whatever

Blog

Category Archives: friends

God is good.

December 17, 2012

the shootings in Newtown were devastating.
it's horrible.
it's heartbreaking.
it is evil.

Psalms 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Lord continue to be with all the families affected by this tragedy.

—————————————————————————————————————————-

my friend pam is getting better and her girls are getting better too.
their health is improving.

i am praising God for that this week!
i have absolutely LOVED the amazingness of the internet and cell phones this week.
she and i can "talk" fairly easily ACROSS THE WORLD!
getting an email from Pam is cause for stopping what i am doing and reading it.
i love to hear from her.

————————————————————————————————————————————-

this is my "GET IN THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT" week.
i am determined to get it.
i will bake. i will pray. i will sing. i will craft. i will shop. i will wrap. i will plan. i will BE MERRY.

there will be kids craft posts all week long!

i have five days to finish.
oy.

how are you doing on your christmas attitude?
are you having a hard time like me remembering that christmas is about jesus, not schedulues, gifts & decorating?

i am trying.

————————————————————————————————————————————

thankful for so many little details in my life this weekend….candle light dinner with the kids…creativity…healthy legs to run…those faces…kids who eat peanut butter like crazy…sleeping in LATE…cuddling with waffle…basketball games…silly moments like shoulder rides and running barefoot in the parking lot.

————————————————————————————————————————————-

who says she can't be a lefty after all.
she drew the whole picture with a pencil first and then colored it all in…with her left hand!!

————————————————————————————————————————————-

talby and i put together some Blessing Bags yesterday.
she said "this is so nice to do for people! this makes me feel good."
exactly.
she was reading my mind.
i look forward to her being able to pass them out.
we are keeping them in our car so we can be sure to have them when we need them.

read about how to make your own blessing bags HERE.

————————————————————————————————————————————-

this morning….

super foggy…..ran with friends in 24 degrees….breakfast – i love those! ….annie bought an AG with her own money and it arrived today. she is going to be SO excited after school!!

———————————————————————————————————————————-

I am joining The Adventure Project again this holiday to help in Haiti, Africa and India….

Go over to The Adventure Project to see HOW you can can be a part of this amazing tribe!!

show hide 20 comments

add a comment

Melissa - Lisa: I just checked..she’s still there. PUNKALOTTA. She also started blogging again a few weeks ago, pieceofcakeafterthoughts.blogspot.com.
I keep sending well wishes and prayers to Newtown.
Good luck Lisa.

Lisa - I can’t seem to locate Laura’s instagram page? It keep telling me it’s been deleted?

karen - that’s such a beautiful explanation Lorraine.

Melissa - I too live in Connecticut about 30 miles away, and a Mom of four young children, and the tragedy in Newtown is heart-wrenching. My first thoughts when to Laura as I follow her too on Instagram actually. It’s so difficult to look at the children’s pictures and to hear the details of thier little lives and what they loved and thier families. I think what happened has forever changed me, and my outlook on life. I wish beyond anything time could turn back. I pray and hope that there is a god, and that these little children are with him now. Look for Laura on Instagram (Punkalotta) – she is posting some pictures of memorials around the town.

cj - I love the blessing bag idea. I posted the picture of yours and an explanation on Facebook and my post has exploded with responses. Last week it was very cold out and I saw a man at an intersection with a cardboard sign, homeless with a family. I only had a few dollars but would have given him all I had, but I was one lane over and the light turned green. If I had had a blessing bag with me I would have had the time to toss it to him, with a silent prayer that it would help meet some needs. I would rather do a blessing bag than try to buy little gifts for friends…..thanks.

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - He is good all the time! Pure sunshine over here. Love that. Need that! Been praying for Pam and her girl. So glad to hear they are better. Yay!

Lorraine R. - I totally understand the confusion to Meg’s words….the thing is though, that God does not control people. He gave us free will to make our decisions, sadly people continue to choose their own ways instead of His. God was there with those children during the tragedy and His is with their families even now……His word says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” It’s up to us to acknowledge His presence….trust me, He is here <3

Jennifer - I don’t know Laura at all, other than from her blog (which I greatly miss). When I heard of the tradegy, I couldn’t help but cry. I used to be a teacher and just can’t imagine what the staff and children went through. Later, when I heard this had happened in Newtown, I cried for Laura’s family. They have been in my thoughts and prayers ever since. If there is anything that I can do from here in Kansas, please let me know.

Jody - Lisa
I cannot stop thinking of Laura & her family as well. Please let me know of anything she needs or that we can do for her community. Let her know that her family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Thank you.
Jody

sam - I love your posts meg, but really,
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble”
Where was he when those poor little children needed him? How was he helping?
It is totally contradictory to say “Lord continue to be with all the families affected by this tragedy.”
Where was he when it needed to be prevented? If he is able to be “with” them in the aftermath, why isn’t he able to be with the gunman and make him stop?
“God is good”. How? Its convenient to say he is good when something great happens, but when something horrific happens, well if he has so much power, why does he let bad things happen? The whole theory that god even exists is full of giant holes.
With all due respect to you.

Betsy - Lisa, Please let me know if you do something for Laura and her family; I would be happy to contribute. I live about 50 miles away (in Simsbury), but I absolutely loved and miss Laura’s blog. She was the first person I thought of on Friday, and can’t imagine the heartache they are experiencing.

alicia @ la famille - i just really like you. i like the way you look at life. i like that you run and make breakfast. you’re a cool girl.
and yes, i agree…God IS good. even when things are bad…He’s still good.
that is all 🙂

Lisa M. - I love this. You are so right. Merry Christmas!

Lisa M. - You see, I wasn’t going to go for my run today because I have SO much to do. But then I saw your running shoes and then your picture with your running friends. You ran in 24 degree weather…if I go right now I can go in 51 degree weather 🙂 (most unusual temps for December around here in Western PA…where is the snow?!?!) Now, I have to go. Thank you, truly!
I have a seven year old, 1st grader. My heart has been hurting since I heard of the news that happened Friday. It is indescribable and I have been praying constantly for those parents. I have to literally force myself to think of something else because I am making myself sick. I know God is in control and I know He has a plan. And I KNOW He will make good out of this horrific bad. He goes before us, He knows all. His ways are not our ways and we are not supposed to understand why He allows certain things to happen. We (society) have allowed Him to be taken out of our schools and now everyone is asking, “Where is God?”. He was right there and now those lovely children are in arms, safe and happy. Easy for me to say, I know, but I also know God is in control and I pray that at some point those families experience a peace that “passes all understanding”.

Heather Simnitt - You asked:
“how are you doing on your christmas attitude?
are you having a hard time like me remembering that christmas is about jesus, not schedulues, gifts & decorating?”
Not this year, but here is why. I have learned that I can’t just *add* Jesus to the holiday that is really all His anyway. I had to get rid of some of the things that were cluttering the holiday and not letting Jesus in. We cut back the schedule. I got presents *early* (done and wrapped by 12/8), and we are making a concerted effort to give more and spend less. It helps a lot.

shar y - this was a great post, thanks. I would love to see a post sometime about how you choose your charity to help. There are so many and it is so daunting to decide. And, then, I think should I do a little here, or a little there? Or pick one and do it all for them? I love that you are involved with this. Especially now, today. Blessings to you and all of your family.

Jessica - I live about 15 miles away from Newtown. I have been thinking about Laura from Piece of Cake since I heard the news Friday morning. I started following her blog after it was linked to yours, and it quickly became a favorite. My heart is broken for Newtown. Such a senseless tragedy… If you are in touch with Laura, please tell her that I have been thinking of her and praying for her family.

hannah - saw this and thought of the sweet babies you’ve posted about…
check out sevenly’s focus this week!
https://www.sevenly.org/

Lindsey - I love the blessing bag idea! So sweet that your daughter loved the concept! Last night I declared this week to be my “Get in the spirit” week also. It is happening. The worship, the food, the gifts, the “living in the moment.”

Lisa - Meg, I’m not sure if you talk to Laura (from piece of cake) on a regular basis but two of her children attended that school. Thank God they are okay but there is still much healing that needs to be done in them and in their community. I’ve already emailed her about her immediate needs and haven’t heard back yet, but I’d love it if we could all come together and do something great for them. I live only about ten minutes away from them so I could certainly drop things off if need be. Please let me know if you’d like to help or if you have any ideas. While we can’t bring back the victims, we can help the survivors.
lisajoseph79@gmail.com

Share on Facebook•Tweet this Post•Pin Images to Pinterest•Back to Top

hello…i am still here.

