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christmas recap part 4

December 30, 2009

we planned on leaving the day after christmas to go to my parents…
but they were still snowed in at their house.

we spent the day together as a family.
watching movies…playing with new toys…just all there together.
i ran to the store for a couple things and found a few christmas things half off.
it was a really nice day.

then all of a sudden it was time to go.
we were on our way to the wedding of craig's cousin brett to kim 2 hours away.

it was a beautiful building.
everybody in the family was there…almost.
it was a great party.

all the way from california….

it was really fun.

best wishes to brett and kim.

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Tonya - So, you’re telling me that you were at the Great Overland Station and didn’t let me know?! 😉 Before we moved a few months ago, I lived like 5 minutes from there. I’ve taken tons of sr pix down there too….it’s a beautiful place and the surround area is super cool w/the train tracks and such. Looks like you had a blast!

Melanie - I love her dress. Looks like everyone had a great time.
Have a great New Year.

Cate O'Malley - Love that wedding dress!

Elisa - You were so busy!!
I feel like a slug compared to you.

Diana - Ohhhhhhh, love her dress! Simply gorgeous wedding! 😀

Nicole Q. - I can’t believe you got three days home alone . . . awesome!! Your celebrations all looked fun . . . we’ve got one more to go this week at Grandma’s here in town!!

carissa... brown eyed fox - after seeing all your Christmas recaps…
we’ll be coming to YOUR home next year! k?
so fun!
wishing you and your family boundless blessings in the new year! ♥

Stephanie @ Geezees - What a beautiful wedding!

Dianne Avery - That room is gorgeous! The bride was lovely too.

Heather Giustino - Oh, that dress is gorgeous!!

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - Looks like a fun wedding. Man it’s been a long time since I’ve been to one. Always makes me remember our special day again:)

marci - this has nothing to do with this post…sorry…i just found your blog and i think you have an etsy shop but i can’t see a thing to do with it here on your very inspirational blog. and i have never been able to operate my email thingy on my mac and so i can’t email you! will you contact me and tell me how to get to your etsy shop? thanks ever so much.

immyyas - Beautiful wedding! Great wedding dress! Ahhh to be young & thin again………

sandy toe - Looks like a lot of fun!
Happy New year to you!
sandy toe

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christmas recap part 3

December 30, 2009

now that the family was home from their ski trip….the family gatherings had to begin!

craig's mom's:

the traditional fondue that happens every year.

my niece morgan reading the christmas story in the bible.

sean got a remote control helicopter and it was the hit of all the toys.
and then it got stuck in talby's hair.

the duerksen grandkids…all grown up.
seriously.

craig's dad's:

there was smoked brisket and creamed corn.
sean shouted "WHERE did you get this corn?!"
he loved it so much he had to find out where it was made.
i told him and he didn't believe me that it didn't grow that way.
it was good.

daphne got to come out of her kennel at the end for annie to love on her.

daddies make the best jungle gyms.

the winter storms started in as we drove home from here.
and it continued all night.
craig's sister and her family ended up staying with us that night.
craig picked up his cousin at airport.
the rest of his family driving from california was stuck in traffic from the weather.
it took them hours longer than usual.

we went to church.
my kids were NOT well behaved.
oh well….this will pass.

this arrived in our mailbox on christmas eve:

a german magazine called Kid's Life used my pictures for their article on decorating with kids at home.
i didn't know they were going to use the picture of my neighbor baby London.
what a nice christmas present!
there were two other full page pictures also. SO COOL!
and aunt peg was visiting…she speaks german…so she translated! awesome.
thanks Kid's Life!

our kids opened their christmas jammies and a super soft blanket…just for them.
everyone loves new pj's.

christmas morning:

nice jammies….

sean got a stereo and some classic rock CD's – van halen & pearl jam.
the stereo has a remote….score!
scott opened his gift and said "a football….thanks!" trying to sound as excited as possible.
i said "you're welcome…there is something else in that box"
he found the iPod box and asked "this isn't really what it is…is it?!"
he was shocked.
that was fun to see.
and he gave me a big big hug…. i loved that.

after we opened gifts and ate our christmas breakfast and had another cup of coffee,
we started to get ready to go to my parents.
we were packing our bags when they called and said they were snowed in.

change of plans.
not going to my parents.
we had snow and wind but they had LOTS of snow and wind and ICE.

we relaxed a bit and then headed back to craig's moms for lunch instead.
ALL the family had arrived now.

it was a FULL house.

then we decided to have the christmas dinner that we would have missed…at our house.
so we drove back home and i cleaned up for an hour.
craig shoveled snow.
then everyone in craig's family came here. it was great!
nice to have everyone being flexible with plans changing.

they brought all the food.

i provided the cosmopolitans.
and cookies.

baby stella was our entertainment all weekend.

then we played several rounds of The Name Game.
do you play that game at your house?
Snot Dork-sen was the most original name…along side Mr. Noogie Nugget.
silly boys.

when i went to put the kids to bed everyone cleaned up my kitchen!
truly the best way to throw a party…they bring all the food AND they clean it all up!
ha!

