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the end.

the end of my freedom. 

the end of my quiet home.
the end of having the computer all to myself.
the end of doing my own thing.
the end of taking a shower without kids walking in…then screaming & covering their eyes.

for three months!
how did this sneak up on me so fast?

here are some pics that were on my camera this week…with very little rhyme or reason.

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my niece maya.
can you guess how old she is?  

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this doesn't look very safe does it?

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i used my happy pass.
i needed them.

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what a good grandma.
she played candyland, UNO, memory, guess who and go nuts…over and over.
annie loved it.

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flowers from the garden.
the peonies are super fabulousand they are my favorites
because they are so darn easy i just get to enjoy them with practically no work at all.

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this drawer was funny to me today.
i was going for the seeds and thought…what an odd combination of things in here.
but maybe everyone keeps their 08' pool passes with their toothbrushes & 4 year old formula holders.

i said there was no rhyme or reason.
you were warned.

so back to THE END….
it's also the start of some good things.
tomorrow is the time for sleeping in.
time for suntans and sprinklers.
time for boxes and boxes of ice pops.
time for painting in the driveway.
time for siblings being forced to play together…bonding…giggling…making forever memories.

i think i will survive.
i think i am ready.
maybe.

can i just have one more week to decide?

Ayoub - 二20 I dont understand what to expsers. This weblog is actually wonderful. That is not really critically a actually significant statement, but its just about all I could develop following scanning this. You know a great deal relating to this subject matter. A whole lot so that a person produced me personally want to learn a little more about it. Your website is my stepping stone, my buddy. Interesting oversees on this subject.

singing teacher - I love the photos, especially the kid with the dog. Thanks for sharing them.

maureen - I love your beautiful photos…..

Amy Walker - I am so with you Megan! Ours finished Thursday, how on earth can they already be bored on Friday afternoon?!?! I told Frank the time has come for the oldest two kids to get their own computers, they have plenty of money in their savings and are more than willing to pay for them, Best Buy here we come!

carissa... brown eyed fox - it’s heeeeeere!
ready to drop in our lap loads of spontaneous chaos! haaaa!
hugs from your colorado… soon to be your wyoming friend! πŸ™‚

Kathy - I know how you feel, my daughter has 4 more weeks of school and I’m really sad for her. Kinda! And I feel bad she only gets 8 weeks off. But I also know I will have too many days of I’m bored and bitchiness coming my way suddenly I’m sad for me not her!

Elisa - That dog- I just want to squeeze Waffle.
My little one finished this week- well I guess I should say 3rd one now, but the others have 3 more weeks!

Debra - Ahh yes, summer vacation. I remember it all well. I have a friend that has three children-finding it difficult to get things done during the summer. She has created ‘time-out-slow-down-hour’… All kiddos to a quiet place {their rooms} for some playing with soft toys, reading, pondering summer adventures. One hour, using a timer. Gives all a well deserved ‘time-out’. Then, let the summer games begin again.

Traci - it will go by so fast. eric still has 2 weeks. we are late this year. i loved playing the “guess who” game with my kids.

aimy - awww….. i soooo miss my pups! we had 2 wheatens when we lived in az. they both had to be adopted out to families in cooler climates. after 4 years they both developed such horrible allergies. our oldest practically chewed her leg off at 4am one morning while i was up feeding the babe. tear. sniff. sniff. and the summer cut… i could go on… give a squeeze from me. i miss them!

JerriR - I too am nearing the “end” and could cry typing this post…last one graduates this week from High School and oldest graduates Masters at the end of Summer. My ever “busy” house will soon be quiet…what will the hubby and I do?? (teehee) I love reading your blog, always makes me smile, and we so want a “Waffle” at our house! Enjoy your summer!

Chasity - love the bubble gum!
chas

amy - i have a sign in my house that says
“please excuse the mess, my children are busy making memories.”
i think you need one too. πŸ™‚
wait-not that your house is a mess…it’s about the memories…ahhh, you know what i mean!
lovely series of pics too.
bring on summer.

Lorilee - EIGHT more days until my freedom!!!!! Well nine if I count the 1/2 paid day for packing up my room. It usually takes 1 LONG day to get it all done. I wish peonies grew this far south!
Blessings,
Lorilee

gina - Lucky- I have one more month. I love summer with the kids. Until about August- lol. then I am READY for Fall. Note to self: plant peonies at the new house- they sound like fun!

AshleyR - Your pictures are so much fun!
Love the Peonies!! They are definitely fabulous. And that Waffle.. he is too cute for words. I want one πŸ™‚

Melanie - Hi Meg. It has been a while. I check your blog but I don’t get a chance to comment every time. All of your pictures made me happy:) You will have a great summer and make it through. I guess I shouldn’t talk since I only have one kid! Enjoy sleeping late tomorrow and steal a few minutes each day for yourself.

Shannan - 1. I can’t believe your kids are out already! Kids out here have another couple of weeks.
2. Your pictures are gorgeous, as evah.
3. I can’t believe you grew all of those flowers! Peonies are my fave, too, but they have not opened yet.
4. What are those pink and white daisy-looking flowers? Pretty.
5. You don’t really have to answer that last question, it was quasi-rhetorical.
6. Why can most normal people grow annuals from seed, but I can’t? I “planted” 3 packets and not one single one sprouted..
7. Sorry about these lists. What can I say?

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - Enjoy your beautiful family. Happy SUMMER!

Laura - no rhyme or reason….that sums up summer, doesn’t it?

