whatever

Blog

Category Archives: school

this week

May 23, 2015

i will say it again… i don’t like when shows end.
i don’t mind if it’s like “Full House” or something but when it’s MY show that i go to every week for down time… UGH!
and i keep getting told “all good things come to an end”
umm… NO. No they don’t. they don’t HAVE to.
blah.
mad-men-cast-interview-grieving-the-end-ftr
so it’s over.
and I’m sad about it.
i loved every single episode.
in the beginning, i tried really hard to not like this show but i just could not!
it’s too well done!
you can’t NOT like Madmen if you start from episode one and watch… it’s impossible.

and i could never pick a favorite character because i love how they all work together.
i will miss this show.

and then ON THE SAME WEEK David Letterman retires.
i mean really.
he has been in my life forever.
since before i knew what late night tv was!
and he has ALWAYS reminded me of my dad… the way they speak… deliver a joke.
there wasn’t a single show where i didn’t think “sounds like my dad” and i almost always said it to craig.
1035x801-letterman-1800-1396621705
we didn’t watch much anymore… but i liked knowing it was there.
and then this week with all its farewells i loved Tina Fey’s honest and hilarious and brave goodbye.
i loved seeing REALITY of what it takes to wear those dresses…. she’s a riot.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2tKhr5Ujbd4

–

and let’s see….what else could end this week?
oh yeah, SCHOOL!

my Annie ended her elementary school career!!!
she is now a middle schooler!
WHAT?!
like as in… i don’t have ANY children who go to the elementary school anymore?!
bittersweet in every way.
the whole school & the parents line the halls of the school and clap for the fourth graders as they leave on their last day. it’s a fun way to celebrate them. Annie thought it was embarrassing. ha ha ha annie

and Sean is now ending his middle school years and is moving onto high school in the fall!
our school does a promotion ceremony for eighth graders that is casual and fun.
since it’s my third i managed to make it through without crying…. knowing it’s just another step in the journey.

i didn’t cry because i know he is going to do great!
he was SO HAPPY to be there with his friends and having such a fun day.
he’s really looking forward to football in the fall.
i will have a senior and a freshman in the high school and an 8th grader and a 5th grader in the middle school.
kinda funny.

–

AND one of my BFFs moved away this week too!!!!
my exercise buddy.
my thought processor.
my organized genius.
my calming presence.
dianna
it’s only two hours away but it will never be the same.
boo-hoo.
i am going to miss her so much.
she is truly the kindest person i have ever met.
EVER.
sighhhhhhh.

so… yeah.
don draper, david letterman and my children’s youth AND my bestie left me – ALL in one week?!!

i earned my margarita last night.
all three of them.

show hide 11 comments

add a comment

tracy fisher - i’m just getting back to reading blogs… took some time off. oh boy do I miss reading yours. have the best summer ever!!

Flower Patch Farmgirl - Grumpy frog suddenly makes sense.

Wendy - We are going to watch the entire series of MadMen for the third time. I LOVE this show so much and really can’t get over that it is over. I thought the end was pretty good but I was just so sad that it was over. I really liked what they did with Peggy. That was my favorite.

I love the stairs so much and I am so glad you shared. I have an odd stairwell that I seriously am considering doing this to. Right now it is pine treads with unfinished fronts because I haven’t touched it since we removed the ugly carpet. i have painted the walls but that is all. You always inspire me! I love your blog and really how you share. You are still my first blog to check on. Long time reader! You have such courage, faith, and honesty. Thanks!

-Wendy

Debi Meyers - i love ya Meg. I hope we meet someday. Best photo of Dave. I love his little caramel-colored glasses.

At a crossroads, I chose The Walking Dead over MadMen. Can’t say I’m sorry. But you make it look worth my time.

deb meyers

Carrie - I have also never heard of middle school starting in 5th grade. In our area most middle schools start in 6th grade. A few districts start it in 7th grade and some have 6th grade centers.

Eugenia from Southern California - Woweeee. Middle school doesn’t start until 7th grade here. I have two boys in their twenties and another two traveling the journey.
A boy starting middle school and a girl starting 3rd grade in the fall. School doesn’t get out until the middle of June and starts again at the end of August. My kids are counting the days until they get to swim nearly every day.

I love the time without homework and longer fun days.

You are a brave brave woman. xxooo

Jen - I feel the same way about Mad Men. I loved every minute of it, and I thought the finale was absolutely brilliant. And I have a senior who graduates on 6/1 and heads off to college (four hours away) in August. I think I’ll go have a bottle of Moscato! 🙂

Debbie H - I meant 5 to 8. I’m in shock and can’t type, apparently.

Debbie H - HOW is that possible!??? Annie JUST began kindergarten! Have I been honestly reading your blog THAT LONG? You MOURNED the day she left for school (kinder) hahaha. And Kansas does middle school from 4 to 8? California is really out of it, I guess. I learn a lot here. . . I might need a marg. wow.

Lisa - That IS a lot to happen in one week! The friend moving? The hardest I would think. Good friends are the biggest blessings in life. And I have never heard of 5th grade being in middle school? Is that the norm in Kansas?

Lpro - What a week! I think you should have 3 more this weekend 🙂

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

a new start.

August 19, 2013

School started up for us again last week.
It was so early! I wonder why they started so early this year? No idea.

Everyone was up at 6:30, ate pumpkin muffins for breakfast that Talby made & were wearing their new school clothes.

Annie was very excited about her new backpack that came WITH a matching lunch box.
We found her dress at the Gap outlet on our way home from vacation this summer.
We knew immediately it was coming home with us.
she chose a pair of her great grandma’s earrings to wear on her first day… that was pretty special to me.

Talby found her first day outfit at Old Navy. We love Old Navy at our house! I love that she picked jeggings.
They are really cute!
Someday she will look back at those and feel the way i feel when i look back at my stir-up pants i wore.

sean

Sean was the least happy about school starting again.
he likes to hang out and strongly dislikes early mornings… we are so similar.
his headphones he bought himself are a staple around his neck. i don’t want to forget that either.
i wonder what will be around when he grows up and looks back on those big headphones?

Scott got a ride to school with a friend before i could snap his picture.

Lauren was up early too and Annie gave her a hug goodbye… she was moving to her new dorm an hour later.

it was a big morning at our house.

i absolutely love that my kids can ride the bus to school.
not having to leave my house in the morning is A W E S O M E.

another year… a new beginning… i know it will be great.

lauren and craig had loaded up the cars with her things the night before.
i had another cup of coffee, did my hair and drove my daughter to a new stage of life.
actually she drove herself and went so fast that i lost her and we had to find each other later at the college.