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Dana D @BoysMyJoys - How cool is that, to have your photos published AGAIN!!! Please show us the other pages, too!!!
That is SO exciting!!!

Sarah @ Clover Lane - Your home looks so warm and cozy and welcoming and fun. Love the magazine picture…famous again!

alyssa - Pearl Jam is not classic rock?!?! I’m getting old…

Melanie - Looks like you had a wonderful Christmas. I love the story about the IPod. Don’t you love it when the kids get something that they aren’t expecting. Last year we gave Caden a laptop and he had no idea. Love the look on his face!

Diana - Wowwwwwwwww, lotsa fun doin’s, lotsa family togetherness — and all that food looks oh-so-yummy!!
Where did they get Sean’s remote control helicoptor? Hope Talby didn’t have to lose any hair getting it out!

mel - Love reading about how other families celebrate Christmas! Looked like you guys had a wonderful Christmas (with LOTS of celebrations, like us!)
And, congrats on the Kids Life magazine article! You Rock!

Heather Giustino - Looks like you guys had such a great time!! That is too cool about the magazine, and I love the daddy jungle gym pictures – so sweet!

Courtney Walsh - Oooh, I love your movie collection and I spotted some mint brownies in one of those pictures!! My favorite! 🙂 mmmm. Looks like it was a great Cmas! We had tons of snow too… but it was so beautiful it was hard to mind!!
Merry, Merry! 🙂

Jess - sounds like a wonderful time. lovin’ the recaps, keep ’em coming!

Dana Banana - Love your Christmas card photos…have some GOOD LOOKING families as friends. ha Feels like we were right there with you during your Christmas celebrations. Call me if you are in the boro during a Saturday Jam practice.

jeanne - That is my kind of party too! Loved all the photos and so happy for you that you were in the magazine…and how amazing to have an interpreter:-)

Cate O'Malley - love that kind of party! love that star garland hanging against the blinds.

Shannon - We had a great visit — thanks for letting us “share” your Christmas morning with you. You need to send me the picture of Todd and I from the wedding in my email when you get a chance — I want to use it as my new profile pic on FB 🙂 Also, send me the Cranberry Vodka receipe -it was sooo yummy! Tell Annie that her webkins will be coming soon. Happy New Year!

purejoy - whoo hoo on the magazine. so cool!! love the dishes. too fun. (coveting… must. stop. now.) would love to hear more about the star garland over your kitchen table.
and of course, the name game. sounds fun. merry christmas!

Georgia - Looks like an amazing day! you all look so close knit. I hope you got some nice presents from Santa Meg!!!
Geo x

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - You really captured the day Meg. All that food and the family all together…wonderful. My youngest got an American Girl doll and hugged me a solid 2 minutes before letting go. I was sitting close to a mirror and I saw her wipe her eyes. Seriously that was the best Christmas gift to me ever!!

DreamGirlLisa - oops I forgot, congrats on the magazine! That is fantastic, and especially lucky that you had family there that could translate. I still buy Christmas PJ’s for my girls too, even though they are 14 & 18 now, but they love it and would be disappointed if I didn’t. It’s tradition that they open them on Christmas Eve so they can wear them that night. Sweet memories!

DreamGirlLisa - Loved hearing about your Christmas adventure! My family is small, I would love it if there were more of us, I love big family gatherings. Thanks so much for sharing a little part of your life.
P.S. is that the Where the Wild Things DVD??? I LOVED that movie, so now I’m excited that it may be out on video already…

misty - what a great christmas!!! I love the pics and looking at all of the food made me hungry! Congrats on the magazine- that is so cool. We still haven’t had our Christmas with family yet- we are around Tulsa Ok and out in the country- we have been home since wed 12/23 because the sleet started in our area around noon on the 24th so we never made it to okc- thank goodness b/c they closed the turnpike and the highways- we would have been stuck on the highway~ instead we’ve been stuck in the house- thank goodness for Sams and buying in bulk!! We ended up getting more snow last night- and there is a chance for a tiny bit more tonight- hopefully the county comes out tomorrow and at least puts some sand on the roads! I have made a list of all of the crafts I want to make and can not wait to get to hobby lobby to get everything~

emily - congrats on kids life:)
i spy pictures of the airplane game… that was my favorite when i was little.
also, there is nothing better than new christmas pjs, love it! & we got Up too:) what a great movie.
looks like christmas was lots of fun for your family.

Megan - I feel like I have a connection with you…1 because my name is Meg too and also because it looks like santa didn’t bring real American Girl dolls for xmas. Santa brought the Walmart version Madame Alexander to us and she is just as beautiful as the AG dolls. My Claire just loves her.
It looks like you had a wonderful holiday with your family. I loved seeing your little one in the air on your husband’s feet. My husband does that with Claire and she says she is a cheerleader, she is 5 and she says she will be a cheerleader for the Cyclones! Not my first choice because we are really from Cornhusker land but this will do.
I have loved following your blog, I have been doing it for some time now and finally starting blogging myself. I love your house and your little office nook with the kids artwork. I could go on and on but I don’t want you to think I am a stalker…lol. I can’t wait to see more of your life and family. I hope you can follow me sometime.
P.S. I love your necklace from the Vintage Pearl, my sister got one after she had her baby and I have another friend that got one after her twins were born. I actually love that you have you and your husbands names, I might have to copy you. All done typing I promise (for now)
Meg

Debra - Thanks for sharing a lovely Christmas! I so love all your bright colours and especially your polka dot dishes!

