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Category Archives: christmas

Last minute gifts for the Ladies

December 19, 2016 Filed in christmas,CHRISTMAS GIFT LISTS,GIFT IDEAS

well i wrote this post on sunday night but then my blog decided to break.
it’s back to normal now and it’s probably too late for most people BUT these are still mostly on Amazon Prime so you could still get them by christmas or the day after.
and don’t worry… mot EVERYTHING is rainbow-ed – just some!


Rainbow Colored Knife Set

 

5 Piece Silicone Spatula Set


Amopé Pedi Perfect Electronic Foot File
this is so awesome for smooth soft feet!
i own it and love it!

 

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Living Proof Dry Shampoo
my friend suggested this and i laughed because this is what i’ve been using too!
so YES it had to be on the list.

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Fitbit Alta Fitness Tracker

 

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Hollywood Fashion Tape in a Single Pack or the Value Pack of 3 Tins

i use this stuff ALL THE TIME!
to hold my button up shirts from gaping across my chest… to hold my shirt to my skin to keep it from sliding too low… to hold a hem that’s coming loose…. to keep your bra strap from showing… to keep your strapless bra up where you want it…
i love it.
this would be a GREAT stocking stuffer!

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Hand Lettering  (An Interactive Guide to the Art of Drawing Letters by Megan Wells
this girl has such crazy artistic talent!
i love everything she makes – including this book.

 

DIY Woven Art by Rachel Denbow

 another super talent is Rachel and this book!
you will love this book about weaving that she wrote this year.

14″ Weaving Frame or the 20″ Weaving Frame
after reading that book you will definitely need a loom to get started right away!

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90 Degree by Reflex High Waisted Leggings

i’ve talked about these leggings many times.
i love them because they are thick and they go WAAAAY up.

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Knit Cable Infinity Scarf

i know this is just chapstick but i looooove this candy cane flavor.
i buy a bunch every december to last the whole year.
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Mini Umbrella in lots of colors & patterns

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Nesting 9 Piece Food Prep Set

this is just happy!  i would love to give this as a gift!   🙂

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Singer Heavy Duty Sewing Machine           Fabric Scissors           Sewing Machine Carrying Case

i love this sewing machine! we use these at the Craft House.
good fabric scissors are a must.
and your sewing machine will be much happier living inside a case to keep it from getting extra dusty.

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         Self Healing Cutting Mat                    OLFA Rotary Cutter

i use these four products (above and below) every time i sew.

   Acrylic Ruler                          Ruler Grip with Double Suction Cup

 

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Pom Pom Maker Small Sized Poms and Large Sized Poms
these are so fun to use!   you can make all sizes!

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Extra Fine Glitter – Set of 24 colors

i just love glitter!

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JOCO 16 oz Reusable Glass Coffee Cup

 

.Emily Ley’s Simplified Planner

this isn’t available by christmas but this is just so great i had to share it!

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Wet Brush Pro

 


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Wristlet Clutch Organizer Wallet

this was also on the teen girls post because they are super cute!
they come in over 30 colors so you don’t have to get neon green or hot pink… ha ha ha.

. Snow Boots
i think these are all soooooo cute!

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these are books i love and books i want to read this year.

Tattoos on the Heart                          Falling Free                           Assimilate or Go Home                   Love Does 

Looking For Lovely                      For the Love                    Giddy Up Eunice                Made Well

Talking As Fast As Can                    Wildflower                        Where Am I Now?                         Riley Unlikely

because crack is illegal                   All The Pretty Things                   How to Be a Wildflower              All You Ever Wanted


add a comment

Lori - Fun list! My mom gave me a Pedi Perfect, and I thought it was the strangest gift. But, it’s awesome and I really love it. The fashion tape is really useful too!

Kathie - Love your lists each year!! This one is always fun and full of things I would just get for myself 😛

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Christmas Gift Ideas for Teen Boys

December 17, 2016 Filed in christmas,CHRISTMAS GIFT LISTS,GIFT IDEAS

i hope these lists help with your shopping!
i know it’s close to christmas but i am pretty sure there are lots of you that aren’t quite done with your shopping.
everything on this list is available on Amazon Prime so you still have time!
there are 2 or 3 things that are from Dick’s Sporting Goods but they have free shipping & guarantee arrival before christmas or it’s free!

i love to give gifts so these lists are one of my favorite things to make!
i hope to make one more list for grown ups!

don’t miss my post about Gift Ideas for Tween & Teen Girls 

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SUPERFIGHT
Combine character and attribute cards to make ridiculous fights & argue over who would win
we have this game and it’s quite entertaining!

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Sandwich Toaster
we love this!
it’s nice to just wipe it clean and not have to dirty more pans!

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 Portable Bluetooth Waterproof Speaker for the shower, beach or pool

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Funny Nose Pencil Sharpener

 

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What If?: Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions
this is a very cool and interesting book!

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Microsuede Slippers

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XBOX Live Gold Membership
gamers in your life would looooooove this!

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Charging Station for XBOX ONE
if you have an xbox at your house – you need this.
you will finally be able to find a AA battery again when you need one!

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Bacon Lip Balm

 

Bacon Air Freshener

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Slouchy Beanie Hat in many different designs

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Top Ramen Rapid Cooker  for the boys who looooooove their Ramen!

