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seven

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what a big day.
she opened grandma and great grandma's gifts in the morning.
she couldn't believe she got her own CD player….the hannah montana marathon can now begin!
annie and i picked her up for lunch.
we ate her favorite dinner….stuffed shells.  
and they got to drink POP at dinner!
she opened her presents from us (webkinz, littlest pet shop, hannah montana…what else?)
we sang happy birthday in the dark…always everyone's favorite job – turning off the lights.
we ate cake and ice cream.
then the 4 youngest kids climbed into the playroom bed 
and watched Journey to the Center of the Earth all cuddled up together….the whole time!
it was the cutest thing.

happy birthday talby-loo.
are you sure you seven already?

Jamie Sampson - She is adorable! Love the cupcakes and the candles on the cake! What a fabulous day.

amy j. - Such a sweet birthday girl! Her outfit was the best! I’m still a little bummed that you didn’t bring me something back from Braum’s… but at least I got a cupcake. πŸ™‚ She even left one on my desk for Sophie to have after school. Sweet, sweet girl.

Wendy - what a fun mom you are! i love the outfit and the cake! i hope you win the playroom contest. i think yours was the best! πŸ™‚

sara - happy birthday talby! love her outfit too!
thanks for sharing the fun! you inspire me to try & be a better mom everyday.

carissa - Talby is too too cute… AND that outfit MOM… really GREAT!
sounds like a PERFECT day!
have a super weekend!

Sandy - Your kids have the COOLEST birthday outfits! I’m jealous! Happy Birthday Talby – from Troy, Ohio!

Trina - Can I celebrate my birthday at your house? I am 31 and this sounds totally perfect to me… and love the marshmallows on the cake.. brilliant. . happy weekend!

Ashley - I just love that shirt! Too cute! Happy Birthday, Talby!!!

Rachel - What a great birthday…and Journey to the Center of the Earth…cool movie.
May I ask where did you get that outfit…I must have for my little LOVE!!!

milly {elephants & redwoods} - Those candles are SO SO SO COOL. How awesome are you? Love it!

milly {elephants & redwoods} - Those candles are SO SO SO COOL. How awesome are you? Love it!

Lisa - Happy Birthday Talby!
Funny just last night I was thinking about what it would be like to be a mom. Then the image of Annie in her birthday outfit came to my mind and I smiled. I vow to let my kids wear such fun and special outfits on their birthdays too. I love the cupcakes.
take care,
Lisa

traci - HAPPY BIRTHDAY TALBY!!! what an adorable birthday outfit on a beautiful young lady.

Sara Ito - I LOVE her outfit!!!

Jessica - Tell Talby “happy birthday” from me. I LOVE her birthday outfit. So cute! You are going to have to teach me how to make me for Cora some day.

art cant hurt - Love, love, LOVE her outfit!!!
My daughters are going to be so jealous when they see this post!
Now I’ll have to become a Meg-a-mom too!!!

MGF - What a fun cake, full of only the good stuff for kids: chocolate chips, marshmallows and sprinkles.

PamperingBeki - Awww Happy Birthday to her!!
(and she lost a tooth recently, no?)

Candy - Your kids are the cutest and it seems like someone is always having a bday! πŸ™‚

princess lasertron - awww! happy birthday talby!
I want to commission a skirt from you! I dont even care what colors you use. It’s so awesome πŸ™‚

Aubrey - Oh, and where do we find those “Happy Birthday” candles?

Aubrey - Did you do a tutorial on those shirts that I missed? How do you come up with those awesome birthday outfits? They are so stinking cute. (Does Lauren have one? πŸ˜‰ ) ANd that cake? So fun. And easy-looking. Can I say again you have to be the coolest mom ever? How do you keep up with 5? I can barely handle it with 3!

Sharla - Great pics – love her outfit! You’ve inspired me to make a “2” shirt for my nephew’s bday next week and I’m going to make “B” shirts for my boys.

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thinking….

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this weekend a friend challenged me to live differently.

they are struggling through the hardest time in their life with a child who is sick.
he pointed out their new way of thinking.
he said they are greeting every morning with a huge smile and saying
"you're ALIVE today!!!"
they are so grateful for each and everyday they have with him.

i just keep thinking of how much of every single part of my day is routine. 
and everyone and everything could be feeling very UNspecial most of the time.

why do we wait till our child or spouse is sick to live this way?
why don't we think this everyday….I AM ALIVE!
and YOU are ALIVE!!

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i am reminding myself to be grateful….for everything.  
to give my love without conditions.
and you know what?
it's HARD.  (just keepin' it real here people)

these are cupcakes for talby's class.
nothing to do with my thoughts other than i am so grateful to be a mother. 
i GET to celebrate her special day with her.
i GET to make cupcakes and birthday cakes.
and i GET to eat lunch at Braum's with a birthday girl on a wednesday afternoon.
it is a privilege.
a true honor.

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go hug your kids real tight and shout "YOU"RE ALIVE!"

i have a feeling a certain 13 year old will push me away….but i still have to try right?  

Daisy Cottage - I cannot put into words how precious your blog is – every photo, every word, every bit of it – just precious.. you have a true gift and we are very blessed to receive it with each visit here. Thank you Meg!
xo,
Kim

bmommy - Beautiful

karey m. - had to kirtsy. thanks for this.
http://www.kirtsy.com
{found you via misadventuresofkellyandkelly.wordpress.com}

Mike and McGee - It’s a wonderful attitude to have. My father is battling advanced neuroendocrine cancer. It’s very rare, and it is incurable. So far, he’s beaten the odds. When he was diagnosed just over three years ago, no one thought he’d live this long. Yet he’s still here. And still going strong. He joined us for Halloween to watch his only grandchild go trick-or-treating as a Pirate Princess. Every day that he’s here, we’re here, our child is here – every day is a blessing. πŸ™‚

Nancy - You have just spurred me on to write a blog that I’ve been contemplating — one about gratitude and being thankful. Since it is the month of Thanksgiving, it would be most appropriate. Many thoughts have been swirling in my head as of late, especially given all the news on the tv (sad economic state we’re in).
Thanks for this post. And yes, most days it is difficult for us to make a conscious effort to be thankful for the routine and mundane.

