it's been three years since the earthquake in Haiti. and then this year 70% of the crops in the South of Haiti were ruined by Hurricane Sandy. it has been extremely hard for Haiti.
through The Adventure Project we continue to be able to help. we have been able to provide funds to make the charcoal efficient stoves afforable to the poor.
for just $20 you can help in Haiti!
you can help families cook food in a more afforable way (less charcoal) and improve the toxic smoke in the air and protect the environment all by buying a stove.
i love when there are EASY ways to help.
The Adventure Project is doing something pretty cool right now… sponsor 3 stoves and you can win a trip to Haiti.
so…. ready to enter the coolest contest you have ever seen?!
how amazing it will be to get to see the stoves first hand, meet the women, see the children… it's awesome?!
mollie's mom-I am so excited for you…. I left my heart in Haiti after an amazing mission trip to Port-au-Prince ( actually I was there in April before the “big” earthquake – we experienced a “small” earthquake during our trip that we now know was a “warning quake”!!) It will be a life changing trip – the people of Haiti are incredible. I cannot wait to see your pictures and hear about your trip. I wish I were going with 🙂 You will be amazed by the faithfullness of the people and the beauty they create from nothing in the midst of poverty. I have friends living and working there, we have a school we help support there and their art hangs in my home and I think about them every day when I look at it. I am sooooo excited for you – there isn’t anywhere quite like Haiti!! I blogged about it here- http://madebymolliesmom.blogspot.com/2012/01/not-crafty-post-im-afraid.html- check out those precious faces and prepare to fall in love with the children of Haiti – it’s impossible not to!!! Marcie
Jamie-I am heading to Haiti Feb 26th! I’ve never been and I am so excited to go! Would love to hear more about what you are going to be doing there! 🙂
gretchen -Exciting! Great project. My husband just got back a week ago from Haiti thru our churches mission trip. It was awesome for him. Over 20 in the group went and helped at an orphanage. The biggest help they need is clothes for all the kids. And, adopting or supporting a child at an orphanage with monthly costs. There were 80 kids at the orphanage he visited and 20 plus babies were dropped off when he was there. It’s definitely an eye opener. Hope your trip is wonderful!
Sarah{Handbags*N*Pigtails}-We just got our assignment for our next missions trip this summer(Dominican Republic) and Im so excited! Theres nothing like getting right into the midst of the people, seeing how they live, what they go through,etc… Its very humbling and makes you realize how blessed we are. Have a wonderful(& fruitful!) trip. 🙂
Lisa -I have gone to Haiti twice! So excited for you to go! Can’t wait to hear all about it. 🙂
Lorel -amazing! you put so much good in the world Megan!
Tiffany-WOW Meg! You are going to be there?! I’m so excited for you! This is just the kind of experience I’ve been wanting to have lately. Pat and I talk about taking a tropical trip somewhere, but when there are people in this world who need our help, all I can think about is traveling somewhere where we can help. I can’t wait to hear about your experience and see your pictures. What a wonderful opportunity for you!
PS- I love how you use your site to reach out to more people to help… God sure is using you in many wonderful ways! 🙂
Kate-Are you serious?! That is amazing! Happy dance for you!
Jacci in Ohio-Oh, Megan. Haiti? Haiti?! 🙂
Haiti has my heart in so many ways. Haiti is going to get under your skin in such a beautiful way… I know it. You know it’s the poorest country in the WORLD, right? That it has the most malnourished children in the Western Hemisphere? This is, beyond doubt, one of the neediest places on earth. And, yet, everyone who goes says there is such strength… such joy.
I am so thrilled for you to go. To hear your stories. To watch the Lord use you.
Amen & Amen!!!
(talking to hubby – then sponsoring some stoves!)
Tere -Such great news, I am so excited for you. You are such a brave and amazing woman, such an inspiration! Can’t wait to hear all about it. xoxo tere
chantelle-wow! only one comment so far?!?! I’m so inspired that you are going to haiti! i don’t know your family situation; but from what i can tell, you are an entrepreneurial momma who is really passionate about helping others and you use your creativity to fund your passions… thanks for inspiring me nearly each day for the past three years. kite a fe sa! (let’s do this!)
World Market is one of my favorite stores! i chose which side of town i shop at so that i can be sure to be close to the world market. :)
$150 gift card? yes please. LET'S GET SHOPPING!!
i had my instagram working hard while i was shopping. i shared lots of the the fun things i was finding and dreaming about. i started following World Market on Instagram too!
i stood there in front of this wall of pillows and thought "i love every single one… how could i choose?"
this chair is my favorite… i drool over it every time i am there. each tufted button is a different colorful fabric. it makes me so happy to see.
i loved both of these huge signs.
world market has a great section of stocking stuffers and gifts for kids! i know Sean would love this in his stocking.
this chair?! it looks vintage!! i looooove it.
i am pretty sure that this rug should live at my house…it's lovely.
my girls would enjoy every second of making this gingerbread tree. and my boys might also if they had their own so they wouldn't have to share. my favorite part… premade cookies…. all supplies are included!
how sweet are these deer hooks? i think spray painted in hot pink would be even more amazing!
everything i find at World Market makes me smile and i feel inspired.
but this day at World Market wasn't really for MY wants. i had $150 to spend on a gift basket to donate to a charity of my choice.
it took me awhile to choose one… i wasn't sure where to go. i asked my friends for suggestions and they lead me eventually to Youthville… a local organization that has secure housing for girls ages 12- 17.
Youthville's Secure Care program is designed to serve girls who have chronic runaway behaviors and have been deemed by the courts as "Children In Need of Care". This 24-hour, highly structured and safe environment allows females to address behaviors in a safehome-like setting. The program's objective is to return girls safely to their families and communities by decreasing the likelihood of future runaway episodes through skill building and improving decision making.
while in their secure housing they are taught cooking and baking courses.
i found mixing bowls, cookie sheets, measuring cups, cupcake pan and liners, sprinkles, ruffley girlie hot pads, cute spoons, sweet smelling soap, spatulas, and even yummy mixes to enjoy. it was so much fun to keep filling and filling that basket!
i'm grateful to have had the opportunity to think about & pray for these girls who are living here. they deserve the chance to have big dreams, happiness and even just a pretty bowl to make cookies in. life has not been easy for them but maybe they will find some simple joy in learning how to bake.
i thought about my own girls and how much they enjoy decorating a gingerbread house each year. maybe the girls at this house have never gotten to do that? yes… put it in the basket!
i highly encourage you to find SOMETHING around you to help with this christmas. anything.
just pick any charity near you, call them and say "i want to help you…tell me how" and i promise they will tell you how. then go do it. your heart will feel like it's about to burst when you go and give your gift!
Outreach-I really appreciate this post. I’ve been looking all over for this! Thank goodness I found it on Bing. You have made my day! Thanks again!
Allison-Thank you for choosing Youthville! My friend works there. She loves what she does and is always looking for activities the girls will like and this sounds like the perfect thing!
Nanette -Wow! What a great cause – and it is amazing what kids get from learning to cook with someone. I think it is one of the most important things to do with your kids…my 3 boys love it and I hope it is bonding time they will always remember. That chair needs to live in your house…it is SOOO you! If I ever buy any new furniture in my future it will be the settee that matches that chair – I love it!
teresa-Wonderful. Nothing better than doing for others.
Happy Day
Sarah{Handbags*N*Pigtails}-I love World Market but we don’t have them here in NY(boo) so I always have to order online.
I love what this organization does. Giving hope… what the Christmas season is all about!
Tiffany-Good for you! How fun that you were asked to play Santa. I bet the girls will love it… You were so thoughtful with picking the items out they would enjoy.
Flower Patch Farmgirl-Nice job, Pretty Hair!
Did you see the paper mache reindeer head? I keep seeing it online then crying on the inside…It is so cool. And we are deprived of World Market in Indiana.
I like the hooks. Goodbye.
Tanya-What a fantastic organization. It made me quite teary thinking about those girls and all the girls out there who struggle. I am touched that there are people pouring into their lives and investing in them in hopes of returning them to their families happier and more settled. Good read! Thanks <3
Kate-That is fantastic! What an amazing organization!
Lori Austin -That basket is pure joy. Sounds like the charity was a perfect choice.