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Balaclava – Windproof Mask
this was a huge hit last christmas at our house.
it’s not something you “need” until all of a sudden it snows or freezes and then it’s the best thing ever!

 

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an Electric Shaver is just a staple for dudes.
shaving with a real razor is for grandpas…  today’s guy want ease, speed and no cuts.   🙂

Wall Mounted Mini Basketball Goal
extremely sturdy shatter-proof goal with a breakaway rim… mounts to studs in the wall.
we have this at our house and it’s AWESOME!
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if the wall mounted goal is more money or time than you were looking for –
the Over the Door Mini Basketball Goal is a great solution!
easy set up…. portable… guaranteed fun!

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Funny Sign T-shirt

 


Ask Me About My T-Rex T-shirt

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Ninja Disguise T-shirt

 

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or just a regular soft Plaid Microfleece Bathrobe


i know this has a girl in the photo but this Bean Bag Chair is a great gift for guys!
there are also many bigger sizes of these.
sean got the GIANT XXL Bean Bag Chair for christmas last year and LOVES it so so much!

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Minimalist Avengers Poster
i actually LOVE this poster!  it’s a classier more creative take on what can often be such a cheesy market.

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Movie Theater Gift Card
it’s always more fun to go out to a movie when someone else is paying for it!

.Key-tars Electric Guitar Shaped Key Covers
these are so awesome!

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this Microwave Egg Cooker makes one egg the perfectly sized for making McMuffin Sandwiches!
we have this and use it all the time!

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GoPro HERO – a camera that is great for active people on the go!
bluetooth & wifi enabled, waterproof & rugged – completely changing the world of video for this generation of teens!

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Every Man Jack Body Wash
because boys don’t necessarily want to be stinky.


AAA Emergency Road Assistance Kit
great for teen drivers to have in case of… emergencies!

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Toilet Night Light
you totally know that this invention is GENIUS!!!
no more turning on the lights when you have to use the bathroom in the night – blinding yourself or waking others up.
and not to mention the messes that won’t be made…

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Eagles Nest Outfitters (ENO) Hammock
this could be the best thing on the whole list.
these are crazy popular… go anywhere… dry quickly… super heavy duty… SO MUCH FUN!

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NBA Star Socks

Lebron  James      –       Steph Curry     –     Kareeem

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Worst Case Scenario Survival Handbook
a humourous book about everything you would ever possibly need to know if faced with wild situations!

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Portable Bluetooth Speaker
this is great for taking music anywhere you want!
we have one of these and it gets TONS of use.
it has excellent ratings on amazon AND it’s super inexpensive.

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Star Wars Accordion Sun Shade
this made me smile so big!  what a funny gift for a teen driver!

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Lego Light Up Alarm Clock:   Superman  –  Batman  –  Darth Vader  –  Storm Trooper  –  Yoda  –  Boba Fett
even though they are growing up… these would make great gifts for those boys in our lives!
they are 7 – 9 inches tall.   🙂

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MLB team logo ball cap

 

Portable Power Bank to charge your phone anywhere!

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an Amazon Gift Card is truly the best gift for picky teens because they could buy almost ANYTHING they would want.

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a New Gym Bag to haul all their gear around from practices & games

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leave a comment here if i’ve missed anything that you think is a great gift for boys!
and i’d love it if you pinned this post for me too!
🙂

add a comment

Jill - Oh, man, I used to have those keytars and LOVED them! 🙂

Ashley - Glad you posted this. I laughed hard because we got my boys the TRex and ninja shirts. They’re priceless! The hammock is amazing, too!

Library Momma - I love that you do these lists for both boy and girl. I look forward to the each year! I have an almost 9 year old and wrack my brain but this helps! It also gives me ideas as my kids get older, and even occasionally for my husband or myself! Thank you!! So fun!!

alice h - Great ideas! My 16 year old has a ton of hats so I bought him a hat rack from Bed Bath and Beyond (https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/perfect-curve-cap-rack-pro-trade-in-white/1043060948?Keyword=hat+rack).
He is also getting Madden 17 and a Kayak (cheaper one from Walmart).

Jessica - My husband makes these – a super fun gift for music lovers! Mint tin amps for MP3 players or electric guitars.
https://www.etsy.com/shop/ampoids

Patti Mullican - You always have such great ideas – I love your lists!

Lori H - Great ideas, Meg! My kids are a little older, but I was still ordering and pinning like crazy! Merry Christmas!

Kelly - I bought the What If? book for my brother for Christmas after hearing about it on a podcast. I am glad to hear it gets your recommendation too! Kelly

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christmas ideas for teens & tween girls

December 15, 2016 Filed in christmas,GIFT IDEAS

well it’s ALMOST Christmas!
this post is coming out later than i’d like it to be (because – life)
BUT i made sure to put everything available through Amazon Prime so you can get anything on this list in time for christmas morning!
amazon prime is the best thing since the DVR!!!
this list is full of ideas that almost any teen or tween girl in your life would enjoy receiving.

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yummy donut pillow

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Spec-trix – a card game for Color Lovers

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Infiniti Pro Hair Dryer by Conair

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Style Station to keep hair accessories organized in the bathroom

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Maybelline New York Lip Studio Lip Color Palette
(i use this everyday!)


41oo9k2udwlMaybelline New York The Blushed Nudes
(and i use this everyday too!)
it looks small but both of these palettes are about the size of your hand – palm to finger tips.

