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fall…. i like it.

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in case you don't know….these are called hedge apples around here.


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i took most of these within the mile of my my house….down the road and in the yard.

fall in kansas is so pretty.
the temperture is just right….except if you have to sit in the rain at a soccer game when it's 40 degrees….
and you start to cry a little bit….
not that i would know about that.

ha ha ha

i like adding the extra blanket on the bed….wearing more layers…crisp nights. 

my favorite time of year in kansas is the fall.

do you like Fall where you live?
does it look like this?

 

 

 

gkgirl - beautiful shots!

Victoria - Okay, it’s official, I’m moving to Kansas! What gorgeous pictures!
Fall is my favorite time of year but in Atlanta sometimes fall skips right over us and that makes me sad.

Andrea - Beautiful photos! I always take pictures of flowers/grass/leaves/stumps…what do I do with them? Make my husband look at them and make him say, “Those are nice, honey!”

Colleen - Around here “hedge apples” are called…. Monkey Balls– we used to throw them at each other during recess. When my husband’s 8th grade class had a 30th year reunion, one of the girls made centerpieces out of the Monkey Balls.

rmd - I’m in Montana. It DID look so pretty and then it snowed and everything froze and turned black 🙁

Becky - Thank you for the beautiful Kansas pictures! I used to live in Buhler, now in Wisconsin. Fond memories-I loved it there! Our fall in WI is beautiful as well.

Rach - It must be hard to move from such a personalized home to a place you call home. I have lived in rentals my whole life save the house we currently live in which is our first owned space, but I never thought I’d be able to own anything, so I made every space I lived in my “own” space. That must be difficult after spending so much time on the craft house. Hey, as long as it’s safe and fun and you enjoy being there, who cares if it’s not decorated the way you’d like. A home is where you make memories. It doesn’t have to be perfect.

Gail - I know the weather has been wonderful here lately. The trees look so pretty. I love using our fire pit this time of year. But it is Kansas, we could have either 90’s or snow in a few days.

jennibell - You could make all your Christmas spending money but putting these in your Etsy shop I bet 🙂 I wish I could photograph like this. . .just beautiful.

Erin - beautiful photos as always! Where we live, Fall looks like….well…summer. (Hilton Head Is., SC) And while it’s still very beautiful here, it’s not very Fallish! I grew up experiencing the beautiful Falls of North Carolina.

ejmurn@gmail.com - Meg- I’ve always been a fan of your photos but these are by far my favorite!! You’re making this city girl long for afternoon hikes in the country… crispy crunch leaves underfoot, thermos of tea, scarves…. love it!

Tas - I’m starting to love fall seeing those amazing pictures. Actually, I live in a tropical country and we don’t have fall. I envy you guys.

aimee - I miss Kansas.
Thanks for your beautiful pics, Meg.

Amber - I LOVE it and it looks a lot like that. Then again I only live an hour or two away. 🙂 Kansas is my favorite place and fall is my favorite season. Very happy. Now, if only I had a pumpkin spice latte I’d be set.

Kimberly Dial - Fall is my all time fave & I’m convinced Heaven’s atmosphere & climate is Fall-like all year long! Thanks for sharing!

Kirsten J - Really it’s my least favorite season….here in Seattle, it means it’s going to start raining and keep raining for the next 6 months. But. Ive tried to embrace it more the last few years. It is really pretty when the leaves change. And I do like the extra quilt on the bed. And cooking in the slow cooker. And it means Christmas is coming. See? I’m trying…..

Tonya - Hi Meg we call them osage oranges here in central PA. Pics are so pretty! We will have full color in about two weeks here and it is not as flat but the colors look similar.

Suzanne - oh my, that red barn, I die!! fall is my faves too!

Valerie @ Chateau a La Mode - I do love fall where I live ( 30 miles north of LA). It’s usually still hot in September but about now it starts to turn cooler in the morning and evening. I wore a sweatshirt, with my shorts and flip flops, but I was able to where the sweatshirt. I am making soup for dinner tomorrow night and I did put, not an extra blanket, but a blanket on our bed! It looks very pretty where you are. happy Fall!

Debby - Fall is my favorite too. Hannah calls hedge balls, hedge hogs! Ha ha!!

the.mrs - MN = lovely lovely LOVELY for about a week and then poof they’re gone. My favorite is Spring. It means our cold nasty winters are over! 😉 My husband (from Mexico) ‘s favorite season… Winter. Craaazy man, I tell ya. Crazy!

Krista - We call them hedge apples here in Indiana, too! And in case you didn’t know, if you put a hedge apple in each room of your house, it keeps the spiders away! I swear by it! 🙂 love, love, love your blog!

Tiffany - Fall in MN is bea-u-tiful! Although I’m a lil sad looking at your photos because leaves are just turning for you, and I fear they will be almost gone for us soon. End of fall means start of our long nasty winter… and I’m not such a fan of that. Especially the yucky driving in the snow part. 🙁 I did get some beautiful family pictures in our fall colors, right on our country driveway though!

Jenn - Fall is my favorite too! Unfortunately, here in Texas we don’t get falls like you do in Kansas :(. So pretty!

Lisa - I use to live in southern CA where fall was hot and not my favorite. Now I live in the high desert of Oregon and love fall! I dont live where all the rain is so its not quite as beautiful with all the colors but the weather is crisp and cool and the colors do start changing! I love having actual seasons.

Tracey - I love fall and spring. I just adore those “change” seasons. And everything is so pretty at both those times. Here in Texas summer and winter are not typically pretty. During both times things are generally dead. My other favorite thing about both fall and spring is the monarchs. They fly thru here and whenever I see them I know that the seasons are truly changing.

Martha - Beautiful pictures! Fall is definitely my favorite season!

jen - We have the most brilliant coloured trees up here in Ontario. Neon oranges and reds! I always like to see what a place looks like through the changes of the seasons, somewhere else in the world!

Janelle - I live in the Virgin Islands so my fall looks NOTHING like that. But I grew up in Indiana so I LOVE looking at these photos – thanks!! I miss fall…I’m currently sitting outside at 8pm where a tropical shower just passed and I’m sweating!

Ashlyn@Pinecone - We were just looking around for out extra blankets!
I had to grin at your soccer story. We don’t do soccer, but we have been at a lot of swim meets – and have complaining the last few weeks about how hot it is in the pool area. Now that it is really starting to cool off outside – I think that will feel mighty nice : )
Great photos!

Charlton - so true! 🙂

Charlton - Houston doesn’t really have fall. 🙁 We had fallish weather for 2 days this week, but today is was back up to an 87 degree high. boo! My 4 year old asked me a month ago if she could jump in a pile of leaves in the fall. My answer was, if I can find a pile of leaves for you, we’ll jump in it! 😉 I love your pictures, though.

Juli - Those are called Mock Oranges here in the South.

Maggie - I love fall but I am a southern California girl and we have not had fall weather, temps have been in the 90s…too hot for fall, I haven’t even wanted to decorate for fall because it still feels like summer… Your pictures of fall are beautiful!

Susan - We don’t have much fall here in Texas! It goes from hot to not so hot to freezing usually in the course of one week:) Most of the foliage around here goes from green straight to brown in the same amount of time!

tonya - fall has always been my favorite season here in ks…i’m on the east edge of the flint hills and it’s beautiful!!! i love that you took a pic of the hedge apples…my brothers and i used to have hedge apple wars! they hurt and are sticky! 😉

alyssa - fall out east is soooo much prettier. you don’t even realize until you are back and get to experience it again…but, Kansas ain’t so bad!

Adrienne - In Texas we call those horse apples… Not sure why 🙂 yesssss I love fall here too, though it comes a bit later in the north Texas area

Stacy M. - I miss fall in Kansas. We were stationed at Ft. Riley for a couple years. Now we live right out side of New Orleans. Just hot here. Our trees don’t turn till Dec. or Jan. Love the pictures thanks for sharing.

Christy - How awesome is that barn! I would love to have family pictures done there.

jordan c - how beautiful! love all these images.

Brenda - I love the picture of the barn! Would you please put it in your etsy shop? I have grown up in Kansas and we are now moving to Savannah, GA and would love to hang that in my new house!

Trinda - I grew up in Hesston and live in the DC area now. Your pics make me feel a little verklempt. My best friend lived about 6 miles west on Dutch Ave and those hedge apples were everywhere! Love checking in with you and seeing my old town. Found you on a fluke! Thanks for being so inspiring.

Liesl - Looks beautiful! Makes me want to wander around the area with my camera and capture fall shots here in NJ….but it’s been raining a lot.

Brooke - Hedge apples? HORSE apples! 🙂 Funny how things like that are regional! Gorgeous photos. This is my favorite time of year!

sarah j - these are stunning, meg.
in seattle-land, we typically have a beautiful, vibrant fall–but we haven’t had nearly any rain in almost 2 months! shattering stereotypes, eh? so we’re a bit dryer and crunchier than normal in the great pacific northwest…

Stephanie - Oh how I miss fall. Your pictures are gorgeous. I lived around the Fort Riley area when I was a kid and loved it. I loved the big blue sky, the waves of endless grass, the snow, even tornado season. Lol. I now live in FL and before that I lived in Las Vegas. There is no color to be seen and frankly it makes me grumpy. We are still battling upper 80s and even 90 degrees. I do have to praise God for cooler, enjoyable mornings.

Tracy - I’m in Kansas, too, and LOVE fall!!! Buuuuttt, winter, not so much.

Laura - after ten years in Los Angeles, I can not Praise God enough for the glorious season of fall in Connecticut!
I met Nick in the fall
I look great in orange
I make wonderful apple pie
I love a grande soy latte with one pump of pumpkin spice
I look better in fall fashion
I live for the fall Vogue
I got engaged and married in the fall
I love the color, the leaves, the air, the deer, the pumpkins
FALL ROCKS
the end.

Jessica - I would love to buy a print of the red barn photo! Put it in the shop, pretty please!!!
Fall is very lovely here in VA. Just starting to see the leaves changing colors.

Kristin S - Yes, my favorite by far! I’m in North Carolina.
Grew up in New England where fall is perfect.
North Carolina is pretty amazing too.
Lived in Orlando, Florida for 3 years. Not so much there. People laying out at the pool on Christmas day. Not so much.

Fefe - Wow, Meg! That picture of the red barn is gorgeous! I couldn’t stop staring at it! I wish I had it in a frame! Anyway, fall in Indiana is very similar. It’s my favorite season as well. I find that as each season comes and goes, I’m ready for it. It reminds that God has really awesome timing. 🙂

angela - Fall in North Carolina is P E R F E C T.

Tiffany - i feel (a lil) bad because the comments are all lovin on fall. im in pa and i dont want it. florida, please? longer days, where art thou? oh sweet summer i miss thee. i really like the 3rd photo of the pink buds, i will take those. fall is pretty, i’ll give you that.

Jen - I’m finding it interesting to read through your comments and see where people are from. You seem to have a lot of readers from my neck of the woods: southwest Ohio. Maybe a day where we all post where we live??? City and state???

mae chevrette - Your blog inspired me to start taking and sharing more big photos (instead of just small/artwork related ones)… I just posted this big photo post about camping during fall in New England… in case you’d like to see A LOT of different colors on a lot of trees 🙂 http://maechevrette.com/blog/2012/10/9/camp-things

Jen - LOVE fall. Ohio falls are beautiful, too, but that Kansas sky…that’s something different. It’s awesome. Bright blue skies, vibrant leaves, crisp air here in OH today. Love my job working for a park district. I’m out in God’s beauty all the time.

