Life of Meg

Eleven Things

2012-02-15T15:07:00.005-06:00

Whoops! Will you forgive me for being so MIA lately?
I took Valentine's Day off yesterday, and Monday was one big work blurrrr! But thanks to the lovely Leslie @ A Blonde Ambition, I am back and inspired with a post topic... a little fun fact game!

Game Rules:

~you must post the rules
~post 11 fun facts about yourself
~answer the 11 questions that the tagger posted for you & then create 11 questions to ask the people you've tagged
~tag 11 people and link them in your post
~let them know you have tagged them

{ A Little Meg }

1. Rainy days, like today are my favorite. I love few things more than waking up to a dark cloudy day, cup of coffee in hand, and listening to the rain fall while Norah Jones sings me sweet songs in the background. Mmmm...

2. I moved to San Francisco for a summer when I was selected for an internship with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Not only did I become even more passionate about cancer initiatives, I fell in love with that city.

I daydream often about running the Embarcadero stretch on a sunny day, taking the BART (subway) to anywhere in the city, and the charm of those sweet pastel colored victorians. I need to go back ASAP!

3. The musical stylings of Frank Sinatra make me melt. Perhaps I was born in the wrong era? I just love big band music, heartfelt love songs, and that man's smooth voice.

4. I must have a strong affinity for gingers... because I just can't get enough of my red-headed, freckly, bearded man! He's sweeter than sugar, has sacrificed his car for me to drive while mine is dead (we're going on 4 weeks now - must find new car!!), and would gladly do it all over again. He's a keeper.

5. I am terribly indecisive. Dinner plans. Movie times. Which brand of toilet paper to buy. You name it, I have no clue...

6. I was diagnosed with a chronic auto-immune disease, fibromyalgia, last year. It's a difficult disease to manage and no day is like the one before. Every day my pain levels are different, chronic fatigue comes along with it, and some days it's just hard to get out of bed.

Slowly losing the 20 lbs I gained while on trial steroids, which was incredibly disheartening, but I'm on my way!

7. I have a 3-year-old daughter, Bella Louise Beast Porter, who is one furry, playful cockapoo. She has an embarrassing amount of nicknames, but I sure love that little baby.

8. I'm a lover of breakfast foods for any meal. I don't really care if it's 7 p.m... waffles always sound good to me! ;)

9. Oklahoma State is where I proudly earned my public relations degree. I will forever be grateful that my degree and education has helped me land my dream job, so I will forever be a Cowboy fan! GO POKES!

10. When I was 3, I got into a little mischief, and ended up with 3rd degree burns on my legs. Apparently I stripped down to my birthday suit, climbed in the sink, and turned on scalding hot water (before our water heater was adjusted), and I was rushed to the ER.

All I remember from that day was wearing Oshkosh B'Gosh pink overalls and I got a My Little Pony from my Aunt Sheryl. Now I have what looks like is a huge birth mark all over my right leg, but people don't now my little secret! :)

11. Name a holiday, because chances are I love it! I'm such a holiday girl, and Adam thinks it's so quirky! Christmas is by far my fave, but I gladly take part in any celebrations, from St. Patty's Day (green beer!) to Groundhog Day! :)

{ Here are the questions Leslie asked... }

1. If you could raid any celebrity's closet, who would it be and why?Reese Witherspoon. She always looks so relaxed and comfortable, while still looking cute and girly. Not to mention she is always wearing adorable dresses!

2. If you were a shoe, what would you look like?I would probably be a cute light yellow polka dotted flat. Girly, yet free enough to prance around!

3. What is your biggest pet peeve?When people don't follow through with their commitments or change plans.

4. Favorite song of all-time?"Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield. I just love the message!

5. Are you a dog person or a cat person? And why? (If you don't like animals, we can't be friends.)I am a puppy person, because they love to snuggle and play.

6. You're queen for a day. How do you spend your royal 24 hours?Sleep in, breakfast in bed, grocery shop with nobody around, go to an early movie, raid hobby lobby for a crafty project, get my nails painted, go on a shopping spree, and then cook dinner in with my love.

7. What's the most delicious thing you've ever eaten?I can't think of a delicious thing that I haven't eaten... :)

8. What scares you the most? (This can be deep and complex or shallow...whatever you feel like!)I absolutely hate creepy news stories or scary movies. I can't handle it!

9. Which celebrity do you wish would drift off into obscurity?Chris Brown.

10. You're 16 years old again. What advice would you give your younger self? Your dream guy and big girl life are out there, so stop worrying/wondering. God will take care of you day-by-day, you just live life to the fullest and live in the present.

11. What's your Starbucks order?Lately, it's been a tall skinny mocha (thanks for FINALLY adding skinny mochas to your menu! YAY!).

Here are the girls I'm tagging in this game:

I'll follow Leslie's lead and say all of you! I would LOVE
to learn more about each and every one of you!!

Here are the questions I'm asking:

1) Hotdog or hamburger?

2) Best movie you've seen recently?

3) What did you want to be when you were growing up?

4) Dream vacation - who/what/where?

5) What is your favorite sport to watch?

6) Tell me your fast food of choice...

7) What is the best date you've ever been on?

8) If you had a $1,000 shopping spree, what stores would likely get your money?

9) Favorite color and why?

10) Name your dessert of choice?

11) How would you like to spend a rainy Saturday?

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

Why don't you play along with me?! After you post, please come back and leave your post URL in the comments! I'd love to stop by and learn more! :)

Kissy kissy!

Have a Glowing Weekend!

2012-02-10T12:45:00.004-06:00

My baby sister is now a senior, going to her last Homecoming dance, and I can hardly believe it! It seems liek just yesterday it was my senior year... not sure where time has gone!

Check out the super fun glow-in-the-dark dance that her and her class did. Linds and her besties got together to choreohgraph the dance and then teach the rest of her class! She called and said the costumes were ten times more glowy in person and everyone went wild! ...she's so awesome.

{Hint: Fast fwd to minute 1:11... }

Sissy - Wishing you such a wonderful homecoming - you're going to look beautiful as always!

Wishing the rest of you a glowing weekend full of fun, surprises, and relaxation! Hugs from KC!

Valetine DIY - Guest Posting!

2012-02-08T11:06:00.002-06:00

Guest posting today over at Simple Little Joys! If you don't follow this blog, it's a daily must read for me, so don't miss out! A big thanks to Rach for inviting me!

I'm sharing some Valentine DIY ideas, including my homemade gift projects for Adam, love-inspired recipes, and decor ideas for your Valentine's Day bash!

Yup, those cookies are featured on there... now you're curious, aren't you? ;)

Guinness Chocolate Ganache-Filled Cupcakes

2012-02-07T15:51:00.010-06:00

This recipe is for all of my Twitter friends out there who were oooh'ing and aaahh'ing over this weekend's Super Bowl baking photos! Well, like I promised, here is the recipe that you all need to try ASAP. I could tell by my empty cupcake tray after the Super Bowl that everyone just hated them! ;)

Well it all started when Adam's sister, Meredith, gave me the perfect Christmas present... large bakery-style frosting tips! She knows me too well! So needless to say I've been dying to use them since I unwrapped these little gems! Thanks, Mere! xo

I was pretty nervous when I started this recipe for several reasons...

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1) New recipes.
Both the cupcake and buttercream recipes I had never tried before.

2) I've never made ganache.
Doesn't it just sound fancy? Ganache. Woah.
I did not go to culinary school, so something that sounds this fancy just seems hard.

3) I'm not a cupcake baker.
I typically stick to cookies (my specialty), so I think the idea of filled cupcakes was twice as terrifying

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...but I've learned that cupcakes recipes are easy, ganache sounds fancy but is totally doable, and apparently I am a cupcake baker! Now I want to experiment even more with these things!!

{ Guiness Double Chocolate Ganache-Filled Cupcakes }
Adapted from Brown Eyed Baker's Irish Car Bomb Cupcakes

{ Footballs = piped melted chocolate! }

Ingredients:

- 1 cup Guinness stout
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoons salt
- 2 eggs
- 2/3 cup sour cream

Ganache Filling:

- 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter, at room temperature

Buttercream:
- Magnolia Bakery Vanilla Buttercream Recipe

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Cupcakes:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. and line 24 cupcake cups with liners.

2. Bring the Guinness and butter to a simmer in a heavy, medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the cocoa powder and whisk until the mixture is smooth. Cool slightly.

2. Whisk the flour, sugar, baking soda and salt in a large bowl to combine. Using an electric mixer, beat the eggs and sour cream on medium speed until combined.

3. Add the Guinness-chocolate mixture to the egg mixture and beat just to combine.

4. Reduce the speed to low, add the flour mixture and beat briefly. Using a rubber spatula, fold the batter until completely combined.

5. Pour 2/3 full into cupcake liners and bake about 17 minutes. Toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Cool the cupcakes on a rack.

Ganache:

1. Finely chop the chocolate and transfer it to a heatproof bowl.

2. Heat the cream until simmering on stove and pour it over the chocolate.

3. Let it sit for one minute and then, using a rubber spatula, stir it from the center outward until smooth.

4. Add the butter and stir until combined. Let the ganache cool until thick but still soft enough to be piped.

How to Fill:

1) Using the bottom of a large decorating tip, cut the centers out of the cooled cupcakes, going about two-thirds of the way down.

2) Transfer the ganache to a piping back with a wide tip and fill the holes in each cupcake to the top.

{ Filling photo via Brown Eyed Baker }

Frost Cupcakes:

Whip up a batch of the Magnolia Bakery Vanilla Buttercream (in the Meg Cooks section) that I used, or top with any favorite frosting recipe! Instant hit!

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...and voila! Such a tasty, decadent recipe! The cake part is super moist and delicious, the ganache is smooth, and the buttercream adds the perfect flavor combo to this delight!

this recipe would be great for Valentine's Day, and super rich if topped with a chocolate buttercream! Think about it...

Bon Appetit!

Magnolia Bakery Vanilla Buttercream

2012-02-07T14:58:00.006-06:00

Always on the hunt for the best buttercream, I think I might have found a top contender with Magnolia Bakery's vanilla buttercream. The texture is light and fluffy, smooth on your tongue, with a delicious vanilla velvety taste... what a dream! Definitely a must try for cakes, cupcakes, sandwich cookies and anything your little heart desires.

Now, I'm a frosting lover, so it would be hard to find a frosting I don't like. Adam, on the other hand, is not... but he LOVED this recipe - I was completely shocked! So there you have it, folks. If I can convince the frosting despiser... you can convince anyone it's the world's best buttercream!

{ Magnolia Bakery's Vanilla Buttercream }
via: Martha Stewart

Ingredients:

- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

- 6 to 8 cups confectioners' sugar

- 1/2 cup milk

- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions:

1. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine butter, 4 cups sugar, milk, and vanilla.

2. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy, 3 to 5 minutes.

3. Gradually add remaining sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating for about 2 minutes after each addition, until icing reaches desired consistency.

** You may not need to add all the sugar. I use approx. 6 - 6.5 cups. **

4. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Bon Appetit!

Mingle Weekly Blog Hop!

2012-02-07T09:03:00.007-06:00

For all of you who were legitimately concerned about me yesterday... don't you worry, I'm okay! Your e-mails/tweets/comments were so sweet! I was quite simply swamped yesterday building the Active for Life healthy living campaign for my office (daily question to follow...), so I apologize for missing Mingle Monday!!

...so why don't I make it up to you this morning?! And then to top it off with extra sweetness, I will be post the recipe to the Guinness double chocolate ganache-filled cupcakes with Magnolia Bakery's vanilla buttercream. To. Die. For.