December 2, 2012

well i kind of just disappeared.

my week just sucked the life out of me.
annie was sick & throwing up with the flu…with her broken arm….so sad to watch.

then she went in for her real cast after she had been so sick.
she was still weak and queasy.
it was a craaaazy appointment.
long story short…. she passed out for a moment….and there was a lot of screaming.
talk about stress!!!
that 30 minute appointment took me days to recover from.

she chose KU colors for her cast and it looks so fun.
but honestly she is SICK of the cast already and i am for her.
it is so exhausting doing anything because she is right handed.
i just hurt for her not being able to be her spunky self.

but it will pass… it's temporary.

i focused on my husband for the evening and surprised him with pumpkin pie with homemade pie crust.
sometimes you just need to snuggle in with your man and eat something yummy like that to make the day feel okay.
am i right?

teenagers can be hard and emotional and confusing…but still wonderful.
jr highers can be too.
i just want to raise them with out them making any mistakes that they will regret forever.
i realize that is not possible.
everyone makes mistakes.
and sometimes they are big…. and sometimes they aren't and we have to deal with figuring out which is which.

and that is HARD to deal with day in and day out.
especially when there is puking and broken bones and LIFE going on at the same time.

all week what kept me going…kept me from crawling under my covers, drawing the blinds and crying was

"saturday is coming".

my girlfriends and i ran the Jingle Bell Run again this year.
we dressed up a little more than last year.
and it wasn't AS killer as last year (but it was still hard for me)
it's a four mile run.

and when we run a race we have a tradition of starbucks and massage afterward.
so we did.

oh mama.

going for massage is one of the best ways to spend some time.
ever.
it's just so good.

time away with friends is refreshing.
good to get a new perspective on things….getting to talk out loud with grown ups about anything… sharing dreams… encouraging others dreams… shop… laugh… eat…. it's all so good.

it makes weeks like this feel okay.
like i'm gonna be alright.

🙂

ok……

winner for the MPIX.com canvas:

Nanette said…

Right now it is a picture of my 3 boys on the 4th of July…from 2 years ago when my youngest still had rolls of baby fat under his navy blue shortalls…all waving flags, smiling and hugging. It has been front and center on my entry way table for the last few years and always makes me smile and remember how fast they grow!

Reply December 01, 2012 at 09:13 AM

and the TWO winners for the Lisa Leonard gift certificates:

Melissa Hermon said…

My mom's wedding ring. She passed away 11 yrs ago and it is such a great reminder of her.

Reply November 30, 2012 at 10:53 AM

AND

Naomi said…

My most meaningful piece of jewellery is a necklace my parents gave me, with my grandfather's nickname for me stamped on to it.

Reply November 29, 2012 at 12:11 PM

————————————————————————-

email me your info and i will hook you up with your prizes!!

show hide 26 comments

add a comment

Gina - Happy Monday…sending you sunshine!! Have a fun week!!!

Lori Austin - There is NOTHING like seeing your kids suffer. My kiddos have been
through so many tests, appointments, hospital stays and surgeries.
I am WAY over it. Sorry it was such a rough week. Praying the weeks
pass quickly for poor Annie. Hang in there Momma!

Gail - I missed running this year’s run, good times for a good cause. Did you have a burger? Sending prayers Annie’s way.

sara @ it's good to be queen - oh my lands. bless your heart. you’ve had a week. thanks for sharing…good to know i’m not alone. being a mom is way harder than i ever dreamt…so good and so hard. so glad you got your fun saturday. 🙂

Laura - we are all living such similar lives!!!!!
broken bones…
teenage parenting…
pumpkin pie 🙂
thankfully…God knows how much to give and when to give it…though I do question His judgement A LOT..in the end..it always makes sense. We always get by. And emerge ten times stronger.
And I should come over so we can drink margaritas.
I am going to pray for THAT.

Tiffany - So sorry for your tough days lately. You’re a great mom, wife, and friend! 🙂

Tracy Fisher - I hear you sister. Thanks for being real! I wish you a fabulous and easy week this week. Hugs! -tracy

Heaven B. - I’m right there with ya, Momma. My husband (my biggest child) had knee surgery last Wednesday, so he was home the rest of that week. Exhausting. I had to watch my wedding video once more to verify that I DID say “in sickness and in health”, because by Friday…I was at the end of my rope, let’s say.
How do you keep your sneakers so clean? My running shoes look like they’ve been dragged through the mud. Oh, wait…they have.

Kirsten J - Hey, I often feel like crawling under the covers and crying, without broken bones or flu in the house. And sometimes I do. Poor Annie….poor Mama. And I can walk an easy 6 miles on a good day but run 4 miles!?!? not happening. Good for you! Look forward to getting out of the cast -and hey! Christmas is just around he corner.

tiffini - bless your heart…us mommas.
we are so tough
you are tough
and your little annie…
you will be ok:) and thank you for being real
xotiff

Janelle - Oh it’s so good to hear you say that about teenagers and junior high kids. I’m telling you it is HARD. Makes me miss those babies!
So sorry about Annie…that doctor appt. would definitely take a week or so to recover from.

Amy@littleforalittlewhile - Oh Meg, so sorry to hear of your hard week. If I know one thing though, it’s that you are an AMAZING mom (and woman in general). When I was younger, I had to witness my older brother and sister both make some terrible life choices and costly mistakes, and we didn’t have parents that were involved or really step up to guide us. And you know what? It all worked out. They turned into AWESOME adults. So knowing the kind of mother you are, your kids are going to grow into amazing adults too. I just know it. How can they not? It’ll all come full circle and they’ll come around, eventually. Chin up, girlfriend. Hugs!

mary - i have been thinking of you …. and your family… and the struggles that we all face as mom, wife, friend, daughter, and sister…hoping that your routine returns and life settles down….prayers and good thoughts your way…xo

Valerie @ Chateau a la mode - Oh Meg so sorry for the crazies of this last week. I totally get it. One thing I have learned as a mom of a few more years under my belt 😉 than you is that there’s one word that helps me. It’s Surrender, which means God has my children in His perfect place and His perfect timing. It’s really not up to me to make their life happen. I can’t follow them everywhere all the time (which I know is the way we want so badly to be) or help them always make decisions, especially those really hard ones like who their friends are, where they will go to school, what stupid things they will do and all I have to remember is pray, pray, pray for them. Don’t ever forget there’s real power in your prayers and after the praying, it’s surrending to our Almighty God. Not easy to do, but it’s what we are supposed to do. Hope this helps a little bit. xoxo

Heidi Jo the Artist - So sorry you had a rough week. Nice that you were able to have an enjoyable times with your friends. 🙂 Hope you have a better week this week!

Angie - The Jingle Bell Run looks awesome. Your outfits were too cute. Glad your weekend was a good one. Sounds like you had a tough week before.

Brenda - Poor Annie, I broke my left arm twice (once roller skating, once ice skating)when I was little. When I was taken into surgery to have my arm pinned they realized that both bones had broken through the skin, so they could not pin it. I also passed out when they took the cast off, which totally freaked out my poor mom as well! Hang in there it will get better and will be off before you know it!

April R - fitting that tonight’s advent is “hope” and we know who are hope is in 🙂
prayers that His peace, joy, wisdom, love, and more will continue to be yours

Judy@Considering the Options - teenagers can be hard and emotional and confusing…but still wonderful.
So very true!! I thought I had things figured out after my first -you took his senior pics two summers ago:). But each one is so different. It’s like we have to be a different parent to each kid. They all need something unique from us. It’s hard. And then there are those moments when your heart is so full from them. It’s probably much like they think of parents – hard, emotional and confusing:)! Prayers for you – Hang in there!

Sarah Wolfe - I’m so sorry about Annie. Medical stuff is so stressful, especially with our babies.

mum of all trades - Poor Annie, that is just not fair. My son broke his last Summer and missed out on so many fun things, my heart just broke for him. I hope she can keep her spirits up until the cast come off. In awe of the race by the way, any sort of running in general would make me keel over!

alicia @ la famille - yucky week 🙁 but what FUN race pics!! i had a goal to train for a 1/2 marathon after each of my kids…that’s my motivation to lose the weight. your pics make me excited to race again after i have this baby in april. so much to race with friends!! hope this week is waaaay better 🙂

Weza - Megan, my 20 month old broke his leg this year and was in a full leg cast for 6 weeks, then he got a vomiting and diarrhoea bug. Talk about HARD! So I know exactly what your week has been like. No wonder you made Pumpkin pie… I love the idea of a Christmas fun run, if only I could get motivated to run. We are currently in a heat wave here in Aussie so I think ill be sticking inside under the air conditioner. Take care. xxx

Kristin S - Snuggling with honey and loving on your kids. Far more important time than blog time.
Heck, yeah, we miss you, but you know what’s best.
Yep.

