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gingerbread housing.

December 31, 2013

one
we spent a night over at the Craft House last week before christmas.
we knew a storm was coming in so we thought getting snowed in at that Craft House sounded like fun.
and it was!
we ate dinner, made a fire in the fireplace and made the gingerbread houses.
i bought the kits from World Market…. so easy.
and i always get some extra candy too.

two
then we watched a christmas movie by the fire.
it snowed all evening… so pretty.

to quote annie while we worked on the houses (and snacked on candy)

“who would’ve ever thought of gingerbread to be made of art?”

round about way of saying she was happy to be creating… even with food!

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Julia - One trick I learned a few years back is to hot glue the gingerbread house pieces together. It’s instantaneous so you don’t have to wait for the frosting to dry and hope the walls are aligned. We don’t eat our gingerbread houses after the holidays.

I bought some extra cans and tubes of frosting to use, too.

Interesting idea of blowing the gingerbread houses up with firecrackers- maybe a New Year’s activity!

Janna - Waiting to hear what your word is:)
For the first time I chose a word…or it chose me…and I am taking ali’s class and I can’t wait!

Nurture is my word for 2014

Iris - My word for 2014 is eucharisteo.

tara - they’re beautiful.
how fun that you guys hang out at the craft house when you feel like it.

we didn’t make gingerbread houses this year…i think i was more devastated than the kids, although they did mention it at least 1/2 dozen times!

the flu hit us hard, and most of our traditions just had to be let go…
except for snuggling while watching movies…that one stayed! And, we did it over and over and over and over.

happy new year, meg!

Sydney - Wow, those are some very fancy and pretty gingerbread houses. (Look tasty too!) That snow was pretty and it was about four inches, enough to make our Christmas white which was what my kiddos wanted. (We live in Eastborough)

andria - I use all the Halloween candy we don’t like ie) rockets, sweet tarts, skittles etc… for our gingerbread houses……. also, you can use regular cake frosting in a can for building houses and decorating – works amazing – holds the houses together no problem and tastes much better than royal icing or the stuff that comes in the kits….

Wendy - They are all adorable – being snowed in like that sounds fun! I’m curious…do you make extra icing? I never feel like the kits have enough icing. If so, what kind works best?

Barbara (WA) - Kids of friends of ours used to make gingerbread houses every year. Then after Christmas, they got to blow them up with firecrackers saved from the 4th of July!!! That was way more fun than eating them – a great idea, I think!

Meg - We made gingerbread men from the kits you can buy… pretty sure there was plastic somewhere in the recipe. They tasted HORRIBLE! Are you supposed to eat them? Probably not… even the dog wouldn’t touch them. It’s definitely a fun family event making them though!

tricia w. - You are such a great Mom!

Laura - LOVE how she phrased that…not that art can be gingerbread…but gingerbread can be art!

it IS all art…isn’t it?
food, family, creating, snow fall….
all of it art.

you are so smart, annie.

would be fun to get our kids together again and let them create, while we do margarita art!

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the big surprise.

December 26, 2013

a few weeks ago i was tucking annie into bed and i asked her
“what would be THE BEST best absolutely BEST thing you could imagine opening on christmas morning?”
she thought for a second and then said “iPhone 5”
i said “ummm…. that is a no. what is the second best thing?”
“well… i think a pet. i would say a dog but dad would never say yes to that so i guess i would like an iguana.”

she is so funny.

so that night i told craig what she had said… and i started looking for a puppy.
i texted a bunch of people asking if anyone knew of any puppies that would be ready at christmas
and within a day i had these pictures from facebook and i was already in love.
puppy1-tiff puppies2-tiff
i mean…. COME ON!! look at those babies?!!

i drove out to pick one from the group of 9 brothers & sisters.
they were a surprise litter of puppies from a mama who was supposedly fixed.
oops.
i chose the lightest one because i thought he looked the most like Waffle.
it was so hard to leave them there… i wanted to keep them all!
(remember that scene in Bridesmaids where Megan took all the puppies in her mini van… ha ha ha)

and then i had to wait and keep a secret for weeks!
it was not easy.
craig & i picked him up on monday and brought him to a friend of ours for the night.
i took some selfies with him while craig drove us there. 🙂
he was trembling and so scared… i cuddled with him a bunch.
puppylove
then the next day, christmas eve, they took him to another friends house for the night.
(i have the best friends!)

and on christmas morning our friends drove over to our house.
i went out to their car with my gift wrapped rubber maid box and we stuck the puppy inside.
i gave her a big hug and went inside to deliver “one more present that i forgot we had for everyone”

it was the ultimate surprise!!!
they never saw it coming.

everyone is crazy in love with Stanley.

stanners running
best christmas.

EVER.

and waffle is already showing him how to be a good dog.
waffle is such a lover… nothing phases him.
we are trying to give him lots of attention too so he doesn’t feel like the forgotten older child.

so much fun at our house this week.

i hope your christmas was wonderful!

and because i know you will be asking… we think he is a labrador.
but if he isn’t… we don’t care.
we love hime no matter what he is.

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Why Christmas was Awesome | a glass of milk - […] wasn’t the kind of awesome where everything was perfectly decorated or someone unwrapped a puppy. It was the kind of awesome that you get from a nice, low-key day, where the gifts are […]

jennibell - That was the *best* gift!!! I love, love, love that first b&w you posted of the kids and dog — absolute adoration on their faces. Beautiful. The video is something you will always treasure. You’re GREAT parents 🙂

Karen - That was seriously the cutest thing to witness! So glad you shared!

Lisa - Stanley is so precious!!!! Glad he and big brother Waffle are hitting it off! 🙂

Rebecca Torzewski - He is so stinkin’ cute. With all the gadgets that kids want nowadays, Iphones,Ipads, Kindles, etc., it is so heartwarming to see them all playing with a puppy on Christmas. Thanks for sharing! Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas.

jerusalem - So fun! Miles has been begging for a Lizard and Sweet Man has been saying no. But he changed his mind for Christmas – pretty great to see how excited Miles was! Welcome to the internet Stanley!

Jessica - That is one very loved pup! Your family is so adorable. I loved how they were all trying to be the first one to hold him. What a fun Christmas gift! 😀

CathyC - SWEET!!!!!

Melinda - I loved how that little puppy brought all your kids together. Quickly, right to the sofa, laughing and bonding, Amazing. What a fun Christmas.

Kimberlee Jost - I loved seeing this post this morning.
So fun…and hey, those are some amazing secret powers Annie has.
Going to have to work on the powers that be around here!

Michelle Whitlow - Oh my gosh, how ADORABLE!!!! Your kids and the pup 🙂

KirstenP - Aw, Meg, thanks so much for sharing the puppy-for-Christmas surprise with us! I loved watching the kid’s reactions on the video. Did any of them cry? Cool how the older kids got out their phones right away to take photos. Many sweet photos! Love the puppy in the sunny, snowy outdoors.

We tried your Crescent Chicken recipe tonight after seeing someone post on facebook. And, you’re right, I had all the ingredients on hand. We loved it. Thanks for sharing it.

