssa - love annie’s tan lines. classic!

Jess Mead - Cute! Cute! Cute!

Juli - Seriously, what a sweet, mushy, chunka baby. How did you keep from kissing him long enough to hold the camera? Squeeze, kiss, run cheek against hair, smell…repeat.

Kara Janzen - Oh my! I’m so jealous you got to spend a day with Levi! Lucky you! Wish we were closer so we could see that precious boy more often! Hope your family is all doing well! Love keeping up with you on your blog.

ann - What a darling baby! Love those cute little chubby feet!! I can see how your family loves him and why!

katie - looks like another baby would fit right in πŸ˜‰

Vera - Levi is scrumptious!!
Okay, this might be a sign that I blog-stalk you too much… I saw that picture of the globes that you just posted in the Pottery Barn catalog last night and thought of you!

Rachel / cREaTe - laughing at the “can we” eyes. πŸ™‚ ha ha love it. and levi is a little heartbreaker!!!!!

Sarah - Hi Meg! I am new to your blog but LOVE LOVE LOVE IT! Found out about it through Matthew Meads Flea Market Issue (he is local to us in NH and I adore him)…I am a mom of 4 ranging in age 13-2 and we are going to be stealing some of your ideas for our very old, but charming New Englander.
Just wanted you to know this 36 year old Mom is finding much inspiration out of your blog and has passed it along to many friends. I have been pouring my early morning coffee and sitting down to you every few days πŸ™‚
Sarah

Stefanie - had no idea you and Jess are friends, so when I popped over to read your post, I was like “its Levi Mac!” πŸ™‚ Too funny. He is stinkin’ adorable.

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - Cutie patootie!

Kacey - Levi is adorable! I miss babies in my house!

shelley c - Levi is sooo cute! I’m hoping he and Miss Mercy meet up at KSU in the future! πŸ™‚

Lanny Stanard - Hey when did Annie get tattoo’s ? hugs!

sara's art house - What a cutie! I love Annie’s little outfit.

RLG - I want another one, too (conspiratorial smile). Levi looks so happy with your family. Must make his mama feel good to have so many to love on him. xoxo

Jodi - I want a baby Levi too. He’s just too precious.

Lynn - Oh wow, is he adorable! Thanks for sharing that, it put a big smile on my face. πŸ™‚

Heather @ Cookie Mondays - awwww!!
On Monday I was looking thru your September ’08 archives (cause I’ve been meaning to post your Best Ever Chocolate Recipe for 2 days now!), so of course I came across Cora’s photo shoot again.
I think she was just about the age Levi is now, and they look so much alike!!
So special that you got to hang out with him πŸ™‚

Tere - oooooooohhhhhhh, I want a baby too. But I already have 4. And I’m divorced. And I’m 44. Odds aren’t in my favor πŸ™‚
BUT enough about me, great pictures. Levi is a doll baby. You could just squeeze him! And nice drawings on your belly Annie πŸ™‚

Amanda - WELL, maybe we should get our boxing gloves out and we’ll just have to have a little match for the next time Levi’s fam can’t watch him!! Haha, just kidding! Looks like he got lots of love at your house!

Chris - OMG that baby is adorable. Great pics!!

Robyn - I keep up with her blog since I heard about Cora…I continue to read her blog because Levi is SO DARN CUTE! My youngest is almost 9, but he was chunk-syle, like Levi….I just want to grab that baby and eat his chubby legs, you guys are so lucky to get to have him around πŸ™‚
I always enjoy your blog, although I probably shouldn’t be reading while pretending to work πŸ™‚
Robyn from Texas

sarah - How FUN!
Super adorable. I love how much annie seems to adore him πŸ™‚
and his excitement over waffle.

amy jupin - too cute for words.
the rolls, the chub, the grins…
officially glad john is on travel this week!

jenni@talkinghairdryer - The “make a baby” chant had me cracking up!

purejoy - so adorable. i think waffles likes babies too. your dorky dog smiles all the time.
my ovaries ache. and i thought they were all dried up like discarded craisins.

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - He’s a doll and I loved the little baby you drew for Annie. I haven’t held a baby in so long. There seriously is a chemical reaction that happens when you smell them in and feel their soft chubby skin. I’m almost getting my fix just reading your post. Loved it!

kat - Levi is so cute! I have enjoyed seeing him grow over the last few months on Jess’ blog. Your kids look adorable playing with him. I think it’s hilarious that Waffle always seems to be smiling when he has his picture taken. Love all of it!

heidi @ wonder woman wannabe - So sweet!! We had some good friends that used to live in the area when our eldest was just a baby. – Their kids are older and they absolutely loved to have him come over so they could fawn over him. Even though my sweetie is now 5, our friends will still refer to him as ‘baby’ Owen because that’s just how they remember him. πŸ™‚

Chaos-Jamie - I saw that baby drawing and thought “Dang, she is talented. She draws just like her mom used to…” HA! Glad you clarified.

katie - i love that dof of yours!!! he is sso stinkin cute!! so is mr. levi,,,, he is so squishy!!!

Celia - Oh my goodness. This baby is so cute…. I think we’ll start trying for #2….. hahahaha! Adorable!

angie128 - I. Love. That. Dog.
And he totally smiles for the pictures. Which completely cracks me up.

Rebecca - what kind of dog is waffle? love him! the hubs and i have been discussing adding another dog so our sweet Jazz can have a friend.

Julie - He is very cute! It’s not me who needs a baby fix every-now-and-then ~ my kids do! They want another sibling and they’re not going to get one, so yes, they need a baby fix every now and then. Mr. Levi would do just fine ~ he seems so cute and content!!! Sweet baby!

cindy mandernach - that wicker high chair is amazing!!!!!! is it antique??? he is a really cute baby and it looks like he won EVERYONE over..

Michelle - Australia - I saw the pic of Levi and thought Jess had posted some more Levi pics. Isn’t he A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E??? And then I realised Levi was on your website and not on The Macs. Lovely to see him and it looks like you ALL had a wonderful time.

Gemma @ Musings of a gem - So cute and very squeezable!!! Waffle looks like he’s smiling for the camera πŸ™‚
Gemma x

Kat - PPS How old is Levi?

Kat - He is so cute my ovaries hurt!
Our baby is now 20 months and usually I am pregnant already with the next bub, so it is very strange to not be having another πŸ™
We have four and are already run off our feet.
Plus my baby still does not sleep through the night at 20 months, so I am completely exhausted every day.
Otherwise I “may” consider just one more πŸ˜‰
Looks like he was enjoyed by your entire family. (even Waffle!)
Cute, cute, cute!
Ps what was Craig’s answer to the “can we?” question?

Nikki - Levi is so cute! My kids love babysitting their little cousins… it’s nice to have litlle ones around the house… BUT it’s also nice to hand them back tired and over stimulated πŸ˜‰

Dana@Bungalow'56 - Megan,
I always forget how much the older kids love having a baby around. We haven’t been around an itty bitty one for a long time and my seven year old is missing out. I will be off to find some poor mother off the street who looks haggard and undoubtedly needs a rest. ~The Bungalow’s to the rescue~ Thanks for the post, this has really got me thinking.
Dana

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$6 well spent

dave bought two tarps at costco and a bottle of tear-free baby shampoo.
 
he and craig taped the tarps together, turned on the hose and we had an instant homemade
 
SUPER SIZED slip n' slide!

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everyone used the shampoo on their fronts to be more slippery….IT WAS AWESOME!

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it came more natural to some of the kids.
and frustrating to others.
 

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we finally had to bribe them….one dollar for any kid who can make it to the end.
 

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it was really far.
but suddenly everyone was out on the hill and had won their dollar.
 

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we called lauren outside.
i told her if she would do it…..then i would do it.
she said "if you do and i do….then jenny has to do it too"
and she added "NO PICTURES"
deal.


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no pictures of lauren….i was fine with it.
and jenny is always fun.
 

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dave took some video.
i adore it.
he is shouting "DOLLAR!!!" and everyone is so happy.
 

           


that night i uploaded my pictures from the day onto the laptop.
i started clicking through them and others joined me in looking through.
then we got to craig's pics of ME going for me first time.
everyone is looking and i started clicking faster trying to move them OFF of ME.

and i am not kidding….there were 38 pictures in a row.
he caught every split second of it.
i had it on action setting and he just held down the button.

i was screaming with hysterical laughter as i kept clicking and clicking trying to get to a cute kid
instead of ME in my MOM suit….RUNNING.
i kept yelling "NO! OH NO!!!"
we were watching a slow motion movie with way too much detail on full screen….yikes.

it was very very funny.

so last night i highlighted them all to delete them….and then i thought….
it WOULD be funny to make a movie of them.
i am over the embarrassment of it and just think it's funny now.

and now….without furthur ado….
6 seconds of embarrassment.

i was sore the next day.
it's not really meant for grown ups….but it really was fun.

shelly@familyblt - I love everything about this post. Such a good idea for fun!