(kind of fitting….)

she chose a small-ish college that is 30 minutes from home.
close but not too close.
the process of choosing was all so interesting to watch… since she is our oldest and we haven’t done this before.

when we got to her dorm, all of these people in red shirts were waiting to help her move her things in!

we literally carried in NOTHING.

it was weird but also totally helpful and amazing.

it was my kind of moving experience!

we unpacked her boxes, met her roommate, made the bed and met craig for lunch.

we ate in the cafeteria. 🙂

craig headed back to work…lauren and i went to target for a few more things.
we got her a trashcan, some snacks, a new bedspread, some kitchen utensils and new socks and undies.
that is what moms are supposed to do i think?
i don’t know…. it felt right.

i made one last trip to her room and then we hugged goodbye.

i don’t really have words for that moment.

i can’t believe we are here.

it is surreal.

and i didn’t have this moment… i didn’t go away to college. i got married and left with a husband.
i didn’t have an experience to compare it to really.

i drove to starbucks for a giant iced coffee.

i cried all the way there.

not because i am sad… i am not. i am so excited for her.
but more just because it is a new start.
and i don’t know how to navigate it.

she’s the first.

and new things are…. NEW.

sometimes that is good and sometimes it’s hard and usually the unknown is a little scary.
but that is where i come back to God.
He never leaves me alone in my fear. He never abandons me in my sorrow.

i drank my coffee, wiped my tears and drove home to the other kids waiting for me.
i prayed all the way there.

hopeful.

grateful.

oh so grateful for a new start.

show hide 57 comments

add a comment

Heather - Is your wedding ring real??

Vera - I am catching up on all my blog reading… this post made ME cry. I feel like such a wimp – my third baby just started preschool last week, and my fourth (and last baby) learned to crawl out of his crib on Tuesday. My husband said “well I guess it’s time to take down the crib” and I YELLED “no way! I can’t send my third kid to preschool and get rid of the crib in the same week!” My husband woke up this morning and said “okay, new week, can I take down the crib now?” The transitions that make you proud and sad and scared and excited at the same time are so draining! College though… wow.

Jenny B. - This post has me all choked up! My youngest started Pre-K last week, and my husband and I got to go out for lunch by ourselves (YAY!). He asked if I was sad, and I was like, “No way! I’ve been looking forward to this day for years!” Then he asked if I would feel the same way when they leave for college, and I was all, “No way! That will be a completely different story!” 🙂

Christina - Well, now I’m crying!
I put my oldest on the bus for the first time on Tuesday. (he’s 5) and my baby (3) is starting pre-school, just two half days a week, they LOVE it. They are so happy and I’m so happy they are happy .. but it’s different. They’ve been my sidekicks, you know? I didn’t cry when Nate got on the bus, but I cried reading this. Sometimes you’re strong for them.
Hope you find your footing- change is HARD.

Renee - I remember moving in day for college sooo vividly. I didn’t cry, until my parents left.
oh and the district I used to teach in started in early august… and we were done before the end of may. it was AWESOME!!!

Sandy - What a busy day you had! My tears started with the picture of Lauren and Annie hugging and didn’t stop until after the iced coffee. Taking the first child to college is SO hard! I did it five years ago. On September 1 I’ll be leaving her at the airport as she leaves to be an au pair in Paris for a year. I doubt that’ll be any easier than leaving her that day five years ago! Hugs and love to you, Meg! You’ve done a great job as mom!!

Eva - I cried. I cried at the end seeing your oldest daughter hug your youngest daughter and how much they will miss each other without really knowing it. I cried because well it feels like yesterday I went away to University and left for four years and some how now I’m married living in our own house with two daughters of our own. I cried because one day my 3.5 year old and 4 month old will be all grown up and will one day be at that stage. I cried because I am happy for both you and her. Something about your relationship with Lauren always reminded me of my mom and I. To amazing new beginnings for both of you. Our babies grow much to fast.

Janelle - My babies are only 5 and 7 but you had me crying at the end of this post. So not ready for college!! Mainly just because I want to go back to college, not be old enough to have my kids there. 🙂

Jennifer - I cried just reading this. I only have 4 years left with my oldest, and I can’t hardly believe it. Both my kids are in middle school this year and it’s just so weird. Seems like they were just babies yesterday.

BTW, can’t believe how tall Sean is getting!

Valerie, both my girls tell me they are never leaving too, but with my 8th grader I’ve started to tell her that it’s ok and I want her to have a life of her own and do fun things. It just hit me this year that she really will be going away in so short a time. 🙁

Leah - I had tears in my eyes as I read this. I remember moving into the dorms and college. It was the best experience of my life. So I can relate to Lauren’s excitement and her new start. But as a mom to a daughter, I now dread this day already. And mine is only starting kindergarten in two weeks!

Marilyn M. - The first time is the hardest. My sister told me when she sent her oldest daughter to college she didn’t know what to expect. Was hard, but got better fast. When she sent the second one off it was less traumatic and was like “cool” the house will be clean all the time. Look forward to less clutter.

Andrea - wow….what a day! I had tears in my eyes just thinking about you moving Lauren into her dorm. I don’t know why…I’m with you…it’s bittersweet. exciting, but new. What a (great) day.

tracy - i cried reading this. i feel like it is going to be tomorrow when my daughter goes to college… and we’ve still got 2 years. but i get it. she’s already distanced herself. reminds us that she’s growing up. it’s hard. blessings to you and your family with your new chapter/year. hugs, tracy

Lori - This post made me bawl!!
First of all the pic of Annie and Lauren….uggh!
Secondly, taking your baby girl to college. I don’t even
want to think about it. Thankfully I have many years, but I’m sure it will all fly past and I’ll be taking her to college tomorrow. I am not a fan of change….not at all! Sigh….you have a great attitude about it all for sure.

Carrie - Almost 6 years ago I gave birth in the parking center of our birthcenter with my oldest. On her birthday she will go to her first day of Kindergarten. I am ok with it, I will cry when the baby starts Kindergarten I think.

JulianneB - Oh, Meg…I had some tears as I read this. It was a little over a year ago that we took our son to Indy so he could take a plane to Chicago and start Bootcamp for the Navy. One of the most difficult but proud moments of my life. Now he lives in exciting places like San Diego and Dubai later this year. Next fall I will be sending son #2 somewhere to college. Thank goodness God planned a baby we didn’t. She is only 9 and tells me she is living with me forever….we will see.

Valerie @ Chateau A La Mode - Uh, yea, totally what I am feeling right now. Taking my son in 48 hours. Funny cuz what you said about God being there through our fears and tears is so true and I ‘ve heard that more than once lately so obviously what God is teaching me. Thanks girlie. Love your openess to share your heart. xo

Heather S. - Can I be honest here? This post made my heart stop. I have a 6th grader and 4th grader. I remember them in diapers like it was literally yesterday…then I realized that for you, Lauren being in 6th grade probably feels the same…like yesterday…and well, that just makes me want to snuggle in with my girlies and sniff them and take pictures of them and just breathe in every moment I have because the idea of dropping them off at a dorm scares the schnitzel right out of me!
You had a HUGE day. Huge. I’m not a crier and I would have been blubbering! My hat is off to you…

Lisa - It was refreshing to know that I’m not the only one who cries when excited about the unknown. It is sadness and anticipation all wrapped up into one. I too, turn to God 🙂 This new journey’s going to be great!

Tracy - Meg, you are my inspiration. I’m going to try to remember to reread this post next August when I’m taking my oldest away to college.

Chris - Your kids are getting so big!!! I felt the same way you did when my daughter left for college. I had three other kids at home too. You’ll find a different routine with your daughter gone. My daughter is leaving tomorrow for a semester in London. I’m nervous and excited at the same time! We’ll have to find a whole new routine since we can’t just call her when we want. Good luck to your daughter!!!

flowerpowermomma - good job new-college-momma. you did all the things just right..including letting the tears fall. what fun days ahead.

Jamie - That made me cry. My oldest starts 1st grade tomorrow and I’m feeling very emotional about all these 1sts and new starts!