Connie - Keep hugging that 13 year old…I went thru those days with my last child who didn’t want hugs in his teens. Now at 19, he comes home from college and give me hugs. Thanks for your encouragement to LIVE and rejoice in it! I just found your blog and love your photography. What kind of camera do you have? Connie

liz - great post. thanks for the reminder! cute cupcakes too.

Jenn Thomas - No matter what happens – he will continue to touch so many of us in so many ways.

Lee Ann - We all do it. Just the other day I was so depressed about who knows what. I just kept thinking about all the people I know who are sick and or losing loved ones. I was literally saying to myself “get it together! Can’t you just be happy because your family is all here and healthy?” I really couldn’t get it together. Why do we do this?
Beautiful cupcakes!

carissa - flipping fabulous… you said that perfectly!
love you girl… we’re ALIVE!!!!!!
i am going to go to the kitchen & dance around like nuts with those girlies right now! πŸ™‚ thanks
GOD BLESS your friend’s little girl… look she is making a difference!

meredith - Beautiful, faithful girl. Lauren won’t always pull away.

Amanda - So sorry about the family that is suffering right now… if you want to send me and email (or just post it on your blog?) with first names, we can sure get them on a prayer chain or I can just really be praying myself. You know the power of prayer can change anything…
Yummy looking mini cakes BTW.
God bless-
Amanda

Jen - Hi. I used to work with your Aunt Jan…I am totally hooked on your blog. Thanks for the reminder – helps me put things in perspective.
p.s. – how did you make the frosting for the cupcakes…it is beautiful. My son’s birthday is coming up and he would love them…please share.
Thanks, Jen Smith, Overland Park, KS

Kate - Howdy!
Well, (I am writing the same message to brown eyed fox, jane says, and whatever πŸ™‚ ). So… I just relocated to AZ. First move ever out of TX. Now that I have my children fully adjusted (I think / hope), I think it has knocked me off my feel, how much I miss Texas.
In the middle of my full fledged pity party yesterday, I decided to go to Jane Says ~ that always cheers me up! I happened across your blogs and I have to say ~ they will be weekly (hopefully more like daily) stops during my day ~ just to smile.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for putting your stories out there and encouraging me ~ just a lost girl from Texas πŸ™‚
Sincerely,
Kate
SongsKateSang

Diana Cornielle - Thanks for posting this and sharing it with us. A reminder that our loved ones are alive, well and loved. And don’t worry….I will also get a hug rejection by my 16 year old! Lol….that’s ok, though because she’s know I still love her and I am thankful for her!

Andria - Meg,
You have no idea how God used you this very minute. I am an assistant district attorney & 3 college age kids were killed in my jurisdiction in a horrible car accident. I just realized one of them is my eye doctor of 15 years son. I was already upset but this devastated me. I had to shut my office door and burst out crying. I wen to your blog just to cheer myself up b/c your blog always makes me happy.
What do I see? Beautiful, colorful pictures & a message about appreciating life & your loved ones!!!! God is so good. He knew I needed that word from Him in this moment through you.
Please don’t ever stop blogging about your life, you are ministering to people in ways you never even know when you post. Thanks from a girl in Texas who wishes right now, I could come to your house for a cup of coffee, a good cry, and some laughter.
Thanks for always keeping it real, as you say.

Sandra - So, so true. What a wonderful reminder from your friend. And how great that you are then passing it on, so that we can ALL be reminded!
Happy birthday to your birthday girl!

Erin - I have been reading your blog for awhile. I love it. Today I was moved to share my thoughts about your beautiful words. My husband & I lost our 17 year old son James, almost 2 1/2 years ago in an accident—just 12 days after we returned home with our adopted daughter from China. He was the second of our four sons. Handsome, smart, kind, incredibly funny, and so very loved.Any parent would be grateful to call him their own. I sometimes imagine what it would be like to see him round the corner of my kitchen. I sometimes see him in my dreams. We were just crazy about him. I can, with all of my heart, vouch for your words. I also believe in heaven. I know that the undying love of our adored children, our parents, our husbands, can find it’s way back to us from there…

Trina - This is SO true…. and a much needed reminder! Thanks!
ps- those cupcakes look sooooooo good! What kind of frosting is that .. it looks amazing!

a thorn among roses - i am and i am sooo grateful. i too have friends whose daughter is sturggling (actually w a terminal illness) and i am reminded how blessed i am to have 4 of my own kiddos…thanks for the reminder. and honestly, i thought the cupcakes were perfect…

Tausha - Our families are the most precious “things” we have. There is nothing like a tragedy to make one realize what is truly important.
Hug your kids often. Kiss your husband more. If your parents are still around and available-call them, or better yet, if you can-hug them and tell them thanks. You never know when you wont have the chance again.
(sorry to be so sappy-go read my blog and you will know why.)

meaghan easterhaus - thanks, really…xoxo

Traci in Virginia - Thank you for the reminder. During the hustle and bustle of daily life sometimes we forget to remember the many blessings of everyday. My kids are asleep and you make me want to go and wake them up…almost : ) Maybe just kisses and hugs while they are sleeping.
Have a great tomorrow!

Staci - Such an awesome post Meg. So true…about deciding to actually “live” once something tragic happens πŸ™ Last February my sweet husband was diagnosed with cancer. Hearing those words…our life was swept up in a whirlwind and I could NOT gain control. And then, I just let go…I had a peace that God would just handle everything. And he did. I get goosebumps just thinkin about it again. EVERYDAY before my feet hit the floor I am whispering an extra prayer that he is still with me…us…our family. I know this is a long post, and I am sorry…one last thing…when we were going through all of this last February…I went to turn the page on the calendar and it hit me like a ton of bricks…we may not be guaranteed tomorrow. I have just always turned those calendar pages or marked off dates so nonchalantly. BUT, to keep it real…it IS VERY hard to not get caught up in the mundane. Okay, I should just stop…I could go on and on…let’s just say…I needed to be reminded and your post was just the kick in the pants I needed πŸ™‚ THANKS! Yummy cupcakes πŸ™‚

Sarah - I’m Alive, and I want one of those delicious looking cupcakes!!
Wonderful post. I’ll try my best to keep this in mind daily.