Shannon - I love Fall but it is not even close to as gorgeous as it is where you are! I love all these pics Meg, thank you for sharing with us. Oh and I would prob. cry if I was sitting in the rain cold too 😉

Sandy - I’m in southwest Ohio and it looks and feels a lot like your Kansas. Love fall!! (I also love spring and summer!!)

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - Oh, I just love fall!
We call those horse apples 🙂 No idea why… lol.

rae - here in nashville i’ve always called those “hedge apples” monkey brains! haha. a little bit gross. it has been cold here, but not very pretty yet. i can’t wait for the leaves to really start turning

Lisa M. - Beautiful pictures, Meg!
I live in Western Pennsylvania, so yes, fall looks like this. Our trees are on “fire” with color right now. I can see evidence of this out evey window in my house. I love it! It’s gorgeous!
Hands down, my FAVORITE time of year.

Jamie Van Nuys - beautiful photos!! I love all of the colors. We just moved to a new town in California, and I don’t think it’s really fall yet. After living in Seattle during Fall I can say with full confidence what fall looks like there…but I think it has yet to hit our little town of Gilroy 🙂 BUT, we now live in the country which is totally new to me, so I may have to go on a walk close to home and see if I can capture anything fun like you have!

kim - fall is my first love.
it’s so mild here that it sneaks up on you. but this year, there was one morning i woke up and it was most definitely fall.
we had a few indian summer days after that. but each morning i wake up and my room is cool, and i snuggle into my blankets.
it’s a real good fall this year in the bay.

Anne - I love fall in Kansas. The colors are a feast for the eyes. These are great pictures way to capture fall.

Heather S. - Another KS girl here – NE corner, though. Fall is really pretty up here because the land is somewhat hilly and the trees spot the landscape nicely. My fave season, though, will always be spring – it’s the promise that God will never forsake us – new life has come again!
BTW – we call those hedge balls here. Never heard Hedge Apples. Hmmmm….

Cathy - Our fall in southern Ohio looks and sounds a lot like yours in Kansas. Love it!

Christy K - I absolutely LOVE the photos Meg! Perfect examples of fall. So jealous that these are all so close to home… makes me want to take a little road trip and take some pictures of my own! I wish I could say it looked like fall here… it did, for about a week. Then, typical Winnipeg (there is a reason we are nicknamed WINTERpeg) it SNOWED! Now it has been snowing on and off for a week! I was really hoping for a Halloween where we DIDN’T have to account for wearing a parka when buying a costume but, oh well! That’s life on the Canadian Prairies for you! Hope you have a most wonderful day!

Dani - We call those Bodocks. We even have a Bodock Festival every year. It’s pretty fun seeing what people can use the Bodock balls for.

Heidi Jo the Artist - Love fall! The colors have been amazing here in Iowa. Love all the photos, especially the red barn; I’m a sucker for old barns!!
Hey, I know you are probably super busy, just wanted to let you know I sent an e-mail to you a few days ago and to check your spam if you didn’t get it. My crazy name apparently likes to see spam boxes, ha!
Have an awesome day! 🙂

Gretchen - Fall is my favorite in OH. Love the colors. Hedge apples help with fruit flies. I love sweatshirt and jeans weather.

Jodie - It is snowing in my fall today!

Terrie - I love all seasons…not sure that I really have a favorite.
Except I really don’t love extremely hot or cold.
I love the changing of the seasons.
I miss the hedge apples…we had them all over at our farm.
Did you know that they are supposed to keep the crickets out of your basement?
I don’t know if it’s true…but we always had a few scattered around the basement
in old pie tins. I don’t remember if we had crickets…. LOL!!
I love the cool air coming in from an open window and having to put on an extra fluffy blanket!!
Love the pics!!

Jocelyn Pascall - Beautiful photos – truly. I love Fall too!! I so wish I didn’t have to spend all day in an office so I could go out and enjoy the beauty.

Curious Details - it’s beautiful and would be a lovely way to transition to the holidays.
sadly, Houston never looks like that on the outside. gonna be 90 degrees today.
but we fake it pretty good on the inside.

Heidi D. - I just moved to Marshall MN from South Dakota and fall is the same here as SD. Fall colors here were absolutely beautiful for a couple weeks,then the wind was so bad all the leaves fell off. I can’t believe how windy it has been here over the last week and I really could do without it! If it weren’t for the wind it would actually be quite nice out—sweatshirt weather, my favorite:) Love all your pictures, especially the red barn and the multiple wires on the fencepost:)

Lindsay - I live in Indiana & LOVE fall as well. I feel sorry for those that don’t get to experience it the same as we do! Absolutely beautiful to see such a change in seasons! Love your pics by the way, especially the barn!

Linda - I love fall. It’s my favorite season. I live up in the very NW corner of Washington. It’s so beautiful here. Beautiful red maples OH I LOVE IT!!!

Aimee - I live in Central California and we don’t have a nice fall. Its still in the 80s in October and doesn’t get nice and chilly until December, sometimes January. I grew up in Upstate NY so I grew up with amazing falls. I didn’t realize how much I would miss them until I moved here. Now I get so homesick every fall.

elma - I love fall and all the beautiful colors I just do not like what comes after fall:) Lovely pictures!!!

nicole i - so lovely. i wish for fall. we live in the sf bay area…cooler weather and fog…not too many turning leaves. i miss a real fall like in the rockies.

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working on a friday

i am here at the crafty house painting the work tables.
i have a few hours left of that work.
boooooring.
but worth it.
they look so good already….YAY white paint!!

i snapped some shots of pretty things around me this morning to brighten your day.

look at this sweet little mug i found at the thrift store….
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and then look at the inside!
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so sweet right??

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FUN FACT:
my husband got the craft house a new tv.
i don't know how it works.
so i am LISTENING to You've Got Mail.  :)

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i always find sweet dishes while thrifting.
you don't want to know what i am planning on doing with them….

smashing them.
for mosaics….some time…..someday.
i have to have enough before i can take that project on.

don't hate me.
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and this table cloth!!!
those colors…. it's pretty fabulous.
lovely and faded to the perfect worn in reds and yellow.

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and who wouldn't love a crazy bright yellow chenille bedspread?
it's brrrr-iiiight.
but will be perfect on pillows.
🙂

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i have been playing around with fabric combos…

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and putting my hands in the supplies….just because i like it.

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i picked up a pack of 24 spools of ribbon by Amy Tangarine at Joanns.
and the ruffled ribbon is from hobby lobby.
so so happy.

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amy….some pillows were finally made from your kind quilty gift you gave me almost two years ago!
are they not the prettiest pillows you ever have seen?!!
yes.
yes they are.

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new print to hang up this week.
that katie daisy is a ray of sunshine.
she brings me joy every time i look at her work.

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that is my little quilt i found at the barn last month.
i love how it was clearly made from fabric they had…not $10 a yard quilting fabric that just came out this fall.
it's crazy and wonky and doesn't go together.
i love that.

ok.
back to painting.

🙂

happy friday to you.

when i was in 8th grade…i had german class….and i learned that friday was "FREITAG"…pronounced Fri-tog….i still think of that when i am thinking about saying things like "happy friday"….

how was that for a random fact?

 

 

 

 

Heidi Jo the Artist - Such a happy post! Love thrifting! Such a fun coffee cup! Especially love the stack of plates, kicking myself for not getting some at a garage sale now, the story of my life… I do have plenty of broken pieces I’ve been saving for a mosaic piece though, just need to make time to make something now. 😉

faye - i really like the coffee mug.

Lindy - Such happy photos! loved the inside of the coffe mug so much it’s my screen saver—thanks

Heather S. - I totally have that Katie Daisy print in my kitchen right now! Have a great week!

Sandy - LOVE the coffee cup with the surprse inside! 🙂

Katie - You could make garden flowers with those plates/dishes You have to have a special drill bit to drill through glass though!
http://www.etsy.com/search?includes%5B0%5D=materials&q=flower+plate+recycle+glass&ref=related&page=1
but I am sure you mosiac idea will be beautiful too!
pretty pics – thx for sharing!

Lisa - I think this is the happiest blog entry I’ve seen ! I’m saving it for when I need an “upper”. I love all the bright colors, and the fact that you save random china plates – I LOVE random china patterns. I’m excited to see what you do with yours some day. Thanks for the smiles. Your blog is always fun 🙂

amy jupin - i’m feeling so emotional lately.
and just crying at everything.
and of course i get to the part where you made the pillows and i just burst into tears!
i’m a total dork.
all this crying has to stop! it’s exhausting! 🙂
i love the pillows.
and i love you.
mean it.

Mary - such happy things you find!
love em all!
xoxo

Penny - My maiden name is “Freel”. Everytime I see Free! I think it is my last name!

Alicia @ La Famille - you make me want to go to Goodwill. but i never find as cool of things as you do. maybe today’s the day?!?

jen - okay i love that you are smashing plates for mosaics but did you know…that in the top photo with the basket weave around the edge was {and is mine although it’s across the country in storage} my grandmother china pattern and she has the whole set! and in the second photo the plate with the needle point is her tea set – again has the whole thing and it’s my sister’s. i couldn’t imagine smashing that! {although they are NOT my style!} but i know they are probably chipped and worn so go ahead…just know i will be wincing in quebec! ha!

mama lola - that mug could not be more perfect! great find!
and the quilt pillow… genius! old quilts can be hard to salvage as a whole piece, but making something small out of it is fantastic; and what a great way to make something personal as a gift for someone!

tiffany gardner - just wanted to say how much I still love your blog. Yours was the FIRST BLOG i ever read!! And I have to say…. it is still my very favorite. thanks for bringing joy to a life you don’t even know. honest.

Shelly - Frei is my last name. No wonder Friday is my favorite day! 🙂 When we were in Austria for our 10 year anniversary a few years back, we saw our name everywhere. “Free!” 😉

Beth - You always find the BEST stuff when you go thrifting! Why are your stores so much better than the ones around here? haha I very rarely find great stuff. 🙁

shauna - love your pillows!

Terrie G - Can not wait to see your mosaic project. Always wanted to do something like that!
Lots of pretty things to look at tonight!
All of that would make a super Happy Friday!!
You find the best quilts & fabric!!
Happy Painting!

betsy - Meg – I had to tell you this story that happened in my classroom last week. Every month, I decorate for the season or holiday in that month. Each month, I have new decor to hang from the ceiling: leaves, snowflakes, conversation hearts, Chinese lanterns, etc. In August & September, I hung the bunting you made for me a few years ago in the bright fabrics & ribbon. On Friday, I stood up on a stool while my 4th graders were working to take it down (for the 8 foot spider web that went up in it’s place) and my kids all started to whine that I was taking it down. “No! Leave it up! Why are you taking it down??” I told them I loved it, too, but next month’s decorations were awesome, too. They asked if I made the bunting, and I happily said, “Nope, my friend Meg made it for me!”
Thanks again … I love it!

Tiffany - I took German through collage. Funny words in that German language! 🙂

Kristin S - I drive through Kansas every two years on my way to and from Colorado for the summer. Next summer? I’m getting thrift store ideas from you and MUST STOP on my drive. Gracious, we have nothing like these amazing finds at ours.
I went to an auction preview this afternoon for an entire “estate” for a woman who passed away. I had high hopes of a quilt or two. She had some but they weren’t well made enough to last much longer. Though it was really weird to see a person’s entire home contents all organized for auction – down to a half used bottle of B&BW Warm Vanilla Sugar hand soap.