Alice H - I am bawling! My daughter Emilee is starting 9th grade. I didn’t have the college experience either and I want it so bad for her. I pray it over her all the time. I was a very young teen mom and even though I went to a community college, it won’t be the same. And I get so sad thinking about Emilee leaving our home to go to college and then to move out and to start a life on her own. Ugh! Change is hard and new, you are right.

On another note, I also have a 7th grade boy. He and Sean sound a lot alike…lol!

Elizabeth - Meg, I cried reading your college post. I felt some of that exact feelings when moving my son to college. I did not have to words to put with the emotion like you did. Your writings bless me. Thank you

Necole@seriouslysassymama - Oh my goodness, I remember when I left for school. I went away to college (6 hours away). I remember my mom saying she did not realize it was real till she woke up the next morning and I was not there. This year will be the first time all my children are in school. There will be no little ones here with me. Just me. I will probably pick up an extra day of work to kill the monotony.

April R - oh the picture of Annie and Lauren hugging….thank you so much for sharing this

kimberly oyler - i remember when my mom dropped me off at college 3 years ago. i didn’t have to move a single thing into my room, a crew did it all for me. but it was so weird when my mom left to make the 10 hour drive home. you’re a lucky momma since she’s only 30 minutes away!

Sara - You’re sweet dear….and I LOVE that you mentioned that you weren’t sad for her but excited. I have one going to college in two years and I keep telling myself that this is what I raised him to do…to fly away and start living a life that God has planned for him. Prayers for you for all of this “new”

Beth - When did Sean grow taller than Scott!?! 🙂

Jerusalem - I remember the day my mom took me to college. And yes, that is exactly the kind of trip we made to Wal-Mart in the middle of the move. That day remains one of the most special. We were both brave as we hugged goodbye, but then we both shed tears as we went our seperate ways. So a special moment. So glad you were able to share that with Lauren.

Jeannine - This post got me all teary. Everything is so beautifully written and your photos are gorgeous as always. I can’t help but think about what it’s going to be like when I send my girl off to preschool in 3 years, or when this baby is born and I have to send him or her off to school in a few years. People don’t kid around when they say it all goes quickly! It feels like my girl was just born yesterday.
Best of luck to Lauren 🙂 University is such an exciting and fun time, I hope she has the very best memories when she looks back after this new chapter is over. You’ve done awesome, Meg! Aaaand I’m teary again 🙂

Rachel S - Loved this and your honesty. I’ll be sending my oldest to college next fall, and reading this just makes my eyes tear up! Change is exciting but very emotional. But I’m so, so thankful that I can entrust my kids to God’s care, and that He’ll be here with me helping me cope as well. I wish your daughter the very best and you too!

Angela - I love your back-to-school posts!
And I remember so well the day my parents dropped me off at college for the first time. At least your baby went 30 minutes away… This Indiana girl chose a college 800 miles away in East Texas! I remember my parents driving off – I stood there in the middle of the road, so excited, but with tears streaming down my face because I missed them so much already. She will have so much fun and learn so much at school, though. I think you’ll enjoy watching her grow during her time away. 🙂 God bless!

Kristin S - Oh, gah, Meg, you made me cry at my desk at work! I hope nobody comes by.

Thankful you got some pics of Lauren. That one with Annie? Priceless.

It’s funny, I never gave my mom a second thought when I left for school. She was a single parent and suddenly alone in the house. I was just happy to be at school. I loved college so much! Now, 20+ years later I ask her about it.

Just this last week I went to my alma mater and walked around campus praying for incoming freshmen, faculty, current students, administration, etc. It is/was humbling. So not pushing my blog, but I did just blog about it. I bawled like a baby. Like you, not sad, but so many new beginnings.

Many of my peers have kids going off to college now. I thought I would but the Lord has had other plans – still single and no no kids at 42. So, now I feel a passion to pray for their kids.

So many changes. Your littles are getting bigger. You are such a great mom!

(sorry for all the rambling)

Sarah Wolfe - What is it about new school years that are so darn emotional? I’ve already tossed it around in my head, that moment of dropping them off at college (I mean, assuming that they make it into a college!!!). I know it will come and go, and I’m so excited for them. And it will be time when it’s time… so happy/sad, these moments. I think I may have to get an XL iced coffee too. Great post and gorgeous kids!

Juli - A rabbi I know once said there should be a “bracha” (a special, specific prayer) for when you send your child off to college. It is such a huge moment, and it deserves its own special prayer. Blessings on all of you.

amy jupin - so much of life is like this…new beginnings, changes, the ebb and flow of this wild ride called life.
lauren is now on her own, to become who she is to be, and you, you get to watch now. from the sidelines, cheering her on.

it feels so…hard. i’m choking back the tears while typing this, imagining myself in your shoes.
deep breath, chin up, shoulders back, big smile.

you can do this.
you are doing this.
and it’s going to be great.
i just know it.

Katrina - “He never leaves me alone in my fear. He never abandons me in my sorrow.”. Never have I needed those words more than today. Thank you, thank you. A little scared and anxious, but hopeful and grateful at the same time.

Gemma - Such a big day! Atleast she is not far away if she needs you guys.

Gemma x

Terri - Thanks Meg for sharing. I also took my baby daughter to college and it is so strange to be crying but to be happy that you’ve made it this far and you know only good thing will happen for them. We are emtpy nesters now and so far so good. My thoughts are it will never be the same and I’m very sentimental. But God keeps reminding me it is going to be better than before!!!!

Jenn - I just cried with you. Wow! What an emotional day.

marcie - Wow. Big day. I know that feeling – I have an ‘only” so dropping her off at college 3 years ago seems as recent as your post. It is exciting for them and it was a wonderful thing to be able to send a child to college but it is bittersweet as well. But, it is so exciting and amazing when they come home and bring friends and you watch their lives from a little bit of distance. It is an intriguing thing to not see them everyday and then spend time with them on weekends and holidays. Those times become so special. Love that she is close – mine is an hour and 15 minutes away so very do-able 🙂 Love that. And I couldn’t help but smile – for the last 2 years my daughter has been at her college in one of those bright t’s unpacking new students, smiling and reassuring parents and new students alike… and then she and her Sorority sisters go get manis and pedis!!!! And thank God for Starbucks and tears and prayers in the car!!

Kimberlee Jost - Beautiful, refreshing, and real.

Tiffany - My oldest in a Senior this year and I hardly recognize him, his moods, his tudes, his voice. I am tearing up as I type, but I know this too shall pass. Feed your faith and starve your fears. Good Luck to you and Lauren.

gale - Exactly how it’s supposed to be – hard, exciting, sad, happy – when the first one leaves the nest, it’s so tough to be the Mama bird – but she’ll do awesome and so will all of you!! Happy flying 🙂

Jaime A. - Oh Meg. I am doing the ugly cry for you right now. Our kids started back 3 and 4 weeks ago (3 different schools and start days)… My oldest is a Senior in high school… and while he’s not college bound, he’s on his way to having his own life soon and I am having a hard time with that. BTW, I am dying over Annie. How is it POSSIBLE she is in the 3rd grade. When I started reading your blog, she was a little… one you would take for donuts or cupcakes while all the big kids were in school. It’s crazy. But, here’s to new beginnings… and iced coffees and car rides with God. 🙂

Kathleen Grace - That is a big day! You are lucky Lauren is only 30 minutes away…bet you’ll be surprised by how much she drops home:>)
I cried all the way home dropping my daughter at college, 2 1/2 hours away. Still not too far to drive to see her but it seemed like the longest 2 1/2 hours ever. You will adjust. By the second year my husband and I were high fiving each other as we left the campus from dropping her. Lol

Kellie - I cried Sunday and bit my lip to not cry yesterday as my baby went to 9th grade because I know we are now on the college clock…..and I’m just not sure how we got to high school so quickly! I am sure she was in kindergarten yesterday! 😉

Bethany - College drop-off seems very far off and yet I can’t believe my oldest is soon-to-be a preschooler with kindergarten just a year away. I always appreciate your perspective as a mom of older kids. It is so important to enjoy your life right now where you are and you always remind me of that. And what a good reminder that God is always there.