Rachel - Our family is going through a rough time right now financially but you know what we have each other and that is all that matters. Another great post Meg!!!
Cheers to you and your family!

Holly - Oh…such a wonderful reminder. Thank you for this inspiring post. You’ve opened my routine-blinded eyes.
Those cupcakes are making my mouth water. =-)
xoxoxoxoxo

Erin - I’m not sure how I stumbled on your blog, but what a wonderful post! Thank you for that. πŸ™‚

sara's art house - Just catching up on your CUTE pics and happiness going on at your house! I love your blog πŸ™‚

Lanny Stanard - Thank You Megan, yes I’m alive! now my I please have a cupcake!
BiG hUgS! LaNnY

Aubrey - You’re leaps and bounds ahead of me. Today I wanted to send my spawn right back out of this life. Until of course, they had some extra sweet moments. I’m glad they’re still little and easily forgive and still like me after I scream and yell at them.
I so wish I could reach throught the monitor and snag one (or five) of those cupcakes. You’re such an awesome mom. Lauren will like you again. I started liking my mom again at about 17. πŸ˜‰

Michelle - Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us today…I really needed this kind of optimism to lift my spirits. You are AWESOME!

Candice - simply beautiful, the words and the cupcakes.

Jen - Thank you for this oh-so-important reminder.
β™₯Jen
As always, beautiful pics!

MGF - As a Peds RN I get a reminder twice a week every week to be thankful as a mother. But still reading your post,makes me want to be better. I use to be part of a MOPS group which uplifted me twice a month. I need to re-find that thing in my life to be a constant reminder.

traci - what a wonderful post meg. you are so right!! i am so sorry for that family though. it is hard to live that way – to love without conditions. i am going to work on that too. and everytime i think of that i will also picture those wonderful cupcakes. hey, hug lauren hard and don’t stop!!!!

Deb - Our church just read the Shooks’ book One Month To Live and did its own study to go along with it. The concept of grabbing each morning is so renewing. Just today I was almost grumbling about taking out the trash, when I thought, “Lord, THANK YOU that I have the strength to do this!” It’s such a paradigm shift.

Carrie - lovely, lovely post. so very true too.
you definitely still have to try… because when she has a 13 year old of her own, she’ll remember your attempts and she’ll keep trying too.
hugs

Gwyn - Thanks for this post.
It made me cry. I have been agonizing over things that have happened that I cannot change instead of looking for the opportunities in TODAY!

Blanca - My thoughts exactly. Last night I had an argument with my 14 year old over homework. She waited until the last minute to tell me she needed craft supplies for a project due today. Can you believe that? Needless to say it was a big argument and I felt horrible this morning and apologized to her and hugged her. She even let me lay with her for a little while and she also apologized to me. I hope there will be more hugging between her and me.
Great Post.

Juliann - Thanks, Megan for that reminder. I just got so angry at one of mine today and that was perfect for me to read today. I need to let go of the “small stuff” and love my kiddos unconditionally…like God does me.

Holly - Oh,Meg, how true! I am reminded often because I came home one day at age 17 and my mom was lying in the kitchen floor. I saw her struggle for breath. The paramedics wouldn’t let me ride along so I followed. I sat an hour and a half waiting for family to arrive. It ended up she passed away in the ambulance and they could not revive her at the hospital- they couldn’t tell me because I was underage. How precious each moment is. My mom told me daily she loved me. She hugged me when she saw me and was met by a stiff board. Lauren wants it even if she can’t show it- trust me, I KNOW!

Beth - Great post — great reminder. Thanks! I hope Talby has a wonderful day πŸ™‚

Steph @ Problem Solvin Mom - I have been keeping a gratitude journal, and it really helps, so much more than I EVER would have expected, to keep my mind right and my perspective positive. I lost my father in my mid 20’s unexpectedly, and that is a constant reminder to me – live it up now, while we are able!
I journal my gratitude every Sunday, I know myself well enough to realize I work better with some accountability πŸ˜‰
{{hugs}}
Steph

Sandy - Thanks for your post, Meg! Even though my 15 year old son likes to act like he hates when I hug him and tell him I love him, I have to believe he enjoys every minute of it.
Your cupcakes are amazing!!
You must have wonderful time management skills – I lack those. Big time!

PamperingBeki - That’s a great message!
I’ve found this same thing since I started the Fingerprint Friday series on my blog. I have my eyes open more everyday to recognize God’s fingerprints everywhere. Now that I make an effort to look for them, I’m amazed at how often I see them!
We are blessed to be alive and so blessed by the beauty in something as simple as Braum’s or cupcakes.

Darby - Oh Meg! I’ve been having similar thoughts!! What a FABULOUS post. If your cuppies taste as good as they look you’ll have a lot of little people who will be thankful they’re alive to eat them! I know I’d like one!! Or two! Or maybe even three! Thanks for reminding me that tomorrow is never guaranteed!! Everyone around here will get extra hugs and smooches from ME.

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amanda

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thank you amanda and david for asking me to take your family pictures.
your babies are adorable!
i kept saying to myself that day "i POP out!" like taylor did.  
his face is so funny in this one.  
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i really enjoyed meeting you both face to face.
thank you.
your kids were great.
i can't wait for taylor in my sunday school class!

any of you other local mamas want to get your christmas pictures done soon?
call me….it will be fun.
just ask amanda.  :)

melissa @ the inspired room - Will you come out to the NW anytime soon? I’d LOVE you to take my son’s photo. Pretty please? πŸ™‚ {sulking}

kristine - hi! i’m jennifer’s sister. we live in waldo/brookside, MO. where are you? made your stuffed shells the other night and my dh loved it! is it weird having strangers write?

kristine - hi! i’m jennifer’s sister. we live in waldo/brookside, MO. where are you? made your stuffed shells the other night and my dh loved it! is it weird having strangers write?

Nancy - Darling family. That little boy reminds me of an old farmer man in that first photo.

Sandra - Wonderful pictures of a darling family. Well done.

