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so much to talk about!

March 12, 2014 Filed in just the two of us,me me me,sports

there is a lot going on over here.
so much that i am feeling a strong desire to climb into bed and sleep for dayssssssss.
but i don’t have time to do that.  ha ha ha


1. Scott’s basketball team won Sub-State so they go on to play for the State 3A Championships!!!

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the first game is tonight!
i am trying to be calm about it… but on the inside i am all a mess.
my stomach hurts.
i hope he gets to keep playing all week… that they win and win and WIN.
State Tournament is SO MUCH FUN.
we are playing in the same gym where Craig played his State tournament and i was a cheerleader.
great memories are made there.

2. talby’s team won their tournament last weekend!  first place!!!

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those tournament days get long but it is really fun to see them get better and better.
and i LOVE watching talby working towards something she really enjoys.
volleyball is a fun sport to watch.
i can almost picture her as a tall high schooler jumping up and slamming the ball down with scary speed.
🙂
she watched lauren play for years and wants to go to State like she did.

3.  ummm….. we bought a house on monday.

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it was time to not be renting any longer.
this house came up and we jumped on it… 9 months ago.  🙂
we have known a long time that we were headed here but we are living in a very small town and i didn’t think any more information needed to be said until the deal was done.  it is just the respectful thing to do.
but now the papers are signed and this is where we will be moving in a month or so.

it is a new-ish home and has been beautifully maintained.  this house was very loved and cared for.
as much as we both would have LOVED an old farmhouse to fix up… that is just not something that is for sale around here.
we looked and looked.
and to be totally honest… we would probably have died from all the work while still maintaining the craft house and raising our kids.

i actually feel a little sorry for this pretty house itself because once our brood moves in… it won’t know what hit it.
we have owned it a little over 24 hours and there has already been dr. pepper spilled and a cardboard shot put thrown… flying through three rooms.  (i didn’t handle that very gracefully)  this poor house!  it’s probably crying out of fear of what is to come.

it is not in the country but it does have a field behind it and it is on the last road of town so it “feels” like the country…. almost.

now… only 1008 more decisions and projects and jobs to do over the next 4 weeks.
i am feeling about full to the brim with overwhelmed emotions.
this is a wonderful home that we are thrilled about.
this is nothing to get overwhelmed about.
i know this.
but moving and painting and answering my kids 50,000 questions while still doing the regular everyday stuff for life and work is…. a lot.

i guess that means i need some more time with jesus and exercise.
🙂
jesus will restore and calm me.
and the exercise will get all the anxiety out… so i don’t bury my face in a party size bag of pb m&ms with a margarita in both hands.

we plan on making changes to make it more Duerksen-y.
rainbows every where!!  right???  ha ha ha

we are very excited about moving into town and starting our new adventure.
i mentioned to craig that we have had a house each decade of our marriage.  Our Illinois first home was our 20’s house.  then we moved to Kansas and bought the craft house when craig was 31 and i turned 30 shortly after.  Now this is the house for our 40s.  he has a 40th bday coming up in one month.

we already love our 40s house.

add a comment

Jenny B. - Congratulations! I bet you’ll have lots of fun making it more “Duerksen-y!” 🙂

Jenn - Congratulations on the new house…that’s always so exciting!! Many blessings to you and your sweet family as you start a new journey in your beautiful home.

Mindy - Wow – congratulations on all the sporting team victories AND on the new house!! I will be anxiously following along to see all your decorating lovliness that will be happening as you settle in. Jesus and exercise will definitely help you through : )

Deb Meyers - I predict you will move beyond rainbows in your 40s house (you’ve probably gone there already in your head) and soon everyone will be copying your new direction. Can’t wait to see what you do, Meg.

Congratulations and God bless each Duerksen,

dm

rachel hood - ok, doesn’t it look like the guy in the background of picture of you and scott at the basketball game (to the far right) is getting his bum pinched! also, love your blog-congrats on your new house! can’t wait to see the decorated version!

Rach - Congrats on the new house. Your brain must be buzzing with fun things to do to it.

lauren - oh the pages that turn…hesitation sometimes…then full on sprinting with smiles so wide we catch bugs in our teeth! you’ll hit your stride in this home too. i’m so excited for your kiddos! adventures = memories and memories are forever. take care duerksen family!

CathyC - Congratulations Meg! I am so happy for you. Can’t wait to see how you put your stamp on the new house!

Lisa - Yes – what about the chickens and dogs and kitties and won’t you miss your cows across the way??? 😉

ira lee - yeah!!! that house is beautiful! can’t wait to see what you do with it! and i know life is crazy- cray-zy!!! but you will get there. i hope (and i can totally see it happeing) the main living area goes from outdated beige to beautiful bright white! =)

beth - soooo happy for you….but worried about the chickens?

Kerri - My goodness – I thought I had a lot going on right now! Saw that Hesston won last night; state tournament time is so exciting and it’s awesome to play at the Sports Arena. Good luck the rest of the week!

Colleen - Doesn’t matter where you are, but who you are… and the who of you is very good…all will be well and keep up the exercise now matter how crazy the house gets… its the only way to survive motherhood! love the new digs..

Jennifer - Meg,
Your blog has been one of my happy places for a very long time. Thank you so much! Are you going to paint the kitchen cabinets? I’m dying to know. :).
Jennifer

Andrea - Congratulations!!!! It looks like a lovely home and I can’t wait to see you make it your own……..one day at a time!!!!

Christy - Congrats on the house and everything else! I can’t wait to see all the changes you make.

So….has anyone else noticed the butt pinch in the bottom right hand corner of the second photo? I wonder if they read your blog. Too funny:)

gina - moving is no fun, but it will be nice to not rent any more. Guess looking at the big picture helps us all survive a move. yay for all of your kids and i hope Scott’s team continues to play well. Have fun!!!

April R - congratulations and best wishes!
you’re right on about the Jesus time and exercise 🙂

and I’d like to say a big huge awesome “way to go”
for the extra couple of inches on Talby’s volleyball shorts.
Volleyball is a fun game to play and watch – except for the
booty shorts! just a couple of inches more fabric plz people
so we’re all watching the game! 🙂

kristen - So exciting! I too look forward to seeing what you do. I love it when peoples’ homes reflect them and their family and not the next decorating trend.

amanda - please tell me the chickens will be making the move too???

Whitney - I saw your Facebook pic of the house yesterday and could not wait to hear more! What a great house! Can’t wait to see what you do to it! 🙂

chrissi - what a whirlwind week for your family.
congratz on the big games and the new house.
she is a charmer.

Laura - Actually, you CAN RENT FOREVER. Sadly, I am proof! HA

congrats dear friend! now get out the paint and pom poms…can’t wait to see your talents take over that place!!!! xo

Adrienne - Oooh! We have just kind of decided maybe it is time to stop renting and buy a house. Glad you beat me to it so I can see your transformation!

And rainbows? Yes please!

Michelle Whitlow - Such a cute house!! Can’t wait to see how you rainbow-fy it! hehe

KirstenP - I love love love the kitchen!! Lots of cupboards and counters and a place for the kids and hubs to sit and keep you company while you create.

Tiffany - Congrats on a new home to love. And one suggestion, prayer and then a list. Maybe it will help so you don’t feel like a juggler with 1,000 balls in the air.

Jen - Very happy and excited for you and your family. So many wonderful, happy thing happening. Good for you! Yes, exercise and talk to Jesus! Best wishes. Your new home looks wonderful.

Jerusalem - I cannot wait how you put your lovely stamp on this home! My first question is – about those cabinets? Are you painting?? They are screaming aqua to me. What are they screaming to you? Whatever it is I am sure it will be pefect! Prayers for tranquility in the midst of the wonderful busy!

Andria - I can’t wait to see all your blog posts on how you will transform the house in your great decorating style… Exciting! Congrats!

Heather S. - So happy for you – but I WILL miss seeing all the cool parties and and fun you had at the farmhouse. C’est la vie! Another adventure for you and fun for us all to watch as you make it your own. Enjoy!

Gina - Yea, yea, and YEA!! So excited for your family!! Can’t wait to see you put your stamp of the house!! 🙂

Alisa - Congrats on everything – but as a long time blog reader I am most excited to watch the house become truly *yours*. I am seeing white cabinets in that kitchen with turquoise bar chairs and globes on top of the cabinets…Am I right?

beki - I can’t wait to see how you make your house YOU!! I can already see the colorful pots and blooms on those front steps 😉 Congratulations!!

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seven tips for change

March 9, 2014 Filed in health & fitness

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so i have been thinking the past few weeks about health and fitness a LOT.
i have loved the 21 Day FIX.
LOVED!!!
the only thing that i didn’t love was my own will power over peanut butter m&ms.
and that is not 21 Day’s fault.

my plan… is to keep on the 21 day schedule with meal planning & workouts through may.
then also adding back in some running with my friends when the weather warms up.
the 21 plan is easy to maintain and i like not having to think too much about what i am going to do each day.
i just do the workout on the schedule and follow my meal plan i made.
i know Marta will be facilitating more groups.
i recommend them for everyone!  they are SO informative and encouraging!
JUST DO IT!!
(i think you need to pre-order now if you want to specifically do the 21DayFix because it sold out quickly..but ask marta)

i made a list of some helpful tips if you are having a hard time trying to fit in a workout and/or trying to change your eating habits.
because let’s face it… it is not easy.   we are ALL busy.  we are ALL tired.
these are some things that are helping me out right now!

 

1.  set out your work out gear the night before.
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when everything is out and ready you are one step closer to not talking yourself out of your workout.
i put mine in the hall in case my husband is still sleeping when i get up.