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12 Piece Makeup Brush Set

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Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual
this book was on the list last year too because it’s GREAT!

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Clarisonic Mia 1 Speed Sonic Facial Cleansing Brush System

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91venteej0l-_sx522_or if you want to save $100 – Oil of Olay has a very similar product that will also keep your teens face extra clean!

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the Bed Head Wave Artist gives distinctive masterfully sculpted waves.
my daughter has this and loves the look it gives to her hair.

.xmas2Cosmetic Bag

a must have for any girl to hold all the STUFF they like to use on their face & hair!

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xmas1a towel wrap is always nice for teens to put on while getting ready for the day
keeps makeup or products getting on your clothes!

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55e87bc5c6399baf3cd38698-w1000_h1000Rainbow Colored Playing Cards
how much fun are these cards?!!!
i want these for ME!

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mttdyc15_webUNO emoji card game
same UNO game just with a fun twist on the design   🙂

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81ygzj8u9kl-_sl1500_Set of 48 Colored Pencils in a Roll Up Case
annie got this set for her birthday and she loves it!

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this would’ve made me SO HAPPY as a teen!
every girl should have a disco ball in her room… don’t ya think?

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81tlb4wo2l-_sl1500_my girls LOVE our Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 Instant Film Camera

honestly – it’s just kind of nice to have something different than their phones!
if they are using this camera… they can’t be on snapchat.
HA!


and don’t forget the extra film!

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51ivgv1xtrl-_sx425_because who doesn’t need this?
Handicorn
there are several other animal options too.
so silly!

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Hair Chalk – a nonpermanent, inexpensive way for teens to put fun colors in their hair.

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51ulseswwplbluetooth speaker for the shower, beach or pool that hooks up to your phone

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Power Bank to charge their phones anywhere at anytime.

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PopSocket is a stand or grip for your phone or tablet and all the kids love these things!

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Clip-on Phone Lens Kit – wide angle, fish eye and macro
these are a cool way to change up the regular pictures you can take with your phone.
maybe they will make lots of new artistic photographers!

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crazy cute ice cream sundae socks

 

cute aztec print sweater poncho

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these Sneaker Balls are great for stinky shoes!
there are tons of different designs & colors.

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super soft plush robe

 

polka dot rubberized hard case covers for MacBook
i think these are the cutest!
i want ALL the colors!

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these are really cool dot-to-dot books with animals or famous faces cities.
by the time they finish each page, they have completed a work of art!

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Post This Book
an interactive journal that empowers kids to rediscover creativity & fun – and post the results to social media.

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blanket scarves for every possible outfit

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 knitted fingerless gloves in several different colors
as moms or grandmothers we look at these and think “you’ll freeze in those!”
but kids want to their fingers out for phone access and they don’t ever get cold anyway.
ha ha ha  😂

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photo display stand for all their rad pics
i love this!
it’s under our tree this year for sure.

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these Letter Light Boxes are so much fun!

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a Wristlet Clutch Organizer Wallet available in over 30 colors!
these can hold their phone too!
GREAT GIFT!!!

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this mermaid tail blanket is a hot item for this christmas!

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 these books are all excellent choices for teens or tweens to grow in their relationship with Christ, love others and to understand more how God sees them as the amazing girls they are!
all girls need more encouragement to be who they were created to be!
Liked by Kari Kampanis
Journey to Freedom by Elisa Pullium
10 Things for Teen Girls by Kate Conner
You’re God’s Girl by Wynter Pitts
Cherish by Vicki Courtney
What About Me? by Vicki Courtney
Graceful by Emily P. Freeman
Live Original by Sadie Robertson
Jesus Today by Sarah Young
Perfectly Unique by Annie Downs

 


happy shopping!

leave me a comment if you found a great gift this year that should be on this list!
i’ll add it if i can find it!

i would love if you pinned this post (the image below)!

add a comment

alice h - Ordering my daughter that Style Station (she’s leaving me for college next year). And I am ordering myself that Maybeline makeup! My daughter is getting a couple of Kendra Scott jewelry pieces also. Along with makeup and clothes.

Michelle from Australia - Thanks for the inspiration. I bought a light box for my impossible to buy for 13 year old!

Jen - Love this! But, I can tell you from personal experience, the sneaker balls DO NOT WORK. Don’t waste your money. I haven’t found one single product that can combat the stench of smelly boy athletic shoes! Ick!

Now………those rainbow cards are THE BOMB!!

Merry Christmas!

Christy - I bought the Olay Pro X, thanks to your rec and I actually bought it for my teenage son. Boys, needs good skin too. 🙂 The aesthetician recommended he exfoliate for stubborn acne and now I don’t I have to share.

tonya - i need the same kind of list for tween boys!!! Soon!

Debbie H - I agree! What a great job THIS is. You always have good ideas, but hit it out of the park this year! I thought I was done, but now a couple of these have me thinking. Always another reason for a gift later in the year. Thanks, Meg.

And received my Xmas garland. LOVE IT! Squares are larger this year – so it looks great with my older garland from you. Thanks for always sharing with us! And the merriest of Christmases to you and your swell family! Sending you stress free vibes! (I’m sending them to me too – my girls arrive home late the 19th) 🙂

Wendy - I cannot tell you how helpful this is!! I was finding it so hard to get inspired when searching for gifts for my sweet tween daughter. I can tell you right now I’m ordering at least a half-dozen of your suggestions! Thank you so much, Meg!