Danielle - So cute!!! I keep teasing my husband about the need to get me a puppy. Thankfully he know me and knows I do not want the work right now. I just love the idea of a puppy. They are so cute!

Breenah - Both of your dogs are so cute! I can’t wait til we get a house because a puppy is going to be one of the first additions!

Heather - Oh.My.Goodness…I am in love with Stanley! What a wonderful & memorable surprise! Lucky kids & lucky dog! 🙂

julie - You just brightened my day! Your kids are as cute in their responses to the surprise as Stanley’s sweetness is! Congrats on the newest member of your family!

Lesley - Best.
Present.
EvEr!!
I thought you were the best surpriser after the Taylor Swift episode but this beats everything! Lifelong memories made!!! xox

Angela A - He’s adorable! I love that on the video the older kids start pulling out their phones to take pics. I CANNOT show this post to my children because then they will hate all their presents and only have one thing on their list next year. But maybe that wouldn’t be such a bad thing.

kimberly oyler - annie’s reaction is priceless! this is so cute meg! thanks for sharing!

Terrie G - Oh.My.Goodness. I Love Stanley too! Our new-to-us dog, Meg, doesn’t have that kind of energy. Of course, I’m not so sure I have the energy to train right now anyway. But, he sure does make me want to go out and find a pup for our new 5 year old adoptee! What a fun Christmas for your family! And Stanley too!! Can’t wait to see more of him and hear all about his antics…’cause I’m sure there will be some! 🙂 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family Meg!!

tammy - a little sad he wasn’t named Pancake!

Amy - What a cutie! We can’t wait to add a dog back into the family. Once the toddler’s potty trained I think it will become more of a reality but these puppy cuties make it tough to wait!

Gina - The photos and video say it all!! I have a big smile on my face!! 😀

Lori - Merry Christmas Meg (yah…I few days late). What a fun Christmas surprise. Such a cutie and with that sweater. Awww! Love the pics with the girls in the snow. Sweet!

beth - I LOVE this post….and Stanley? Adorable. Favorite parts- the video and when one of your boys says “whose is he”? and the picture right below the video—omgoodness!!! And the way one of the boys immediately blurts out Stanley for the name and then I guess it stuck?

: )

how’s the house breaking going?

tara - oh my goodness.
best present ever.
i bet she would choose stanley over an i-phone5 any day!!

ira lee - the best reaction!!! they were all so suprised!!! i loved the video!!

Amanda - Small Home Big Start - What a wonderful Christmas morning surprise! Your family will always remember the year they got Stanley. Love the little Christmas sweater he’s wearing. So sweet.

jen - what an awesome surprise!!! so fun! definitely a happy christmas!

Tab - This actually brought tears to my eyes. Love this. Perfect surprise for a Christmas morning!!

alicia @ la famille - what a great surprise!!! i so want to do this someday…but not when we have a baby. what kind of a dog is is waffle?? he’s such a lover.

Southern Gal - Love it!

Stephanie - Awww! I have tears in my eyes! He is the cutest puppy and all your kids loved him! My kids would……I can’t even describe the reaction if they got a puppy. Good job, mom and dad!

ann - I was hoping for a holiday post amd you did not disappoint!!! I am a longtime lurker amd enjoyer of the blog and Instagram. Keep posting! Congrats on Stanley.

Cori Scales Angelino - We have London, who is 13 weeks, and a golden/yellow lab mix. Mama rejected her so we’ve had her since she was 5 weeks old. You are in for an amazing time filled with fun! What lovers they are!!

Brittany - SO cute!!!! Surprising them is the best. LOVE it! They will always remember that. Merry (belated) Christmas!

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christmas crafts… YAY!

December 23, 2013

one of our first projects we made was wreath ornaments.
we used the best thing i could find… letter Os.
we painted them green and let them dry.

we tried to make all different kinds just for fun.

these two are pom poms and yarn or pipe cleaners.

these are glitter, yarn in knots, and then felt holly leaves.
i have this puffy yarn that my great aunt used in her crafting years and years ago.
i am quite sure it is at least 30 years old.
we wrapped it round and round for one ornament.
we glued crumpled up tissue paper squares for another wreath.
and then made another one with pom poms.

these are cute as gift toppers too.

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Kelly - I like the tissue paper one best! Cute!! Kelly

Carrie - Merry Christmas! Thank you for sharing with us all year long! Such a treat!

April R - Sweet! Happy Christmas!

Kj@letsgoflyakite - Using letter O is so clever, love all the different materials. Merry Christmas to you!

Molly - so simple! yet so cute!!!

stephany - YAY!
The kids and I have been doing some of your crafts from years past…this one will be on our list for next year!
Thanks for your inspiration!
Merry Christmas, Meg!

Jaimie - They turned out adorable!

Thanks for sharing!

A Very Merry Christmas to you and yours!

Julie - Love those puffy wool wreaths. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family.

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let me update you.

December 17, 2013

first update: THE CRAFT HOUSE. PARTYPEOPLE
boom.
you girls are filling the Craft House weekends up like nobody’s business!
i am so pumped about that!!
i had a lot more questions about it so i am going to leave the sale ongoing through december 31st.

How about i offer the January 31 – Feb 2 date for $1000?
who will fill that weekend?
i think it should be YOU are your girlfriends!

Reserving the Craft House for a weekend is $1500 for up to 16 guests.
but if you book any 2014 date NOW… you can get it for just $1200.
look at your calendars… get your girls together and meet up at the Craft House!

January 31 – Feb 2
February 14 – 16
March 7 – 9
March 28 – 30
April 25 – 27

all of these dates are soon enough that you can be getting excited right now!
they are all that is left in the next four months.

but if you need more planning time (husbands and childcare and all that jazz…) pick a summer or fall date and get your savings now!

think how nice it will be to have something on the calendar FOR YOU.

if you are thinking about planning an event or workshop… now is the time. 🙂

———————————————————————————————————————————————————

second update: #32in44

on dec 7 my friend and i ran in the Jingle Bell 4 mile run for the third year.
it was 3* degrees.
you read that correctly… THREE degrees.
but we had been planning on it and preparing for it and honestly… it was no big deal at all.
she brought hand warmers for inside our gloves (which eventually i even took out because i was too warm)
we each had on three pairs of pants, two pairs of socks, four shirt layers, and everything but our eyes covered.
i ran the entire way and it was the best Jingle Bell Run i have done yet.
11 minute pace… for me that is great!
Di slows way down for me and i greatly appreciate that.
and then we went to the spa for the rest of the day. jingle
but then the next day i got really sick (i claim they are unrelated) and was out for many days.
so there is no way i will make my #32in44 BUT that is ok and i will still keep trying hard.
and you should too if you can.
we will feel so much better about everything if we keep exercising and eating well… right?

i think so.