Leadia Jarvis-My girlfriend and I went there the other night and spent an hour in the aisles. I fell in love with those deer hooks and those chairs. I bought way too many stocking stuffers that will probably drive ME crazy once the kids get their hands on them but…giant whoopee cushions and tin slide whistles??? How could I pass those up? I love their foods and their jewelry too. And…they are so nice there. Always. Go back and get a tin of the dark chocolate salted caramel bark as a gift to yourself. I did 😉
Laura -My church works with the Salvation Army to adopt families. It’s such a nice way to give joy to a family that wouldn’t be able to otherwise afford such luxury. And we’re all blessed with so much in comparison to our neighbors.
Laura-THIS is awesome
THIS is why I came back to blogging…
and now I kind of want to go shopping WITH you…for others…but maybe we can stop for a latte on the way….
xoxoxoxoxox
when you were a kid did you get the sears or jcpenney christmas wish book and look at them OVER and OVER? i did. i circled things on almost every page.
just like my girls do now with the American Girl catalog or Justice.
i thought i would be silly and share my grown up wish list that is some parts completely impractical/pure dreaming and some parts regular stuff.
you never get too old for that.
tissue garland….that i didn't have to make myself. isn't it lovely??
these Nike Free shoes that i can't find anywhere in an 8.5 online anywhere!!! but if i find them IN store again i WILL snatch them up.
i would love to learn to make doughnuts. i would need…
this is my favorite scent at Bath & Body Works…. STRESS RELIEF. i am not a smelly kind of girl but if i ever DO want to smell something this is it. i don't wear perfume and lotions but when i take a bath… this makes me happy!
Treadmill …. a good sturdy one that doesn't rattle or shake and is not deafingly loud for all the running i will have to do all winter to train for this half marathon i agreed to do.
i want this dress. i would put it on and twirl all around…. my husband would take my hand and tell me how beautiful i looked… we would go to a fancy party and dance like they do in romantic movies…
ohhhh… wait…. maybe this one instead. it sparkles. it's glittery. i can just close my eyes and imagine what it would feel like to wear this dress. {{{ S I G H }}} it's a very nice thought.
this hot pink velvet chair from World Market….. is this the most perfect chair ever created?!! yes it is. can't you just imagine wearing the glitter dress and sitting in this pink chair?!
and this beautiful gray painted dresser also from world market that would look so perfect in a room that only exists in my head at this time… but trust me… it's a gorgeous room. :)
i have wanted a hot tub since… forever. i still do. i think it would be so relaxing. the farm house could ROCK a hot tub so easily. :)
i always love new colorful fun running gear. athleta is beautiful but pricey so that is why it's on my dreamy wish list. i feel like i am supposed to want a garmin… since i run. but i run my miles and then i don't think about it again until the next time i go again. so i don't know if i would even use it. what is the exciting part of garmins?
so i made this whole list of things i love and "want" but all day while i was working on it i just felt…. funny. it's just a fun list. i don't NEED any of it and do i even really "want" these things?? "it's just fun inspiring stuff….why am i feeling like this?" i said to myself all day.
what do i REALLY WANT?
i want Yana to have a mom & dad to take care of her forever. to love her forever.
i saw her on Jeannett's blog yesterday and i can't get her out of my mind!!! she is precious. she is an orphan. she needs a family. it could be you!
don't you want to kiss her face?! and hug her tight and never let her go….
i was not planning on writing about this…. i was just making a silly wish list.
but God would not let me leave it at that. he took a hold of my heart and my blog today and made sure i refocused on the REAL want… the desire of my heart.
because all i really WANT today is for Yana to get a family this christmas. i want to help her get that!! that is the good stuff.
THAT is the sparkly glittery dress of real life.
jeannett has helped two other sweet babies through Reese's Rainbow find families the past two years and it is so joyous to know i was a part of that.
so let's ALL help YANA this year!!
go over to Life Rearranged, read all about Yana and you can even enter jeannett's giveaway.
Tiffany-Oh Meg. Once again, your random fun gives me a smile. And your baby portion of the post has me thinking more… I’ve always kind of felt a tug at my heart strings for adoption. It kind of flits in and out of my mind. Maybe God has that in the plans for our family. I don’t know. It’s good for you to mention this though, bringing it back to my thoughts. I just can’t imagine a baby without a home. 🙁
Mary-i want that baby.
really, i would LOVE to receive such an amazing gift like that precious soul.
headed over to jeanetts.
Ela -Thank you for this post Meg.
Especially theese words:
“because all i really WANT today is for Yana to get a family this christmas.
i want to help her get that!!
that is the good stuff.
THAT is the sparkly glittery dress of real life.”
You inspired me beyound words. Just the way you expressed it just descibed it in a new way, it painted a picture that will stay with me all my life. It shaked me and moved me and put words on the longing I have for my life. The real sparkly dress. And will change how I celebrate christmas, in ways I don´t know yet. But i know I want to share this with the youthgroup i´m on of the leaders in when we celebrate xmas next week. Thank you for writing this!!
Candy Joyce -LOVE your blog!!!
I feel like I can’t run without my watch!!! 😉 I don’t have a Garmin, but have a Nike one and love it. You download your runs and it maps them out, you can see your pace for every mile, it keeps up with every run you ever do, it tells you achievements you earn–blah, blah—I love it! 🙂 Would love to know what training method you are going to be using for the 1/2. I only run 5K’s—:) but after running the St. Jude one in Memphis, I am motivated to do a 1/2 for those precious kiddos battling cancer.
Amber-Love RR and the kiddos on there. Are you sure she isn’t YOUR baby? She is totally totally precious. Great list!
Flower Patch Farmgirl-She’s so squishable!! Your heart. I like it. I know of the exact tension you write about here. I feel it all the time. I NEVER used to! dangit.
Okay, HOW did the person above me not like BossyPants??? I’m sure I can guess…but I LOVED it. I shook the bed laughing.
And I hauled the JCP catalog around for months. I took it to the next level and cut out my husband, my kids, everything for our house, what we wore, my wedding dress (haha, JCP!) It was seriously my favorite “toy”.
What else???
Oh. I have that West Elm thing only in shower curtain form. It’s citrony and I love it.
Tanya -Stress relief is my one and only too. Stress + Relief = Good.
Linda -Loved today’s post! Made me smile!
Jillbeth@aol.com-Hi Meg,
I happen to be heading to the Nike Employee store tomorrow – lucky me I live in Portland and have many Nike employee friends who give guest passes – woo hoo! Want me to look for your shoes for ya???? I am SO serious! AND they would be half the price as retail, I am also SO serious about that. And you could pay me and everything…..happy to help a girl out.
xo~Jill
forever*cottage.blogspot.com jillbeth@aol.com
Chantelle-As a mom of 5 internationally adopted kids I would like to say to someone who might be tempted but unsure… GO FOR IT!! 🙂 Adoption is a blessing and a gift. Nothing you do in life will ever compare.
Molly-Love your list. all. of. it. you kinda punched me in the stomach with the last one though. the good punch you in the stomach kind. praying for yana today. thanks!
alamama -I have had my eye on Yana for some time. I too pray she gets a forever home.
AliG -I splurge and buy swim stuff from Athleta – totally worth it as it holds up so well!
T -Have you looked on the Nike site where you can customize your shoe colors?
Lacy-You should get Bossypants on audiobook. Listening to Tina read it just put me in stitches.
Kim@NewlyWoodwards-Awesome list. I am normally just a lurker but had to suggest Bossypants on audio. I downloaded it on my iPhone and laughed my behind off listening to Tuna Fey read it while working on projects.
Gabrielle -Meg, your blog ALWAYS makes me smile. And I can see you perfectly in that neon green athleta shirt. Sounds to me like you might be wanting little Yana for your own home . . .
Tracie -I had one of those days yesterday. I was at a Stop Hunger Now meeting talking about how twenty-five cents pays for one meal. I was super humbled when I realized my $3 latte could have provided food for 12 people. Definitely makes you think about needs/ wants. I am so grateful for all of God’s blessings, and so grateful to be able to be used by Him.
Thanks for this post today.
CathyC-Oh Reeces Rainbow! L.O.V.E.
**My kids** are Beckett, and the sisters Samantha & Kristina. I have prayed for lots of kids on there & they have found their families, but for some reason these 3 kids are still there and it KILLS me. Kristina is 2 weeks older than my daughter & I cannot imagine my daughter in that place.
Thanks for bringing light to Reeces today.
jen -Meg,
I’m not sure how much of these you read, but wanted to enlighten you on the donut making. You can make the most simple and delicious podered sugar (my favorite) or cinnamon suger donuts with just TWO ingredients — pilsbury biscuits, the cheap, comes in a six-pack kind; and either powdered suger or cinnamon suger, depending on what you like.