Mommyjulia - LISTENING to you’ve got mail? Oh you are too cute. (I wouldn’t know how to work a new tv either.) and, you are so good at the fabric combo-ing!

Becky K. - Another use for the vintage plates is to give them to a friend with some baked goods on them. Much prettier than a paper plate or rubbermaid container.

Amy K. - eee! That top plate in the first plate photo is the Spode pattern I inherited from my grandma… I do not take use it nearly often enough, so this little reminder was a breath of fresh air!!

Suzanne - I love all the bright, happy colors. glücklich Freitag!

Karen Gerstenberger - Did you ever visit my blog and see my glass- and pottery-topped table? I made it from found beach glass and pottery. I’ve made a bathroom countertop the same way – it’s a joy forever. Your thrift store dishes reminded me. Those projects are a lot of work, but a lot of fun, too – worth it!

rachel - love all your pretties. 🙂 i can never find lovely dishes when thrifting. …boo. happy weekend!

EmilyK - That’s sounds a lot more exciting than the work I’m doing today! 🙂

Lindsey - Lovin’ the tablecloth and also the quilt pillows! That is an incredible idea for old quilts with holes! I am so inspired now!

happygirl - Friday in German is very random. I’m working on Friday, too. Not nearly as pretty as your work. 🙂

Debbie Hargadon - I actually LOVE this idea. I’ve been saving favorite clothes of my kids for years — this would be good — even if it were very random in appearance, the familiarity of it would make it okay. I’m curios as to how large her rectangles were? or how thick the strips.

seriously sassy mama - German in the 8th grade is pretty random!

jerusalem - oh craftiness delight. wish i was working with you at the craft house!

Amy@littleforalittlewhile - love this! I hope to find a sweet little quilt when I come to craft weekend, among other things 😉

Tanya H - My grandmother made quilts like that! Not that pattern, her’s were rows of rectangles, but every rectangle was made of scraps after making clothes, or when the clothes wore out, she’d cut them into rectangles. Every one of her children and grandchildren got at least one- I have three twin size from when I was a kid and one king that was a wedding gift. They’re kinda funny to look at, but they’re all warm and excellent quality. My mom can go thru them and say this was her skirt, this was dad’s pants, on and on. 🙂

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wednesday.

i have not much to say today….but lots of happy things to see. 

Happy2
Happy1
Happy4
Happy3
Happy6
Happy5

it's my birthday week.
so i feel good…happy…ready for a BIG year.
it's going to be.

i am positive.

like everyone else….i am loving the new Mumford & Sons.
so so good.

hey….craig says i never answered the questions you asked last time.
is that true?
i know a lot of you asked me to do a tour of the craft house…but it's hard because we work so hard to get it ready for Craft Weekend and then we run out of time to take a ton of pics or video and then everyone comes for CW and the tour doesn't happen. 
but someday i will do it…i promise.
i will make it worth the wait.  :) 

SO…do you have other questions?  do you have stuff you wish i would blog about but don't?

what would you like to ask…what do you want to know….bring it on.

 

 

Jacci in Ohio - Oooh… style evolving over time. Like that idea! 😀 I think we all kind of go through stages… I noticed that your own style kind of blossomed a few years back when you started taking colorful pictures on purpose to fight winter blues. I’d love to hear your thoughts on your style developing.

Jacci in Ohio - ha ha – I *wondered* when I read that! 😀

amber reece - MEEE too! I need those glasses, where are they from??????

www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1407964423 - How do we find you on Pinterest? I actually think you invented pinterest or should have. Your links and likes are a big reason as to why I follow your blog but not the only reason;) Did I miss the answer to that question? As for your teenager, my daughter is almost 17 and she would freak if I put her in my blog, lol! She freaks if I post pics of her on my FB. It’s a touchy subject and I totally respect that.
love to you and yours! Jen

Amy - Love the pretty pics– so colorful.
Kind of a personal question here: Through other blog posts, I felt led to believe that your first pregnancy was not 100% planned and occurred prior to marriage. Do you talk to your older kids about this topic? Are you a ‘lay it all out on the table’ or a ‘mums the word’ kinda gal when it comes to the risque topics of growing up. What do you teach your own kiddos about it? How do your religious belief tie in or conflict with this happening in your life? How did your own mom and sister react?

Ani G W - I think it would be fun to know some of your kiddos favorite things!

Tammy - Happy Birthday Meg! I love your blog! Someday I hope to be able to put myself on the CW list!
As for questions… everyone has asked such wonderful ones! Some of the ones I like, are the ones for tutorials for the wire words, aprons and the headbands, and the ones about how Lauren is doing.
However, the biggest question listed that I love is, are you planning on posting a tour of the new country home?

elma - Well when you have many kids the older ones get jobs and go to school so they are never home. I have six left at home but only have the three littles ones home with me everyday.

Chelsea - I’d love to hear more about your craft weekends, how you decide what to make, how much you charge, what things you supply, how many ladies attend, how do you get sponsors? all that fun stuff, it sounds like lots of fun (and lots of work)
Happy Birthday!

megan - I’m not surprised at all! I’m sure so many readers can connect with Meg because of what she shares about her kids and family life… Lauren’s definitely got the least blog time, if she doesn’t mind I’d love to hear just a little more about her just like Annie and Talby, especially since college is coming up (I think?)

megan - marion, ks

Siobhan - Im really suprised at all the Lauren questions. Tht is all.

lauren - Happy Birthday Meg. I am a daily visitor and appreciate you so much. Love your candid observations on life and parenting and faith. I have laughed out loud at your thoughts, been inspired by your ideas and prayed for you like a friend. Have a wonderful year and, trust me, from what I see (and I know it’s limited), your kids will grown into amazing adults…..not because you are a perfect parent but because you are an intentional parent. None of us can be perfect, and it’s not easy, but you are a hard worker and a woman of prayer and great faith. He has you (and your kids) covered.

Katy @ Live Laugh Love Craft - I’ve said it before, but I love when you post vlogs. 🙂
Also, I would loooove a ruffled apron tutorial!

Michelle - Hi Meg! Happy birthday. Are you regretting asking us to ask you questions yet? Because you’ve got a lot here!! Thank you for inspiring me to add more color to my life and to do more art with my kids. 🙂 I’ll limit myself to one: what the heck is that delicious looking chocolate peanut butter looking concoction in those pretty, pretty pix?
Thanks!

Christina - Happy Birthday, Meg! We share a birthday week. 🙂 Mine was yesterday. I love your happy pictures…they always make me smile. Always!

Shannon - Happy Birthday! Check out this etsy listing. Saw it and thought “I bet Meg with all the rainbow stuff would LOVE this”. Wishing you a beautiful year of happy days.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/104610906/sale-rainbow-spectrum-big-size-bubble

the whyte house - i just need the inside scoop…did the salvation army by the skating rink move or close permanently? i made a special trip today and it was no more! agh! 🙂
completely not what you were expecting, huh?

Julie - Happy Birthday week!
I recognize so many of those beautiful colorful images from Pinterest! If you had a Pinterest account, it would be awesome!
I’d love to see more of your current home…decorated or not!

Peggy - I want to know two things:
First, do you have a game room in your dining room at the farmhouse?
Second, will you tell me where “the barn” is? Can’t afford to go to CW but I live in Nebraska and it really can not be unreasonable for me to drive there.
Thanks.

misty - HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!! I would LOVE it if you would share a little more about photography. I love every picture you take :)editing.lens.camera bag…. all that fun stuff 🙂

Meredith - Happy Birthday Meg!!! Hope you have a wonderful year. I have a couple of those daisy jars (they were for sour cream back in the day). I would love to get more. Love the images you posted. I really want those light grey polka dot chucks. Would love to see a tour of the craft house. Wish I had a craft house. Wish I could come to your craft house. Okay I am done, have a great day!!!!

Mindy W - Happy Birthday a million times over!! What an absolute blessing you are to me! You find the good. You search for the sunny-side up. Even when it’s not. You don’t cover up life. L-O-V-E that!!!!
Now, if you could pretty please, from the bottom of your birthday heart just link up all your Happy things to look at. Not during birthday week, of course. Party. Celebrate. Work on Monday. 🙂

Zoryana - First of all, Happy Birthday week! I love your blog and have a couple questions. How do you motivate yourself to work out all the time? Also how do you motivate yourself to be so positive and cheerful? I would love a tour of both homes too! What does a typical day look like for you? Do you go to church every Sunday?

Lachalle - Cannot wait to CW in October . But heres a few questions.
Whats in your purse ?? with photos of course .
What do you carry in your camera bag . Gear? Extras?
~L~

Ali - What kind of hair products/make-up do you use? You always look so put together and beautiful!

Sara Torbett - Hi Meg! First, thanks for being you, being real, and such a place of honest inspiration for us gals on the web! I’m wondering how you got from here, to there so to speak with your dreams for Craft Weekend. Like, was it clear which steps to take from Point A to Pont B? God is confirming a few dreams to me over and over lately. I just keep trying to do the next right thing, but not rush His timing!

Heidi - Happy Birthday, Meg! Hope your day or week is as special as you! I love every part of you and your perfectly imperfect beautiful life!
Would love more details of CW weekends and craft tutorials. Of course, keep the George and family post coming.

Amy Petz - *5 posts a week…not a day…I’m not superwoman…

Kathie M. - Do you really have a house dedicated to just Craftweekends?? I would also love to see a tutorial on the headbands you guys make! I love them! 😀

Eva Scott - Happy birthday week! I’d love if you did an Apron tutorial AND a headband tutorial (the one you just did at CW). PLEASE!!!! Oh and please always do CW. I need my kids to be a *bit* older before I can possibly come. 🙂

Elizabeth Malchoff - yes, more about lauren!!!

Marsha P. - I thought of one more. As the Holidays get closer and closer, could you give us stocking stuffer ideas? I have the hardest time coming up with something for my kids, mine are in the teen (boy) and tween (two girls) age groups.

Marsha P. - TV show favorites? Did you watch Downton Abbey? What are your goto beauty products? Do you have a favorite scent for your bath/shower? Are you into candles. Do you have any new favorite clothing stores? What is your favorite Sonic drink?
Does Waffle (love him!) enjoy the country life?
Enjoy your blog, seeing pics of your family, and all of the colorful stuff that you enjoy!

Katie - I would like to hear more about Lauren! And also more about your kid’s daily lives and your family life in general.

Michelle Whitlow - I have a questions – do you have some links to those photos??? Cause I see some yummy treats in there 🙂 Pretty please??!!

Hollie - I’d like to see the bunting on the front of your house. Did you make it out of oilcloth so that it would be weather proof?

Vonda - My question is, up there, in those group of pictures, WHERE was that pile of afghans in the bright colors taken. If you tell me they are all yours, well I am just gonna cry. LOVE THOSE THINGS!!!!

andi k. - i’m wondering how you are in real life? how does that compare to how you are in your blog? just wondering.

Samantha - Just wondering when your oldest child is going to get blog time? She seems like a great kid. She seems to have been forgotten. Just wondering why we never see her on your blog?

roganne - happy birthday! it is my daughter’s 2nd birthday this week too, so september has a special place in my heart. have a great week 🙂

Shara - Happy Birthday Week Meg!!! I feel like I bombarded you with questions during CW, so I don’t have any at the moment! Can’t wait to see all the ones you DO answer!!!