From a fan in Seattle 🙂

Kristin S - What a great list!

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our christmas

January 1, 2016 Filed in christmas

so i wanted to start the new year blog posts with something thoughtful and inspiring.
but…
all my kids are home.
and i have had MAYBE four hours of alone time in the last 15 days.
so there is nothing in my brain to share that is thoughtful or inspiring.
blank.
i’m hoping for some goal setting & inspiration starting on tuesday morning.

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i kept my christmas decor much less than previous years.
a little but not overkill.

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my Lindsay Letters canvas is my new favorite piece!

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talby and annie worked together and made their first cheesecake for their gift to craig for christmas.
he said it was the best gift he’s ever gotten.
🙂
Pam’s  Cheesecake is SO CRAZY GOOD!

every christmas eve we have the tradition (like many others) of new pajamas.
i try to set them out before we leave for church and then everyone gets comfy when we get back.
this year they got slippers too.
AND craig i got his first pair of pj pants and slippers too!
he finally gets what all the hype is about!
ha ha ha
but they was our first year to attempt matching jammies for the girls since all 3 can wear women’s sizes now.
whaaaaat?

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back to talking about church though… christmas eve church is such a beautiful thing!
i ALWAYS need it.
every year.
no matter how “together” i think i have it because usually i am exhausted & barely holding it together by christmas eve.
i am always caught up in the gifts and the busy-ness even though i fight it like crazy.
and i admit almost every year i convince myself that i don’t need to go… i’m too busy… i have too much to do.
but we go and once again christmas eve church service brings it all back into perspective.
jesus is why we are doing all this celebrating.
my heart is filled.
we watched all our holiday movies that we love… Elf, Home Alone, Christmas Vacation and It’s a Wonderful Life over the week leading up to christmas. That is one of my favorite traditions.
i love movies.
(sidenote: recently i was having a conversation about a movie i went to and the person said “i don’t really believe in going to movies”.  i was speechless.  it wasn’t a religious thing… just they don’t like movies.  i had no words.  because I. LOVE. MOVIES!)

christmas morning.
we started with breakfast that craig made… bubble loaf and egg casserole.
and a BIG coffee with a candy cane and whipped cream for me.

last year i shared their stockings after christmas but i forgot to take those pics this year.
but here is a run down of some things:
GIRLS – coconut shampoo, toothbrush, make-up brushes, notebook, face wash, coffee, bath poof, mascara, eye brow pencil, chapstick, undies, socks, hair chalk, shower speaker, frappacino and Ramen

BOYS: socks, ski mask, socks, notebook, an air pump, nose shaped pencil sharpener, shower speaker, hostess cupcake, underwear, Nutella, gatorade gum and Ramen.
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instead of legos and dolls… they ask for shoes, a bean bag, a bike and a 10 piece pots& pans set.
🙂

IMG_0293IMG_0294IMG_0410annie picked this mug for me.  (heart eyes!)

now that the kids are older they also pick their own gifts for their siblings.
i really really like to see them pick things out, wrap them up and then see how proud they are to give their gifts.
i think that is my new favorite part of christmas morning.

 

add a comment

Stephanie Wilson - Movies are my FAVORITE. I have a 20 movie to do list just from all the best of 2015 articles I can’t stop reading! I love your pictures, they always make me happy. And your beautiful nails are shaming me into doing mine.

Emily - Meg…so glad to see you are blogging more lately. You add a smile to my day!

jennibell - I enjoy reading your blog so much because we seem to be in the same stage of life. I loved your comment about allowing the kids to pick each other’s gifts. This is the first year that ours really did that and did it on their own and with their own money. I was so pleased to see how they just “get” one another. They picked out some really great gifts for one another.
thank you for sharing your Christmas! I will be checking in with you and following along throughout 2016. Happy new year!

amy jupin - sure wish you would have posted your decorating pics earlier so i could steal all the ideas!
btw, the stocking ideas were PERFECT this year.
and cheesecake as a gift? BRilLAnT!

Sabrina - Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Thanks for sharing your lovely pictures and traditions. I love movies too, especially going to the movies. I have several friends who say things like, “I just don’t get the whole going to the movies thing”. WHAT?!!! It’s shocking to hear that. We don’t get out to movies as much as we like because our kids are so little, so it’s a really big deal when we do get out to one. Otherwise we watch movies almost every night.

Michele - Sounds like you had a lovely Christmas. My favorite part of Christmas this year is also watching my kids excitement in giving to their siblings. So sweet!

Amy - Aww…thanks for sharing your Christmas! It looks like so much fun! I felt the same way about going to church on Christmas Eve. I’m so glad we went, though. I always love it! Best to you and your sweet family in 2016!

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Giant List of Gifts for teen girls

December 16, 2015 Filed in christmas,CHRISTMAS GIFT LISTS,GIFT IDEAS,things i love

i had several requests for a list for teens and tweens so i asked my girls… poured over the internet… looked around our house… and came up with this list!

i hope it helps with your christmas shopping!

SUPERskinnysideways

brush
cute & colorful Hair Brush…. these were from Forever 21

SUPERskinnysideways
20476
Pilot Frixion Colors Erasable Marker
erasable markers?! YES! they are REAL!
super fun gift!

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scarf
BIG scarves are EVERYWHERE!
these were each from Target.