Here’s what you do:
remove and wash the cap of any small, round lid, like the one on your soy or A1 sauce, for example. press it down in the middle of a biscuit, shaking it from side to side a bit to separate the dough. The middle circle you just cut out is your donut hole and now you have a donut. repeat this process until you have all the donuts and holes you want. The kids could do this. I used to love making these as a kid … but I digress. In the meantime, prepare a fairly deep and wide pot on the stove. Heat enough oil so that you can add a single layer of donuts wihtout having them touch the bottom. I put mine on medium-high heat, but you can adjust as you go if needed (everyone’s stove is different). Also, grab a smallish paper bag, (think sack lunch) and make sure it doesn’t have any holes in it. Dump a decent amount of powdered suger in (or cinnamon sugar if that’s what you are using) and set aside. Freedom1x
When the oil is heated, start dropping in the donuts and holes. It won’t take long for them to brown up. Make sure you turn them over to cook the other side and roll the holes around to cook them evenly on all sides. when their done, plop them in the paper bag of goodness, twist up the top of the bag really well and shake them up. Behold, beautiful, fresh donuts at home in no time. Enjoy!
Jen -I’m reading BossyPants right now. My friend gave it to me last month for my birthday. It’s all right. I don’t find Tina Fey’s writing nearly as funny as I find Jenny McCarthy’s books. SHE cracks me up! Have you read any of her’s?
I’m with ya on the B & B works Stress Relief products. Love them!!!
colleen -so i thought .. this is a fluffy, i want post… until the end…..beautiful…!
Lee Ann -Ach! That chair! I have almost the EXACT chair – torn apart in my office. I paid $5!!!! It’s as sturdy as can be with steel springs. It’s OLD and I’m going to re-do it. I can’t believe how much it’s the same.
As for the garmin. For me it’s a total mental thing. If I need to run 6 miles – it helps me count down. You can really do the same thing by “getting to the next corner” or the “next fence post”, but it’s all about knowing where I’m at and how much further I have to go.
Such a fun list!
alicia @ la famille-your list is my list…maybe except for the gowns…unless they come in maternity 😉
love LOVE mad men!! when’s the next season coming?!?!
that stress relief scent is my favorite.
i have a bunch of running stuff from athleta because it comes in longs. and i need that!
great taste, chica 🙂
and that baby?? melt my heart already.
Lindsey -I love your wish list! I have a wish list of both small and extravagant things also. I think the pink chair could definitely be on mine also! Thanks for brining light to Yana.
Laura-nick and i saw a young mom with her tiny baby at mass this morning…and i told nick i wanted a baby.
he said “its a lot of work”
i said “i know. you pull up the car…and i will grab that baby and run…”
i didn’t steal the baby
and i am pretty sure another baby is not in the big plan for us
but who knows….
i came home and cradled the dog
that’ll have to do
Jill Franklin-oooohmygosh I want those shoes too!
I know in my heart Yana will have a family to love her. I hope it’s soon. I’ll be praying & hoping & praying & hoping some more.
Sarah H.-I asked for a donut pan and running clothes this year too! Also, I read BossyPants, well some of it, but didn’t like it so took it back to the library.
That baby is way too precious. I will be praying God puts her in the perfect home He already has picked out for her. Please keep us posted on her!
(i had my settings off on my camera so lets all pretend this is….a newspaper photo…ha!)
she had a great birthday. so grateful and sweet. she wanted ice cream sundaes but i had to get at least one cupcake. we watched one of her favorite movies after dinner. i like that kid a whole bunch.
we had a girls day just the two of us yesterday.
she used her birthday money (and her allowance…she is a saver) for some cute clothes. i loved watching her pick stuff out. she and i are finding our way. me saying "it's ok to not like what i like" when we disagree. or when she says "do you like it?" with a big smile then OF COURSE i like it. i want her to form her own opinions…have confidence in herself and her choices. i am so proud of her when she does.
melissa@joyineveryseason-I had a chance to see a movie but didn’t know anything that was out … so went to see Flight after reading your recommendation … John Goodman was SO FUNNY … and that scene in the stairwell was luminous. It’s stayed with me, too. Glad for your thumbs up … so glad I saw it :o)
Michele -I want to see Flight, but my husband, the commercial airline pilot, does not! lol So I guess it might have to be a girl’s night out!
amy-HaPpy BiRtHdAy to your sweet girl!!!!
girls days are the best! I have “kenzie dates” with my middle daughter. love that one on one time.
~amy
colleen sullivan -I love the black and white photo.. almost as much as the gumballs? That Talby appears to be a joy to raise… helpful post as I have an eleven year old girl child as well!
Dinner… not for tonite but in the future…my hometown has a dish called spiedies… you can get the original there (or even order the meat online and they will send) or make a the next best thing by ordering the sauce, marinating cubed boneless chicken, placing on skewers and grilling. Best served on soft white italian bread that u use to pull the chicken off the skewers. For a healthier version (sans white bread)i serve the meat next to orzo pasta and broccoli and dip them in any extra marinade that might be floating off the chicken. I grill all winter long… but I guess you could do inside under the broiler if you really have to. So quick, so easy, I usually buy the gallon jug! http://www.spiedies.com/original-endicott-style-spiedie-marinade-p-1750.html
Flower Patch Farmgirl-Thank you for loving rated R movies.
Here’s a question: Lars and the Real Girl. Have you seen it?
I have no idea why this just came to mind, but I think you might love it. I am a movie freak. I could go on and on….
Tiffany-Happy Birthday to Talby! She has SUCH a cool mom! 🙂 YES, we do OCC shoeboxes too! My family filled our boxes a few weeks ago so I could share them with my class. I get the whole 5th grade involved in bringing them in!
Amy@littleforalittlewhile-I think that gumball maching may just be my favorite thing in your house. So colorful and happy 🙂
kate-Talby is soooo pretty!!! happy birthday to her!
Lori H -Talby has grown up so much since i started following your blog…a long while ago. She is just beautiful. We already filled our shoeboxes – our church is a relay station so gathers from many churches and takes them to NC. I am making a no-recipe cajun thing…a “what’s in the fridge that I can use” kind of thing. So far, it looks yummy!
Tanya -My sister was always the saver ~ never me 🙂
My kiddos are out tonight – I had an English muffin with peanut butter for dinner. Need the recipe?…lol.
monica -my mom and i fought alot over clothes when i was growing up. and now that my daughter is 11, i know that the clothes she wears is an expression of who she is. i love watching her make her own decisions and watching her grow into herself.
and, the supper situation is always a battle for us ! that sassy 11 year old daughter of mine is also a vegan. so its lots of fun trying to figure out what to fix. Good luck !
Sara Torbett-I loved reading about Talby’s birthday and your relationship. I am about to be a mom to another girl (my second) so I like reading/”watching” how you interact with your girls. 🙂 So glad someone mentioned Parenthood in the comments! I didn’t get to watch last night and will have to catch up. Makes me tear up every single time. Such a good show. We’re having enchiladas for dinner… 🙂
Becky-what to make for dinner is the question of my life too:/
Robin Canter -We saw Skyfall – the new James Bond movie. Really good and you could actually follow the story line on this one. I won’t give it away, but someone dies in it.
Kate-I love that you wrote about shopping with your daughter…I’m already learning to deal with differences in opinions when it comes to clothes, and my daughter is only 4! I loved shopping with my mom, and I’m thankful for the time shared, regardless of our differing styles. Happy birthday to Talby. She’s blessed to have you for a mom!
Jacci in Ohio-I love it when you get really random. The randomer the better 🙂
alicia @ la famille-i want to see that movie too!! glad talby had a great day. she is growing up so much. love her smile 🙂
Kelly -Actually… your enchiladas are on the menu at my casa tonight for the first time… with some black beans….
KirstenP -Happy Birthday to Talby! I love the ‘newspapery’ photo.
Meg, did you watch Parenthood last night? If not, then watch it online
as soon as you can, and then watch this youtube video about one part of the
show. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HU4pE6Vme3k
Shannon-I’ve been wanting to the operation Christmas child for the past few years but always miss the dates, I’ll be picking up my girl from school and heading straight to Walmart today so we can do this!! So glad you mentioned it and I’m looking forward to chickfila for dinner later this week too 😉
Have a great week Meg!
Tiffany-No way he missed the last 4 minutes. No way!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I think its awesome that your daughter is finding her own style, me too! If it makes you smiiiile, it sounds perfect 🙂
Beth Ann -What’s for dinner? I am making Ranch Chicken tonight for dinner. Easy-Peasy and everyone loves it.