So, do you forgive me?

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{ Time to Mingle! }
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Pretty Pretty Please...

If you could find it in your big heart to pass the Mingle word along... I will love you forever and ever and ever... and ever.

In all seriousness, I truly appreciate each one of you who take an extra minute to go the extra mile for me. I cannot thank you and your sweet generosity enough!

{ Many thanks! }

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How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

In regards to my Active for Life program... we want to provide worthwhile prize incentives for outstanding participants! I'm thinking pedometer, sports watch, workout DVD, etc.... but we have a no giftcards policy! HELP!

** What healthy living prizes would you want to win? **

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** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

** Open until Friday at noon! Please spread the word! **
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Valentine's Day ideas tomorrow and more inspiration heading your way this week... stay tuned!!

Hope your week is off to a stellar start!!

PS - Are you on Twitter? Follow me on the go!! :)

Super Bowl Party Ideas

2012-02-02T09:13:00.013-06:00

Happy Groundhog Day, Friends!
Unfortunately Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, so it's 6 more weeks of winter for us. Although, I have to say that maybe Phil got it wrong this year, because it has been unseasonably warm here in Kansas City {love it}. I can't believe there has been no big snow yet... and it's February!

I digress.

Onward to more fun February festivities (say that 3x fast!) ...Super Bowl! Whether you are hosting your own shin dig or plan on attending another party, I figured I would share some fun ideas that I have a'brewing for our party!

As per the usual, Adam is super duper sweet and has opened his home to host our friends for great food and amazing commercials... I mean football? Somewhere Adam is reading this and shaking his head. Anyway, we are planning on making a few different kinds of chili (that man can make chili like nobody's business!) and enjoying tasty appetizers and treats. I think I have it narrowed down to the top fun things I'd like to try.

{ Thanks Pinterest for you ever wonderful inspiration... }

Check out these adorable free printables!

Those flags would looks so cute on these pizza puffs - yum!

Summer sausage, cheddar & ranch football bites

Baked Mozzarella Sticks

Touchdown 7-Layer Dip

Such a cute idea!
I'm planning to use this Guinness chocolate cupcake recipe that I've been saving, filling the middle with chocolate ganache and going for a basic vanilla buttercream for the green grass!

...and now that I'm finished I am just realizing almost every recipe saved contains copius amounts of cheese. You could say I'm obsessed, but that might be an understatement. I should probably hit the gym before my cheese fest, eh?

.:::.:::.:::.:::.:::.

What are your plans for the Super Bowl?
Have any fun recipes or ideas saved?

Do share!!

Mingle Monday Blog Hop!

2012-01-30T11:30:00.003-06:00

Oh my goodness...
I am still recovering from a great weekend! Adam's sweet little sister, Meredith was in town, and I just love her to pieces! We had a great time enjoying restaurant week on Friday night over dinner and drinks, went wedding dress shopping for her on Saturday (she looked AMAZING in literally everything), and savored an awesome gourmet 3-course dinner last night! I'll be counting the days until we see her next!

I hope you all had an amazing weekend full of fun and the people you love. Did anyone do anything newsworthy? Do tell!

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{ Let's Mingle! }
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Pretty Pretty Please...

If you could find it in your big heart to pass the Mingle word along... I will love you forever and ever and ever... and ever.

In all seriousness, I truly appreciate each one of you who take an extra minute to go the extra mile for me. I cannot thank you and your sweet generosity enough!

{ Many thanks! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

** What are your Super Bowl plans? **

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** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

** Open until Friday at noon! Please spread the word! **
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You're in for an exciting week of blogging my friends! Coming up this week: Super Bowl party ideas, Valentine's day date ideas, and more! Don't miss out!

Have a great Monday, dolls!

PS - Are you on Twitter? Follow me on the go!! :)

Pinterest Projects + Photo Proof

2012-01-24T11:08:00.014-06:00

I have been excited to share fun photos and projects with all of you since I finished them last night! As we all know, Pinterest is a big jungle where we can easily get lost in the vibrant colors or general ideas of the pinned photos, and being the blonde that I am, it's easy to get lost when I see shiny pretty things! ;)

So I needed to figure out a system that could help me better organize my Pinterest boards and actually USE what I'm pinning. As I said on Twitter last night, I don't want to just pin to pin, I want to pin to improve/challenge myself.

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My system is fairly simple.

1) I make sure that I only pin things that I actually think I will use.

2) Clearly name/organize boards so that things are easy to find.

3) Create a board where you can move pinned items to, where your goal is to accomplish those things in a set time frame.

The name of my board? "This Week's Projects" ...clever.

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{ This Week's Projects }

+ Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

These were delicious and such a hit! My inspired recipe on my blog post here.

+ Kitchen Organization

I saw the title "Become More Organized in 2012" and was hooked. This website, Delightful Order, is unreal and so inspirational when it comes to organization.

I tackled the kitchen pantry portion in order to tame my baking supplies. Stopped by Target for some cheap ($2.99 - $3.99) storage containers, shelf organizers ($7.99), and love how good the before and after pictures make me feel! Less stress in the kitchen (my happy place) is so great! Case in point...

{Before}

{After}

+ Weight Loss Visual Motivation

Saw this idea, and knew it was for me. I know it's such a simple, straight forward idea, but I'm a visual learner. Al you need is 2 jars, marbles (each representing 1 pound), and stickers to label the jars however you'd like. Each time you lose a pound you move a marble over into the "Lbs Lost" jar. Love it.

Whenever I see these jars I am reminded of my gol. After losing 5 lbs. i often want to celebrate, but I can't slack because I can see that I still have 20 marbles to go. I loved how these jars turned out, and they have now moved from my living room to my kitchen counter. May the remind me of the healthier lifestyle I am working toward - Woo! :)

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So there you have it! I'm hoping to move more projects over to my "This Week's Projects" board soon... being productive feels good!

What projects are you working on?

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

2012-01-24T09:02:00.005-06:00

Who out there is a sugar cookie addict like moi?
Well, you guys are in for a treat!! Like you, I absolutely buckle at the knees for a super soft, chewy-in-the-center sugar cookie topped with fluffy frosting. SO... when I found this recipe on Pinterest, I figured it would be fun to tinker with a little bit!

I read over the recipe getting the just of what it was all about. Due to my limited pan availability (who owns a 13x18 pan?), I decided to adapt this recipe to fit my space and high maintenance sugar-cookie-snob needs. I wanted to get it just right!

Naturally, I had to find an occasion to test these delectable treats out, so I was overjoyed when I knew I had our weekly friend gathering of what we call Monday Night Family Dinner.

To say they were a hit is a bit of an understatement judging by the overwhelming oohh's and aahh's as my closest friends dug into these scrumptious gems! I brought the leftovers to work today (to avoid eating 1/4 of the 13x9 inch pan myself), and I've already had 2 people come find me in the office to get the recipe... it's 9 a.m. This recipe is a keeper.

So good luck with trying these out... you may have to enter sugar cookie rehab afterward, so just know you've been warned. ;)

{ Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars }

{pic}

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
2 cups sugar
4 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
5 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 - 3 tablespoons of milk (2 Tbl. if you want thick fluffy frosting)
food coloring (optional)
sprinkles (a must!)

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Directions:

1) Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2) Cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy.

3) Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low, just until blended, after each addition.

4) Add vanilla until combined.

5) In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients.

6) Slowly add dry ingredients while mixer is on low speed.

7) Press the dough into a greased 9x13 inch pan and bake for 15 - 17 minutes.

** Bars should barely be browning on outer edges, but the middle should not look shiny. If shiny, bars are not done yet. **

8) Remove from oven and let cool. Once cool, begin frosting/decorating!

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Frosting Directions:

1. Beat the butter until very fluffy and creamy.

2. Add the vanilla to the butter until combined.

3) Begin to add the powdered sugar to the mixture slowly.

4) Gradually add the 2-3 tablespoons of milk until you reach your desired frosting constancy. I prefer frostings thick and fluffy, not runny, so I used roughly 2 Tbl. milk.

5) Beat frosting on medium high for 2 minutes or so, until frosting is fluffy and looks utterly irresistable.

6) Spread frosting on cooled bars and decorate with sprinkles

7) Chill in fridge for 30 minutes or so to make them easier to cut. A pizza wheel works wonders at cutting these!

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Like I said, don't tell me I didn't warn you! ;)

Bon Appetit!

Mingle Monday Blog Hop!

2012-01-23T13:26:00.003-06:00

What a great weekend!!
With family in town, boyfriend back from work trips and the work week finished, I was ready to cut loose and unwind a little bit!

I had a blast celebrating Mom/Kelly's birthdays on Friday night, and was thankful that Kelly's girlfriend, Adam, and his parents could all join us! Saturday was full of morning coffee date, followed by working an event for work. Don't you worry, I love my co-workers and what I do so much that I didn't mind!

Saturday late afternoon was spent with my handsome Adam by my side running errands, enjoying a dinner date, followed by watching Moneyball on my super comfy couch.

Sunday, I met Adam at church (he goes early for his men's Bible study), then we enjoyed cooking out with friends, watchign football, and enjoying each other's company! I even made some major progress on my Cozy Couture Headwraps etsy orders! :)

So anyway, hope you all had a great weekend too!!

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{ Let's Mingle! }
.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

If you could find it in your big heart to pass the Mingle word along... I will love you forever and ever and ever... and ever.

In all seriousness, I truly appreciate each one of you who take an extra minute to go the extra mile for me. I cannot thank you and your sweet generosity enough!

{ Many thanks! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

** Where do you find inexpensive home decor? **

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** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

** Open until Friday at noon! Please spread the word! **
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Weekend/life update + photos coming tomorrow... stay tuned!!

Wishing you a week full of joy!

PS - Are you on Twitter? Follow me on the go!! :)

Giveaway Winner + 2 Birthday Celebrations!

2012-01-20T09:27:00.005-06:00

Happy Friday, Lovelies!
I am sure am thankful that the weekend is finally here... I was about to go crazy! My parents will be in town tonight and tomorrow, so I'm looking forward to a weekend full of fun!

My mom and brother have the same birthday, so we're looking forward to celebrating tonight with a big dinner party. It will be fun to dine with mom/dad, brother/his GF, Adam's parents, and my lovely ginger man.

Did I mention we're going to my favorite restaurant in KC? Yummm....

In other news, I received an overwhelming surplas of e-mails wanting a full review on my healthy Chicken Lettuce Wrap recipe that I mentioned yesterday, and I tried/tweaked last night. So here's my review...

So good I could eat them every single day.

{ Yes, recipe coming your way this weekend. Omg. }

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{ Bondi Band Giveaway Winner... }

MANDY @ Moments Like These!!

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Congrats, Mandy!! Please e-mail me your mailing address so I can mail your new favorite headband! :)

megnificentlife [at] gmail [dot] com
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Thanks to the almost 50 of you who participated in the Bondi Band giveaway this week! Unfortunately, everyone can't win one of these adorable workout headbands, but be sure to browse Bondi Band to order your own! :)

What do you have on your weekend fun agenda?

Hodge Podge of Sorts...

2012-01-19T10:29:00.010-06:00

I couldn't be more thankful that it's Thursday...
This week, although short, has been extremely busy/stressful/overwhelming. I bet a good handful of you are feeling the same way too. Let's just bust through today, get to Friday, and enjoy the weekend!

So I figured I would share quite the miscellaneous hodge podge for today. Lot's of fun things going on and random nuggets for you to enjoy!

One more thing! If you haven't entered my Bondi Band Giveaway - this is your last day! Don't miss out - especially you healthy workout girls!! - winner will be announced tomorrow!