————————————————————————————————————————————

third update: christmasy stuff.

still no more decorating has happened.
and it is 100% ok.
i am setting up a craft table after this blog post for when the girls get home from school today.
it will be such a nice surprise.

as far as christmas shopping goes… i feel like i have a good handle on it all.
the buying is all done.
it is an odd feeling… but a good one.
AND i have some REEEEEEALLLY good gifts that i am so stinking excited to give.

each of the kids got their own time shopping with me or with dad to pick out their gifts for their siblings.
one on one time is always different and nice.
momdate
annie bought herself a cake pop maker this weekend during our sibling shopping time.
she was beyond excited, carrying it around the store dreaming up all the cake pops she would create and talking non stop. cakepop
i think it was a good choice!
many cake pops are in our future!

we went to check out christmas lights this past weekend also.

this picture is awful but i don’t ever want to forget sean having a full on laugh attack when we got out of the car.
he could not stop.
he was crying he laughed so hard.
it was hysterical.
donut
looking at christmas lights always goes best with donuts.
it’s a fact.

now… time to get the crafts set up.

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Nanette - WOW!!! So inspired that you did that run in 3 degrees!!! I need to start running – I always seem to have an excuse not to start – but you are an inspiration. You have weather, kids, pets and lots of jobs and you make it happen. Way to go!!!

Sydney - I also want to mention the display on Stratford that is synced with music. Wichita has some great lights! My kids LOVE to go several times each year.

Gail - Brr, I ran that frigid run too.even though it was cold, it was fun.

gale - So glad you are having a relaxing and peaceful season – isn’t it great to simplify? 🙂 Okay, I did really enjoy the Craft House “Christmases past” pics – cuz we all know you can rock it if you want to – but sometimes, it’s fun to just rest and enjoy the easier version…and this seems to be that year for lots of us!

Love the pics of your kids enjoying the season – and Annie? Precious!

Merry Christmas, Megan! 🙂 Thanks for letting me be part of your year at WCW – it is one of my BEST memories of 2013!!

Tanya - I don’t know if I’ll ever get over how cute Annie is. Truly 🙂

Laura H - Oh Meg! I just love your posts! I check EVERY single day to see if you wrote something new. Your family is lovely! I love the pink scarf you are wearing! With the button! How very chic! Do tell us where you got it!
Merry Christmas to you and yours! xo

Lisa - Just last night I laughed so hard I cried! Hadn’t done that in way too long! Wish I could rent the craft house… Such a good deal you are offering!

Michelle - Awww you were Christmas light looking just up the street from me 🙂 I hope you knew about the house on Lawrence Ln off 13th!

Jenn - Your posts always make me smile….thank you!

Necole@seriouslysassymama - How fun! I love looking at lights, and laughing so hard I cry. I dearly love to laugh!

Kristin S - Sean and Annie’s laughing faces are identical! Captured moments for sure.

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living vicariously…

December 12, 2013

so we have a tree up.
and the kids decorated it.
and… nothing else.

please tell me that with a few of you i am not alone.
some years you just can’t get that knock-it-out-of-the-park decorating done.
i want to.
but i want to do a million other things too so for now… in this rental house… it’s going on the back burner.
so other more important things can take my physical and emotional energy.
like crafts… we are doing those.
and if you are a crafty person you know that making crafts with kids take ENERGY.

so i was looking at lovely homes on pinterest and found some beauty to live vicariously through their decorating this year.
i also decided it is THE LIGHT that i am drawn in by, not necessarily the colors.
LOTS of natural light is a really big deal to me.

i was really loving this Christmas home tour at cuckoo4design .
i am usually all color and pattern but this one was so lovely!
there is still color and pattern it’s just not IN YOUR FACE.
she looks like a lot of fun!

how cool is that christmas tree?!!!
i LOVE it… i think she said she dressed up the ikea version.
but i haven’t been in an ikea for MONTHS and won’t get to for another many months so i don’t think it’s in my future to be picking one up.
it is so neat!

and that previous post led me over to this one at Finding Home.
the colors!
i think i need a white tree in my life.
i actually saw one a month ago at the thrift store and i left it there.
there is truly no excuse for it.
it is one of those things i will remember forever.
i have lists of things like that which i regret forever not grabbing when i could… the white tree will be one for the record books.

i always love ashley’s style at The Handmade Home.
a yarn covered hula hoop? awesome.

and then i found Candice’s home featured on Design Mom…
G O R G E O U S.

i love the black.
is black the new white?

then these were all in the top faves too…

pretty1
source and source pretty2
source and source pretty3
source and source pretty4
source and source pretty5
source and source

and then i went to look back at my past posts… and i missed living in the Craft House big time.
well, i do and i don’t.
i really think i miss having the energy and time to do these kinds of things.
it will come back.
i hope it comes back…. my mojo i mean.
either way we can all look at the way i decorated a few years ago and smile.
(and think to ourselves “wow she was really on her game… a few years ago…” ha ha ha)

i almost feel inspired to get decorating now.
but… i need a shower.
and i left my phone at the craft house last night when i went there to wrap presents.
and my kitchen looks like it exploded.
so i wil just read this post again and call it good.

but next year….
christmas 2014.
look out!
it’s going to be like buddy the elf the night before santa came to gimbels.
yes.
that good.
ha ha ha..

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tara - i went super simple this year, and it felt so good and clean….
my mojo has been lost temporarily, too.
all of my kids went to school this year, and it’s JUST NOW hitting me how much of an adjustment it has truly been for me.

you’d think i would have had more energy, but it was the opposite. i completely shut down. for real.

you’re a fun mom…you’re doing a great job….your mojo will come back for certain things, if it’s supposed to. sometimes we lose our mojo in areas because we’re suppose to. 🙂

Lynda Anderson - So inspiring. I love the bulbs in the glass containers. It’s 12/20 and I have lights only on 3/4 of my tree … still have a Halloween table runner in the entry way and haven’t finished shopping! Thank you for this blog and the relaxation and enjoyment it gives me! Merry Christmas!!

Debi - so this year i just let my 16yo daughter and some VISITORS, traveling basketball team girls…not even people I know!, decorate our tree and living room. I am just soooo tired. At least the shopping is done. It doesn’t feel like me at all and the same old tired decorations… but they had fun and … did I mention the shopping is done?

alicia @ la famille - I saw Shanon’s comment about rental houses being mojo suckers…so stinking true. This is my third Christmas in a row in this townhouse we’re renting and it is sooo hard for me. I look at Pinterest and blogs and its almost painful how much I miss that…I feel like I can’t be ME right now. Its hard. I want 2014 to be my Buddy the Elf year too, but I said that last year and never would have thought I’d be right here in the same place this year. Am I depressing you yet? 🙂 I just hope I get my mojo back someday….

tasha roe - I’m so glad you posted this!! SERIOUSLY THRILLED!! I put the old tree up and let the kids have at it and that’s it. I’m usually the one with the house decked out to the hills before thanksgiving. Too many big things going on and i don’t have the energy, and quite frankly it will be covered in drywall dust before it gets put away.
sigh…… Love the pictures and inspiration!
thanks for making me feel normal. 🙂

Jenny Wenzel - I am glad I am the only one who hasn’t had the energy or drive to go all out this year! I keep seeing all these lovely pics of houses all done up looking clean and perfect…kind of gets me down…this was good for me to read!