I have no idea where the original recipe came from (I wish I could site it), I have made it so often I have it memorized:
In a large baggie shake together:
1 cup crushed corn flakes (could use rice krispies, bread crumbs etc)
1/4-1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese (I shred mine fresh)
1/2-1 packet dry ranch (1 full packet makes it pretty ‘ranchy’)
4-6 boneless skinless chicken breasts (I pound mine out to be the same thickness so they cook at the same time)
dip chicken breasts in melted butter and then into the corn flake – ranch – parmesan cheese mixed and into a greased 9 x 13 baking dish.
Bake at 350 for about 20-30 minutes.
Easy and yummy.
Su@TheIntentionalHome-I want a rusted gumball machine. . .I love your happy pics. . .I am actually a little addicted to your happy pics. I can’t wait for your blog posts to come ot my email (they always come a day late) so I check in periodically to see if you have posted something new. 🙂
We are having crockpot vegetable soup (with sausage in it). Recipe on my blog if you want to check it out. . .you can freeze the leftovers too. My kids love this and I love that it gets veggies in them. Serve it with Saltines and a block of cheese sliced. Here’s the recipe: http://www.susoutter.com/2009/10/crock-pot-vegetable-beef-soup.html
Tracy -Happy Birthday , Talby!! You’re one lucky girl!
Seriously, “what’s for dinner” is the story of my life, too. But SERIOUSLY, what’s for dinner at your house?? I need inspiration!
Southern Gal-This reminds me. This summer we were standing in line getting movie tickets to see Brave. There were three women ahead of us in line with a boy who was about 12. He wanted a ticket to see Teddy which was rated R. They wouldn’t sell it to him, of course. The women were going to see Magic Mike, so he had to go with them since none of them would give up Magic Mike. I nearly fainted. I wanted so badly to invite him to go watch our movie.
Southern Gal-Happy birthday to her! You have close birthdays with those girls!
I’m posting about OCC tomorrow. It did slip up on us this year.
Crock pot black eyed peas with sausage – it’s a good one to put in the pot and forget.
JulianneB -I saw “Flight” this weekend with my hubby for my birthday…Yes definitely R, wasn’t it. We had some talkers around us, and then about halfway through the movie, we hear a kid crying. Next we see his Grandma taking him out of the movie and saying, “Well you got to see what you wanted”. He looked to be about 5….wonder what he wanted to see…unreal. Near the end of the movie, two boys that looked to be about 6 and 9 came in because their movie was over and they watched the rest of the movie with the parents???
sarah j -Pulled pork tacos! Yum!
Jenna@CallHerHappy-Happy Birthday, Talby!
You know, I remember the point in my life where I was trying to figure out what I liked and wanting confirmation from my mom. It’s difficult for a girl, for sure. You’re doing the best thing for her 🙂
Also, gotta love Chick-fil-a!
And, for dinner? I don’t know how you feel about meal plans, but I made a monthly one on my blog, and I couldn’t be happier about it 🙂
Heather Hendrick of the Mercy Project wrote these words about the group and their mission:
There’s an estimated 7,000 children who work in the Ghana fishing industry. Some of these children are as young as 5 and 6 years old. All of these children are slaves.
Today many in our country will take a day off from our jobs to celebrate the social and economic achievements of American workers. No matter if we’re celebrating at home or at the beach, we’re entering into a tradition that has largely been shaped by Labor Unions – organizations that are dedicated to protecting workers’ interests and improving their wages, hours, and working conditions. Today as we lounge around or hang out with friends and family, we’re not only celebrating hard work, we’re honoring fair, ethical working practices and the laws that prevent discrimination, abuse, and child labor in our country. Without these laws in place (and enforced), the most vulnerable members of society suffer.
Who are the most vulnerable? Children.
Today as we’re celebrating the systems in our own country that strive to prevent injustices like child trafficking and child labor, we’re mindful of the many child slaves around the world who are unprotected and the organizations, like Mercy Project, who are working to free them.
As a mother, it’s difficult for me to imagine my children working 14 hours a day, 7 days a week. I’m unable to wrap my brain around the thought of my children engaged in long, hard days of physical labor, eating one meal a day, and then falling asleep at night on a dirt floor filled with other slave children.
Yet this is the daily reality for kids who have been trafficked into the fishing industry in Ghana, Africa.
As with much of Africa, there is a great deal of poverty in Ghana.
Unfortunately, this leaves many mothers in an unimaginable position: sell their children to someone who can take better care of them or watch them starve to death.
Most of the mothers are told their children will be given food, housing, and an education. Instead, the kids are often taken to Lake Volta where they become child slaves and their mothers never see them again.
Thankfully, Mercy Project is working to break the cycles of trafficking around Lake Volta by providing alternate, more efficient, sustainable, fishing methods for villagers – ultimately eliminating the need for child slaves.
Because of the work Mercy Project is doing in Ghana, the first group of children will be freed this month from Lake Volta.
*******please watch this documentary about the issues in Ghana and the HOPE Mercy Project is bringing! *******
Mercy Project is the only NGO working on Lake Volta addressing the injustice of child labor and child trafficking at its root – by strengthening the Ghanaian economy and eliminating the structures that cause the demand for trafficked children.
Whether these ideas of child labor, child trafficking, and modern-day slavery are new to you or you’re aware of these injustices, but need to hear some good news every once in awhile, we invite you to become a part of what Mercy Project is doing in Ghana.
When Mercy Project frees their first group of children this month, we can all celebrate together.
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thank you Heather….
i don't know about you, but when i hear about another kind of injustice i get to where i think about those children constantly. i worry for them. i hurt for them. but i am so excited when i hear about REAL programs that are trying to fix things one step at a time. one step at a time is better than no steps!
what would you do if this was happening HERE to our children? these are children just like ours. no different. everyone deserves a chance!
let's support Mercy Project today. can you donate today? i would LOVE, love, looooove if ALL of my readers donated something today. any amount is worth it. i would love to say "WE support you Mercy Project"
$5.00 can buy you a fancy coffee or make a difference to a child in Ghana. that is pretty amazing when you think about the impact your money can have! you really do count in making a change!
i can't wait to see what can be done through these awesome willing servants!
Mercy Project Facebook and Twitter can you keep you up to date on what's going on daily.
“When the lives and the rights of children are at stake, there must be no silent witnesses.” – Carol Bellamy
Mike Cornelia-The Mercy Project sounds like a great organization. I have been reviewing human trafficking statistics and it is truly sickening to see how prevalent it has gotten around the world. I am even more discouraged with the fact that it has reached it’s way into the United States. It is so infuriating that people engage in this practice to make a living. My hope is that, if enough people find out about child trafficking it will slowly be brought to an end.
sara @ it's good to be queen-this is good stuff. thank you so much for sharing. i so needed to get out of my own head and own space today. thank you.
Carla -It’s a noble cause no doubt and it’s heartbreaking to think of these families broken up in such a horrendous way but it would be wrong to think that child slavery only happens in poor countries like Ghana. Check out Human RIghts Watch new campaign against the abuse of child labor (especially migrant child labor) in the US (hope this link works but if not just google migrant child labor US) http://www.hrw.org/news/2010/05/05/us-child-farmworkers-dangerous-lives
So perhaps while you and your readers support the children in Ghana, you would also take time to read about the plight of migrant children in the US, also victims of poor circumstances, whose parents have also had to make unimaginable decisions. It doesnt even merd to cost you a dime, just try to ensure the food you buy is properly and ethically sourced from
Farms that use properly paid workers whose human and legal rights are respected, ttell your politicians this issue matters to you, small actions add up!!
Katy-i found out about mercy project last december when i ran a local half marathon that benefitted them. i’ve been following them closely on Facebook ever since and was so excited to post about the work they are doing today! this is great- thanks for sharing! 🙂
Lisa -I love the day to day stuff you share and what you shared today. God is using you. Through the computer I can see your hearts desire to glorify Him. Some people may not hear about human trafficking and child slavery except from your blog. And others like me who are striving to make a difference needs to be reminded on days like today. Thank you!
big grasshoppers, big locusts, wasps, bees and dragonflies too. it's to the point where i don't flinch when they come around anymore. the kids are getting better too. before we were all afraid when wasps came around. but it's getting much better. and when we can catch them and observe them for awhile…even better.
country living is pretty great. i am so glad we are here.