{ Meg's Miscellaneous... }

1) Car Shopping

Many of you so kindly follow me on Twitter, so you must have seen my car shopping tweets over this last week. Well, my poor little Escape is pretty close to biting the dust, so I've been in a whirlwind of test drives and scouring the internet. My current focus/dream car? Jeep Grand Cherokee!

I'm very thankful that my Escape has lasted me this long and been paid off for a few years! She's held up through the many drives back and forth in college, in between OKC and KC when Adam and I were dating long distance, and now for my fabulous job that takes me all over the place weekly.

I've never had a leather interior, heated seats, a sunroof, or anything utterly fancy, so the idea of possibly finding something fun has me excited... and a little nervous! :)

2) Cozy Wishes

So very thankful to have put my humble little crocheting hobby to good use by opening my Cozy Couture Headwraps Etsy shop. Not only has it been fun to have people to create custom gifts for, but it will be nice to have a teeny weeny bit of extra income to assist with my upcoming car payments! Oy!

I'm hoping if any of you have been thinking of placing a Cozy Couture order, that you will hop over and visit my shop! With this freezing cold weather you may need some super cute, girly, winter accesories, right?

3) I'm Addicted to TV

Seriously. It's borderline embarrassing. This being said, I don't ever watch shows when they're actually on, so I'm technically a DVR-aholic.

+ Glee
+ Modern Family
+ New Girl
+ Kim and Kourtney Take NY
+ Real Housewives
+ Cupcake Wars
+ Four Weddings
+ Scouted
+ etc.

This is getting ridiculous.

The other night I just wanted to watch the news, but I couldn't unless I cancelled one of the two recorded shows already taking over. I need to find a TV rehab STAT.

4) My Best Friend = Engaged

Yes, my sweet bestie, Lo, got engaged last week. In germany. In a castle. Say whhhaaaattt?? Out of anyone in the world, that girl deserves all the happiness life can offer.

Lo is kind, ridiculously smart, overwhelmingly thoughtful, hilarious, stunningly beautiful, unique, and 100% genuine. Such a rare gem of a friend! Love her so very much and can't wait for wedding pallooza!

5) Thanks for the Fancy Dinner, Groupon!

I haven't made a Groupon purchase in a month or so, but today's was a great deal for a really upscale restaurant here in KC. The food looks to die for, it would be perfect for a fancy date, Valentine's Day, or a nice occasion... consider it purchased! ;)

Are you on Groupon? Bought any good deals recently?

6) My Boyfriend's Back & You're Gonna Be in Trouble...

Haha, I had fun with that title, can you tell? Still giggling over here... wow, I don't think I get out much apparently. Anyway, yes my sweet man is back from a business trip, so I'm excited to make these Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps that I had saved on my Pinterest. They look so yummy and are super healthy!

.:::.:::.:::.:::.:::.

What's in your noggin' today? Any crazy thoughts?

{Giveaway} Bondi Band!

2012-01-18T10:24:00.013-06:00

Calling all workout ladies!
Boy have I got a treat for you today! The wonderful people at Bondi Band sent me two workout headbands - one for me to test out, and one for a lucky reader! These bands come in SO many adorable patterns, are elastic, and can be work wide across your forehead or skinny to keep hair back.

Not only are Bondi Band products awesome (I loved mine - see below!), but 10% of their sales profits is donated to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Great product and amazing cause? Yes, please!

These headbands are cute hair accessories when you hit the gym, but they really do work miracles in wicking away sweat and keeping your hair out of your face! Mine stayed in place through an hour long yoga sesh (no sweat in my eyes!) and the next day on my run! I'm a Bondi believer.
They even make customizable Bondi Bands and have some with cute sayings. My favorite? "I run for chocolate!" :)

The giveaway winner will receive the adorable polka dot "Ernie" style Bondi Band headband, so don't miss out!!

_______________________________________________

{ How To Enter }
_______________________________________________

For one entry each, please leave separate comments if you do the following:

+ Tweet about this giveaway
(include the link to your tweet in the comments)

+ Follow Life of Meg on Twitter

+ Follow Bondi Band on Twitter

+ Like Bondi Band on Facebook

+ Include a blurb about this giveaway (including giveaway URL link) in a post
(please leave the URL to your blog post)

** Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to win! **
_______________________________________________

Who's excited? Just talking me about Bondi Band makes me want to go shop for more cute patterned headbands! Not to mention they lots of great deals for buying mutliple headbands. Shop here!

Winner will be announced this Friday!

Good Luck Dolls!

________________________________________

PS - In case you missed the Mingle Monday/Tuesday blog hop yesterday, go check it out (open until Friday)! Get your blog some exposure and find some other great blogs!
________________________________________

Mingle {Tuesday?} Blog Hop

2012-01-17T10:24:00.004-06:00

Welcome back to Mingle... err... Tuesday?!
I apologize for the abscence of Mingle Monday yesterday and appreciate all the many e-mail and comments I got wondering if I was okay. I'm glad to know so many of you are enjoying this blog hop, and that it's helping your individual blogs! Makes my heart so happy! :)

The reason I was MIA yesterday? I had MLK off for a holiday, so I had zero computer access! Don't worry, we'll make up for it today!

After my car basically went ka-pooie this weekend, I spent all weekend SUV shopping. Let me just tell you, I've enjoyed having no car payment for ther last few years, so this whole surprise situation and process has been a wee bit stressful! Don't worry, my new speed demon is out there somewhere... I just know it! ;)

_____________________________________

{ Enough with me... Let's Mingle! }
.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

If you could find it in your big heart to pass the Mingle word along... I will love you forever and ever and ever... and ever.

In all seriousness, I truly appreciate each one of you who take an extra minute to go the extra mile for me. I cannot thank you and your sweet generosity enough!

{ Many thanks! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

** What is YOUR dream car? **

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

** Open until Friday at noon! Please spread the word! **
_________________________________________________

ALSO... stay tuned for tomorrow's big giveaway! Those of you who love working out/yoga/running/you-name-it, this one's for you!!!

Happy Tuesday! Enjoy hoppin' around!

PS - Are you on Twitter? Follow me on the go!! :)

Banana Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins

2012-01-13T09:14:00.005-06:00

Congratulations... we've made it to Friday!!
Let me just tell you, not only am I looking forward to a wonderful weekend, butI'm loving that I have Monday off to relax/bake/watch movies/workout/craft. It sounds oh-so-good! ...not to mention my Saturday spa day plans - woop woop!

Well in case you are needing an extra tasty recipe to try over the weekend... this is a delicious one just for you!

I made these tasty little morsels last weekend when I noticed on overflow of over-ripe bananas. I am such a picky banana eater (bright yellow, and more on the green side for me!), so as soon as there are hints of brown spots, they get thrown into my freezer stash for later banana baking projects!

As always, BF was so excited that I made these when he came over before church last Sunday. I am pretty positive he popped 3-4 of these suckers before we could get a move on!

{ Banana Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins }

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups flour
3/4 cup sugar
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 Tbl. cinnamon
1 egg
1/2 cup vegetable oil (sub no sugar applesauce for lower cal/fat)
1/2 cup plain yogurt (I used greek yogurt)
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 cup ripe bananas (mashed)
1 1/4 cup semisweet mini chocolate chips

Directions

1) In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside

2) In stand mixing bowl, combine the egg, oil, yogurt and vanilla.

3) Stir in the dry ingredients just until moistened. Do not over mix! This produces tough bread-like muffins.

4) Fold in bananas and chocolate chips by hand.

5) Grease muffin tin or use mini muffin liners. Fill muffin cups to 2/3 full.

6) Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Allow muffins to cool for 2-3 minutes before removing to a rack to cool completely.

Yields: Approx. 36 mini muffins

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

Happy baking, friends! I am pretty excited to keep using my banana stash and try this yummy Lime Glazed Banana Coconut Bread (Adam will love me to the moon and back!) that I found saved on my Pinterest boards!

Man, I love baking, which means I get to hit the gym after work! ;)

May your weekend bring you much relaxation, fun, and joy! Catch you back here for the Mingle Monday Blog Hop!

Bon Appetit!

S-T-R-E-S-S-E-D

2012-01-12T09:40:00.004-06:00

I have been a little MIA this week while on a(n)[overwhelming] business trip... but I'm back... and a little stressed. Just being out of the office for a few days means an overload of demanding e-mails and voicemails. Needless to say, i need to clear my head over my lunch break... hello blog!

I couldn't have picked a better time to have booked my spa day this Saturday! Thanks to the generosity of BF's parents, I will be spending the day getting pampered - massage, facial, steam showers - so ready!! Not to mention the upcoming 3-day weekend! Yes, please.

{ Take me here now! }

.:: Time to Simmer Down ::.

1) FB Purge

Thanks to my blog friend's post, I have the confidence to go through and weed out some of those crazy FB "friends" - aka: crazies, drama lovers, constantly picture posting moms, college classmates that friended me after we did one project together, etc. Oh man, it feels good. Gotta surround yourself with positive loving people, right?

2) Down Time

It's pretty snowy and super cold here in KC, so all I want to do is snuggle up + watch movies. Looking forward to a super mellow date night with my favorite man friend at my house tonight. Crockpot full of turkey chili and a redbox movie is sounding pretty delightful at the current moment... come on 5 p.m.

3) Organization

Do you ever have those days where you can't focus until you have everything cleaned and in it's spot. Pretty sure my office will be a huge afternoon project!

4) A Little Me Time

Hello, Zumba! My gym bag is already packed and I'm hitting up my favorite class after work! Nothing like some awesome jams and some good booty shaking to relieve my work day stress.

5) Remember to Giggle

This blog post CRACKED me up. Things Ariel Taught Me...

Feeling stressed out today too? What's on your mind, friends?

Mingle Monday Blog Hop ...is BACK!

2012-01-09T11:26:00.004-06:00

Welcome back to Mingle Mondays!
Who missed this little blog hop over the last few weeks?! I know I missed it! Well, it's back to stay and will be back to regular weekly hopping!

So, did everyone have a good weekend? I sure did, but don't they just seem to fly right by? Adam was in our good friends' wedding this weekend, so we were busy!

We had the rehearsal dinner on Friday, the Cotton Bowl watch party late Friday night (unfortunately K-state couldn't pull it out, but congrats Arkansas on a great win!), and an all day wedding pallooza on Saturday.

So Sunday felt nice to relax! I slept in, deep cleaned my house from top-to-bottom, put away Christmas, and baked up a storm (Banana Choc Chip Mini Muffins recipe coming this week!

Adam and I went to the evening service at our church last night and I'm loving the "Love, Sex, Marriage" series that we're doing! After that, we went back to my place where I could make BF his favorites... Chicken Pesto Pasta (recipe coming soon!) and Megnificent Oatmeal Raisin Cookies.

...and yes, major GF points were earned! The way to his heart is right through his tummy!

_____________________________________

{ Alrighty... Let's Mingle! }
.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

If you could find it in your big heart to pass the Mingle word along... I will love you forever and ever and ever.

In all seriousness, I truly appreciate each one of you who take an extra minute to go the extra mile for me. I cannot thank you and your sweet generosity enough!

{ Many thanks! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

** What are you looking forward to this week? **

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

** Open until Friday at noon! Please spread the word! **
_________________________________________________

Happy Monday, you wild party animals!

PS - Are you on Twitter? Follow me on the go!! :)

Love What You Do

2012-01-05T11:49:00.004-06:00

I just received word that an article I had been chosen to be interviewed for was published in a major Kansas City magazine, and my heart couldn't be happier. Not only does that make me beam from a personal and professional angle, but more importantly I saw how my work effects people in need.