Lori H - Meg, I wish I had all the answers so I could share with you (and write and book and make a fortune!). haha With the faith in God that you share here, I know you are doing the very best you can for your kids, and they will come out just fine. At least, that is what I count on with my kids 🙂

jerusalem - Oh I feel you. I have a broken right foot (which means no driving) and my Sweet Man had the flu and now both my boys do too. And I had a craft fair in the middle. What a week. Praying Annie feels better soon and that you get some peace and rest. You are not going to screw up your kiddos. Just keep on keepin on 🙂 I work in a Middle School so I feel your pain a little.

Share on Facebook•Tweet this Post•Pin Images to Pinterest•Back to Top

NYC….last one

July 25, 2012

people have asked me about the apartment we rented.
craft weekend alum Karen lives IN new york city and gave us SO MUCH help with ideas of where to stay and what to do and where to eat!
she rocked.
she shared this blog post with me and that is how we ended up with vrbo.com.
we stayed on stanton st.
it was nice enough and safe enough.
it wasn't fancy.
but it worked great for us to have some space and room to sit around and talk.
i am a bit of a hotel snob and missed my bed being made for me.
but other than that it was perfect.
memories were made with our friends….lots of nervous laughter when we arrived.
using vrbo you are never 100% sure of what you are going to get.
but it's always worked out great for us.

we rode all over new york on those double decker tourist buses.
it was cheaper than cabs and we learned as we rode.
one tour guide had the best thick new york accent that it felt like he was faking it….but it was REAL.
also i got MUCH less motion sick on the top of the bus too.
bonus.
the first day was so hot i thought i might die…but after that day it was fine.
🙂
and i am still alive.

that is cool and artsy….but also….very weird.
she looks like the costume lady on the incredibles…. (oh you've gotten fat!)

dave convinced me it would be cool to rent bikes and ride through central park.
once we got out of traffic it was fun.
i always visualize bad headlines like "mother of 5 killed by a tour bus while riding a rented bicycle in NYC"
i was very worried at first…but it turned out to be great!
thankful it was only two hours though because i had a very tiny bike seat for my not very tiny real seat.

on instagram i said "name every movie with this fountain"
there were a lot of comments.
this is one very famous fountain.

the dude in the spandex was doing yoga…alone in central park.
i can promise you that is something you will NEVER see me doing.
yoga alone in a public park in spandex.
nope.

we headed over to 30 Rock because Dave had scored tickets to Jimmy Fallon!!
jimmy fallon and letterman tickets are through an email process that happens months before the show.
dave worked hard for this trip.

it was AWESOME.
we are BIG jimmy fallon fans.
his guests were matt lauer and mike tyson!!
i thought this hour was the best part of our trip.
and… jimmy touched my hand.
i haven't showered since.
ha.
it was SO MUCH FUN!

practically twins.
but mine is way cuter.
when i cut craig's hair he always says "just give me the matt lauer"

jenny dressed to match our NBC studio day!

i kept my eyes open for liz lemon all day long… i saw nothing.
blerg!

we went to the top of the Rock.
amazing isn't it?
all week i felt like i was walking around in a movie set.

our last day was filled with more rain….bleck.
but we were troopers.
girls shoes just aren't good for rain.
especially if you are trying to look cute.

we hugged goodbye at Penn Station and went to different airports home to our kids.

i spotted corbin bersen across from me at the airport and texted jenny every thing he was doing.
he's eating soup.
he put on glasses.
he is on his laptop.
now he is having a lollipop.

poor corbs.

at least i didn't go bug him to his face right?

but now that i see this….i really wish i had gone over and said "hey man…we were LITERALLY just talking about you over breakfast this morning!"

because we were!!

how bizarre and random is that?
we talked about all the shows we watched growing up…starting with brady bunch all the way out to dallas, falcon crest and then later in life… LA LAW.
and there he is!
crazy.

but…i stalked him instead.
what a dweeb i am.

new york was good.
it was overwhelming.
it is a busy, loud, full, crowded place but it's also a LOT of fun.
i never get enough time with jenny now matter if it's a week or a weekend.
i love spending time with them no matter where we are.

but i loved getting back to my kids too.
i really did miss them.
and my VERY quiet little farm.

so… have you been to NYC?
do you want to go?
where are you headed next… where is your next trip?

show hide 54 comments

add a comment

Penny Smith - You. Went. To. Jimmy. Fallon?!?!?! I use to LIKE you! Hee!! It’s on my bucket list! 🙂

Shana - If you hadn’t told me you were going to blog about that car I never would have known you went to NYC!
Seriously. We have got to catch up!

April R - Thank you for sharing these! I probably won’t get to NY but that was a neat ‘taste’ of it. You guys sure rocked it 🙂
And the photos from the top – the evening city shots – I caught my breath…wow Meg! Those were super!

Andrea - So funny–I give my husband the “Matt Lauer” too! Love the New York pictures…it makes me want to go!

Lacey - We always have to jump into the drugstore and buy a poncho when the rain his us on our NYC trips. Next time I’m hitting a shoe shop for rain boots and a cute umbrella to match! Looks like such a great trip.

Molly - My best friend from high school lives in NYC and reads your blog… because I told her about it! I live in Kansas. 🙂 I’ve been to NYC lots of times and would happily go back. Especially to see my friend!

Julie Kittredge - Oh NYC. I love it! I was there visiting a friend exactly a year ago. She lives in Brooklyn – it was just a weekend trip for me but it was magical and exhilarating and adventurous. I wouldn’t want to live there but it’s an amazing city to visit!! Way busier than Chicago and way different. I expected it to be more similar than it was. Glad you had fun!

crystal - I like your lipstick in the first pic! What brand & color is it?

karen - awesome trip. i loved all your pics. makes me want to go!!

Beth - I got butterflies in my stomach when I saw your picture of the fountain. My husband proposed to me on the steps leading down to it almost exactly 6 years ago! We are planning to go back to NYC this October to celebrate our 5th anniversary. I’m hoping to set up a little photo shoot on those steps. (Want to come back to be our photographer?) 🙂 We love, love, love New York – can’t wait to go back!

Routhie - NYC just isn’t our cup of tea. I like big cities, but it’s a bit too much. Our next trip will be back to Spain to visit my brother-in-laws in Zaragoza. We’re flying into Madrid this time–can’t wait for all the good food, coffee, and [of course] family! My favorite treat was one afternoon, before siesta, we had chocolate and churros for lunch. I needed a couple glasses of wine and cheese afterwards.

aimee - these are wonderful! you did it all!

Alicia @ La Famille - what a trip! i love seeing new and weird things…so fun!

Carolyne - Meg I have loved your take on NYC and will have to nick pick your brain as we are heading there next April (coming from Australia). Have been twice before but with kids which is a whole different trip altogether and it was HOT!!!! Can’t wait until we go because I love that city so much. Thank you for helping me get excited and LOVED your posts.

amy - Our next trips are Italy, Paris and London — all within a month’s time! Wish I had a quiet little farmhouse to come home to! 🙂

Mindy Harris - thank you for the laugh tonite, miss megan. you are a hoot and a half!

Kelly - I like to ride those busses too and look at sweet Craig carrying your stuff in his bike basket. Great husband!
On my third trip to NYC with two girl friends I made (I do like to plan) a “choose our own adventure book” for us for NYC. It was a lot of fun to make and then use there. Kelly

amy jupin - i can almost hear your voice as i read this!
so happy you and jenny got to hang out in nyc together.
yay for bffs and trips with hot hubbies!

Hilary - OMG! I never see anyone famous at the airport or when I go to the city (chicago)…maybe I’m looking too hard! I totally would have gone up to Corbin Bernsen, he’s on my very favorite tv show, Psych!!
What a fun trip, looks like you had a great time!

Julie - I love NYC! And Jimmy Fallon is my absolute favorite! I’ve seen him perform four times, but always in Indiana. I’d love to go to a taping at 6B!
No traveling plans right now, but your posts make me want to go back to New York – like, tomorrow! Thanks for sharing!

Christi - I left a comment on your last NYC post… we just went in December with all the kids. I would love to do another trip sans kiddos. We were going to do the VRBO thing, but I chickened out. Love your photos from the Rock!

Valerie @ Chateau A La Mode - Just because it’s random, just wanted to share that I have seen Corbin Bersen lots at the Pasadena Flea Market. He must go every month. My sister and I stalk him too 😉 sometimes we separate and one of us will text each other if we see him. He looks around at very random, funky stuff. He usually has on sweats and crocs which we think is funny, and he is with his wife too. I think she’s a decorater, hee hee, just thought I’d share. Glad you had so much fun with your friends, it’s what life is all about!