Sandy - I LOVE Guess Who and would play with Annie all day (my kids are 19 and 15 and won’t play with me anymore).
Enjoy summer!! I’m looking forward to June 4th when I don’t have to bang on the wall to get my 15 y/o out of bed anymore!!

jamie - Amen!

Rach - Good luck and God bless. πŸ™‚ But hey, it’s summer and summer is AWESOME!!!!

Keri - Our end is near as well. I’m ready! Today, anyway. Ask me again two weeks after school is out….

Anna - I am sure that the summer also holds LOTS and LOTS of photos for you too :o) We all know that Mama Duerksen will be there, camera in hand, for all of those summer memories. Can’t wait to see them!
P.S. You know those mega bottlecaps you got from Maya Road and then turned into awesome magnets?!? Well I contacted them several months ago because they were out. They said that they would be in, in June. Well guess what?!?! I just checked and THEY ARE BACK!!! (Sorry if you already know this) I just ordered my loot of ’em! Woot!

Lori Danelle - Not quite the same, but I remember after I had my second baby, my Mom stayed with us for about a month to help out. When it was time for her to leave, I remember just being so scared of the idea of being left with 2 little girls under the age of 18 months!!! SCARED. I had no idea how I was going to do it.
And then she left, and I made it work. πŸ™‚
http://loridanelle.blogspot.com

Darby - YOu will survive!! It will be awesome… especially not getting everyone dressed and fed and out the door to school.
I know you get a million questions…. πŸ™‚
BUT… does Waffle shed? I know this is a very important question. πŸ™‚ I’ve inspected your floors so closely and don’t see any fur but really… he has to shed a little, right? It would be too perfect to have a dog that cool that doesn’t shed.
If you have a sec, I’d love to know!

Stephanie - As a teacher… I am SO READY for “the end” :o)… the kids have all mentally checked out weeks ago already, and we can’t get much out of them anymore… it is SO time for the end. :o) Hooray!!! :o)

A pocket full of posies... - AMEN Sista! I’m right there with ya! and I’m super excited- I think?! πŸ™‚
Happy Summer!& Many Blessings!

traci - The end to getting up early and rushing out the door
The end to …mom I need money, today is the LAST day
The end to…sign this one and this one and this one and this one and this one and this one and this one….UGH
The end to…..This girl was SOOO rude to me today and I try and try to be nice
The end to ….Mom, can you run up my homework
The end to…..I need this list of supplies for a project and I HAVE to have them all by TOMORROW!!!!!
I could go on πŸ™‚
I am SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO ready for it to be over…YAY!!!!!!!!!!

Joanie @ The Bright Side - Oh, my. I know that feeling! Love your photos, they are gorgeous! Even your junk drawer is cute!! I love all the color in your life that comes across in the photos you capture. Very cheery. Wishing you a very happy summer!

purejoy - welcome to summer. it sounds glorious. and your photos were fabulous, as usual!

Wendy - I have to say that I’m a bit jealous here. Another month of school up here. I’m really looking forward to not having to set the alarm clock.

kristi - wow, you guys end school so early. we still have a month. thank goodness.
good luck!

pam - time for VACATION! lots of togetherness. πŸ˜‰
those peonies are breathtakingly beautiful.
and if you had breast pads in that drawer i’d be wondering. the rest is normal.

Donna - OH by the way. How can I get me one of those “Happy Passes”?

Donna - I have 2 weeks to go and then it is the “end” for me too. I do enjoy the sleeping in part and the “no homework”…….but by mid July I am so ready for the school bell to ring!! Love your pictures. Have a wonderful summer.

Lisa - AAHHHH, NOPE. TIMES UP.
HUGS FROM MAINE

melissa~afamiliarpath - gorgeous! love your photos. can i borrow some nail polish? my toes have been neglected of pretty color.

Jess - Still have two weeks to go here. Feeling the same emotions…how did it go by so fast? will the kids survive the summer without killing each other? you know, the usual.
love the happy feeling i get when i read you blog. your home is so full of love and color. love that waffle, I saw a puppy golden doodle on tuesday, i could have puppy napped him. i didn’t. promise.

Amanda B - You’re so funny. I want your nail polishes, what brand/where’d you get them? Maybe color names too! AND, I’m pretty sure I saw a bouquet of flowers that looked just like those at Jess’s house last night – were those from your garden too? I have NEVER been into flowers, but this makes me just a little bit interested! They are beautiful!

pam - wow you guys end early! i’ve got four more weeks left of my sanity and then i’ll be singing the crazy blues! here’s to a fun summer! what kind of trampoline do you have…we were thinking of getting one for the girls but got the big raised eyebrows from all the grand-parents…funny thing is is we’ll probably get one anyway! xo

kasey - ha.
i still have one week left to contemplate “the end”.
lol

Lisa-Marie - Pink glittery nail varnish, peonies and gum ball machines. Your blog makes me smile. Your photography is wonderful, and real, and you have the courage to write about who exactly you are.
I kind of want to go buy a gum ball machine now!

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sydney

i love the name sydney.

it was always on my list for girl names.
i "met" sydney's mom shannon through a link.  
i linked her…and she came over to see who was linking her.
i stayed at her scrapbook retreat home.
and loved it.
if you can get here with your girlfriends….you should.
i am going to do go back too.

Sydney

she asked me to take pictures of her youngest daughter.
it was special girls day.
sydney was as smiley as could be and loved having her OWN pictures.
are you ready…because she is the cutest little blondie you've ever seen….

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so happy.
the entire time.

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oh it gets even better….
i couldn't stop clicking away with miss sydney.

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she brought her dance costume.
it was A.D.O.R.A.B.L.E.