2.  workout first thing in the morning… before anything else.
you are practically still sleeping so you won’t notice until about 10 minutes in.  HA!
i know you morning people know this secret already.  (it only took me 38 years to figure it out…)
but if you get up and workout early, before your kids get up even, your day will go SO MUCH BETTER!
you have energy!  you are awake for your kids at breakfast!
you get a whole bunch of stuff done that would take so much longer had you slept later and been more tired.
TRUST ME… i understand the sleeping in.
i am the queen of sleeping in!
every morning i think “NO.  UGH.  I HATE THIS.  I WANT TO SLEEP.”
every. single. morning.
but…
halfway through the workout i am bursting with endorphins that did not exist before!
i am pumped!
it has been so good for the whole family.
because this mama loves to sleep…. like reallllllllly loves it.
but a smiley, happy, sweaty mama is so much nicer at 7 AM than the crabby, please-be-quiet-and-don’t-talk-to-me mama who can’t open her puffy eyes.
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even the dogs will be happier.

 

3.  take your food with you.
i have a cute little cooler bag that i drag all over the place.
and these kind of containers make it great for portion control and two different kinds of snacks.
if you are already stocking your kitchen with loads of healthy options this should take you hardly any time at all.
if you aren’t… you should start.
buy twice as much fruit and veggies and half as much processed food the next time you shop.
give it a try.
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4. HYDRATE.
my drink of choice is water.
we all need LOTS of it everyday… possibly much more than you normally drink.
i love coffee and drink that all the time too.
but when i am out and about i always have my water cup but i was running out all the time.
then i would be thirsty and annoyed… because even if you went through a drive through and ordered a water… it tastes like grease!
and if you drink soda i am sure as soon as your water would be gone you would be dying for a soda at a drive through.
so this is my solution in my car.
bestdayever(do not look at my dirty console… just UN-see that ok?)
i refill them almost everyday.  then i always have more water on hand.  and i have a healthy drink when my kids say “I’m thirsty!”

no more missing out on drinking my water when i want it.
and no excuses.

 

5.  get rid of that junk food in your house that temps you.
just throw it away.
literally.
(and pour stuff on top of it so you don’t take it back out of the trash…)(not that i have ever done that….)
it is bad for you.  (peanut butter m&ms… i am talking to you!!!)
it’s better off in the trash than in your body.

and don’t get fast food anymore.
just don’t.
it’s gross…. i mean… it really is!
the only “fast food” place i can still handle occasionally is Chipotle.
that is certainly not perfect either but its a much healthier choice than Wendys or McDonalds.
all that other greasy food?
you know it’s bad… you know it.
so we have to just say enough is enough.
and stop the madness.

i am sure i will eat fast food on a rare occasion but not weekly and not even monthly.
it would be out of pure necessity (“no place to eat for the next 3 hours on a road trip” kind of necessity)

 

6. find some accountability.
it is such a great motivator to know someone else is cheering you on.
there are lots of ways to have accountability… i personally really like the groups marta is leading.

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and meeting with my girlfriends for running (or walks when i have too much to talk about  😉
we keep each other motivated.  we build each other up.  we encourage.  we sympathize.
we give grace.  we support!
as a busy mom i need to hear from someone who can really understand what that means.
it is constant… right?
as moms and women we are all go-go-go.  we don’t get time off.  we are all day and all night.
so i need to hear i am not alone and that i am doing ok.
accountability for me needs to be understanding and encouraging… no guilt or shame or teasing.
so be sure to choose your accountability wisely.
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and if you don’t have girlfriends to do that with… MARTA will be your friend!
she will be those things for you!  having a coach is pretty great.

 

7.  LAST tip…..you have to take care of YOU.

YOU are an important, beautiful, amazing creation made by an Almighty God.

it is true!
and YOU are in charge of it.
what you eat is up to you.
what you do with your body is up to you.
as grown women… no one else is going to take of us anymore.

that means YOU have to schedule your time to exercise.
that means YOU have make healthy choices one day at a time.
that means YOU have to be the one to schedule a massage for yourself.
or a hair appointment.
or a date night!
or a girls night!
or just a stinkin nap.

you need rest and recharge and good foods and exercise.

and you have to do it for YOU.

i listened to a sermon last week & the line that stuck with me was
“no one plans to ruin their life… they just don’t plan not to”
i think that is true for our health and self care too!
none of us say out loud  “i am just going to eat everything when i am stressed or sad and not get off this couch”
or  “i am just going to take care of everyone else all day every day & make sure there is no time left for me to recharge.”
but we don’t do things to prevent it and we end up doing just that.

don’t forget about you.
your body is worth 30 minutes of exercise.
your body deserves healthy foods over junky stuff.
your mind craves time to rest and relax.

God made you awesome…. so BE awesome!

what are your thoughts?
i would love to hear them.
even if your thoughts are “geez meg you are losing your mind”
let’s hear it.
what are you doing?  what do you want?  how are you getting there?  what motivates you?
🙂

 

 

 

 

add a comment

Jen@thecottagenest - Such great tips Meg! Thank you for posting them!

Congratulations on your new home. I can’t wait to see what you do to it. So fun (and stressful) to have a new project!!

Christin - Thank you so much for this encouragement! I am 31 with 3 young boys and it can feel like the days just slip by and now I’m heavier than I’ve ever been and I’m sick of it! Thanks for the tips to get started!

Traci - I so need to get back into working out first thing in the morning. I like the gym better late at night when not a lot of people are there (mine is 24 hours!), but exercising in the morning sets up the best days.

Valerie @ Chateau a la mode - Hi Meg,
Wow, look at you go! So proud of you. I like your idea if getting things out the night before for a workout. I have actually gotten frustrated because I cant’t find anything ti wear and din’t work out. It’s just a dumb excuse, but it has happened to me. Good luck on your new program and keep us posted.

Alicia @ La Famille - Meg, this is so good. Its all stuff I know, but just needed to be reminded. Getting up and getting your workout in before the kids are up is KEY!!! Such good stuff.

And CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! on your new house and all the kids’ successes! So much good stuff going on with you guys!

xo,
Alicia

Lesley - Meg – you’re the bomb, for real! You are sooooo inspiring, honest and authentic! You make great points here and I agree with every one of them. I especially love the doing it for YOU message. When I feel like I’m hauling myself to work out, I remind myself that this is me looking after me – if I don’t do it for myself, who else will!? Can’t wait to get my hands on my 21 day fix too! xox

Stacie Bowers - Thanks so much for your never ending inspiration! I can’t wait until our paths cross again. xo

Andrea - I’m there…..I’m trying….not perfect, but sure trying. I love your big water cup….I have had two cooler cup thingy’s and both were awful……. where did you find your cute water cup??????

Keep on inspiring us all, please…..

Sarah D. - I *need* to know where you found that snack container that you have your apples and pb in! I just looked on-line and think it must be Rubbermaid brand, but it isn’t for sale via the Rubbermaid website and I can’t find it for sale on any other website either. Please help!!! 🙂

Laura H - Thank you for this very positive post Meg! There are many things I have learned with age, and one of them is to take care of your body! I am a VEGAN, and I can tell you from personal experience it has the BEST effect on your mental and physical well being! I feel light and joyous all of the time! People always ask me what I eat, and I tell them….REAL FOOD!
I also find it easier to run in the morning. You feel so great afterward! It sets the tone for the entire day! I always look forward to your posts, and this one by far is the best!! xo

amy jupin - you inspire me!
and you look so healthy and STRONG!
likin that big time.
i think you deserve a hug.
in person this time!

Cassandra - Way to go, keep up the good work!! And you are absolutely right we deserve time to recharge & take care of ourselves. Thanks for reminding me 🙂

Lindsey - This is great stuff here! Thanks so much for spelling it out for me today!

cyndiloohoo - I love the line about not planning to ruin your life…. That is so true. I didn’t plan on gaining extra weight when I was in my 30’s, it just happened. I have lost it, gained back 10 pounds and am now trying to lose it again. I also love to sleep and that is my struggle, wanting to sleep any chance I get a little extra time. I know I need to exercise more but it is so hard.

Jess - Thank you so much for this, Meg! I am a runner who is trying to get back into it after a very rough winter in Chicagoland. I’m always so happy to be out there running and I never regret it when I go, but sometimes finding the motivation can be hard! These are great tips for fitness motivation AND healthy eating, which is something my husband and I are definitely working on 🙂 I really enjoy reading your blog and enjoy seeing where the journey takes you. Cheers!

Stephanie - Thank you so much for this great encouragement. It came at just the right time for me. It’s nice to hear it from a real woman, a real mom, just like me. I have bookmarked this post!!!

Heather - Meg I just finished the 21 day fix with Marta is was awesome! But….dang….you should be a coach!!! You rock!!!!

Janna - You are so RIGHT ON!!! I too am on this same kick and I know some ppl think I am losing my mind but you know what…I just. don’t. care. I am taking charge of my life and my health and it feels awesome! I lost 65 lbs last yr from Apr. to Dec. and I have kept it off and life is so SO much better!!! Feels amazing to be even 10 lbs lighter than I was when I got married 14 yrs ago. We have cut almost every processed food out of our house and buy as much organic as we can afford (I have major health issues like autoimmune of the thyroid etc and I just pray none of my kids have to get as sick as I did). One of my 4 kids has tested positive for gluten and dairy allergy along with me:( I still have to get the others tested. It’s a long hard road, but it is our responsibility to keep our family healthy. So keep it up you and good luck on your health journey!!!

dixie - meg,

love your fitness posts! i’m thinking hard about doing the “marta plan.” i’ve emailed back & forth w/ her a few times… my 2 biggest questions which she didn’t answer directly….. 1. how can i incorporate eating out with this plan?? and 2. the workouts? do i have to have a treadmill or any equipment? can i do this in my basement??

would love some more direction!!!

thanks!!!!!