Janine - Thank you for showing me NYC through tourist lenses! I live just outside of the city and don’t go nearly often enough. And I don’t ever really see the sights. You’ve given me ideas to plan a weekend in NYC. Thanks!

Kim - Love NYC! We’ve been several times and are in fact going back this week. It will be the first time we are taking the kids. Can’t wait!

Jill - Loved reading about your trip to NYC. I went last summer for the first time. I was only there a couple of days so naturally I didn’t get to see everything. I definitely plan to go back and spend more time seeing ALL the sights! Such a change from Omaha!!! Glad you had fun!
xo Jill

Jayne Barbour - Had to share my full circle moment:) My husband looks a smidge like Corbin Bernsen (or maybe George Strait?)
see here: http://jayniac.blogspot.com/2012/07/whatta-guy.html
AND he always gets the Matt Lauer cut too!
Love seeing these pics. What a special-and fun!-trip with your fella and friends!

Anita - Hi Meg, loving the photos of your NY trip! That is our next holiday in 5 weeks time…but for 14 whole days without our 3 kids (5,3 1/2 & 22 months)… I thought I would be ready to leave them all for the trip but as its getting closer I am getting more nervous about the little one as he is mummy’s boy. But coming all the way from Brisbane, Australia it’s takes over 20 hours and we just wanted to make it a once in a lifetime trip! Have tennis tickets & Yankees tickets booked already and have a list a mile long of things to do/see. It’s been wonderful getting a tast of it thru your Intsgram pics and now your blog. Thanks so much for sharing…. Even tho all those busy street pics gave me anxiety!! Am I really ready for NY?!

Catriona - I have never been to New York, never even been to the US! I have a fantasy trip to NYC planned in my head, though. By the time I get there I will probably need about a fortnight to get through my ridiculous itinerary!
Still, for now I am really looking forward to a trip to my parents in my home town of Edinburgh, Scotland – such a great place.

Miranda - YES Been to NYC and I LOVED every minute!!!!!!! Did quite the same things you did and I cant wait to go back. Amazinggggg city.

Sheridan - As I mentioned on instagram… I head there in two weeks… So super excited. My brother lives two blocks from central park. So cool that you have been just before me. Have loved seeing your pics. I am leaving hubbie and our four kids at home. Praying that I don’t miss them too much. A much needed break for this at home mumma. So love reading your blog and hope one day to make it to craft weekend… Would surely be the guest who would travel the furtherest… From New Zealand………… 😉 One day…..

Sandy - I’ve been…a couple years before 9/11. Want to go back with my man, my daughter and her boyfriend. I think that would be a great trip! Next on the list though is Grand Cayman in January!! Can’t wait.

Debbie Hargadon - I have loved these posts and the instagram – but wanted to put out my vote for VRBO.com Such a great site to use when you have multi fmailies going to the same place. We have always had outstanding experiences in really great properties. Don’t be afraid!
NYC so fun to visit – you did a few things I have not done in the past but would do on my next trip. I want to travel with DAVE!!! Score for the tickets and the planning! 😉 And yes. . . ahhhh Kansas. . . if only it were NORMAL weather and not 100 every day!
From 65 degree San Jose, CA. . .

Jessica Johnson - Love the NYC. My mom’s family is from Long Island so we’ve been back to visit quite a few times. My parents are there right now actually! Also, I love Jenny’s shirt. And VRBO. We use it ALL the time.

amanda - My husband says the same thing to me when I cut his hair! Ha!
Being from a tiny town in New Mexico and now raising my kids in a small West Texas town – I’ve always dreamed of going to NYC and experiencing really city life. Someday…someday!

happygirl - Your trip looks GREAT. I’m going to get on the ‘net right now and try to score tickets to Fallon for when I go to NYC in Feb. FUN!!

Laine - So fun! I went to NYC on a missions trip back in 2001. We stayed where Brooklyn meets the Bronx. It was an interesting place! But I loved it too. I grew up right outside of D.C. so the craziness was nothing new. Central Park is cool, and that’ awesome that you got to bike through it. I would love to go back to NYC!
My hubby and I have a picture together on the top of the twin towers with the sunset behind us. Less than two months later were the 9/11 attacks. Crazy.

roganne - It looks like you guys had so much fun! I’ve been to NYC once in my life and I want to go back! I feel like the first time you go your neck just keeps craning around and around taking in all of the stimulus overload. But now as an adult I think I would do much better 🙂

Lori H - My one trip to NYC was at Christmas time (not ON Christmas). You should really see it looking so festive. And see the Rockettes Christmas show. Very cool! Love the story of your trip…

jen - love this! i have been to new york city for one day when i was 17 as we passed through driving home to vancouver from our week in myrtle beach, sc. 6 girls in a van, 3 1.2 weeks, down the westcoast, across the south, up the east coast, across the north. epic. but your looked like more fun!! we are headed to ny in two weeks…the adirondacks, cottage country…for my mom’s 60th. a small hop from montreal. big week. big party. i am counting the days.
happy summer to you! xo

chrissi - Thanks for sharing NY. My favorite city!!! Love, love, love it. In my other life I went there a few times a year and it is always a bit different and always a great adventure. New life now and my husband hates it. Your photos made my day.

Patti - I am a born and raised Brooklyn, NYC girl now living down on the farm in southern Michigan…my husband is a native Michigander and i’ve been trying to get him to move to NYC (my mom, sister and most of my family are still in NYC…Brooklyn and Staten Island, Long Island etc)..i’m just not cut out to be a farm girl…I miss my crowds, noise, traffic! lol Looks like you had fun!!

Mollie @ Sprinkles of Life - I LOVE New York! LOVE LOVE LOVE it! My boyfriend and I went there for New Year’s Eve. So. cool! I can’t wait to do it again with him years down that road! Until we go back over NYE though, I need a couple trips just to explore and see more.

seriously sassy mama - I would love to go to NYC. I have never been. I love all your pictures of the city.

Curious Details - Crazy coincidence~a few years back we went to NYC for my 40th birthday (we live in Houston) We love Letterman and I scored tickets to his show AND got to try out for Stump The Band! What in interesting process that was. Made it all the way through to the final round which happened before taping in the Green Room with Paul Schaffer, but didn’t make the final cut. We did, however, get to sit really really close to the front and Dave came and stood “right there” next to us. Really fun!
Your trip looked very familiar. We live in a big city, but New York just overwhelms me. Too much of too much. But, like Vegas..ya gotta see it at least once in your life!

Rachel - I actually lived there for a little while! One night some girls I went to college with were like “Hey, let’s move to NYC.” And I was IN! I had ALWAYS wanted to live there. We were young and single and READY to mingle! Ha! So we packed up a UHAUL, drove from Chicago suburbs to NYC. It was a blast, and I’m really glad for the experience, but so glad to be living in my little rural Arkansas town, population 1500. I would rather have cows and chickens for neighbors and not all the LOUD stuff of NYC. But it is FUN. Lots of good experiences! And only one drive by shooting….for real :/ ( We didn’t tell our parents because we were afraid they would come and take us home!)

Betsy - So we went to NYC for the day and you were there at the same time!!!!!?!! I was looking for famous people all day– didn’t know that the famous Meg was there! (We were there on the rainy day- ick. Went to Rockefeller Center, and since our kids were with us, had to hit the Lego store.) I kept whacking umbrellas with other people by mistake as we walked the crowded streets. Love NYC- but that many people? Take me home, country roads, to the place where I belong… Connecticut! 🙂

Sarah{Handbags*N*Pigtails} - Since we live only about 4-5 hours away Ive been there numerous times. I LOVE it but I will not take my kids until theyre much older. Ive been there at different times of the year too and there are just too many people. Id be a nervous wreck that Id lose one of them.:)
I spent two consecutive birthdays in New York trying to get to the Rachel Ray show. The 2nd time we went totally made up for the first time they cut us off AT THE DOOR (even though we had tickets)saying “We’re sorry…the studio is full. We’ll give you VIP tickets for next season to make up for this.” The 2nd time we got to see Bob Barker and some dude from DWTS and everyone in the audience won $1500 in stuff! My mother in law and sister in law had taken me so they won it all too. Awesome, memorable trip!
We just got home from a family trip down through Virginia…the beach, wild horse islands, historical sites,etc… and in a few weeks hubby and I leave(alone) for El Salvador and Honduras for a teaching/missions trip.

Kim - MEG. This post makes me want to go to NYC right now. I have been twice, and I feel like I saw so much, but now I just want to see it all again, and MORE.
I LOVE NYC. Seriously. I wish I was 20 again, and packed up and moved out there.
I ALWAYS think in headlines too. Family vacations and youth group trips back in the day. FREAKY.