Ashlie - I love these pictures! They are such a beautiful family and the looks on the little boy’s face are priceless. So funny! You really should set up shop, ya know! You’ve got mad skills, girl!

Trina - Hi Meg.. just wanted to let you know that you one of your pics is featured and your site mentioned over at Absolutely Beautiful Things today!
http://absolutelybeautifulthings.blogspot.com/
Have a great one!
xTrina

Tracy - Great photos as always, Meg! Wish I were local to have you take ours too but oh well. Have a great day and thanks for sharing! :o)

Ann Marie - Wow! I just found your blog and its great. Such awesome photos and fun stuff to read.

Ashley - Meg, those are great. I love the little guy’s face in the second picture. I am warning you if you keep offering to do pictures for people, laundry will will take over that awesome house of yours – I speak from experience. Really, you did a fantastic job with those I am sure they LOVED them!

Liz - Aw Meg! These pictures are wonderful! Can you come take pictures of Mabel? πŸ™‚

Rachel - Great pics!

Brooke - LOVE THEM!! That first one is amazing…I would love to have someone as talented as you take our family photo!! Sadness is we have never even had a family photo taken!! Ridiculous…and you should see on our blog some photos I took of the ladies this weekend…I need a new camera! If we ever get out to Kansas I will definitely be begging for you to use your genius talents on my family!!

amy - And to think… I turned down the opportunity to have our family pics taken by you this weekend. So many of your loyal fans must think I am crazy! (I do still want pictures taken, though. How about we wait until you have your house all pretty and decorated for Christmas and then we’ll come pose at your house!) πŸ™‚
Amanda must be thrilled. You did an amazing job. As always. πŸ™‚

carissa - oh… would i ever LOVE for you to take our Christmas picture… FUN for sure! what a treat!
what a darling family they are… and you’re right… his little face is so cute in that first one… too funny!
great job Meg!!!!! πŸ™‚

Shelly H. (in Overland Park, KS) - You’re pictures are so great!!
Where exactly are you located? We would love to have you take pictures… but we are east of Lawrence =)

Aubrey - I wish I were local so you could take our pictures. But then, I might end up so embarrassed because my kids tend to be naughty for picture-taking. I can’t even bribe them.

Shana - That’s what I’m looking for! Of course, Jace doesn’t want to be held and Kaete really has outgrown playing “peek” but the pics are beautiful.
Amanda…the kids have grown so much – they are so cute and funny!

Lorilee - Meg,
What a beautiful family! Your photos are awesome! That little girl is precious in that hat. I am partial to little girls, since I have 2 boys!
Blessings,
Lorilee

a thorn among roses - seriously…those eyes!!! great shots….love how plyful they are!!!

Darby - The first pic is my FAV! I have 2 of those chairs {from my great-grandmother’s porch} in our barn waiting to be sandblasted and painted… what am I waiting for!? You’ve inspired me! Great pics… so glad you shared them with us!!

PamperingBeki - What a beautiful family!!! And super fun pictures.
You got them just in time too. Now it’s all rainy and gray…

traci - meg those are awesome!!! the color is beautiful. they have got to be so happy with them. what an adorable family.

Staci - I wish I lived in Kansas!!! Awesome pictures of a very sweet family πŸ™‚ (Or at least your pictures make them look very sweet…I’m sure they are!)

jennifer - ooh! Wish I were local. But my sister is. I just might have to send her your way.
Ok, how stinkin’ cute is that little girl in that adorable pink hat?!
Beautiful pictures, as always, Meg!

Teresa - You really should do an iPhoto (or whatever program you use) “How-To”. You’re pictures always look amazing!

MGF - Great job.
I am sure the family is happy with their family pictures.

Amanda - I saw the title before all the pictures loaded and thought to myself…
“Meg takes such delight in the insights and humor through my comments that she is devtoing an entire blog entry to honoring me!”
Ha! lol just kidding. Those are great shots with a great setting and a beautious family. You got skills my dear!
Have a blessed day-
Amanda

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insulating

i have so much to post about….

but i have to help craig insulate the attic.
i am trying to not be a total brat but i am not sure if i am succeeding.
i know i should help willingly….so what is my problem?
i better try harder.
back tomorrow with some great family pics i got to take this weekend.
amanda they were great!

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the three big kids were so embarrassed to walk the dog this weekend.
hilarious.

MGF - Waffle looks he everything is fine….The is too funny

meredith - Just when I had convinced the kids that they didn’t need a dog, they looked up your blog and have fallen in love with Waffle. Even my 2 year old has been yelling “Gog, Gog, mine?” If the Halloween costume wasn’t adorable enough, the cone has clinched the deal. Hope the insulating wasn’t too burdensome in the end. Maybe you could have an attic picnic when it’s done?

Lorilee - It looks so nice and cool there. It is 81 and humid here. Thankfully, we ARE getting some MUCH needed rain. I always love your photos.
Blessings,
Lorilee

Christine - Hi there!
I just found your blog today via La La Lovely Things and I am so glad I did! It’s so much fun to read and your photos are adorable.
Quick question, what kind of dog do you have? He’s so cute!

Pattie - I have tears rolling down my face I’m laughing so hard. I can picture the fight at your house to get them to walk the dog. Oh my gosh this is soooo funny!!!!!!!!

Art Cant Hurt - Meg, waffle is a doll! Absolutely a four-legged sweetie! It doesn’t matter how he acts because training and love will help him grow out of any bad habits. Enjoy the puppi-ess while you have it!
And it’s ok to be a “brat” sometimes! That’s our way [us “old” moms] of not forgetting OUR puppi-ness!
Take care!

carissa - look at ALL those leaves… my kiddos would LOVE that!
insulating… awe… what a special bonding time! HA! πŸ™‚
i’m impressed you’re helping… Craig is luckyyyyyy! πŸ™‚

Lanny Stanard - Yikes! look at all those leaves! can’t wait to see your picture’s and poor waffle… he still looks cute with that big old thing around his neck! Have fun in the attic…
Lanny :o)

sarah - guess that was really four questions… πŸ™‚

sarah - question (said in my best Dwight voice)
actually I have 2 of them:
how are your pictures always so crisp and bright? do you use photoshop or something else?
where did you find your wonderful swingset? do your kids love it?
Love your blog.