Jennifer Dawn - Oh thank goodness! I am not the only one. We have a tree. That’s it. LOL! I think I will live vicariously through your post too. Last year I went overboard decorating as early as October. Yes, that’s right…October! My dad had just passed away and I needed something happy and cheerful. I think I was overcompensating. A year later…I just kinda have a case of the bah humbugs. I keep threatening to get the rest of the Christmas stuff out, but like you…there are other things that have come first.

Gretchen P - our tree has been up for 2 weeks, and it just got decorated yesterday. Other than that, we have nothing else done. I don’t even have my son’s stocking out. I’m glad he is almost 14, and knows the true reason for Christmas, so it is not a big deal.

Talia - Thank you for such an honest post! I didn’t put up the tree this year as we won’t be home for Christmas. The rest of the house is decorated but very simply. I just can’t come home to a tree.

flowerpowermomma - relax and enjoy your simpler holiday season. everyone. Christmas is a time for love.

Patty - I know how you feel! I felt that frazzled every year, tree up at the last minute, lots of knick – knackie stuff to put up, all of it with no intention.

Then my daughter went to her first year of college and it was worse because we did so much of it together ; (

Well for her sophomore year, I declared that by the end of Thanksgiving weekend when she went back to school, the tree had to be up, decorated and we had to be done with decorating or we would have to resort to the dreaded fake tree. The Christmas season has been so much better, less rushed, with more creative time together.

Some years the mojo is just not there…. that’s okay. Just go with it and it’ll be better next year ; )

Ali - I am in love with the gumball machine print in your shop. I neeeed it. I also totally think you should add a print of it filled with your vintage ornaments. I would totally buy that too. I love your style!!!

andrea - I also agree about the natural light. That is probably why i love older homes – more and bigger windows. This is also why i love your pictures from the craft house – all the light. (And your great decorating of course!)

andrea - You make me laugh! Yesterday my 11yo daughter said “Momma you do know that Christmas is just the Wednesday after this? And we don’t even have a tree?!?” Ha. I just took the pumpkins off the front porch three days ago. My husband & i just purchased most of our Christmas gifts Friday night online. Still have stocking stuffers to get & take the kids to get theirs for each other. And haven’t baked the first cookie. Sigh. I need to stop writing this down; now i am feeling overwhelmed.

chris - Oh Meg you’re not alone , I have nothing but my porch decorated for Christmas at all as I started a complete family room reno at the beginning of December just a completely new coffered ceiling and ripped out the carpet and installed new detailed pine flooring, no big deal Christmas will wait…what was I thinking. I should put up a tree somewhere shouldn’t I, Tuesday I will that’s my goal anyway.
Glad I found your blog again.
Chris

Linda - You are not alone. No tree up yet. But I am loving my family! We actually ate together every night this week. Busy teens you know. The adult kids are gone. Our new normal. I can’t wait for next year either. It’s our turn for Christmas!!

Heather - I found this on Pinterest & I think you’ll need to make this rainbow scarf with your girlies! It’s all finger knitting so it’s pretty easy! 🙂

http://diy-projectss.blogspot.com/2013/12/diy-finger-knitted-scarf.html

Linda - I passed up a silver tree once. Always regretted it. It was just a time in my life when I didn’t have another $20 Your home a few years ago is what has inspired my decor. I loved all the jars of Christmas balls. So beautiful and reflective of the light. Which here in the Northwest we need that! SO that’s all I do anymore. lights, christmas balls and a simple nativity. We focus on traditions and family experiences! Merry Christmas!!!

Kristi - I am so with you this year. I just got a little decorating done, only because I had people coming over. I also let my 4 year old single-handedly decorate the tree. (Until her father got home and helped her get the top branches.) I still have a list of things I need to make and then another that I would like to sit down and do with my daughters. Those are top on my to do list right now. I love the inspiration photos that you posted. The ones of yours too! Some of those are on my pin board as well. And I think that there is nothing wrong with living vicariously and letting someone else do the work at times. That way we can focus on the important things, like taking naps! :o)

Jennifer Cole - Meg – I love your honesty and I love this post. Yes, the pictures of the other houses are pretty – but not as pretty as the craft house decorations. The craft house is one of the cutest places I have ever been – even without Christmas. I don’t think your kids will remember if the rent house was perfect or not, but they will remember the time spent with you. And they will appreciate the reasons you moved your life to the rent house. Seasons. We all have seasons. And Buddy was pretty much psycho. Merry Christmas!

Cindy - Spend time with your kids, do fun things. That is what they will remember not how the house was decorated. They grow up & leave home too quickly, then you’ll have more time to decorate. Plus, you will have a lot less “”stuff” to pack up & put away in January!!! Wishing you & your family a Christ filled Merry Christmas!!!
Cindy

Mommyjulia - Those first few pics are lovely. But my faves are yours! I completely understand not having a lot of decorating done this year. I’m super sicko, pregnant with twins & am not going to do nearly as much this year. But you’re right, there’s always next year (though next year I will have 4, 4 & under to contend with!) Merry Christmas! Love seeing you craft with your girls 🙂

Mindy - Love so many of these pictures – especially the top two. I know a lot of people who have scaled back this year in decor.

Jenn - I hear ya! Just tapped out. Next year, next year will be epic! I think that’s the first time I’ve ever used that word…hah!

Bethany - My tree and an outdoor garden flag were the only Christmas decorations at my house until a few days ago. I had been so busy it just hadn’t gotten done. I’m hosting a holiday craft sale at my house today and tomorrow so I kind of HAD to get some decorating done. Still, I have kept it simple and not spent a lot of time or effort on it and it still looks nice. But whatever I get done, it will have to be good enough because I still have some Christmas shopping to do and a few gifts to sew. 🙂

Beth Ann - My Christmas Decorating mojo is missing this year as well! We moved into a new house and I haven’t even finished decorating it so the thought of putting ‘temporary’ decorations up is just too much for me this year. we have a tree, and some bulbs in bowls and a few trees outside decorated with lights, but that is as far as I have gotten or I am going to worry about. I am *TRYING* really hard to just enjoy the season, but it takes effort for me. I always get so grouchy with all of my ‘To-Do’ lists while my husband and children skip around merrily, completely oblivious to all the effort that I am putting in to create the “magic of the season”. Perfect gifts for teachers, co-workers, friends, family, bus drivers, bosses on stop of snacks & treats for company and friends and parties. Perfect wrapping of gifts, decorating, plate of cookies for Santa. The dang Elf on the Shelf. I am trying not wish the days away and enjoy the magic moments that happen each days with the kiddos. So this year my hands are in the air and anything goes. My father in law arrives tonight from DC and I am not even going to worry about the fact that there are legos all over the floor, dirty floors, clean laundry on the couch waiting to be folded. I am just going to go with it…..