Carol S. - I love your back to school photos. Love that you shared your college drop off experience. I think you’re going to enjoy this stage with your oldest, as they learn to be independent…which is what we want for them. A friend was lamenting her oldest twins leaving, and really having a hard time with it. As I think about my sophomore in college returning, I think about someday all of the kids being on their own. Why can’t they just stay with us and be a fun family? But then I think…what if I still lived with my parents, think of all the joy all of us would have missed? Can’t work that way. Don’t want it to work that way. This is the right way! Doesn’t make it easier on the heart though. Thanks for sharing, and listening. Sharp new blog, big new beginnings. Good luck Meg!

Sophie - I’m a junior in college and it was super hard leaving home. But if Lauren’s anything like every other college student I know, she’ll miss you just as much as you’ll miss her.

Julie - A big day for you all – no doubt home will feel a little strange without your big girl there. I am lucky – we live to close enough to my son’s school that he can now bike or scoot there without me, and my daughter catches the bus to hers. I do miss chatting to the other mums though. Have a great week. Enjoy your mornings.

Gina - I guess I am normal!! That pretty much sums up my experience “dropping” my oldest off at college last week, only he is half way across the country, closer to you than me. Definitely a new stage to navigate, a little unknown, a little exciting, a little scary. Yes! Lucky us to have God guiding the way 🙂

Lisa - That is quite a day! My mama heart feels for you. Loving your new blog!

Kate @ Songs Kate Sang - Love this. It’s gonna be great.

Jenn A. - That is quite a day! If you only cried from the college to Starbucks, I would say you were quite composed!

My baby is almost 18 months and I can’t imagine sending her to kindergarten at this point but I know in three blinks she will be headed off to…somewhere new in an adult life.

Thank you for sharing.
Jenn

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

spring break going on over here.

March 20, 2013

we are on spring break from school this week.
we decided to take a little vacation with the kids to get a break from the same old thing.
it was very laid back and deciding IN THE MOMENT what we would do next.
we left on saturday… we had planned to leave friday but couldn't get ourselves gathered by then.
(typical duerksen family move)
and came back late tuesday night.

i was going to open my shop today but we had so much fun just being together the last four days
that i didn't have any time to work at all.
so i never got into the shop to finish up the details.

isn't that a great problem to have?
having too much fun with my kids?
i would say so.

i am going to try for Friday at NOON.

Annie's class had a program where they were each dressed as their Famous American they reported on.

she could practically be Theodore Roosevelt's twin!

the whole class was adorable all dressed in different costumes they came up with.
each one stood in front of all the parents, gave three clues about their character and the parents wrote down our guesses….i did not get them all right.

they wrote these long reports after doing several days of research.

i know Annie was so nervous to stand and speak but she did GREAT!
we were very proud of her.

we were even served fruit punch and cookies by our famous americans.

———————————————–

show hide 25 comments

add a comment

Jenna - Super impressed with Annie!
And it’s okay, I’m having so much fun with my baby on spring break that I forgot to check your shop yesterday anyway. Great problem to have!!

Gale - Fun with family is WAY more important! Glad you had a fun trip – it was fun to see your IG pics!! Besides, I’m off Friday and can watch (I e. stalk!) your shop better then!! 🙂

Jack - I’ve learned some American History today! Looking forward to the shop opening on Friday!

misty - I’ve been reading your blog for years & I just really felt OLD reading this post. I can’t believe how big Annie is! She is such a beautiful little girl 🙂
ps- this is random
What happened to your friend Laura’s blog {pieceofcake}?? I had a post from her bookmarked about marriage that I thought was so inspirational. I was going to direct a friend to it today & her blog isn’t there anymore. I haven’t tried to read it in for.ev.er., but I was surprised when it was gone.

Karen Gerstenberger - I love her report, and I learned some things from it. Well done, Annie!

Tiffany - What a proud mama you must be! It’s adorable how she dotted her “i”s with a star in the word America! Glad you’ve had great family time!

tiffany gardner - ADORABLE!!!

betsy - Annie is a GREAT writer! Some of my fourth grade students wouldn’t be able to come up with that long of a report after days of research.
Glad you all enjoyed the Spring Break vacation. I’m hanging in KC for my break, and I’m in complete denial that more snow is coming tomorrow. Seriously?!?!?!
🙂

Tanya - That report was great! She did a fantastic job – and she has very neat printing 🙂

Debbie Hargadon - I LOVE second grade! At least my kids did this in 2nd grade. Amelia Earhart. 🙂 It was 5 minutes ago that you were stressing about her leaving for KINDERGARTEN! She is not even mine and the time is FLYING. good grief. 🙂 LOVED her report! That is a keeper! Thanks so much for sharing it.

Sarah{Handbags*N*Pigtails} - She looks great! We just had oral reports at Family Night last week. And this week has been Fun Week at school. (Since its a Christian school), yesterday was Favorite Bible Character Day. We had everyone from Mary Magdalene to Jethro(who came with a stuffed sheep!) to Jesus’ mother Mary(an American Girl Bitty Baby doll played Jesus) to King Josiah and more. The kids have had a blast-they’re so fun!

Becky - What a great report! You must be so proud. I didn’t know his wife and mom died on the same day… can you imagine?!!

Becky - I love how she dotted the “i” in American with stars 🙂

Kristin S - Well, that explains why nothing has happened as I’ve refreshed your etsy store all day long. So glad the reason is time with family. That’s a good one. 🙂

Seriously Sassy Mama - Fruit punch by a famous American would definitely have been a highlight for me. How fun!

Tanya H - That’s awesome that she’s doing that much work at this age! My son is in 5th grade and just did his first report (equally funny for his level, lol) and they do a wax museum, similar to this, at the end of the year.
Happy Spring Break! 😀

Tracy - Good job, Annie!!
Will you share where you went on vacation? I’m always looking for inspiration for last minute getaways with my 4 kids (close to your kids’ ages) and husband. Please share!

Penny - Here is the link http://youtu.be/FyJZqHyKKIw

Penny - What no Martin Van Buren– http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FyJZqHyKKIw 🙂
I think her report was wonderful. And I never knew his wife and mother died the same day, how tragic!

Shannon - What a fun thing for Annie to participate in, I bet the parents got a kick out of the kids all dressed up! Glad you guys got to have some fun family time, looking forward to the shop opening on Friday 😉

iralee - he was a pretty important dude, especially if the ‘spanish american war would still be going on if he were still alive’ !! lol- this is so cute!! my son (8) wrote a short story about martin luthur king, jr. my fav line of his was that ‘his sister knew him before he had the big dream’ haha i LOVE kids writing! its the best!!!