Dianne Avery - Congrats on the magazine, that’s awesome!!

Krista - Love your Christmas recaps, thank you for sharing. Love those red dishes with the tree in the middle, where are they from? Awesome jammies, love all the family pics.
Happy New Year to you!

Jules - Looks lovely…all warm and cosy and happy and sparkly! Happened across your blog one day and I must tell you how much I LOVE it! Happy New Year to you and your family!

Dina - I want to know about the Name Game too!!! What a blast!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!

MGF - The Name Game, I wanna hear how to play.
Looks like a day filled with laughter and love.

the wild raspberry - what a great xmas…
we watched night at the museum last night…hank was HILARIOUS!
have a happy new year.

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christmas recap part 2

December 29, 2009

for a few weeks before christmas break craig's side of the family was trying to decide
if they should go skiing for christmas.
the plans changed almost on a daily basis.
in the end…the ski group was craig and the four oldest kids and his sister, her husband and two kids.
annie and i stayed home and his other sister and his mom stayed in kansas.
i don't ski anymore and annie REALLY did not want to go in the car a long time.
i was very relieved to be allowed to stay home.
i feel like all i've done is travel.
and i got a quiet house just before christmas.
his sister and mom even took annie overnight so i was truly alone.

wow.
i was Mrs. Productive.

i cleaned…A LOT.
i addressed and mailed our christmas cards.
i watched TWO movies!!
i hibernated in my own little world….no one really knew i was alone or home or what!
i like it that way sometimes.

i made pineapple vodka for new year's eve. (recipe here)

and cranberry vodka for christmas enjoyment. (recipe here)

all the while receiving photos in my inbox from craig's phone.

i slept in until 11:00 AM.
that is so unbeleivable.

i took a bath and watched all the grey's anatomys in my dvr.
i ate chips and spicy rice for every meal the whole time!
sadly i went to walmart 3 times.
that was lame.

then when i knew craig was headed home from colorado i got working on one of his gifts.
i was so nervous.

but i surprised even myself….and i did it!

i made cinnamon rolls for the first time in my life.
from scratch.
from the pioneer woman cookbook.
so when craig walked in the door from the 8+ hours of driving there was a hot pan of cinnamon rolls
waiting for him.

he was very happy.
which made me happy.

and i didn't read the whole recipe through before i started….so when i got to the part about
cutting them and placing them in the pan i read "one recipe makes about 50 rolls"
what?!
i had made a double batch because i thought my kids would eat the one pan i made right away.
oh no! suddenly i had 100 cinnamon rolls in my kitchen.
my lucky neighbors. :)

the kids said skiing was awesome.
i am still 100% happy that i stayed home and sat in my quiet quiet house.
i highly recommend sending your family away for 3 days the week of christmas.
it helps a mother's stress level immensely.

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design wanna-be - That is hilarious about the cinnamon rolls! Oh my goodness, thanks for sharing.

Jules - Number one, I wanted to thank you for including my glitter dinos on your blog. Thank you!
Number two, I made these before and the dough was loose and wet like mud! I don’t know what I did wrong, but seeing you have so much success with them makes me courageous enough to try them again.

Vicki - yummmmmmmm, home made, from scratch cinnamon rolls AND adult beverages all at the same time. Wow. My husband would have had to scoop me up off the floor when he got home with a shovel!!!!! Delicious!!

Dianne - I’m just now reading this (a bit behind this week) and I am IMMENSELY jealous of your alone time!!! Looks like you had a great day, and those cinnamon rolls are something that I’ve been wanting to make, too!

Melanie - Lucky you. I love to be home by myself too. This Monday, Caden starts back to school for the first time in 6 months and I can’t wait to get my house back to myself during the day. I only have one child so it is not like you having 5! I want to make those rolls! They look delish and I love them. I have made some from scratch from a Southern Living recipe and they were so good that I had to send them with my husband to work so I wouldn’t eat them all. LOL

mel - So many things to comment on from this post….
First..pineapple vodka & cranberry vodka? yes, please!
Secondly…you slept in until 11 am?!?! So.Jealous.
Thirdly…how fun they went skiing in Colorado! What resort? I went to college at CU and LOVED being able to ski in the winters!
And finally…were the cinammon rolls hard to make? I got her cookbook for xmas & I LOVE cinammon rolls, but have been too scared to try and make them from scratch!
So glad you had a few days BY YOURSELF! Lucky!

Tiffany - Those cinnamon rolls are divine! Luckily I read the recipe all the way through…it was still an overwhelming amount of rolls!!

tami reed - Those look very tasty yum!