Lisa - People who have the time, energy, money, talent and creativity to decorate so beautifully amaze me! All of these homes are gorgeous. I didn’t have one gift bought until yesterday. I’m right there with you. Feeling so behind, tired and not able to do all I would want. But! I am trying to create some fun family time. Movie nights watching our favorite Christmas movies. Hot chocolate after school. Talking about Jesus… I think each year is different and that’s ok. It’s hard when you feel like you’ve lost your mojo though! Merry Christmas!

Kelly - Every time I pile some of my shiny brites in a container and set it somewhere I think of you. 🙂 Kelly

Kristen Kerwin - Meg – to the woman whom I MOST ADORE AND ADMIRE on the inter webs…regardless of what your mantle looks like this year. You are beautiful because God made you extra shiny. Your home is amazing because it’s a gorgeous reflection of your heart, and your family. Your family is the bomb, because you follow God and you are real and you don’t need to make things extra shiny because you are fabulous exactly the way you are. Life and decorating and crafts (I agree! Exhausting! My 4 blessings just can’t seem to keep the glitter glue on the project! ARGH!) come and go in seasons…but you will remain you, and that is a wonderful person to be. You inspire me and my family (my girls love to see all of the pictures you post – thank you for sharing!), and I am blessed to read your blog…it really adds joy to my days, and I know it’s not easy…so thank you. Merry Christmas, sis…and I will pray for you as I pray for me to embrace the beautiful chaos!!!! 🙂

Angela - Meg, I found one of those ikea trees on ebay so no need to go to the store. 🙂

I always look at all your December posts, I am always so inspired by them. I actually just looked at them yesterday! lol And yes I always think, holy cow, she has 5 kids and did all that!

Tiffany - You are cracking me up.
“either way we can all look at the way i decorated a few years ago and smile. (and think to ourselves “wow she was really on her game… a few years ago…” ha ha ha)” – priceless. Let’s raise our glass and toast to Meg’s Buddy Elf Style Christmas in 2014, Cheers!

the.mrs - Feel better, dear! I don’t even have a tree up. Or ONE SINGLE decoration this year! We just bought our first house, so we have been ridiculously busy with that bad boy. We WILL get one up.. tomorrow.. or the next day… haha. My kids asked if they would still get presents if we didn’t put a tree up! *tear

Cassie - Last Christmas my husband had just finished his last round of chemo and was in remission. I had no energy to decorate, but we were very happy. This year I still don’t want to drag the tubs up from the basement. I have one lovely lighted decoration out and am ok with that. More importantly, I got the Christmas spirit back. I had been majorly bah-humbug this year until last Sunday. We sang Little Drummer Boy at church and “I have no gifts to bring” struck me….what do I have to bring? Immediately I knew…..a better attitude to honor His birth. It’s made all the difference. I don’t feel guilty about not decorating, and I still have time if I want to decorate. Have a Merry Christmas! You have a beautiful home(s) and family and are a blessing to us, your readers!

beth larson - W-O-W those are amazing photos Meg….great decorating and great photography! thanks for sharing~

Katie - Just wanted to say we can’t do it all. This year with having my 5th bundle of joy I chose 3 – 4 things to focus on during this season. When I am tempted to do more I go back and look at my initial list. That has been helpful.

Julia@Cuckoo4Design - Thanks for the shout out! There’s so much inspiration in your post loved seeing all the other photos!

Shannon - Ha. That’s supposed to be super simply, not supper simple.

Shannon - We went supper simply this year too. We had a new roof put on the house yesterday and our family leaves for two weeks in Rwanda on Christmas Day. So this year many of the things I usually do were left undone. One strand of lights around our front door, that was done because of pressure from the kids. No real tree; just our little artificial one and it has about 10 ornaments on it. Two were given to us this year and the rest the kids and I made from paper. I did put up our stocking and hung some ornaments from our lights. It’s amazing how simple it is but how much I still really enjoy it. So much so I’m thinking of purging one both of Christmas stuff at the beginning of the year. I know I’ll be even more motivated after we come back from our trip. I also LOVE seeing Ashley on here. We went to college together and she is as amazing as she sounds on her blog.

Jen - Two thoughts: One: ENJOY this season! Someday when the “Craft House” has run its course and the kids are older, you’ll be so happy for the time you spent doing crafts and helping other ladies to do the same. After all, every “stage” has its pros and cons!

Two: stay away from Pinterest, especially if you’re already feeling inadequate! 🙂 I find I really have to be careful about my blog/pinterest time. It can lead to such discontentment. And I know that’s MY problem-not the fault of the “inter webs”.

Hope you can relax and enjoy this season. After all, Christmas isn’t about the glitter and lights. Jesus came without any of that–and HE saved the world! 🙂 Merry Christmas, Meg!

amy jupin - i feel like this with my whole LIFE.
seriously.
where the crap is my mojo??
it’s like i WANT to do ALL the things but i DON”T want to do ANY of the things!
i think your mojo and my mojo are off in hawaii or somewhere together having a pina colada!
send help.

Gina - I am in the same boat as you, so here I go to read your post again :).

Amy K. - You are ahead of me!! Our tree is up, no lights, no decorations. Last year we left it all till the last minute, and then it was still all fun & new on Christmas. Hopefully it’ll work that way this year too! ha!

Flower Patch Farmgirl - Rental houses = Mojo suckers.
The BDR darn well killed mine.

Yours is just snoozing, that’s all. It’ll be back.

You NEED to do a rainbow striped tree next year like the picture!
And I’m loving the colorful Christmas tour and Ashley’s stuff.

jen - as always, beautiful.

i also have not been in the decorating spirit. looking at everyone else’s beautiful decorated houses makes me smile and wish i had a crafty bone in my body.

jen - I am so there with you!! tonight i was going to finish decorating and now it’s dinner time, then kids baths, then pick up husband….so…maybe tomorrow night. i just feel like there is so much crap everywhere all the time! anyways i am with you – let’s make a pact to knock it out of the park in 2014 – i’m in!!

Jennifer - No need to feel bad, Meg. I haven’t put up any Christmas decorations this year (besides a 3 foot tree the kids have taken to decorating). That’s what you get when you agree to move the week of Christmas!
And, don’t you just love Ashley’s (Handmade Home)designs?! She is as fabulous in person as she is on her blog. She’d make an awesome Craft Weekend special guest!

christina - Meg, I’m with ya! tree is up and decorated, but the boxes are still out!! and have been out for 3 days now. gotta get on that!

Beth - I’m so thankful for this post. I’ve been feeling so guilty that I’m not more into the whole decorating thing this year. We still don’t have a tree and I don’t think we will be sending out cards for the first time ever. It’s nice to know I’m not alone! Great inspirational pics though! 🙂

Iris - Oh how I love light and beautiful Christmas decorations, but sometimes we can’t do it all and we have to prioritize. For me, this year, that means taking time to really get into the true meaning of this season, crafting with my preschooler (STRESS), doing family activities, watching Christmas movies and just being. That’s it. The tree is up and so are the advent candles, but the rest is packed away. This is the year of a simpler Chistmas and I am loving the memories we are making. Sometimes memories trump the perfectly put together Christmas. Love your honesty.