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i am a little late in blogging about it but it's never too late to do good. friends of mine Jessica and Kim are part of BIG project to help the people of Sudan. you can read all about it HERE
it cost $0.06 per serving to feed the 200,000 people in Sudan, Africa who are currently dying of starvation. six pennies? oh my. i think we can all pitch in. it's a big faith move to ask that enough is provided to be able to mobilize food to this region. we can help! we all have excess. even when we don't think we do… WE DO! you can donate directly on that site.
go read about their project. and if you want to help julie and her fundraising…for their fundraiser :) you can go to her printables shop and get some really fabulous prints with the Hope project's theme verse.
how about we make a difference today? what a great way to start your Monday! let's be the hands and feet of jesus. let's help feed His sheep.
julie-Crickets. Grasshoppers. Whatevs. I need to come to the country and learn about bugs. Soon.
julie-I love your guts way more than cricket guts.
For reals.
Thank you friend. Soooooo much.
Jade Cook-DONE! Love those girls and love the print. Thanks!!! =)
Emily -We do have so much! Thanks for the print… bought one to add to my hall! It’s a perfect reminder as a mother too.
Stephanie -🙂 we donated too. I tell my kids about the kids in Sudan often and this is a great way for me to show them a tiny way in which we can help.
amanda d-my brother just got back from South Africa and I’ve loved hearing the stories and seeing pictures. skipped Subway today to buy a print – thanks for sharing! 🙂
Becki-Those shots with the grasshopper and the jar with your daughter looking in… stunning!
Krys -The kids and I donated 🙂 We already printed out our turquoise sketch and have it hanging up – it was so easy – and every time we walk by it we can remember & pray for the families in Sudan. Thanks so much for letting us know about this! Just lovely <3
Lacey-I love that you are always helping us be the best version of us. You give us so many different ways to help! I’m going to donate to the Sudan project. Thank you for always showing me a sweet direction for my helping hand. You. Are. Great!
kim-Meg, you are the best. Thank you for having a passion for Africa and it’s people. You are right, it is a big faith move, and God is SO good. As of yesterday, we are nearly halfway to the initial goal! Thank you again for helping spread the word and your heart! Love you! Big, huge, gigantic hugs to you!!!
Jessica Johnson-i love grasshoppers and i love you. no words. thank you.
************************************************************************** you know i have a heart for africa. i hope you know. and with my friend pam moving there this year i have thought about africa every single day. it's true. well today i am talking about 31BiTS, a lovely company that is also from africa. and i pam would love it.
i love 31 Bits jewelry. it's made IN africa by african women who are being empowered out of poverty with income from 31BITS.
i love that the jewlery i wear can have a POSITIVE outcome for someone else. that is so totally cool. it's helping out in a tangible way.
all these beautiful faces make me love this cause and company even more.
i love all of it. so many bright colors….so pretty all together….happy happy jewelry!
the ladies at 31BITS sent me this necklace to give away to one of you!!!
Kiki Dee-Love the Sprout but it’s so hard to choose! They are all such beautiful pieces! Wonderful cause!
Ashley -Love the Meadowsweet necklace!
Krystal Johnson-Love the 87 cuff and the waverly- but love them all!
Faith Buss-LOVING the Timber colors. What a cool company!
Ruth -Love the Mayfair necklace…and the Prim Rose bracelet…but more than that, love what these necklaces represent.
Jamie -The Cypress bracelet is my favorite!!
Heather R. -Love all the pieces. Picked up Sprout and Cypress. Thank you for spoiling us with a coupon code! 🙂
Gevay -I love the Meadowlark necklace. It is all so beautiful though.
meredith-ohhhh, it’s so hard to choose! i love orchid loop (necklace) and pixie row (bridal)!
they’re all so pretty 🙂
Amy -87 cuff for sure. What a wonderful site! Thanks for telling us about it.
mollie's mom-I understand your heart for Africa. I have a heart for Haiti(http://madebymolliesmom.blogspot.com/2012/01/not-crafty-post-im-afraid.html)
I have purchased some of this jewelry from Uganda. I love the idea and the jewelry. A couple of years ago I gave every female on my list a wonderful necklace from Uganda! Everyone loved them and that they helped a woman and her family who were struggling to survive. Great post – I think it’s time for some new jewelry for Spring… 🙂
marcie
whitney f -I LOVEEEEE Orchid Loop!!!! Gorgeous necklace!!
Courtney -What a great site! I love so many! I would pick the Cypress, Meadowsweet, or 87 cuff.
suzi failing -87 cuff
just love it
and your blog!!!!
suzi
Alise -I love the cypress and the heart behind this ministry. 🙂
Tihana -oh whisper zest is so pretty 🙂
Joy-So hard to choose! I think gypsy or 31 Cuff. I don’t know… too hard!
Michelle -Beautiful jewelry. Reminds me of the Beads for Life party my friend and I hosted last year. These women are so beautiful and talented. Can’t wait to check out 31Bits.
Farrah -Oooh! Waverly, Humming Burst, and Timber! What a fantastic mission!
Kathy Eller-Love love love this company and their mission!! I have always thought of their jewelry as a little funky…there is some really classy stuff on that site!!
love the Willow Knot Bridal!!
Melissa -I love the 87 cuff also- so great!
Heidi -I love the bella necklace!
Katie -I have a friend who is a missionary in Gulu! It’s amazing how God is working through so many different people.
I love the Glory Fringe Necklace. The leather is great.
Karenth -I love the Laurel Locke!
Dani -Love Gypsy! I thought it was a ring at first, which would have been awesome! The Daphne bracelets are great! I need one in all colors.
Amy -I big puffy heart LOVE this cause! Their jewelry is so fantastic! I would be proud to wear any of it! I love the bright and cheery Waverly as well as the beautiful Glory Fringe. Thanks, Meg! 🙂
Ashley -Love the Mayfair!
emmeline-hmmm – rockhopper or crushed jewel – but it’s hard to pick! gorgeous stuff!
ang -Cypress and the 87 Cuff!!! LOVE them!!1
Jessica P. -I love the caramel dust necklace! It’s so beautiful!!
Leslie DuRant -What a cool way to help and wear beautiful jewelry!!!! My favorite is the meadsweet in aqua!!! Aqua is my new favorite :}}}} I bought two purses from a market in Charleston, S.C. that were made in Africa. They are beautiful too!!!! I love the giveaway necklace in mustard. It is georgous too!!!
Preethi Narayan -I like Acorn layers and orchid loops!
K -MEADOWSWEET for sure! Everything is LOVELY!
K -OOOH! Love ripple, 87 cuff and a few more! All gorgeous!
Anna Marie-I really like the simple and classic look of the Meadowsweet. My sister’s birthday is in 2 weeks. I think she would love the teal color.
Allison -Are you kidding??? I love them all…thank you so much for introducing me to this cause and this site…I can see many purchases for myself and for gifts in the future!
I never win anything so I went ahead and ordered myself a Meadowsweet necklace in the teal…so pretty! Thank you so much for the code!
Lynne -I want one of everything. What great gifts these will make. LOVE the 87 cuff, but my fave is the yellow necklace(seriously) that is the giveaway. It’s not on their site yet. Thanks for the giveaway-what an awesome company!
Elizabeth-Oh my goodness, what a great company! I love all their bracelets! especially sprout. and thicket and 87, oh my is that the most perfect summer bracelet or what? Thanks for hosting this giveaway and showing off this awesome company! xoxo
Andrea Jeanne -Hard to choose — I like the Cypress bracelst the best (I think!)
Christy -Mayfair…so pretty!
Bobbie-I love the waverly. Seriously the muslin (I’m guessing?) part is so clever and cute!
Denise -I love the Riverbed necklace.
Deb A. -Everything is beautiful. I love the meadowsweet necklace! Such great choices though! Thanks for the chance to win!
nicki -I must agree, the very best would be to meet these talented women face to face! But many thanks for the giveaway…I love the Waverly, Orchard Bunch, Daphne’s, and Meadowsweet. 🙂
shara-i love the bella necklace! (which is also my daughter’s name 😉 everyone at my church has a 31 bits necklace and i’ve been totally wanting one too.
but i REALLY love this one! my favorite color!!!
ko. s-I love the Feather Blu bracelet. Gorgeous items!
Amy -Gorgeous! I love the one that you’re giving away most! I’m going to Uganda this summer! So excited!
Lauren Fortney -love this company!!! how awesome. my favs are the gypsy and the 87 cuff. beautiful…all of it!
Ani G W -I like Thicket and Gwazy Twist. Both are bracelets. I also like the 87 cuff too!
Amber Fussell -Hard to choose because they are all so beautiful and different. I love the Mayfair and the Meadowsweet!