Kerrin - Happy Birthday! My question is this. How did your blog get so popular? I recently started a blog and I would love to reach a larger audience.
Thanks so much for all you do. It makes a difference in my life.

Janelle - Oh dear…thanks for asking…I have too many questions! My first and foremost (because I need some assistance with my four kiddos) is how do you manage all their activities, homework, fun family time, etc. It is SOOO much harder than when they were all little! I’d love to try some more of your recipes..hmmm…How did you become so strong with your faith? I’d love to be but unfortunately at this time am not 🙁

Tinaehb3 - When I saw George Clooney I literally laughed out loud !! Happy birthday:)

Molly - Happy Birthday Meg!
I would like to know how you started taking pics and I am considering a DLSR camera and want to know what is the best type to start out with and what types of lens/ses do you recommend? You might have already coverd this but I missed it.
Also, how do you carve out time for yourself, in the midst of raising 5 kids? I have two and it’s hard sometimes to find time to myself.
Also, can you do a craft post of all the favorite crafts you and your kids have done? (Gearing up for the holiday breaks).
Hope you enjoy your bday week.

Gittygitt1196 - Happy Birthday week to you!
Just wanted to say I LOVE how colorful your posts always are!
I just started a blog…www.homespunstephanie.blogpspot.com and am still getting the hang of it.
Do you have any advice for a blogging newbie!!?
Steph

Molly - I like Linday’s questions……

Jeannine - Happy Birthday Week, Meg! You’re awesome ♥
I was just wondering if you have any advice for new moms? I’m just getting into the whole being-a-mom thing… my daughter is 7 weeks old tomorrow 🙂 and you seem like you’re a fantastic mom! Any words of wisdom would be greatly appreciated, haha.
Oh, and do you have any tips for taking pictures of your children as they grow? Are there any tricks you’ve picked up for taking baby pictures? Does having a good DSLR camera make a HUGE difference? I’m afraid I’ve fallen into the habit of taking 99% of my pictures of my daughter on my phone because that’s what I have most readily available.
Thanks Meg! Hope you have a wonderful birthday 🙂

mommyjulia - i’d like to know more about Lauren! 🙂 but, i get that she’s probably not super cool with that idea! but, does she have post high-school plans? any volleyball scholarships for her? she certainly seems pro in your pictures!
also, what advice would you give to a young mom in regards to the burden/privilege of raising my young ones to choose & follow after Christ? i’m sometimes completely burdened by the responsibility, yet sometimes count it a blessing to show them the way. what are your thoughts?
oh, & one more thing! can you give a top ten books list? i’ve been wanting to read some of the books you’ve been reading lately but i always forget to take note of the titles. could you hook me up with some literature?

Alice H - you should totally sell tutorials in your etsy shop!!!

Alice H - I like these questions too!!

Alice H - WHERE are those glasses from??? I think I need them.
Happpy birthday week! My oldest son will be 12 on the 4th. Growing up too fast. Ugh!
I’d like to know more about your kids, your parenting style and technique. How you discipline? What kind of chores your kids do? Things like that. Are you and Lauren close? I feel like my daughter and I aren’t as close as I’d like to be. Any tips?
I only have 3 kids. A 13 year old daughter Emilee, an almost 12 year old son Zackary, and a 2.5 year old named Colton.

Lisa M. - Wow. There’s alot of questions already posted here 🙂 Good luck!
First, Happy Birthday week!! I hope you (or someone does) have some fun stuff planned!
I have one question…just a curiosity…Do you miss living in the Craft House (when it wasn’t entirely the Craft House:)?
You are my top blog and I wish I lived closer so I could go to Craft Weekend JUST to make one of those aprons!! I don’t sew, but you always say in your posts you can teach people how to sew. That would be awesome!!!!
Thanks for all you share!

Linda - needed this beautiful bit of cheer on my foggy fall day! Your blog always makes my day. Everything you blog about is amazing! I’d love to see the house you living in. Just to see how you’ve decorated it. I love your style!

Kirsten J - Ok. Reading all of these questions is giving me anxiety. How do you do it?
First. Happy birthday week, mine was last week and when I went to Starbucks the other day and used my happy birthday free drink postcard and the guy said “happy birthday” to me, it made my heart happy. My sister and my mom forgot my birthday -wah!
Second. George. *sigh* I have a picture saved on my computer my sister emailed me from when they were filming Ocean’s titled “proof that God exists” with Brad and George sitting by the pool. Tongue in cheek about the proof of God, but really? I replied to her “if that is proof, I should be sitting between them!”
And. Questions? Picturing us sitting at Starbucks yakking….hmmmm….do you make lists? Do you ever ask for help? Do you ever future trip? Will Lauren go away to college? Did you ever have a penpal? Do you ever just veg out in front of the tv? Reality tv? Or talk shows? NCIS? What blogs do you read regularly?

Laura - Happy Birthday, Meg! I was wondering what size the mat and frame for the Urban Outfitters Butterfly poster is.

Desiree - This is so Happy!! I always love visiting your blog because I know there will always be something colorful and amazing and smile-inspiring! Happy birthday-week!! 😀
-Desi @ Matilda Jane Clothing
http://matildajaneclothing.com

Juli - what is the source for the upper right hand picture in the “happy 1” segment? i want to pin it, it’s beautiful! also, i looked for you on pinterest as well???

stephanie - Happy Birthday! I would love to see more pictures of the house you are in now.

Dianne - That picture of George Clooney made me laugh! I think you’re the long lost sister I never had!

Heather - Happy Birthday! Thanks for the beautiful posts every week.

Lindsey - I love all the pictures in this post! Funny that you snuck George in there – tee hee! Happy Birthday! I hope the coming year is an amazing one for you! My questions are the same as many others: how do you do the fabric wrapped letters, are you on Pinterest? You blog is my go-to every. single. day.

Christina - Happy Birthday it is your one day that is meant just for you & only comes once a year. Do something very special & I hope it turns out great. Thank you for your blog & your time.

Jen - HAPPY HAPPY Birthday week! My hubby came home from work one evening with those gray polka dot Chucks for me only my accent color is RED instead of pink! I super LOVE them!

Rachel - How about a ” Day in the life of Megalicious?” :)Or any of your crafty make overs of this that and the other? Or a tour of the farm house? Some new recipes?
Basically we love you no matter what you blog about:)
PS. I hope the “Megalicious” thing isn’t too annoying!

Marla - I used to live in Newton and I love your blog! Now, I live just a little bit south in ICT.:) I am wondering why you and Beki from the Rusted Chain have never mentioned each other or worked together? You are both pretty high profile, nationally known bloggers who seem to live in the same vacinity, and yet, neither of you have ever mentioned the other. I just find it odd that you both love photography and farm life and all things vintage. I don’t know either of you, but it’s something that I’ve been curious about. Enquiring minds…:)

Christina - I would like a more of an about me post. From where you grew up, met your husband where you have lived? Do you plan on staying in Kansas? Did you work prior to having kids. Maybe some more advice on raising teens? I have a 14 & 17 year old. Also my son is thinking about going to Kansas State & I would love to know your favorite things about Kansas

sarah j - merry birthday week!

Krista - Happy Birthday week! Thanks for sneaking a little George eye candy in there for us in all of your colorful loveliness!

Kait - I’m going to echo the request for a tutorial on the fabric wrapped wire words/letters/whatever. I’m not terribly good at craft stuff but I want to give that a go.
I’m also curious about your relationship with Lauren and how she’s doing. I’m assuming she’s not on the blog much because you’re respecting her privacy so if this gets ignored, I totally understand.
And last but not least, how did the idea of Craft Weekend happen and evolve to this level?

Becky J - Meg I would love to hear more about your faith and how it impacts your family and your daily life 🙂 I purchased Jen Hatmaker’s books 7 and Interrupted..WOW..have you finished them and how have you processed all that they are? I think she is spot on- which means I need to do some soul-searching and changing!! Have you read Francis Chan’s Crazy Love? Blessings…

Hollie - Happy Birthday! I would love a tutorial on the fabric wrapped letters. I’ve looked around and yours are the cutest by far! Also, how about a CW apron tutorial? or could you sell a tutorial in your Etsy shop? Would love to start making a few for Christmas 🙂

sara m. - I’d like to know what denomination your family is. I know a lot of craft bloggers are Mormon, but you say a lot of things on your blog that lead me to think that you believe something closer to my own beliefs (I am not Mormon).
Just wondering :o)

Tiffany - Hey there, wishing you a very Happy Birthday – from the East Coast!

Hollie - Happy Birthday! Could you give us a tutorial on your fabric wrapped wire letters? I’ve looked online but none are as cute as yours. How about a CW Apron tutorial? or could you sell your pattern in your Etsy shop?
Thank you for your daily inspiration…you help in ways you don’t even know.

Alisa - I want to know what the country house looks like inside and how you manage both!

Molly - here is my question…..i too am a “cardi-girl”. I love me some cardigans. however i am not quite sure how to keep them clean. ya know how often should i wash them, hand wash vs. machine, line dry or dryer. what are your thoughts….any suggestions 🙂

Kelly - Those polka-dot Converse have been on my wish list for so long! So cute!

Andrea - This is my “go to every day never fail” blog. You are so inspiring as a mom, as a child of God, as a crafter!
I encourage any recipes – I have made many you’ve shared in the past, including the cookies and Pam’s cheesecake (which should be illegal).
My question: are you still crafting for your Etsy shop? I could understand, with the CW business, if you’re not, but if you are I want to be ready to shop/spend when it opens!

Liesl - George Clooney is a very happy thing to look at–love how you had in amongst all the other beauty!
Happy Birthday!!

Katie N. - Happy Birthday Week!!! I love you blog – it always brightly colors my day! May you have a blessed week and year!

robin allen - George just makes my day…as does George STrait, Bon Jovi, Patrick Swayze, Love LOVE your style, color, talent, energy, honesty, Photos, the fact that you love Kansas…SO DO I!!!…my question…do you have a job appl… I want to work at craft weekend…tee hee…

happygirl - Happy Birthday. 🙂

Jo - Hi, Meg. Happy birthday (week)! I would love to know more about your wardrobe. Maybe some outfit posts or where you like to shop. How young will you be this week? 😉

Su@TheIntentionalHome - You are my all time favorite blog (really!!!). . .cause I love your use of color and your pictures. . .it is just pure inspiration. It is like flipping thru a magazine for me. I’d love to see more pictures of the details of your house. .either house. . .your pictures make me smile. Happy. I get excited when your blog posts are in my email box. I also like when you share some of your favorite bloggers, etsy shops, etc. And then I would like to know a typical week schedule for you. . .do you set aside a whole day to craft? Do you do clean on a certain day? Do you grocery shop on a certain day?. . .I guess how you handle crafting, your business/blog, managing the home and 5 kiddos, and taking time to nurture yourself emotionally, physically, mentally, etc. Happy Bday!

CathyC - Happy Happy Birthday Meg!!!!!

donna - thanks for including that picture of George – drool drool.

Su@TheIntentionalHome - I want to know that too. . I tried looking for you and could not find you.

Allyson - that was my question too! 🙂
so cheery. so positive. the images and you!

Su@TheIntentionalHome - Oh I agree with that statement. . .parenting teenagers (I have a 15, 13, and 12 yr old) aer harder than when they were into everything toddlers. You are not alone.

W. - Happy birthday week!

Gemma - Did you ever convert the attic in the craft house? Also out of the two houses which do you prefer to live in?
Gemma x

Denise - I would like to know the name of the chicken fabric from Craft Weekend 3. Thanks for letting us see inside your life.