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her mom wanted some in her costume that would be very different 
from the typical "dance picture"
i'd say we accomplished that.  

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shannon…i hope these are all you were expecting and more.
there are many many more to see.

i can't wait to get back to maple memories!
thanks.

Dediche - – I discovered your blog a few motnhs ago.. and when I grow up lol I wanna be just like you!!! you have captured everything I love about people.. my poor family is really tired of my saying no.. she did it like this and thats what I want!!!As for this little darling look out world!! shes coming to take over! I can feel the spunk clean thru the internet!Thank you for posting your amazing talent.. so the rest of us have something to inspire to be!Mindi aka HoleyCow Designs

Karina - Absolutely gorgeous. I think I have to move to Kansas.

Tiffany - Wow! Those are some really gorgeous photos! The little girl is beautiful and your photography is amazing!

Heather - I am now addicted to your blog! One of my blogger friends (www.ruespeanutbutterandjellylife.blogspot.com)asked everyone for their favorite blogs and then she compiled a list of those blogs and that is how I found yours. I started browsing through on Monday and couldn’t stop reading through until I ended up at your very first post!! (sorry laundry mountain-but you’ll still be there tomorrow)Your photography is inspiring and I am now looking forward to getting my Canon more than ever. Your home is absolutely A-MA-ZING- and you have MY dream kitchen, down to the smallest detail. The activities you do with your kids have given me tons of ideas for mine. Most of all I appreciate and respect how “real” you are. I love that you let people know that is isn’t always easy raising kids, how you show pictures of your laundry pile and messy house. Thank You for that! I am inspired beyond inspired and your blog is now a favorite daily destination. Keep up the great work!
Heather:)

Christy Lewis - Everyday I start my day out on the computer like this….. balance my checking account….. (get depressed!) check out my friends blog (out girl out) then check your blog. Then check my mail. I just have to say everytime I look at your pictures I just want to pack up my family and all of our belongings and move to your town. It always cheers me up and looks so cute! I have lived in st. louis my whole life and love it however I have always dreamed of living in a small town! Thanks for letting me live my dream through your pictures! have a great day! Christy Lewis

Traci - she is adorable and boy does she know how to “work it”. great job meg!!!

maribeth - oh, that last one is my favorite! just precious!!!

Christina - What you are able to capture is amazing! Great photos!

dawn - OH MYYYYY! You did good! I wish you could photograph my munchkin. πŸ™‚

Nichole - Oh. My. Gosh. HOW ADORABLE!!!! My best friend Shannon Phillips is a photographer here in Tulsa… I’ve been watching your style evolve and you remind me so much of her style– which is INCREDIBLE! Way to go. πŸ™‚
PS. Shannon’s blog (Imago Vita Photography) is imagovitaphotography.net
You should check it out if you get some free time (I know, yeah right, right? ha!)
PS. I just LOVE your blog!!!… good stuff!

Keri - She is the cutest thing! Such great pics!

Angela - Simply STUNNING! My uterus is aching for a girl. I am far too outnumbered here. LOL

Mary Elizabeth - great pictures!!! wish we lived closer so your could snap some of maddie

ang - LOVE the picture with the pink door-plus the unusual dance pic. Perfection!!!

Nicole Q - I absolutely LOVE your photography . . . especially when it’s in places you don’t typically think of. Have you been on the http://www.momtog.com site?? I took my password off my blog finally if you need another blog to check out http://www.nicsdays.blogspot.com

Rhonda - Meg, You did a beautiful job of capturing Sydney’s personality! She is one of the happiest kids I’ve ever been around. I love the picture of Sydney and Shannon. Thank you for sharing.

Laura - that’s it. I am meeting you at LAX for some quick pics of my Annie in a tutu on the runway

pve - your pictures make me want to dance.
pve

Emily Loria - Hey Meg.
Sorry I’m MIA.
My hubby lost his job and there is a black rain cloud over our house right now.
I’m just waiting for the sun to come out again.
Thanks for checking in on me.
I am on facebook sometimes, do you facebook?
–emily

adrienneK - so cute!!! you do such a great job! scrap book retreat house?!??! oh my how awesome would a weekend there be?!?!?

Sarah - The pigtails! What I would do for pigtails again!

Ruth - these are INSANE!! i love the first one, with her mum… the bubble one, the jump one, the ribbons on her cute dress… and the depth in that black&white one against the tree is incredible! you have skillz, lady. and she’s gorgeous!

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - What a cutie!! Once again, absolutely gorgeous pics. You amaze me. I so wish I lived close to you. I would love for you to capture my girls.

Heather Mattos - my, you are a busy lady πŸ™‚

a thorn among roses - that little sydney is too much! do you think she has a career as a model too?? sooo cute!!! great shots in the dance outfit! love it!

Jennie - I love your blog, Meg! I have you linked on mine under “people I don’t know but wish I did.” πŸ™‚ These picstures are adorable – wanna come down to Nashville and do a shoot??

Shannon - Meg, I don’t even know where to begin!! You captured Sydney’s personality so PERFECTLY!! She is my sweet, fun loving, beautiful girl…and you captured it ALL!! Now, I need to get pics taken of my older two or they will begin to wonder why ONLY Sydney’s pictures are plastered all over the house!! πŸ˜‰ THANK YOU!!! YOU ARE AMAZING!!!