Christine - I want to comment on the whole trip, but I have no time. Let me just say I love your blog. Its awesome.

Michelle - What a great trip Meg! I was totally instagram stalking you while you were there. It looks like a blast!

brandi - i am going to NYC in 64 days (but who’s counting) with four of my best girlfriends. It will be my 3rd trip to NYC. I love it there. Maybe not the smells and herds of people, but I do love the diversity of New York. There’s just so much to do and so much culture. I can’t believe how lucky i am to go with just the girls (while the hubby stays home with the kids). I am glad you enjoyed it. It’s really hard for us Kansas girls to feel at home in the hustle and bustle of the city – but lets be honest, with all the kiddos, it’s still hustle and bustle, just a different kind. 😉

Tiffany - Oh how cool is the blurry photo of you with the umbrella, that looks movie set *ish. I live very close to NYC, prolly a little over an hour and we hardly visit, now I feel like a dweeb. Can’t believe you didn’t say hello to Corbin Bersen, let me find out you’re actually kinda shy, that would be a shocker.

Kristin S - No, don’t stop posting. I’m living vicariously through you on this trip…
I used to go with my dad every other year. Then I grew up. Stink. Haven’t been in over 20 years.

Jana Banana - Looks like a fab trip! Jealous of the Jimmy Fallon tickets, I’m a fan, too! (But then, who isn’t?) Well done on the bike ride through Central Park, that’s not something I would have thought about, but now, if ever we get to NYC, it’s on the list. 🙂

Share on Facebook•Tweet this Post•Pin Images to Pinterest•Back to Top

NYC…continued

July 24, 2012

i am not planner….i don't like to be the one who makes the schedules.
i don't like to be the one who decides what everyone will be doing.
on trips or in groups i tend to just go with the flow.
or at least i try.
so the only thing i think i said besides "i want starbucks" when deciding where to go
was "i would love to see Fishs Eddy in real life.

i got my wish.

i was in love at first sight.

major hot burning passionate love.

i loved EVERYTHING in here.

this picture is overexposed but those mugs look like notebook paper!!!
(if only they weren't 12 oz. mugs…i need a big mug)

for reals…vintage linens just like at the barn in kansas!
i prefer my barn prices to fishs eddy.
🙂

a million milk glass cake stands.

sour apple green hutch?
fabulous.

i loved every detail in this store.
every display piece.
every hand painted sign.
every dish and cup and tea towel.

i could have easily spent another hour here.
EASILY!
but of the four of us….i was the only one freaking out on the inside about how
completely amazing and REDONKULOUS this store was so i bought a t-shirt and we left.

i did not want to.

also i said "i'm going into anthro…" when i found it.

we don't have many fire escapes in kansas….

we walked to the 9/11 M emorial.

it was very quiet in here….right in the middle of the city.
the waterfalls and pools are so big.

i can't imagine what it was like for people in New York City on 9/11.
i looked around and was trying to comprehend it….
all i could think was "i hate that day"
i was far away from new york and i hate that day for me.
i was so scared for my children and my husband.
so i just can't imagine how the people of new york feel.
the people who saw it with their own eyes…who lost family and friends….
i hate that day.

the memorial is beautiful.
it is a lovely place to honor the people who lost their lives.
but it's sickening that it has to be there at all.
evil.
evil in this fallen world.
but i was thankful for that beautiful quiet place.

we took a ferry boat to the statue of liberty.

she's lovely… just like i thought.

storms were rolling in.

after the statue of liberty we also took a tour of Ellis Island.
and it poured rain outside.
POURED.

i did not stay dry.

and i didn't stay very chipper about it either…..

i am a girl.

i don't like to get rained on.

we ate dinner in Little Italy.
it was so weird…they hassle you to get you to come eat at their restaurant?!
begging you to come in…try THEIR food….whadda ya lookin' for tonight folks?
with heavy new york accents.
we chose the ONE place that didn't do that.
and it was yummy.

one more new york post tomorrow.

show hide 40 comments

add a comment

Kami - I too did NOT want to leave that store! Isn’t New York so amazing?!
Did you come home and roll around in your backyard when you got home? I did. As much as I love to visit NYC I LOVE to come home too. 🙂
ps. Your photo of the Statue of Liberty is beautiful!!

Martha - OMG…Fish Eddy’s. I NEED to go. That place looks amazing!!

Jenna - I have loved every single one of your NYC pictures! Thank you!!

Kelly - I do love Fishs Eddy! I have polka dotted drinking glasses from there.
I like Lombardy’s in Little Italy. Kelly

tiffany gardner - My brother has lived there for the last 20 years and my hubby and I lived there after college. Thanks for bringing back some memories to me today. NYC and its people hold a special place in my little oklahoma heart.

Cari - Oh my gosh! I have been obsessed with Fishs Eddy online for years!! How stinking cool you got to go to the store! Yay for you!!

Donna R - Awesome pics on my hometown. When I go back now I love to stop in Fish’s Eddy. Don’t you just wish you could pack the whole store up and take it with you?? 😉

Kimberly Dial - Loved your pics … lots of fire escapes … I hate 9/11 too … it’s the only day as an adult that I was afraid to go to sleep that night … eerily quiet … not sure what the morning would bring. I’ve been to NYC (prior to 9/11) & I hope to return some day to see the memorial … so many sacrifices made that day … God help us :/

karen gerstenberger - I would have stayed in that store with you for another hour!
Thank you for posting about the 9/11 memorial. I have never been to NYC and your photos – the perspective in your photos AND words – are some of the clearest and most personal I’ve seen/heard. Thank you for that. And I loved your Statue of Liberty photos!

jennie - I was at Ground Zero yesterday and Fish’s Eddy this morning before catching the train home. I would have been too, too excited if we had been there at the same time. Hope you had a great trip. Couldn’t you have sifted through the piles of dishes for hours?

Kimberlee Jost - Let’s go soon.
Like tomorrow.

Patty - Oh my…that store. Wow. I need to go. That’s for opening my eyes! What a treat.

Janine - I hope you made it to Puglia’s in Little Italy. Great food and such a fun place. The whole restaurant comes together and parties – standing on chairs waving napkins, singing, table war chants. I live so close and haven’t been in a while. I’ll have to trek in and be touristy one weekend. Your pictures are beautiful. That statue of liberty pic could be a post card!

Rebecca - Oh, my kids go to school in the big silver wavy building! I lived 6 blocks from the WTC on 9/11 & it was shitty, shitty, shitty, awful day and really hard time to follow. Thankfully the neighborhood is back bigger and stronger. I still haven’t been to the memorial. Just not sure how I feel about being right in there.
Fishs Eddy is an awesome store.

Leah - Amazing pictures! I feel like I’m in NY. And I seriously just teared up and started crying looking at the 9/11 Memorial photos the Statue of Liberty. I depicted the memorial beautifully. Thanks for the reminder of freedom – both from 9/11 and the Lady Liberty!

Christi @ the brown shed - I love all of your photos! We went to NYC at Christmastime. It was grand. Fishs Eddie was on my list, but after I see your photos, I am almost glad I didn’t make it there. I would have gone totally nuts! I did make it to ABC Carpet and Home… did you go there? That was fun. We ate at the best place in Little Italy. Da Nico’s. Ferrara’s bakery is just down the street from there, and it was soooo good. We also loved Magnolia Bakery. I can’t wait to go again someday.

Tracy Fisher - love that shop. had never heard of it. so, thanks! what fun. one day i’d love to visit nyc. one day 🙂 -tracy

Dara - love the fire escape pictures! I’m in kansas too – where are you? I would love to visit the barn you mentioned!

Sarah - You are beautiful. I love that shot of you in front of the Statue of Liberty and that last shot?! Stinking amazing! Perfect.

happygirl - Wow, what great shots. I haven’t been to the 9/11 monument yet. I can’t believe I wrote about 9/11 in my blog post today. Weird how things like that happen. I’m going to NYC in Feb. I’m sure all my shots will have a gray sky. 🙂

vicki - I am weak in the knees over Fishs Eddy. Oh love….

jan - Love your pictures of New York! My husband and I were there at the same time you guys were… we were visiting our oldest son who moved to the city in April. Like you, we visited the 9-11 Memorial. Our first trip to NYC was in December 2000… just a few months prior to that evil day. We have pictures of our boys on the top of the World Trade Center, so standing in that same spot was very sad. On a happier note…. where in the world is Fishs Eddy, and WHY did I not know about it??? I did find Anthro though… I do love their displays and styling! Thanks for sharing!