Erin - My neighbor and I started T25 7 weeks ago and for the first time ever I have finally stuck with a workout program for more than 2 weeks. I love junk food and am always in the car and going non stop like you. I gained weight this winter and normally this time of year I give up all carbs, lose the weight and then by about 4th of July start putting it back on. About 3 weeks ago I decided that I didn’t really care so much about the weight ( well I would love 10lbs off) but about my health. Once I started exercising I cared more about food as fuel and how it was going to make me feel later if I ate junk. Anyway, like you I find that I have to pack a cooler when i hit the road. I actually love it! I love having something fresh to eat and not something from a drive thru! I also never leave my house without water (I used to drink diet coke all day). Have a workout buddy. Someone who wont let you quit. And my last tip is buy cute work out clothes. I swear it makes a difference.

Marla - As a mom of a 7 month old…working out has taken a major back seat until recently. All that middle of the night waking and nursing boobs don’t really make for a good early morning workout. but I have made my little guy’s first nap my “first thing in the morning”. Put him down and work out immediately. (and yes my clothes are laid out) 😉

Liz - Love this, Meg! After a year of Crossfitting with a recent 3 month break, I am feeling ICK. I started a 21 day sugar detox today and signed up for a new gym membership, so this post came at a great time. The signs are everywhere! It’s so difficult sometimes to remember #7 when we are busy being wives, employees, mothers, friends… It’s so vital, though. THANKS FOR SHARING!

LeighAnn - I’m doing a challenge as well. Saw a link for your blog and I loved your tips. Where did you get your huge water bottle?? I love it. And what a great idea to keep spare water bottles in the car.

Leann - LOVE your blog Meg. Love how encouraging & real you are! As women, it’s nice to see everyone support one another! 🙂

Alice H – I’m in about the same boat as you! Except I have only 1 kid, he’s a year and a half. I get up at 3:30, I can’t imagine getting up any earlier either! I work 7:30-4 but I have an hour and a half commute one way in the morning & an hour back home! By the time I get home, it’s dinner time, play, bath & bed. My little one is in bed by 7:30 & I work out for at least a half an hour then. I know it’s not “good” to workout that late some say, but it’s better than sitting on my couch. At least that’s what I keep telling myself 🙂 I’m a newbie to the workout zone, I started eating better about a month ago, cutting out processed foods and white starches. No sweets, occasional dark chocolate, no soda, just water and a coffee in the AM. A week & a half ago, I started to work out. I can definately already see a little bit of change going on.

You can do it! It definately isn’t easy, but It’s worth it 🙂

April R - This post is going to be such a blessing 🙂
Fun, concise, REAL, and inspiring – thank you!

“Un-see that” XD

Kimberly - Thank you.
I SO needed this today (easter egg in mouth)
I will be shopping for little containers and lotsa good groceries this afternoon.
And I might even hit the treadmill. Stranger things have happened!

Alice H - I have a hard time waking up any earlier than I do. I work full-time from 7:30-4:30 (a 30 minute commute) and I already wake up at 5:30 to shower, get ready, get my kids ready, etc. Then when I get home, it is dinner time, play time, homework time, cleaning time, bed time. And I am exhausted by then also!! What would some tips be for me to get some exercise in? I walk around my work building in the morning and afternoon for my “smoke break” (I do NOT smoke, we just call it that. LOL!). I eat decently, we have been cutting out a lot of processed foods at our home. But I have a really hard time getting in a good exercise. Besides playing with my kids, bike riding (when weather permits), etc. Thanks for any tips or feedback!

Adriana - I love all of your tips! I’m currently trying to make this fitness thing happen in my life and I reaaaaaally need some motivation, I’m not a morning person… But you’re so inspiring! Thanks!

Jenni Horne - This is a great post!! It’s nice to see “real” people working out and making healthy food changes. Kinda more of a motivator for me than let’s say that skinny chick on the video. Sounds whack, but knowing someone that is busy, has a family to nurture and a business to keep up with is making time for these healthy changes makes me want to try too. I kinda like being awesome. 🙂

Karen Gerstenberger - Dear Meg,
Thank you for sharing your fitness routine, healthy eating and encouragement with all of us. I just returned from a week at a wellness retreat with my 81-year old mom (1st time in my life, and I am 54) – it was life-changing! We practiced loving self-care, were able to eat healthy food and really see it as FUEL for this precious, only body which God gave to each one of us. I tried new forms of fitness, and things I haven’t done in years (walked the labyrinth, took gentle hikes, and tried yoga). Now I’m in love with yoga, and have started a practice at a studio near my home. It’s the right combo of spiritual, mental and physical for me – gentle, yet challenging – and it is a great balance for my regular fitness-walking. There is something out there for everyone, and we will find it, if we are gentle and kind to ourselves. It’s hard to love our own body in this culture, but our bodies are gifts and we need to take care of them from the inside out. I’m thankful that you are modeling this for yourself, your family and blog readers. If you want to read about the retreat we took, I wrote about it on my blog (karengberger.blogspot.com).

Tere - Thanks for sharing Meg. You are doing awesome. I needed to hear these 7 tips this morning. It’s so easy for me to get “off” this life change, your motivation is appreciated. Question: how are your kids/household handling #5 — are they adjusting to no junk in the house, or maybe they aren’t junk eaters like their mama. xoxo

Wendy - I need this! I have been searching everywhere for that external motivation to stick to the working out routine. Mornings are so tough especially when it is so cold. I hope this warmer weather helps me some. How do you stay away from the delicious treats at Craft weekend? I find myself making great cookies and cakes for my kids and husband and then can’t resist. That is why I need to work out so I can indulge without the guilt!

I loved the first commenter. So true. I am always inspired by your posts but not to be you to be me.

Thanks!

-W

Jen - First, I am so proud of your for doing this for you. I think that’s great! Not only are you becoming healthier, you are also setting a very positive example for your family. You go, mama!

Me? I am a group exercise instructor (for the past 18 years) and have had the whole exercise, no soda, no fast food thing down for a LONG time. I am however 37 years old, have had two babies, am aware that my metabolism will start slowing down if I don’t fight it, and am trying to do a few things to better my health. I want to be able to run around when I’m a grandma!

I am trying to eat healthier and move more. I stand as much as possible – paying bills, waiting at the doctor’s office, on the laptop at home, etc., I am planking whenever I can (don’t tell my co-workers, but I do this in the nice big single-seater bathroom at work and then wash my hands REALLY well!), I am trying to consume more fresh fruits and veggies, and have been keeping a food journal since August.

I saw something on Pinterest that I keep thinking: Move more, eat right. The weight will take care of itself.

Kimberlee - #7—the most important.
I see you doing this, and encouraging others is the best.
God made you to do this.
I love you more than pb m&m’s.
Now that’s love!

molly - love your tips. so simple. and they are all so true. i especially like the tip to buy more fresh food. you just have to keep the good stuff on hand!! and the water. i drink a ton of water. i always carry my water cup (my favorite cup just broke this weekend….sad day!) what i notice is my girls rely on my water cup for them to drink too. so we are all drinking more water.

and taking care of you. so important. to be our best we have to take time for ourselves. we have to be a good example for our kids. oh there will be days where the workout gets skipped and we eat a cheeseburger from sonic but that is ok too. we need to be a good example of good health and you need to take care of you.

Amanda - Love this Meg! So happy you are feeling your groove getting healthy!! Me too :):) I started with a group of 20 girls on Jan 5th. We read the Daniel Plan, and began an 8 week challenge together to get healthier. The new good habits stuck and at 10 weeks I’m still feeling great!
Grateful for the ability beyond myself!! Glory to Him! He’s given me so much willpower and endurance.
I’m also following a few great weight loss journeys… Diana smith (livylove) and molly brown (mollyrunsforlife). Those ladies are so inspiring.

Elise - I’m really enjoying these posts! Please keep them coming! I’m 9 months pregnant right now (with my first) so a lot of what you are sharing (particularly the exercise part) doesn’t apply too much at the moment but I’m already feeling motivated by you to get back to being diligent in my exercise and eating once the baby is born!

Julie B - I have a 5, 3 and 9 month old. And I work a full time corporate job. And I have 9,476 other reasons not to take care of myself. But I also need to lose baby weight. And I just turned 35 on Friday. And all of these factors added up to me making the same choice you have recently made. Enough is enough. There will never be a convenient time to lose weight and get in shape. But I refuse to give up on myself. 35 is still too young. I have so much i want to do and I’m going to do it…by making time for me to eat healthy foods and exercise. I’m about 4 weeks in and feel like a new person. And I’m so energized to keep going!!

Keep up the good work and keep up the motivating blog posts. We all need community to make lifestyle changes.

Michelle - If you want to try a different salad, my fiance and I have both been obsessed with this lately:

mixed greens, craisins, feta or blue cheese and sunflower seeds.