Melanie - Meg, you are so much fun! We just love you for it.

Amy Bogan Griffin - You are soooo AWESOME!!! Thanks for showing us!!!!

Quinn - I love, love, LOVE when bloggers post videos… it’s like seeing their photos come to life. Almost surreal, almost as if you guys are suddenly more real then I always thought you were. Anyways, looks like tons of fun. I think I might put this on my list to do this summer.. hm.
Hope you guys are doing well. πŸ™‚

Lia - that is the COOLEST thing ever. i wanna do it!!!

Alisha Mancinas - YOU. ARE. AMAZING! I wanted to email you the other day, to show you some rainbow soap I came across on etsy or something, but my mac wouldn’t let me because I use gmail, and when I click on the e-mail me link on your blog, my comp wanted to use it’s email program. It was frustrating. πŸ™‚

julia - these are mom suits???? I have three very similar to yours. why didn’t anyone tell me???

Chicago jen - Great post! Not enough pictures of Dave though. Lol about the pic of you!

heidi @ wonder woman wannabe - Oh-so-awesome! I love that everyone participated – your still shot video is such a hoot with the added soundtrack! What a good sport you are!

tami - thats fun!!!!

Joanna @ The Casa - Love the video! You are such a fun mom!

jennibell - Sorry. . .meant Craig. . .

jennibell - The video was so much fun. But really, your picture of Dave was the BEST. . .what great memories.

Garner6389 - The baby shampoo is a great idea.We have something in common.We get Migraines.Not sure if thats good or not!!!!!

Vera - Love it! I’m so crabby in the middle of the night – with a headache and all the kids somehow piled in MY bed – but your post made me laugh. Thanks!

Carey - You’re such a champ, Meg. I love your candor and authenticity. I love that you write about being crabby one day and then bounce back with this happy snapshot of your vacation on the next. I have four children that are 5 and under, so I’m well acquainted with “so crabby,” but I know your joy of being of mama, too. So glad to “know” you and your family through your blog.

Liz@HoosierHomemade - I loved seeing the pics. We made a slip n’ slide last year, and the boys loved it. We bought one this year because youngest son was having some friends over for his bday, it lasted 1 day…geez!
Looks like a great family time was had by all!
~Liz

Genn - THAT looks like some serious FUN!!I will have to remember this grand $6 idea.
Loved the videos too, made me feel like I was there. And you look so cute in your swimsuit! Very stylish.

jody - LOVE this! You are so real, so fun!! Thanks! xo

The Lady of the House - You GO Girl! I’m proud of ya! I would of had the gutts to do it!
This post made my heart = )
Stop by my blog and sign up for the giveaway!
Happy Week,
The Lady of the House

Staci Danford - There is nothing more fun than a real live smile… I wanted to go outside and make one myself to see if I could have that much fun.. LOVED it.. Thanks for the grin.
Staci

JustMommer - Wow! Annie made that look easy, hooray for the Moms for going for it!

DreamGirlLisa - Oh sooo great!! My kids made their own slip-n-slide on 4th of July, but I didn’t do it…lol, you are brave sista!!!! Fun to watch the video, I have a smile on my face now πŸ™‚

Allyssa W. - ha! ha! ha!! That was too cute and so funny! Thanks for sharing!

Martina - wooow GREAT idea!

Ashli - You rock!!! Your kids will love looking back on that day and see you having such fun.

Jess Mead - Very creative! I LOVE IT!!!!!

Monica Huete - It looks like you all had a great time !!! Sooooo fun !!! … ^__^

DeeDee - Why is it that your slip and slide ends like this and my family slip and slide adventure ends with a 9 hour trip to the ER for a hubby with a dislocated shoulder?…Whatever!
I love your gusto!
Great Stuff!

Kimberlee J. - My first thoughts were…will she? Will she show the pictures of her going down the slippy slide? No she won’t. SHE WHAT? She posts a photo collage video? You rocked that so hard. Awesome.

Jessie - That was awesome Meg! Loved that you did it too!!

Rachel / cREaTe - love your lil’ video. πŸ™‚ love that the camera was on that setting & you had that many photos! HILARE! and the kids! i’m dying laughing at the thought of all that. πŸ™‚

Sandy - Great fun! That looks like a wonderful time…must tell my sister about it for her kids and the hill in her backyard!
Not to sound stalkerish but, if I were you, I’d totally have that picture of Craig in a frame next to my bed. You’ve got a looker there, girl! πŸ™‚

tara pollard pakosta - so fuN!
and your kids will LOVE that video of you one day!
showing you were there and present and a FUN MOM!
tara

Jaime @ Mamarazzi - Meg… what a great post and a wonderful idea for the slip and slide. If only we had “hills” here! lol…
I guess with enough water, baby shampoo and plastic, one could fly eve if horizontal! πŸ˜€ Might need to try that!
Love the video! πŸ˜€ Too cute!!

Juli - more = my. Sorry, I’m tired, been teaching VBS all morning!

Lori - What an awesome idea! And your video is too because you are such a good sport to share it. So funny, you know how to make me laugh out loud at my computer almost every day!

Juli - Slip ‘n Slides were way more fun before we had boobs, weren’t they? My best friend & I “bought one for our kids” (that’s more story, stickin’ to it) when they were toddlers. We were SO sore the next day! I’m sure it didn’t help that we were still nursing!

traci in virginia - How fun was that!!!? Thanks for sharing! You are a great Mom and make me smile!!! I am a widow with two kids and I try to make sure my kids are having fun! Your blog is so helpul for that! Thanks so much for all you share!

angela - I loved this! Love the homemade slide. Love that Lauren said no pics….so typical. That’s what I like. You all are so typical. Love your family! Can you do that? Can you love a family you don’t know?

marie tere - I think looking at the videos makes that crabby face smile. And I am so quick to delete pictures of me. But then think, that’s who I am and that’s who my kids will remember in years to come. Love the idea, must look for hill πŸ™‚

Staci - LOVE it!!!!!!!!!

jennifer - You guys have gotta be the coolest family in the history… of well, EVER! I love it! What a super fun day! (We’ve gotta try it!!!!!)

Tiffany - We have also done this! FUN!!!….way to go for posting pics of yourself slipin’ & slidin’!

Lisa - You guys are too funny.

tara - the picture of your husband coming down the slide is priceless…you need to frame it.
the video was hilarious.

Ashley Stinson @ The Hillside Home - this looks like a BLAST. i dream about times like these with my kids someday. (right now i only have 1 little guy… but i dream about a house full like you.) great pics! and great idea for a cheap slip and slide. πŸ™‚

AmyB - Ha ha. Awesome.
Looks like so much fun!!

sarah - SO fun!
I love that shot of Jenny, pure happiness.

Heather R. - L to the O to the V to the E…the super size slip and slide. AWESOME!!! You in the Batman pose on it. AWESOMER!!!
That is great. ~Heather R.

Tricia - Okay. SO much to say. The slip ‘n slide is awesome! My kids (and the neighbor kids) just watched your video and now they are outside plotting where we should put OUR giant slip ‘n slide. πŸ˜‰
Secondly, you rock my socks! I’m so glad that you had a fantastic vaca. I’m also very glad that you shared the highlights with us.

Keri ~ Forever Folding Laundry - SO fun!!! Those are the types of slip-n-slides my dad made us as kids, but we never took it to the shampoo level of awesomeness. πŸ™‚ Money SO well spent!!
And good for you for posting your video. Totally fun!!
~Keri

jill - OH MY GOSH! HOW HYSTERICALLY HAPPY I WAS TO GET YOUR COMMENT ON MY BLOG!!! I HAVE BEEN A HUGE FAN FOR SO LONG – LOVE THE PICS OF YOUR LIFE! WE HAVE TWO GOLDENDOODLES SO ALWAYS SHOW THE KIDS PICS OF WAFFLE. YES, I LOVE KASEY AND WE HAVE BECOME FRIENDS BECAUSE OF BLOGGING – HOW AWESOME IS THAT? US MIDWEST GIRLS MUST STICK TOGETHER, YA KNOW! SO….THANKS SO MUCH FOR THE VISIT, YOU MUST STOP BY AGAIN…NICE TO ‘MEET’ YA!
XO~JILL

Charity - So fabulous!! What an awesome way to spend an afternoon – thanks for the idea!