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ProX by Olay Advanced Cleansing System with Facial Brush
great for any age but wonderful for teens changing skin and for only $20!
whaaaaat?!! that 1/5 the price of a Clarisonic!

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img-thing-4
Under Armour Headband
it’s always nice to get a new one since my girls use them to get all sweaty everyday.
🙂

SUPERskinnysideways
14729698 twinkle lights for their bedroom
Target

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Live Your Life perfume from American Eagle.
i thought all of their scents were pretty good actually.

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Hair Chalks – 24 Non Toxic Temporary Hair Dye Colorthis looks like A LOT of fun!
i love letting kids get silly with their hair!

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SUPERskinnysideways

unicorn+puke
a candle that smells like Unicorn Puke!
which smells quite a like starburst or skittles.

SUPERskinnysideways
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Nike Elite Socks
my kids are crazy for these socks.

🙂

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SUPERskinnysideways

516IQUcx3qL._SX335_BO1,204,203,200_Devotions for Real Life
a book for girls encouraging and teaching them to spend time
with God’s word to experience personal growth and application!

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SUPERskinnysideways

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Perfectly Unique: Praising God from Head to Foot
a book to encourage every girl in the way God created her!

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For-Girls-Like-You-Devo-Cover-1 For Girls Like You: A Devotional for Tweens
for the younger teen…

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jesuscallingteensJesus Calling
a devotional for teens

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pjs:jpg
Union Suit Pajamas!
these are available almost everywhere and teen girls love them!
🙂
(kohls ….. target ….. forever21)

.SUPERskinnysideways

71ucZzPMiQL._SL1001_
Stay Wild at Heart 2016 Wall Calendar
no brainer.
Katie Daisy’s calendar is prefect for girls!
(and their moms too)

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SUPERskinnysideways
61sx6nGodBL._SL1134_Makeup Brush Set
new makeup brushes are so nice to get.
and if they are new to makeup…. it’s a great way to start… learning the right way from the beginning.
.SUPERskinnysideways

k2-_1adbe02d-d543-41f0-a741-2b1682e384cb.v1
Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual: For Everyone from Beginner to Pro
don’t you wish you had Bobbi Brown teach you how to put on make up when you were a teen?!
that would’ve been so helpful!
and actually… i think i will order this for me FOR NOW because really… i have no clue and i’m 40!

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SUPERskinnysideways

shampoo

Organix: Tea Tree Mint Hydrating Shampoo + Conditioner
Organix: Nourishing Coconut Milk Shampoo + Conditioner
i talked about how much i love these in the previous post.
they smell great and it feels fancy!

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SUPERskinnysideways

35007954_102_bHeadphones at Urban Outfitters come in many fun colors
but honestly these Sony’s work just as well if the UO headphones price is too high.
34f9e4bd0ed91e280ec0cdeabc72f30d

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SUPERskinnysideways

nails
Nail Polish
we like the polish at Forever 21 because they always have fun colors
and they are very affordable.

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EX1118_gift-cl
canvas and wall art from Francescas

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SUPERskinnysideways

booksColor Your Way to Calm
Just Add Color: Geometric Patterns
Just Add Color: Botanicals
Fantastic Cities
and 24 Colored Pencils  for completing fabulous works of art
in these fun coloring books for big kids and grown ups.
my girls bring these to church and it keeps their hands busy but they can still listen.
and i love to join in as well!
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1426_7648_274_fstylish Fur Hat from American Eagle

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speaker

 

SoundBot Bluetooth Wireless Shower Speaker
so you can listen to all your favorite music even in the shower!
🙂

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paint
Watercolor Paint Set
this is my favorite paint set!
it’s pretty to look at… fun to use… and an excellent price!
$5 at Micheals!

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tape
Neon Washi Tape Set
& All Kinds of Washi Tape
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PureSpa Essential Oil Diffuser  to make their bedrooms smell amazing!

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The Glam Caddy to hold your makeup but keep it easily accessible.
and help keep the bathroom clean(er)!

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chargerPortable Phone Charger
so wonderful and helpful to have these when you have no access to an outlet!

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Eye Lash Curler

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Selfie Stick
it is pretty much a teen girl must have.
🙂

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Burt’s Bees Facial Cleansing Towelettes

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cute slippers at Old Navy
they come in several colors as well… to match your jammies of course!

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61V1QM1O23L._SL1053_Gift Cards to the Movie Theater
gift cards may not be the most fun gift but teens LOVE them!
paying for a movie night is a total treat!

 

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add a comment

Michele - Hope your doing a list for 2016…this one really helped me last year!!

favorites from the internet | - […] the years, Meg has pointed me to some of my favorite things including this travel diffuser. While I’m on the subject of my girl-crush Meg Duerksen, I bawled my way through her […]

Linda - Makes me want to go shopping! Any ideas for teenage boys?

Amy Woods - It’s possible that I am a teenage girl in a 43 year old woman’s body, because I kinda want all these!!!

And, Meg dear, got a list in you for teenage boys? I’d love to see your take on that! I’m pretty much done shopping for my 18 year old young man, but I still need some stocking stuffers!

Rebekah - I’m pretty much set for this year, but I’m pinning this for next year. My oldest will be 10 by then. (WHAT!?!?)