April R -Wind-spark Bridal – white for me and the forget-me-not bracelet for a friend and my daughter
wow…the unique beauty of the smiles of those women…wow
and thanks for sharing this…did I say “wow” already?
Lorie-My sister bought me one of their necklaces a couple years ago for Christmas. I LOVE it. So colorful! I think my favorite is Orchard Bunch (necklace), but I’m totally in love with the one you’re giving away. Who wouldn’t love gray and mustard yellow. Thanks for the opportunity!
Rebekah-The Waverly is amazing – I would choose the blue!
What an amazing company. Thanks for sharing!
Meg Hansen -Meadowsweet or Sprout. But honestly, they are so gorgeous. All of them!
Heather E -LOVE the Sprout and Gwazy Bloom bracelets! What a great cause to support!
Lisa -wow! just. wow! can the world be any more amazing?!
it really is so full of amazing and inspiring people.
can’t pic a favourite!
beautiful photos. beautiful story. beautiful hearts.
xx
Renee-if i win your giveaway, i’ll get the teal “meadowsweet”
if i don’t win, i’ll get the yellow 🙂
i hope i win. because then i can buy one and get one for free!
Julie H. -This is a bit random but I was curious where you found your gray polka dot material that you used for the back drop of the necklaces. I’m looking for something just like that to make for my baby’s bedding. I appreciate your effort to let me know. Thanks!
Kristin S-I’ve seen paper beads before but these are really pretty and more vibrant. Thanks for sharing!
Hannah-i love the one you’re giving away! what a beautiful business!
Stephanie-So many beautiful pieces, I really like the Hazel Belle bracelet.
Thanks Meg!!
ranee-i love the watson braid bracelet…what a great organization…thanks so much for sharing! i just might have to buy some gifts here!
Melanie-Like you, one of my favorites is the 87 Cuff! 🙂
Donna -I love the Crushed Jewel bracelet. Although, truthfully, I love everything in the shop!
kristy -I love The Waverly! But Whisper Zest would be my second favorite. What a fabulous company!
Ronda O. -Gypsy! These designs are beautiful!
Barbara Smith Wilke-I think I love meadowsweet best…. but they are all gorgeous. what a great idea.
Meaghan -Wow! those are all so pretty! I am going to use your code to buy the Orchard Bunch for my dad’s girlfriend. Personally, my favorite is the Willow Knot!
Sarah -I would love the light pink sprout bracelet! 😀 I love all their stuff. So pretty!
Amanda-what an awesome business for these women!! so inspiring.
I’m actually going to Uganda this June 🙂
Michael Ann Anderson -I love the 87 Cuff! I am glad you introduced me to this fabulous company!
Mike mike69361@gmail.com
Melissa -The yellow waverly, the meadowsweet in all three colors or the gwazy bloom bracelet, I loved the color combo on that one! What a great shop, thank you so much for sharing it, I will be purchasing from there for sure!
Liz -I really like it all, but the orchid loop may be my favorite!
Yvonne -Hi Meg…this is Yvonne, I found your blog from “stumble upon” and I love your blog too much! I finished reading all your posts, inclusive of archives until the 1st day you started blogging in 2007 ….all finished in 3 days.
I love the story of your family (yes and Waffle too)
I love the funny pictures of Annie with her butt shown and jumping on the trampoline
But most of all, I love the verses written by Talby on the wall. I love the verses sewn on Talby and Annie’s pillows….and all that you have shared about Jesus 🙂
Love from a far far away land,
Yvonne
Laura Phelps-always so lovely coming here…all you hear and read in the news is BAD…NEGATIVE…what is wrong with the world…
this is refreshing…to see THE GOOD in people
to see people helping
reaching out
educating
loving
all good stuff.
thanks for sharing this!
prayers for your trip to Uganda…(I feel it…:-) )
Tracie -I love the layered look of the Aurora! So pretty and I could get the look without actually getting my necklaces tangled!
jen smith -so hard to choose but i love the feather blu bracelet.
shelli -oh wow. ok. LOVE the glory fringe necklace and love. LOVE. gypsy bracelet…thanks for the opportunity to win and opening my eyes to this beautiful shoppe.
Tracy -They’re all beautiful, but I especially love the Aurora!
Jessica-Love 31Bits. I have a couple of their pieces already & I wear them all the time. I really like the riverbed this time around!
Christy -I love it all, but I particularly love the Sprout. It’s something I would wear all the time.
Gerri-87 Cuff…Love, Love, Love. Thanks for sharing Meg, I love this and I’m going to share it with all my jewelry loving friends.
Becky J -Butterscotch is my favorite necklace..may these dear African women be blessed…Brrrr, everyone keep warm out there today!! 🙂
Lindsey -Wow! Thanks for intruducing us to this business! Love, love, love everything about it. I love the 87 cuff also, also the Orchard Bunch in all three colors. Gift ideas for so many friends and family!
debi brown -87 cuff is beautiful and so are all the women of 31 bits!
Becca -OH my goodness….those ladies’ smiles are radiant and it is obvious how happy people can be without much…..I noticed this when I visited Tanzania to hike Kilimanjaro. The hardest workers were the happiest of all Tanzanians, while the people who were dishonest and wanted to make a dollar without lifting a finger seemed defensive and angry. I do love Africa and wish to explore it more….helping teach, take care of children or volunteering in some way. I spent the last year mailing children’s clothes (that I gathered from the gymnastics school where I work) to children at an orphanage in Moshi that I visited. I love getting pictures emailed to me of the kids wearing the clothes. I show them to the kids at the gym to inspire them to have a giving heart and to know that it IS possible to make a difference. Like these women, who are making a difference in their own lives…..that is the greatest lesson anyone can teach! Sorry for being wordy but I also share in your passion for Africa……oh yeah…I like willow knot bridal….
Halley -Love the idea of empowering women! I love the Glory Fringe necklace and the Cuff 87 bracelet. Thanks!
Stephanie -They are all absolutely amazing…..the product, the cause, the women. I am loving the necklaces that are in the bridal category.
Sarah @ Handbags*N*Pigtails-The Aurora necklace is perfect for any outfit…whether over a plain Tshirt or your best Sunday dress. I love this company and have always wanted to find a store that carried their product so I could see it in person. The discount code may seal the deal for me:)
Julie Wearmouth -Meadowsweet in apple red! Love it! Fantastic company with an awesome purpose.
Virginia Bibler -such a beautiful cause! and such beautiful jewelry…loving the orchard loop and the orchard bunch! thanks for sharing meg….pinning now!
Jessica @ MyArdentLife-I really like the Orchid Loop! Definitely hard to choose just one, though! Great giveaway!
Anna -Beautiful jewelry and beautiful cause. I love the willow knot necklace and the gwazy blue bracelets.
Lisa Shay-meadowsweet – yellow!
These are stunning.
what a fabulous business. love.love.love it!
julie -Love the Blossom Bridal in grey and Sprout!!!!! Another great giveaway for a great cause. You are just awesome!!!
jenni -That is funny, I swear I did not even look at your choices until I had made mine but I definitely love Aurora and 87 Cuff
Katie g -Love the 87 cuff bracelet too.
Peggyrice@gmail.com-I’m so happy you updated your “happy things” side bar. Makes me happy. My daughter’s third grade theme is Africa this year. I’ve emailed her teacher all the links to 31bits and I’ve volunteered to help throw a “house party” at their school in Paris. Love all of the pieces! Thanks for sharing.
Aimee-Oh yay! I love companies who work with women in this manner. One of my favorites is Sseko Designs. Do you know their sandals? I LOOOOVE mine so much!
31 Bits has gorgeous jewelry. I may have to buy myself some for my birthday. 🙂 My favorites are Glory Fringe and Pixie Rowe – Bridal (who says you have to be a bride to wear it?). 🙂
Jenn-Wow. I can’t believe those beads are paper? I loved the waverly necklace the best, until I saw the 87 cuff. LOVE that bracelet. Might have to save up and get it! Empowering women to live life and kick a** at their profession = awesome. Who knows how many lives have been changed by this!
Rebecca W -hmmm i’d love to go order one…..went all the way to check out…but shipping to canada is $25. that’s INSANE!!!!
Melinda -I love the Waverly and the Orchid Loop! Wonderful web site and cause. I will share with my friends and family to spread the word.
Jodi -I love the colorful 87 cuff!!!!
Erin -Meadowsweet is one of my favorites. How do you choose?! There are so many great pieces.