Krista - Love you and your mom suit, that was awesome!! Who knew 2 tarps and some shampoo could be so much fun? Love Scott’s “I’m awesome” at the end of his ride. Thanks for sharing. Gosh it looks like it was a lot of fun!

alamama - very cute! loved seeing this in the morning! glad to see a happy face on you!

Susan - I absolutely love this idea. How smart. The regular slip-n-slides are way to short anyway. Yours works well, but it looks like you have a little bit of a down slope. I bet it would be great for innertubing down in the snow too. Awesome idea. I’m heading to Home Depot.

Megan - This is so awesome, how fun! I think everyone got more than a dollar right? Great idea and love the price tag!

Nicole Q. - You are such a good sport . . . i think that’s one thing that makes you a great momma!!!
You had the perfect place to put that thing too — we used to do that for youth group events. Crazy fun!!

Sara @ It's Good to be Queen - that video is happy. πŸ™‚

Dina - You make me laugh! Your blog and my coffee are the best two things of my morning:-)

Kelly - That is awesome! My parents have a huge hill at their house and we were trying to convince them to let us do this on their hill. So far it’s a no go but maybe if I show them this they’ll change their minds.

Elizabeth McDonald - Awesome….that is all I can say…AWESOME!

Niki - What a blast! You guys are such fun parents! And your swimsuit is a CUTE mom suit!

amy - I LOVE it, that’s awesome!

Kelly - I absolutely loved your post. What makes it so fun is your participation. It’s nice to see you in it once in a while! I love the yelling “Dollar, dollar! You’ve got a buck!” You guys are so much fun. Your kids are going to have the best memories and stories to tell later on!

Cate O'Malley - love the idea – even better that everyone can have a blast in their own backyard without spending a fortune – great memories!

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - Oh that looks like some good ole’ fashioned fun. You are so cute slidin’ down the tarp..4 seconds just wasn’t enough. I wanted to hear you talk:)

jess - you rock!!!!! how could you not go down that great slip-n slide!!!!!

Shann - Those are such good pictures Meg! It looks like you had such a good time with your best friends up here in Michigan. I remember doing a slip-in-slide a few years ago. You are right…it is a bit harder for us moms. πŸ™‚ Your swim suit is really cute by the way! Have a good Monday! πŸ™‚

jackie - Looks like you all had a great time. We had friends that had a gigantic piece of rubber that you make inner tubes from, and they did the same thing. They put it down, kept the sprinkler running over it, and baby shampooed, and baby oiled it up, and the kids had a Blast!! It is so hot here too. 100’s w/ the heat index everyday. What a way to stay cool, and I bet you were sore. Have a great week. Jackie

Barb - When you look up “good sport” in the dictionary, there’s a picture of you! πŸ˜‰
Looks like it was a great time. What a fun person you are.

Meg B. - looks like fun, now to find a hill….

Gemma @ Musings of a gem - Great idea!! I bet your fronts were really sore after all that though.
Your family seem so fun : )
Gemma x

Michelle - Meg
When you started this blog, did you think you were going to change the world? Because that is what you are doing. God Bless you girl!! I live in Australia, I love your blog (I ‘met’ you through Cora’s Mum Jess) and I swear you make me a better Mum. I read your blog, I come up with ideas from what you write and my kids love them.
Thank you!

Nikki - should read… so much fun…. I should proof read my comments πŸ™‚

Nikki - That looks like so much.
Thanks for sharing the video…. made me lol πŸ˜€

Tammy - That looks like so much fun! Thanks for sharing the video of you!

Georgia - haha i love your video! its brilliant. The music made me crack up. You look lovely Meg, wouldnt even know you have had 5 kids!
YUou should post video’s of the family more often, its nice to see everyone in real time.
xx

Trish - how fun!!
and I love that you posted that video of you!

Tasha Griffin - Oh, how fun! We have had some good times on giant homemade slip and slides as well…baby shampoo is a MUCH better idea than baby oil like we used! Looks like you guys had a blast!

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - 4 seconds?! Hilarious!!! πŸ™‚

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other fun stuff to do in small towns in michigan.

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walk down the road to the Fluff & Suds for an ice cream treat.
(dave….i forgot to pay you back for this…sorry)


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go bowling on dollar bowling night.
 

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pick fruit.
we picked cherries and peaches.
 

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smiley face on her peach.

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we teased poor lauren stuck at a peach farm with her family saying "what are you texting?!"
"text: i am sitting on a stump in a peach orchard.  what r u doing?"
but she called me out with the dreaded "you text MORE than i do!"
true.

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go see a movie.
$5 tickets and .50 pop and .50 popcorn!!!
for a NEW movie….we saw Despicible Me.
the LOMA rocks!

but the best entertainment we found was something Dave brought with him.
it cost $6 total.
it deserves it's own post.
tomorrow.
  
  
 

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Biz - This is my first time reading your blog. I was introduced via Farmgirl Paints. I am amazed at this small world! I lived in Junction City/Manhattan/Ft.Riley,Kansas for 10ish years and my Dad’s family is all in Michigan near Grand Rapids! Where about in MI were ya’ll?

Melanie - Fun times.

Meg - Love the Loma! We almost went there last week, while we were on “OUR” beach!! But we never had a rain day!!
FYI for the past few years we have rented a house with those 220 stairs.. I feel your pain. I almost threw up the first time!!! But this year we got a house a little farther north and there were only 140 stairs!! SO Much easier!!

Rachel / cREaTe - so fun! absolutely love the pic of talby’s bite marks in the peach. πŸ™‚ very clever.

Lorilee - Love it! Simple FUN! I’ve picked peaches in south Texas in June. It was excruciatingly HOT and sticky. Anything outdoors in South Texas after May until October is pretty much HOT and sticky! haha!
Blessings,
Lorilee

Nicole Q. - So jealous on the fruit picking. When my parents lived in Portland we would go picking all the time with my mom. Such good memories!!

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - Meg, that looks so fun! Ok, if I promise to put the kids to bed next year, I can come, right?!

The Lady of the House - LOVE that first pic of the girls. and really? Fluff & Suds – genius name for a store!
Happy Summer – The Lady of the House

Staci - Awwwww πŸ™‚ Cliffhanger…I’ll tune in tomorrow to find out what it is!!!!!

Ashley Stinson @ The Hillside Home - love how lauren has the cell in her hand even in the family picture! hahaha…. reminds me of my brothers (i have 2 teenage brothers that live with my husband, baby and i). we will go on family vacay’s and the cell phones are always present…. even at the campfire! great pics. looks like you all are having a blast. πŸ™‚

kerri b. - Looks like fun! We live in Northern MI and I was surprised to see you vacationing here πŸ™‚ I was wondering if you are renting a house?! We were thinking about renting one for next summer in the UP (a real adventure and an extra long drive for you)but maybe St. Joe would be good to! Hope you are having a relaxing time in MI, sometimes you forget how beautiful a place is when you already live there! Love the kids crafts…keep ’em coming!

Beth W. from Dirty Laundry - mmm, the peaches look yummy, and I can’t wait to see what Dave brought!

MommaH - Love the picture of the kids on the bench. So “Doin’ their own thing”. You are a really good photographer.

Molly - Scott and Annie are adorable together!

Tammy - a lot of fun stuff going on there!!
I wish we had a cheap movie theater- the last one cost $118 for 5 of us and popcorn and shared sodas!

Cmjcbaldwin.wordpress.com - We love to pick fruit and then make it into the yummiest jam ever!-Meg

Marina - hi!
I’m from Brazil, have no idea how I found you blog, but fell in love with it!!
You’re a lot like my own mom, and that’s is the best compliment I can give!
And I love your recepies! Will try some of them soon! Rainbow cake will be the first!
Marina
http://doceconfissao.wordpress.com/

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - Good ol’ fashioned fun:) I love small towns. We saw that movie last weekend. Pretty cute. I love Lauren’s comeback. I can’t believe I’ve become one of those texting crazy people. Weird!

Rachel - what a great time and cannot beat those movie prices. Love your blog!!

Alicia Butler - Where exactly did you go? I am with Dana. You are making me want to try Michigan next year πŸ™‚

Julie - Nothing beats good, clean, CHEAP, fun!

Holly - DOnt you love having a teenager! Our oldest just turned 13 and I am hoping we still have a couple of years before we have to force family fun on her,lol!

Jen - 50 cent soda and popcorn!!! I didn’t think that was possible other than at home. WOW. I love Michigan.

Danielle - I love lauren’s sandals from the orchard pics!