As many of you know I am proud to be a staff member of the nation's largest cancer organization, where every single day I get, yes get, to work with the bravest cancer patients, the most amazing healthcare systems, and the most giving volunteers.

The article featured my cancer patient ride assistance program that I direct here in the Kansas City area, and we are aiming to boost our volunteer drivers. I have received several phone calls already this morning from people genuinely excited to help people by volunteering.

But more importantly, I was reminded in the article that the work I've put into this program helped offer more than 800+ rides to cancer patients in need to an from their life-saving treatments this last year.

Now THAT is what I call pure sunshine.

I love that quote from Steve Jobs above, because it's so true. Everything we do makes a huge difference, so find what you're passionate about, be brave, and just go for it.

So very thankful to love what I am doing each and every day, very blessed to have been a caregiver for two cancer surviving parents, and very happy to be able to help provide the same love and support to other families who have been in my shoes.

Today rocks!

Let's Get Real

2012-01-03T10:36:00.008-06:00

Welcome to 2012, friends!
I hope you all are recovering nicely from such a wonderful whirlwind holiday season! It was absolutely wonderful, lots of great memories man, and fun had, but I am very happy and excited to welcome the new year!

This weekend was an absolute blast that went a little something like this...

.:: NYE ::.

homemade pizza + music videos + dancing + wine pong + midnight kiss
sleeping in + yummy cinnamon rolls + BRGR + settlers of catan
BF's parents house + oklahoma state victory!

...pretty epic weekend. I love getting to spend so much time with Adam. That boy makes me smile!

So naturally, now that the holidays have passed and the new year is here, it's resolution time for this girl. I need a swift kick to the pants, that's for sure!

.:: My 2012 Goals ::.

1) Be Prepared

I tend to be what one would call a "snoozer". I love that snooze button of mine. I once gave it up for lent and thought I was going to die. To die. True story. Needless to say, I can snooze in the morning as long as I have everything ready to go. No more morning chaos... it doesn't make for a happy Meg.

+ Lunches packed the night before
+ Healthy/fresh snacks prepared
+ Do laundry start to finish
(I'm really good at starting... not so good at finishing)
+ Pick out my outfit the night before
+ Have my work bag ready

2) Be Punctual

Work. Friend functions. Dates. Zumba class. Despite my terrible morning road rage, I can't seem to plow through cars to get to downtown. Perhaps I should follow goal #1 to be successful with goal #2? Brilliant. I vow to leave extra early and take pride in being calm and punctual.

3) Be Healthy

I'm telling you, MyFitnessPal is rapidly changing my life with free calorie tracking, health/diet assessment, and accountability. Join me! I've already weight, and I'm inspired daily by my healthy lifestyle living friends!

Now that the holidays are out of the way, I can really hunker down and focus! Try it out and be amazed too! You can friend me: LifeofMeg

4) Be Brave

Expressing how I feel. Trying something new. Letting selfish friends go. Do things that scare me. This year I am going to be brave and step outside of my comfort zone. I want to do things this year with passion, honesty, and courage.

One of my biggest Be Brave goals? I will run a half marathon in 2012.
No matter how hard training is, or how lazy I want to be, I will do it. I've set the date - October 20, 2012 - and I have the world's best running buddy... Adam. We can accomplish anything as long as we do it together.

5) Be Organized

Whether it's my office or my kitchen pantry, I know that messy craziness just stresses me out to the max. I know that I always sleep better when everything is in it's spot, things are well labeled, easy to find, and I have a plan. A few ideas that I'm excited to get started with...

+ closet re-do
+ lots of hooks to hang coats/scarves
+ weekly meal planning
+ storage and cabinet organization
+ work game plans and strategies

6) Be Love

Life is not about me. Life is not about me. I need to repeat that to myself in the mirror every morning. I need to open my eyes and see all of the broken people in this world. I have been so blessed, and there is no reason why I can't give more back. Be love and light to people in need.

Even the people around me everyday that could use just a hug or a smile. So often I get caught up in me and my day, that I fail to see how I can make the day a little brighter for others...

+ more handwritten notes
+ host get togethers
+ phone calls to long distance friends
+ random acts of kindness
+ baking treats for co-workers
+ listening when others need to talk
+ less road rage
+ selflessly love BF better
+ visit home more

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

What are your 2012 goals, my friends?!

New Year Wishes

2011-12-30T10:05:00.005-06:00

Grab your sparkly shoes and cute outfits, ladies!
It's time to ring in the New Year the right way... surrounded by the people you love. I'm really looking forward to spending New Year's Eve with the love of my life and our friends celebrating how wonderful 2011 was.

I have a feeling that 2012 is going to be a very magical year, and I can't wait to see what comes my way!

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

"She had a cocktail in hand and confetti in her hair."

- Kate Spade

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

Whatever your plans are for NYE,
I wish you nothing but happiness, joy and love in the new year...

Wedding Woes: {Dress Help!}

2011-12-29T11:03:00.009-06:00

Alrighty shopaholics... I need your help!
Adam and I are going to our good friends' wedding next weekend. I was going to recycle my black sheath dress that I got on sale last year from BCGB, but due to Adam being in the wedding... I need a dress for the rehearsal dinner too!

Now let me tell you, due to the hundreds of weddings we attended last year... I have plenty of bright, floral patterned dresses. But none of them will work for a winter wedding in freezing January.

Needless to say, I've been on a sale hunt. If I can find one at a decent price, I may wear the black dress to the rehearsal dinner and the new one to dance the night away in! But I need major help!

{ Here are my finds so far... }

#1

Ann Taylor Ruched Dress in Nocturne

#2

Banana Republic Large Polka Dot Dress

#3

Ann Taylor Colorblocked Belted Sheath Dress

#4

Express Pleated Wrap Dress

#5

(Sorry, the photo wouldn't behave!)

LOVE this eggplant color Max & Cleo one-shoulder dress, but $158?

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

Obviously, I would dress an options up with awesome jewelry, black tights and my chunky black booties that I love! But I am not completely sold on any of these options... anyone have any suggestions on where to shop cocktail dresses?!

I'm probably going to hit up TJMaxx, Marshalls, and Nordstrom Rack after work...

Help!

The Slim Down + Cute Gear

2011-12-28T10:07:00.012-06:00

You've seen them everywhere.
Plastered across magazine headlines, endorsing products, and on TV. Successful slim downs of real people who look and feel really good!

I can't help but be inspired by the likes of Jennifer Hudson and Kelly Osborne! They look so awesome and healthy, and they sure as heck didn't get there by sitting around and eating Christmas cookies!

So if you're like me, and you're getting back on track after the holidays, consider jumping on MyFitnessPal! I absolutely love this free online program! It has a free app for smart phones, and adds major accountability to eating right and working out! I lost 4 lbs easily (before gaining back a few the last couple weeks), so I can do it! If you're joining, friend me: LifeofMeg

{ My healthy photo motivation? Erin Andrews. }

Now we all know we can't jump on the slim down bandwagon until we gain some motivation! Naturally, it's hard to get excited about working out, but it's amazing what cute workout clothes can do...

{ Current Crushes }

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

Lucy Novelty Propel Knee Pant - on sale $39!

Lululemon Energy Bra - $42

Lululemon Back On Track Tank - $64

GAP gFsat Colorblock Pants - $54

Casio Solar Running Watch - $14

Bondi Band Workout Headbands (They're SO cute!) - $8

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

So there you have it... my shopping list! One thing I've learned is to not wait until you've reached your goal weight to buy workout clothes - you've got to feel cute and comfortable NOW while you're on your way there!

I'm starting 30 Day Shred tonight for the first time, and I'm really nervous/excited! I may have to place my Bondi Band order super soon.

Adam and I have decided to make running dates for Saturdays/Sundays to help us get ready for our half marathon. I'm going to need something to keep my long hair out of my face. Has anyone tried these? I need a recommendation!

Know of any great workout shopping? Help a sister out!

I'm a BIG GIRL Now!

2011-12-27T11:00:00.009-06:00

Alrighty friends, I'm back!
Thanks for all your sweet messages wondering where I was. I thoroughly enjoyed my time off for Christmas, and it was a much needed break from being so plugged in!

Did everyone have a good holiday? Did Santa come visit you?

Well, I had an awesome Christmas with my family. Adam and I drove down to Wichita to enjoy time before the holidays together at my parents house. He left right before Christmas Eve to head back to KC with his family.

If you were wondering if I was a good girl this year... well I was! I was absolutely shocked to have received this beauty from Santa...

This is something I definitely didn't ask for, but was very appreciated! I feel like such a big girl, especially because I've only had the same ancient TV that I got when I was in 7th grade. Seriously.

My shiny new addition is currently sitting on the world's smallest beat-up wicker table. It's GOT to go! Now all I want to do is go furniture shopping for a cool table for my pretty TV to sit on. This is my current inspiration...

I would love an over-sized table/console that can not only house my TV but pretty decor too! Naturally, I'm in love with all things Crate & Barrel/Pottery Barn, but that may be a little too pricey. There are a few local shops having good sales this week...

Anybody have any other suggestions?!

Mingle Monday Blog Hop

2011-12-19T09:11:00.003-06:00

Good morning, friends!
Happy week before Christmas to you - who's excited?! One thing you may not know about me is Christmas is my absolute favorite time of the year. In fact, I would be happy if it was Christmas every day! :)

With a big snow storm rolling into Kansas City tonight and Wichita tomorrow, we may have a very beautiful white Christmas no matter where I'll be!

My little sister and one of her best friends are heading up to KC today to come spend time with metoday, and I'm sooo excited to see them! They're going to shop til they drop, then we're going to a Christmas party before they head out tomorrow morning to beat the snow storm.

I'm also looking forward a fabulous Christmas date with Adam tomorrow. Excited to go out to dinner at one of our new favorite places and then exchange presents. Bonus? It's going to be snowing big fluffy snowflakes... how romantic! :)

Anyway, enough about me, shall we get this party started? This will be the last Mingle Monday of 2011, and we will start up again in 2012! ...so let's go out with a BANG!

_____________________________________

{ Let's Mingle! }
.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

If you could find it in your big heart to pass the Mingle word along... I will love you forever and ever and ever.

In all seriousness, I truly appreciate each one of you who take an extra minute to go the extra mile for me. I cannot thank you and your sweet generosity enough!

{ Many thanks! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

** What are your holiday travel plans? Doing anything fun? **

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

** Open until Friday at noon! Spread the word! **
_________________________________________________

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Haters Gonna Hate...

2011-12-16T10:58:00.005-06:00

Naturally, I was planning to do a fluffy happy Friday post about my weekend, but I am fired up this morning... so let that be your fair warning. Very few things push my buttons, but when they do... well, look out world.

Let's just be clear before I get started... do I think Tim Tebow is the best player in the NFL? No. Am I his #1 fan? No. Am I a Christian? Yes.

...but do I think the harsh national criticism he's getting for being a Christian is ridiculous? Absolutely.

Let's be clear here, I'm not talking about ahtletic criticism... go right ahead and analyze his palying, I'm talking faith, I came across the most grotesque post about Tim Tebow's faith this morning. Absolutely classless. The title: Tom Tebow Becomes First Christian in NFL

The video was posted by a friend, with comments to follow saying Tebow is just a "gimmicky Christian" who "showboats his faith for exposure." And that folks, is when I lost it...