Heather Simnitt - Ok – loving that you are loving time with the fam. love that. was so excited to visit your shop today, so not loving the delay in store opening. just keepin’ it real. Friday? Noon? will need to set my phone alarm for this…..

CathyC - Your Theo. Roosevelt is so cool! My son’s 3rd grade class is doing the same thing in April. He will be Thomas Edison. Can’t wait.
Also, can’t wait till Friday!!!
Have a great day!!!

Shauna - Last night I actually had a dream that your shop opened but there were all sorts of strange things for sale, no cute pillows or rainbow hoodies! actually, it was more like a nightmare! Haha!!
Glad you are having some quality family time 🙂

Mel - What an absolutely beautiful reason to delay doing work. Keep enjoying your lovely family.

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

mondays.

August 20, 2012

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

annie – 2nd grade talby – 5th grade

sean – 6th grade scott – freshman

dorks.
i didn’t see that the boys were not smiling….
oh well.
memories.

school is in full day swing already and i am enjoying the quiet days.
i can say that because then i love when they come home so much more than when there is no break for months.

lauren’s first day was on a day with two-a-day volleyball practices so she left on her first day before 6 AM.
that is why she is not pictured. 🙂

ok…
now i want you to click over to read about the CRAFT WEEKEND that we had two weeks ago.
it was another amazing time.
God is so good.

show hide 15 comments

add a comment

Amber - You know what’s so crazy about blog land? I was looking at these pics and thought to myself ” huh, i remember when Annie was starting preschool” its just so neat to have memories about someone elses children. Even though the majority of us will never meet, its like we Know each other:-) thanks for sharing your fantastic kids!

Sandy - *Sean not Shawn. Ooops! Sorry

Sandy - Beautiful cildren. I CAN’T believe Annie is in 2nd grade already! Seriously?! Also, shocked at how much taller Shawn is than Talby and only being one year apart. Scott and Shawn don’t look too happy about school starting. Here’s to your whole family having a great year!

elisa - The last picture cracked me up. So familiar!!

kerry - we’ve got 2 weeks left – lord give me strength! 🙂
Have a great year Duerksen kids – my kids are so jealous you don’t have to wear uniform! xx

Mary - what a beeeeauuutiful family you have!
blessed, indeed!
xoxo

happygirl - You have the best looking family, EVER!!!

Angie - Shew, how lucky you are to have them all in school. I’ve got another 4 years or so before that happens!
You have beautiful kids 🙂

jackie grandy - I am so laughing at the photo of all the kids especially the boys. They look so thrilled to be having their photo taken, not!
My kids start Wednesday. Where did the summer go?

tinycandi - My daughters start second and fifth grade tomorrow! 🙂

the whyte house - my friend’s second grader asked my kindergarten son, “how was your last day of freedom?” LOL. i am woo & hoo’ing everyday at drop off. haha. love school.

Alicia @ La Famille - they’re all getting so BIG!! happy first day to YOU!

Leah - Great pictures. Is Lauren a senior or in college?

Lori Austin - We have a few more days of summer before our first day. Sigh….
We also have a dress code at our school so no super cute bicycle dresses.
Bummer!!

Chrissie Grace - I’m laughing at the boys. They look thrilled! haha As thrilled as my 7th grader did on his first day 😉

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

promoted.

May 24, 2012

so this is it.
my last morning home alone.
and i am not even home alone…scott is here with me.
but you know what i mean…home without a child who needs me to get their breakfast and stuff.

i love summer.
but that first week or two is always an adjustment for ME.

scott was promoted out of eighth grade last night.
i took a few pictures at the ceremony but they were all blurry.

in my hair's defense….
we'd had 100mph winds all day and it was 100 degrees in that room…and fluorescent lighting.

TWINS! :)

i could've started tearing up at any moment.
like when he said "congratulations freshman class of 2013" or when they gave out awards.
but i held it together.

this school year was excellent for all the kids in the new school but i think especially for scott.
it has been a really great year!
i am grateful for that.
these kids are awesome…such wonderful young men. they are quite goofy….but wonderful.
i am so happy we get to watch them grow up together.

so….i guess i better do SOMETHING with my last 3.5 hours alone.
dishes? laundry? mop? vacuum?

no.

a long hot bath….at the craft house….YES.

show hide 26 comments

add a comment

Wendy - Congrats Scott! Love your blog Meg!!!! You are inspiring me to be crafty and sporty! 🙂

April R - gotta chime in with my 2 cents
1st penny: about your hair – I was looking at the first photos and
I promise one of my first thoughts was,
“She looks very pretty. Her hair looks good – wonder how she got that texture and body?”
then I scrolled down and saw your “in my hair’s defense…” then I thought,
“Aww, how many ladies do that? Think something is messed up when other’s are thinking
it’s just fine.”
Then I thought, “She’s still got a sweet smile on and enjoying her family; smart lady.”
I’m going to try to remember that the next time I feel self conscious about myself. 🙂
2nd penny: Good for you on the bubble bath. I spent a morning at the beach all by myself to celebrate the last day of school – Haven’t done that in so long I can’t remember so it was a sweet blessing 🙂

Jen Brandt - I was thinking how great your hair looked! I hate mine these days!

Laura Phelps - EVERY SINGLE SUMMER I have the same reaction to your posts…that I can not believe how early your kids get out of school.
Maybe next year I won’t be surprised.
I guess it is because I am so NOT READY.
Jack is home sick today with an awesome rash…
and Luke has no school…
and the rest have a half day…
and THAT has me twitchy…
can not imagine them all home. together. in my house. with me.
have a great bath….and congrats to your graduate!

Lori Austin - Freshman year – good luck! 🙂
Stop – you look fine.
Summer – I’m trying so hard to have a good attitude. I have
a few more days before mine are out. I have decided to make a SUMMER LIST to help with my bad attitude. 🙂 Thanks.

Karen - He looks so grown up! Before I read your reasons that your hair looks “bad” I was thinking “wow, I wonder if I can pull off that awesome look?”. Seriously. Not joking. 100%. Still thinking about it.

christine ishmael - I’m so jealous you have a private house to take a hot bath in! What’s better is you probably don’t even have to clean the tub before you can get in…Who does that? Lucky girls, that’s who! ha ha…enjoy!

Dani - Way to go, Scott! Freshman… WOW! I remember those days of high school.
Your hair is great! I love short hair.. so easy to fix!

Sara Torbett - Big day at your house! 🙂 Welcome to summer too. I have one baby and am expecting another..so my days of that much alone time are far, far away. But coming sooner than I can imagine I’m sure. I do loove to take a long bath on the weekends though! So relaxing :). Do you guys have a summer list written yet?

Trisha - Awww, I can’t believe Scot will be a freshman next year! I miss that “kid”. Seems like he was just in my 4th grade class. 🙂

happygirl - Welcome to summer. This looked like a lovely event. It’s sweet to have the grandma there. 🙂

Seriously Sassy Mama - I too have a couple hours till summer. I work this weekend, then my girls are going to my parents at the lake for three days so I can get stuff done at the old house before we turn over the keys. Enjoy your bath. I have not taken a bath in peace in over 8 years. There is always a girl who wants to hang out with mommy. Life with three daughters.

ko. s - Congrats to Scott. I had to double take at the last picture. 2016!?!? That seems so crazy!

tammy kay - Congrats to Scott. I think your hair looks great too. 🙂

Leah - So exciting for you! Is Lauren graduating high school now? Is she off to college? I can’t imagine!