DreamGirlLisa - I love that you got that time alone. I used to get time when my girls were with their dad every other weekend, but they haven’t gone in a while, so my time alone is pretty limited now. It does have a way of refreshing the soul, doesn’t it? The cinnamon rolls look yummy, I have never made them from scratch either, might try it before I go back to work next week. Thanks for the inspiration!
Happy New year!

Donna - congrats on making pw cinnamon rolls – I’m LOL – I’ve made them a couple of times and they are a lot of work…I can’t imagine doubling up on them. Send me some!
I’d love three whole days 🙂

Christina - Oh my gosh, I am laughing so hard right now about the recipe and the cinnamon rolls! I didn’t realize it made that many either…thanks for the heads up. I thought I might make them while my parents are here this week. Normally I use a recipe that doesn’t involve rising, at all!! It’s so easy. But I had the notion of splurging. Anyway, thanks for the laugh.

Nina - that’s great that you had 3 days to yourself! I have made pioneer woman’s cinnamon buns before and they are so yummy. I gave them to all of my sister’s, SIL and mom.

Patricia - 3 days.
Alone.
In your own home?
Man, I’m envious!
I’m loving the cookbook from Pioneer Woman … we’re working our way through it one recipe at a time :o)
Happy New Year!

Tonya - i’m insanely jealous that you got to spend 3 whole days in your home….alone! that’s my favorite thing to do every once in a while. i also love that no one knew you were there….that cracks me up!
i about fainted the first time i made pw’s cinnamon rolls and saw that it made 50-60! i’m sure your neighbors were thrilled by your “mistake”!

Jess - my goodness that’s a lot of comments! {i’ve been lazy lately and have just been reading in google reader.} i could comment on every thing you wrote, but that would be a page long! so i’ll just leave you with “yum”.

Kat - Sounds like you had a couple of really lovely days! Its nice to be able to sit and get a heap of stuff done in one hit. I made cinnamon rolls earlier this year and took them out to visit my aunty in St George. They were delicious!

Karen - Oh I am so envious!! I have only adult kids and I am still envious! I LOVE when they come home….and I love when they go back to school. Am I bad? 😉

linda lou - meg i want one of those cinnamon rolls RIGHT NOW take it to amy’s and i’ll pick it up!!!!
i can taste it now. amy’s mom

Lisa Liddell - I dream of sleeping until 11am.

Chiot's Run - I love homemade cinnamon rolls – 100 is a lot. Did you know you can freeze them in pans for instant gratification when needed? I give out pans of frozen rolls to family & friends for Christmas.
Glad you hear you had a great relaxing time at home alone, sometimes that’s a wonderful thing!

Christy - Sounds like a great holiday! Oh how I wish I had seen those recipes before now! Not enough time to try them for NYE, but I am thinking that pineapple vodka would be great for a summer drink in hot AZ! Thanks for think link.

jeanne - I just saw that you are a finalist!!! You deserve it and I am so excited for you!!

Melissa Gruber - sounds wonderful…i think after the holidays would be a treat too…i am exhausted from it all.
the rolls look wonderful…great job!

karen - that was so sweet of you to have those rolls ready for craig!

Anna - Wow – congrats… and those rolls look d-lish!
It’s funny about the alone time, I didn’t realize how much I enjoy being alone – does that make me a bad mommy? Anyway, when I was growing up, my dad always took my brother and I fishing on Mother’s Day afternoon – I thought this was really strange at the time. I mean shouldn’t kids spend the day with their mom’s on Mother’s Day? But I now realize he was really gifting her and himself. He also took us fishing on Father’s Day too – a double treat for mom!

Sara @ It's Good to be Queen - wow, now that just sounds dreamy.

sarah - Those cinnamon rolls look so good. David and I ordered the book for ourselves for christmas after seeing it in barnes n noble. We’re so excited to start cooking from it!
And the first one we want to try are these cinnamon rolls!!

seleta - I’m so freaking jealous. But not in a mean way, ha ha haaaa.
Ohhhhh, you lucky duck.
Since there is no babysitter in our New Year’s equation, I may have to try that pineapple vodka recipe..can’t hurt to have one innocent little cocktail on New Year’s Eve, right?!?

Lori - I am very bad about reading recipes all the way before I start. 100 cinnamon rolls, I love it. And that pineapple vodka looks amazing. I don’t have 10 days til NYE but will definately try my hand at it. Please post your “review” of the vodkas! Have a wonderful NY EVE!

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - Oh so glad you had time for just you…what a treat! Those rolls looked amazing. I have her cookbook and have yet to make one thing, now THAT is lame:)

Anna Marie - Lucky lady! That sounds nice. So does that mean that you can check “Weekend with NO kids home” and “Make cinnamon rolls” off of your list? Or does that weekend thing INCLUDE the hubby? So funny about the abundance of cinnamon rolls. :o)

Maria - yum…those cinnamon rolls look great…I may have to try those out very soon…so I guess you could change the song now…on the 10th day of Christmas…100 cinnamon rolls?
What a nice gift to have the house to yourself!