For a dressing we make a white balsalmic vinegar that we have tweaked from several recipes….usually put it in a mason jar and shake before serving:

1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar
1 TBSP honey
1 TSBP lemon juice
salt and pepper to taste

SO good! Hope you try it. 🙂

Stephanie - You are doing a great job, Meg! We have been healthy eaters since the late 90s (no processed food, mostly organic, no fast food, grassfed meats and milk, lotsa veggies, etc), but I so remember that lightbulb coming on for me. Not that I ever thought fast food was healthy, but I never really cared. Exercise has been much harder for me. I am now signed up at Fit2B.com. 10 minute workouts that I can handle at night when all my kids are in bed. I still have 20 lbs to lose, so exercise is it!
Keep it up, Meg! 🙂

Donna - I am a morning person, so I am not always so popular in my house when I am up and about and everyone else wants peace and quiet. But I have to run before everyone gets up, or I won’t do it later in the day. I can usually sneak out quietly, and it is SUCH a great way to start my day. A time of solitude, quiet, peace, reflection, positive thoughts for the day. In the end, it makes me a better mama 🙂

GB Jost - When in Wichita, stop at QT and buy a cup that is refillable. Fill it with water, KEEP IT, and at any QT (and there are thousands in Wichit and outside of Wichita), you can get free refills of water anytime!

Jen - I am SOOO with you on the morning exercise! I, too, set out my clothes the night before and I get up at 5:30 and get it done. If I don’t, it doesn’t happen. No matter how much I tell myself it will! I get on the treadmill for 20-30 minutes and then it’s done! I have also found that I am MUCH more motivated to get on the treadmill if I have something to look forward to while I’m ON the treadmill! I am not a music gal so I get the ipad set to Netflix and watch something that I only allow myself to watch on the treadmill. I did ALL the seasons of Parks and Rec this way and now I’m working my way through New Girl! I can watch one whole episode while I’m exercising and the time goes much more quickly. I think next I’m gonna go back through old Parenthood shows because you can’t get much better than that!

I MUST be better at preparing food ahead of time. Things go SOOO much better when I do but I am SOOO not good at that. And I don’t love salads either. Ugh!

Thanks Meg! You are inspiring!

Sarah M - Ugh. You are absolutely right. I’ve been thinking about all of this for a while now. My 4th (and last) baby is 19 months old. I’m still carrying weight I gained from my first baby, 8 years ago! Number 7 struck a chord. I keep thinking I have to change everything immediately. Then, of course, I can’t maintain all of the change so I fail and I hear the lie that I just shouldn’t even try.
Thanks for this post. I’m bookmarking it to come back to daily.

Martha - I have the 21 day fix as well. What dressing do you put on your salad?

Gemma - Great post Meg! I just love your honesty. Did you ever like salad before or have you just become used to eating it? Sometimes I love the idea of a salad but once it is in front of me I can barely eat half of it. It just tastes so bland.

Gemma x

Lori - You are so real and authentic and therefore anything you write is interesting and motivational. But especially this post – especially the dirty console. You inspire me every day – not necessarily to be more like you, but to be more like me. And I just wanted to say thank you.

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23 degrees.

March 4, 2014 Filed in pretty

that is the temperature outside right now. i am under four blankets… on my heated mattress pad… wearing to many clothes. so i thought we could all use a little warmth through color today!0d892a7b492ff44fc601e52f336a6094yes please…. i would like to drink one (or four) of these.

3bc77d37fb32f79988b15ebf4c245e85 love the colors together here… wishing my daughters shared my love for this palette.01835da9e2f7604fa3e78e67a6af83ef this makes me want to jet off to the big city with my man!

85374fa0b7988a08836678a307c57e2b our first home had 6 foot tall hollyhocks for days that just grew wild in the back corner of the yard.

92475f0fef9bbbcb0db5b9a03f1356e8that couch.  YES.

0184342ac524d62545075b723f9e9559 what a FUN wall design?!! So simple and classic!

441640c1d693f4aeeb583a577e7a5460 oh wow.  i want to eat the whole thing.  this is my favorite kind of pizza...YUM!

e0b3874e7ebc654a9c91e71f331f0b76a fruit rainbow. i want to make one! i see a citrus grocery bill in my near future….

f2ce86d7ee310ce11451b701ca273f6f seriously?  Such an EASY way to make a super fancy looking dessert!

0e0592a43137ef671fc0caca0c9afc32love this print from Naptime Diaries!

 

a11bb3474cba23c65eec6ceff0c44aa2 how adorable are these?  I would eat them all.

1709428d3cff169e2130e5e6996143f4what fabulous colors!!! one of my most favorite flowers too.

 

5b26277961337cb2e2986d7bb93ffe8a-1art supplies make me happy.

9fbe2b0664fffbd93beef534332bfcd0this makes me want to take a trip…. to a house in the middle of the ocean… like this!

a4bfbd47188a35a684da20cf98d0c1dfcan you even believe that places like this exist?  sometimes when i really think about it i am blown away. some people get to live like this. every day. it is craaaaaaaazy.

c8616cb16ba0d09e9da8d02010aae724

d75170e9b5d9a56973df770f735daa04this kitchen. i mean…. i would never… but yet… i LOVE it! it is so cool. you know whoever lives here is THE COOLEST person i would ever meet in real life.

e943f81a90e927becb700738a8f70164i wish i had taken this photo. because that would mean i could visit this place. and take more.

(and of course the source is all screwed up… can’t find who DID take it)

 

i am making hot tea and watching Parenthood on dvr right now. (that adam braverman is the just the best) what are you doing right now?

add a comment

Deana - Well I’m late on the draw reading this post…but it got up to a balmy 35 here today in Boston! Whoot whoot felt like summer….scary that 35 can feel so warm when your used to 10 degrees and under.
Love the citrus pic too!

Cori - I love all the pretty things you find! Vintage Revivals blog has a tutorial for that geometric wall. Check it out. She is awesome 🙂
http://www.vintagerevivals.com/2013/01/diy-sharpie-wallpaper-tutorial-this-is.html

linda - I am enjoying all the beautiful posts for spring and yours. Color…not white. Love it! My toes have not been warm for days.

Necole@seriouslysassymama - I got home from work at 1:45, made some taco soup in the crock pot for dinner, finished my geometric art for the living room, and am now waiting for my girls to get home from school. After that, heading to academy sports to buy some softball gear for an awesome 8 year old. I am tired after writing that.

Sharla - I love the color shown on the inside of that closet! I think I might have to do that. Also, I hear you on the tropical water pics – people are able to live like that every day?! I want to take a vacation right now so bad! Supposed to be almost 70 on Monday. 🙂

Stephanie Wilson - I want to be a Braverman. That is all.

Traci - I love all of these colors!!! And I love Parenthood and agree about the actor you mentioned. :]

Michelle from Australia - It’s 84 degrees F here today in Brisbane, Australia. And this is our Autumn (Fall). Our climate is very similar to Tampa, FL. I leave Australia in two weeks. And will land in totally frozen Upstate New York in 3 weeks. If Niagara Falls is frozen (again), I imagine I’m going to be a bit cold! And I can’t wait. I hope it warms up for you soon Meg.

Amy K. - It is 23 degrees here in Minnesota today, and let me just say, WE ARE THRILLED. Beyond thrilled, considering how much 23 degrees *below* zero we have had this winter.

beth larson - Hi Meg!
I just had to re-read your header and then laugh out loud! It is 23 degrees here and I am celebrating! This is the warmest it’s been here in weeks and weeks! Woo Hoo!!!!!!!!!! (middle of MN). Our furnace died last night too, so we are running a few space heaters and I have a t-shirt and sweater on to try stay warm…. but 23 degrees? THANK YOU JESUS!!!!!

Didn’t really want to have to buy a new furnace – but I guess we don’t really have a choice,

: )

XO beth

Sara - Parenthood….yes, yes, yes. Love it!

And the last picture you posted is just about perfection. I liked your warm post, despite the fact it’s cold here again today too.

I’m working on a blog post, with a fun spring giveaway ( just because ). Don’t we all need a bit of a lift this time of year? Bring on the warmth.

Jenna - It’s currently 19 degrees here in Wisconsin and we are all like heat waveeeeeee! But I’m dreaming of not having to bundle up anymore and those cool homes in the water. I can hear the waves crashing now… 🙂

Jen - Parenthood was SOO GOOD this week! I just love Adam too–and that “spa” they went to looked heavenly. Although my man said “no way” to the mud bath! HAHA

I have been watching old “Parenthood” seasons on Netflix. It is SO. GOOD. I will be so sad when it ends someday. sniff sniff

Heather S. - LOVE Adam Braverman! Funny story – was watching the Truman Show with the hubs last night and realized that the weirdo Truman worked with at the insurance agency IS Adam Braverman! Totally funky pompadour and all. Still…that voice and those kind eyes…I’d recognize them anywhere! 🙂

Tiffany - I do not scream color at all. I am Neutrals Neutrals Neutrals, plain plain plain, greige greige greige, althought I do love yellow 🙂 I’ve tried to incorporate it into my life but its too busy for my eye. But you, you do such a good display of it without the color being too much. Thanks for sharing your inspiration today.

GB Jost - Had devotions earlier (6:50am). Joined my students for Breakfast Club (breakfast duty) from 7:30-7:50. Now drinking hot tea (with milk), and reading blogs and answering e-mail’s. My first student will be here at 8:30. Miss you so much! gb

Bethany - It’s about 15 degrees here and snowing…again. *sigh* I have been sewing with fun, bright fabrics this week so that is brightening everything up. Your pictures make me think of one my mom sent me this weekend. She was cleaning up a jar of old buttons she bought so we can use them in sewing and embroidery projects. She took a shot of them all laid out by color- so pretty! Today’s buttons don’t even compare.

Lisa - I am staying up way too late messing around on the computer. Checked your blog and love all the happy pictures! Stay warm!

Katie - Love the color. We had the jello for valentines, so easy. I was also just showing the hubs that resort too. Love.