Christy K -I love the Sprout and the Puddle Wrap! Wonderful cause and beautiful pieces! Thank you for the giveaway opportunity!
Cindy-They are all beautiful! Love the Willow Knot, the Gwazy Twist, the Prim Rose. Even their names are beautiful! I sent one of their necklaces to a friend last year for her birthday and she absolutely loves it! She says she gets compliments on it all the time…which in turn gives her the opportunity to share their story 🙂
Chandra -I like the Heritage long.
Caitlynne-I love the aurora! I think it would look so pretty with a sun dress in the summer!
Audrey -I love the Willow Knot! all of them are too pretty to choose just one, my favorite bracelet is the laurel locke
Becky Joyce-Love this company. And I love the orchid, mayfair & aurora. Who am I kidding?! I love them all!!
Angela -They are all so beautiful, but if I had to choose I would say either Whisper Zest (light grey)or Camellia (grey or fuschia).
Maria Burke-Wow, they are all so beautiful! I LOVE the meadowsweet – love all the colours together, but if I had to pick, I think I reeeealy love the yellow. I agree with another commenter – wish they had some African women modeling the jewelery.
amy jupin-those ladies have such happy smiles!
the necklace is so cute but my fave is aurora or maybe hazel belle.
and the website and advertising is soooo cute too!
you have such a good heart, meg.
Southern Gal-I love the Aurora or the Honeyglow…I think. 😉
sandi-87 cuff and nectar loom both bracelets. as well as several of the necklaces and other goodies. seriously, everything is gorgeous and would match well with anything in anyone’s closet. great give away.
Alison K -the waverly! It’s awesome! What a great company and the jewelry is amazing! I think I may buy a few birthday presents. Love the idea of giving while gifting 😉
Nicole-It’s so hard to choose! Everything is beautiful!! I do love the 87 Cuff. I’m into large bracelets and cuffs right now.
Trudy-I love everything about this!! I love the Willow Knot-Bridal. I think I’ll buy it even though I’m already a bride for 12 years! 🙂
Elise -waverly! in blue – love that!
thanks for sharing this awesome company!
Julie L. -Loving the Mayfair necklace – gorgeous tones! Amazing company and product.
Stacey -Ripple is my favorite!
Tina Jacobsen -I love Glory Fringe and Buttercup Necklace!! Beautiful jewelry from amazing and beautiful women!!
allison-That necklace is gorgeous! I would love to have it!
Jennifer -I love the Mayfair. Beautiful!
Mary -Love that waverly necklace – those mustard beads and the cotton neckline!
Michelle-love the Glory Fringe necklace & 87 bits bracelet…so beautiful!
kristi-I love the laurel locke bracelet, but so many of them are beautiful! hard to pick a favorite
Janelle-The Waverly piece is uber gorgeous! I have a very similar necklace from The Apparent Project in Haiti. I’m actually waiting for a box of their beads so I can help promote them!
Jennifer -I love the 87 cuff…
Wendy-Ooooo … so many happy things! I like the Laurel Locke bracelets.
ashley :) -i love the mayfair, meadowsweet and the willow knot – bridal. and by love, i mean, will be purchasing. tough decision which one! i cannot wait to share this site with my friends and family!!
Amber -Love this company! My favorites are the 87 cuff and the willow knot necklace!
Christyn -I love the Willow Knot- Bridal and Caramel Dust.
Tracy -What a wonderful cause! I love the cuff bracelet.
Stephanie campbell-Meadowsweet and blossom bridal. Love that cream bracelet.
What a great company!
Jolene (Homespun Heritage)-~Yes, Meadowsweet is beautiful~ I like too many of them to find just ONE favorite, though!
Megan B -I quite like the Meadowsweet necklace. They are all gorgeous, though. Great cause!
Connie Krebs-What a beautiful line made by beautiful women! I am in love with the jewelry and how simple and attractive the website is. I believe my favorite is The Apple Drape. I am organizing a flash mob for Africa this summer and will definitely keep this company in mind!
Katie Sawrie-They are absolutely beautiful! I love the ‘Glory Fringe’, it would go perfectly with anything. This is a perfect place to use in the future for gifts!
Jenna -Hi Meg,
I am a huge fan of your blog and everything that you support and stand for. I think that what you are doing everyday is just amazing. I am a long-time reader of your blog but this is my first comment…ever! I am getting married in August and with that typically comes a honeymoon. Through reading your inspiring blog posts and by following a life long dream we will be honeymooning in South Africa! I love this post and think that it is an amazing and unique company and business model that more people in the world should strive to create. You are a wonderful person and I just love reading your blog. I truly hope that you get back to Africa soon!
Oh, and of course my favourite product is the bridal necklace Rosy Posy (too cute!)
Kristen -What a great organization! Reminds me a little of ten thousand villages. I loved reading some of the women’s stories. My fav necklace (other than the one being given away) is the Rockhopper. The blue totally stood out to me. Thanks for the giveaway and letting us know about such a great organization…I know where my go to gift site will be from now on!
Danelle -Beautiful! I love the 87 cuff.
Annette -Like them all. Prim Rose bracelet my favorite. What a good cause!
Arlene -Such a good cause! My favorites are the Waverly and Ripple =]
bread and jam-I love all of the bracelets. But the 87 Cuff is my absolute favorite. It’s okay that you like the same one. We’ll just have to decide who gets to wear it on what day. So we don’t look like losers, matching and all.
erica-i love glory fringe! what beautiful jewelry!
Dawn Eshnaur -I absolutely love the Sprout bracelet! Because of your blog, I have ordered numerous things from them! Most of them I have kept, but I have shared as well. I actually wore some of my bracelets to work yesterday! I love what they are doing!
Sarah -I love all of it, Caramel Dust would my favorite…actually meeting the women in person would be a lifelong dream achieved. So beautiful.
Suzy -Meg,
I love Cuff. What a great idea. People are amazing, aren’t they? Thanks for the chance to win and for spreading this news to all of us!
Jamie -I really like Riverbed.
Tanya H-This is awesome! I love Rockhopper, Timber and Camellia. I love the things you share with us!
Trista -I like the rockhopper. I also love that my purchase will help empower other women! Love that. Thanks for sharing Meg!
Rhonda Fendt -Amazing story… amazing womem! Thank you for sharing. I really like crushed Jewel and Riverbed
Emily a la Blog-Waverly is my favorite. I miss Uganda and those beautiful smiles.
Elizabeth gleason-Ohh I want one… I came back from animal kingdom in Disney and they had all sorts of necklaces and I opted for an African cookbook. So glad you shared the web address. It was meant to be!
Becky -I’m not getting married, but I love the Powdered-Tangle necklace!
Karen-I LOVE acorn layers, meadowsweet and the 87 cuff. HAPPY. LOVE this.
Morgan Echtenkamp -What a neat cause and awesome jewelry! My favorites are Willow-knot and Powdered-Tangle.
Lindsay F. -I love 31 bits! My faves are Meadowsweet, Orchid Loop & that 87 cuff!
Tracy -~caramel dust~
Ashley -87 cuff and Pixie Rowe are amazing. And Meadowstreet.
Melissa -They are all beautiful and unique, but I think the glory fringe is my favorite!
Amy-I think the Sprout bracelet is just beautiful! What a wonderful company and way to bring hope and change to someone’s life! Thank you for sharing!
Ann Parsell -Very pretty and love that it’s helping other people. I’m loving that meadowsweet and waverly-drawn to the yellow!
Tracy Sheehy-Oh I am so excited about this ministry. We just found out this week we have a court date to adopt our son from Uganda. We will be heaind there at the end of March!! I love the Acorn Layers necklace but they are all beautiful!
Grace -I love the 87 cuff, so colorful!!! Thanks for sharing, such a great company!
Jermaine D. -Wow, they have really transformed paper bead jewelry and come up with super unique designs! I really like this one you are giving away and the mayfair necklace and watson braid bracelet!
Katy @ Live Laugh Love Craft-Wow.. I am speechless! What an amazing company!!
You were right, it was hard to pick. 🙂 I think my favorite is Meadowsweet – Any of the colors.
Everything is beautiful! Especially the meaning behind it all. <3
Sarah Morgan -I love all of their jewelry – it is so beautiful. I love the meadowsweet necklace..
Gabrielle -All beautiful pieces but I’m loving the 87 cuff!
Vicki-I love the Gypsy cuff! so pretty. Thank you so much for sharing this! I’m going to spread the word for sure!
Tami Veer -I love the teal and yellow Meadowsweet!
lu -Beautiful pieces and a beautiful cause…love 87 cuff.