Kelly - why is it *so* hard to die to ourselves? It’s like once bratty feelings settle in, it is SO hard to kick them out. It feels impossible. I feel like I don’t know what to do except keep feeling them. And whatever I’m being bratty about is never as bad as I think it is. I’m trying to grow in this too. Kelly

a thorn among roses - love that sweet baby and her helping!!!

Laura - Aw!! Poor Waffle!!

Rachel - She is tooo cute! And Waffle…awwww!

traci - poor waffle. it is funny when they have those cones on. but then you feel bad laughing at them, but you can’t help it. that’s a lot of leaves for the kids to play in and rake up. cute pictures. i know what you mean, one day last week when roger wanted me to jump in the tractor and chisel, i was very cranky to him. didn’t want to at all, had other things i wanted to do.

traci - some of my FAVORITE pictures of all time are of my kids playing in the leaves…LOVE THEM. Your dog is growing crazy fast!!! Waffle is going to be HUGE..LOL
As for the attic…omgosh…I would be a bratt too. HELPING in the attic???? Just kill me now!!! lol

Sarah - I giggled when waffles was pink and now I giggle each time I see him in his cone. Poor thing πŸ™ I used to be a vet assistant and always felt so bad to put those on the poor animals. They either looked freaked out or embarrassed.
Waffles is one adorable dog though, whether pink or wearing a cone.

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i’d like one waffle cone please.

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HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA………………..

we thought he was clumsy before the cone.
oh my goodness, he has cracked me up.  
i do feel a bit sorry for him but it's just too funny.  
and he gets 4 more days of it!

Katie - LMAO! Seriously I just peed my pants laughing.
Found your blog today via another link and I have utterly fallen in love with waffles. I need to know where you live so I can come steal him πŸ™‚

melissa @ the inspired room - ROFL. HILARIOUS!!!!

deb meyers - Hi, Meg,
any way to write you? I am a regular reader, mom of 2, one is named Annie; and have a serious crafting question to ask. It involves Littlest Pet Shop and Puppy in My Pocket gift for my 6yo niece…
email me? dm1023@comcast.net

Jill - That dog is adorable… even with the waffle cone. πŸ™‚

Jill - Waffle is so stinkin’ cute…what kind of dog is he?

carissa - okay… that is a waffle cone with REALLY cute sprinkles on top!

Amanda - I know its just me but whenever your kitchen is in the shot I lose all focus. I Love your kitchen. I want to come and est in your kitchen. I want to cook lasagna inyour kitchen. Then leave you with the mess. KIDDING! he he
Oh yeah, sorry about the dog. πŸ˜‰
God bless-
Amanda

Teresa - Hi!
I found your website on StumbleUpon and I must say, your blog is adorable! Def. going in my bookmarks, I love your style, you’ve got a beautiful home!
Do you use any special filters for your pictures, the colors are always so vibrant. Love it!
-Teresa

Trina - That has to be one of the cutest dogs ever… is it some sort of doodle? What breed, might I ask?

Carly - Adorable! Not sure where you live, but do you have a restaurant called “Waffle House”? If so, this sweet dog takes that to a new meaning! πŸ™‚
Not sure how I stumbled about your site, but I’ve loved it. I want to be you when I grow up. Or perhaps live in your fun house. I won’t take up much space. I just love everything I see!!
Thanks for inspiring! I can’t wait to see your Christmas pics…
Carly Winborne

crystal - aaawww poor guy. that first picture is great you can see him pleading for you to take off the cone.

traci - Pooooooooooooooooooooor Waffle!!!! Gosh hes getting BIG!!! What a cutie. He needs that thing just because he got fixed??? Im confused?

a thorn among roses - sooo cute! what a sweet pup…and the cutest waffle cone i’ve ever seen!

Mallory Heffron - I feel so bad,,,,because I am laughing so hard at the I’ll have a waffle cone…

Andrea - While this cracks me up, it also answers the question I had before…”Did you take him to the vet still pink?” I want your dog!

Kelly - Seriously, y’all named your dog SUCH a cute name! Kelly

amy d - poor baby, tell him to pack his cone and come stay across the street with auntie amy, so you meanies won’t laugh at him! he is very cute though, with or without that awful plastic contraption. hang in there little guy πŸ™‚

Trish - Poor Waffle!!
He’s still pink and now he’s in a cone………
how much humiliation can the poor guy take??
he is stinkin cute though~

Leah - HAHA…good one!

Jenn Thomas - I would like sprinkles with my waffle cone – too funny – makes me giggle.

Lorilee - Awwww poor waffle! I think I have his sister, Honey! I guess I should post a photo of her on my site! He looks like he doesn’t mind it too terribly much!
Blessings,
Lorilee

jodi - haha. i’ll never look at a waffle cone the same way again.
have a great weekend meg!
jodi

Aubrey - Poor Waffle, neutered AND a cone. He’s so cute, even with the appendage.

Lanny Stanard - I’ll take a waffle cone please! what a sweet heart, our gus didn’t need to wear one of those! I’m glad and so is he!
Lanny :o)

Lee Ann - Oh the poor things when they have to wear those! I agree it is funny though. The best part was the title. How perfect that you named him that.

Denise - I saw a card in a shop recently that had a cat in a cone and the verse inside said, “anyone else feel like a martini?”
It cracked me up…I am a card maker and I actually bought a couple of them! Waffle is so cute and still looking slightly pink…

pam - I wasn’t expecting that picture when I saw the title of your post on my blog list…I broke out in laughter seeing your sweet ‘Waffle Cone’! xo
ps…my well wishes to Waffle!

kristin at prairie daze - okay, yes, this is funny.
waffle cone.
ha.

foreverfoldinglaundry - That first picture of him is the cutest thing ever! I love him!

Diana Cornielle - I think he’s still so cute! He’s a cutie patooty!