Sandy - “In my hair’s defense” … I love it. That made me laugh (but your hair doesn’t look bad!). 🙂

Tanya H - Your hair looked great! I hear ya on the bubble bath…I’m trying to decide how to spend Friday….I could get a lot done, or! I could take the last nap of the school year……hmmmm! 🙂

Cathy - Congrats to Scott! Enjoy your last day and each moment of your kids growing up. It goes by so fast!

Suzanne - that is a funny comment about your hair because just before I read it I was thinking, her hair is cute, I wonder if that would look good on me…

Sarah Wolfe - They look like nice boys… glad he’s had a good year. My oldest will graduate in 2020. And I know it will be here in the blink of an eye. He’s already talking about getting his driver’s license 🙂

Becki - I thought your hair looked great! Congrats Scott! Enjoy your last day to yourself!

Southern Gal - I hate you got blurry pictures, but it makes me feel like there is hope for me knowing someone as talented as you at photography gets a bad shot every now and then. My middle son will graduate from COLLEGE in 2013. I feel really old now.

Robyn Farmer - I was thinking your hair was looking fab!

Whitney - I LOVE it that they wear t-shirts and not those horrible cheap polyester robes for 8th grade. Fiona will be graduating on Thursday and while it is in the air-conditioned high school auditorium, I think caps and gowns are a bit of overkill for 8th grade. That stuff can wait till high school and college! Congratulations to Scott and his parents! I can’t believe how grown up he looks ~ like a different kid from the one we knew just 5 or 6 years ago!

Lauryn - Your hair (and you) looked magnificent, even with 100 mph winds 🙂
Is the craft house a far drive?

Routhie - STOP. Your hair is wonderful. 🙂

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

grown.

August 16, 2011

these kids have a lot of nerve growing up so quick.
it's kind of mean.
they just grow and grow….taller and taller….wearing man and woman shoe sizes and think it's fine!
rude.

first grade. eighth grade.
IMG_3420-8

fifth grade. fourth grade.

we started at a new school this year.
smaller.
more like what craig and i grew up in…..yeah…..S.M.A.L.L…..so happy about it.
and they were too.
they were nervous but they each fought it…..they were brave……they are BRAVE.
no tears.
and actually not even one "goodbye Mom" they were just gone….never looking back.

i am proud of them.

snapped this out my window as i drove home.

it's going to be a great year.
thank you Lord.
amen.

(ps….lauren starts on thursday….she was at volleyball practice when we left this morning)

show hide 58 comments

add a comment

D - Farm Taller 4 Idiots leave help you puddle the most of your superlative with an study program that is warranted to get your results you’ll hit to see to consider. The great thing is that the promulgation includes 16 breeding videos that guides you finished apiece study, so you can be trusty you are practicing them properly.
http://www.diet-solution-program.com/

Aurelia W. Johnson - That’s a great site you folks have been carrying out there.
http://www.grow-taller-4-idiots.com/

Doris - so sweet 🙂
great pics!

kristin - what school?!?!?!?

Melanie - Aw, man…I don’t even personally know your kids but just seeing how much they’ve grown and seeing them go off to school almost makes ME cry!

Shannon - Please share where you got Annie’s dress. It’s ADORABLE!! Hope they are having a great week. My oldest stated Kindergarten this week and he HATES going!!! And that makes it hard on Mama too.

Casey - Your photos make me miss Kansas. Such an understated, beautiful place to live!

Cassie - Great first day of school pictures! I love Waffle’s little face peaking through the window in the first picture of the group. You’ve been shopping at The Children’s Place…haven’t you? Love it 😉

Jen Brandt - My 1st grade daughter picked out that same adorable owl lunch bag!

Sara - Love the photo of Kansas…sigh…I miss…

kim smart - you really have a beautiful little family!! i love seeing your photos of them and all the crafts you do together!! i rarely post a comment but wanted to say just how much i enjoy reading your blog! and yes, i too love that waffles is peeking out the window, lol

Lindsey - Beautiful kids… you are a lucky woman. I hope God blesses me with children someday. And I love the first photo with Waffle in the window. So sweet it makes me want to cry.

Libby - So sweet!! I am loving your dog photo bombing the first group pic!! Enjoy your day!!

freckled hen - First day of school pics are always so sweet. You have a beautiful family! I’m so happy to see your 8th grader wearing those black socks as my 9th grader has been wearing them all summer. I’m glad it’s a “style” and not just his style!

Adrienne S - Enjoy your day! I still have about three more weeks before my kids go back to school. I felt your pain about sneaker shopping though. Love the kid prices…not so much adult prices!

Shaina - Miss Talby does not look like a fourth grader, what a beautiful young lady. Annie’s dress is adorbs and the boys look like good ‘ol pre/teenage boys and I love it! Congrats on your first day back to Mom time! Enjoy!

Juli - Oh, poor Waffle looking all forlorn in the background…Waffle wants to go to school too! (or maybe just be in the photos!)

Leslie Davison - Boy your kids are beautiful! Bummer such and early start of school.
I won the prints you offered and I emailed you.
Maybe you didn’t get it.
My email address is sixbeachbums@yahoo.com

Kerry - aaah man, hope they have had an awesome first day in their new school. I LOVE it that you guys can wear ‘normal’ clothes to school, my poor kids are confined to uniform and they hate it! Here’s to a great year 🙂 xx

SaraG - We love the dress Annie has on – where did you get it??
Hope your first day was happy – ours was all new too and all is going well so far!

kasey - thanks for the p.s. at the end.
I was wondering if Lauren up and left home….

shauna - it’s really so amazing.
this job we have.
starting with these little tiny babies and
then turning around and seeing these…people.
awesome, funny, rude, thinking, feeling, living people.
people that you have loved and raised and labored over every step of the way.
i know, it’s not even close to over (thankgoodness), but you are doing a good job, meg.
you are fighting for your family.
you are the real deal.
i have been working on your banner, and using that time to remember the few things i know about you and your children and praying for them as i put each part together.
just wanted you to know that.
now go put your feet up sister!

amy jupin - big day.
big kids.
no lauren?
you made it mom, you made it.
you deserve some sonic.
with vodka.
🙂

colleen from alabama - We’ve been back since last Wednesday! My oldest started middle school! Don’t Blink huh?

Rach - No more bike riding to school?

Rebecca W - what a bunch of good lookin’ kids! glad to hear you survived the summer!!

happygirl - Wow, school already. I can’t believe how fast summer went. Did you finish your chalkboard list?

Kate S. - Love Talby’s expression in that last group shot–she’s such a cutie!

Lisa - LOL – before I got to the end of your post I was thinking “Where’s Lauren?” 🙂 Our kids do have some nerve growing up on us…

Jenna - This made me tear up! How do we stop them from growing??
Jenna
momofmanyhats.blogspot.com

Jen - My daughter wore the same dress today for her back to school outfit as Annie has on!!! Gotta love the ruffles!
Hope you have a great(quiet) day!

Tiffany - I’m a recent follower. Got hooked with your summer fun list idea. We created one of our own this year. I have two kids 3 1/2 years and 4 months. I’m a teacher, but had a fun summer staying home with them and doing stuff on the list. Have you ever done a Fall or Winter fun list? I’m working on one now because I realized I needed some fun things written down to look forward to. I need to remember that just because summer is ending, it doesn’t mean our fun has to!