Cynthiaj - I discovered Fishs Eddy by accident in 1996, wandering in there while on a trip to NYC chaperoning the church youth group… I almost died, I loved it so. I’ve made an effort to go back on subsequent trips and have ordered stuff online. Should have known it would be right up your alley! (The store across the street, ABC Carpet and Home, used to be such a fabulous funky place, but it has gone seriously upscale and it’s no fun to visit anymore.)

Pamela Gordon - I am enjoying your posts on NYC. I am going there in November (not the nicest time of year) on a choir tour (we’re singing with a mass choir at Carnegie Hall!!!). I’ve never been there before so in seeing your photos I am getting excited. I will take photos of buildings too, and signs and people and fire escapes, because that’s what I’m interested in. We’re staying on Times Square! Woot!!! Thanks for sharing these awesome pics! Pamela

Dianne - Love your NYC pictures. Will visit Fishs Eddy if I ever get a chance to go there! Would love to see the t-shirt and hear more about your apartment arrangement. I have a large family and sometimes staying in a hotel isn’t a great fit for us. Our family drove through Kansas last week and stopped in Wichita for lunch. Pretty country – a lot like my Oklahoma, but nicer roads and amazing windmills and silos.

jill - Not to make you crazy jealous, but I work 3 blocks from Fishes Eddy. Then again I live in a 900 sq foot apt with no outdoor space, so every place has it’s ups and downs. I drool over the barn stores you get to go to! Anyway, even though I’ve been to Fishes Eddy many times, I really enjoyed seeing it through your eyes. I don’t think I’ve ever paid that much attention to the display cases, next time I go there, I will look at them and think of you. =)

Mindi - Oh I forgot to tell you yesterday in my comments, we are going to an Avett Brothers concert in Central Park while we are there! I think you like them, right? They are my husbands fav!

Kim - i have heard about this Fish’s Eddy place, and caught glimpses. but those mugs.
i need to book myself a flight to NYC just to get one.

Stephany - Thanks for sharing.
I would love to go to NYC someday.
I’ll definitely find Fishs Eddy,,,

seriously sassy mama - I must have the collanders. I love the pics of the city. I have never been to New York.

Shannon - great pics of New York and that store, Fish Eddy’s looks amazing! I’m sure I would spend way too much time admiring all their goodies

Juli - Years ago my two teen daughters and I were in NYC for a dance week. The two highlights: I got to take a dance class at the Alvin Ailey school, and our hotel was right around the corner from Fishs Eddy. I’d never heard of it before our visit–what a treat! Like you, I loved every single thing in the place.

Ashlyn@Pinecone - I love Fishs Eddy soooooo much. We are living in upstate NY now, and every time we go into the city I have to go there. It is always the issue of how much I want to walk around with all day though – so I usually get a new dish towel or something. Makes me happy ;))
Great photos!!!!!!! xo

angela - love love your blog (i’ve said it before) but this post. the 9/11 tribute, your words. Gosh, thank you so much for sharing!
i was in NYC (first.only) in july of 2003 – and the site was a hole – but very silent and moving….thank you for giving me a glimpse of what is there today.

Rochelle - What a fun trip! I’m reading a fascinating book right now about 9/11 called The Harbinger. It shows the relationship between the prophecy of Isaiah 9:10-11 and the events related to 9/11 in novel form. You should check it out!

KirstenP - What is the tall white building(or maybe it’s two tall white buildings connected to each other) with the wavy sides? It’s cool. It’s the photo above the one with the tall red metal sculpture.

Lacey - I’ve never even heard of Fishs Eddy but it looks like it’s going to be a new favorite. I see more city than I do corn fields in Atlanta. I was in Indiana two weeks ago and was blown away by barns, soy bean fields, and dirt roads and this week you are in the super city. It’s amazing how we all live in such different places. I love this world. Great pics!

Tiffany - Fishs Eddy is prolly like your barn shops jacked up on Mountain Dew for you. I love how they brought the barn to NYC though, love that. Very colorful vibrant shots of NY.

Terrie - I love all of your NYC photos. I’ve never been there and would love to go.
I would love to go to that shop! Oh.My.Goodnes.!! How did you get out without buying one of everything?!
And your photos of the 9/11 Memorial brought tears to my eyes.
Our family has a connection to one of the families…because our son wanted to donate to a family.
I blogged about our connection last year….still breaks my heart.
Someday, I want to go and pay my respects to the families who lost so much.
Thanks for sharing!!

Mandy - Fishs Eddy?? Oh my goodness!! How did I not know of this place? I could’ve have spent all day in there. I clicked on over to their site and I’ve already made my Christmas wish list!!!

Share on Facebook•Tweet this Post•Pin Images to Pinterest•Back to Top

NYC

July 23, 2012

last week craig and i got all our kids off to three different places
and we hopped on a plane to New York City.

we were meeting chicago jen & dave for four days together.

we ate at very fun places.

it was dave's 40th birthday.
letterman's guests were Roseanne, audrey plaza and Jeff the brotherhood.
it was SO cool to see that show IN PERSON after watching it my whole life.
really cool.
dave had been working on tickets for months for us to get to come….thank you dave!!

and we popped into the hello deli.

IMG_4456-4

times square.

dinner at R Lounge overlooking times square….very fun!

dessert at carnegie deli….cheesecake.
(sorry carnegie… pam's cheesecake is still better)

we rented an apartment through vrbo.com so we could have our down time together instead of 2 hotel rooms.
it worked out well!
this is the view off the roof…pretty sweet.

how do you feel when you look at that picture?
i wanted to go straight back to my little farm house and take a nap.
🙂

i will share more pics tomorrow.
it was great to get away.
it was great to come back home.
and always so good to see our chicago friends.

show hide 39 comments

add a comment

Yaz - I cannot believe you were in NYC…. I live a quick train ride away:) great pics

Kelly - So fun that y’all did this and great idea to stay in an apartment! love the dress as always! Kelly

Audrey - Beautiful pics!!! Could definitely use one of those milk glass cake stands, or one in every color! Heading over to their website now!
http://www.SpilledMilkStyle.com
A blog for stylish moms despite all the spilled milk!

Mindy Harris - megan that looks like a BLAST! i have never been to nyc but want to go so bad!

Jessica - I feel like I was right there with you. You are an a.ma.zing photographer Meg! I love all the pictures and can’t wait to see more!

laura b - That pic with all the cabs was CRAZY! I can’t even imagine. I haven’t been to NYC, but it’s on my bucket list. Can’t wait to see more photos!

Julia @the BackLoop - Awesome! I’m trying to get 3 days in NY to hang out with my sister before November. Once my little lady is completely weaned (we’re thiiiiiiiiis close) my husband has given me the green light to go to New York BY MYSELF!

Kori - NYC is my favorite. FAVORITE!! 😀

jeri - I wanted to go to NYC but after seeing those pictures of all those people I think I will stay in quiet Denver! Cool pics though.

Barbara - YAY Craig and Meg! So happy for you that you got to get away and celebrate with your friends! Looking forward to seeing more pics tomorrow.

Kristin S - Brilliant to rent an apt through VRBO! All I ever think of is the beach or the mountains for them. Brilliant!!!
Loved seeing your Instagram updates.

Valerie @ Chateau A La Mode - I love trips like that. Looks like you had a great time. I know what you mean, New York is such a fun place to visit, but wouldn’t want to live there 😉

Heather S. - I think I got hives from those photos! Ha! I’m a *live out in the county* kind of girl. I have found that I really like some cities, like San Francisco…but NYC just looks…well, dirty and cramped. I’m sure there is a lot of cool things to see and do, though. So glad you got to spend the time with friends. We are taking a 4 day trip to the Smoky Mountains with our best beds this fall. I’m REALLY looking forward to that!

Leslie Davison - We went to NYC in March, for the first time. We took the whole family. I just uploaded some of the pics to my facebook today, coincidence :). Looking at your pictures was fun! Thanks for sharing.

Mary - Looks fantastic! Will you share which vbro apartment you rented? We’re looking to do the same thing and would love a recommendation.

Kimberly Dial - I <3 NYC! One of my favorite places in the whole world! That pic made me wanna go ... and I can't ... and that makes me 🙁 How awesome that you got to visit spend time with your Chicago friends in the Big Apple. YAY you! Thanks for sharing ... I can't wait to see more.

Lisa - My only time visiting NYC was when I was 22 yrs old. A loooong time ago. 😉 Such a fun, crazy place to visit. But a bit of sensory overload! haha! Glad you had a getaway!

Lisa - An apartment instead of hotel…genius! Looks like a great vacation. Times Square looks like it was made for you – all that color! Thanks for sharing.

karen gerstenberger - I’m so happy that you got to make this trip with your sweetie and your good friends. Love the “Soup Nazi” – I mean, “Soup Man” photo (I hope you’re a Seinfeld fan and get that reference)!