_____________________________

{ My Thoughts }

1) Critics = Exposure

- I get that many are sick of him being in the spotlight, but it's the critics and media who are overexposing and dramtizing this situattion.
- No stories = no exposure ...you do the math.
- He's an NFL player, his career is already in the spotlight, so why not just focus on the actual game and stop putting it on the front page of every paper.
- Why not just let him do whatever ritual he chooses, just like the rest of the players? Let the boys play, stop publicizing your hater media stance, and move on.

2) Tim Tebow is a class act.

- I am not about to pass judgement on his faith. To each his own. But I am also not going to sit here and criticize what he believes in and how he shows it. That's between him and the Big Man.
- There are a handful of professional athletes that are nice Christian guys/gals... including Tim Tebow. Yes, he is more outspoken than others... some choose to live their faith quieter. Is there one way to do things? Absolutely not.

3) Role Model

- I think he is a moral man who isn't afraid to speak up about choosing to remain celebate until married, giving God the glory in everything, and humbly thanking people.
- He is highly visible in his community helping people who are less fortunate than him, and I respect him as a person for loving on people.
- What a great athlete for kids to look up to.

_____________________________

So there you have it. On that note I have said all I need to, and I'm ready to officially *step down* from my Friday morning soap box.

Like I said, very rarely do I let myself get upset and vocalize it, but judgemental criticism and close-midedness really hurt my heart. I can't stand bullying or unjust jabs, and I think I have UDS ("Underdog Defensiveness Syndrome")...

As always, I respect your views and opinions, and I ask that you respect mine. If you have something uplifting to add, please do, but if you would like to join the critics, please do so on your own blog post.

Over and out...

Absolutely LOVING...

2011-12-15T09:53:00.011-06:00

Who is ready for some Friday?
I have both arms and a leg raised! I tell you what, I couldn't be more excited for a relaxing weekend at home. I'm already making quite the list of things I'm looking forward to!

If you are new to my humble little blog, I can't thank you enough for stopping by! I hope that you will leave a comment and introduce yourself so that I can say hi! :)

Well, due to the complete randomness that is my little blonde brain today, I just have to share these things that I'm completely loving right now. I'm telling you, life is so happy right now that if I don't share, I could possibly turn into to a combustion of glitter and ice cream cones!!

Wow, I think I've had too much coffee...

{ Absolutely LOVING... }

_______________________________________________

1) ... the The Luckiest in Love ornament swap!
I was lucky enough to get paired up with the amazing Rebekah from @ Life with the Edwards, so sent me THE most perfect ornaments...

{ Please excuse the sucky phone pic! They're gorgeous in person! }

2) ...the recent Etsy opportunity God has given me.
Not only can I create beautiful items as my hobby, but to also make a small profit to help with holiday expenses is so wonderful. So blessed that my Cozy Couture Etsy shop has taken off. For your chance to win one, go visit this awesome giveaway at The Luckiest in Love. Giveaway ends Friday!

3) ...MyFitnessPal!
If you haven't heard about this free online tool (also has free phone apps!), it's seriously amazing if you're trying to lose or maintain your weight and healthy living.
I love the accountability it provides since it operates like a healthy living facebook where friends can see your food diary, weight loss, and cheer you on! Don't worry, your actual weight is kept private! :) I've already lost 3 lbs, so find me on there! Username: LifeofMeg

4) ...that sweet, sweet man of mine.
I can't believe this will be our third Christmas together. I feel so mucky to have found the one my soul adores, and my goal is to live and enjoy this beautiful present time.

Looking forward to next Tuesday and the sweet Christmas date he planned for us to exchange gifts and enjoy each other. Isn't the restaurant he's taking me to so cool!?

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

What are you loving today?!

Christmas Cookies: How to Decorate Like a Pro

2011-12-14T10:29:00.015-06:00

Good morning (or should I say afternoon?) lovely ladies!
Can you believe it's Wednesday already? How crazy, but I'm certainly not complaining! In order to brighten your hump day, I wanted to let you know that I'm doing a Cozy Couture custom headwrap giveaway at The Luckiest in Love blog today! Go visit my sweet friend Laura to win your own!

In other news, I have been craving a baking extravaganza lately. And I'm not referring to popping something in the oven real quick, I'm talking all day Christmas cookie pallooza of sorts!

After my amazing, crafty aunt loaded me up with the coolest cookie cutters/edible glitter/frosting tips for my birthday, I'm ready to get to it!

Well, I think i may have found my perfect opportunity! Adam is going out of town on Sunday with one of our best friends, Sean, so I invited Sean's girlfriend (coincidentally my good friend) Ally over for a fun day full of frosting and sprinkles!

Naturally, I needed to do my research in order to decorate like a pro, because let's face it... I can't give my co-workers and friends crappy cookies! I didn't have to search very long before I found this little gem of a blog.

{ Bake at 350: Decorating Tips & Tricks }
_____________________________________

1) Start early.

Cookie decorating is really more fun if you break it up into chunks. Do one of the following to make life easier:

- make the dough ahead and freeze (thaw in the fridge overnight)
- bake the cookies and freeze (thaw at room temperature for a few hours)
- bake the cookies the day before decorating
- make the icing a day (or so) before decorating (if you are doing fine detail work, you'll want to make this the same day you are using)

2) Read up on your decorating techniques!

+ How to use royal icing

+ How to use the flood technique

** These were SO helpful! Can't wait try them out!

_____________________________________

Are you looking for some yummy creative recipes to try? These made our list...

+ Royal Icing Sugar Cookies

+ Gingerbread Dudes & Gals

+ Martha Stewart Christmas Cookies

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

What on your Christmas must-bake list?

________________________________________

PS - In case you missed the Mingle Monday blog hop yesterday, go check it out (open until Friday!)! Get your blog some exposure and find some other great blogs!
________________________________________

Mingle Monday Blog Hop + Giveaway Winner!!

2011-12-12T11:31:00.005-06:00

Howdy gals! Did you survive the weekend?
I'm so glad you could stop by for a visit this morning to a little mingling with moi! I love your willingness to spread the word about Mingle Mondays via blog/twitter - you all are the best!

In other news, I had an awesome weekend full of dinner parties on the Country Club Plaza, Christmas shopping, naps, dates, and coziness! Shockingly, my house is clean, my laundry is done, healthy meals are made, and my gym bag is packed. Umm... winning!

I also, spent the several hours working on the world's cutest orders for my Etsy store, Cozy Couture custom headwraps!

I even made a custom blinged out headwrap for a good friend of mine (Please excuse the crappy cell phone photo)! ADORABLE, right? I may have to make myself a blinged out one! I can't thank all of you enough for your orders and support! SO SWEET!

_____________________________________

One more thing...

the WINNER of last week's Thoughtfully Designed giveaway is...

{ AMANDA!!! }

* Amanda, to redeem your giveaway prize, please e-mail me at:
megnificentlife {at} gmail {dot} com

_____________________________________

{ Let's Mingle! }

.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

If you could find it in your big heart to pass the Mingle word along... I will love you forever and ever and ever.

In all seriousness, I truly appreciate each one of you who take an extra minute to go the extra mile for me. I cannot thank you and your sweet generosity enough!

{ Many thanks! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

** What are your favorite holiday traditions? **

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

** Open until Friday at noon! Spread the word! **
_________________________________________________

Have an awesome week!

World's BEST Date Night!

2011-12-08T11:40:00.006-06:00

That's right, it's THURSDAY!!
...which means it's date night with my hunky man friend (he would chuckle and shake his head at me if/when he reads this)! So he text me a little while ago and said he has something planned out... isn't that adorable? I sure thought so.

So, after we eat dinner at my house and make the Christmas cookies that I need to bring to my work party tomorrow, we're doing this...

Christmas light touring!!! Bonus? It's supposed to snow tonight! :)
BF is planning for us to pile in his mini cooper, stop by Starbucks to get peppermint cocoas, and then go holly jollying around town!

He even mapped out which parts of town have the coolest light displays, and it's going to be such a great time! Christmas in KC is SO pretty...

Bella Beast even got invited to ride along with us, so it's going to be a pretty snuggly night! Looking forward to making memories and enjoying doing holiday festivities together! We'll cap off the great evening by making these yummy treats for tomorrow' party...

What seasonal must-do's are on your holiday list?

{Giveaway}: Thoughtfully Designed

2011-12-07T13:25:00.013-06:00

Calling all brides!!!
You can't miss this awesome giveaway! Miss Laura, author of The Luckiest in Love blog, is offering a $20 credit from her Thoughtfully Designed Etsy shop.

Oh gal pals, you have GOT to see her stuff! I know when my special day comes, I am going to be ordering hotel guest door hangers and bouquet charms out the wazoo! Here's a sneak peak...

{ How To Enter }
_______________________________________________

For one entry each, please leave separate comments if you do the following:

+ Visit Thoughtfully Designed, and leave a comment here
on what you would use your $20 credit to buy.

+ Add Thoughtfully Designed as a favorite on Etsy.

+ Like the Thoughtfully Designed facebook page

+ Follow Laura's blog - The Luckiest in Love

_______________________________________________

Winner of the $20 Thoughtfully Designed Etsy credit will be announced this Friday morning! A big thanks, once again, to Laura for offering her beautiful talents! Excited to see who wins!

Good Luck Dolls!

________________________________________

PS - In case you missed the Mingle Monday blog hop yesterday, go check it out (open until Friday)! Get your blog some exposure and find some other great blogs!
________________________________________

It's A Wrap: Holiday Edition

2011-12-06T10:53:00.017-06:00

My oh my, how's everyone doing today?
I was all snuggled in my bed with my fluffy puppy this morning, when I woke up to a text from BF saying it snowed! What a great way to wake up! :)

Luckily KC just got a light dusting, but it made my work commute about 90 minutes... gee whiz! Good thing I had my Christmas music to keep me company, eh?

So, like most of you, I have Christmas on my mind and can barely believe it's less than 3 weeks away! I made a point to purchase Christmas presents early, so almost everyone is checked off my list! Now all I have to do is the wrapping...

Never before have I purchased everything in enough time to add personal touches to the wrapping, so this is my year! I am loving the brown paper and twine themed gift wrapping this year! Here are a few photos that I'm using for inspiration...

Now if only I had these things to help me out... I mean how cool would it be to have a gift wrap ROOM!?

{ Buy HERE }

Here are some of the DIY wrapping how-to's that I will be visiting:

- Martha Stewart: Christmas Workshop

- Real Simple: 21 Holiday Gift Wrapping Ideas

- BHG: Christmas Crafts & Decor

What holiday wrapping trends are you loving?

________________________________________

PS - In case you missed the Mingle Monday blog hop yesterday, go check it out! Get your blog some exposure and find some other great blogs!
________________________________________

Mingle Monday Blog Hop!

2011-12-05T11:04:00.009-06:00

Well this Monday is off to a bang already!
Geez Louise! After an unexpected hour long commute to downtown this morning, I spent the last hour cancelling all of my checking/credit/and debit account cards... awesome. Needless to say, my little Vera Bradley wallet is still in OKC somewhere and I'm here. The good news? All accounts look fine and everything is taken care of.

On a brighter note, I had a great weekend visiting my besties with Adam in OKC this weekend! My OSU Cowboys won Bedlam, and brought the craziness to OU.

I also, spent the several hours in the car finishing two orders for my new Cozy Couture custom headwrap Etsy shop! I received several new orders last night and I am so pumped! Come check it out - cozy, affordable Christmas gifts!

If you're new to [Life of Meg] or Mingle Monday... I want to welcome you from the bottom of my heart! I am so very happy to have you join us today and I look forward to discovering new blogs!! :)

{ Let's Mingle! }

.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

If you could find it in your big heart to pass the Mingle word along... I will love you forever and ever and ever.