Regina -Prim Rose bracelet. 🙂
amber@SAHM's musings-Love companies with a purpose. I think the Meadowsweet necklace is pretty!
Ana G -The Bella necklace is very pretty:) Thanks for the chance to win!
Shawna-Really beautiful! My favorites are the sprout bracelet and riverbend necklace. Lovely.
Yby5-What choices and how spectacular they all are! I do love the Glory Fringe necklace, Meadow Sweet necklace and the Starboard bracelet…I can think of so many people that I would buy them for too. I would proudly where any piece and spread the word. Thanks for the chance.
Jennifer -LOVE the Felicity bangles! Will be taking advantage of the discount to support this amazing organization.
Katie -I think the Meadowsweet is pretty adorable, but really, ALL of their jewelry is gorgeous! Would love to win the Waverly!
Lucy F-There are so many wonderful things on 31 Bits! I love the Camellia-Bridal necklace and the Laurel Locke bracelets!
Nichole-I’d have to go for Sprout. I own two of their pieces currently, totally awesome. People love them, so I like to spread the word.
Michelle Whitlow-How cool!!! I love to see stuff like this! So great that these ladies can make a difference 🙂 I looooove that necklace…the bracelet…oh.my.word.
Jackie -Loving the Mayfair!
Yolanda -Glory Fringe or Humming Burst…lovely!!
stephanie-My favorite is probably the Waverly that you have on the blog, but I also love the Mayfair. The yellow really is pretty and it’s not a color I ever wear.
I’m so glad you highlighted this company … I have heard of it, but kept forgetting to look it up! I’ll definitely be remembering it next time I need a gift!
Emily-I would sport the 87 cuff every.single.day. of the summer. I think I may have to go shopping. It’s for a good cause, right?
Brittany-So pretty, I love that they have wedding stuff! My favorite would be pomegranate or 87 cuff. Thanks for sharing, these will make great gift ideas!
Hannah O -sprout and glory fringe! amazing.. thanks for sharing!
Ashley K -I really love the Aurora. But there are so many to choose from. what a great cause.
Cheryl E. -L.O.V.E. 31 Bits!
L.O.V.E Rue
L.O.VE. Timber
L.O.V.E. Mayfair
L.O.V.E 87 Cuff
L.O.V.E. their misson!!
Tessa -I love the Meadowsweet necklace in teal or the Daphne bracelet in yellow. Wow – love the jewelry! I am adding this to my birthday wish list! 🙂
katie-87 Cuff is my absolute favorite! I love your blog. If I were even one bit crafty I would totally want to be at your craft weekend!!
Andrea Siebert -i love everything…and the waverly :o)
Annie -WOW WOW WOW! What an amazing group of women. What a beautiful collection! Thank you for shedding light on such a wonderful cause. How to choose a favorite? Glory fringe, Mayfair, Willow Know Bridal necklace and the Blossom bracelet are simply stunning pieces. I love your blog.
Amy P. -Love these! My favorites are the orchid loop necklace and the 87 cuff. But everything is beautiful!
lalalovely lindsay-i love the meadowsweet necklace! such great choices though! thanks for the chance to win!
lalalovelylindsay.blogspot.com
happygirl-Pretty. I heard they made these from old magazines. I think this is worth supporting. 🙂
Esther Sam-I love the caramel dust necklace, it is by far my favorite!
Kristie B. -I like the 87 Cuff. Looks like it would go with anything and is a good conversation starter!!!
marlie byrd -beautiful creative talented women of uganda! mine would be waverly meadowsweet hyde thicket and i love 87 cuff!!
Robin -It was tough to choose, but I love the Meadowsweet too.
She Loves Life-Wow, everything is beautiful at 31 Bits! My favorite (other than the Ripple Necklace) is the concept that you can help empower other women out of poverty while they are doing something to nuture their creativity AND everytime you wear one of their beautiful pieces it reminds you to think beyond yourself to these beautiful women in Uganda.
Rebecca -How do you choose one? They are beautiful. Thanks for the discount code….I love Willow Knot and it loves me!
Susan Lanthrip -Love Rosy Posy Bridal! Beautiful pieces and a beautiful story.
Seriously Sassy Mama-Orchard bunch, crushed jewel, meadow sweet….who am i kidding I love all of them. I found this shop about a year ago. I love their stuff.
Courtney R. -The Willow Knot Bridal Necklace – BEAUTIFUL!
Amanda-Besides the Waverly (which I adore), I really like the Rosy Posy necklace and the Felicity Bangles in the bracelets!
Naomi Williams-I love the meadowsweet — all 3 colors TOGETHER! Gorgeous! Love this company…wish they had some african women modeling the beautiful wares…
Sarah Wolfe-These are all so pretty. I like the one you’re giving away 🙂
melanie-Is it bad luck to be one of the first to comment? 🙂 I love the MeadowSweet and OrchardBunch necklaces and the 87 cuff as well. This is great for me as I am allergic to metal. Thanks so much.
Anne-Marie P. -I like a lot of it, but I think glory fringe is my favorite! What a great cause!
mollie's mom - I am so excited for you…. I left my heart in Haiti after an amazing mission trip to Port-au-Prince ( actually I was there in April before the “big” earthquake – we experienced a “small” earthquake during our trip that we now know was a “warning quake”!!) It will be a life changing trip – the people of Haiti are incredible. I cannot wait to see your pictures and hear about your trip. I wish I were going with 🙂 You will be amazed by the faithfullness of the people and the beauty they create from nothing in the midst of poverty. I have friends living and working there, we have a school we help support there and their art hangs in my home and I think about them every day when I look at it. I am sooooo excited for you – there isn’t anywhere quite like Haiti!! I blogged about it here- http://madebymolliesmom.blogspot.com/2012/01/not-crafty-post-im-afraid.html- check out those precious faces and prepare to fall in love with the children of Haiti – it’s impossible not to!!! Marcie
Jamie - I am heading to Haiti Feb 26th! I’ve never been and I am so excited to go! Would love to hear more about what you are going to be doing there! 🙂
gretchen - Exciting! Great project. My husband just got back a week ago from Haiti thru our churches mission trip. It was awesome for him. Over 20 in the group went and helped at an orphanage. The biggest help they need is clothes for all the kids. And, adopting or supporting a child at an orphanage with monthly costs. There were 80 kids at the orphanage he visited and 20 plus babies were dropped off when he was there. It’s definitely an eye opener. Hope your trip is wonderful!
Sarah{Handbags*N*Pigtails} - We just got our assignment for our next missions trip this summer(Dominican Republic) and Im so excited! Theres nothing like getting right into the midst of the people, seeing how they live, what they go through,etc… Its very humbling and makes you realize how blessed we are. Have a wonderful(& fruitful!) trip. 🙂
Lisa - I have gone to Haiti twice! So excited for you to go! Can’t wait to hear all about it. 🙂
Lorel - amazing! you put so much good in the world Megan!
Tiffany - WOW Meg! You are going to be there?! I’m so excited for you! This is just the kind of experience I’ve been wanting to have lately. Pat and I talk about taking a tropical trip somewhere, but when there are people in this world who need our help, all I can think about is traveling somewhere where we can help. I can’t wait to hear about your experience and see your pictures. What a wonderful opportunity for you!
PS- I love how you use your site to reach out to more people to help… God sure is using you in many wonderful ways! 🙂
Kate - Are you serious?! That is amazing! Happy dance for you!
Jacci in Ohio - Oh, Megan. Haiti? Haiti?! 🙂
Haiti has my heart in so many ways. Haiti is going to get under your skin in such a beautiful way… I know it. You know it’s the poorest country in the WORLD, right? That it has the most malnourished children in the Western Hemisphere? This is, beyond doubt, one of the neediest places on earth. And, yet, everyone who goes says there is such strength… such joy.
I am so thrilled for you to go. To hear your stories. To watch the Lord use you.
Amen & Amen!!!
(talking to hubby – then sponsoring some stoves!)
Tere - Such great news, I am so excited for you. You are such a brave and amazing woman, such an inspiration! Can’t wait to hear all about it. xoxo tere
chantelle - wow! only one comment so far?!?! I’m so inspired that you are going to haiti! i don’t know your family situation; but from what i can tell, you are an entrepreneurial momma who is really passionate about helping others and you use your creativity to fund your passions… thanks for inspiring me nearly each day for the past three years. kite a fe sa! (let’s do this!)
Melissa @jonahbonah - So very cool, Meg! I would LOVE to go to Haiti!!!!