LouBoo - Hi – this looks great – love the low-level easy stuff that keeps most of the family happy! I especially like the shot of them walking away in amongst the peach trees. Lucky you to have the climate! This post reminds me of my American friend from Indiana…not sure why…just simple pleasures I guess. Lou x

Gemma - It really is the simple things that make a holiday great!!
Love Gemma x

heidi @ wonder woman wannabe - You’ve captured some great moments!
That peach photo just made me smile! πŸ˜‰

Dana @ Bungalow 56 - Megan,
It just looks like an all around great vacation. Loved the picnic table shot, it captures the kids perfectly. Boy would I love to take my kids to a movie for $5, that would be unbelievable. And popcorn for .50. I think we may need to go to Michigan for our next holiday. Michigan State Tourism should hire you as a spokesperson : )
Dana

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why michigan?

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the view to my left….

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and to my right.

it is empty here.
beach for miles and miles.
and we are always alone.
i love being alone.
with 10 people.


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a mere 223 steep stairs down to get to the beach.
wow.
the first time back up on saturday…i thought i possibly was having a minor heart attack.
(is it possible to have a
minor heart attack? probably not)

and my calves were on fire!
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no one but dave would allow this.
he is a very cool dad.


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craig found me one…first thing.
auuuuwwww.
he is a keeper.

jen and i cooked dinner every night but one.
afterwards on this night we had a fire on the bluff…at the top of those 223 stairs.
as in RIGHT BEHIND me is a cliff.
i am so glad we don't have any babies toddling around anymore…my heart couldn't take it.
it was already worn out from the stair master workout!

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lauren learned the way to make a perfect s'more while at camp in colorado.
she gave us all demonstration.
it was cute.
 


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the yard was amazing.

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they bought a Nikon.
they must have not wanted me to borrow any of their lens or things…..

and it had video!!
i was jealous.

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i mean really…..what is better than s'mores in hannah montana jammies on a lake at sunset?

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we stayed till it got dark.

jen and i struck a deal with our men - 
in exchange for them going golfing THREE mornings they had to put the kids to bed ALL week.
totally worth it.
i really do not like bedtime and little kids.

AND this trip we put ALL the kids (except lauren) in ONE room.
they had two queen beds and then two twin mattresses on the floor.
memory making is what i call that!
 

Susan - Hey there! I found your blog a long time ago. It’s funny because you live near my old hometown, (Wichita) and I’m in Chicago (where you lived for a while, right?). I noticed on your post about Chicago Jen that you went to a church in Glenview, which is also a small world because my husband is from Glenview and his parents still live there (he’s a football coach at GBS). ANYWAY, we are trying to plan a vacation to Stevensville with my sister and we wondered where you found your rental! Any info would be great! Thanks!
Susan
http://www.reigningitin.blogspot.com

Shelly Primm - i am curious as to what is the perfect smore? maybe lauren could “guest” blog! your pictures are beautiful.

carin - michigan totally rocks.
πŸ™‚

Megan - I just found your blog and had to comment as soon as I saw the heart rock. My mom collects them and found a couple recently in Michigan. She has a TON of them.

Carol - Glad you had a nice vacation, but those stairs!? I don’t think so, unless there was a chair lift!

Denissa - How beautiful! I would have never known that there are beaches like that in Mich. I guess that I always think of it being freezing and snowy there πŸ™‚
What wonderful memories πŸ™‚

jaz - Oh I LOVE alone beaches. I was just in Washington and made my way to La Push Beach – um, yeah, was not alone… surrounded by crazed twilight fans with cameras in hand – CA-RAAAAZY!!!

Sandy - Looks like great fun and wonderful memories. Lauren should be a model. Seriously.

Talysa - I’m with you on the bedtime with kiddos thing. They resist…I get irritable.
Looks like you had a great time there.
How on Earth did you get all those kids to actually go to sleep though? I imagine a lot of giggling in the dark.

shelly@familyblt - Yowza, looks like so much fun!

Ashley Stinson @ The Hillside Home - looks fun. i am in major need of a vacay. love your pics as always. πŸ™‚

Penny - You captured Michigan. Your pictures remind me so much of my childhood vacations and the ones we have taken with our girls! Michigan truly is a paradise in the summer. I am not such a fan of the winter. (Beautiful from inside looking out). Glad you all had a great time.
Did you rent a place? I’d be interested in where.

Genn - Hi Meg! Thanks for the comment on my blog! Now I am not just your blog stalker anymore. Now we’re friends. πŸ™‚
I’ve been to Michigan one time for a wedding when my oldest was just a baby and it was so beautiul. Humid (and made my curly hair look hideous) but it was beautiful. Love the empty beach pictures. What a great time.

Holly - It looks like yall had alot of fun! I was wondering how many hotel rooms yall have to get when you go places,lol. I am thinking we may need at least 2 since there are 6 of us now!

dani - Want an awesome smore? Try using a peanut butter cup instead of plain ol’ chocolate!

candace - looks like a fabulous rest of the trip – just relaxing. did you guys drink margaritas while the men were putting the kids to bed?
p.s. i hope i look as cute/great as you after i’ve had five kids!

Alison - We were in Michigan last weekend too! We went to South Haven for the day, my Sister lives in Kalamazoo. I LOVE Michigan beaches. It’s only a 4 hour drive for me, but I hope to move close to my Sissy someday(if I can find a job….in Michigan…blah). Love your pictures!

Sally H. - SMAAAART Women – the bedtime vs golf deal was a good one. I would much rather sit back with a beer and relax while the hubbies put down the kids too! Congrats on a great trip.

Heather - I mean where IN michigan…I know where it is…lol

Heather - where is Michigan were you? my Grandfather has a cottage on Lake Huron with a similar amount stairs! Last time i was there i was about 10 so the stairs were easier to do.

colleen - I live in upstate NY and my kids are suddenly begging to go to Michigan! We have been bombarded with Michigan commercials this summer (probably on HGTV)!! It does look beautiful!

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - Oh so fun. Nothing beats smores, and on a beach…cool!!! What fun memories for the kiddos..all sleeping in one room. They’ll always remember that.
Smart bartering with the men.
I’m thinkin’ a trip to Michigan should be in our future. Beautiful!

chasity - it’s so beautiful there.
i just had to leave a note saying~
i nearly went wacky when i was browsing through my new flea market style magazine and boom! there was little annie jumping off her bed.
congratulations!
that’s awesome.
have a wonderful wonderful day~
chasity

sandy toe - that is one great deal-
sandy toe

Kristen Houston - Where in Michigan is this? We go to Holland and LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it! Great family spot!

Jen - We lived in Grand Rapids for 10 years. I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED it and I miss it terribly. We camped at Lake Michigan once–that was all the camping I could handle–but it was fun! Was the water cold??? Early summer on Lake Michigan can be chilly!
Looks like you had a great time!!!

Tonya @ More Than Enough - Looks amazing! Where in Michigan were you? My brother and his family live in Traverse City and it’s gorgeous up there!

deb meyers - Michigan vacation ads all over the TV over here in NH. Your blog posts beat the TV ads bigtime : )
deb meyers

Shannon - WOW your vacations have changed in 10 years! Remember when we went to “Up North” in Wisconsin and we all were at a cabin and you were shocked that I brought food to cook while we were there? I still remember you saying, “When we go on vacation I don’t cook.” as you all were heading out the door to go to the pizza place. I’m glad to see you had a great time enjoying each other — that’s a great vacation.

Juli - “Alone” w/ 10 favorite people looks vastly different than the days before in Chicago. Your big city photos made me hyperventilate (all those people, fast city)…stressful just to view them and I live in a city! Michigan looks more my speed.

Amber Ferrier - I am also lucky enough to live on a lake in Michigan. It gets such a bad rap sometimes but it is seriously the Best place to vacation if your going “lake style” Thanks Meg for capturing our beautiful summer’s here! Glad you had a great vacation.

Julie - Wow! That looks like the perfect family vacation spot! I would LOVE the isolation. A hate crowds, esp. crowded beaches. I totally “get” the bedtime deal you made! That really made your week a vacation!!!!!!

Tara - we live on Lake Ontario – with the same pretty rocks.

Barb - I’m lucky enough to live a couple miles from Lake Michigan. I never get tired of it. It is so beautiful. And the water is really warm this year (for Lake Michigan). Did you notice that? So glad you had a good vacation. (And thanks for spending it in Michigan! This state needs tourists.)

Kate - I grew up in Michigan and can say with complete certainty that it’s the BEST place to vacation. We go every other year and I wish I still lived there. It’s amazing how much I took that gorgeous beach for granted growing up.