Amy Petz - Hi Meg! I am wondering how you keep yourself motivated. How do you fight the burnout? Also, how do you balance private/public? And finally how do you deal with haters/doubters.
I ask these questions because, I was posting an average of 5 posts a day on my blog for over a year and then I just couldn’t motivate myself to do it at all this September. Someone very close to me said they just don’t “get” why I would want to share so much of my life with strangers and I was stumped for an answer that satisfied him and that lead me to wondering if I was just being narcissistic, which lead to more over processing, which sucked the will right out of me. I hope to start back up again, but it’s hard to stay motivated when there are so many amazing, informative and beautiful blogs already out there.

Lindsay - brace yourself, i have too many questions…
yes i would like to know if we can follow you on pinterest?
and i would like to know more of what you were like when you were a mom to just one or two…were you a typical first time mom (stressed out by little things (like me)) or have you always been laid back?
did you always make time for crafts or have you eased into that?
have you always loved color and been bold with your fun choices or did it take you a long time/a lot of trial and error to figure out your style?
and of course everyone wants to know about the farm house 🙂 both houses are amazing, what a sweet life!

sue - Hi Susan. i was wondering the same thing but if you times the number of people to the amount meg charges for craft weekend once a month I would think thats how she can afford both.

robin - i would love, love, LOVE for you (or Annie…or any of your kids) to sing that birthday song that is sung at one of your kids’ schools…. 🙂 on your birthday the angels sang…or something like that…. 🙂 please share…………. 🙂 record it…post it…i wanna hear it, please 🙂 pretty please…
i also would love to know more about your oldest daughter… i know she’s a teenager and probably doesn’t want to be “featured,” but i would love to know more about her… 🙂 i feel like your other kiddos are featured a lot and you can tell a lot about their personality from your pics… 🙂 Lauren, however, remains to be a lil mystery 🙂

sue - Which is your favorite camera lens and why ?

Jessica - I would love to know about how your marriage has been through the years with kids and also what you do to keep it awesome, particularly in the baby/toddler years. Also, more about your relationship with Lauren. And the move/2 houses like everyone else.

midwestmom - How many are on “the list” that’s a great question. How do you handle your kids grades? Reward good grades? Punishment for bad grades? Today midterms came out and there was a D. (for my freshman) I got too mad and feel guilty now. I threatened taking everything under the sun away. While the D is bad, it’s not world ending. (other grades were As and Bs). I swear parenting 10 & 14 yr olds is harder than when they were babies and crazy toddlers!!!

Susan - I will go ahead and ask what everyone has been wondering…how do you afford 2 houses?

Janine - Happy Birthday! I love your blog 🙂 We share the same birthday and I am not feeling so optimistic about it this year. I am having a tough time with this one. Definitely not feeling it. Please send some of that positive energy my way!

Susan - like many others, I was shocked at the move to the “country house”. I will just ask what everyone else wants to…..how do you afford to keep two houses? oh, and have you considered posting recipes for the meals served at craft weekend?
susan

beth - i need to know where the glasses with the flowers come from. i need them in my home.

Amanda - Happy, happy birthday week! Can you do a little tutorial of how you made those lovely fabric-covered wire words, pretty please? Thanks so much sharing your world with us, whether it be a sweet little chippy paint treasure from The Barn or a tough mothering moment. You are special!

Jessica @ This Blessed Life - I’d love to know that, too, please! Those would be a perfect Christmas gift for my best friend! 🙂

maggie - i, like everyone before, love reading your blog. i love all the color that you infuse in your pictures. it has made me want to use more color in my home. i would love to know more about your move to the farm and your decision to make your amazing home into the Craft home….what was your reasoning??? just curious, i think it is awesome and brave…

Libby Smith - Hi, you are so inspiring! Thank you for all you share. You are a true gift. You once blogged about your manual settings on your camera for indoor, evening photos…can’t find it???? Also, just curious in general about what settings you use for much of your photography in various settings. Thank you and Happy Birthday!

Jen - I would love to know how you decided to move and keep the CW house just for CW?? That’s amazing to me! What a blessing to be able to have a whole house, a TOTALLY COOL house, to use just for CW!!!
I think my kids would revolt if we left such a big house and moved to something smaller. How did your kids react? Although the farm life seems to suit you all just beautifully! 🙂

Andrea - Happy bday week! Judy love reading your blog!!
I’d love for you to share more about being a young mom and how you and mr. d made it through. Statistics show otherwise you seem like you have a strong healthy marriage!! I’m so intrigued with young moms as a teacher of high school kids, many of whom have gotten pregnant.

Gwen - WHERE?!?!? Did you find those flowered glasses at the top, under the photo of the red door? They are wonderful!
I am also very interested in what you to do edit your photos. What software do you use? What is your system for processing through so many photos?
Have a very Happy Birthday!

Chrissie grace - These pictures make me smile:)
Happy birthday friend!

Nicole Gjeldum - Have a great birthday! Mumford & Sons are just divine! Thanks for sharing the great pics of color and happiness!

Valerie @ Chateau Ala Mode - Happy birthday to one of my very favorite bloggers! I love your blog so much and it never disappoints. You rock the blog! I wish you a very happy birthday. Hope it’s happy. I love the smiling quote from Elf…such a funny movie. It always makes me laugh. I would love to have you blog about any decorating you can. Your new home, the craft house or whatever…HA that’s your blog. Sorry, now I’m getting slap happy. I better go now!

mollie's mom - Happy Birthday!!! It’s MY birthday week, too 🙂 Enjoy your day and week!!! Marcie

colleen sullivan - I, for one, I am more interested in pics of the house you live in currently!
Also, i’m sure you’ve heard this before but your “spirit” is truly inspiring! and it feels very real and not faked.. so you are special! Happy Birthday!

KirstenP - Hey, Meg, you mentioned that you have to edit photos after a photo shoot. Could you tell us (or maybe show us in a video) what is involved in editing photos? Thank you.

Jennifer - I’d love to see some how you decorated your old house in Chicago… see how your style has evolved over time…
And, I’d love to know your beauty routine.

Lee Ann - Will you please come to Washington? It’s beautiful here and we can go for a run. Probably in the rain. But we runners have a chant we say before heading out in the rain, “once you’re wet you’re wet.” We repeat it over and over. And it’s true. So will you come? 🙂 Michelle Allen will run with us. I know you love her. Cuz how could you not?

Chavala - Last Craft weekend there was a pic from your trip to the barn and it had an awesome rabbit head on a plaque. Could you tell me how much it was and if its still there. My sister would LOVE it!

jenny - How many are on the “list” for craft weekend???

elma - I would love seeing more pictures of your vintage goodness and your decorating!!!

jen - Meg-are you on Pinterest?????

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friday of CW

we were so far ahead in our prep for craft weekend that friday was pracitcally relaxed!
slow paced and really enjoyable.

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michelle from close2myart is here this month and leading a project today.
she made our chalkboard look amazing!!

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i made myself a NEW apron this month!  
rainbows and polka dots….YAY!!

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we hung some new artwork in a few bedrooms.
this big print is from urban outfitters…mounted onto fabric….frame from michaels…that i spray painted yellow.

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katie daisy.  :)

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we brought in the yellow cabinet i scored at the barn last month at CW.
it is so sweet.
it even has a little lock on the inside…it was made well!
and clearly well loved.

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a new fall favorite on the snack table….mmmm.

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pam garrison's print are lovely in the swag.

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everything set up and ready for 12 new friends to come.

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they were working hard!
such confident crafters….i love that.

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these two girls work together in a flower shop in canada.
they were the first ones done with their ruffle aprons.
LOVE their fabric choices!

ok….everyone is downstairs for breakfast.
i hear that a group of girls was going running this morning.
my body hurts just thinking about that.
but good for them!!
i need some coffee….and i am ready to hit the barn!

happy saturday!

 

Katie - You are killing me with all of these Craft Weekend photos! I think it may be time for me to price flights from Nova Scotia 🙂

Amber - It’s a good thing I didn’t know you were having Craft Weekend this weekend. I drove by Marion on my way to Wichita and it would have taken more self control than I have to keep myself from stalking Bearly Makin’ It in hopes of running into you. 🙂

Shara - Hey Rachel!!!!!

april - Oh man that looks like so much fun! What a wonderful craft space you have created Meg! xoxo

Martha - What fun! All the pictures are beyond beautiful! All those fabric choices – WOW! A crafter’s dream. 🙂

Robyn Farmer - Another Robyn with a “y”!

elma - OH I love CW pictures!! Take loads of pictures!! I still want a polka dot ruffle apron:) Are they hard to make???

Becki - I love to lok at these posts and soak in all of the colors and beautiful gorgeousness! Thank you for sharing!

Lisa - For the first time in 11.5 yrs of parenting I did a planned craft with my 4 kids. I am so not creative or crafty but my oldest really wanted too. It actually went really well and they had lots of fun. You’ve inspired me! (Although it may be another 11.5 yrs before I do another one! haha!)

Michelle From Australia - Canadians? Are they your first international crafters? I had always secretly hoped the first international crafter (who can’t sew!) would be mine 🙂

kathy - EVERYTHING is so gorgeous! Wonder, could I ask you about your quilts? Where do you find them & how do you clean/wash & dry them when needed. I have a couple that are older and not so sturdy and I’m kind of afraid to toss them in the washer/dryer. In my dreams my house would look like the Craft house! Such a happy place!

Wendy - I love the candy corn and peanuts!! It tastes just like Butterfingers! 🙂

Tiffany - Eekkk! Each CW post makes me even more excited for my turn in November!

elma - OH I just love the CW weekend and all the pictures!! Can’t wait to see more pictures!!!!

Rachel Spin - My friend Shara is there with you all! Hi Shara! I hope you are having a fabulous time!

April R - inspired! 🙂
I think I have a can of yellow spray paint in the garage… 😉
(prayin’ y’all have an beautiful time!)

Kristin S - I love your Craft Weekend posts!
That house continues to be amazing.
Praying for you ALL.

Christy K - Looks like you girls are having a fantastic time already (how could you not? I mean, really)! Keep the craft house pictures coming… love all of the new details! That yellow cabinet? Swoon city. Enjoy the rest of the weekend! 🙂

Lisa - Your house always looks sooo dreamy for Craft Weekend, it’s my happy place to look at the pictures 🙂 Love your apron, such great fabrics, in two of my favorite patterns, polka dots and rainbows…LOVE! Have fun!

Tiffany - Luck favors the prepared. Have fun, I’m off to check out what Urban Outfitters has to offer, HOLLA!

KirstenP - I always love to see the riot of colors from Craft Weekend. The child’s xylophone is a sweet addition to the ‘You Are Beautiful’ print and colorful daisy bouquet. Did anyone play a good morning tune on it?
BTW, cashews go really well with candy corn!

roganne - love the yellow side table!! it is totally adorable and the perfect shade of cheery yellow 🙂

Lorraine R. - So I’ve been following you for a short time and love LOVE the craft weekends! I’m trying to figure out how it all works……the craft house is seperate from your house right? It’s so cute!!! I love the bedrooms and especially the sweet cabinet/dressers in between the beds <3 So perfect!!!!

melodee@polkadotnotebook - oh how fun! I love your craft weekend pix! I love love love the pennants and bubble lights strewn across the room:)

Eugenia - This must be what heaven looks like…

Linda - Looks so happy and beautiful. I want to surround myself with that! Love it All. Happy craft weekend!