Jodi - Meg,
I LOVE LOVE LOVE your blog! Your style and creativity are inspiring beyond words. Your family and house are gorgeous. And I love U2 too!
Jodi

Natasha Pyle - How adorable! I tried to pick a favorite but I couldn’t b/c they are all soooo cute! Megan you do an awesome job!!
Can’t wait to show Owen (my son) since he is already crushin on her, or at least that is what his older brother tells him!

sandy toe - she is so very pretty~
sandy toe

Joanie - WOW! Those photos are beautiful! And Sydney is adorable! Love your blog!
Thanks for sharing.

Julie K. - Megan, these pics are amazing! Looks like you’re getting some good action in your photog biz. That’s awesome! Where do you find the awesome locations? I’m toying {very much toying} with starting a little something myself … eventually. Too scared right now. These are beautiful.

Kathy - Wow you take amazing pictures! She is so cute and i love her name too.

Lori Danelle - not that your others have been lacking, but I think these are your best yet! LOVE the dance costume ones, especially the one of just her legs and waist. Very artsy, good framing.
Maybe you’ve already seen them, but I have a link to Peekaboo Photography on my page that you should check out. Love their stuff and constantly going over there for inspiration when taking photos of my own kids.
http://loridanelle.blogspot.com

brooke - oh.wow.! she is gorgeous and so are the photos! the one of her jumping is absolutely perfect!

Jess - wow…pictures are great! love the costume shots! i think your pictures are getting better every time! thanks for sharing them! -jess

Gina - OMGoodness these are soooo cute! I LOVE LOVE LOVE the one in the doorway with her dance costume!!!

Mindy Harris - These are FANTASTIC! Sydneys’ an absolute DOLL. I may have to have me a girl!
Can’t wait for Wilder’s session in August!

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oh annie.

Dandilions2 

she burst into my bedroom this morning dressed in yellow from head to toe.
she shouts "MOM! wake up!  it's yo' big day! yo' gonna plant yo' gaw-den!"

later while i was trying to do some exercise 
(with a dog in my face and little annie laying on top of me….)
she grabs her leg and winces.
she says so seriously "i hurt my uncle."

we walked to the kids' school with waffle.
he feels free to use every yard as his toilet.
annie very honestly asks me, "why don't dogs have to wipe?"

i was digging in the garden (because it was my big day) 
and when i would find worms (she pronounces it like waums
i would call to annie and she'd come get them from me.
i could hear her talking to them "worm….meet worm.  worm…meet worm"
then shouted  "MOM! they like each other!  my worms are friends!"
and then she had four worms.
and she said "worm…meet worm, worm, worm."
four times in a row.

i wanted to just scoop her up and keep her four years old forever.
Dandilions
instead….she started bawling on the trampoline at 8:10
i took her to bed and i fell asleep in their bed while talby read the bedtime book.

kitchendoor - Four is so great πŸ™‚

kasey - she’s a doll.
and looks like you are having fun with Picnik.
xo

Lisa - IF ONLY 4…
HUGS FROM MAINE

jen R Sanctuary arts at home - It’s an awesome age…

pam - oh my. no doubt about it. she’s adorable.
what was your answer to “why don’t dogs have to wipe?”

Kelly - Just this very morning I was in line at Starbucks with my middle boy when a nice man in front of us asked him how old he was. When he answered that he was four, the man said he also has a 4-year old and we had a great little conversation about how fun 4 is. πŸ™‚

Christina - Good for you, for writing these things down! The pictures=keeping the four-year-old forever, at least in a small way. My oldest daughter and I are constantly telling my youngest (almost 2) to stop growing! She already doesn’t listen, though…

Ashley Ann - The polaroid look is so fun…we have some like that blown up as 12x12s hanging in the living room. I love the 70ish feel you did to them…great processing!

meaghan easterhaus - this is one of my favortie posts you’ve ever written!

anne - what special moments spent together in the garden.
“worm meet worm” … adorable.

Lori Danelle - I can’t wait until my girls start spouting out crazy little kid logic. We’ve already started filling a large glass container with funny things Charlie says, but right now they’re more funny within the context, not funny on their own. . .I’m looking forward to funny on their own! Until then, we’re just celebrating complete sentences!!
http://loridanelle.blogspot.com

gina - Isn’t four the best?!! I have and LOVE the book The memoirs of a four year old by Jamie Lee Curtis.

jerusalem - 4 is precious. absolutely. i have one of those myself and i could just eat him up!

Elisa - Cole speaks that language. It’s a crack-up. I just love the way he pronounces his wauds, I mean words. Sweet little kiddos!

Laura - something about little girls named Annie….
red shoes
worms
fists of flowers
very familiar!
our annies really are adorable. arent they?

maribeth - oh, how sweet! i also love 4 because of the innocence and use of language. i love how they misuse words, mispronounce words, make up their own words, and use big words. i have a 3 and 4 year old currently and i try to document all of these little pieces of joy before they are gone. annie is precious! just precious!

Patti - isn’t 4 just the greatest age?! i love the things that they think of and how they view the world. just the other day, my 4 year old anya said to me, “mommy, can i extersize [exercise] with you? i need to work on my muscle.” (as if she only has one.) have a great week!

Starnes Fam - Life is good. I love when we realize that in these moments.

Heather - I read your blog everyday. I LOVE it! This post is so fun. How did you do that to the photos? I think it is so cool. I have a 5 year old and would love to add that to some of his photos.

Kathy - OMG so is so cute!! But they grow up to be eye rolling, back talking, always online never, never picking up her clothes 15 year olds!! Sorry to burst your bubble!! Ah! but she is so cute really!