Staci - Is it true??? Do I get to be first in the comments!!
I’ll take a Waffle cone please πŸ™‚ Tooooo funny πŸ™‚

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friday business

waffle is at the vet getting neutered.  

right now as i write this.
poor waffle.

driving 5 kid & a big nervous dog to school in our horrible school traffic while listening to the Annie 
soundtrack is kind of like driving to a bus to CrAzyViLle.  
oh my goodness.
it felt a bit like Sixteen Candles….
all we needed was kazoos.  

i am full of randomness this morning.

check out this little goofball.

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my sweet silly girl.
man i miss having that color hair.  
when i was little i looked exactly like this…isn't that right mom?
she is Mini-Me.
i really miss my naturally blond hair.

forgot to show this last week…

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twinsies!  
micah shared his extra tigger costume with annie for preschool!
it was big time excitement around here.

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ms. kristin made pumpkin pie playdoh.
it smelled exactly like pumpkin.  it uses an entire container of pumpkin pie spice!
it was so cool.  it tastes terrible…because it's playdoh.  
i am sure many kids tried it just in case.
they pretended to make muffins and cookies.  it's so much fun in there!

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big plans for today:
cutting out a bunch of paper turkeys for my 3 year old sunday schoolers 
having coffee with a friend.
sewing another curtain.
cleaning up my kitchen (how does it get so gross so fast?)
and sorting all the laundry i folded.
watching some DVR-ed shows (i am 3 weeks behind on 3 shows!)

many of you asked about the chandelier in the girls' room.

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it's from IKEA.  
you can find it here but it's not available online.  
you have to get a cord kit also….super duper cheap.
i love this lamp.

oh how i miss IKEA.  
i wish i could walk through an IKEA today with naturally blond hair.  
HA.

happy friday.

Emilie - I don’t know if it is “electrically” (i made that up) safe… but I have that same lamp and all I did was put the chandelier up to the socket and then screwed the bulb in under it to hold it in place… No cord kit! I posted a picture of it in my hallway re-do post a while ago… I LOVE that thing and totally need to buy more… at only 17 bucks how can you go wrong?

Rachel - Definately need that lamp!
What great pics…the kids are adorable! And poor waffle πŸ™

Deb - He is so stinking cute I just want to eat him up. Is that how you chose his name? Lol.

a thorn among roses - love the twins tigger! sooo cute. and ikea…well, you my issue with loving almost everything from there…and 16 candles is a must watch for everyone on the planet. i am introducing my small group of hs girls to it in a few weeks…i think that’s ok…maybe i should rewatch again first.

kasey - darling little kiddo’s.
k-

Lorilee - Meg,
Your photos are wonderful,as always! The chandelier is awesome. I have never been in an Ikea. MY hair is still blonde—-well with a little help from “Sun In” hee hee! This week has been crazy at school. Having our school used as a polling place and cool front all in one week is just too much for my 4 year olds!! We also made Pumpkin Pie playdough! It smells delicious! As soon as I could get my classroom in order, I picked my son up from Middle school along with 3 friends. I then took him and the same 3 friends to the high school football game. I had to pick Brian up early because he was sick. What an exciting ride with a feel like upchucking kid!
Blessings,
Lorilee

Tausha - Natural colored hair-what a far and distant memory! Funny Post! Your little girlie is darling!
We have an ikea here, very far away. Actually, it’s not really THAT far away-only about 2 hours. But 2 hours, is still 2 hours. I do also enjoy the chocolate covered marshmellows there. Not worth the drive, but I do like them!!

carissa - i think i could see yall driving down the street…
that was some good randomness! πŸ™‚
enjoy your weekend!

Lanny Stanard - I’m sure glad you didn’t show the picture of you in the wig, I tired to laugh… Have a great week-end…
Lanny…

mom - Yes, she is definitely a mini-you! It’s too bad that I don’t have some beautiful pictures like these of you at this age. Your dad just seemed to take the funny ones – which are great, but no beautiful ones like these.

traci - i love randomness!! cute pictures of talby. especially the last one with the sun flare – beautiful. i can definately see the resemblance.

Amanda - LOVE the tigger costumes. And the lamp. ANd my natural redheadedness from my youth. Always thought being a redhead was lame and weird…so switched to blond. Now I want my red back! πŸ˜‰ Luckily, I have been pregnant or nursing for the last 3 years, so no time to add articifical color πŸ˜‰ so I am just me right now.
God bless-
AManda

MGF - That Pumpkin Pie Play Dough is the bomb…. haha (I always wanted to say that).

PamperingBeki - Yes Talby looks just like you. πŸ™‚
That school parking lot, don’t get me started. (Don’t EVEN get me started…) haha! I actually honked at someone there for the first time yesterday when she nearly ran smack into my car. I’ve never done that there before.
Happy Friday!

meredith - 16 Candles is the best! Thanks for sharing all the Halloween festivities – just gorgeous.

Jaime Melcher - You’re SO fun! Our family has ‘relocated’ many times for my husband’s job-career- whatever… Next time we move, I think I should insist that we move to wherever it is that you live… we would be great friends! πŸ™‚ Happy Weekend!

Kelly - She’s so sweet! Does she want her hair short or do you insist? We’re starting hair battles over here and I can’t decide what to do (maybe you saw my post, begging for advice, lol)?
Love the Ikea light. Will add it to my list to check out next time we go!!

Trina - You are an inspiration.. sometimes I feel crazy just driving 2 kids to school… and look at all of the other things you can accomplish – wow! Inspiration. We have that same chandelier from Ikea and I have to admit, not to make you jealous or anything, but I did wander around there yesterday but without perfect blonde hair, I assure you that!

jennifer - Just wanted to let you know I was thinking of you. In my kitchen baking cookies thinking to myself, “Bake cookies. Be happy!” πŸ™‚ It’s just one of those days. But at least it’s Friday.
I love the pictures of your daughter. You’ve such a good eye for just the right shot.
Have a wonderful weekend!

Diana Cornielle - yessss, your daughter looks just like you…you’re right, she’s a mini-you! Lol… Enjoy your day!