Lanny Lou - So jealous but so happy for y’all have fun ladies !

Kimberly - “thou shall not covet”.
please tell me that doesn’t apply to thy southern neighbor’s amazing craft weekends.

Sarah{Handbags*N*Pigtails} - I never get sick of seeing the Craft House…and all the swag!:) Hoping this weekend is even better than all the previous ones. Sounds like it will be since you were well prepared to begin with. Have fun girls!

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more.

i know these look like the same pictures of that sunflower patch i posted about in july….but they are different.
i promise.
i went back a week later with no kids, my cowboy boots and my camera. 

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i was so happy out there clickin' away on an overcast morning with no one asking me "how much longer mom?"
"can we go now?"
"are you almost finished?"
i just clicked and clicked and clicked until i decided i was done.
that is an awesome feeling.

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this time they were ALL open and smiling at the sun.

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spider playing hide-and-seek at the bottom…
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i love the water droplets and pollen all over the leaves.  :)

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this one just needed another hour probably and all its petals would be open.

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that was the whole patch.
not a field but just enough and all about 5 feet tall.  
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and this one is my most favorite.
i love it.

i think i should just become a flower farmer.
i could just grow fields of flowers and take pictures all day long.
zinnias, black eyed susans, coneflowers, daisies and of course sunflowers.
wouldn't that be a completely dreamy job?

what do you dream about becoming?

just share…it's safe here.  :) 

 

Jen H. - Hi Meg,
You have probably answered this question a bazillion and one times, but can you please tell me the type of camera you use? What is your favorite, everyday-type lens?
Because I dream of being a photographer! 🙂
Thanks so much!
Love,
Jen Honeycutt
Littleton, CO
jmcutt4@gmail.com

Tiffany - Ice cream taste-tester. 🙂

Heather R. - Bee one=my favorite! 🙂

April R - we lived in Europe for a short time and they had flower fields with a little stand or post with a box and you could pick them and then put some money in the box. honor system. It is a little sad that I’m still like, really? they just trust people? wow…
Kat’s reply made me think of Peter Pan. It’s longish but I love it.
[Mrs. Darling speaking quietly with Wendy, John, and Michael just before putting them to bed and going out with Mr. Darling to an important business party…]
Mrs. Darling: Your Father is a brave man, but he will need a special kiss before he can face his colleagues tonight.
John: Father? Brave?
Mrs. Darling: There are different kinds of bravery, John. There is the bravery of a thinking of others before oneself. Your father has never brandished a sword or fired a pistol – thank heavens – but he has made many sacrifices for his family and put away many dreams.
Michael: Where did he put them?
Mrs. Darling: (with a smile) He put them in a drawer. And sometimes late at night we take them out and admire them.
Michael: Are they pretty?
Mrs. Darling: Oh, yes. A put-away dream grows prettier every day. So pretty, it is harder and harder to close the drawer. But he does. And that is why he is brave.

karen gerstenberger - I would love to help those in the medical field by sharing what I’ve learned as the mother of a patient, so that they can empathize (without getting hurt) as they care for families. I would love to do more writing on all kinds of topics, and help others who have been through catastrophes to have hope; would love to grow in faith and service. I guess my dream job is writer/artist, and I am doing it part-time now…but it would help A LOT to get paid for it!
Also want to let you know that you inspired me to get some spray paint and get started! Thank you, Meg. Check out the table – it’s nearly done: http://www.karengberger.blogspot.com/2012/09/goodbye-august-hello-september.html

lisa - That last picture is amazing! Wow.
I dream of owning a stationery/paper store. Stationery, notecards, notepads…I love it and can’t have enough!

Dani - Beautiful! I saw a sunflower field this weekend and begged my husband to stop so I could take pictures. But, we were right in the last parts of the hurricane.
What do I want to be? I want to be a psychologist for the hearing impaired. Sounds strange? Yes, but I’m sure they need to have their thoughts heard too!
Maybe someday, I will do this!!

Rachel - All lovely photos but that last one is just excellent!

Angela A - You need to print some of those pics to sell when you open your Etsy shop. Please.
I am still working on my dreams–just now getting to where I can mentally do that. My right now dream is to keep working part time to have time to make quilts and other stuff and just to have space in my days so I’m a better mom and wife.

Natasha - I dream about running a bar in Key West that opens onto the sand and faces the sea. Some haunt that the locals hang out in, where I can live in flipflops and serve beer.

jenni@talkinghairdryer - I love the barn in this patch. It really adds to the character. Great pics!

Clare Heuer - Oh.my.goodness…absolutely LOVE the sunflowers!! They are my favorite flower and you just have to be happy around them!!
The real reason for my message is that I saw a quick preview for PARENTHOOD last night and it’s back on Sept. 11. I love, love, love that show and I know you do too. Tuesday nights just haven’t been the same lately without the Braverman family. 🙂
Blessings – Clare

jen - dreams are so amazing aren’t they? i have tucked my dreams away in a drawer and peek at them sometimes but know they are not possible for me right now. they include running a farm, being a photographer, learning graphic design, honing my sewing skills and opening my party/wedding planning business. those are mine. i hold them close.

Jen - Gorgeous, happy pictures! Thank you, Meg.
When I grow up, I’m either going to be one of Janet Jackson’s back-up dancers or Pink.

Su@TheIntentionalHome - love reading your readers’ dreams. . .makes me smile. Mine. . to speak at women’s conferences, retreats, etc on following God with reckless abandon. I feel alive. . I feel God’s pleasure when I speak. I’d also like to run parenting workshops, speak on parenting. . encourage young mothers. Your blog makes me smile. . .

Courtney - This flower farm is about an hour down the road from me, and it’s AMAZING http://www.wildseedfarms.com/
Funny you should ask about a dream job, my husband and I have been talking about it lately too – big crazy audacious goals if you had no restrictions what would you do type things.
I want to start a ministry and write a book for women and families dealing with pregnancy loss
I want to run a children’s ranch for anyone who needs a place to live and be loved
I want to be a farmer and run a CSA
I want to own and run a bed and breakfast
In the mean time I just want to work hard at whatever God tells me to.

Kat - I wish I knew what my dream was.
ten years at home with four gorgeous kids and the baby starts part time school next year, which I am partly dreading. sigh.
Maybe then I will rediscover what my dream is.
It was to be a Mum to four and that happened, so now I need a new dream…

Audrey - the sunflowers are gorgeous 🙂 I dream of owning my own bakery

Kate - I dream of opening a home photography studio…. specializing in kiddos. I dream of recording a CD one day. I dream of teaching other women how to start a photography business. I dream of adoption and wonder if God has that in store for me.

Flower Patch Farmgirl - Have you ever heard of those farms of U-Pick flowers??? I have read about them… It’s my dream to show up at a place like that with shears and some Mason jars. Give me zinnias or give me death.
I know I didn’t answer your question, but this seemed more pressing.

Amber - Have you ever read Harvey potter’s balloon farm to your kids? It just all of a sudden made me think of you when you mentioned being a flower farmer (which does sound dreamy:)…).
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0688158455/ref=mp_s_a_1?qid=1346815084&sr=8-1
It’s a fun book & a little odd…but my daughter loves the pictures:). And I think you might too…

Nicole - …a wife, mama, and published writer. 🙂

Katie Beth - These are gorgeous. Hard to pick a favorite, but the last one is fun! I hope you print I sent arrived safely…if not, please let me know!

happygirl - I would love to learn how to take pictures and add them to my blog. Or, I’d like to learn how to be a wonderful cook and make wonderful food. A girl can dream. Oh yeah, and move to Daytona Beach, FL or SD, CA. 🙂

Amanda Kay - Meg! I found your dream school (would have emailed but it wasn’t working with my computer). http://www.veetje.be/kleur-op-school/
You’re so great and I LOVE the sunflower photo with the little honeybee! Makes my heart sing!

Amy Lynne - Ha! Love it!! 🙂

Amy Lynne - I would love to have my own fabric shop and be able to create all day long! I guess that is what I do on my summers off, minus owning the fabric shop 😉

Stephanie - A lottery winner.

Tracy Fisher - ps… i dream of living on the water one day and having a little art studio next to my home. tracy

Tracy Fisher - I think you should make a copy of one of those photos and put a bible verse in the center of the flowers. Just thinking. And would love one. 🙂 tracy

Amanda - I’ve always wanted to be a kindergarten teacher. Or host my own craft weekends.:-)

Tanya - a writer…and own a bakery.
I believe both will happen 🙂
lovely pics ~ I’d be running from the bees 😉

Valerie @ Chateau a La Mode - I wish I could design wedding dresses. Wouldn’t that be a romantic job? I would love that. Loving your sunny sunflowers!

the domestic fringe - Gorgeous, gorgeous photos! I love sunflowers.
~FringeGirl
thedomesticfringe.com

Tina I - I always dreamt of being a stay-at-home mom….some dreams do come true:-) My next dream is to find an old house, fix it up without killing its charm and sell it, then find another and another and another…..

Liesl - I dream of fields and fields of sunflowers like you have! They are hard to come by in Northern New Jersey! I just satisfy my desire to take pictures of sunflowers by heading to my sister’s patch of 6 🙂

Jessica - I dream of seeing those sunflowers in person!!

Jenny Joy - I love those photos. Sunflowers are my favorite… by a mile.
I want to become a professional cake decorator. The kind that has worker bees to actually BAKE the cake (it takes forever, and isn’t really my forte.) But I would spend most of my waking moments decorating. Fondant and gum paste and buttercream, OH MY! Cakes that fool the eye. Cakes that make people squeal. Cakes that people don’t want to cut into because they are just too darn pretty. It’s a nice thought. 🙂

sandee prince - a hip hop dancer. no joke.
gorgeous pics Meg.

Lisa - I particularly love the fifth picture from the top.
I dream about being a photographer. 🙂

amy cornwell - I love the sunflowers…I’d love to have a whole backyard full of flowers like you said: sunflowers, purple cone flowers, lavender, zinnias…all of the pretty ones to photograph. They’d call me the crazy flower lady, but I wouldn’t care. Love your shots, they brighten the day!

Sarah{Handbags*N*Pigtails} - I love that last one too…b/c hubby is a beekeeper on the side. Most people hate “bees”(they classify all kinds under one title)but our honeybees are pretty darned amazing and the honey is a really good natural combatant for allergies and such.

Alicia @ La Famille - i think a new fall header is in order with one of these babies!

Erica Haude - Where is this?!?! I really want to take Christmas pictures in sunflowers, as we just moved back to Kansas. I live close to you…so, if you could kindly point me in the direction of some sunflowers, I’d be much obliged to ya 🙂
oh, and I dream of being an Equine Therapist for abused children.

Molly - Owning my own jewelry business. You should sell these on Etsy. Love sunflowers. I’d love to grow them but don’t really have a place for them. Trying to see if I could grow them in my backyard somewhere.

Tiffany - Dreams…I’ve always dreamed of owning my own business. And I’m all over dat. Hellooo etsy. P.S. I saw a sunflower calendar at bn a week or so ago and thought of your blog, whatever!