Shibrone - I am at home in Australia, about to head in & pick up my kids from school. We’ve got a dreary Autumn day happening here, I miss Summer already! I am trying to embrace the beauty of the new season though 🙂 Reading this blog post of your I am thinking you must be hungry, all that deliciousness you want to eat all of 😀

Kristi REDISKE - I am reading your blog loving it and waiting to see your post on craft weekend to see what you all bought at the barn! I love that place- a couple friends and I are driving down it his month to go there too! It’s cold here to and I am all wrapped up too!

Julie - I am at home in New Zealand, the sun is shining, but we have the slightest autumnal feel to the air temperature. I am loving all the bright and inspiring photos you have posted about. Hope it warms up somewhat for you soon.

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oops… i messed up.

March 1, 2014 Filed in SHOP

apparently i entered MY OWN code wrong into my shop stuff so some of you were trying to order today with the discount and it wouldn’t work.
it’s totally MY fault.
so i thought i should extend it one more day just in case!

saleprint
so many of you got canvases!!!
i am so thrilled about that.
thank YOU so much!  i know you are going to absolutely love them.

This is the perfect time to order the canvases!

Use the code 15SALE for 15% off all canvases and prints at www.megduerksen.bigcartel.com!

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Gina - This is totally off topic but my 21 Day Fix came today and I am so excited. I wanted to do something but didn’t know what or how. You inspired me. Keep kicking butt being awesome!

Linda - One more comment … Mary Kay recently also has a fantastic Skinvigorate Cleansing Brush!

Courtney - What size is the Best Day Ever print? It didn’t show options like the others. Are only some avail in canvas? I also didn’t see that as an option. Maybe because I’m on an iPad?

Ana Hogan - I can’t wait to receive my canvas! You are so wonderfully talented. I wanted to buy all of your prints! It was a difficult decision to choose just one. Thank you so much for sharing your gift with the world! 🙂

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random much???

February 28, 2014 Filed in me me me,random

ok… it’s Craft Weekend.  Carissa (The Brown Eyed Fox) and Jess (the Macs) and Kimberlee are here and everyone is buzzing around me working hard.
Kimberlee is cooking… Carissa and Jess are making beds.
i did my pilates workout upstairs in the master bathroom this morning.  ha ha ha
Stanley is even here with us tearing up any box he can find.
Avett Brothers on Pandora.
it’s a good good day.

i have a question for you?

what do you know about Proactiv?
proactivproactiv
i am curious for my teenage and tween children if it’s worth the cost… if it works… what are your thoughts?
is it different (better or worse) than the Acne Free line of products at the grocery store?

Also i feel like telling you that this week i ordered 10 different sports bras on amazon because i am SO SICK of wasting my precious alone time at a s sports store gross tiny fitting room trying on a bunch of bras!
cn6911689
you know what i mean?  where you can hear dudes walking around outside the fitting room talking to each other and it feels like they are in the room with you?!!!!
so i just typed in my size and ordered 10 different ones that MAY possibly work.
then i emailed my husband and said Don’t Freak Out.  I only need one and it’s free returns.
I just can’t waste another minute of my life trying on bras.
blahhh….  am i the only crazy one?

Another random thing.
clarisonic-mia-pink
have you ever heard of the Clarisonic Mia Sonic Skin Cleansing System?  I had seen them when i have had facials (after running the half marathon and on our post race spa days) I debated for over a year… then i decided to just see if makes a difference on my skin (that is now 38.5 years old).
and let me tell you… i have had one break out in the three months i have used it. ONE!
WHAT?!
i know right???
i use it every single night and it has been such a difference in my skin!
so i figured it was time to tell you!

ok…it’s time for me to get to work!

Craft Weekend is going to ROCK!

 

add a comment

Erin - Hi Meg! I used Proactive and was so hopeful it would work I stuck with it for 2 years. It made my skin worse! On top of that, they put you on an auto refill program. It was a big hassle to try and discontinue you “subscription”–I would say don’t do it!

The lovely one - My brother used pro-activ years ago and like it. I used Cetaphil and that’s always worked for me (but my acne was not as bad as his). I would start with the cheaper brands you can get in the store and then work your way up to the more expensive stuff if you need to.

Valerie @ Chateau a la mode - Proactive was a waste of money at our house! Maybe I’m too late for an opinion but saw this. Our dermatologist. told us not to believe those commercials. Good luck cuz pimples suck 😉

Christina - Victoria’s Secret sells sports bras now my daughter uses the ones that say maximum support. She plays soccer year round & loves them. They give her definition & not just one flat boob like most sports bars do. Also generally not a lot of men in the store & not in the dressing rooms for sure! Good luck

AnnMarie Denis - Proactive will stain your towels. It has bleach in it or something b/c whenever I used it and tried drying my face it left giant bleach stains on it.

Margie C - Be careful if you try Proactive. I bought it for my 15 year old and she tried it a week before her school dance. It made her eyes swell and caused major redness. We called the company and were told she must be having an allergic reaction to it and offered to refund our money. When I started researching I found out many people are allergic to it. Just FYI it took a week for her to look better.

Cory - Have used proactive for years and LOVE it! My skin is super dry and the lotion is very gentle.

brandi - just wanted to share about my proactive experience: i had been to dermatologist as a teen and nothing they gave me worked. LOVED proactive. didn’t dry my face out like so many others. the last lotion i put on did bleach my pillow a time or two, so i just stuck with light colored pillow cases. 😉

Valerie - I bought this last year ( Wacoal Women’s Sport Bra #855170) at Amazon and it’s the first sports bra that I’ve ever liked. I’ve always wished I could wear the cute kind, but alas.

I want to buy the Clairisonic. I’ve been thinking about it, but the price makes me choke a little. I should do it.

Beth - I agree w/others that Proactive stops working after awhile and is super harsh/drying to the skin so you have blemishes plus flakey skin – so not a good thing!!! I have true every over the counter and high end acne regime, but nothing really worked till I tried the products and regime at Acne.org. The price is reasonable and I’ve used the stuff for 4 years now w/hardly any breakouts.
Also, Title Nine has the best sports bras – worth every penny!!

Linda - I highly, highly recommend Mary Kay products. When my daughter was in those great teenage years she used the acne treatment gel and other skin care and even though we had gone to a dermatologist and could have paid megabucks for his recommendations, the Mary Kay provided her with much success and at a very reasonable cost – plus no ruined washcloths or towels. 🙂 And she has “graduated” into their other skin care products as a young mother. Feel free to email me at lbt2060@gmail.com if you’d like to know more.

Lee Ann - My favorite bra is by moving comfort. I have to have a padded one that has back clasps. Sometimes my arms are so sore and I’m so sweaty after a work out that I can hardly get the others over my head. One day I thought I was seriously stuck. Now that’s a funny picture 🙂

Deb Meyers - Don’t know about Proactiv, but wow, Adam Levine had serious acne? That’s encouraging for anybody, right?

How about sharing the Clarisonic with them?

Reducing sugar and wheat makes a big difference with any skin issues in our family. But that’s hard to do if the teen isn’t on board. So maybe introducing green smoothies (Start with Naked brand) would help.

d meyers

Kathy - Both my children have used Proactive. For my son it works great, he is still using it but he only has mild problems. For the people who complained about it bleaching things out, Target now has a line of towels that are supposedly not affected by it. Nothing worked for my daughter (we tried many different kinds) who ended up having to go to a dermatologist and is still having problems but we are getting there.

Rachael - I have used proactiv. It was not a life changer for me. About two years ago I started using a RX facial cream at night called Clindamycin and it changed everything. It’s very gentle feeling, no strong smell and it WORKS. My face is completely cleared up and both my teen daughters use it and have clear skin as well. 🙂

Lorie Yoder - I have used Proactiv for YEARS with great success. However, I had my teenage daughter use it, and it was almost too harsh for her, and never worked.

Since I have LOVED reading your blog for years, and LOVE watching you post craft weekend stuff…I am wondering…I have an etsy shop myself and would love to provide some swag for your guests for a weekend. How can I get it to you? address?

To check me out: (I’m not a creeper, just a mom and crafter)

website: vintagecountrygirl.blogspot.com, link to my shop on my site.

Maria - Hi Meg, re: Proactive…it does work, when nothing else seemed to work for my young teen. Then real downside is you will end up with boxes of step 2 & 3 under the sink, and they only ever run out of step 1. But you cannot order individually without paying way too much. I hate that! She has now been using Xout (also sold on TV) which is sold individually, and seems to work as good.

Mendi - My son uses the new X-Out by Proactive. He used to use a very long 3 step process (it might have even been 4 steps) that cost about $100 for a month supply and he hated doing so many steps. When I saw the new 1 step plan for only $19.99 I jumped at the chance to try it. He uses it much more faithfully than the other proactive and seems to have better results (maybe cuz he actually uses it).

Shelley - Ok, I suffered for years and years with acne (it started when I was 12, I’m 38 now)and about 2 years I finally cleared my skin up, but it wasn’t with proactive. It’s an amazingly cheap all natural product called sea buckthorn oil. There is soap and oil and serums etc, but highly recommend the bar soap and oil for spot treatment. BP is so hard on skin and through my own experience, a temporary fix. All I use on my skin now are all natural products, I am done with chemicals…Good luck, I can sympathize with anyone (especially kids) who have acne…

Seamingly Sarah - I would go see a GOOD esthetician first and have them tell you what is going on with your skin. The tips that have worked for me is to treat your face like a rose petal. If you wouldn’t do it to a rose petal, don’t do it to your skin – scrubbing. And don’t use things to dry up the oil. The oil is not the problem. Once you dry it up your skin Over produces oil, then the extra oil is a problem. Don’t use products that say oil free. And honestly, for a woman in her 30’s I finally have clear skin because I don’t wear make up and have to clean my face with anything other than water and use olive oil to hydrate it. That’s too much for a teen that is still producing plenty of oil for their skin, but it’s a fine balance.