Cate O'Malley - Too cute! My six-year-old still mixes up the letters when he says animal… he says it as aMiNal. I smile every time I hear it.

sara's art house - LOVE the pictures. Your blog is always a bright spot in my day! You are one of my top ten blogs πŸ™‚

Keri - What a shame they have to grow up! That is pure sweetness.

a thorn among roses - love the shoes…i heart red shoes…and dandelions too!

Joy Cronauer...Joy at Home - now how did you do that with the photos???? so cute!

adrienneK - ok thats just TOO cute!!!

Jess - oh meg, i am wishing that i would have written down all the cute things my little ones would say. they grow up so fast. i’m off to take a stroll down memory lane…thanks for sharing that sweetness.

The Tulip Lady - And that is why the world goes round…for all the Annies of the world…for their mommy’s and daddy’s….if only we could all keep a little of our “four year old” self forever the world would be a happier place. Thanks for sharing. Love to you and yours…

Joy C. Tilton - Oh this is priceless! Fabulous four, never to be again so enjoy!
joy c. at grannymountain

mom - She is something else! Very heaut-wauming!

Leigh Ann - Precious four year old love!
Enjoy!

erica - she is way too cute! and sweet! what purity and innocence is in our young children. thank you for sharing πŸ™‚

Traci - so cute. love how little ones talk. it’s kind of sad when they master it and their cute little language is no more. love the way you did the photos. picnik?

pve - oh goodness, out of the mouths and bottoms of babes.
my son said (when he was your gals’ wee age)
“Mom, I just burped from my bottom” and if you knew him, some things do not change.
We have a good laugh each day! πŸ™‚

Shana - Yes. The things she has been saying lately completely crack us up. I think big B would put her in his pocket if he could. His little “annie” is so big now. πŸ™

Michelle - My baby girl is 4 too. But only for another week and a half. I’ll miss 4.
I love the photos. That one of her feet in the dandelions is stunning. The colors!!

Diane at Kidoozy - Gotta love planting a garden with ‘help’. I have 3 kids and two dogs, and once in a while the kids get a chicken out to help scratch around in the soil.
We’ll be doing that today. Of course I won’t get adorable pictures like you did.
Thanks for sharing.

sandy toe - How cute!
sandy toe

brooke - “i hurt my uncle” best line ever.ever. how sweet!! and yes i know what you mean about wanting to bottle them up right where they are…i am seriously going through this myself with my oldest…i am not ready for her to be seven and a second grader…i didn’t think motherhood would be so full of happy heartbreaks!

Sandy - She’s such a doll! Love the pictures!!

Trish - I have a five year old that can’t say his “r” sound either, and I think it’s so sweet to listen to him talk……we’ve already spent so much money on speech therapy just to get him to this point and now I’d like him to stay this way forever!
Why do they have to grow up?

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just messin’

with pics of my sunshine girl….

Sun1

Sun3

Sun2
when you click on this it looks better.
all i can think of is the muppets….janice…yeah like fer sure man.

Sun4

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none of these are "awesome" but it's fun playin' over at picnik making them all different.

Marcie Bowman - I love all your pictures! You find such creative places for your backgrounds. Are they just places around town that you have come across?

Katie Gonzalez - wow! beautiful photos!

Alicia Fulmer (Coach) :) - all pics are awesome when they are natural! You do a great job, My dad was a photographer for the Wichita Eagle and my step mom had a studio and I just want to tell you that after years of growing up around great photography you do a wonderful job!!!

Whitni - Hey! It’s me again. I’ve been following your blog for a while and I absolutely LOVE it! When I decided to have my own blog your’s was the first one I put as a blog that I follow. I know you’re super busy and don’t feel obligated at all but I was wondering if you maybe have a few extra minutes in the day maybe you could come by and check out my new blog? Maybe give me some pointers on how to get some traffic coming? I hope you have a wonderful week!
-W

Meredith - Fab photos! Speaking of photography, I came across a website for Lisa Cohen photography that I’m sure would be right up your alley. Reminded me of your style. Hope you’re having a fun week. Meredith xo

Joy Cronauer...Joy at Home - Hi! These are gorgeous! Your daughter is so pretty. Do you use photoshop? I have just started with blogging and tinkering with photoshop. How do you get your photos to upload so large? They look great like that!
P.S. I love your blog!

Jamie - Ooooh, that warm sunny look is just yummy. Great job.

Laura - are you kidding me? they are ALL awesome.
and did you have to join picnik to get the fun collages?

CherryTreeLane - I LOVE these….to me, they are each awesome….

Cassie - I LOVE PicNik! Its the best!

Jenn Thomas - She ALWAYS has a sweetness about her – you can’t help but smile.

Lori Danelle - It’s fun to play!! Love the pics.
http://loridanelle.blogspot.com

Traci - i love those meg. such a pretty little thing!!

Chasity - she is soo cute with her mouth full of new teeth!
have a great one.
chasity

Shannan - She’s beautiful and the light is gorgeous. And I love her shirt.

sara's art house - Great pictures! And I LOVE picnik!!

brooke - she is so adorable and all of the photos look great! picnik is my favorite….cross process is usually the first tool i go for…love it! hope you had an awesome weekend!!

pve - love those pearly whites.

Kathy - I disagree they are all awesome….and like the others she is a mini you.

Heather - Beg to differ – they are all awesome! Beautiful colors and light and character:)

Melissa - She looks a lot like her mama!

Lorilee - The photos are awesome! I can’t wait for school to be out for the summer, so I will have some time to try playing with my photos more!
Blessings,
Lorilee

Christina - That first picture looks so much like you! Oh, I’m not the first person to say that.
So fun.