Tracy - Gorgeous photos as always, Meg. The last one is awesome!! Thanks for sharing! 🙂

stephany - I would grow the exact same flowers…

Lisa M. - Beautiful pictures, thank you! Sadly, no dreams. Isn’t that horrible? I’m a wife, mom, and I stay at home running a business. Life is busy and it just seems hard to dream sometimes, ya know? Being a wife and mother are two of the most gratifying things I have ever done in my life, but the business end of life isn’t something I’d choose to do again (the actual business I’m in, not actually being in business for myself. That part of it is great and has allowed me to be home with my son. Something I thank God for.). But it’s where I’m at now and just pray that God will help me through it and that I will eventually discover His will. I know He puts each one of us on this earth with special gifts and a plan for our lives and I’m hoping to discover what that is. I know He has something great planned and I know He will reveal it to me when the time is right. Anyhow, enough of that. I have an awesome life and a wonderful family. God has already blessed me in countless ways!

Maria - Simply beautiful photos! Would love to take a road trip to Kansas for the blooming sunflowers!
when I grow up I would love to be a photographer and fiber artist….

Terrie G - I wasn’t able to get super pics of sunflowers this summer. The field just didn’t cooperate. Not enough rain… 🙁
I’m with you! I would come and take pics of flowers in your fields all day long.
I’ve been blessed to live the best dream of my life…momma and now grandma.
But, a year ago…I knew I needed something else.
My dream is to learn photography…
And I’ve had so much fun learning all facets the past year.
I have a lot to learn…but it’s why I took it up.
There will always be something new to learn and
never a shortage of pictures to take!
Thanks for all your pics…you always inspire me!!

Beth McClintock - Love this post and I actually borrowed a picture and made it my screen saver on my phone 🙂

Southern Gal - Lovely shots. The last is my favorite, too.
My dream is to grow in my photography. I’d like to take some courses to help me get there. I want to take beautiful portraits of my children and granddaughters just for me and my family.

Lori H - Secretly I would love to be a photographer, but as I don’t even own a working camera at the moment (point and shoot died) that isn’t really possible. Also want to be a reading tutor for elementary kids. Reading is soooo important!!

Paula S. - Good for you for going back without the kids! I would love to be a stay at home mom most of all. A bonus would be to have time for a flower garden, money to redo my house and the chance to do small photography jobs from time to time.

Stacy - Current dream is to work, and be paid, to do curriculum development. Specifically, arts for children’s education & camp. Performing arts, visual arts – including wicked projects. I feel like I’ve been working towards this place for a few years. I’m good at it. Now, to find employment in this area that will still allow me to pick my kiddo up when school is over and to stay home with her during school breaks. So, big dream with those requirements….Thanks for the safe place to dream.

elma - Love these pictures!!!

Janelle - I dream of becoming a professional newborn baby rocker 😉

amy jupin - i am so glad i clicked over just as you were posting these.
(in my mind anyways, no scheduling posts!)
i just wrote about owning a shop, a little piece of beauty, with a striped awning and big flower boxes and vintage goodies stacked tall, chippy hutches and pretty candles and, and, and…
it’s all there.
my dream.
and you can come take pictures of it for me!
and kimberlee will bring cinnamon rolls and we’ll have lovely lattes and oh my, it will be wonderful!
🙂
so happy to have this dream.

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still life.

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first things first.

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drop off and pick up and drop up and pick up at swimteam.


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our first tomatoes.

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the art table.

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The Daily Message (by Eugene Peterson)

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watering our garden….coming along decently.

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breakfast.

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soon to be cucumbers.

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turquoise bird dish from my great aunt.

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everyday.

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annie's softball game in 100 degrees.
she poured water on herself….and also she hit the ball hard!

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weeds in the sunset.

so….this summer has been redonk.
i have yet to have one day where i felt like i was truly "enjoying summer" 
i have felt like i just go from one thing to the next.
pick up from a practice.
drop off.
pick up.
go here.
run there.
we never even made a summer list because there has not been TIME!!!
that is the opposite of the meaning of the summer list. 

i am ready for july.
i want to be past all these camps, sports and activities and just RELAX with my kids.
make crafts.  try new recipes.  turn off the the darn TV!!! 

july is going to be for relaxing.
slowing down.
enjoying my time with my kids.
and i am going to try to become a morning person and run earrrrrly.

YAY july.
maybe we'll make a july list.

🙂

Honeybee Mama - i have been feeling the same thing! we never made a summer wish list and i was thinking this morning that it’s never too late to do so. we might just do that this afternoon. we have to catch the moments in the midst of craziness!

Sarah @This Farm Family's Life - It’s the opposite here. June was the slow month for us and july is busy!

sandy toe - I love your family picture!! So cute!
sandy toe

Jenni - Oh, I feel for you! Our summer so far has been crazy too, and like you I am looking forward to July! I hope you have a very restful, beautiful summer, with plenty of time for crafts! 🙂
Have a wonderful {hopefully more relaxed} Monday! 🙂
Blessings,
Jenni

Heidi Jo the Artist - I don’t know how you guys do it. Run here, run there… Do the kids really enjoy all those activities, or would they rather spend the day with you? To each their own–I understand. Hope you get the downtime you are craving!
Beautiful turquoise bird dish! What a amazing piece to remember your great aunt’s life.
Love your garden btw. I don’t have as much as I would like in ours, but it is better than last year, so that is a start. 😉
Hope you are having a wonderful weekend!

Amy Lynne - We’re in the same boat…now all the planned/scheduled things are behind us, it’s time to chill and enjoy our summer! Here’s to a great July!

Erin - I feel the same way!

Johanna - Exactly!!! I am craving that down time to just BE… and I am going to try and become a morning person and run early with you too!!! In spirit anyway:) Love the little bird thing from your great aunt and I love seeing the finished product of your family pics that I read about a ways back… Love-love-love it:) What a gorgeous bunch! Thank you for writing your blog, I so look forward to reading it<3

denise@victory rd. - the daily message by peterson here, too. psalm 91 really messed with me this week. it’s good to be messed with.
my summer fun list hasn’t made it anywhere official. it’s in my pleated poppy covered notebook, where the kids can’t see it and where i can’t feel guilty for not checking many things off already.

Flower Patch Farmgirl - Oh dear. I just said a collective prayer for the both of us when I saw that pic of the dishes drying on the counter. If you need pointers on how to build the very best dish tower, hit me up. I’m the reigning Queen.
ps – It’s possible to just “become” a morning person? That doesn’t sound right…

Tracy Fisher - I hear ya sister! Last night I sat in the rain and watched my son’s baseball practice. I didn’t have to be there. My husband showed up to help out. But I stayed. Not normally me. Ususally rushing off to the next thing. But I turned to the only other mom there and smiled. We laughed at ourselves in flip flops in the rain with dust everywhere. It felt good! Enjoy your July!!!!

AmyM - Thanks for writing this. I have been feeling this too. Our summer is busy and full of fun stuff, but not much sitting around relaxing time yet. I so love the huge canvas of your family on your mantle. How large is it? Love your blog as always! We made the corn salad from Craft Weekend and everyone loved it! Thanks for sharing! Maybe we’ll make a “Before School Hits in the Fall” list. 🙂 Happy 4th!

Renee - Our June has been the EXACT same way. I’m a teacher and I start in a new district August 1… Guess that leaves me in the same place… July is for relaxing 🙂 Happy relaxing to you!

Valerie @ Chateau A La Mode - I thought you did make your summer list, but I guess that was last year’s…see where my mind is? Life is going so fast I thought you already made one…HA! Enjoy your July and P.S. it starts tomorrow 😉

plumbing - Its a very good practice for your kids to have some time to enjoy the beauty of nature as well as letting them know how to take care of nature. Such a very great article.

Vanessa - Love your real life! Keep the good work!

Kat - Just to give you some perspective, it is winter here in Tasmania, Australia and cold.
I was just thinking how I feel in a bit of a winter rut, so soak up that sun and enjoy it, even the busy days.
Before you know it winter will have come round again 😉
I absolutely love your family pic with all the heads together and the realness of your kitchen sink pic.
Sometimes every day is so much easier than showy show homes. Well that is my excuse and I am sticking to it!! 🙂

Kelly - I am so, so glad that we are not the only ones who feel like we haven’t settled into summer yet. June has been hectic! Kelly

Alicia @ La Famille - i am soooo ready for summer to slow down, like right now! it’s been going way too fast and i don’t see it slowing down anytime soon. i guess i’ll make the most of the days that we don’t have anything going on 🙂

Stephanie - Love your blog and photos! Wondering if you know what happened to your blog friend “pieceofcake” Laura? Can’t access her blog anymore….

julia - My summer starts Monday. No more stupid college class for the high schooler. No more volunteering. No more theater camp. DONE!!!

Cori - Such beautiful photos. You make me want to come and join your family. If there’s one extra at your table, just pass me the blueberries and I’ll be happy!

Kristin S - Meg, always my fave posts. Every day normal.
And, while I’m sure she hates to be on the blog since she’s a teenager, it is fun to see your oldest daughter in a pic.

lisa - Beautiful pics! What a sweet little dish from your aunt, too. How special.
So how are the watercolors from Target? Are they as good as crayola? I was going to pick some up but didn’t know if they were cheapies.

mae - Beautiful pictures!! Once July hits and life slows down a bit, you might like this craft my friend did… It’s “Ice Painting” I think you’d like it. Perfect for summer! Here’s the link to her craft: http://buttonsbirdsandbs.blogspot.com/2012/06/hot-days-cool-art.html
Love the photos of the garden!!! Your tomatoes look a LOT better than mine 🙂

Maria - I’m ready for July! Swim team will be winding down…scout camps over…just vbs in early July, then we’ll have about 2 weeks of absolutely nothing. Cannot wait.
Then school.
bleck.

Linda - Love the glimpses of you real life. It makes mine seem more normal! I hope it slows down for you!

SoCalLynn - I agree, my family hasn’t done anything FUN yet this summer. My daughter is in summer theater. I have to drive 30 minutes each way 3x a week/ twice a day because I am not staying around there for 5 hours. Money is tight this summer so we haven’t done much at all. Theater ends at the end of July with 4 performances, so I guess we’ll squeeze in some beach and fun days then?

Jenna@CallHerHappy - I loooove that pic of your family on the mantle. It is so happy 🙂 Also, I am in love with the determination in Annie’s face on the diamond. Way to go, Annie!

Kerstie Pederson - B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L bird dish from your aunt.

Heather - Love that sweet turquoise bird from your great aunt. 🙂
How do you like the daily Message devotional? I’ve been on the lookout for a new daily spiritual read, and I like the idea of using a devotional with that translation, because it makes the words seem fresh and new (keeps my brain from going on autopilot, you know?). Have you been enjoying it?

Becki - I can appreciate this post. For the first time in a year and a half, I finally have some time to spend with my two girls without having to run older kids everywhere. (The last of our foster children left two weeks ago.) I’m savoring summer, but I also know that these little ones will be the very ones later that will have many obligations and running to do in a few short years. So for now, I’m just enjoying every moment.

Tiffany - My favorite picture was everyday. Keeping it reals. But I now want an art table, hello flea market on Sunday!

Meredith - We did our summer list last weekend and hung it up. My boys love it. We sit as a family and make up what is going to be on it. We have done more things as a family so far this summer than we have done in a long while and it will only get better. Making and effort and finding the time, it is hard but we do it. I am not a morning person, but I am a morning runner. 8:30am on the weekend, I am meeting someone tomorrow to run. It is great, you will love it, once you wake up.

lindsey - I love the turquoise bird dish! I hope the summer slows down for you.

christine ishmael - Just got back from my morning walk and this was the topic of conversation…summer is going by fast and we’ve yet to have any days of just hanging out doing summer stuff! Too much going on…I am working hard to simplify so life is not so crazy but no luck so far! Hang in there, I’m right there with ya! 🙂

Heather F - No summer list! The only reason I made a summer list is because yours were so inspiring. Don’t worry. There is time. Summer’s not gone yet.