Amy Mierzejewski - sounds wonderful! but where was Waffle? I need more pics of him, please!

immyyas - That is hilarious about the 100 cinnamon rolls… so something I would do. I double everything… habit from growing up with a big family. Isn’t instantly seeing a smile on hubby’s face when he walks thru the door the best! It makes the whole evening awesome! I want someone to take my kiddos for a night… heck, I’d even settle for a couple hours. Sadly I probably at least 6-12 months or so before that will happen… lil one is only 3 1/2 months & middle one is a 2 year old monster that only wants Mommy!

Katie - Sounds like you had a great 3 days!! I’m going to try to make that pineapple vodka I think!

Tegan and Tage - Those vodkas look amazing. I made kahlua for gifts this year but I am definitely going to have to bookmark those for next year!

Laura Phelps - GREAT IDEA! Thanks! Next year, I am sending YOU my kids!!!!!!!!!

shelly - We loved PW’s cinnamon rolls! One huge tip that I got from a friend’s mom years ago is to use a long length of thread to cut the dough roll. Just put the thread under the roll, bring the 2 sides up like you’re going to tie a knot (cross them but not knotted), pull the ends tight and viola—perfectly “cut” rolls!

amy j. - They were yummy! THanks for sharing! 🙂

Elyse - Wow! That sounds like HEAVEN!!! And next time you have extra rolls just call me up and ill be happy to take them off your hands! 😉

angela - Just READING your post relaxed me! So glad you got to spend time alone!! I have been meaning to make PW’s cinamon rolls. I will do that soon….any tips?

Heidi Jo the Artist - Yummy! Can’t wait to make some cinnamon rolls!
Merry Christmas! A little late. 🙂
Happy New Year! A little early. 😉

Amy - ooooo…those cinnamon rolls! Awesome! Been meaning to check that cookbook out! 🙂

Kelly - I sent my husband to get a Christmas tree with just the boys this year. Just those couple of hours were heavenly! I bet 3 days was incredible!

Cate O'Malley - Nothing like a quiet house to recharge your batteries. When the kids are gone, sometimes I’ve been known to eat three meals in bed, with a stack of magazines and the DVR at the ready. Sometimes it’s just what the doctor ordered. The cinnamon rolls look delish!

Carisa - I made those rolls too for neighbor gifts. We loved them!

Flower Patch Farmgirl - I decided yesterday that the most challenging part of motherhood for me is that I am someone who craves alone time on a fairly regular basis. And getting groceries doesn’t count. Nor does dinner with girlfriends. Alone is what I want. Me, myself and I. Every now and then, I get some. Your stint sounds like complete perfection!
I made the rolls too, on Christmas eve, for the first time. Yours look swirlier. I’m a total active yeast novice. My dough seemed too sticky?? And the melted butter made a gigantic mess. Maybe I’ll try Amanda’s idea (up in the comments) next time.

Alisa - I think you and I are made from the same cloth girl…that sounds absolutely fantastic!! And right before Christmas…even better!! I love my alone time, but unfortunately it doesn’t happen very often.
Those rolls look heavenly!!

erica - oh my goodness, that sounds wonderful! i’m sure it doesn’t happen that often with 5 kids 😉
i was looking at your last post and my 3 year old, sean, saw the picture of the classroom and said “WOW what is that?” i said it was a class for school and he now wants to go to that school. so cute.

Amanda - Did you have a problem with the butter getting everywhere? I melted it like the recipe said and it was just a huge mess. The next time we make it I’m going to just soften the butter, mix everything in to it and spread it like frosting so it doesn’t get everywhere

susie whyte - 3 days?? what’s that like?? i hope to experience that someday. 🙂
i saw the pineapple vodka recipe on sugar shop’s page a while back. that should make new year’s a memorable one…or maybe a forgettable one?? i dunno.
our families and friends LOVED the cinnamon rolls this year. such a great present. it’s time consuming, but so worth it in the end.
that camera phone takes awesome photos! glad they had fun!

Cassie - wowza…can’t even tell you how jealous that makes me.
also, i’d like to by your neighbor. not so much for the cinnamon rolls, but for fruity vodka! 🙂

Dana D @BoysMyJoys - What an awesome Christmas present for you! I think I’m asking for a few days alone as a gift next year! 🙂
The cinnamon rolls turned out beautifully! Craig is a lucky fella! And, so are your neighbors!

Lorilee - Isn’t it amazing what we can accomplish with a little uninterrupted TIME! Those rolls look awesome. I am a complete pushover for cinnamon rolls.
Blessings,
Lorilee

Nancy - First of all, I am a total cinnamon roll addict. I got the cookbook for Christmas and that page is marked. Sold…
A night completely alone… that is a gift in itself. HOly cow… the possibilities are endless. Just the quiet would be priceless..

Kimberlee J. - Nice job. The rolls look fabulous.

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christmas recap part 1

December 28, 2009

on the last day of school before (their incredibly long) break
annie had a sweet little program at her preschool.
when the parents arrived all the kids were "sleeping" in front of the cozy fireplace.
they got to wear their pajamas to school and bring a special blankie.

when they woke up they each picked out a christmas book and found a grown up to read to them.
annie and i read Little Critter's Christmas.

next was snack time.
the preschoolers served us.
i heard ms. kristin telling them "if you slip like fancy nancy…that's OK!"
so cute!
i think i drank 4 cups of water…i didn't want to turn any preschooler down.

i just kept my camera up to my face trying to pretend my child was not the only one being a total spaz.