Debra - I can’t believe those girls aren’t wearing something bright coloured and happy! They look great though.

Courtney - I LOVE Annie’s outfit!!
After following your blog for two… three? years now I can’t belive how big they all have gotten (I’m in denial of my own!) or that sweet little Annie is old enough for 1st grade! Tell them to stop growing, because if your sweet annie can be old enough for 1st grade, that means my daughter really is in her last year of preschool this year, and I don’t want to admit that ONE bit!

Melisaa Barber - Don’t high black nike socks just kill you?! That’s all my teen-age son will wear too! And smaller schools are better. There are less than 100 kids per grade here.

Sandy - I LOVE Annie’s first day of school outfit. ADORABLE!

Ali - Such great back to school pics of their bags and lunches and of course your beautiful kids! 🙂 How did you decide to change schools? Are they all at one school? Did you choose private school? I’m so curious about how you found a small school! I’d love to my kids to go to a smaller school!
~ Ali

the whyte house - my oldest starts kindergarten this week. wichita has ALL DAY kindergarten. GOD BLESS THEM. only 365 days til the next child can go, too. hahaha. 🙂
way to tackle the new school like champs!!

Ali - My child NEEDS Annie’s Dress!! Where, please? So totally cute;)

casey - I agree, I don’t even know you or your kids but I so much enjoyed seeing pics of their first day of school! I was sadden yet excited for them! I can’t wait to hear about how their first day went!
Oh and how as your day?????? (c;

elisa - Love the one with Waffle looking out the window.

Marie Smith - Wow, they let kids wear flip flops to school. Not here….

beth - Can’t get over how much Talby looks like you 🙂 Hope their day is great!

lynne - Seriously adorable kids. Now I have another blog to read! So excited!! Found you from Being Happy. I get mad too when my kids get old. How DARE they!!!

tiffany m gardner - Beautiful children. I know…growing up is bitter sweet. My kids are at a small school now…but when jr. high comes it a different story in okc. Maybe the Lord will change our directions by then and if not…I will depend on his grace. Enjoy your day!

alicia @ la famille - yeah for mama time….BOOOO for kids growing up TOO FAST!! i agree. RUDE! have a good day though 🙂

Pamela Gordon - You have such beautiful children! I’m sure they’ll love there new ‘smaller’ school. Lord Bless you and them!

Katie - Beautiful kids! You did it, you made it through summer. Pray for me because I have 2 more weeks!

kat - Sweet back to school pictures! Enjoy your much deserved time to yourself!!!

Holly - so cute! I hope they all have a great day!

Zoet en Zo - Hope they’ll have a great year. Here three weeks left of ‘summer’ vacatio: lots of rainy days!

Rachel - Back to school already! Wow – it seems like summer just started. I have two weeks left of summer “vacation”. Yeah, I put that in quotation marks because I’m a teacher and, contrary to popular belief, we do not get the summer off. I’ve been working the whole time.
Love Annie’s first day of school outfit. So cute! Your kids are adorable.

Melissa - Talby is looking like such a young woman here lately. Just beautiful!

christine - That Annie is just precious. They all are, but the nervous/happy look on her face is just so sweet. I will be praying for them today. 🙂

robin - I don’t even know your kids, but from seeing their pics almost everyday and hearing their stories, this post brought tears to my eyes at work {thanks a lot}. Our kids all grow up too fast, and whether I see it on your blog or in my own house, their quick growth is joyful and teary-eyed all at the same time.

Terrie G - I M.I.S.S. those days! How dare our kids grow up…and start having their OWN kids…I mean REALLY…sighhhhhh

Maya - They do grow fast and it looks like whatever you’re doing, you’re doing a great job raising them. Congrats to you and your family!! You WILL have a great year!

Helen Wall - Looks like east of town. Good that they can go out there. My kids did not, but it seems like a great school.

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

wednesday for me.

May 11, 2011

last night was annie's kindergarten recogniton.
pretty cute.

they performed "the very hungry caterpillar" and sang "what a wonderful world"

annie has thrived in mrs. claassen's class this year.
has loved going to school every day.
has made art projects, gifts and cards for her everyday all school year.
that is a good sign of love to me.

ezra is her best buddy in the class.
at bedtime we were talking and she shared that everybody says "why do you always play with boys?!"
i told her it was ok to play with WHOever she wants.
she said the girls always say "annie…come play princesses with us!"
and i laughed and said "you should say…..DO I LOOK LIKE I WANT TO PLAY PRINCESS WITH YOU?"
talby said "don't say that annie….you'll get in trouble"
we all laughed.

she likes some girly things like babies and house and littlest pet shops
but boys have more energy and action
and they are louder.
just like annie.

she has friends that are girls too.

the magnificent chef ANNIE will prepare KAK for your meal

i cannot believe this year is almost over.
it's crazy.
i feel like i am in some weird time warp sucker.
making everything go at super speed.
everyone is growing up and changing so fast.
i want to shout "just stop already!"
for the good moments.
the hard stuff….the tough stuff….it can go away as quick as possible.
move along angry hormones of teenagers….
get going feelings of entitlement and greed or laziness…..
please move faster self centeredness…..
but this good awesome wonderful stuff…like hungry caterpillars & teacher hugs….they can stay forever.

show hide 53 comments

add a comment

Lin - It’s not fair that first grade is just a few weeks from over, that my baby is just a few weeks away from turning seven. It’s not fair that it’s already May. I want time to slow down. I want it to stop, just for a little while.

Sarah Wolfe - adorable pictures!

Staci - I hear ya 🙁 My little kindergartener graduates next Friday….seems like I have wished for them both to be in “all day” school” for a long time…and now that it is rapidly approaching…I’m sad! HOW CRAZY IS THAT?????? I guess I’m a little scared of having alllll that time to read blogs and get nothing else done 🙁 EEEEEK!!!!!! Need a hobby….NEED TO LEARN TO SEW!!!!!!! Anyway…congrats to your sweet and precious Annie 😉

gina - I am so glad Annie likes playing with boys because Ezra sure loves playing with her! And I agree, this year flew by. Pretty sure it was just yesterday that we were bringing them into the classroom for their first day of school.

Kelle - I once said something about watching my kids grow is like trying to hold water in my hands. It just trickles through no matter how hard I try to keep it cupped, and it makes me sad. My cousin (who has older kids) said “yes, but the puddle the water makes below is just as beautiful.”
So true.
Catching up and always, always loving your words, your color, your zest. xo

Jen@thecottagenest - I feel the time passing much too quickly too. This year we have so many endings, one girl graduating and one moving on to middle school next year for 5th grade. Lots of tears here, mostly for the little one. I completely understand the need for time to pass a little quicker for the older ones.

emily - You are the best at documenting your life in such a sweet and sentimental way. I am right there with you not wanting the good things to go so quickly.

happygirl - I love Annie’s haircut. So cute. Yep, they grow up fast. But, sometimes, they move out slow.

Jaime - I keep looking at Mrs.Claassen and I think I might have gone to college with her. Do you happen to know if she went to a small Christian college in Oklahoma? If so…she was the sweetest girl around. She wasn’t married then so she had a different name, but she looks so familiar. Anyway, I would love to say “hello” to her if it is her. Haha! I love blogs, such a small world.
🙂

Carol S - I hear the grandkids stage is fun too…..SLOW DOWN PEOPLE!!