Erica - SHE LOOKS JUST LIKE YOU!!! TOTALLY!!! (with a little bit of Annie!) VERY ADORABLE!! πŸ™‚

clare - The Muppet reference is awesome! She really does look like her in that pose. She is such a cutie, and Annie is her little clone.

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italy & emry

aren't those the cutest names?!!

italy turns one year old this week.
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and she's learning to walk.
(you need to click on that picture…i love the joy on her face…freedom!)

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they are all too cute.
emry was so ready for me…ready to smile.

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i just loved every one of their pictures.

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emry got a treat from me for being so good…he opened it right away.
instant smiles.

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these next three are my favorites….

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jenae and phil…thank you!
i had a really good time.
i hope you love these as much as i do.

Talia - I LOVE the black and white upside down boy one!! And I LOVE the name Italy- my husband thinks it’s too close to my name though, Talia (pronounced: Ta-LEE-a)

Sharla - Great photos. I love that one with the brick lining the window.

Lollipoplin - You are good… where do you go for these wonderful backdrops? Wish I lived by you… I’d love a family pic that looks like a music album!

princesslasertron - these are so cute!
when I have a baby I will drive down to KS and have you take pix

pve - wow, you sure know how to make everything look good whatever the name or country is called. love the clarity…
bellisimo!

Melissa - Great Pics!! I have an Emery too!! But mine is a sweet little pudgy 9 week old baby girl that I am feeding one handed as I type this!! ha!

gina - I love the black and white of all four but that last shot looks like a print ad! Gorgeaous photos- as usual. πŸ™‚

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - I wish you were close. I’d have you take our family’s pics. You are amazing:)

luisa - Wow, beautiful pics!
This family is wonderful.
just a little concerned about the girl’s name, it’s like for me calling my daughter USA πŸ˜‰
luisa from italy

Amy - great pictures, you are so talented

jimaiemarie - these are so great! I absolutely LOVE love the least one of them all walking, it’s so GOOD!

sarah - How can you be so good at so many things? These are awesome…LOVE the family ones…and those are the hardest pics to take…I know!!! Seriously beautiful!

Ruth - these are great! love the shadows in the last one.

Kathy - Amazing photos and what a cute little family!! Can you make me look 20lbs lighter in a photo????

Wendy - Can I just eat those kids up? They’re so adorable! As always, lovely pics!

Vera - Wow, that walking down the street picture – EVERY family should have that picture of themselves… *I* want that picture of *my* family!

Joni - GREAT photos! No wonder you loved them all! Simple and sweet…
*Ü*
XOXO
Joni

Jess - very cute family. great pics…meg, you really are awesome.

Sara - So darling! Those are great shots!

Christina - Beautiful family! Beautiful pictures! Beautiful location!
Is there a theme here?
Emry’s eyes are the color of the grass!
I, too, wish I were near you-I’d certainly be calling you up for some family photos!

Lori Danelle - These are great! You’ve gotten really busy, really fast! Good for you!!
I have a problem now though! I’ve been telling Gina Dreher that I need her to take photos of my girls if I’m ever home long enough (I’ve known her since she was something like 8), but I’m really loving your stuff as well! Geez! Both perhaps? πŸ™‚
http://loridanelle.blogspot.com

Angela - Those are the greatest pictures (of someone other than my own wonderful kids) ever! LOL
I wish my three-year-old would smile like Emry does for the camera; he is a stinkpot and gets crabby. Kids…..

Trish - You are the BOMB! Wow I’m with Candice… I live in Michigan, but Kansas here I come πŸ™‚

Amber - last one is my fav!!! great work.

Candice - so beautiful, I live in California but I think it might be worth it to come there if my pictures looked anything like these! So cute, and fun!

CherryTreeLane - These are dynamite! Love the last one!

Tess S. - gorgeous photo’s! any chance you’d fly to cleveland to snap some photo’s of my family?

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visitors

we have visitors today and tomorrow.

Rivfest1

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(above photo taken by lauren)

Rivfest2

my mom, sister and her family came to hear some music last night and hang out.
and at riverfest…some of our friends came too…it was a party….so loud!
good times.

i think the donut shop and a thrift store will be part of our friday.
random facts:
1.  i have taken 1162 photos this week.
     it's been a busy one.

2.  i just found out that school gets out for summer on thursday!
     i thought it was friday.
     i just lost my very last day to fake my sanity.

3.  we are flying to california in 12 days.
     the whole fam-damly.
    can i say that?  is that inappropriate?  sorry.
     my kids are PUMPED to go on a plane….asking me lots and lots of questions..no idea what to expect.
business facts:

1. i AM re-opening my etsy shop in june.
    i keep sneaking up to craft when i should be doing other things 
    like clean or cook or care for my family.

2. i AM taking pictures for anyone….locally…even if i don't know you…yet.  
    we'll get to know each other. (sing with me…getting to know you, getting to know all about you)
    so if you were wanting to ask me…now you know.  
    let's do it!
    email me at cdduerksen@yahoo.com for more info.

can you tell it's late?
do i seem loopy?
it is.
i am.
12:54.
i need some sleep.
i have a donut in my near future.

jaye - Hi…My daughter (a budding photographer) and I enjoy looking at your blog…I love the pictures…so bright and colorful…I love reading your writing…so down to earth and humorous…so honest…I LOVE the fact that you used the term “whole fam damly”…my Dad said that all the time as I was growing up…LOVE IT!!!