Curtis & Sherrie - What a beautiful spot there in Michigan… that beach looks awesome and all that green all around. Here in northern California everything has already turned brown from the heat and wind…. it would be awesome to spend some time at that lake….
blessings to you and yours
Curtis & Sherrie

Curtis & Sherrie - What a beautiful spot there in Michigan… that beach looks awesome and all that green all around. Here in northern California everything has already turned brown from the heat and wind…. it would be awesome to spend some time at that lake….
blessings to you and yours
Curtis & Sherrie

Tracy - Looks like there was a ton of fun had by all! I’ve never thought about going to Michigan to the beach – LOL Love the deals you struck with the hubbys – too funny – will have to remember that one! LOL Though, my kiddos are 17 so I guess they don’t really need to be “put to bed” – HA! :o) Thanks for sharing, Meg! Can’t wait to see more!

Bec - 1. Yes, there are minor and major heart attacks πŸ˜‰
2. I love my time at the lake as well (we do it Wisconsin style) and it gets harder every year to come back to civilization.

www.Kellyloves.wordpress.com - now that’s heaven! We went to Siesta Key, just south of Sarasota, this last weekend. Best getaway ever!
http://www.kellyloves.wordpress.com

Michelle B. - Oh the joy of hearing another mom speak the truth about bedtime…”and little kids” – very liberating! Thanks!

Stephanie @ Geezees - thanks for the LOVE meg …. your photos are awesome – love the 223 steps ….

Jocelyn Stott - I am so jealous of this trip – it looks wonderful. I am living vicariously through you from my office desk.

pam - How wonderful…I always look for and find a heart shaped rock…hart is part of our last name and long ago I fell in love with heart rocks. Curious what the perfect way to cook a marshmallow is? :o)

Dana@Bungalow'56 - Megan,
My two youngest are bunked up in their oldest sister’s tiny room, while we paint there’s. I thought it would be a fiasco, but they love it. Was thinking about Lauren’s Old Navy 15th Birthday tshirt today. It is my Eldest’s 15th today. Time flies, and I’m so glad to be chronicling the memories.
Dana

Gemma @ Musings of a gem - Yummy S’mores! It sounds like a happy place : )
Gemma x

Nicole Q. - There is nothing better than vacation nights, just sitting around being together – especially when it ends with someone else doing the bedtime thing! Glad you had a great trip.

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - S’mores! Makes me happy. Beautiful place, great job!

Alicia - Looks like a very relaxing, fun time!
I love the deal you worked with your hubbies…bedtime is my absolute least favorite part of the day too. Smart!!

Georgia - It looks like the ideal holiday location… β™₯

Lisa - Looks like the perfect vacation! And I’m glad to know I’m not the only mom who doesn’t like bedtime! πŸ™‚

DreamGirlLisa - What a beautiful place!! Sounds so fun, and I’m totally jealous and in awe that you got the beach to yourself…that would make it perfect!

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vay-cay

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day two in chicago.
we spent the morning at our photo session.
i have never prepared my children's/husband's/my own personal outfits like i did for that.
we looked MArrrrrrvelous….if i am allowed to say that?

and i have nothing to show for it.
the pics take weeks to see
(which i understand more than many people…seeing that i am weeks behind in my photos also)
 
and i took none of us. 

seriously.

so we will wait.
patiently.
and hope that i do not look pregnant (because i am NOT) in at least 70% of the pictures.
not that that would be wendy or tyler's fault….just mine.
 
we tried to go to the Sears Tower.

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my family wanted to go to the glass skydeck…at the top of the building sticking out…waaaay up.
i did not.
but i would have let them.
we arrived and it was a 1.5 hour wait in a long line.
with 5 hungry grumpy hot kids craig and i said "no way"
 

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this is as close as we got to the Sears Tower (now called the Willis Tower….????)
why do people have to change history like that?

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for real.
as we were walking to our lunch destination we came upon streets shut down for the filming of
Transformers 3.
it was cool…not something you see everyday.
 

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that is the set.
right on a real chicago street.
later we watched all the ACTUAL transformer cars race down the street….even Optimus Prime!

i have no clue what i am talking about….i was as clueless as the elderly people walking around
asking "what is going on here? why are all these people stopped? who is up there?" 

BUT i did grow up with transformers so i recognized the name optimus prime.
it was cool to see it.
but i doubt i will see the movie.

oh SHiAAAA!!! (i can't say his name without thinking of this clip…)
we did not see him…much to lauren's disappointment.

LUNCH. 

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it's always portillos.
always.

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i wrote out their orders like a waitress and took my sheet to the line to order.
seven different orders are just too much to remember anymore.
when i got back to the table scott took this pic of craig and me.
ha.
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moving on through the busy chicago streets…

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we made it to the lego store.
it was sean's birthday wish.  
and i was determined to make it happen.

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it took about an hour for sean to look over the whole store.
the other kids had left with craig.
he chose the space shuttle for ages 16+.  
i had no doubt he could do it.
i told him if he chose that it would be his only birthday gift.
he was very okay with that.
the joy he had being able to pick it out…tell the saleswoman it was his birthday gift…priceless.
i got all teary eyed.
he was
SO HAPPY.  
which makes a mama happy too.

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meanwhile down the hallway of the mall we were in…
the girls were shopping too.
each with their own money they had been saving.
 
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annie and talby bought monkeys at the hello kitty store.
possibly the cutest stuffed animals ever.
and lauren bought a very cute dress at Lucky.
um….i loved that store.
never been in one.
i wanted this for me….bad.
  in navy…as a shirt not a dress because i am 34.

but i bought nothing.
not even a starbucks.

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the other smiley son.
he had no money to spend…spent it ALL the day before the trip.
on PSP stuff for the drive.
pretty smart actually.
it's a loooong drive.

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are you tired of seeing the camera over my face?
this was the last one.
i really like it.

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talby was called out of the crowd for a business card with "The Tin Man".
and a photo op.
she was BEAMING.  the card is a treasure.  she even has his cell phone number.
if you ever want to book him for a party let me know….


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lauren wanted to go in burberry.
so we waited.
i think she was surprised at how truly expensive it really was….but at least she got to see it.

and then….craig and i decided that we'd had enough chicago.
it's just not the same with 5 kids at our sides.
it was fun but michigan awaited.

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goodbye chicago.
 
i looked over at craig about an hour into the drive and said "i can feel my stress lifting. i can breathe"
the city is so loud and busy that i get tense with my kids there….but i still love it.
i am just on high alert the whole time.


hello michigan.

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chicago jen and her family arrived at the rental house shortly after we did.
we were spending an entire seven days together.
it was the longest trip we've taken together yet…..and it rocked.

we had time at the beach as the sun was setting.
michigan has the best sunsets!!
 

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stress is gone.
ready to chill all week with my family and our best friends…..ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.

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we were near Saint Joseph, MI.
on lake michigan.
we love it here.
 

April - St. Joe…..love it there!! Did you guys go to the fountains??? How about Kilwins?? I can’t believe you were right by where I live….I was waiting to see if you would say where in Michigan:) Looks like you guys had a blast!

Rebecca H. - we were just in Chicago this weekend also! LOVE your pictures… I’m now kicking myself for missed picture opportunities… but have some great ideas for ‘next time’ Hope you had a great time! Enjoy Michigan!

midwestmom - I would love to know where you stayed at too. Please?! My hubby wants to vacay to MI but we have never been to that area. Great pics and I love your blog.

Shannon - It’s so nice to hear people say such wonderful things about Michigan. Locals have been doing a lot of bashing these days, but I keep my eyes on the prize. I love lake Michigan. We camp at state parks along the lake. They are absoluely beautiful.

www.Kellyloves.wordpress.com - I’m like you … I’ve *heard* of optimis prime. ha! still cool.
http://www.kellyloves.wordpress.com

Jennifer - Love your jewelry-you guys look terrific and I can’t wait to see your pictures. Looks like a blast!

Karen Lehmann - I took my kids to Michigan so that my oldest could swim at the camp at the University of Michigan for a week. I want to move there. really. i would move there tomorrow.

Gemma - I want to go to Chicago now! It looks like a lot of fun for a mini break : )
Great pics as usual!
Gemma x

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - Meg, that looks amazing! I’m so happy for you!

Toni :O) - OMG…not only do I LOVE St. Joseph area…Silver Beach ROCKS!!! I MUST show my son your blog in the morning because he will go NUTS with your photo of the beat up road for the filming of Transformers. We’re told they will be filming in the Detroit area and I would LOVE to be able to take my son to see that…he’d go CRAZY with excitement as Bumblebee the Camaro is his favorite car in the world! Great pics and it’s cool to see so many Michigan readers on here…woot woot!