Tracy - Whew, Meg – that was a CLOSE one! I was needing my “fix” and just couldn’t imagine WHY you hadn’t posted the last couple of days! *lol* Seriously, love the tigger costumes, pumpkin pie spice “cookies”, etc. and the pictures of your beautiful daughter are just stunning – especially love the last one of her with her looking down and the sun shining all around her – just beautiful. Have a great fun-filled weekend! I can’t wait to see what next week holds!
Hugs, Trac~ :o)

Lisa - Hey Meg, great pictures of Talby. I was going to say that she looks much like you in the first picture. I think it’s that sweet little grin, it matches the one in your profile picture. Poor Waffle, my little Milo got fixed and declawed last week. Sometimes a little Friday randomness is good.
take care and have a great weekend,
Lisa

Kameron - I feel you in IKEA! I used to live near 3 of them and now the closest one is an hour away. I could get lost for days in that store! Have a happy Friday!

Jen - I β™₯β™₯β™₯ Sixteen Candles!!!!
Jen

Jenn - You had me at your pumpkin pic! We both got an award from the blogger behind jumpinginpuddlesoflife.blogspot.com and so I wanted to check out everybody’s blog that SHE likes and I just wanted to say that you have a wonderful eye and beautiful subjects and what seems to be an amazingly wonderful family!! The pics of your 4 year old storming the hood with her birthday ballons are stunning! Kinda makes me want to head out right now… though not being four, I may bet more confusion than smiles!!

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we are party animals.

the first annual FALL block party.

perfect weather…good food…way fun.
i enjoy so much how we all combine ideas and work together to make it a great day for everybody.
there was bobbing for apples. these kids had no fear!

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amy is the queen of face painting with so much detail but we should have done it after apple bobbing!

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since it was after halloween we had a DOG costume contest instead of people.
(it's too much work to costume up after the 31st…in my opinion)

Contestant #1 – MARLEY as a skeleton.  (she's waffle's sister…can you see the resemblance?)

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Contestant #2 – EMMIE as a hula dancer. her curly tail held her grass skirt & she wiggled non-stop.

Contestant #3 – ?????? as a priate. (not pictured)

Contestant #4 – MILEY as a Chiefs cheerleader.

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Contestant #5 – WAFFLE as Clifford….who was the worst behaved dog in the contest. ugh!
  
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we had a little runway in front of the judges.
Waffle was the big winner!  
he won a bag of chewy treats…thanks amy.  
poor baby was so humiliated all painted up.  he just pouted in his kennel all embarrassed.
it was spray hair color the washes out (he's still pink…but don't tell him that)

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next activity – Pumpkin Launching.

we used a water balloon launcher to catapult mini pumpkins down the block.

this was my personal favorite activity of the day…i tried it and loved it.

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Alexandra's went the farthest of all.  
we came close to hitting a car and a roof but mostly just knocked branches off the dead tree.
i love this one of everyone watching or taking pictures (click on it…)

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the big kids tried to catch them in baskets and buckets at the other end of the block…it was HARD!
craig had an interesting technique for distance….

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they would just FLY down the street.   can you see craig's pumpkin in top of the right picture?

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and of course there was lots of yummy food!  
each family made a different soup in a crock pot – seriously…it was so good!
and do you see…there is a pumpkin spice cake there…jenn made it.  Mmmmm.  
(and that HAS to be one of MY children's plates at the bottom with all the healthy stuff…HA!)

our last activity was pumpkin bowling.

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it was dark so all my pictures look like this.  but you can get the idea of why the kids loved it!
after this it lead into a "Smash-all-the-pumpkins-you-see" Game.
i mean really…what are you going to do with a rotten jack-o-lantern anyway? 
might as well have fun before you throw it out.

we had 2 fire pits going and everyone just hung out talking getting warm the rest of the night.
so cozy and comfy…lots of hot cocoa and hot spiked cider.
i am so grateful for our block.  such a fun group of friends.

there is a house (actually 2 houses)for sale on our block – anyone interested? 
Come on! just look at all the fun we have!
move to our block – but only if you are fun and like to party like rock stars.

Sara - Yeah, I want to move there too. Are there enough people in town to support a pizza place? πŸ™‚ Love the punkin’ chunkin’ idea. They do that on a large scale in my mom and dads town each year in some farmers field. Yours looks way fun.

Rach - Can I please move into your neighborhood??!! We have a sling-shot already so we come ready to launch. πŸ™‚ Looks like such a great place to raise kids and what great weather you had for October. Thanks for sharing.

JENNIFER RAMOS - Hi there, I just wanted to say that our blog has the most amazing photos…so beautiful! The doggie as Clifford for Halloween is such a cute idea…!! : ) Love the cushions as well a few posts down…so colorful, just my style!
Jen Ramos
‘100% Recycled DESIGNER Cards & More’
http://www.madebygirl.com
madebygirl.blogspot.com

shill - this is my first time checking you blog, and i’m LOVING it!!!!

Jamie Sampson - love these! I laughed the whole time I scrolled down. I love the bobbing for apples and the dogs in costume. Amazing.
You rock!
Hope you have a very lovely Thursday,
Jamie

Kambria - oh my goodness gracious! i want to be your neighbor. your friend needs to list her house and make it public so we can all have a snowball fight this winter…..does it snow in kansas? hmmmm….

Carrie K - sold!!! where are you??
love love love this block party…

kasey - lovely party. thanks for sharing.
k-

Lisa - Wow Meg what a wonderful party! Your street really knows how to have fun. I love the costume contest and all the yummy food. The pumpkin launch looks like fun too. I wish I could live on a street like that, But I think my friends and family would miss me if I moved that far away from them.
take care,
Lisa

Nancy - You have the best block parties! I want to implement them in my neighborhood. Maybe in the spring.

Barbara - What a wonderful get-together!! We hope to move from CA to your area. Could you please email the addresses of the houses for sale on your block. It’s exactly what we’re looking for and would be a huge time-saver!
Happy Fall, y’all!!

Alyssa - I gave you an award. The post will post later today. Check it out this afternoon.

Alyssa - Yes, I would love to move to your block. Looks like a grand time was had by all.