Kimberly - THANK YOU for not being perfect and for sharing that with us! My house is very simply decorated for Christmas and definitely does not even compare to all the beautiful homes on Pinterest and the blogosphere. But, I have babies at home– they keep me up day & night. They are more important than decorating at this life stage. Think I’ll go take my nap now!

Tracey - oh, I know EXACTLY what you mean. I don’t feel like I have my mojo this year at all. Yesterday I finally took my Halloween wreath off the front door and put up a Christmas one. (Yes, I did say Halloween). I’ve been looking at all those lovely pics too and it makes me want all those beautifully decorated rooms. And I want a white tree too!!! Did you see this one on Pinterest? http://www.pinterest.com/pin/160088961727827180/ It is from Treetopia and I have been stalking it!
Oh! And it is 2:30 p.m. here and I am just now headed to the shower! 🙂

Alisa - Oh Meg, my decorations are not what they were a few years ago either. Most are still in the basement. Since I am in Germany, we don’t even have a tree yet – that comes late here – but they are always real & smell fantastic.. Two weeks ago my family was in a very lucky car accident, which could have easily killed my husband and my 2 kids 12 & 9. I am still shaking about it and so glad they are ok – car is gone, but who cares. Christmas means family. Some years we go all out, some not….

Julie - I love the look of a house beautifully decorated for Christmas, but reality strikes when you don’t have a gorgeous mantlepice to decorate, and the rooms in your house aren’t large and spacious. I also find that living in New Zealand and having a summer Christmas, the traditional decorations, wreaths etc don’t suit our lifestyle. Yes we have the tree – full of decoration with stories and meaning to us, I have made a scrappy fabric wreath and I try to gave fresh flowers. It is hard to decorate the outside with lights, when it is not dark until 9pm, by which time you are getting ready for bed so don’t really see them. It is still nice to drool over other people’s decorating and as you said experience it vicariously.

Sabrina - Ah yes! I remember your Christmas house from a few years ago! So inspiring! I’ve had good decorating years and not so good. Last year I spent most of December in the hospital on bed rest waiting for my baby to be born. He came 6 weeks early and we spent Christmas in the NICU… so no decorating that year. This year I have a one year old and a 2.5 year old, and I have energy to only do the basic decorating… maybe next year I’ll decorate more! ha ha we’ll see! 🙂 Merry Christmas!

Jessica R - I agree with you — it’s the natural light! Lots of natural light is a big deal to me too and those pictures look all the better because of their light!

I’m not going all out with Christmas decorating this year either. I think it’s because Christmas comes so soon after Thanksgiving this year; I kind of feel like it’s not worth the effort to put everything up only to take it down 4 weeks later…The tree is up and the mantle is decorated and that’s about it!

Nan - I’ve done nothing. Barely bought a gift. I’m also freaking out because it’s our 25th wedding anniversary on the 23rd and I don’t have any idea for a gift for my husband. New flat-screen tv?! Nothing says love like electronics, right?! Sometimes it’s a little too easy to whip out that plastic and try to make the holiday a happy one. I just don’t have the motivation this year. Bah humbug! Send Buddy the Elf my way, please 😉

Sarah D. - I’m living vicariously this year, too. Like you, our tree is up and decorated and that is as much as is done around here. And it will most likely remain that way for this year while the rest of my Cmas decorations stay in their tubs in my basement.

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these are good choices.

December 10, 2013

are you getting close to the end of your shopping list?
i am down to stocking stuffers.
and then the wrapping of the gifts.
as long as i can put on a christmas movie and wrap all by myself then i don’t mind that job at all.

i made a little list in my head of things i have loved to receive as gifts from people.

so this is not a wish list because i already have them.
but maybe there is something you need to get for someone yet and this list will give you an idea?

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mugs
any of the beautiful mugs from Anthropologie

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51DfxE+G0FL._SL1500_

Keurig Coffee Maker
nine year olds can make their mother’s coffee all over the world thanks to this baby.

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pretty & colorful washi tape (photo from pinksuedeshoe.com)

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mattress-tiff
Heated Mattress Pad
(best gift ever!!!!)

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PicMonkey Collage

new robe… new pajamas… new slippers

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martha stewart glitter.

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81kp2W02R0L._SL1500_ SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine

Craft Weekend has 4 of these machines. i really like them!

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247e9c378fe04425aa7c2e302d2bc8ae

gift cards to Starbucks!

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kdaisy2 kdaisy

anything from Katie Daisy on Etsy

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mixer mixer2

i received a KitchenAid Mixer 10 years ago as a christmas gift from mr. duerksen.
it is still one of the best gifts i have been given.
but mine is white.
🙂

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A+Guide+to+MAC+Lipstick+Finishes
lipstick

i always love new lipstick… and i think MAC lipstick smells good too.

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Kisses from Katie Humans of New York Tattoos on the Heart

these are three books that i love.
i sent my dad the Humans of NY and i read the whole thing at thanksgiving. 🙂
it’s such a cool concept to me!

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scarf

everyone would love a cute infinity scarf!
(these are from Gap, JCPenney & Ann Taylor)

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71JlXDY02dL._SL1500_

Rainbow Knife Set
i got these for christmas last year and i LOVE them!

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and OF COURSE… everyone would love a super fun picture from my shop in their home!
it would such a fun gift to give!
Use the code JINGLEBELLS10 for 10% off anything in my shop now through Dec. 31.

BUT IF YOU WANT A CANVAS FOR CHRISTMAS YOU NEED TO ORDER IT BY WEDNESDAY DEC. 11!

what did i miss on the list?
what would you have put on this list of your favorite things you have been given or love?

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Patti Mullican - You are not alone in the decorating department. The tree is up and the mantle is decorated, but that’s about it. All my energy has gone into school since I am a first year teacher. Your last minute gift ideas helped generate some ideas for me and your cow print is actually on personal Christmas wish list. Take good care and enjoy the season!

Flower Patch Farmgirl - Those knives!
*shiver*
Specifically, the small green one.
*shiver*

I like your list. Wanna wrap gifts together?

Alice H - I love the Vera Bradley Zip ID cases for $12. I add a gift card to it and present is done! I also like buying the Chick-Fil-A calendar and giving it with a gift card.

Adrienne - I just ordered two prints! One is the close of the gum balls that I love so much. I’ve looked at it so many times. The other is flowers in the wind and i plan to use it this spring 🙂 Excited!

Tracey Garcia - I got a cobalt blue kitchen aid years ago as a gift from my husband. And I love it! But, on black Friday when the Mr. and I were out shopping I saw the turquoise one!! But, given the cost of these babies, it really isn’t feasible to get one in each of the cool colors they now come in. 🙁
Probably one of my favorite gifts, and shows my total nerdiness, is a label maker that my oldest son bought me two years ago for Christmas. I had been wanting one forever and I LOVE it!!!