In all seriousness, I truly appreciate each one of you who take an extra minute to go the extra mile for me. I cannot thank you and your sweet generosity enough!

{ Many thanks! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

** What's on your Christmas list? Anything fun?! **

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

** Open until Friday at noon! Spread the word! **
_________________________________________________

PS - Those following me on Twitter know that I joined MyFitnessPal this weekend for some extra weight loss accountability!

If you need a boost, join for free, track your calories and we can do this together! I even have my skinny Meg motivational photo up! My username: LifeofMeg

Happy Monday, lovelies!

Holiday DIY Round-up

2011-12-01T11:49:00.007-06:00

Happy December to you, my friends!
Can you believe how fast fall and the month of November flew by? I can't either! Flipping my little desk calendar to December this morning was weird concept...

I figured I would share my Pinterest holiday DIY roundup with you! I am dying to get crafting and decorate on a budget... check out these fun ides on my Pinterest "Christmas" board...

Who else has exciting DIY projects to share?!
I need more fun ideas...

Cozy Couture

2011-11-30T10:49:00.006-06:00

It's offical... I'm an Etsy seller!
With the inspiration from several of you wonderful blog friends, I've opened my super fun shop... Cozy Couture! With such an interest via e-mail yesterday, I am now selling my custom crochet headwraps made by yours truly! They're adorable, trust me... you'll love them!

Go stop by for a look-see, and let me know if you would like to order one for a Christmas present... or even for yourself! Many styles to choose from and you suggest any color you would like! Only $15 including shipping... what a steal!

PS - From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the three of you who have already placed orders! I love you to death, and your support means the WORLD to me!!

SO excited!!

A Holly Jolly Evening

2011-11-29T14:13:00.014-06:00

Did you think I forgot about you today?
Heavens-to-betsy... no way! I've simply been majorly busy at work and I'm just now eating lunch and breathing. It's been one heck of a day!

After a 2 hour dentist appointment (I will soon be the proud new owner of a crown and no wisdom teeth...), a morning full of work craziness, and a visit from my favorite baby mama co-worker (and her chubby, adorable baby!) who has been on maternity leave, I need a night of relaxation!

Phew... I'm ready for things to settle down around here!

After work I am taking Bella Beast to the vet and then I'm FORCING myself to go to Zumba class. I need to work off Thanksgiving and get back into a healthier habit! Anyone else? After that, I am doing a bit of this...

.::: Headwrap Crocheting :::.

.::: Christmas Decorating :::.

.::: Banana Bread Baking :::.

.::: Elf Watching :::.

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

In need of some inspiration yourself? Check out my boards on Pinterest! It's going to be a relaxing and productive evening! Plus my Hotty McHotterson BF is planning to stop by for a bit... lucky me! ;)

PS- Thinking of selling my homemade corcheted headwraps in customized colors for $15 (including shipping!). I have crocheted several headwraps with an adorable flower on the side and button enclosurer in the back. I can also make the double button in the front wrap! Interested? E-mail me: megnificentlife (at) gmail (dot) com

Hope your evening is holly jolly!

________________________________________

PS - In case you missed the Mingle Monday blog hop yesterday, go check it out! Get your blog some exposure and find some other great blogs!
________________________________________

Healthy Leftover Turkey Pot Pie

2011-11-28T14:55:00.006-06:00

Raise your hand if you have a heaping amount of turkey leftovers from Thanksgiving. Yeah, I know... I have both hands AND a leg up. Of course that turkey is delicious the first and second time around, but I think I would probably scream if I had to eat another turkey sandwich. Who's with me?

Well don't you worry your pretty little heads, I have a delicious and super healthy alternative!

After browsing through cookbooks and the internet, I was inspired to turn a deep southern comfort food into a healthy guilt-free dish we all can enjoy. After combining several recipes and making healthy swaps, I have finished my masterpiece.

Trust me, you could fool your friends, family, and even your significant other with this dish. It's veggie filled, low fat, packed with fiber and protein, and hits the spot! The best part? It took me 5 minutes to make the whole dish!

{ Healthy Leftover Turkey Pot Pie }

Ingredients

- Bag of mixed frozen veggies partially thawed (corn/peas/carrots combo)
- 3/4 can of unsalted green beans
- 1/2 teaspoon of minced garlic (I used pre-minced jar garlic)
- 2 cups lean cooked turkey cubed (you can sub chicken)
- 98% fat free cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup skim milk
- salt & pepper to taste
- pre-packaged pie crust (feel free to make your own - I was in a hurry!)
- 9" pie pan

Directions:

1) Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees.

2) In a bowl, combine all veggies, garlic, turkey, soup, and milk.

3) Season the mixture with a generous amount of pepper and a little salt (optional).

4) Pour the filling mixture in an ungreased pie pan.

5) Roll out your pie crust to top the filling. be sure to carefully seal the side by pinching dough to pie pan. Cut several slits in the center of the pie for steam to escape.

6) Bake for 40 - 45 minutes until crust is a light golden color.

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

I made this delicious pot pie for BF last night when he came to visit, and we both thought it was the best thing that ever happened to turkey! It tasted hearty, creamy, and the crust added the perfect flaky texture to a yummy low cal dish!

After hearing Adam's rating was 8 or 9 stars out of 10, I knew it was a keeper. Boyfriend tested, boyfriend approved! ;)

Bon Appetit!

Mingle Monday Blog Hop!!

2011-11-28T10:58:00.006-06:00

Holy mashed potatoes... I think I am still full.
Do anybody else's pants feel a wee bit snug this morning, or am I the only one? After an amazing Thanksgiving weekend at my parent's house, I am back to the grind! One thing is for sure... I will be forcing myself to hit Zumba class tonight to work off that extra piece of pumpkin pie! Yowza.

Those of you who follow me on Twitter know that I hit Black Friday hard, and now have 80% of my holiday shopping completed! Anybody find some good deals? What about Cyber Monday?

So with quite a hefty break from regular blogging, I have several fun things planned for the week, including my Healthy Turkey Pot Pie recipe for all of you stuck with leftovers! So I hope you stay tuned!

If you're new to [Life of Meg] or Mingle Monday... I want to welcome you from the bottom of my heart! I am so very happy to have you join us today and I look forward to discovering new blogs!! :)

{ Let's Mingle! }

.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

If you could find it in your big heart to pass the Mingle word along... I will love you forever and ever and ever.

In all seriousness, I truly appreciate each one of you who take an extra minute to go the extra mile for me. I cannot thank you and your sweet generosity enough!

{ Many thanks! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

** What was the best Black Friday/Cyber Monday deal you got? **

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

** Open until Friday at noon! Spread the word! **
_________________________________________________

PS - Looking for great inexpensive holiday gift ideas?

Check out Scentsy! I bought my mom, sister and BF's mom a Scentsy warmer and bars last year and they LOVE them! Yummy scents that will make your whole home smell like Christmas! My office smells like Pumpkin Roll as we speak!

Check out Lindsey's Bryan's Scentsy Cyber Monday deals!! Click on the "Cyber Monday" party to shop!

$25 purchase - Get a FREE Scentsy Bar
$50 purchase - Get (2) FREE Scentsy Bars
$100 purchase - Get a FREE Plug-in Warmer

* You will be contacted after order is placed to recieve your freebies! *

.:::.:::.:::.

Happy Monday, dolls!

Gobble, Gobble, Gobble!

2011-11-23T08:34:00.003-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving Eve!
I am guest posting over at Poodleism today, so make sure you check it out - Tips on being a better YOU! In other news, I get off of work at noon today (thank you Mr. CEO man!), I'm planning to force myself to hit the gym before I spend tomorrow consuming calories, and then I'm headed home with my brother when he gets off work!

Luckily for me, he lost a bet when my O-State Pokes crushed his K-State Cats a few weeks ago, and will be funding the gas and driving for our little roadie...

Can I get an amen?!

Anywho, I hope all of you traveling have a very safe trip wherever you are celebrating this year! I'm trying to focus on actually being actively Thankful this year, because I truly am so grateful for all the blessings God's given me!

I absolutely loved this Thanksgiving wish poem that I stumbled across last year, so I thought I'd share it again! Wishing you and yours a beautiful pound-free holiday! ;)

{ Happy Thanksgiving, Friends! Thankful for YOU! }

T’was the night of Thanksgiving,
But I just couldn’t sleep.
I tried counting backwards,
I tried counting sheep.

The leftovers beckoned,
The dark meat and white.
But I fought the temptation,
With all of my might.

Tossing and turning,
with anticipation.
The thought of a snack
Became infatuation.

So I raced to the kitchen,
Flung open the door,
And gazed at the fridge,
Full of goodies galore.

I gobbled up turkey,
And buttered potatoes,
Pickles and carrots,
Beans and tomatoes.

I felt myself swelling,
So plump and so round.
‘til all of a sudden,
I rose off the ground.

I crashed through the ceiling,
Floating into the sky,
With a mouthful of pudding,
And a handful of pie.

But I managed to yell
As I soared past the trees
Happy eating to all,
Pass the cranberries, please!!

May your stuffing be tasty
May your turkey be plump.
May your potatoes and gravy
Have nary a lump.

May your yams be delicious,
May your pies take the prize
And May your Thanksgiving dinner...

Stay off of your thighs!

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

Gobble, gobble gobble! :)

________________________________________

PS - In case you missed the Mingle Monday blog hop yesterday, go check it out! Get your blog some exposure and find some other great blogs!

PPS - Keep up with me on the fly! Tweet tweet...
Follow me HERE!
________________________________________

Mingle Monday Blog Hop!

2011-11-21T10:23:00.005-06:00

Welcome to a short work week, friends!
I am working Monday, Tuesday and a half day on Wednesday (so excited!). Everyone have a great weekend? Any big news? Fun plans?

My birthday weekend was absolutely perfect! I enjoyed a nice sushi dinner out with all my friends, ate copious amounts of food/sweets (**see weekly question** haha), went to the cabin, and enjoyed a relaxing time with BF/friends/fam! Bday recap coming tomorrow! Meanwhile... shall we get to it?

If you're new to [Life of Meg] or Mingle Monday... welcome! I am so very happy to have you join me today and I look forward to your comments!! :)

{ Let's Mingle! }

.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

If you could find it in your big heart to pass the Mingle word along... I will love you forever and ever and ever.

In all seriousness, I truly appreciate each one of you who take an extra minute to go the extra mile for me. I cannot thank you and your sweet generosity enough!

{ Many thanks! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

** What is your go to workout DVD (I need recommendations!)? **

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

** Open until Friday at noon! Spread the word! **
_________________________________________________

Wishing you an awesome week!

Birthday Weekend Snapshot

2011-11-17T15:35:00.003-06:00

Alright ladies, I'm headed out for the weekend!
Saturday is my big 25th birthday (yes, quarter of a century!), and I have some big plans over the next few days! I couldn't be more thankful to my friends, family, and co-workers for already making me feel so special, celebrated and loved this week, and my big day sin't even until Saturday!

Spoiled? Yup.

Here's a little snapshot of birthday fun to come...

{Thursday} Sushi dinner with BF + friends tonight at a swanky/trendy sushi bar in Town Center. Cupcakes by my favorite bakery, Cupcakes a la Mode, and wine to follow at mi casa... can't wait!!

{Friday} Coffee date + early morning Breaking Dawn showing with my sweet friend, Karen! I've been waiting a solid year to see this Twilight wedding and I'm about to pee my pants... anyone else? BF and I leave for his parents cabin to celebrate my birthday this weekend - we love roadtrips!

{Saturday} Sleeping in + movies + puppy snuggles + breakfast + long walks + board games + great company... what more could a girl ask for?