Jennifer - I used Proactiv a million years ago, at least 15. While it didn’t do miracles for my skin, I did want to warn you about the issue I had-it has benzoyl peroxide and you have to be really careful with it. It ruined my towels, my sheets and the front of some of my clothing. I obviously wasn’t careful enough with it, but I ruined a lot of stuff. I found out my breakouts were related to diet coke believe it or not. I love that stuff in spite of all the scary warnings-but as soon as I quit it, my face cleared up.

Susan - I am 38 and have the drugstore version of the clarisonic that is made by olay and i REALLY like it. i keep it in the shower and it’s part of my daily routine. i don’t know how much better the clarisonic would be, but the olay one has been great for my skin, so i would def. recommend it for when the cost of the clarisonic is prohibitive. it might be good for a teen’s acne too.

Michele - I used Proactiv in my early 20’s and it worked…at first. Then it just stopped working. It made bleach stains on my pillows, sheets, shirt/jacket collars, etc! 🙁 I now use Purpose soap and Purpose lotion and my skin is very clear. I think a good diet is key. Try having your kids drink plain lemon water (with a straw to protect their teeth). It’s made a big difference for me. During football season, my son uses Coalface by Lush and it keeps his face clear. It’s just too drying in the winter–right now he uses the Purpose face wipes. Not fun for a teen, but laying off the fries, soda, chips, sugar, etc helps. When my son eats like crap, you can see it on his face!

Cindy - For my daughter, proactive was too strong. We had better luck for her with the Clinique line of acne products. Also, we had a prescription for the doctor…can’t remember what it was, just a topical cream….the most mild form…with all of them, you really have to give it a few weeks to give it to work, which stinks because the kids want their faces clear right now…and then if it doesn’t work, switching and trying new products for a few weeks to see if they work…we also tried neutrogena and clean and clear with not much luck…Clinique worked best for us.

Julie - When I was 13, my mom took me to the Clinique counter at the mall and bought the basic care system for me (the bar of soap, the toner and the lotion). The rule was I had to take care of my face before I could start wearing makeup, and it was impressed upon me that these products were expensive but would only work if I used them diligently. The other rule was, no hands on faces! I was fortunate to not be predisposed to serious acne, but I never had more than an occasional pimple.

I buy bras from Bare Necessities online — and I, too, overbuy, knowing I will send at least a couple back! BN has a good returns policy. I hate searching for bras in the store!

Jenny B. - For a second there, I thought this post was going to be a commercial for Proactiv. HAHA! 🙂

I tried it several years ago, and I didn’t think it was all that. I think it might have helped a little bit, but I quit using it after a few months because it totally bleached out my sheets where they touched my face at night. So… if you do decide to get it for your kids, invest in a bunch of cheap white sheets beforehand.

For the sports bras, I just got a new catalog in the mail… title nine. Have you heard of it? It’s new to me, but they have stores. There’s even one in KS. Anyway, they have some (for us busty girls) that I’m thinking about trying.

Michelle - My son used Proactiv when he was around 15 and it really didn’t work that well. You have to be so thorough with the whole system and he was not good about that. We started ordering from Melaleuca shortly after and their similar product worked much better. Don’t know if you’d heard of this company out of Idaho. They have natural cleaning products, etc. The most significant difference came one lent season and he gave up all beverages and only drank water. He lost 10 pounds and his acne cleared dramatically. I really blame dairy like milk and cheese for most of the problems. My husband, who is 54, even had breakouts and since giving up dairy he no longer does. Happy Craft Weekend!

Flower Patch Farmgirl - I was just wondering about that Clairsonic thing. Everyone raves. But so pricey! So the question becomes: Fun new purse, or Clairsonic? And I’m sure you’ll say Clairsonic b/c blah blah blah, but I’m weirdly leaning purse.

???

Lisa - I use tea tree soap from Goat Milk Stuff. I love supporting the family owned company and it works amazingly!! I would suggest at least trying it before you spend proactive kind of money! It’s all natural so I like that too, proactive was too harsh on my skin and didn’t do much.

ingrid - Proactive. It’s great for mild to moderate acne. My daughter had severe acne and it simply aggravated it. It dried out her skin which just added to the problem. We tried everything from over the counter to prescription meds. The ONLY thing that worked (and the only thing I had trouble saying yes to) was birth control, which ended up being like a miracle cure for her.

Karey - Proactive is the only thing that works for my skin. It didn’t work for me to get the shipments in the mail because I was receiving more than I was using. There is a proactive vending machine in the Wichita towne east mall outside of Dillard’s. I always buy from there and can get the specific product I need when I need it. They do have little trial boxes. You could get one for your kids and let them try it out. Oh, and I love your blog by the way. I live in the same town as you and have run into u sometimes in the north grocery store. I always want to say hi but then feel silly 🙂

Gina - I used to use Proactiv when I was in college and it totally changed my skin! If they actually use it consistently, it will make a huge difference. I think it’s worth the money!

Lori H - Meg, my kids used ProActive for a while and it did seem to work. I consulted our dermotologist and she said that it works because the kids see it as a “program” and therefore use it per instructions. But when used faithfully, most acne products would work as well. One downside to ProActive, my kids are in college and I STILL get regular emails from them asking me to “come back” – even after asking them to stop 🙂

Annette - Love Proactiv…We tried every (EVERY) product/system we could find at Target/grocery/drug store. My tween’s skin was getting worse and worse and she was getting more and more self-conscious. We were on the verge of taking her to a dermatologist when we tried Proactiv as our ‘one last thing’. It worked!!! She is extremely conscientious about using it properly (it’s pricey) and while we saw a noticeable improvement right away, after 4 months of use, her skin is consistently clearer. Occasional breakouts happen, but it is more like a pimple appearing than the eruptions we were used to.

Martha - My son used Proactive and it worked great….at first. It stopped working after a few months. An elderly Hispanic woman that he worked with told him to use honey. We googled it and found a recipe using honey, lemon juice and baking soda. It’s easy, natural and it works! The only draw back is it’s a bit messy but, hey I think it’s worth a try!

Martha - Sport bra- I am a 34f and then only sport bra that I have ever been happy with is the panache. It is the best I am a runner and have been very happy. Worth every penny.

laura oyler - 2 more things I forgot to mention-1. Obagi doesn’t bleach anything like Proactiv apparently does. 2. It is a multiple step system that is supposed to be done 2x a day, but I only do it at night and it still works great for me!

laura oyler - I don’t know much about Proactiv, but I have tried a lot of acne products. I am 19 so I still have teenage acne. My very favorite is the Clenziderm system from Obagi. I use the normal to oily system, but I actually have dry skin so I add in the moisturizer from the dry to normal system. Since I started using it I get way less pimples! I think I have been using it for 1-2 years now. I get it from my esthetician, but you can buy it on amazon too. I believe it is more expensive than proactiv, but I really do love it and it is worth it to me. My mom and 2 of my sisters also use Obagi products. I have lots of tips on how to use it! Microdermabrasion at my esthetician’s office also really helps me get rid of acne and also helps with scarring, but it is a little expensive.

Michelle - When I met my husband, he had extremely bad, cystic acne and had been using Proactive for about 3 months. He was very disciplined about using it, too – he used all the products and followed the directions EXACTLY. Just between you and me, it never did any good.

Changing his diet helped (as a single guy, he was eating a lot of take out, greasy stuff, etc.).

Now we both use just sunflower oil mixed with castor oil (I use the same combination to remove my makeup). We also use Neutrogena Pore Refining Toner. I wash my face at night and use the toner in the morning after I shower. He washes his face at night and immediately uses the toner. In the shower, we both just rub our faces gently with a washcloth.

I had a Clarisonic, but my sister is a microbiologist and she was totally skeeved out at what kind of bacteria could be hanging around in the brush heads. So, I’m back to using washcloths. (I bought 40 white washcloths and 40 white hand towels at IKEA that are ONLY FOR FACES.) I love my husband and childrens to bits, but I don’t want to wash my face with the same cloths they wash their feet with – even if I launder it in between.

Susan - I have used Proactiv for several years and it definitely works. In fact, it worked so well, I thought I didn’t break out anymore. But the minute I stopped using it, I started to break out again. I use the Extra Strength products. I only use the cleanser and the lotion, I skip the toner. Also, I have had no problem with bleaching of my clothing, etc. I even wipe the excess from my hands onto my colored towels, and haven’t had any problem.

Amy - I love the MyChelle teen line for my 12 year old daughter. It has a cleanser, clarifying pads, balancing cream, and a spot treatment.

Love my Mia 2! 🙂

Heather S. - Oh Meg – I used to make fun of people that bought lots of things and then returned them. Then I had children and began teaching and running ministries and I found this year that I am now the woman who orders lots of things FULLY KNOWING I will be returning them. Free shipping, easy returns, etc….I look for it all because I know I’m not keeping it all. Crazy. But, I hear ya on the sports bra thing. You made a good call.

tracy fisher - hi meg. I had to respond regarding teen zits!! haha. my daughter has to keep her skin as clean as possible due to some modeling she’s working on… we LOVE the Mary Kay little trial kit for zit zapping. I can’t remember what it’s called. If you need the info, email me at tfisherart@comcast.net. brooke loves it and I am happy that she loves it. and it is really affordable (that’s really why I like it..haha). teen skin is so fickle. I’ve been away creating a new blog and trying to figure out life in general. i’m back. looking forward to catching up on a month or two of your posts this weekend. tracy fisher

denise @ victory rd. - I went out on a limb and purchased Proactive for my teenage daughter. We’re VERY happy with it. VERY!