Kait - I’m echoing everyone else who said PLEASE spill on where to get that adorable dress! Annie is always so cute and her clothing is so vibrant. I love it!

Charlotte - annie is precious!
i too love the look of your photos!
i am curious how you tweaked them to make them colored like they are…and also can’t help but wonder if it was a trick to cover up the yellow lighting that always seems to come out in gymnasiums! please…tell us how you did it! 🙂

the.mrs - So cute! LOVE her dress. Need it for me! Spill the beans laday!

Valerie@Chateaualamode.typepad.com - I so relate. So many emotions raising kids.

Rach - Oh such a sweet post. I hope my daughter enjoys school as much as Annie seems to have.

Nicole Q. - man i relate . . . twins almost done with kindergarten and I can’t even believe it. C R A Z Y !!!

Janelle - Check this article out…I keep rereading it and remembering the saying….”don’t cry because it is over, smile because it happened.” My youngest of four is starting school in the fall and I am having a difficult time thinking about this change :\
http://parenting.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/03/22/the-best-part-of-parenting/

Danyelle - I know EXACTLY what you mean. These days, the ones where our children are little + happy + sweet as can be pass far too quickly. The good news is, summer’s just around the corner and I absolutely adore summers with all my children home.

Jessie - Had to share this kak with you 🙂 LOVE your blog.
RAINBOW CHEESECAKE
http://taste-for-adventure.tablespoon.com/2011/03/10/rainbow-cheesecake/

elissa - oh my gosh. that little boy with his little open tie. good heavens, i suddenly feel all sappy

Molly - my 6 year old (soon to be 7!) plays with boys alot too! I think it is just fine!

Sarah@this farm family's life - i feel for ya. our oldest will start kindergarten next year. not looking forward to that!
http://www.thisfarmfamilyslife.blogspot.com

Sarah - LOL, the KAK for for your meal is cracking me up!
I totally understand, I have an 18 month old and I just can’t believe how fast she’s growing up. When I saw that her next Dr. appointment will be her 2yr checkup, I almost broke into tears…no joke! 🙂

Jess - Yeah Annie! Kindergarten is definitely the best. 🙂 Glad she had such a wonderful year.

Shannon - She is so stinkin cute! My older daughter tends to play with boys more as well for the same reasons. She is not much of a girly girl and I’m fine with it but daddy does not like the boys as friends at all! 🙂

sam - I love your blog! Thank you for all that you share. I have 4 boys and feel some kinship with the things you write about. Hope you are having a great day!

julia - I’m currently in the throes of being sad about the last day of pre-school coming up. I can’t even let my mind dwell on kinder for next year.
Pls dish on the dress….must know…

Janine - So adorable. I love that her buddy is a boy. I got teased for having a boy as my friend in 2nd grade. 25 yrs later I married him!

merlin - To me this is the perfect stage/age of life, capable, innocent, sweet, carefree, full of possibility….if only we could all keep that part of us forever in the forefront of life.

Maria - sigh…our kindergarten play/celebration is next Wed…these end of year plays always get me…last year was the worst…the preschool graduation…I am always a mess.
Such cute pics…our littlest has girls for friends too…but they are NOT his girlfriends…lol
Our oldest goes off to Jr High (they are actually touring the school today) next year…so.not.ready.
I am ready for a non-homework, sleeping-in filled summer though…

Southern Gal - Love the profile shot. And I’ll take kak anyday.

Cathy - I’d love Chef Annie to prepare kak for me (or even some cake would be fine)! She’s adorable!

Danielle - Hahaha! What did Annie say Kak meant? She is a little spitfire:)

Alisha - I’m right there with you! My son is graduating from preschool next week and he is the sweetest little guy.
Our 13 year old is EXACTLY how you describe your teens. It’s frustrating and will be wonderful when that stage has passed.
Guess we all have to go through it though. Good with the bad, right?

Kerry - Too sweet Meg 🙂 I had to Laugh… I’m from South-Africa and in Afrikaans, ‘Kak’ means poop 🙂 hee hee – Have a fab day, kerry x

Terrie - Isn’t that the truth?! I was going through a mini album that I made for my son when he was in grade school…some days, I just want to go back in time! To the good parts…only the good parts! Well, no maybe some of the bad parts too…then I can have a do-over! I could use a lot of do-overs! sigh….oh well, I think my kids still love me! 🙂
I saw a commercial about crayola glow-in-the-dark sidewalk chalk…I think you need to put it on your summer ‘to-do’ list! I think I will….maybe when my nephews come in a few weeks! Even if they don’t stay the night…I think I need some for me!
HaPpY WeDnEsDaY Meg!

Cara Kapp - Hi, just like to say I really LOVE reading your blog, have to wait till late afternoon with the time difference!! It’s so funny I’m from South Africa and speak Afrikaans – KAK is a really bad swear word in Afrikaans – it’s a “another” word for pooh.

Katy - that is the cutest little hair cut!

Jessica Johnson - that cut is too, too cute on her! and can mrs. claassen be the cutest name ever for a K teacher? you almost have to teach with that name.

Kristi Barrett - Amen. Very well written!

Jessi - What a sweetie pie.
I’m getting nervous about my babies growing up. My oldest is 3 going on 13.

Cindy - very sweet! i have tears in my eyes now. my firstborn has her preschool promotion celebration next week and then is moving on to kindergarten. and my second starts preschool in the fall. i am just going to be one teary emotional mess 😉 we’re really gonna live it up this summer!!

Georgia - Hahahaha – KAK! im sorry but this is so funny, im cracking up at my desk. I dont ever want her to cook me KAK for dinner..haha

erica - love this post:) and i love that your annie likes to play with the boys…my oldest – doesn’t play with the girls – she loves to be in the action with the boys:) i hope they can all continue to accept her in their little circle (and i haven’t dealt with drama, yet!) she’s going into 2nd grade and it brings tears to my eyes when i think about it. aren’t kids wonderfully awesome?!?

Leslie - I KNOW EXACTLY HOW YOU FEEL!!! Great post…thanks for sharing!

Mandy - Meg – I love the color of your pictures in this post. How do you get them this way?!

Holly - oh Meg! We have kindergarten graduation next friday. It makes me sad that my baby is getting so big so fast! I am ready for summer though!

Heather R. - I love teachers who love on the kids. Sweet. The pic of Annie and her Dad are great. Kak is yummy…especially rainbow ones. 😉

tara pollard pakosta - awwwww I am with you on the good stuff can stay,
tween girl (age 11) outbursts of tears lately, can GO!
cute cute cute annie!
tara

Melissa - It all happens so fast, huh!?!?
I got my box of goodies!!! Thank you so much, Meg! You’re a doll!

Gemma @ Musings of a gem - Hi Meg!
I know what you mean about time flying waaaay to fast…it doesn’t seem that long ago you were posting about feeling sad that Annie was moving up to Kindergarten!
Gemma x

Routhie - I want Annie’s hair and her dress. For me. She is so cute!

Niki - I feel you! My oldest son’s last day of Kindergarten is tomorrow! I can’t believe how fast it has gone! Just think…we have a summer full of fun to look forward to. At least that’s what I’m trying to tell myself. It will last one day until the “I’m bored” starts!

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

search

Search for:
Instagram
Categories

Categories
Archives
Archives

Category Archives: school

search

Instagram

Categories

Archives