Becca - WOW..It all looks like so much fun. What a great neighbor hood. And the dogs look so cute all dressed up.
Will you do this again next year..or was it a one time thing?

princess lasertron - I love that party! i wish my neighborhood had parties. maybe I should organize that. or maybe I’ll move to your neighborhood. πŸ˜€

Leah - Don’t temp me MEG!! I didnt even know their were people out there that still had block parties! Must be such a blessing to be friends with neighbors!

amy d - man, when i see our block in pictures, it truly does look like the best block in the world!! (that’s cause it is!) that party was soooo much fun, can’t wait for the next one. the pix of the big kids at the end of the block is my favorite, the colors of the trees in the background is so beautiful, reminds me of the show “october road” who wouldn’t want to live here? suz, if your reading this, COME BACK!!!!

Aubrey - oh. my. gosh. can I move there? are there any jobs for my husband you think?
i’m still jealous about your 4th of july party.
i don’t know what’s cooler, the parties or that you ALL live in those awesome historical houses–a whole neighborhood full of them! with tons of huge trees!
was that lauren trying to catch pumpkins? she’s so pretty. and how cool that she wasn’t too cool to party with you?

Chicago Jen - I’m guessing your hubby took too long since I never got a call back. Or maybe it was you? Loved the block party pictures – have you worn your t-shirt yet? jen

traci - Fabulous fun!!!! We have never had a block party. I think on my entire block I only really like maybe 3 families out of 12..lol…Not much party fun in that!! You really are truly blessed.
You should take pictures of the houses for sale and tell how much and a few details. I might be interested πŸ™‚ I love Kansas

Carrie - LOVE THIS!!! These pictures are like my daydreams come true. I grew up in Brooklyn and we had block parties but I haven’t seen one since I moved from there many years ago, they don’t even have them there anymore. This just brought back SO many memories. And those homes, that street!!! My dream home is an early 1900’s home on a lovely tree lined street in a neighborhood like yours where all the neighbors are friends and enjoy spending time with each other like this. Just fantastic!

traci - as i was reading your post, i kept thinking, if i had to live in town, i would want to live on a street like yours. then i got to the bottom and you said there were 2 houses for sale in your neighborhood. here i come. do you think my family would realize i was gone.

melissa - i love reading your blog…i’m not sure how i stumbled upon it but i read it often!
we have a pretty close neighborhood like that…i wish we would actually throw a block party….we’ve been talking about it for YEARS!

carissa - you are TRULY blessed to have such fabulous… FUN neighbors! that is sooooo neat!
that was quite the time! so glad you shared all that fun!
ALL the dogs… so great!
do ya have that realtor’s number?

Diana Cornielle - I want to live in your block!!! lol. seriously! your block rocks!!!! Great idea!

Jen - I wanna move to your block!!!
β™₯Jen

Kelly - p.s. I used to LOVE bobbing for apples!
That tinker toy (?) pumpkin is greatness! Kelly

Kelly - I can tell that waffle’s sibling belongs to him. I love that y’all made waffle the big red dog! Fun idea! The whole block party is one big ole fun idea after another! That food looks amazing! We’re trying to sell a house in Missouri before we can buy one anywhere else. Kelly
p.s. I love how you told us to click on the picture. πŸ™‚

Andrea - Clifford! That. Is. Hilarious! Is he still that color? What on earth did you use? SO FUNNY!

Jill - Love your new pumpkin header too!!!!!

Jill - Fun!!! We used to have block parties like this!! Now we are on a busier street… yada, yada, yada…
You look like you have a happening block with lots of young families.
Love that pumpkin slingshot thingie!!
~Jill πŸ™‚

Deb - Oh, so fun!
And happy birthday, baby girl. My baby just turned 3, and I’m about to go blog about it.

Lanny Stanard - Oh Miss Megan, that poor dog! but so so cute!
Lanny…

amy - We do have the best neighborhood. Hands down. Tim and Mary and Weibe’s should give their relators your blog address! I have a picture of you launching a pumpkin that I’ll send you. So, so, so much fun! PUMPKIN EATER!

Rachel - That is what is missing…fun like that with fun neighbors. I love to party like Rock Stars!!!! What a great idea and that food looked delicious…how was the cake?

Lorilee - What a fun fall party! Love all the fun activities you guys did! What perfect weather too! Love Clifford!

Tracy - Man, count me in as being one of the jealous ones too! Looks like you had a great time and great pictures. Loved the one of all the yummy looking food! With all of this kind of fun going on – I can’t imagine WHY anyone would want to move from there! Thanks for sharing! Hugs, Trac~ :o)

Catherine - Just stumbled across your blog thanks to a tip off at LaLaLovely! I will be adding it to my favorites for sure!
Can I come and live in your neighborhood…what a great event! πŸ™‚ “Clifford” the most “misbehaved” costume is wild! I have never seen anything like that before!
Ohhhhh, and the spread of food, yum, yum, yum!

Mrs.Hooks - I love all of this. Perfect for this time of year. But I am dying for the red cake plate.(the one with the chocolate covered strawerries on it) Please find out where it is from. I need this!!! Have fun.

sara - wow! your neighborhood looks like so much fun! we have the only kids on our street. but we do have lots of grandparents that love the kids though.
thanks for sharing all the fun stuff you do.

brittany - sign me up for one of the houses on sale! how fun!

Karen - I’ll be there right away!! How far is the commute to Iowa? Hmmm…maybe I could talk my husband into getting his pilot’s license!

supermommy - Wow! That’s awesome! I wish our neighborhood was like that. It’s a bunch of older people around here.

Sandy - Please post pictures of houses for sale – I’m seriously going to buy one of them!
All this time I thought it was just you and your family and now I find out its the whole dang neighborhood! Kansas Rocks!! Who knew?!

Christy - SOLD! What fun you all have. The way it should be!
I need to try this in my neighborhood. I have a couple grumpy pants neighbors, but I am sure I could get the rest involved in something like this. Thank you for sharing!

MGF - Too Much fun…..
This gives me so many ideas.
Thanks for sharing.

PamperingBeki - Darn you for making me jealous again!! πŸ˜‰
I soooo wanted to plan a fall block party this year and just haven’t had time. πŸ™ That’s the downside of running my little business. I miss out on fun things like this.

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