Anna - I live 3 hours from you…I am trying to talk my husband in to driving out there for pics sometime in the future. I hope it works! πŸ˜‰

Susan - It’s so fun to read your blog because I’m from Wichita and was just there last weekend when River Fest kicked off! I originally found your blog because I saw pictures of your little girl’s room somewhere…not on your blog…were they featured somewhere? Anyway, I loved that room. The one that has the “READ” on the wall.
I adore your house and it’s fun to see pictures from my old stomping grounds! It makes me wish we could move back there (we’ve tried…no luck).
Anyway, just thought I’d say hi!
Susan

the tulip lady - Ahhhhh, lady, you crack me up! Have a happy day out there!

Keri - You’re coming this way?! North, South, or Central? Let me know if you need a break from that fam-damly and we can meet for coffee. And donuts, too. I’m easy. πŸ™‚

Laura Moffat - Thought I would drop by and say “hi.” I love reading your blog and looking at your pictures. You are always so inspiring and honest. Love it. Thanks. You make me smile πŸ™‚
On a totally unrelated note, I noticed that you took your “I love preggos” link off the side and I’m pretty sure I know why. lol. πŸ™‚ Don’t blame you there! I found it on your site and have been following his weekly pictorial. The pics and documentation really are cool. Such a great idea.
Have a great trip! Hope you get SOME rest!

ang - Love Riverfest! Haven’t been for about 15 years!! Druber’s Donuts?? What a weekend. I’m so jealous!!!

Ashley Ann - Going public on the offer for pictures…get ready for a crazy FULL inbox! You made a lot of people very happy with that post..way to go, congrats!

CherryTreeLane - I always have a donut in my future.

jamie - Riverfest looks like a Blast. California has been Beautiful the last few weeks. Im sure you all will have a Great time. We have what they call June Gloom in June! What the Heck is that you ask? Kinda foggy, hazey weather, keeps it cool though. Have a Great weekend with your family, we have a few more weeks of school but it is coming so quickly. Jamie

Patti - it’s lovely in california right now…it’s warm and sunny. so, set that iso to 100 on your camera! πŸ™‚ hope you have a lovely weekend and a great visit to my part of the world!

Laura - where in California? Will you come take my kids pictures???????

Alyssa - Wish I lived closer and you could take photos of my kiddos..I would so want to be hanging out with you…forgeting the things like moving up cermonies and laughing…You are a good Mom….You are funny when you are loopy and not so loopy. Enjoy

Brittany - Oh, how I wish we lived closer so you could take some photos of my growing family, but, we are actually a whole country apart so…not gonna happen!
But, I love your blog. It is truly my favorite! All-around best ever, full of stuff I love πŸ™‚

Candice - Your comming HERE to Cali, where are you visiting sorry if thats not appropriate to ask, I live in Orange County, but I grew up in Long Beach they have some great things to see if you are going to be near there, Aquariums, Historical Sites, the BEACH! I have some great recomendations if you need some even for great cheap food spots! I hope you have a great week and that the flight goes smoothly.

Sarah - Have fun on your trip. Can’t wait to see the pictures!

Lori Danelle - That donut had better be from Druber’s or I will be very upset!! Please get a peanut butter knot and think of me. Unless you know of a way to ship it to me with it still being edible once it reaches my end!
Also, very jealous of RiverFest. I should get my family to KS for it some year. . .I think the girls would enjoy it. . .and me!!!
http://loridanelle.blogspot.com

Starnes Fam - My mom used to say, “fam damily” all the time. Love it!

Elisa - Kids on planes- always a good time! Actually it really isn’t that bad. I have never flown with all 4, (that will happen next month) but my other 3 are frequent fliers. My oldest used to get really panic-y so now I always take dramamine with me.
Have fun!

MGF - There are not enough hours in the day.

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - Busy week…take a breathe, grab that donut and enjoy your company. Can’t wait to see the pics from California. I love California…so jealous:)

Jenny - Hi! I have never posted, but I have read your blog for awhile now. (I love it!) I just wanted to give a helpful hint for the plane ride to California. We just traveled there a few weeks ago with three kids ages 6 and under. The best thing was for everyone to wear slip-on sandals so in the crazy, hurry-up security line at the airport, where they made even the one year old take off her shoes, it is easier. =) Hope this helps!

Ruth - Ever thought about moving to the UK…? Schools don’t finish til nearly the end of July! πŸ˜‰

Michelle - Love your pictures – they are some lucky Kansans to be able to tap into your talent!

Jess - Looks like a lot of fun. Flying with kids…good times. It’s so fun watching them experience things for the first time. Hope all goes well. Etsy…YAY! I was wondering if you were going to open it back up!!! I didn’t get to order anything last time, sorry. I’m saving up right now.

Sandy - also meant to say – good picture of Lauren (glad she went!)
and super cute picture of the little guy plugging his ears πŸ™‚

Sandy - “fam-damly”…my mom used to say that all the time (and not at all inappropriate). She’s been gone for 17 years. Thanks for bringing the memory back. πŸ™‚

Melanie - Where & why are going to California? I LOVE California. We have been out there twice. Big Sur, Carmel, Santa Barbara, the wine country, San Francisco….it is all wonderful. Have fun.

sandy toe - Your daughter is so cute in her polka dot dress! I love how you dress them…so child-like and fun!
sandy toe

Crystal - the whole fam-damly….that makes me laugh. πŸ™‚ We got your package…thanks so so much. πŸ™‚ Let me know how much I owe you, you fabulous lady you! πŸ™‚

adrienneK - how fun! “fam-damly” is HILARIOUS!!! i would like to know how flying goes as we will be flying soon with kiddos as well BAH!!!
oh and annie’s green dress is way too cute!!!