April R - …I haven’t really started yet. And this is really inspiring…sometimes I think I wander over here to get a spark and splash of color and inspiration no matter what time of year it is!
Happy Christmas all 🙂

Michelle Whitlow - I got a Kitchenaid mixer from my hubby for Christmas, too…about 13 yrs ago. Of course, back then they pretty much only had white. It’s hard to justify buying another one just because you want a new color!! They’re definitely a GREAT gift to get!

Btw, would love to know where you got those great red dishes/mugs that I’ve seen on your site before with the white polka dots! I’d like to add that to my Christmas list 🙂

Kathleen Mahoney - All great ideas! I received your “Back to Work” coffee mug print in the mail last week and can’t wait to find the perfect frame for hanging in my home office! Highly recommend this to anyone still out there shopping….. 🙂

Merry Christmas to you and yours.

Mindy - Great list! Those Anthro mugs are so cute. My KitchenAid (black) is one of my most used all time best gifts too. I missed the boat on “Humans” as I haven’t heard of it but will be checking it out. Anyone who gets one of your lovely prints for Christmas is lucky gal!

Laura Oyler - Pretty sure I love everything on this list…..except the coffee maker! I’m gonna have to look into the heated mattress pad thing. I have a heated blanket, but sometimes it just isn’t enough!

DebZorn - You have a very comprehensive list. I’m going to check out “Humans” because of all the positive comments. My favorite gift was, and always will be, the birth of my first child. She came into the world whole, healthy, with pink cheeks and a ton of hair, on Christmas Eve. I’ve had the joy of loving her and calling her my daughter for 39 years! Thanks for sharing – always.

Janelle - Thanks Meg! I immediately went to order Humans of New York for my father for Christmas. Just thought I’d let your readers know…they are sold out at Amazon. I was hopeful that they would get more in stock for Christmas but after checking out the Humans of New York blog he indicated that probably wouldn’t happen but to check out Barnes and Noble. They literally just got a new shipment in today so if your readers want it for Christmas they should check out Barnes and Noble. Thanks for the ideas…I ordered Tattoos on the Heart for my dad as well 😉

Tiffany - I want to gift Humans of New York to the world.

Jen - Love the rainbow knife set. That would look wonderful in our kitchen and we are in need of a new knife holder. Hmmmmm… The only other thing I would add to your list is this Heart Warmer Pillow from Bucky. http://www.bucky.com/heart-pillow.html I gave one to each of my girlfriends for Christmas and they have all said how much they enjoy them. Pop one in the microwave and instant warmth on a cold winter night. I love mine.

Meg - I LOVE Humans of New York! I started following the blog, and I’m getting the book for Christmas! Can’t wait to read it!

Bethany - Love this list! Last year I got a new sewing machine-it’s one of best gifts I’ve ever gotten. This year I’m excited to get some new boots. I already bought them on behalf of my husband, but have left them in the box until Christmas even though I’d love to start wearing them now.

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THE CRAFT HOUSE

December 9, 2013

so… let’s talk about the Craft House.

The Craft Weekend wait list is so very long.
i am not exaggerating.

if i ran Craft Weekend EVERY single weekend 52 times a year with ONLY people on the list… it would be over three years before i got to the end of the list.

but that is not going to happen.
unfortunately i cannot work every weekend of the next three years.
🙂

actually getting a spot for CW is super duper lucky.
and awesome!
But the reality is only a few of you get to come each year from the ginormous Craft Weekend list…

It’s not over but i don’t think i can handle another 10 this year.
i miss my kids!
and it is hard work.
it looks like super fun fun fun (and it is!) but there is LOADS of prep and energy and time put into each CW.
so it is not going away but there will not be as many this year as last year.

il_570xN.230786760 first
So what i think… is that your should get your girlfriends together, pick a date, and have your own weekend at the Craft House!
you get to pick your date and all the people that would be there!
all while getting to stay at the Craft House!

Here are some ideas for great ways to use the Craft House:

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Scrapbookers… this house is set up perfectly for you! there is work space for 16 along with even more tables to set up in other areas to get even more work area.
You can stay longer than 2 nights too if you really need time to get those albums finished. If you are not a scrapbooker pass this post onto someone who is!

Crafters… you could have everyone bring their own projects to work on where everyone does their own thing. it could be from someone sewing curtains to someone making a digital scrapbook! OR you could have some people in your group lead projects that were planned and bring the supplies in for everyone. It’s always nice to sit and do a project that someone else gathered everything for you ahead of time. But then be sure to make the people who don’t lead the crafts do all of your cooking! 😉 just kidding.

Quilters or Sewing Groups… there is space for you to spread out and work at the Craft House. One of the first things people say when they come inside for the first time is “It is so much bigger than the photos show” there is PLENTY of space for sewing here. We have a really great quilt shop, Charlotte’s Sew Natural, right in our town! And there are many more within short driving distances. It would be a great place to come and get those sewing projects started or FINISHED finally. Get your sewing group together for the weekend!

Girlfriends… you can have a full weekend of time away with your friends in a fully loaded house, comfy beds, beautiful kitchen to share your meals together.
you can go antiquing, to a movie, watch dvds or even arrange to have a massage therapist come in to give massage!
it is a fabulous house to just relax!

Bachelorette Weekend… this would be such a fun way to spend a weekend with your bridal party ladies.
you could work on projects for the wedding together… relax… plan… and get pampered before your wedding!

Spiritual Retreat…. the craft house is a lovely space for getting together for a weekend of spiritual focus. your church group or women’s group could have a weekend away for discussions, study and prayer together. it is perfect for a small retreat!

Friend Reunion Weekend… college roommates? high school friends? all in one place for a weekend to catch up and relive the glory days!

Birthday Weekend… invite all your favorite people together for your birthday have them come from all over the globe… friends from all stages of your life… together in one spot for the weekend. it’s awesome! trust me i know! 🙂 it makes for the best birthday memories! Plan a surprise birthday weekend for a friend or plan your OWN birthday weekend. you will have THE BEST birthday of your life!

Workshop… if you have a class or a course that you teach like photography or cooking or an artist workshop you could use the Craft House for a retreat.
everything is ready for you when you arrive… you can order your meals locally… you could arrange for outings or special guests. I would love to accommodate anything you would need to pull off an amazing workshop.