L.M.B. - Meg, This is a PERFECT list! I’ve ordered 6 items on your list from Amazon (a few I had already ordered, and a few because of YOU!). Thanks so much. I’m really exited. 🙂

Ann - Love both of your gift lists! It’s always great to have ideas. Thank you!!!

meg duerksen - I bought the long black leggings and I wear them with all my long sweaters because I’m obsessed with the high waist!!! 🙂

Sasha K - I know this list is for teen girls, but I wanted to say thank you for sharing about the magic yoga pants.I got the 90 Degree By Reflex for all my best gal pals and it made the gift buying/shopping experience so easy Pease this year! More time to focus on the holiday!
Best to you and yours!

Kristin S - I’ve been looking for a less expensive diffuser. Thanks for the recommendation!

Signed,

A 44 year old teenager. 🙂

Liz Hurst - Great ideas! I can’t wait to go shopping now!

Kelly O. - Your lists are sooo helpful!!

jamie - such a FANTASTIC list.

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my giant list of good gifts

December 14, 2015 Filed in christmas,GIFT IDEAS,things i love

ok… i realize this could be too late to post this but i can’t stop writing this list so i figure if i just get it out of my head i can move on.
this is my huge list of things that i think would make great gifts at anytime… not just christmas.
there are all kinds of price ranges…. and every category.
these are things i use nearly everyday and things i love.
maybe it will help you get those last few gifts you need to finish up your christmas shopping?
i made it crazy easy with links to everything because i like you.
and to make it extra fun… no companies know i wrote this… it’s all purely what i like because i like it… no advertising!
high five!

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katiedaisy

anything by Katie Daisy

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Flow Yoga: Elements of Yoga: Air & Water with Tara Lee
this is my favorite Yoga dvd!

0e55697e3dee530d9dd3c3cb2b447930YogaAccessories High Density Yoga Mat

(makes practicing yoga much easier when you have the proper gear)

leggings
Polka Dot Leggings …… High Waist – Power Flex Capri …… Striped Leggings

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500-100136905-847__1Heated Mattress Pad

i think i would have frozen to death by now if i didn’t have this!  😉
my girls also have them on their beds.
it makes getting into bed each night so cozy!
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Keurig Brewing System

i am the only one in my house that drinks coffee.
With the Keurig i don’t waste coffee anymore.
i used to make half a pot or even a full sometimes and end up pouring out so much everyday.
the Keurig makes a perfect cup every time!
and it is great for multiple coffee drinkers who like different strengths of coffee… no one has to settle.
🙂
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and if you didn’t want the big investment of the Keurig… i saw this
Single Brew Coffee Maker in a super cute color at Urban Outfitters.
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Eureka Cordless Vacuum
no one probably thinks they want this as a gift until you never have to sweep with a broom again!
and then they will be so grateful for this awesome gift!
we have all wood floors and this is MY FAVORITE!
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61sx6nGodBL._SL1134_ Makeup Brush Set

it’s always nice to get a new set of clean fresh brushes… it just is!
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Lighted Makeup Mirror
i wish i hadn’t waited till i was 40 to start using this.
these are amazing!
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mukluk
Muk Luks Women’s Grace Folklore Slouch Boot
i think these are quite possibly THE CUTEST slippers i have ever seen!
i don’t have them but man…. i sure do want them!
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Warm Bootie Slippers at Target
these are super comfy and a friendly price point for slippers.
i do have these!
🙂
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michelle
Allen Designs Shopper Bags

i use these big bags every. single. day.
they are very sturdy, they hold A LOT and i get compliments everywhere i go.
high five to my friend michelle for her awesome bags!
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spoons
Happy Face Spoons!
i mean who wouldn’t smile when you give them that?!
they are so much fun!

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Super cute Booties at Target
there are booties everywhere and in all the price ranges.
they are my favorite kind of shoes right now.
it took me awhile to get on board but now i LOVE them.
but i still love my tall boots too because my ankles get so cold!
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lisaLMama Necklace by Lisa Leonard for Dayspring
i don’t have this either but i saw it and thought “auuwwww…. this is so pretty!”
it’s just right.
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EleganceSilver_72704Cocktail Shaker
everyone needs one.
the end.
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shampoo
Organix: Tea Tree Mint Hydrating Shampoo + Conditioner
Organix: Coconut Milk Shampoo + Conditioner

i am not a fancy lady.
this is the most that i splurge on hair care.
you can get it at any grocery store or big box store.
but it smells SOOOO GOOD!
i like the tea tree for all winter because it smells like mint.
and i love the coconut milk all summer because it smells like i live in the tropics.
and they carry a ton of other scents but these are MY favorites.
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29316_XXX_v1Bottle Vase with Wood Holder

i found this at World Market this year.
it’s so pretty and simple but makes a statement with just  a few flowers.
this would be such a nice gift to open.
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Ninja Professional Blender

i use our Ninja several times a week.
it’s a total boss.
I don’t know how i ever used a small blender before this?
no joke.
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Adele – 25
i mean… everyone in the world needs this album.
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movie1
Sleepless in Seattle  ……. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty ……… The Bourne Trilogy

movie2
It’s Complicated ………. Bridesmaids ………. You’ve Got Mail

movies4
The Help ………. Elf  …….. It’s a Wonderful Life

movie3
Crazy, Stupid, Love ……….. Almost Famous ………… Julie & Julia
those are my favorite movies.
if there are any you haven’t seen you should at the very least RENT them.
but i watch them over and over so we have all these dvds at our house.
and if you come over i will probably make you watch them too.
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Bethe Rope Necklace by Noonday