Have a blast at Craft Weekend!

Chelsea - Skincare is such a tricky thing. What works for some doesn’t always work for others. I personally couldn’t handle Proactive, it burned my skin like crazy. It also hasn’t done anything for my teens acne, but I know it works for some people. My recommendation would be to see your dermatologist, sometimes taking an antibiotic or getting on accutane is more successful than using an intense line of cleansers. Especially with teenagers who most likely won’t follow all the steps that some of the skincare lines require. Good Luck and I’d love to know what you end up doing…..

Alicia @ La Famille - My brother and sister used ProActiv in their teen years and it really worked for them. They tried everything! Also I want one of those scrubby things.

Michelle Skalet - I used Proactiv for awhile and it seemed to work really well. I had to be careful though because I have sensitive skin and if I’d use it too much… my skin would start to look like leather… especially below my eyes. I later switched to the walmart equate version of Proactiv and I thought it worked exactly the same. It’s less than 1/2 the cost of Proactiv too!

Tracey - Proactiv wasn’t the cure all it claimed for my son and the results definitely did not warrant the cost. Acne free is a bit better. Right now we are trying tea tree and lavender essential oils. These have been the best at helping the cystic looking spots but his face is still pretty broken out. I think we are going to end up going to the dermatologist for a prescription

Bec - Proactiv was really awful for me. It basically burned off the top layer of my skin and left my face raw and dry. Target brand cream cleanser and their blackhead scrub plus a light moisturizer have been my winners. I use the Norwex face cloth as well, but probably not a requirement for kids. Change their pillow cases often 🙂 and push water drinking. Much cheaper than proactiv!

Liz - I’ve used proactive for 2-3 years and it works great. I tried the store brand and didn’t like it. I have sensitive skin and when I started I could only use proactive every other day. I know use it every morning. Love love love it.
I’ve got nothing on the bras. I bought an expensive Athleta one, with an underwire, the underwire popped out. So annoying. I’d love to hear what you find!

Kristin S - Randoms are my fave.

Sports bras. I’m a 34DDDD and hate to bounce. Moving Comfort Fiona is my all time favorite. I don’t like ones I have to maneuver over my head when it’s all wet and sweaty. I sweat. A lot. It has to have a back clasp. They carry them lots of places but I try to hunt for them on sale.
http://www.rei.com/product/718027/moving-comfort-fiona-sports-bra

Have a fantastic weekend!

Tessa - We bought Proactiv for our 13, almost 14 year old son and the biggest problem is getting him to use it. It is a 3 step process and it is recommended that it be done 2x a day. If your kids are not highly motivated in the self-care department, it is not a good fit. I wish we would have just stuck with something much simpler like a quick face wash. As far as its effectiveness? Hard to tell when he is using it so inconsistently! 🙂

Angela - Check out this guide. While you’re there, read the measuring advice as well. So many women wear the wrong size!
http://www.reddit.com/r/ABraThatFits/wiki/sports_bras

Libby - I can’t wait to hear about craftweekend!! I LOVE the entries on Crafting, and what God is doing in your life!!! You are so creative and lovely.

Lori - My 14 yo daughter has used Acne Free (for sensitive skin) for a year and it has worked well for her…try it out it out since it’s easy to pick up locally! Also, if Acne Free doesn’t work for your kids, Clarisonic has a teen kit…more pricey but you already know how awesome it is so it might be worth it!

cheryl - I’ve never used proactiv but my husband has sworn by it for 10+ yrs. He was on accutane as a teenager for acne…and tried every over the counter product under the sun since…and he’s had great results with proactiv. He doesn’t do the whole “3 step system” though…we just get a shipment of 3 bottles of cleanser each time.

Necole@seriouslysassymama - I had acute cystic acne in my early 20’s, and proactive did not work for me. It is probably good for basic teenager acne. I use a glycolic scrub from dermae.

Tanya - My sister has worked in the skin care industry for almost a decade. She said the difference between Pro Activ and grocery store brands is the alcohol content. She said the most comparable thing to Pro Activ you could buy at a grocery store is a bottle of rubbing alcohol. (yikes!) She said it also depends on where the breakouts are happening. If it’s on the forehead it can be because of bangs or hair products or food related digestion issues. Cheeks can be from not washing makeup off. Chin can be hormonal. If it’s for teens – she recommended Clear Start by Dermalogica. You can buy it online or at a spa that carries Dermalogica.

Wendy - I love my Clarisonic!! I use it with Neutrogena Naturals face wash. I’ve never used Proactive for my children but my sister has used it for her daughter with severe acne but with no improvement (and this young lady followed the instructions religiously).

Hailey - First time comment, just found your blog and I love it! But I used proactive for probably 8 months and I found it dried my skin out completely and the bleaching agent in it destroys towels. I still get flack for ruining one of my Gramma’s towels even though I dried my face off on a rag first. It bleaches the colour right out of fabric and it made me wonder what was happening to my face! Just my 2 cents 🙂

Verena - Love the MIA!!! Have mine for almost two years! Use it every day , still going strong. Def.worth it’s money!

Colleen Sullivan - Purpose soap for initial oilness, neutrogeona oil free acne wash as breakouts begin or another product with a salicylate, then add a benzoil peroxide preparation in a tube are the order for non prescription acne meds. Sounds like proactive has a medication close to prescription strength in it as the dermatologist warned us of the same thing re bleaching effect on towels and pillowcases. I use all white anyway so dont notice it! See if your insurance covers the prescriptions as it might be cheaper and potentially more effective if you can find a good dermatologist in your area

Jess Noble - Proactive totally works. I still use it!

Dana - Although I have never used it, I hear Proactiv is great. What about the ten one I am always seeing on the commercials, (X Out) I think that is a proactiv brand too. But U have heard about the bleaching of everything.

Midwest - Has anyone tried the Olay ProX cleansing brush? I’m wondering if it works as well. Even if you had to replace it after a year, it’s SO much cheaper. I’ve been wondering about proactive for my 15 yr old too. So thanks for asking!

Southern Gal - My son suffered from acne. We tried Proactiv, but it wouldn’t touch his. He ended up on Accutane which cleared him up fabulously. It probably works fine for minor acne blemishes.

Marla - I have used ProActiv for about 10 yrs now and I love it. I use the 3-step system(cleanser, toner, lotion) and none of the misc. products that go with it. It has never stopped working for me and I won’t stop using it, even though I’m mid 30’s now. Yes, be sure to use an old towel(or white!) to dry your face afterwards and an old tshirt b/c it will bleach. I say give it a try! And the bottles do last longer than what they say…the 30 days or 60 days, I can usually get to last me an extra month.

stephany - I used proactiv years ago…in my late 20’s early 30’s. It seemed to work. Seems like a lifetime ago, though.

Confession. I have a big crush on Adam.

Have a wonder filled weekend…those women are in for a lot of fun!!!

Jenni - I would recommend Rodan and Fields. It is sold by independent consultants ( I don’t sell it), people have great success with all sorts of skin issues. Here’s my friends info who does sell it: https://eeandersons.myrandf.com/

Kerrin - Hi Meg,
I used Proactive for years and it is worth every single penny. My only warning about it would be this. If you don’t rinse your face well enough you will stain your pillow cases and towels. As in bleach style stain. I recommend white towel, face cloth and pillowcase. Other then that you (If it is for you, please take another look in the mirror cause girlfriend, your skin is amazing!) will love the results you get.
Have a great craft weekend!

Jennifer - I used ProActiv years ago before my wedding, and it worked well for me. It is pretty pricey though. I think I only used it for maybe 6 months.

I have also tried the AcneFree kind, and it worked OK. I felt like ProActiv didn’t dry my skin out as badly, but I didn’t have teenager skin/acne either.

The key to any of it is USING it. Once it became a habit, it wasn’t so bad, but you have to force yourself to do all three steps nightly. I’ve never been very good about keeping up with habits like this, and I know I wouldn’t have done it when I was a teen.

If you’re on the fence about a teenager using it, maybe you could try the store brand and give them 2 months. If they use it consistently for that long and it’s not working (or is too harsh), you could spring for the ProActiv.

I will say the ProActive refining mask is the best thing I’ve ever used. You could put a dab on a zit and sleep with it on, and the zit was gone the next day. Awesome for those times when you break out right before a big event.

Amber Hatcher - If you don’t find a bra that works for you I highly suggest trying Title Nine. It’s a “for women, by women” type of company. If you call them you will get a FEMALE person. Not a computer. They have tons of different bras for varying degrees of support needed. I’ve called them before and when she wasn’t sure she actually went a got the product to look at it while I was on the phone. They’re an awesome company and I’ve always been pleased with them and their product. Good luck!

Margaret - 1) I have to agree with everyone else about ProActiv. It worked for about a year before it seemed to stop and I switched to something else. A few years later my acne was bad enough that I tried it again and it stopped working after about 6 months that time. I bought new towels and realized it bleached them after 1 or 2 uses. So I called it quits with ProActiv for good.
2) I want a Clarisonic so badly. Everyone I know who uses it loves them. I may have to splurge for that soon.

Lauren - I used Proactiv in my awful, ugly teenage years.
Pros: It really does work if you use it religiously. I seriously looked amazing after having used it a couple weeks.
Cons: It tends to stain everything orange (besides white fabric) that touches the face. I ruined sheets and towels and clothes because of it.