"if you can see me…do what i do"

"we fish you a harry chris moose"
hahahahahaha

they are best best friends.

shhhhh…don't tell your grown up what your present is.

i got to open it on christmas morning.
i love it.

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Ms.Viliya - oh, sweet pretty colorful Annie! how i miss you and Micah! yes, somethings are never changed, you two are best best friend 🙂
lovely pictures, thanks for sharing, Annie’s mom and Ms.Kristin 🙂

kristin - oh, i love all of these. it’s so fun to see this from a different perspective. i linked over from our preschool blog….thank you.

Mrs. - Probably the holidays have made me feel sentimental, that and the fact that the 12 year old at our house was petulant this year that Santa “forgot” to bring the much-admired cell phone, but I actually teared up reading this post, and wished heartily for a few of those crazy needing-constant-attention pre-schoolers I used to have.

gina - What a fun place that preschool looks like! i love how they draped the ceiling!

linda@LimeintheCoconut - It is all just as cozy as Hot Chocolate with marshmallows…and colorful!!! Oooooh I love all the fun and vibrant color. You know…they say we learn best with color!!
Cute post!

Cori - I love the photo ornament. Those are the ones I treasure most on my tree too.

Vicki - What Christmas love!!! I have one hanging on my tree too, it’s heart shaped with my wiggly worm’s face peeking out…a treasure to be sure!

Melissa - cute, I love the Christmas tree in the classroom.

alice - 🙂

Melanie - I really have a lot of respect for teachers of kids that age. How cute the classroom looked, as did the kids. I love all the handmade gifts that Caden made for me when he was smaller. I know you love the one from Annie.
Hope you have a great week.

Cate O'Malley - Love all the bright colors in preschool – you can’t help but be happy there.

Leah - Meg…just wanted you to know that I really love what your blog has grown to be. I feel like a wierdo typing that…but really I mean it. I’ve been reading for over two years now and I just clicked to your actual site (from Google Reader) and just really was blessed by what it has become. It’s always been great…but I think it just keeps getting better. Hope that makes sense and blesses you!

Dianne Avery - I love the picture with the boys head in her lap. So sweet!!

Flower Patch Farmgirl - I LOVE it that they are best, best friends. I hope it always stays that way.

Kirsten - Cutest! I have a similar little photo frame…from about 15 years ago…it’s a treasure 🙂

jeanne - So, so cute!!! I love that her best friend has his head on her lap. I am glad that I have my camera lots of time to hide from the things my children are doing.

sara's art house - Oh my word! So cute! Wish I could go to preschool!

Julie - Are those peppernuts I see? I used your rainbow cake for a birthday cake for Jesus this year! Here’s where I blogged about it… http://homewifemama.blogspot.com/2009/12/happy-birthday-jesus.html

immyyas - How fun was that!!! No worries every mom thinks their kid is the only one that is a spaz…really they all are! 🙂
LOVE your little ones jammie choice – looks like something my 4 year old would put together! LOVE the teachers jammies – I’d like to get me some of those! Ohhh & your “present” was awesome too!

meaghan - this is seriously the cutest preschool ever. my sons was too academic, so i pulled him 😉 he thought xmas break was the end of the year (teehee)!

Ashley Ann - I do believe that is the BEST preschool ever! EVER!

Georgia - Ohhhh i wish i was in preschool again! although mine was never that fun…. Looked very relaxed and fun.
By the way you have inspired me to start a blog, based around my 2 dogs…. (seeing as i dont have children … they are my next best interesting thing to blog about) –
http://itsadogslife87.blogspot.com/

Diana - That was THE best Christmas entertainment in a long time! Aren’t they just so CUTE! LOVE the song interpretation, LOL! Those young’uns are everything ADORABLE!

Priscilla - I LOVE Ms.Kristens pyjamas!!! What a cute programme she had lined up for her students and parents – she is obviously a real treasure.

susie whyte - that is the cutest fireplace set up. so sweet. i had a lot of red-faced parents that would try to play the “who’s kid is that?” game. ha ha. there’s some kid rule that says “i must act as crazy as possible when my parent comes to my class”, cause that’s how it always happens. there’s a zillion parents out there that know what you’re talking about. maybe you should have them hire you as the class photographer. i use to have parents complain about missing out so much on what their child was doing at school and then have their child tell them they just “played” at school. i think there would be some highly thrilled parents.

Sheryl - I just love Ms. Kristen. I read her Preschool Daze blog all the time. As a fellow preschool teacher, the break is much needed so we can start fresh in January.As a mom, I know how you feel, too! 😉

Tegan and Tage - Oh my gosh those little cuties are ADORABLE.

Jennifer - ahahha! If you are a teacher, it’s a very short break. I am absolutely eating up being at home with my children during holiday break. Such a cute Annie ornament!!

Traci - so sweet. i miss those days.