Kathy - One year the same thing happen to me except the last day was a half day and I forgot and never showed up to pick up my kid. Oops till I got a nice phone call at work where are you? So glad she is old enough to walk home!! Have fun in Cali!

brooke - riverfest looks f u n! and i too thought our school went through friday but uh nope only wednesday! i swear they switched that up on us…i know somewhere i read friday…it’s okay by me though because that friday night i fly the girls out to spend four weeks in arizona with c’s parents and then up they’ll go to utah to spend two to three more with my dad….so ummm…you can say i {slightly} look forward to these summer months alone…however usually c is here to enjoy them with me…but i have my girlfriends and nyc to look forward too…
have an awesome time in california and i wish i lived close enough to have you do family photos for us…we have never had them done and i absolutely love your work…but you already knew that πŸ˜‰

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madison

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she had the biggest eyes…..i was loving them!

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we blew lots of kisses.
don't you love an air kiss from a baby?

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check out their matching eyes….so cool.
she was sticking very close to mama.
very close.

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"hold you"

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the little tongue…i love that as much as i love little baby teeth. 
and this…the full palm feeding method.
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her M shirt and birthday tutu were too cute!
to keep her happy daddy gave her his cell phone.
doesn't that just scream 2009?!  
it's like history right there in your family portrait.
then they played a song for her on the phone….a song that madison downloaded accidently….twice.
it was soulja boy.
how funny is that?

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thanks jalayne and jarod. 
she did good for how chilly it was…and meeting a complete stranger in a field…after a long car ride.
πŸ™‚

Beth - I just laughed out loud in my office. I can just hear Madison’s parents trying to explain how their baby downloaded soulja boy…twice! :0

brianna winter - Great Pics!!!
I LOVE Madison!

Cate O'Malley - So wish you lived close enough to take pictures of my own cuties. πŸ™‚ Great snaps!

I. Unruh - I personally know this family & Yes they are Wonderful.. Inside & Out. That Maddie is a sweetheart.

courtney - I love the high chair!!!! Where did you find it?

Ashley - I love her cute sweet eyes!

Liz - Awwwwww, what a sweetie pie! You capture her little personality beautifully πŸ™‚

callie grayson - fantastic shoot~
i love your photography, you always catch those precious moments!!

Ashley Ann - Great pictures. I love that leafy background you get to use all the time…so beautiful!

sandy toe - Such a perfect age of pure cuteness!
sandy toe

Beth - Adorable little girl and what sweet pictures! The high chair is great – what a find!

Heidi Jo the Artist - I meant to say wonderfully! πŸ˜‰
Heidi Jo the Artist
My Shop ~
http://swirlsofcreativity.etsy.com
My Blogs ~
Swirls of Creativity’s Purple Thursday ~ Every Thursday!
http://swirlsofcreativity.blogspot.com
Reducing, Reusing, & Recycling
http://greenresolution.blogspot.com
Our Journey as a Christian Homeschooling/Unschooling Family
http://briobridge.blogspot.com

Heidi Jo the Artist - Such a cutie! You captured their family wonderful! πŸ™‚
Heidi Jo the Artist
My Shop ~
http://swirlsofcreativity.etsy.com
My Blogs ~
Swirls of Creativity’s Purple Thursday ~ Every Thursday!
http://swirlsofcreativity.blogspot.com
Reducing, Reusing, & Recycling
http://greenresolution.blogspot.com
Our Journey as a Christian Homeschooling/Unschooling Family
http://briobridge.blogspot.com

Christy - She is cute! Love that tutu shot!

Wendy - Love the two little teeth! And the whole-hand feeding. I miss having a baby around…

pve - some things never change
full palm feeding (me)
tongue out (me)
for the love of letters
tutus
babies
I just love your photos.
pve

Tara - Hi Meg, this is my first time commenting but I always check your blog, but when you put the picture up of this cutie and then wrote Hold you, my heart melted, my son son’s this all the time and it makes me smile! you are an amazing photographer and so talented, creative! wow! I love coming here…ok, off to sit in the back round again!

Lori Danelle - Very cute! Was the high-chair yours or theirs? Very unique. I like!
http://loridanelle.blogspot.com

anne - gorgeous family and little one!
great shots too!

a thorn among roses - love it!! her eyes are amazing!!!!

Lindsey - What a gorgeous family! I love the pictures!

Joni - She sure is a cutie patootie! I love this lil’ peek at the baby “chiclet” teeth in the fifth photo…too CUTE!
(ALL OF THEM ARE CUTE!) I’d love to do what you do with children and babies…and would love to know how you got your business going! Could you do a post about that sometime, perhaps?
XOXO
Joni

Laura - I don’t think many of us would be happy after meeting a stranger in a field after a long car ride. Unless, of course, the stranger had coffee.

Shannon - As always, your pictures are amazing!!! I love how vivid the colors are! Madison is so cute…and that tutu!!?? πŸ˜‰

Chasity - hold you…..ohh, that takes me back~~both my babies said this one….soooo sweet!
she looks like a little fairie baby.

Jess - meg, you are awesome. great pics. yummy cutie pie.

Patti - awww…she’s just precious. how come i want another one now?! i blame you, meg. you and your reach-through-the-screen-and-squeeze-those-baby-cheeks photos. those baby pheromones are killing me! thanks a lot!! πŸ™‚

Kim - Those eyes are amazing. What a beautiful family.

Lanny Stanard - Okay what a cute little family, Madison looks like she didn’t even mind πŸ™‚ Happy Thursday…
Lanny

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