Siew - I LOVE my Clarisonic Mia. Its silly, when I rave on about it I get people to touch my cheek, which they think is kind of weird until they see how smooth it is. Like a baby’s bottom. Its the best.

Sara - Oh dear, I’m afraid I’m terribly unhelpful in all things fancy skin-care related. I use a plain bar of soap, that’s it.

BUT, I’m so happy to hear Craft Weekend is happening again!! You ladies have so much fun! I can’t wait to see IG pics 🙂

Vanessa - OK about ProActiv – It works! For a while – and then it’s sort of like antibiotics; if you use it too long then it isn’t as effective. The bad part – the acne gets worse in the first couple of weeks (but then it works!), it turns every washcloth/towel you own bleached so you have to use white for EVERYTHING – including pillow cases. That was the kicker for me! I hated everything being stained and I liked my colored towels/pillow cases! It even stained collars on shirts, but it DOES work!

Ashlea - Go to acne.org and watch the video for their “regimen”. It doesn’t require a specific brand, its just the way you do things! I’ve tried a lot of different products without success, but once I started washing my face and doing what the video says, my skin has been so clear! 🙂 Good luck!

Jenn - I order multiples of things and return all but one all the time. You are not alone.

Good to know about the Clarisonic. I’ve been wanting to get one.

Happy Craft Weekend! One day I’ll be there.

Molly - i had very good luck with proactiv. i had issues from 18 on until i started using proactiv. after a year or so i switched to acne free or the equate brand from walmart. those work too. i would maybe start with those and see if they work if not give proactiv a try. i think it is a little better. i will use these with my daughters when the time comes…even if they aren’t struggling that badly. i think they are just a good system for that time in life.

kimberly oyler - any person on the whole planet that i know who has used proactiv said it quit working after a year.

Beth Ann - I have no need for Proactiv, but Adam MAY have just sold me…….

Do tell which sports bra you end up liking. I have not had much luck. I have considered purchasing luluemon, but ouch on the price and I’d have to order online and have heard bad things about their return policy.

Emily - Love it.
Three things.
1. I use Acne Free every summer (breakout season) and love it. Was about to try Proactive and my friend suggested Acne Free. Takes care of all my issues.
2. Lululemon bras are worth the price.
3. I guess I need a Clairisonic! 🙂
Have a GREAT Craft Weekend! Tell Jess hi!

Jessica Jackson - Bless you for doing the sports bra research! I’ve sent back so many in the last month and still can’t find a perfect one for my D cup (nursing) boobs. Please report back with your favorite!

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meals, answers and a sale

February 25, 2014 Filed in health & fitness,SHOP

so here is my meal plan for week two of the 21 Day FIX.
this is what i love so far – i am a visual person – so when i look at this chart i know that i don’t HAVE to eat chicken if it says chicken.
i see the word chicken but i mostly see the color RED so i know that i can grab chicken out of the frig OR any other protein/meat that i have on hand.

WEEK TWO:
WEEKTWO21DAY
i spelled broccoli wrong on my chart.

also i noticed last night that i categorized dried fruit wrong… oops
don’t tell Autumn.
AND confession… i cracked on annie’s cookies she made this afternoon.
darn it… but man they were yummy!
but that happens and life goes on.
we just pick up from where we screwed up and move on.

the question several people emailed me about was “how are you feeding on your family while working on this plan?”
great question!
something i noticed last week… we are never home!
that makes meal planning difficult… and easy at the same time.
BUT the way i worked it out for OUR family was to cook some things ahead.
i grilled 6 lbs. of chicken one evening, i hard boiled a dozen eggs and i roasted a bunch of broccoli and sweet potatoes.
then i put all of that in the refrigerator and i had food prepped all week for most of my meals.
if my husband isn’t going to be home at dinner time… i rarely make a meal.
it is usually make-your-own meals those nights.  Everyone is able in our house to fix what they want.
i will help them if they need it but they rarely do.
they can also eat that chicken if they would like.
the nights we were home i modified the meal for me – they ate soft tacos… i ate a taco inspired salad with no tortilla, cheese or sour cream.
i make sure to cook extra of the healthy things i served and saved those for the next day’s lunch.
i know my kids won’t want a big spoonful of broccoli so i set out other options too… apple sauce, cottage cheese, yogurt or fruit.
so… my answer is probably not too helpful for you moms that are planners.
but surely you knew i wouldn’t have the answer for you.  🙂  ha ha ha
i am to distracted to have a big plan.

and last tip of the day…. for one of my daily “yellow containers” i use for 16 oz. of unsweetened almond milk and i use it slowly over the whole week in my first cup of coffee in the morning.
i use my frother and make it seem like more than it is and then the rest of the day i drink my coffee black.

ok… moving on from that stuff. ———————————————————————————-

how about a little sale on prints & canvases in my shop?!!
woo-hoo!
saleprint
there are two new prints in my shop!
one of a sleepy Stanley and one of the craft table happiness.

IMG_2201IMG_2597
AND i have the COW and the GLOBES in 16 x 20!!!!

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they are so big and p r e t t y !!!

click over to THE SHOP to use the code 15SALE on all prints AND the canvases too!!
that is a super deal!

 

 

add a comment

Michelle - Love the meal plan. What is Shakeology? And, do you have recipes for your soup, chili or turkey meatballs that you’d be willing to share?

Traci - Oh, I love that pup, and I love those globes! I’m new here and just looking around…I like your stuff!

Teresa - I read your blog all the time but have never commented – BUT – your posts on this program inspired me to sign up for this and I ordered it yesterday! I’m really excited, but nervous about making actual “meals” … so if you want to keep posting your week meal plans I won’t complain 😉 haha

Melissa - THANKS for the sale code. I just ordered the nest print I have had my eye on!! I cannot wait to receive it.

Necole@seriouslysassymama - I am a big meal planner. We are home most evenings,which will be changing starting next week when volleyball and softball start. What helps me is we all eat like birds. I eat a more strict meal for breakfast and lunch, but eat whatever my family eats for dinner which I cook, so is generally healthy. Saves some money that way.

Lisa - Sweet sleepy Stanley. Love that craft table – Happiness is an appropriate description.

Michele - How long is the sale going on?

Kathy - Our meals sound JUST like yours! Hubby works some evenings so it’s just me and my girls and we’re often rushing bc we have to get to sporting events in the evenings … so we do the whole make your own thing many nights too – or we make something super simple like sandwiches and soup. I love that we’re not the only family in this season of life!! =)

April R - I am so inspired by your photography skills.
Light, color, life – all captured so beautifully.
Happy Wednesday 🙂

Sheri - I need the cow…llike NEED the cow

Southern Gal - The Craft Table Happiness print reminds me of the jigsaw puzzles I used to do with my grandmama all the time. I haven’t thought of that in a while. Thanks.

Liz M - I am not in your 21 day group, but am doing this challenge because of you. I vote for a 21 day challenger craft weekend! Crafting and planking…what could be better?

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sunday morning.

February 23, 2014 Filed in family fun,health & fitness,random,sports

well… i am writing from starbucks this morning.
talby has a volleyball tournament again and she has a two game break so i snuck over here for wifi.
and coffee of course.
IMG_3714
this is talby’s first time playing club volleyball.
it is good for her… she seems to like it a bunch… great group of girls.  🙂
we were all together for a few of her games last weekend… that’s FUN!
IMG_3717IMG_3719
and my week continued on with basketball games.
they are still undefeated!  Pretty excited for these boys!  Can’t wait to see how far they can take it this year.IMG_3811
update on the 21 Day FIX… i AM LOVING it!
for the first time in my life i think possibly i have worked out seven days straight?!
whaaaaat?
the workouts are only 30 minutes!
the meal plan – i rocked it.
i posted my plan earlier last week and i am going to make my week 2 meal plan today.
i will share it again and i will answer a couple of questions i had about meal planning with kids in mind also.

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i thought an all hot pink workout gear day was necessary for yesterday.
i needed some motivation since i didn’t do my workout in the morning… i kept putting it off.
so PINK to the rescue!

stanley is the most patient and fun little puppy!
PicMonkey Collagestan1stan2stan3
he just loves attention of any kind… even if it means dancing to annie’s sing-a-long.

ok…. gotta get back for the next game.
have a SUPER sunday!

add a comment

Heather - Um you look so skinny I thought that. Selfie was Lauren. 🙂

Lisa - We spent all weekend at my 12 yr olds volleyball tournament too. We love watching her play! They lost in the championship which was hard. She had some tears over that. Fun to watch them play so hard! And glad she loves the game enough to care! Glad you had all the family there for some of it! So fun to all be together cheering on their sister!

Mindy - You are a great motivator with sticking to your healthy routine! I love the pictures with the dog. I have to admit to dancing with a patient doggie a time of two myself : )

Library Momma - Legs look great! Good for you!!

Carrie - I have never noticed how much you and Lauren look alike until the family picture of you all, and then the pink picture of you. With your hair back, you two are twins! 🙂

Lisa - I think it’s great that your whole family goes to each member’s games/events! A supportive family is awesome! 🙂

Jessica R - I was reading blogs this morning (and delaying my workout) and when I got to your review of 21Fix and your picture, I immediately put down my iPad, changed into my workout clothes and went for a run. True story. THANK YOU for the inspiration. You look so great!

Tiffany - ^^That’s Congrats!^^

Tiffany - Gongrats on 7 days. Do I hear 7 more? Good luck to you.

Aimee D - Meg, you are looking super skinny these days! I mean in a good way. lol

Stacy P. - LOVE volleyball! And I love Stanley. 🙂

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