Heather Giustino - What a fun celebration, and I love the ornament!!
{Leila and I have the same pj’s as the teacher!}

Sandy - i love the picture of annie’s best best friend laying on her lap. so sweet.

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go vote…

December 28, 2009

*******************this post will stay at the top for awhile to keep you inspired….there is so much bloggy goodness to see!********************

i made it to the top six!!! now you get to VOTE for reals.

********************click on the banner to go vote for your favorites in all five categories *********************

show hide 29 comments

add a comment

Kate - I voted! Meg you are amazing! I have spent hours on your blog site mesmerized. I hope i am half the mother and wife you are. oh my.. Keep up the great work. (:

teri - someone help. can’t figure out how to vote. registered and am clicking away but nothing is happening!

Meredith - Just voted. To be fair I did check out the other sites, but I voted first knowing that yours is my personal favorite. I check in with you everyday for great ideas. I love the format of your site and that there are no ads. You Rock Meg!!! keep up the awesome work. See you tomorrow. ha ha

Dianne Avery - You’re number three now, woot!!
Misty, it fought me too. Then I realized that I didn’t put in the verification number in to actually get the account. Once I did that, and clicked back on the “Homies” link on her page, it took me right to the voting page.
disclaimer, I’m REALLY tired so I wouldn’t be surprised if the previous sentence didn’t make sense. 🙂

tami reed - Happy New Year to you and your family!

Vicki - Happy New Year, can’t wait to continue this crazy ride called life, so much fun getting to experience it with you guys. Thanks for a year full of inspiration…

Krista - I voted! GOOD LUCK!!

duchess.of.reel - In my opinion, you’re the one to win this category. What I love about your site: NO selling advertisements!!, no stealing from other sites (if you share, you send us to their site), lots of rainbow color, so happy, fabulous photos-always, lots of fun things to do and share with family, sharing life as a Mom with/for other Moms—and the list goes on. Keep up the excellent work Meg! I know it’s tough working on a blog daily. Just remember there’s a bunch of us out here in blogland reading daily–even though we don’t comment every day. Hugs–Duchess

beth - Congrats MEG!!!!! I just voted for you !!!!! hope you had a great christmas and this new year is awesome for you !!
xoxox,
beth

maria - I wish we could vote more than once! – you rock Meg! Happy New Year!

Diana - Voted!
Go, Meg, go!! Go, Meg, go!! Rah-rah-rah!!
😀

mel - CONGRATS!!!!
and, I just voted for you!

Meredith - Congrats Meg…nice way to kick off 2010! Hope you and your lovely ones have a Happy New Year. Meredith xo.

carissa... brown eyed fox - i saw that… SO happy for you!
whoooooop!
whatever… IS the go to “kids at home” blog… come on!
way to go… shining so bright!

Heather Giustino - Done and done!!

DreamGirlLisa - okey dokey, just voted for you:)

paige - oh my word…am i dork or what
why did i JUST NOW get the whatever thing?
i sorta figured you where just like ‘whatever’, not philippians 4 WHATEVER–I LOVE IT!
you are a total rockstar meg
your bathroom
ummm
yeah
i think i could just move right in
& the chandi’s in your twixler full kitchen
grandslam my dear
off to vote for ya’…..congrats on the top 6
WHATEVER!!!!

Jacci - I voted! 🙂

Rachel - I found you on the Hommies website. Cute blog! I’m planning to look back through all your archives!!

the wild raspberry - just voted…..good luck!!!
chas

Georgia - Woooo Go meg!!!
I just voted for you, I hope you win. *fingers crossed*
Geo x

Theresa Hein - I forgot that I wanted to add that my hubby got me a plaque from hobby lobby with phil.4:8 on it! How cool is that?!!! ~Theresa

Theresa Hein - just came over from bushelandapeck…love your blog will now be following, oh and I voted before I came back here, GOOD LUCK!! ~ Theresa

kasey - I just voted and had my friend vote as well!
You deserve to win…
xo

candace - woo-hoo! you deserve a tiara and some flowers.

Cori - I just looked-you are a contender!!Good luck Meg!!

Seleta - Congrats Meg!!!!!!!!
xoxo
Seleta

misty - i am feeling stupid about now… i registered so that i can vote for your blog & CAN NOT figure out HOW to vote . =( can anyone help me with this?
misty_tharp@yahoo.com
thanks!

Kelly - Done. 🙂

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the homies

December 26, 2009

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

There are awards for all sorts of blogs, but no one ever pays enough attention to the shelter blogs, so we started The Homies. It's our way of surveying the blogosphere each year for the best new home design blogs and sharing what we find. It's not so much a competition as a celebration of the richness and awesomeness of shelter bloggers around the world. Join us, share your favorites and check out the ones you don't know.

There are five categories and none of our blogs or past winners are eligible. The prizes? $50 to the winner of each category and lots of traffic as we publish the five winners in a big congratulatory post across our network on January 6th. We want to elevate good home blogs, see who you love and gain awareness for the home niche.