Melanie - Glad you had a good time, but after seeing these pics of NYC, it only confirms my notion that I have absolutely NO desire to ever go there!
Hugs,
Melanie
(from the Chicago ‘burbs)

BriBedell - Looks awesome!!

kerry - Wowza’s what an awesome couple of days! You are such a cute couple – I’m coming over to NYC for my 30th next year.. can’t wait xx

Mindi - How fun! We just booked a trip to NYC for our 10 year anniversary! I am a small town girl too and I am a bit anxious when I think of being there but am so excited to get away with my man.
Would love to hear any tips or pointers and places to definitely not miss!

Christy - My home state woohooo!! I grew up on the Island with lots of trips into the city 🙂

seriously sassy mama - An apartment in the city is the way to go. I love the pics of the city. The pic of the traffic is excitement to me. I love all the business and colors.

Tiffany - WHATEVER! You were on the East Coast, hope it was good to you. A little grown up time never hurts.

Kae - I live in NY! Bummed I didn’t bump into you!! Love the photos as well….your photography just gets better & better!

Dani - I get all happy when I see pics of NYC. Years ago (before hubby and kids) that is where I wanted to be. Right in the middle of all the chaos! Now I look at my husband and three kids and realize I am right where God intended for me to be. Yes, I’d love to visit… just not live there!

shiela - luv nyc!

Paul - Wow! I’d love to visit New York one day!

Alicia @ La Famille - wow! that taxi picture gives me an anxiety attack!! i would love to visit there, but not to live. looks like a great time!

Lacey - Looks like such a great trip. I really want to go to NYC again soon. I haven’t been in such a long time. Looks crazy busy in most of those pics. Thanks for sharing I love all of the pictures you take.

aimee - oh, you were here! so close by! and how wonderful that you managed to take off together sans kids… that time alone is essential! glad you enjoyed your trip. xo

Jenna - I really do “love NY” … the pictures made me smile!

julie - So rad to get away. Especially with your best friends. The apartment is geniuse. Love vrbo.
New York stresses me out a little, (a lot) but someday I would love to go.

Sarah Wolfe - I went to college in downtown Chicago. Leaving my little country home, it was a little bit of a shock. But I grew to love the big city, and there’s a part of me that will always feel at home in a big mass of people. Never been to NYC, but want to some day 🙂 Great pics.

Dawn from Alberta - Love New York City and really love your perspective and photos. Thanks! What I really want to know is……did you buy one of those Statue of Liberty knickknacks?

happygirl - I <3 NYC so much. So cool you got to have a getaway time with friends. I couldn't have done the Letterman show. He makes me nuts. I love your pics. And I can't believe you have a cardigan on. Was it chilly? Fun fun fun.

Gina in Louisville - How on earth did you make arrangements for all of your kids for four days? I am amazed and honestly a little jealous. My husband and I need something like this so badly. We were planning a trip but had to cancel because of money but also the stress of placing the kids. We have two teenage boys. It seemed so much easier when they were younger. It was so easy to make them happy and going to the dollar store was an adventure.

Share on Facebook•Tweet this Post•Pin Images to Pinterest•Back to Top

lovely day

July 16, 2012

last week we had an impromptu party with friends.
it started with a simple request to swim at the pond and turned into a full blown dinner party.
it was awesome.

the weather was perfection.

we played with new adorable friends who thought my kids were FUN!

they swam a full 3 hours at least.

the world's smiley-est baby was there.

Sean and Jackson were buddies.
they jumped off the dock, swam & jackson even pushed sean in! (after he asked permission in his cute toddler voice)
i was so proud of watching sean interact with him.
and then Sean very politely asked "can you play with him now mom?" ha ha ha
and i said "YES!"
and we buried our feet for about 30 minutes.
i missed my babies.

my mom, my niece and sister came too.

suddenly annie was tired.
so tired.

she needed some shade time. :)

such a beautiful day.
good friends….old friends….family…..my favorite place to be.

i even got in the water!
and only felt one fish on my sparkley toes.
{{shivers}}

how are you keeping COOL this summer?
or are you melting away most of the time like we are.

show hide 27 comments

add a comment

shea B - I caught my first fish, a rainbow trout, when I was almost three. I’ve loved it ever since. I eventually started baiting my own hook and then moved on to taking the fish off the hook. I’m 33 now and I still love to go to the river. My two little girls, who are 1 and 3, had their first fishing experience on Father’s Day. They squealed with delight while reeling it in and then freaked and burst into tears when they saw the fish flopping around on the ground. Memories! I’m glad you let your kiddos experience things even if you’re not a big fan.

Audrey - Sorry this got posted twice!

Audrey - What an amazing family day! I haven’t been fishing in a long time and sadly my 2 year old son never has. Probably because I don’t trust him not to get hooked!
http://www.SpilledMilkStyle.com
A blog for stylish moms despite all the spilled milk!

Audrey - What an amazing family day! I haven’t been fishing in a LONG time and actually my two year old son never has. Probably because I don’t trust him to not get hooked!
http://www.SpilledMilkStyle.com
A blog for stylish moms despite all the spilled milk!

Alicia @ La Famille - fun! that’s what summer’s all about 🙂

Dani - I hated lakes and ponds as a kid. I NEED to see what is around my feet!!! We played in small creeks when I was younger. That I could handle. Looks like y’all had an amazing time! Love the pics!

Prairie Jenn - It is hot enough to melt this year:( We are keeping cool in the sprinkler and the creek. Love your photos! Looks like a wonderful day and the very best way to keep cool…swimming with friends:)

Mindy Harris - ponds and lakes gross me out cuz you can’t see what’s in them, but, man this looks super fun!

Michelle From Australia - It’s winter here in Australia. But thankfully we live in the sub-tropics so it is 70 degrees here today 🙂 Loving your pics of Summer fun though and counting down the days until our family will be able to enjoy our month in the USA in November this year 🙂 🙂

Carolyne - we are actually shivering from cold weather here in Australia….cranking the heat up and snuggling under blankets for us. Meg I love your blog and specially your craft weekends which is only a dream for this girl.

christine ishmael - Fish touching my feet creeps me out too! Looks like so much fun, that house is awesome!

karen gerstenberger - It’s crazy, but it has been a cool summer here, so far. Not much above 80, and some days in the 50s and 60s (like yesterday), so we’ve actually kept cool naturally. David and I took an 8-mile beach hike yesterday (his gift to me) and we were wearing layers – t-shirts, Dri-Fit, windbreaker, etc. I wish I could send you some of this salty, cool marine air!
I just love your blog, Meg. Thank you for writing.

Sandy - Looks like fun!!
The picture of Annie jumping in behind the pedal boat (do I remember right?…is that what they are called???) should have the caption “wait for MMEEE!” ha ha 🙂
Also, Annie looks like a model in the picture where you said she got tired. Your kids are gorgeous!

Tracy Fisher - love love love the SIMPLE stuff! thanks for sharing. -tracy

Katie N. - We moved to SW MI this spring and are at the beach all the time. Totally amazing especially with friends!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Meg's Mom - What a great idea, you had! I had such a good time catching up with everyone. And the weather was great. Thanks Carolyn for sharing your home!

roganne - Wow! That lake is fantastic! Growing up our pond at home was mostly moss and mud (and the occasional snapping turtle). I love your pics of the kids jumping…they look like they belong in a summer Crew Cuts catalog for swimwear!

happygirl - Great pics and I so love your boy asking for time off for good behavior. I know what you mean about the fish nibbles. I’m not a fan. I blogged about it here. http://beinghappygirl.blogspot.com/2012/07/hot-hurting-and-happy.html

Lorel - That really was a lovely day. I always feel so “home” with you guys. -happy sigh!- Thanks for everything!

Allison - Super hot in Indiana too and NO rain in sight 🙁 Nothing better than spending the day by the water with good people.

Kerstie Pederson - We are unseasonable cool in my part of CA. My boys have only gotten into the kiddy pool twice. Bummer for them as they LOVE water. Joined Instagram over the weekend and started following you. You were right it is totally fun!!!

Natalie - Looks like you had a lot of fun in the water. Brilliant photos than you for sharing with us 🙂

Trish @TheOldPostRoad - Unbelievably hot in Georgia, right now. The little beach/sand area next to the pond is a great idea! How fun!
-Trish

ko. s - Such fun you have my dear!!! We are melting away over here 🙂

Kimberly Dial - We’ve been melting here in WV too. I’ve been in the water more this summer than in the last 10 years combined (that may be a slight exaggeration but hey, it’s been hot, hot, hot & I’m not thinking clearly 😉 Looks like you all had fun. Nothing like family & good friends. Thanks for sharing!

elma - I mean looks:)

elma - What wonderful pictures!!! Lookes like the best of times!!!!