Lori Austin - I like real life pics.
Just finished our summer list last night. 🙂
Here’s to July!!
p.s. love the bird dish

Samantha Bayer - July is a good month to relax, hope it happens 🙂

Kim - Hooray for relaxing in July! It sounds like you need it. A July list sounds like a good idea! Yesterday was the last day of school around here. Yep. Today is the first day of summer vacation. We’re taking it easy this summer. Swimming lessons start next week, a trip to a cottage and NYC, but other than that we’ve nothing planned. Perhaps we need to make a summer list today.
So a couple of questions… is it always so hot during the summer in Kansas? 100! Eeek! How do you manage? Or is it just me with my Canadian blood that wants to hide from that heat? Is it humid? Weather is one thing that Canadians love to talk about. Can you tell? Perhaps because our weather can change drastically (like 20 degrees) from one day to the next.

Allison - I’m insanely jealous of your large garden, mine is only about 1/8 of that size. I can’t believe it is the end of June already. This summer is going WAY to fast!

Heather S. - Sister – your June sounds like most of mine in the past. I refused to do it this year. My girls got to pick one camp and one sewing class each. Done. This summer we are swimming, baking, walking, biking, crafting, and a LOT of reading! Loving it! Hoping your July brings you the rest you need!

jennibell - I have felt like that too. Glad that the kids are enjoying themselves. . .and sleeping well. . .and NO TV. . .but yesterday seemed like a rat race all because I wanted to go to the pool for a couple of hours. I couldn’t believe how much I *didn’t* get done when I tried to relax. Sigh. Such is life with four children who are involved — I wouldn’t change that part. We (I) go back to school July 19th and the kids the 25th so we’re looking at our last weeks now. I’ve got some things checked off the summer list, so that is good. Hope you have a chance to slow down soon!

Kim - Relaxing in July sounds great! And it sounds like you need it! I think a July list is a good idea. My kids just finished school yesterday. Yup. Today is the first day of summer vacation around here. Hooray! Swimming lessons start next week.

Janelle - I like your sink picture…and I always love your laundry pictures. It makes me feel better after looking at some picture perfect blogs 😉

Jen Brandt - Our lives are parallel. I had a meltdown Monday night because I felt like I didn’t have a hold on summer. How sad is that to feel like I have to have a “hold” on a season?! I keep telling myself we’re going to slow down, relax, and enjoy summmer more after the 4th, too. Weird. I’ve heard so many moms say this this summer. What’s up with that?
Love the blue bird dish from your great aunt. Love the pic of Annie, too. My daughter, Katy, just finished first grade and in her league they wear pants and looonnnnngggg socks. At least her team is royal blue with grey pants. One of the opposing teams is wearing black pants. Must be men making these decisions! Anyway…have a wonderful RELAXING weekend.

Susan - Oh my, I am so sick of swim team. I stay and swim while she practices but the meets are brutal! It was 106 degrees Monday!

Lisa Q - I am feeling the same way…but I guess after reading happy girl’s comment, I’m thankful for the full and the overflowing busy-ness…we’re off to run more errands today! I’ll make sure to smile!

happygirl - I miss busy summers. Now that it’s just me and my husband and I just go to work every day and come home… summer isn’t the same. Don’t get me wrong, I love it, but it isn’t the same as, whew, thank goodness it’s summer. 🙂

Rosalina Johnson - Couldn’t agree more!!
I feel the exact same way!
Luv luv luv your blog!

Curious Details - Hope you get to catch your breath and make your summer list 🙂

Leah - I agree with you on summer being hectic so far. I can’t believe it’s already July! We did make a summer list: http://leahsthoughts.com/2012/06/14/the-summer-list/ . But my daughter’s been so busy with camp, we haven’t done much. Oh well. There’s always July and August! BTW, I LOVE these photo posts you do!

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only 7 more days…

 

***********************************

my kids are off of school next thursday!
how did this sneak up so quickly??
i am ready for a change but not quite ready to give up my quiet days….but i guess i will survive.

june is FULL of camps and swim team and softball so i am pretty sure we'll stay busy enough. 

 

so last night while my little girls played croquet and i drank my coffee, 
i picked up my camera and shot this jar of daisies i had cut at the craft house on sunday.

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then i zoomed in…..and got a little carried away with detailed pictures.

enjoy.

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         "Don't you think that daisies are the friendliest flower?"  
                                                 
                                                                 - Kathleen Kelly

 
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and then i went to play croquet.  
 
🙂

 

i am out the door to run with my iPod, the wheat fields and the sunshine.

who's ridiculous idea was this 10K anyways???

oh yeah….mine.

hmmm.

its only 17 days away…. ugh.

 

happy tuesday to ya!

 

p.s.  i used my only lens….24-70 at f/3.5.  

 

Mandie Starkey - These photos are gorgeous! Daisies are my favorite flower 🙂

Anna - Love me some Daisies!
I used them for my flowers in my wedding 10 years ago. Not gerber, but the actual field daisies!
Enjoy your wheat field run!

Claudia Bennink-krijgsman - I can’t believe youre summerholiday starts in a week! My children (we live in The netherlands) finish school on the 7th of JULY!! They go back on the 27th of august, when are your children go back to school?
I don’t no what it is… everytime a read your blog I just have to smile… you just make me happy 🙂

Danielle - I love the shot of the one that is about to open up. You’ve Got Mail makes me so happy 🙂

Lela Pohlmann - Those pictures make me want to go and watercolor! I have one week of school left and then my fun begins! Ahhh to try and stay focused until then!

Logan - Daisies are the BEST!! I need some in my garden. Might have to take care of that this weekend. Thanks!

Cheryl E. - Thanks for sharing those pictures! Made me realize just how beautiful everyday things are that we all tend to overlook. God is awesome!

Patt Mullican - i love that you used that quote – only of my FAV movies of all time!

kerry - Amazeballs!!!
So glad you shared your lens and F Stop – that was going to be my question!
🙂 Good luck for the 10k darlin xx

toko baju muslim pria - Your photos are just amazing! I am so in love with them!

Michelle Z. - You’ve mentioned before that the 24-70 is your only lens. Do you find it’s weight to be an issue? I love that lens, but I always hesitate to bring it with me on vacations and long day trips because of the weight.

Donna R - Kathleen Kelly would have loved these pics! Made me smile to see that quote…love that movie!

Life with Kaishon - I love daisies! These are so pretty! My son is SO ready for school to be over. I think he has 3 weeks left…he is not too excited about that at all.

Andrea - You always have the best post timing. My mom passed away this year and mothers day was rocky, but her fav flower was the daisy and you just put an amazing smile on my face 😉

Lorie - I am so looking forward to summer. THings slow down quite a bit for us in the summer and I am looking forward to that!! I hope your last week of school is a peaceful one for you.

Lori Austin - I love that movie 🙂
Some of these pics would be pretty in the grey bathroom at the craft house. They are so cheery.

Rhonda Fendt - I love love love your pictures… it was because of some sunflowers pics you posted last year that I started following your blog! I now I love you too! You are an inspiration to many!
Thank you : )

Linda - Love the beautiful pictures! This is why I love your blog! Just a simple daisy… makes me so happy thank you.

Maria - We have 4.5 days left…I am ready to be done with those homework days…quiet time, not so much.
Swim team will take over our summer too…almost done with baseball though…
And, yay….no more alarms…

ivy - I want your lens. :)And you talent…that would be good too. 🙂

Sarah Wolfe - I’m seeing a canvas of one of these shots in the craft house.. 🙂

Sarah{Handbags*N*Pigtails} - Our last day of classes is 10 days from today but we have the kids for an entire school week after that so we’re coming up with theme days( making homemade ice cream, treasure hunt,etc…) I cant believe its almost “summer vacation.” Hard to believe it but I survived my first year back of teaching!
Then its summer camp and off to Central America for hubby and I. Four days after we get back home school starts back up. Ugh. I dont like thinking about that part.:(

Sabrina - I adore, You’ve Got Mail… and daisies!

Maria at inredningsvis.se - LOVELY PICS:) I really like your blog and I want to follow..do you have twitter or FB??
If you want some swedish decor inspiration, you can check out my blog:)
Have a great week.
LOVE Maria at inredningsvis.se
(Sweden)

holly - Beware of the last week of school. we get out this week and everyone is on edge….sending the whole crew off to my mama as soon as they are done. If they survive…..

Kimberly Dial - Love it! My favorite quote from my favorite movie about my favorite flower … perfect! I think we have 11 more days of school here in WV … summer is fastly approaching … I sure hope it slows down & stays a while 🙂

ko. s - Happy happy daisies and one of my favorite quotes!

Whitni - Do you have any of these prints available for purchase somewhere? My dining room could really use some sprucing up, and daisies are my favorite flower!

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - Kathleen Kelly 🙂 I’ve told you before about how my full name is Kathleen. My wedding flower is a daisy. I’d really like to open up a children’s bookstore. I’m pretty sure that movie is about me 🙂

Lisa - Can’t wait to see your summer list!
We have done one the last 2 yrs. Best
idea ever! Your pics are beautiful. Am finally
learning to use my camera in manual.
You make me miss running. Too hard on
my back and knees though. 🙂

Leah - So pretty. And I totally thought of Kathleen Kelly when you said daisies! Are you making your summer list?! Please share! I need ideas. My daughter is off in 3 weeks. Yikes!

Melissa - If I could, I’d send you a bouquet of freshly sharpened pencils… beautiful pictures!!

tiffany gardner - my very favorite flower!

Jen Brandt - As I looked at these daisy pictures, all I could think was, “Wow. God is awesome.” Love you, love your daisy pictures, and love all of my backyard daisies!

Karen Gerstenberger - I think you have your subject for your next day of drawing/painting! Those close-up daisy photos are glorious – and look at the design in the center of them!
To answer your question (below), we had a lovely Mother’s Day weekend, and I’m so grateful for it – and glad that you had a good one, too. We visited both grandmothers and I got to spend time with my guys. Motherhood is a wonderful gift, and God is so good to give us – and allow us to become – mothers!

Southern Gal - Love daisies and You’ve Got Mail.

Shar - Amazing photos!!

sofie - I can’t believe you’re a mother of 5 kids and are still way more motivated than this 22-year old student to go for a run. Lesson learned. 🙂

Seriously Sassy Mama - i use one lens, the one that came with my camera. I figure until I learn to use my camera, I will save my money. I love that movie. Funny thing, I was just moving a candle from my kitchen to my coffee table, and I thought about Kathleen, and how she always moved her vase of flowers to the room she was in. I do that with my candle. Have a great run. i just did squats. I stop and do them throughout the day.

Lauryn - Daisies are such a simplistic joy 🙂
Your kids are out much earlier than mine. We go until June 7th. My kiddo is ready for school to be out!!

Mollie - Wow, only seven days! This school year flew by!!
Love those flower pics!

christiejayne - You’ve Got Mail is my favorite movie!! They are the friendliest flower!! Beautiful pics!!

Suzette - Gorgeous photos! I’m going to run out and buy some daisies right now! Oh wait, I’m in my pajamas (CA girl)…I guess I’ll go in an hour! Thanks for all of your colorful inspiration!

angela - Run Meg, Run!

Courtney - I love these!!! So pretty!!!

Georgia - So pretty! brightens up my rainy UK day… what Lens are you using for these close ups? x

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