***************************************************************************************
so…now you can click over to ohdeedoh/apartment therapy
and check out ALL the blogs that are being nominated.
you can nominate your favorites…you can find all kinds of new blogs to get inspired by.

feel free to mark me as one of your favorites…if i am one of your favorites. 🙂
i'm under the Kids At Home section.

thanks.
now grab a cup of coffee and click here to get inspired!

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add a comment

kim - congrats on your nomination!

Adoriainherworld.blogspot.com - Hey, Meg!
I just wanted to say that you are such a big inspiration! I love your work, all of your albums.. your ideas are great – seems like you know how to have fun! And you have such a wonderful family – no wonder you are such a happy person :))

Diana - Wow, that is a cool site!
Added you as my favorite, of course! That put you up to 26 when I did that!
You will win, we know you will!! 😉
*crosses fingers*

Candace - yeah, so i kind of added you under the home design category because I didn’t know what i was doing. ooops!
i cannot wait to curl up monday morn with my coffee and check out all of these blogs.

kana - Hey girl,
I finally got to your blog and have enjoyed looking at all of you PRETTY photos! I hope you and your family had a wonderful Christmas!

se7en - Ooooh Yummy!!!! ‘cos I voted for whatever!!!! What a yummy list of places to look at!!!

Cori - I just voted for you, pioneer woman, and hooked on houses, my 3 favs. Happy New Year!

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merry christmas

December 25, 2009

show hide 34 comments

add a comment

Marisol Avila - Merry Christmas!! Love this! What did you use to create it? Hope you have a very Happy New Year! 🙂

Lori - LOVE this 🙂

edie - Hey Meg! I love this collage. Do you do your collages in typepad? Your photography is so inspiring. I got photoshop cs4 for Christmas and have been working on a ’40 things to do while I’m 40′ list—I liked yours so much this fall and wanted to try it.—except unfortunately mine say 40 instead of 35!! I’ll link to you when I get mine posted. I just wanted to thank you for all the inspiration this year. Wish we lived closer, I’d love to meet you. You aren’t by chance going to Blissdom in Nashville are you?
And any chance you’d do a post with some of your photography tips?
Lots of love and enjoy the kiddos this week!
edie

michelle - merry merry christmas meg!!!!
love your card. cheery, colorful, happy, beautiful, vibrant, unique… just like YOU!
xoxo

princesslasertron - we loved your card! it’s right next to my computer so bright and pretty. merry christmas duerksens!

gina - LOVE your collage- so very MERRY!!

Tegan and Tage - Amazing Christmas card! I am going to have to mimic that (best form of flattery, right?) next year. 🙂

tami reed - This is adorable your family looks too cute and colorful!

sarah - Hope you had a very wonderful Christmas!!

Christina - That is just great! Merry Christmas!

Kelly - merry Christmas!

mel - Merry Christmas to you & your family!
Hope you had a wonderful day together!
p.s. I did some of the crafts you posted about last week & blogged about them (and linked back to you) It was so fun! And, I made the red velvet cupcakes yesterday…YUM. Thanks for the great ideas!

Sara Cameli - I’m Pooped! Merry Christmas yawls! ha ha

Brittany - Merry Christmas, Megan and family! I love your card!! Can you tell me what font you used? I hope you all had a blessed day!

Betsy - Very cool card!
I happened upon your blog this summer when I was blog hunting on my summer vacation (from teaching). I wanted to say “thank you” for giving me lots of great ideas, inspiring me to do things to my new condo & entertaining me.
I’d love to know how you did this … of course, AFTER you have a lovely day with your family!
Merry Christmas 🙂

julie - best card ever.
true story.
the end.

elizabeth - Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family!

Meredith - Merry Christmas to you and your family from sunny Australia! Hope you are having a wonderful day with your lovely ones. Meredith xo.

Sarah @ Dream In Domestic - Merry Christmas, Meg!!! I hope you have a wonderful time with your family!

Kat - Merry Christmas to you and your family. I hope you have a great day!

Laura Phelps - right back at ya, baby
xo
Laura

adrienneK - so sweet! merry christmas to you too!!!!

jennifer - Merry Christmas Megan! Hope you’re having a wonderful day with your family.
I just got to see a bunch of the pictures that you took of my sister, niece and other assorted family members. They’re beautiful!

Diana - Merry Christmas and many blessings to you, neighbor!

Jill J - Beautiful! Thanks for sharing yourself and your family with us! Merry Christmas to you too.

Stephanie Howell - merry, merry christmas to you, meg!
hope you have a beautiful, blessed day!
xoxo

Chiot's Run - Love love love!

Tracy - Merry Christmas to you and your family, Meg! :o)

Heather Richter - Merry Christmas! ~Heather R.

julia - Merry Christmas to you too!

donna - that is adorable!!! is that your xmas card? i want to do one like that. i never send them out anymore because it is too hard to get all my kids together – teenagers aren’t home much and one in college………but that is a great idea. How did u do that?

Lorilee - Love all those photos! Merry Christmas.
Blesssings,
Lorilee

sara @ It's good to be Queen - Love it! So cheery & bright, just like your blog!! 🙂 Merry Christmas.

Melanie - Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you Meg.

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