Share on Facebook•Tweet this Post•Pin Images to Pinterest•Back to Top

4th of july

July 5, 2012

we went to my friend Dianna's again for their 4th of July party.
they have the perfect set up.

IMG_3302-2

this year it just happened to be that our two girls were the only girls….and tons of boys!

my friend GB made adorable cookies. (i forgot to get one….darn)

party food is always so fun!
i love to see what people bring.
and try almost all of it.

i made the blueberry buckle i make every year.
with blueberries on sale right now you need to make this!
i mean it!
make blueberry buckle and even blueberry buckle muffins.

talby was close so we snagged her for a picture. :)

dianna brought out their baby box turtles that their pet turtles hatched on st. patricks day!!

i don't know if i have ever seen anything cuter!

ADORABLE!!!

this is the top 5 feet of her 12 foot sunflower plant!

the fireworks began after dinner…

the hostess with the mostess.

time out/cuddle time.

this is when all the kids were lighting fireworks.
when it gets dark, everyone gets in their chairs and watches the neighbors professional level fireworks show!

it went on and on!!

seriously…..an awesome fourth.

how was yours?
what did you do?
are you sleepy today like me?

show hide 38 comments

add a comment

Vicki - Ok. I know this is a completely inappropriate question, but I must ask: What kind of bra do you wear under a dress like that?? I love thin straps and summery dresses, but at a 36D, I can’t find a strapless bra that works. I can’t figure out how to wear that stuff without ugly bra straps hanging out!

Holly - what an awesome fourth! We spent ours on the beach which was great as well!

Library Momma - Cute hair!

Jenny B - I love the pretty food and the cute turtles!! I’m a little jealous of the fireworks. We have burn bans pretty much EVERYWHERE in Arkansas, so did not get to shoot off any this year. It was strangely quiet. Fourth of July is my favorite holiday, so it was a little depressing! Plus, our kids are alternating time with their grandparents this week, and the fourth ended up being the day we drove to drop off one child and pick up the other. Oh, well… I’m still thankful for our freedom! 🙂

di - Thanks for all the great pics, Meg! So glad your fam could be a part of our annual tradition. You were adorable in your cute dress (she is for REALS, folks!) NOW about that last piece of blueberry buckle you were hiding…that would have been a tasty treat for a certain running buddy, hmmm?

Angela - You are beautiful – do you know that? I’ve been reading your blog for a while now, but I don’t think I’ve ever commented. Anyway, love the blog. 🙂 I did nothing on the actual 4th, but my church small group went to a town nearby and watched the fireworks show around their town square! It was a great time and we got to celebrate with a friend who just found out she and her husband are expecting their first!

new jersey landscape lighting - this is such a cute blog, thank you!

Han - I live in the UK so the closest we get to that many fireworks would be NYE. I wish our community was more like that – we all seem to keep to our thing and don’t speak to each other.

Crystal Swoverland - The box turtles are amazing! I can’t get them around here…we grew up with them and I am trying to get one for my family but no luck! Can you ask your friend where she got them? I really, really am desperate to find one for my kids! Thanks Meg!

Ashley - You look gorgeous! The shot of the three of you is so pretty…one to use at her wedding one day. Can you send me some blueberry buckle? I will make it this year. Gonna do it.

katey - Those turtles are so cute! My brother had (and at 46 still does) a turtle pen and so we had baby turtles like occasionally and it’s amazing to watch them grown. Thanks for sharing. Brought back lots of great memories.

karen - it’s amazing how much sean and annie have changed!!

A Facebook User - my 4th of july started with a bang….I got a phone call that my 16 year old son passed out/had a seizure and fell while at his job. so, we spent the morning in the ER getting X-rays of his nose-broken-and getting a heart monitor to wear for the next 24 hours. 24 hours later, he has the biggest bruised/scraped nose and the worst headache ever, but we now are fairly certain we can blame it on his new medication for ankylosing spondylitis. I don’t want to repeat this again next year…..

April R - Happy 4th! 🙂
Thanks for sharing – again!
That celebration looks like fun for everyone.
And I totally agree with Mindy about the bathing suits – Annie and Talby look so beautiful 🙂

Jen Brandt - Love the picture of you, hubby, and Talby. You look beautiful! Looks like a great day.
We were in a HOT, HOT, HOT parade, Wendy’s frosties on the way home, changed and headed to our friends house for pool time, delicious food, and fun!

seriously sassy mama - We enjoyed our towns parade, then spent some time and the lake. We finished the night out with some awesome fireworks. We just moved back to out hometown, so for my husband and I it was fun to reminisce.

Brandi - So jealous that you can have your own fireworks. What a great day!!

Carol S. - So is that what running almost every day does to a gal? Like the others have said, you look FAB and are radiant. I want that look (but not looking forward to running, wah, wah). We went to a local festival and were late getting to the fireworks, so watched them from the road in different directions and enjoyed baskin robbin ice cream to end the day. Happy July!

Jessica Johnson - Annie with the turtle?! And the patriotic nails?!! DYING! Frame that. Also, I want buckle. And your haircut. Goodbye.

joyce - looks like an amazing day! I so want one of those turtles, they are so cute!

Mindy Harris - can i just say i love that your girls wear modest bathing suits?
so refreshing.
annie is so tan. what a doll.
i love your 4th outfit! cute cute.
we went back home to chanute and swam alot. wilder didn’t like the loud booms so we honestly didn’t really see fireworks this year…

Tiffany - Summer looks good on you, you are looking so young, what is your secret!!!

Samantha Bayer - looks like so much fun and yes, i’m sleep today too!

Juliane - What a good 4th! I love how fireworks are really celebrating with light and with color. I like to bring that celebration indoors as well with the bright hues I’ve been able to find in wall art.

Lorie - I’m so jealous! Your grass looks so green. We have such a drought out here, our lawns are the color of wheat fields, and there was a ban on fireworks. Seriously. Some very stupid men went ahead and did it, and started a 2 acre fire between houses, and are now in jail. Not a very fun 4th. 🙁

jessicakiehn - That blueberry buckle cake is my FAVORITE type of dessert…thanks to that fabulous streusel top!!!

shannon - So fun! Love the 4th of July and all the festive red, white and blue foods and decorations. I am always tired after a great day celebrating 🙂

Kristin S - Meg, you have a stunning family and I’m not sure you can take a poor picture. You are so pretty!!!

Jessica @ MyArdentLife - Cutie-cute-cute-cute hair, Meg! If I thought I could do short hair, I would so be taking this pic to my stylist. Maybe after I lose all these post-baby pounds and my face looks thinner. Since my baby just turned ONE, I should step it up, huh?

Logan - Looks like such a fun time. Makes me wish we had a 4th like that! We used the day to work on projects at the house and stopped mid-afternoon to grill burgers and hot dogs with our daughter and her boyfriend and another close friend. I am wondering if you have ever tried your Blueberry Buckle recipe with a different fruit? Would it work with peaches? What do you think?
Thanks!

Leslie - What fun!! Love your fireworks!!! In our part of Calif we can only do the ones on the ground.

lindsey - Looks like you had fun! You looked so cute! My 4th was so uneventful due to the fire danger (no fireworks) and a sick kid.

thehandmadehomemaker.blogspot.com - LOVE that picture with you, Talby and Craig!! Looking so pretty and the dress is FAB!

Debby - Al and I drove through the night on the 3rd back from Arkansas, so we were too pooped to go to Joel and Jess’. Ended up watching just a little from the back deck. These south neighborhoods really light up! Went to bed early and didn’t hear a thing after our heads hit the pillow. Meg, do you know you just get prettier with age? Thanks for showing the photos from your neighborhood!

sara @ it's good to be queen - your dress is amazing. love it. also, rad firework show!!

Jennifer - great 4th! cute dress!

Leah - Love your pictures! And your dress is so cute! Dress Barn? I love July 4th. Here’s a quick glimpse of some of our patriotism: http://leahsthoughts.com/2012/07/04/wordless-wednesday-red-white-and-blue/

Rachel J - We haven’t had rain in soooooo long that they cancelled all fireworks due to the danger. So that was a major boo! But, we had a BBQ at my parents, ate ice cream while driving around town and had a slumber party. Who says adults can’t have fun? 🙂

Share on Facebook•Tweet this Post•Pin Images to Pinterest•Back to Top

search

Search for:
Instagram
Categories

Categories
Archives
Archives

Category Archives: friends

search

Instagram

Categories

Archives