{Sunday} We're headed to Wichita to see my parents and my little sister for my birthday festivities. I have already received a text asking what birthday dessert I would like. My choice? I asked for a surprise! Spontaneity is the spice of life right?

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

I definitely don't need any presents. I will gladly accept a day that's full of kisses, glitter, puppy dogs, ice cream, and fun. Yup, just call me low-maintenance.

Happy early weekend, Dolls!

Donuts, a Concert, and a Winner!

2011-11-16T14:04:00.013-06:00

Holy Smokes, I have so much to catch you up on!
Well, for starters, let me share a little weekend day date with you! Adam has been wanting to take me out to Louisburg Cider Mill for some fresh homemade apple donuts and cider... yum!

He picked me up on Saturday morning and we took a little road trip. The place was absolutely adorable, and look just like a snapshot from Country Living magazine. They had the most adorable shop where we bought waaayyy too many homemade jams/mixes/honey/cider!

We of course had our yummy donuts and cider, and even got to see how they were made...

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

We also went to see City and Colour perform in Lawrence with our favorite couple friends on Monday night. We had SUCH a blast! We ate at a yummy local pizza joint and then walked across the street to The Granada, where I fell in love with this song...

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

In case you entered the $100 Scentsy giveaway yesterday, we have two winners!!

$100 Credit - Bonnie Sowell

Half Priced/Free Products - Carmen Leonard

*Lindsey will be in touch with you shortly to redeem! Congrats!! :)

Don't worry, you can still shop Scentsy. I just ordered a bunch of holiday scented bars to give to friends/family, and I am deciding which Christmas warmer to buy - they're all so cute!

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

Hope you crazy kids are having a lovely day!!
Hugs n smooches!

$100 Scentsy Giveaway

2011-11-15T10:46:00.013-06:00

Boy do I have a fun giveaway for you!!
Today's amazing giveaway is hosted by Independent Scentsy Consultant, Lindsey Bryan {my dear friend}. The winner of this giveaway will get a whopping $100 in Scentsy products. What a generous prize, right?!

For those of you who haven't heard of Scentsy, let me take a moment to fill you in! Scentsy is a super safe, wickless alternative to scented candles - I leave mine on all day {I own 3!}, and come home to a delicious smelling home! Friends ask me 24/7 why my house or work place smell SO good!

My Favorite Scents:

- Welcome Home
- Pumpkin Roll
- Cozy Fireside
- Cinnamon Vanilla
- Maple Butter
- Thunderstorm

Scentsy products include but are not limited to: warmers, perfume, room spray, plug-ins and so much more!

________________________________

HOW TO ENTER:

Visit this website HERE to enter, and fill out the entry form to win!! So easy to enter.

** Need Twitter account in order to enter **

________________________________

*ALSO... an additional giveaway*
If anyone places an order {no minimum amount!} on Lindsey's Scentsy site today only, you will be entered in a drawing to win additional discount/free products! Winners announced tomorrow!

So whether you are brand new to Scentsy, want to buy amazing Christmas gifts for family/friends, or need to re-stock your Scentsy bars, go visit Lindsey for this early Black Friday deal/giveaway!

{ Does anyone else love their Scentsy too?! }

I'm heading to shop as we speak...

PS - Interested in hosting a giveaway or monthly advertising/sponsorship?
E-mail me at megnificentlife {at} gmail {dot} com

Mingle Monday Blog Hop!!

2011-11-14T13:50:00.005-06:00

My goodness, gals! I'm so sorry..
It's been a busy working day here in the big KC and I was not prepared for Mingle Monday as usual. But don't you fret, the party has officially arrived!!

I have been looking forward to this week for a while now... because it's my birth week! Yes, yours truly will be 25 this Saturday, and this week is full of celebrations and festivities! Don't you worry, I have a weekend update coming tomorrow, and I will also fill you in on b-day fun, so stay tuned!

If you're new to [Life of Meg] or Mingle Monday... welcome! I am so very happy to have you join me today and I look forward to your comments!! :)

{ Let's Mingle! }

.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

If you could find it in your big heart to pass the Mingle word along... I will love you forever and ever and ever.

In all seriousness, I truly appreciate each one of you who take an extra minute to go the extra mile for me. I cannot thank you and your sweet generosity enough!

{ Many thanks! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

** What is the best b-day party you've ever been to? **

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

_________________________________________________

Wishing you a glitter and puppy dogs kind of day!

World's Greatest Cinnamon Rolls

2011-11-10T15:55:00.008-06:00

Alright, I've promised to share this recipe ever since I taught my girlfriends how to make cinnamon rolls last weekend. This recipe was absolutely perfect and the best one I've found yet! The roll is soft and melts in your mouth, the center is packed full of cinnamon sugar goodness, and the cream cheese frosting is so light and fluffy... a little piece of heaven, folks!

Don't you worry, you can totally do this! As long as you stick to the steps, making these shouldn't be intimidating, even if you've never tried making them before!

Let me guide you through this simple process, and in the end your family/significant other/siblings/friends/etc. will be so impressed and begging for more.Promise!

Not to mention, these rolls would be the perfect hostess treat during the holidays. Just whip up a batch and bring them home to your mama... she'll love you forever. Nobody has to worry about breakfast and everything is still homemade! Freezes well too!

Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Inspired by Bon Appetit at Foodess

Dough

1 cup whole milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 1/2 cups (or more) unbleached all purpose flour, divided
1/2 cup sugar
1 large egg
2 1/4 teaspoons rapid-rise yeast (from 2 envelopes yeast)
1 teaspoon salt
Pam or nonstick spray

Filling

3/4 cup (packed) golden brown sugar
1/4 cup white sugar
3 heaping tablespoons ground cinnamon
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature

Frosting

4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
___________________________

Directions:

1) Combine milk and butter in glass measuring cup. Microwave on high until butter melts and mixture is just warmed, 30 to 45 seconds.

2) Pour into bowl of stand mixer and use the paddle attachment. Add 1 cup flour, sugar, egg, yeast (already prepared - see yeast packet instructions), and salt. Beat on low speed 3 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down sides of bowl.

3) Add 21/2 cups flour. Beat on low until flour is absorbed and dough is sticky, scraping down sides of bowl. If dough is very sticky, add more flour by tablespoonfuls until dough begins to form ball and pulls away from sides of bowl.

4) Turn dough out onto lightly floured work surface. Knead until smooth and elastic, adding more flour if sticky, about 8 minutes. Form into ball.

5) Lightly oil large bowl with nonstick spray. Transfer dough to bowl, turning to coat. Cover bowl with plastic wrap, then kitchen towel. Let dough rise in warm draft-free area until doubled in volume, about 2 hours.

For Filling:

1) Mix brown sugar, sugar and cinnamon in medium bowl.

2) Punch down dough. Transfer to floured work surface. Roll out to 15×11-inch rectangle. Spread butter over dough, leaving 1/2-inch border.

3) Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over butter. Starting at 1 long side, roll dough into log, pinching gently to keep it rolled up.

4) With seam side down, cut dough crosswise with thin sharp knife into 18 equal slices (each about 1/2 to 3/4 inch wide).

5) Spray two 9-inch square glass baking dishes with nonstick spray. Divide rolls between baking dishes, arranging cut side up (there will be almost no space between rolls).

6) Cover baking dishes with plastic wrap, then kitchen towel. Let dough rise in warm draft-free area until almost doubled in volume, 40 to 45 minutes.

7) Preheat oven to 375 degress. Position rack in center of oven .

8) Bake rolls until tops are golden, about 20 minutes. Remove from oven and invert immediately onto rack. Cool 10 minutes. Turn rolls baked side up.

For Frosting:

1) Combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla in medium bowl. Using electric mixer, beat until smooth, light and fluffy

2) Spread frosting generously on the rolls. Serve warm or at room temperature.

So, I hope you will give yourself some credit and have the confidence to tackle these! It really is WAY easier than it sounds, and as soon as I showed the girls, they felt confident to re-create this treat for their holiday celebrations!

After I made these, I got requests from my brother, friends and family to whip some up for them too! Good thing I have the day off today, right? Have a great weekend!

Bon Appetit!

Chicago Trip In Pictures

2011-11-10T10:02:00.021-06:00

I know it's been a long time coming...
but my Chicago trip photos are here to share! After quite the long camera ordeal, I now have it fixed and I'm just reliving our awesome trip by sharing these photos with you!

For those of you that weren't in the loop, BF and I took a train trip to Chicago to spend a long weekend with his sister and her fiance. I absolutely fell in love with Chicago, and had a blast with some of my favorite people.

Before I share, I first need to say thank you to all of you wonderful friends who suggested places for us to visit, dine, and shop! I tried as many suggestions as possible, and overall... it was one of the best trips ever!

Our trip first started when Adam's sweet mom dropped us off at the Amtrack train station at 6 a.m. Please note our much needed coffee pick-me-ups! Yowza. Adam had never been a train before, and I was in 3rd grade when my parents took us on a train vacation so we were really excited.

We were actually surprised by how much room we had in the cabin. Our seats fully reclined, were super comfy, which worked out well for our early morning naps! We talked, read, watched movies, and whenever we needed a scenery change, we went to the observation or dining car!

If you ever want to look into a train trip, we loved Amtrack! What a cheap and stress free way to travel - check it out!

{ Isn't the view pretty? }

That evening we went out to dinner to celebrate our 2 year anniversary, and just had a great time walking hand in hand as we explored the city.

The next day Adam and I decided to grab a coffee and walk to Millennium Park, which was only a few minutes away. We watched the kids play in this awesome fountain for a while, then headed over to The Bean to visit this must-see cultural icon.

We met up with Meredith and Kyle after that for an adventurous afternoon, including Navy Pier, the lake, the aquarium, a boat ride, and adorable photos by the fountain...

Unfortunately, my silly camera died after our first full day there, and like you know, my camera charger went MIA.

I wish I could've captured our adventures in Wicker Park/Bucktown, the amazing food tour {highly recommended!}, our sunset visit to the John Hancock observatory {check out the view here!}, countless long gourmet dinners, and shopping extravaganzas... *sigh* Take me back!

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

Have a travel itch that you need to scratch? Where do you think your next trip will be?

Stay tuned... world's best cinnamon roll recipe coming soon!
Yummmm....

Calling All Yogis

2011-11-09T09:44:00.005-06:00

Have any of you ever practiced yoga?
I've been tossing around the idea for a while as a source of extra relaxation after work, and a change in exercise. After weeks of shopping around, I was extremely excited when there was a Groupon for unlimited yoga at the studio close to my house!

Well, after a long afternoon of work yesterday, I was feeling extremely stressed out. Unfortunately for me, whenever I stress it triggers the beginnings of intense migraines. I rushed home to take my Rx, and then I thought I would check out the yoga class schedule for the evening... I was in luck!

I officially attended my first yoga class in KC last night and I completely loved it. It was challenging by deeply relaxing. I absolutely loved the deep stretching and breathing exercises throughout my 90 minute class... I'm hooked.

When I left class, my mind was at peace, I worked out my sore muscles from Monday's run, and my body felt like a big pool of melty butter. When i woke up this morning, I felt like it helped me sleep much better and deeper than normal, so I'm feeling great this morning!

Haven't tried yoga? I encourage you to buy a one class pass to try it out! It was a super non-intimidating environment, so I felt encouraged and motivated. Self-esteem boost? yes, please!

{ Any yogis out there? }
What do you love about yoga?