a classic and beautiful necklace that also helps empower women through employment in Ethiopia.
win- win!
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PureSpa Diffuser  for Essential Oils
it’s nice to have more than one diffuser if you have more than one room in your home.
🙂
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LLcanvas anything by Lindsay Letters!
ANYTHING.
that girl is all talent.
i love everything in her shop from her mugs to her giant canvases!
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.Message Cover Feb 2015
The Message
this is my favorite translation to read in the bible.
the description reads: “Written in everyday English – how people speak in their homes and in the workplace –
The Message will bring more understanding and meaning to the Scriptures.
Passages that seem familiar will come alive. 
The Message can help readers “Read. Think. Pray. Live.”
it’s still the bible but without all the thys and thous and begats.
🙂
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26399931New Pajamas!
everyone loves a new pair of pjs… it’s a fact.
or it should be.
and these are the ones i will be sporting christmas morning 2015!
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61rm80buPaL._SL1000_KitchenAid 5-Qt. Stand Mixer in Canopy Green
every woman wants this green mixer.
oh wait… maybe that is just me?
ha ha ha
but KitchenAid Mixers come in 35 different colors so you could get or give the perfect color for you.
green is mine.
🙂
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booksColoring Books for Adults (and kids too)
Splendid Cities Just Add Color: Geometric Patterns
Just Add Color: Botanicals
Fantastic Cities
these are pure relaxation.
and my kids love to work on them all through church and while waiting at restaurants.
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J.R. Watkins Grapefruit Sugar & Shea Body Scrub
this is my favorite way to smell great and have soft skin.
🙂
you can get it at the grocery store or big box store.
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SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
i get asked every week what kind of sewing machine i would recommend.
i always say this one.
we have them at the Craft House and everyone loves them.
they are sturdy… quiet… easy to use.
and totally affordable.
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Fiskars 24×36 Inch Eco Cutting Mat
and these next few items are my favorite tools i use when i sew.
i use this big cutting mat to cut my fabric.
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1787-Photo-102and i always cut using my
Acrylic Grid Ruler with the Ruler Grip Double Suction Cup attached
to keep my fingers safe and make a clean straight cut.


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and i use this OLFA 45mm Deluxe Handle Rotary Cutter for all my cutting.

🙂

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and last but not least…. BOOKS!
in no particular order and all different release dates, these are all just darn good books!

books1
Love Does …….. Everyday Grace ……… For the Love
books2
A Million Miles in a Thousand Years …….. Crazy Love …….. Cold Tangerines
books3
Wild in the Hollow ………. You’re Made for a God-Sized Dream ………… Bread & Winebooks4

Called for Life ………. A Million Little Ways ………… Kisses from Katie

books5 Tattoos on the Heart …….  Bittersweet ……… Jesus Freak

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add a comment

Lori - I think this is a great gift guide! Love it!

Susan in KS - What a great list. I needed the help. Thank you!

Michelle from Australia - I think you have exceptionally good taste in movies. As I’ve seen all but 3 on your list! And thanks for adding yet more items to my ‘Pick Up When In The USA in 2016’ list! Thankfully Kansas will be my last stop before heading back to Australia so whatever I pick up in Kansas only has 2 flights to come home with me 🙂 Happy Christmas Meg!

Kori - Great list, but this made me laugh out for real:
“it’s still the bible but without all the thys and thous and begats.” 😀

nic - this list makes it clear to me that we have the same (fabulous) taste in all the things. especially movies. except i have to know where you stand on nacho libre: yay or nay?

Carol S. - Bravo, well done. Just ordered coloring book botanicals and prisms soft core pencils and Amazon gift card for niece…boom…done! Thanks Meg. You’re anniversary was dreamy btw.

Kit - Awesome list, Meg! But I MUST know what you love about the lighted mirror…I am afraid of those! I don’t want to see all my scary blemishes and wrinkles and weird hairs! Because what can I really do about that (except the hairs)!? I thought ignorance was bliss…

Crystal - How about kids… Especially tweenage girls?

Amy - Thank you! Love this list! And I agree with SoCalLynn…would love your ideas for the guys!

Kelly - This is the GREATEST list, ever. I put the essential oil diffuser in my Amazon shopping bag 🙂 Merry Christmas to me. I would add SOAP AND GLORY bath gel…THE BEST EVER. (on Amazon or Ulta carries it) I love the Clean on Me scent. So good!!!!!!!!!! I’d also add the book The Nightengale. Best book I read of 2015 (and I read a ton)

eva - I love this gift list for ordinary people!! I’m going out to find the suction cup thing right now.

But…’Bridesmaids’ and ‘the Message’?? together on one gift list?? just sayin’

April R - merry Christmas Ms. Meg
thanks for the inspiration today and all year long

SoCalLynn - There are some really lovely things on your list, but what I really need is some help with gift ideas for men!!! Do you have any suggestions?

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wrapping up december

December 30, 2014 Filed in christmas,family fun

well we are at the end of the year already?
it feels super weird to me.
and like everyone else… this past week of celebrating has been a blur.
but for the most part it’s been the good kind of blur.
we decorated gingerbread houses.
i cheated a little and bought them pre-built from the bakery at target.
but what matters is we did it.
and even BEFORE christmas this year?!