*Alex* - I’m from Michigan and then lived in Chicago and these pics make me miss them both SO much!! Love these!

Mansi - Awesome pics..

Janelle Dobbins - im a blog stalker but just had to comment. i must have just missed you! i was in chicago last week for our pampered chef conferece. this year we were at the hyatt on wacker. they did a lot of ariel shooting for transformers while we were there. it was pretty neat!! the embassy in chicago is the best! who can beat that AWESOME FREE breakfast and free happy hour!!!

Tanya H - I HAD to show my son and husband your transformer movie shots. We saw Optimus Prime and Ratchet (I barely know what I’m talking about either!) a few weeks ago- they stopped for the night in a hotel in our teeny little town on the way east. My kids were out of their heads excited. πŸ˜€

Rachel / cREaTe - you are so cute. love your hair, shirt & necklace! such cute pics & i am dying to go to ANYWHERE on lake michigan. [we were super close to going to mackinac island this weekend!] LOVE that you got to spend 7 days with your best family friends. πŸ™‚ awesome.

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - That’s exactly how I feel when I leave the city too… a weight lifting! Cool to see the movie set. I’m kind of impressed by things like that.
Loved your hair in all those pics. It is super cute.
Oh and I bought my girls those exact monkey’s when we went to Miami recently. I thought they were the cutest things ever…my husband fought me on it. I won:)

Shann - While in Michigan, you were really close to where I live! πŸ™‚ We love the beach up here. Just like the ocean but without seashells. Darn it. πŸ™‚ Your trip sounds like so much fun with your friends. I know what you mean about a trip to Chicago with kids. Very stressful. So much could happen to them and when you are from a small town like I am, they are just not exposed to all that wackiness. πŸ™‚

Genn - Hi Meg! My name is Genn and I’ve been reading your blog for a while now. Sorry I don’t usually comment! I am a little intimidated sometimes I guess to comment on “big blogs” like yours. You seem to get so many comments, sometimes I wonder how do you possible have time to read them all?
Anyway, here I am commenting, and saying hello!! Your pictures are always so fantastic. I am so inspired by them. Your family seems like so much fun, and I kinda feel like I know you (I know that sounds stalker’ish right?) since I’ve been reading your blog for so long and never said hello.
Feel free to stop by my blog sometime so you know who I am. Maybe then I will seem less stalkerish. πŸ™‚
My favorite picture in this post was the first one at the end of the afternoon in Michigan. Beautiful!!
Happy blogging! ~Genn

Melissa V. - Would love to know if that was a cute camera bag that was hanging from you…or what you use for a camera bag during a trip?

Shirley W - Great photos. Our son and family live right downtown and our daughter lived there for 5 years. We have visited many of the same sights. One of our first trips there, I, too, thought I would buy something at Burberry….not! We love to visit but certainly appreciate our small town when we get home.

shelley - we live close to st joe and head up there all the time. your pictures are fabulous as usual!

Beth W. from Dirty Laundry - I always feel so guilty when I don’t wait in lines for everything with my children who are just dying to ride that ride or go to an opening night movie…so glad to hear you didn’t wait in line for Sears (Willis??) Tower—makes me feel a little better. I just loved the hello Michigan photo. Absolutely gorgeous.

heather - love all your adventures! i know what you’re saying about kids in the city versus being there alone…we still love to do it but it is clearly very different!
and on the clothes front…i love the lucky dress/shirt! very cute! and the tank/leggings set your daughter is wearing cracked me up because my one year old has the same outfit. very different look on a big kid (but still very cute)!!

Laura Phelps - oh Meg…I just love going on vacation with you…
your pictures pull me right in as f I am there
my girls would have bought those monkeys
you look beautiful
colorful
alive!
thanks for sharing
xo

CK - So glad that you got to see some MI sunsets. They are the best! We recently went to the east coast. Our kiddos have been spoiled by the freshwater of Lake Michigan that is so big it looks like an ocean! They didn’t care much for salt water… St. Joseph is a wonderful town. We live not far away. Love the pics. Thanks for sharing!

Jeannette - Ohhh Chicago, my kids and I just came back from our first trip there!!!! We LOVED it there and how crazy we stayed in the same exact hotel……we were there the first weekend they started filming Transformers 3 and the picture policy didn’t allow us to take any pics. I looked through all of yours from the city and it was like I was right there again!!!! Thanks for sharing :o)

angela - I love how PROUD he looks over getting to pick out the Legos!!! (Love following along on your trip too!)

Wendy - I grew up on Lake Michigan. In a little town called New Buffalo. It’s quite built up and touristy now. Enjoy your time.

jamie - we live in michigan, the ann arbor area. i just dragged my hubs and two of my kids to lake michigan a week ago for a day trip to st. joseph! where was the rental home? would LOVE to check it out for a possible stay! michigan is lovely, isn’t it?

Sarah - Funny. My husband and I just got back from a weekend there just for us. We were at that same Lego store and Hello Kitty store getting toys for the kids. And, our hotel was right on the street where they were still filming Transformers. Great city!

Lisa - Im loving looking at all the photos. There is something about seeing a place on the other side of the world through the eyes of someone else. Perhaps one day we will travel and see some of these sights too.
I was surprised when you said that water was a lake. It is so expansive i thought it must have been the ocean. Now im gonna have to look at a map and see where Michigan is. LOL

Flower Patch Farmgirl - Silver Beach!!! We are close to St. Joe and we love that whole area. Can I just say that if I had happened upon all of you that I quite possibly would have accosted you in some fashion? It would have been a friendly accosting, but an accosting, nonetheless. Oh, I also would have fainted dead away.

Kimberlee J. - Chicago might have been stressful, but you look fabulous. Pregnant? I think not.
That Lauren has great taste—Burberry. IN MY DREAMS. Sigh.

DreamGirlLisa - OH Megan, what wonderful trip…love seeing it through your eyes/lens…your hair looks so darling, I really love it, all the pics of you are coming out great…can’t wait to see more!
You have really made me want to go to Chicago…someday hopefully!

Staci - Ahhhh πŸ˜‰ Beeyouteeful!! Never been to Meeechigan…gonna put that on my list πŸ™‚ Glad you had such an awesome time!

Keisha - I live about 30 minutes from St. Joe and love going to Silver Beach. You are right Michigan does have the best sunsets and beaches. Sometime you should visit South Haven they also have beautiful beaches. Love reading your blog:) Thanks for sharing your photos.

Tonya - Not sure if you and your family are popcorn fans, but Garrett’s Popcorn shop on Michigan Ave is WONDERFUL!!!! They always have a long line, but it goes fast and is totally worth it. I used to live in that area and GP, Portillo’s (which I see you found already), Giordano’s and the Hancock tower are just a few of the attractions I suggest to friends. Thanks for sharing.
http://www.garrettpopcorn.com/

elma - Oh Meg I just took six of my kids to Chicago by myself for two days. I was soooo stressed that I would lose a little one. The place is sooo busy and crazy but my kids loved it. We to went to Lego land and I posted pictures on face book of Lego Woody to:) Glad you have a great time.
Loved the pictures of the lake. We went there last week and are going with my girlfriend and her kids tomorrow. They are from Canada so they are super excited. πŸ™‚

Lori - I agree. I love Chicago to visit once in a while but it’s almost overload with all the hustle and bustle. Beautiful sunset picture!

linda lou - this will be my only trip to chicago & michgan i’am enjoying it. the photos are awesome(:
blessings, and safe trip home

Shari - So I see that you are using your camera without a strap? I find that my strap gets in my way more than it helps…

Jocelyn Stott - Great pics. I love the lego Woody. Looks like it is a great trip!!!

lala - Meg, Would you share where you rented or some recommendations? St. Joseph is not too far from here and we need a mini-vacay before summer is over. Thanks! Lindsay

Talysa - So glad to hear that I’m not the only “high alert” mom. I like that name…sounds much better than neurotic. πŸ˜‰

Stacy - Love the pictures. Looks like you are having some wonderful family time. I don’t know if you have any Ross stores where you live. But I saw a shirt there that looks almost exactly like the dress you wanted a Lucky but it was only 14.99. Just wanted to share.

shelly - Ah, Legos! My sister had our boys this weekend and took them to Legoland in Schaumburg…they are still talking about it!!!

Julie - What a nice vacation! Enjoyed seeing your pictures and reading about your trip. My boys would love to go to the Lego store for their b-day ~ totally cool boy b-day!!!

Aimee - My family is from Michigan. Not me, but my mom and nana. I lived there for a couple of years in my early twenties. We would drive from NY to MI just about every summer when I was a kid. I LOVED it! Its such a relaxing place and I love that the sun sets so late there (so close to the edge of the time zone).