Bloggers Meet Up…. yes. all those friends you have online that you haven’t met in real life yet. but you are soul sisters very obviously. Pick a date and make it happen! Have a mini blogger conference at the Craft House. You will find the deepest of friendships in meeting your online friends face to face. it’s a weird and awesome thing to know so one so well and never having met. and it is so amazing afterward! it always blows my mind that God blessed me with so many friends through the internet. And i haven’t regretting meeting ANY of them in real life. DO IT. you will LOVE it. 🙂

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about a month ago i stopped by (after being invited) when a group who drove from arkansas were using the house for a crafting retreat.
it was lovely to meet all of them and chat for a bit. but what i loved was looking around at all of these women… each being creative in their own way… each so happy to be there.
they had each taken a break for themselves!
they were all smiling… the real smiles that come when you feel relaxed and content.

i was about to burst with joy seeing how the Craft House was blessing all those women!
it was a big deal to me!
i felt like the purpose was met!
that house is made for this.

it is a place to find your creative self again.
the house is place where you can just be YOU… not the mom, not the wife, maid, employee, not the nurse, not a chauffeur or taxi, not a chef or a referee

just you.

being there and remembering YOU and remembering what kind of creativity you have.
using your hands to MAKE stuff.
sharing coffee with girlfriends who get it.
and lots of T A L K I N G.

fourth

i would love to see the house used to the very fullest.
i want you and your friends to be able to BE at the Craft House!

i am happy to help answer questions about airports, car rentals, restaurants, shopping or anything to help your weekend go smoothly.

the CALENDAR is at the top of the blog in pull down menu under the Craft House button.
you can see the dates that are available for the year.

I would really love to get the January weekends reserved!
So… i am discounting them by $550!

If you book any of the available January weekends you can have the house for 16 guests for only $950.
that could be as little as $59 per person?!!

January 3 – 5 …..$950
January 10 – 12 ……$950
January 17 – 19 …..$950

ALSO… if you reserve your weekend for anytime (feb-dec) in 2014 THIS WEEK you will receive 20% off the price of your stay.
that would make a two night stay only $1200!
adding additional days would only be $200 each.

email me anytime this week (through dec. 16) with questions and to reserve your spot.

wouldn’t that be something great to look forward to after all the hustle and bustle of christmas season?

i can’t wait to hear from you!

happy monday everyone.

third

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Melissa - This would be such a fun way to gather all my girl relatives – do we get to use the sewing machines when we rent the craft house??

Michelle Whitlow - Carrie – How fun would that be??!! We should have a separate website for “Craft Weekend wannabe’s”!! haha Don’t pick us from the list…we’ll have our own!! haha Yeah, I’ve been on the list from nearly the beginning so I’m starting to think I’ll never get picked 🙁

Kathie M – I’m in WA, too 🙂

Jami NATO - Is feb 7&8 available?
Is there a tv there? We were thinking of trying to do the IFgathering there but we’d need to be able to watch it on something. I’m assuming there’s Internet there.
Could have emailed you that. But I’m on my phone and being lazy. 😉

Christa - Meg, Maybe you could start a seperate sign-up of women who want to come and do their own crafts but don’t know enough women (16!) in their own lives to make it cost effective for them. That way the house could fill up and be the cheapest per person and everyone can make new friends while relaxing, getting away and getting projects done!

Sara - I just want you to come to Georgia and decorate my house to look just like the craft house! I think that I would be happy every day to wake up surrounded by all those fun happy colors! And those quilts……

Dani - Hi, I love this idea! I live in Australia and love reading about the craft weekends, they are on my bucket list. What a fab idea to open it up like this if I lived closer I would book in a flash. I am sure many will enjoy your beautiful space and create and be and chill.
Merry Christmas to all xx

Shelly - What an Awesome idea!!! Back home, we’d do a craft weekend every year…but last year we moved from Northern Illinois to New Mexico so no more weekends for me 🙁 I linked this post on Facebook to spur on my friends and have some questions for you…Kansas just happens to be a pretty decent halfway point lol!!!

Karen Gerstenberger - What a wonderful idea, Meg. I admire you for knowing your own boundaries and keeping them for your self and your family. I know lots of women would love to have a place like your craft house to meet and share – much better than a hotel!

Kelli - I’d love to get together w/ a group of ladies …. who says it has to be people we know we can still make new friends and keep the old 🙂 …

So glad you are able to take more time for your family! And am very honored to still have the option of using the craft house 🙂

Melissa - Would we get to use the sewing machines and all that?? If so ill talk to my family a we are from Council Bluffs IA and various parts of KS and MO so this would be perfect!

lara sheriff - would leave out of DFW….wondering what airport we would fly into AND how far of a drive it is from north dallas. would LOVE to bring my bunco girls one weekend. it would be perfect. thanks meg! 🙂

meg duerksen - Debbie – YES they told me when i met them that they knew a Graber and it was so funny because i said “i met him once at the Etc Shop” anyway its such a small world! so glad jill loved it!

meg duerksen - Pamelotta… YES still having Craft Weekends but not as many as last year and the list keeps growing. 🙂

elz - Still going to wait for my turn! What a fun idea though, maybe next year.

Pamelotta - Sounds like a smart move. That house is so perfect for gathering, of any kind, it’s a blessing that you’re opening it up for anyone to enjoy it.

Will you still be having the occasional Craft Weekend? A lottery is still a lottery no matter what the odds and I’ve still got my fingers crossed that my name will get picked.

tara - this is exciting.
so happy for your family that God is providing in this way or y’all.
You’re one smart mama.

Lori - I love to see your craft weekend pictures and have gone back to your pictures of the craft house often. I don’t think that I will ever have the ability to go to the actual house but a dear friend and I have started planning our own mini craft weekend based on yours. We have been testing out some crafts that we might like to do. Our practice night was SO relaxing and inspiring that I can’t wait for us to plan our weekend! Thanks for the inspiration Meg and for helping us busy girls realize that we deserve to honor our creativity!!!

Debby Graber - Meg, Did you know those Arkansas people were from my son’s church?? Jill LOVED this past weekend, by the way. I was talking with some of those moms from our church who spent this past weekend doing their own craft weekend and they had so much fun. And so little sleep!! Did you know that A.B. stayed up until 3 a.m.??? I think those mommies will be catching up with sleep the rest of this week!

Carrie - Michelle Whitlow ~ I am the same as you!!! Maybe we should plan our own craft weekend?? I keep hoping God will choose my name for Craft weekend, but after 3 years on the waiting list, I’m wondering! I guess it just hasn’t been time yet! Here’s to hoping!!!

Merry Christmas!

Jen - What an awesome blessing that you are giving to women by letting them share this house! I’m reaching out to all my girlfriends asap to see if I can gather a group. I’m thinking my 35th birthday deserves a girls’ getaway weekend…..

Kathie M. - I am always inspired by you and your amazing house. I love keeping up with your blog and love seeing the photos after and during each Craft Weekend. I really want to start a craft weekend up here in Washington. I love crafting and teaching and sharing my gifts with others. I would love to come out your way but it just isn’t in my cards. I will however continue to support you and your amazing gift! Thank you for sharing and inspiring creativity in everyone.

Michelle Whitlow - I so wish I could do that…but I think I’m like most people in that I don’t know that many women who would be willing to spend the money to fly out to another state for a weekend retreat. It’s great for people who are within a day’s drive. That’s probably one of the main reasons I signed up to be on the wait list sooooo long ago. Because I would most likely be coming by myself. If I knew that many people who’d be willing to do the trip I’d rent the house in a heartbeat! Sadly, I’m just too far away to get people to commit to that 🙁

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