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the most fun addition this year was the Air Head Extremes rainbow stripe candy!

and the Alpha Bits cereal was a good idea but it turns out there are hardly any N’s or S’s which is annoying.

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they have so many jokes and voices and stories together that make each other laugh constantly.
and they were cracking each other up this day.
(of course they fight too but it’s so much more fun to capture them laughing)
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we had several family christmases… and i took a few pictures at my parents because my dad got me a wide angle lens!
it’s so fun to play around with!
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my mom made a big dinner for us all!
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cousins in their new socks!

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and then my kiddos in new jammies on christmas morning.
sleepy faces ready for breakfast and gifts.

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we pulled off surprising talby with this piano!!
craig and the boys went and loaded it up… hid it behind a bunch of other things in the garage till christmas eve.
then pushed inside after talby went to bed.
i did no work other than find it… i am so grateful for strong men.
i googled around and found out it’s over 100 years old!
it sounds great to us and talby remembers so much from her lessons in the past – i was shocked!

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craig found a ping pong table to go over the pool table.  🙂
and now there is a ping pong championship on the line!

every family does christmas in their own way… your gifts, traditions or ideas may be different from ours and that is O K!
we do one gift of something they want (like a kindle or new phone or speakers or a piano)
and then “stockings”
and somewhere along the way… the actual stockings became gift bags.

lauren
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annie
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scott
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talby
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sean
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and i got some beautiful gifts too from lots of lovely people in my life.
🙂
i felt quite spoiled.
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this year my kids hit a new phase in their sibling life.
they EACH picked meaningful things for each other.
ALL of them.
i was so proud to watch them open gifts from each other… and see their faces when the brother or sister liked it.
that’s the good stuff.

and you guys!!!
my mailbox has been BURSTING with christmas cards from YOU!
i read every one of them and announced the state (or country) when we opened them.
annie was my helper.
it was really sweet and i appreciate all of them.
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reading all your notes made me remember why i love blogging.
and refreshed to keep going.
t h a n k   y o u.

add a comment

Rachel - I have the Nikon version of that lens and love it. It is making shooting our renovation so much easier! Glad you are having so much fun with it.

Juli - Meg, where did you find the afghan laying across your chair/couch? The colors are fabulous. Please don’t tell me it is vintage. The vintage ones I find are never that pretty! Thank you!

Kristine - I sent a card but no note! Yikes. I’m qtsmom on Instagram! It was the rejoice card with two teenage boys- The Clines!
Duh! I was just so giddy about sending a card to my fave blogger!
On another note, the look on your face looking at Annie and Olaf…so hilarious!
Thanks for sharing your family Christmas traditions!
Happy New Year!

Tabitha - Fantastic gifts! Can you tell me where you got Talby’s “Love” shirt? It’s awesome!

jennibell - You are such a FUN mom — yea! You truly inspire me to be “better” (more available, more fun) and your blog helps with the ideas because they just don’t come to me easily/naturally.
Happy 2015 Meg!

Andrea @ This Pug Life - Fly Away Home was one of my favorite movies – brings back memories!

Kelsey - Another request for the horse (unicorn?) hat source! I love it and Googled to no avail last night.

Amy - It looks like a great Christmas! Gingerbread houses are such a fun tradition. 🙂 Blessings to you and your sweet family in the New Year!

Library Momma - Meg! Lovely ideas. When did you start doing gifts this way? This is very enticing to me as we are trying to teach our young children life is family, experiences, traditions, not “stuff.” Santa is till alive and well in our house so this is slightly a delicate balance.

Amber - It looks like you had a lovely Christmas! I’m curious how you handle gifts between siblings. I’m preggo with my fourth and I’m just not sure how to handle it. My kids are too young to have the kind of money to purchase gifts on their own. It’s a struggle I have right now to keep a handle on how much we spend and yet teach them to enjoy giving as much (or more) than getting. I. Not really sure they can make each other something yet either. Or maybe a scribbled picture is enough? I’d love your two cents. Happy New Year!

Janine - Gorgeous piano. PLEASE do not paint it! I know you love painting everything but give restoring the wood a try. A simple first step is to clean it with Murphy’s oil soap and then make your own mixture of equal parts lemon juice and olive oil and polish it up. You will be amazed at how gorgeous the wood looks after that. And if it still looks worn out after that, then resort to paint *shudder*!!

Katherine - I, too, want to know where to find a hat like Annie’s!

Gevay - Happy New Year!

Dawn - Funny how stocking gifts can get away from you. Stocking shopping is the most fun. It looks like you had a Merry Christmas. Happy New Year!

Meredith - Hi Meg! Happy New Year’s Eve! Could you please tell me where you found Talby’s ‘be awesome today’ sign? Thanks!

Lori - I’m happy you got so many cards and had a wonderful Christmas! Happy New Year to you!

Amy - It looks like your family knows you well! Where did you find Annie’s horse hat? My daughter bought her own horse this year and would flip for that hat!

Tiffany - Loving the Ping Pong Tabletop, such a good idea for indoor fun that helps you get off your bum.

mary - bravo on how you do your presents!
i think that is how it should be done, my mom tried that way
years ago and some very spoiled siblings had an all out fit
and yes after they were in their 20’s.
happy new year to you and your whole family meg!

jamie - LOVE THIS! i need to add so many things to my amazon wish list! and can we talk about the {annie} soundtrack? i love it!

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