Jennifer - We’ve never been to this part of the country…your pics make me want to head that way! Oh, and btw,I soooo love your hair!!

BriBedell - Okay now I am really upset..woman, I live so close to St. Jo. (creepy stalker alert) Bummer πŸ™ Hope you guys had a good time!! Please tell me you made it to Silver Beach Pizza at least once!!

elisa - Lucky Girl- love Lake Michigan.
Pushing for a trip there too!

Penny - St. Joe is a lovely place. I love Lake Michigan!! We are on the other side of the state. My daughter goes to college in Grand Rapids. It is so nice there. I love all of the pictures. How wonderful to spend a week with friends. I feel the same about cities. They are great to visit, just way too busy for me!! Thanks for sharing your trip!

Ashley Stinson @ The Hillside Home - great pictures!!!! thanks for sharing!

Lisa - I hear what you’re saying about Chi-town being stressful with the kiddos – not the same when you’re there alone as a couple! Glad you had a good time on vacation – Michigan looks fantasic!

Georgia - Ohhhh i really want to goto America again.
I have visited Florida twice as a kid, but i need a city adventure and it looks like just the place!

Sophie - Such gorgeous pictures,you’ve got me wanting to visit Chicago now! And I totally agree on the Sears Tower thing 😐

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chicago

i know i said we went to michigan…but first we went to chicago for a day.
it's right on the way.
and that's where our family pictures were.
with wendy + tyler….of blue lily photography.

{{{{sigh}}}}…..it was lovely.
 
i immediately decided i wanted craig to quit his job and be a full time photography partner with me.
just like them.
a team working together in perfect harmony…just like them.
craig said no.  
he likes math/numbers/money & not artsy backgrounds or kids who won't smile (like one of mine did).
i can dream though.
wendy and tyler were A-W-E-S-O-M-E.

but back to the trip.
we loaded up 7 suitcases….two huge-mongous beach bags…every swimsuit in the house….
every portable electronic device we own…the case of 100 dvds…a bag of snacks…and we hit the road.

5 hours in we hit our first glich.
puke.
annie threw up ON the bag we passed her.
not in.
so we had to find clean clothes….on the side of the road.
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i lost my temper with the big kids who were totally in the way while craig cleaned up the back seat.
he is such a good daddy.
"the last true family man"  :)
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thank you bluffs.
we'll always remember you.
ha.
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hello chicago.
 
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we stayed in a hotel downtown…kids thought it was amazing.
(embassy suites on columbus street)
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we had to have a "discussion" right there on the side of the street about how to behave in the city.
the four youngest were so excited they were all over the place.
climbing and jumping and pressing buttons.
it is quite different taking kids to chicago instead of your girlfriends.

i can tell you which one i liked better…..

we met up with old friends at millennium park.
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everyone loves the bean.

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then we walked over to play in the fountain.
remember last time i was here and the lady in the tube socks and teeny skirt bent over in front of me
flashing me her granny panties?
i do.
chicago is always great for people watching.


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would you believe that there were TWO people wearing that pink outfit in the background?
two people at the fountain at the same time in a hot pink romper?!
 

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annie had a stalker.
a little boy was following her non-stop.
it was making her crazy.
she finally turned and whacked him on the head and yelled "STOP FOLLOWING ME!!!"
didn't work.
he was so strange.
i had to move in and give him my mama evil eye and pointed finger.
it worked.
but i got wet because of it….ugh.


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lady number two….

craig and scott walked over to giordianos to carry out pizza for dinner.
it was a gorgeous evening with a breeze and perfect temperature.
there was a concert going on directly behind us in the pavilion.
chicago at it's finest.
we loved it. 

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my kids were a little more goofy than i wish they were.
but in their defense….they had driven all day in the car to get there.
 

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8 kids together again.
the hang's and the duerksen's living it up in the city.
 
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peter was a daily part of our lives for so many years.
before he was married and a daddy himself….he was hanging out with us all the time.
we loved it.
the kids loved him around to play loud music and be crazy with them.
we loved having someone around who loved movies as much as we did….among many other reasons.
those were the good ol' days peter!


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peter's wife erica was there also (in the background) but she is a photographer too…
so she is behind the camera like me.
the moms always get cut out.
 

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we said our goodbyes and walked back to our hotel.
annie's legs were tired.
we swam in the hotel pool…it was the funniest pool i have ever seen.
5 feet wide by 20 feet.
with about 30 kids in it.
i didn't last long….my head was about explode.
i took the four youngest to bed and craig took lauren to navy pier for some big kid time.
i was asleep within 10 minutes.
needed my beauty sleep for our family pics in the morning.

so….that was chicago day one.
typepad is still being weird.

i had to log out between every picture uploading?!!!
let's hope tomorrow it will be working again.

Jeannette - We almost crossed paths while in Chicago(we were there the 7th through the 12th), we stayed at that same hotel and I have to agree with ya it was the funniest pool and wasn’t it hot in there. We got to see some of the Transformers 3 filming as well but the picture police kept yelling “No pictures” I did manage to get a few not so good ones with my phone. This was my first time in Chicago and we LOVED it!!! Hopefully we will make it back soon. Love the pics, thanks for sharing

Lifesexperiences-dawn.blogspot.com - I just wanted to say how much I love your blog. Your blog has inspired me to start my own and take more interesting pictures, so thanks. Also great pictures from Chicago.

Kathy T - Oh, my. I miss my Chicago. New Jersey just isn’t the same. Thanks for the lovely pics. Hope you had a great time.

www.Kellyloves.wordpress.com - I’ve never been to Chicago. Looks amazing!
http://www.kellyloves.wordpress.com

Michele - I’m new to your blog. This is such a fun post. Our fam just got back from Chicago. We saw a Cubs game at Wrigley. My little boys are 1 and 3 1/2 and they loved β€œthe bean”. Thanks for sharing these photos. I liked seeing Chicago from someone else’s perspective. You have such a cute family!

Kristi - we have pictures booked with bluelily in August! I am so excited. and having a very hard time figuring out what we should all wear!

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - Not sure why but I haven’t been able to comment…it’s been killing me. I’ve been back here 5 times now! Anyway…we’ve never been to the Bean. I don’t know how that’s possible since I’ve been to Chicago many times. Look like a great place to snap some awesome pics.
I just had to comment on your mothering here. After driving all day I know you had to be tired…really really tired. Especially with your little one throwing up. I’ve experienced this many a time. Anyway to let them get in their suites and dance in that fountain. WAY COOL. You deserve an award or something!

Beth - The pink rompers are just too much. I’ve seen more of them this summer than I ever wanted to see. Usually on body types that shouldn’t even being thinking about it! Thanks for the laugh!

katie - i read your blog all the time but i don’t think i’ve ever commented. just wanted to say that my favorite thing about that post was the picture of everyone jumping off the bench because lauren was jumping too. πŸ™‚ i was so proud of her for not being “too cool” to do it.

Lisa - I LOVE CHICAGO! My hubby and I were there 3 weeks ago for our 10th anniversary and we stayed at the Embassy Suites too. Loved it! Looks like you had a great time!

Mindy Harris - Lauren’s dress is so pretty! Looks like you had fun…you are all so brown. πŸ™‚ It’ll be fun to see your fam pics.

Julie - I’m married to a family guy too ~ they are the greatest! And one reason I had five kids with him. Most guys I wouldn’t have had one with! Chicago looks amazing!!

amy d - i bet a certain doodle was very happy to see you when you got home…chicago pics are awesome!

Heather @ Cookie Mondays - GASP! Blue Lily?!!! So jealous.
And- I think I’ve told you this before… but Kevin wanted me to REinform you (remember, he reads my blogroll) that he had a hand in the building of the Bean. Aren’t you proud?

Dana@Bungalow'56 - Megan,
This was my first introduction to Blue Lily. How exciting that they were coming to a Canadian city that both my sisters live in. Unfortunately all the slots were booked. Hopefully they will come again. After seeing some of their shots I can’t wait to see your family photo.
Dana

Carrie K - cool water shots and its great to see Lauren in lots of pictures πŸ™‚
ugh..rompers…who decided it was a good idea to make them in ADULT sizes (not to mention…big girl sizes..lol…and i can say that…im a big girl)
cant wait for the rest…esp the family pictures πŸ™‚

Tracy - Great pictures, Meg! We love Chicago – my husband is originally from there and a lot of his family still live there. We are HUGE Chicago Cubs fans! ;o) I had to LOL about Annie bopping some boy on the head to leave her alone and about the 2 different women in the same pink romper at the same place, and same time- ha! Can’t wait to see the family pictures! xoxoxx

citymouse - I love Chicago. It is, hands down, my favorite US city. Lucky duck!

Holly - it looks like fun! We have been talking about a trip to Chicago. We havent been before. I wonder how our four would do?…hmmmmmm…..

heidi @ wonder woman wannabe - I HEART Chicago!! Looks like ya’ll had a blast!

susie whyte - blue lily?! completely jealous. love them.
did i see lauren with a camera around her neck?? πŸ™‚

erin j - We stayed at that same Embassy Suites on our visit to check out Chicago before our move. We faced the river instead of the lake though. That pool is awesomely tiny and oh so echo-y. Yay for Giordano’s and the Bean. Looks like fun!

Krista - Craig gets “Dad of the Year” for cleaning up the puke in the car, you are lucky! In my house, I would be the one cleaning up the puke while my husband dry heaves at the slightest smell of it. But anyway, I loved the pictures of your day in Chicago. I don’t mean to ask a bizarre question, but what is the Bean made of? I am wondering how it stays so clean when it seems like everyone is touching it. Odd question, but it crossed my mind….

candace - Looks like a lovely trip so far….can’t wait to see the rest!

Michelle - Meg, that is some dedication to us because whoa, that’s a lot of logging in and out. Loved the re-cap and can’t wait for more!

Leigh - Never a dull moment at Millennium Park. It makes me miss living there!

Kimberlee J. - Is a pink romper on your next shopping list? No? I thought you said you liked pink!

Secret Mom Thoughts - we are going to Chicago this summer. Loved seeing your pics.

sarah - Looks like you guys had a great holiday. I love the piggy back cuddles.

Kelly - I love Chicago! I’ve never been in the summer though. Ahhh Giordanno’s. My fave. Rompers are not for grown-ups! My upstairs neighbor may have been one of those hot pink romper people. She was wearing on the other day. Lauren on the other hand looks beautiful! Great dress! Glad you had a great time! Kelly

Jaime A. - For the most part, it sounds (and looks) like fun!!
I was born in Chicago, but my parents moved to Arizona when I was 18mos old. I’ve never been back, so it’s always fun to see it through other people’s eyes. Can’t wait until the husband and I go sometime.
Can’t wait to see the family pictures! That site was amazing!

sandy toe - I love the water coming out of the mouth-
so fun!
sandy toe

Musings Of A Gem - Cute pictures!! That bean thing looks like so much fun : )
Gemma X

Sara @ It's Good to be Queen - sadly the bright pink romper was the first thing i noticed in each of those photos. it was like a blinding light that i couldn’t ignore.

Trish @TheOldPostRoad - What great memories for the kids! My kids love hotels – even the cheap ones.
-Trish

sarah - Looks amazing.
i want to go and see chicago and the bean.
poor annie. I was always the puker when I was little.
Lauren is so cute, I love that dress she’s wearing.
Can’t wait to see the family session:)

Talysa - Ahhh…nothin like puke in the car on a road trip. Your oldest seems to have been bitten by the photog bug too I see? πŸ™‚
Cant wait to see the family pics!

pam - That is one of our favorite BIG cities…and Giordianos pizza is amazing. We have had it shipped to us over night….best 16th birthday party ever.

Nicole Q. - I can’t wait to see your family pics!!
Chicago looked like so much fun (you just can’t escape those normal kid/family moments no matter where you go)!!
We’ve never done Chicago with our kids – just a hundred youth group kids!!

Stephanie - Embassy Suites Rock!! Hot made to order breakfast, free happy hour, beautiful lobby!! I always look for their hotels first when planning a trip!!

tara pollard pakosta - I love chicago!
we live 33 miles sw of there, but never
get down there! traffic stinks!!!
but it would be worth it no?!
love all the pix!!!
so where in Michigan did you go?! Upper MI or the lower?
and I didn’t know that blue lily was in chicago, or I forgot!!!
tara

Ali - What hotel did you stay at?

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10

how can this be?
how can my sean….my sparkle eyed boy…my third child…my BABY…be 10??

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i did not go to the work of scanning these…i just photo-ed his baby book.

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and now?
his feet are bigger than mine.

his mind is complex and detailed.
he has an amazing mind.

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we are close…he likes to talk to me.
i love that.
 
he has requested an ice cream cake and his birthday list is filled with things that are too expensive.

happy birthday to my little man.
 
 
           

Kelly - happy birthday, Sean! I requested an ice cream cake for my birthday last year! yum! hope it’s yummy. Kelly

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - Happy birthday Sean!

Alaina - Happy birthday Sean from all these crazy people who love to follow your mom’s blog that you’ve never met!!! I hope you had a super great day!
Is that Lauren holding him? She looks just like Talby!!!!!!

shelly @familyblt - Happy day you were born, Sean!!!

katy - Oh, that’s sweet! Happy b-day to Sean.

Mindy Harris - beautiful boy. Happy 10th, Sean.

benson - I remember when “baby” Peter turned ten–we kept telling him not to get any older…that this was fine…that he could always be ten. It’s a wonderful age (btw–he’s 23 now and still baby Peter and we still think he’s wonderful)

Ruth - happy birthday sean! he seems like such a cool guy πŸ™‚

Deputy's Wife - Ten years ago I must have been going into the hospital as you were coming out. My oldest will be ten in a few short days. All I remember that summer is that it was hot. Plain old hot.
Happy Birthday!!!

Lynda - congratulations Sean!!! What is it with these children? my oldest girl is twelve and wil leave school within one and a half weeks……how come??? what happened???? and now???;)

Rhonda - Oh, they grow up too fast. Love the pictures.

tara pollard pakosta - Happy Birthday Sean!!!
He seems like a very sweet and amazing persoN!
tara

Rachel Johnston - WOW double figures!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SEAN πŸ˜€ have a superb day πŸ˜€

Heather @ Cookie Mondays - Sean is the coolest! πŸ™‚

Charisse - Happy Birthday from another Kansas mom! My little Tate turns 4 today and our Matt, who went to be with the Lord almost 8 years ago, would have been 11 today. Blessings on your day!

amy d - happy birthday sean!!!! hope your having a great day!
amy & miley

Sandy - Happy Birthday, Sean! It always amazes me how much grown up kids still look like they did when they were a baby. Blessings to all of you!

Julie K. - I totally forgot that our boys share a birthday! Happy birthday Sean!

Kelly - Happy birthday Sean!

Staci - HAPPY BIRTHDAY SEAN!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sweet sweet boy πŸ˜‰

Gemma - Happy Birthday Sean..have a great one : )
Gemma X

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - My baby is 10 too. It chokes me up a bit. Happy birthday to your Sean:)

Krista - Happy Birthday to your sweet boy!!

Laura Phelps - I just wrote on my own blog today how much I LOVE THIS KID!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My Dew Dew Dude is TEN!
Happy Birthday Sean…
thanks for trying to teach Luke how to play the piano…I know that wasn’t easy…
thanks for making me my very own comic…
you are a great kid!!
I hope your mom gets you everything on your too expensive list!

se7en - So big so fast!!! I hope ten is totally fun!!!

Jennifer - Happy Birthday Sean!!!

heidi @ wonder woman wannabe - what a handsome guy! The baby pics are all ADORABLE – I’ve got a five year old that shows promise of being a life-time mama’s boy – I’ll take it! πŸ™‚

Megan - What a cutie! Happy Happy day to your big boy!

shelly - Happy Birthday! Our oldest turned 10 in May. I can’t believe the size of his Feet!!! My little snuggle bug is now to big to fit on my lap (not that he’d want to! Mooooom..eyes rolling)

Leah in FL - Happy Birthday, Sean! Meagan, you are blessed … but you know that. :o)

Rita - I want to say what a beautiful boy but I must also say what a handsome young man. HAPPY BIRTHDAY! You are both lucky to have each other.

Niki - Happy Birthday, Sean! You are my kind of kid with that Ice Cream Cake request! They are the best! Have an awesome day!!

tami - My son is 10 as well, he is very handsome! I cant get any suga anymore now!

Lori - What sweet pictures! Happy Birthday. Oh, and take my word for it, their lists get even more expensive as the years go by. πŸ™‚

Heather R. - Happy Birthday, Sean. (That is my brother’s name :))

angela - Happy Birthday to your boy!!!! What a handsome young man. Boys and their moms have a special bond.

LouBoo - Hi – ohh now that is such a sweet post. The picture of him as a baby with his big sister I presume? That is just precious. Happy birthday to your ‘babe’ not so much a baby anymore. Lou x

Holly - Happy Birthday Sean!

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