Also looking for recommendations on where to buy cute yoga tops/pants, and what brand of mat to buy! :)

Namaste... ohhhmmmm

Holiday Party Invites { Help! }

2011-11-07T14:11:00.010-06:00

Just in case you missed Mingle Monday...
I need your help deciding which invitation design to order for my Christmas cookie swap! Tiny Prints makes it super hard to decide, because everything is adorable. Plus, being chronically indecisive doesn't help...

{ Cast Your Vote! }

Option 1

Option 2

Option 3

Option 4

Option 5

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

Thank you so much for taking the time to help me make up my mind! I have to know by today to get their big discount!! Girly advice is always helpful, right?

You're the best.

Mingle Monday Blog Hop - HELP!

2011-11-07T12:33:00.002-06:00

Happy Monday, blogosphere!
Did ya'll have a great weekend? Busy? Relaxing? I spent Friday through Sunday is the town of Osborne, KS... population: 1431. Yes, I survived the tiny town with one grocery store and 2 restaurants. I went to visit one of my dear friends (who moved their with her husband last year)and spend the weekend with all of our girlfriends - what a blast!

Although I did enjoy the quietness of a tiny town, I am a city girl at heart. I can get my much needed dose of wide open spaces, but I don't know how I could stand everyone knowing my business - haha!

Anyway, I missed you guys! I was a bad little blogger last week, but I have some fun stuff planned for this week - including a cinnamon roll recipe that's to DIE for! I also need your help MAJORLY with the question of the week - so please give me your advice!

{ Let's mingle! }
.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

If you could find it in your big heart to pass the Mingle word along... I will love you forever and ever and ever.

In all seriousness, I truly appreciate each one of you who take an extra minute to go the extra mile for me. I cannot thank you and your sweet generosity enough!

{ Many thanks! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

I need your help!! Hosting a cookie swap at mi casa in December...

** Which holiday party invite should I choose? **

Option 1

Option 2

Option 3

Option 4

Option 5

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

_________________________________________________

A BIG thanks to all of you who are helping me decide! I have to order them off of Tiny Prints by today to get their big discount of invites/christmas cards/etc site-wide! Check it out!

Lots of love!!

Date Nights for Dummies

2011-11-01T11:20:00.007-05:00

Let me just start off by saying that I've been spoiled rotten... Yes. Adam is a date night genius and I'm the dummy. For as long as I can remember, Thursdays have always been "our" night. No friends, no fam, no outside conflicts or plans. Just the two of us enjoying an evening together and catching up on "Madam" (Meg + Adam) time.

It really doesn't matter if he comes over to my place, we make dinner together and watch a movie, or if we go out on the town. I live for Thursdays.

Ladies, my boyfriend is a total stud. He always has the best ideas and I have to actually fight him to ever get the slight chance on me paying for something we do. He's too good to me.

All of this being said, BF got back from a long work trip last night, and I was just a little overwhelmed by how much I missed him while he was gone. I couldn't get enough hugs throughout the evening with our friends, and my heart leaped everytime he said "I missed you." Now with Thursday approaching I want to do something special and plan a fun date.

This is where you come in.

Unlike my creative other half, I lack the think fast know-how skills. It's really easy to fall into the same routine and plans (...don't get me wrong, I absolutely love movie night/sweat pants/snuggling like the best of them), but he deserves something low-key and special... help!

I wanted to surprise him with an evening visit to the Louisburg Cider Mill, but unfortunately the darn place closes at 6 p.m. I love making him dinner, not doing anything too fussy, but fun! We're a very simple/easy-to-please couple.

{ What ideas do you have for me for a fun evening? }

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

Meanwhile, while trying to do a little fun research I came across these great sites (here, here, and here) full of more ideas in case you're like me and need some fun inspiration too! Ideas that stuck out so far...

+ fondue for two
+ living room picnic
+ visiting the playground
+ feeding the ducks at a pond by my house
+ urban spoon everything (how spontaneous!)
+ board game night
+ outdoor smores + wine
+ try a new restaurant
+ progressive dinner

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

Anything awesome come to mind? Send this girl a few pointers!

Mingle Monday: {Halloween Edition}

2011-10-31T13:39:00.003-05:00

Happy Halloween!
I hope you're having a ghoulish day so far! I apologize for coming to you a little late - we had a zombie themed lunch party at work... complete with face paint, costume contest, skits, and brains (lunch). My party contribution? I made these spooky finger cookies and mummy cupcakes.

Anyone dressed up today?! What are the best costumes you've seen. During my 45 minute commute to downtown KC, I saw a vampire driving an Audi convertible, a dog in a shark costume, and a witch in a blue slug bug. Such a great people watching morning!

{ Let's mingle! }
.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

If you could find it in your big heart to pass the Mingle word along... I will love you forever and ever and ever.

In all seriousness, I truly appreciate each one of you who take an extra minute to go the extra mile for me. I cannot thank you and your sweet generosity enough!

{ Many thanks! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

** What are your spooky Halloween plans? **

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

_________________________________________________

Wishing you a spooktacular day!!

Fall Baking + Randomness + A Holiday Deal!

2011-10-27T09:43:00.009-05:00

I am sure all of you thought I fell off the face of the planet... which wouldn't be far from the truth. This week is our massive city-wide breast cancer walk, so naturally I've been swamped! No worries, I'm here for a brain break.

Luckily, I've been keeping up with a lot of you from a far (aka: my cell phone browser), and it's been a week of fun posts! Hope you all are doing really well.

As I sit here in my office while downing my delicious oatmeal and coffee, I have a lot of crazy random in my head, so you have been properly warned!

1) Happy Girl

Is it ridiculous that I woke up with a huge smile on my face because it's date night? Yes, I realize that I have a solid 7-8 hours before this commences, but I am so excited! On the agenda tonight? Running with my buddy, yummy dinner, redbox, and puppy snuggling. We love nights in sometimes! :)

2) Best. Decor. Ever.
I found this little gem on youtube and seriously can't get enough of it! It's hilarious! So naturally I sent it both to Dad and BF so that they can turn their houses into Halloween pallooza... have you seen this?!

...or in case you were looking to sync your lighting to "Party Rock"...

...hilarious, right?

3) A Fall Must Bake

Remember these super scrumptious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins recipe from last year? They are such a solid hit that I actually get requests to make more. I just made a batch last night, and I'm already 2 down. Granted I had zero self-control in the presence of pumpkin greatness, but BF is pretty excited to sample while visiting tonight!

4) Party Pooper

Unfortunately, due to the craziness that is the breast cancer walk this weekend, I have turned down two Halloween party invites. Silly work. My master plan is just to throw some costume together for family dinner on Monday and pass out candy to the little tykes that stop by Adam's casa for a visit. I'm so lame. What are you guys doing?

5) Bring on the parentals!

Mom and Dad are coming up to KC for a weekend visit, and I couldn't be more excited to see them! Naturally, my mom being a breast cancer survivor, they are coming up to participate in the big walk. Those two are just too fun to hang out with, and I know it's going to be a relaxing and fun post-walk weekend!

If you would like to consider giving up your $5 afternoon latte or $10 takeout to donate to finding a cure for breast cancer, click here to visit my team donation page!

6) Need Extra Holiday Money?

Have an Etsy shop? Side business? Know somebody who does? I would love to help you increase your sales for the holiday season! For a limited time, I am offering 30% off my already low monthly sponsorship rates! Monthly sponsors get prime ad space, detailed intro post, and exclusive opportunities to offer giveaways!

Please send me an e-mail at megnificentlife@gmail.com if you are interested and would like more information. I'd love to help you out!

.:::.:::.:::.:::.:::.

Wow, that was a lot of spontaneous brain blurbs, wasn't it? Let it sink in, my friends. So thankful that I have such great blog friends, like you, who let me get out all the craziness in my head.

I am just loving all of your comments, tweets, and e-mail - you totally make my day!

Mingle Monday Blog Hop!

2011-10-24T10:33:00.002-05:00

What a spectacularly fun weekend!
Although jam-packed with fall parties, dinners out, an engagement party, a birthday party, and a barbeque... it was such a wonderful weekened. Not to mention, my dear friend Lindsey is in town to visit me until Wednesday! I went to bed last night so happy and exhausted.

Did you all have a good one? Feeling a little sleepy this morning too? Don't worry, hopefully Mingle Monday will give you all the boost you need!

{ Let's mingle! }
.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

If you could find it in your big heart to pass the Mingle word along... I will love you forever and ever and ever.

In all seriousness, I truly appreciate each one of you who take an extra minute to go the extra mile for me. I cannot thank you and your sweet generosity enough!

{ Many thanks! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

** What is the best Halloween costume idea that you've come across (or done yourself!)?**

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

_________________________________________________

Go show that Monday who's boss!

Cozy Weekend Wishes

2011-10-21T09:32:00.004-05:00

Thank goodness it's Friday! Can I get an amen?!
Oh my goodness, I have been waiting for another fabulous weekend to commence. This weekend for me is jam-packed full of fun and people I love - so ready!

Tonight, some of my co-worker girlfriends are hosting a little fall party happy hour complete with wine, pumpkin carving, snacks, and girl chat {so excited!}. I love my working girls!

After that, I'm heading down to the Plaza to eat dinner with Adam, his family, and his sister's future in-laws. I know, it's confusing, but it should be awesome and relaxing! It's been a while since I've seen them!

BF and I are beginning our year-long commitment to running a half marathon together this Saturday morning. It should be a nice little 2-mile jog together, and we're bringing the Beast! That little pup sure loves to run wild!

Good friends and Adam's fam are headed into town on Saturday afternoon for his sister's engagement party, so we're looking forward to spending time with them and celebrating Meredith and Kyle's engagement all night! Great food, yummy wine, and good company! :)

Sunday is church, Adam's cousin's daughter's 3rd birthday {yes, I know. Confusing again), and then r-e-l-a-x-i-n-g. One of my besties, Lindsey, is headed in town to visit me Sunday night until Wednesday morning, and my fam will be in town next weekend! I am just getting showered with people I love lately... loving life!

You see that handsome devil?
Yup, I'm still basking in the glow of our super fun date night last night. Burgers, pumpkin beer {Schlafly's Pumpkin Ale... yum!}, fro yo, and then college football with friends. He sure makes me smile... looking forward to sharing the weekend fun together! :)

{ What are your fun plans?! }

Wishing you a cozy weekend!

Believe In You

2011-10-20T09:25:00.007-05:00

I shared this with a very special person this morning who was needing some love... So I thought you might be able to use some encouragement this morning too. It's so easy to slip into the deep waters of life seeming very overwhelming. Getting caught up in the details of the day-to-day can bog us down, but don't forget how amazing you are.

I absolutely love this quote so much . What a great reminder of all the things we're capable of if we just believe. Just believe.

You know, whenever I feel a little over powered or beaten down by work/life/situations, I love to play this song by NeedtoBreathe. Such a powerful reminder that I'm not in control, but God's got me in his hands. Life will feel overwhelming at times, but He will never let me down.

Feeling bogged down today? Take heart, friends. You are much stronger today than you were yesterday, and a little less than you will be tomorrow.

Sending love and hugs!

________________________________________

PS - In case you missed the Mingle Monday blog hop yesterday, go check it out! Get your blog some exposure and find some other great blogs!

PPS - Keep up with me on the fly! Tweet tweet...
Follow me HERE!
________________________________________

Social Weekend Recap... Woah.

2011-10-18T14:21:00.011-05:00

Holy cupcakes, friends... today has been a bluuurrrrr!
I'm sorry I am just now getting to you over my lunch break (yes, I realize it's 2:45 p.m.). With two of my co-workers on maternity leave for the next 3 months, life around the office has been quite a tad bit overwhelming at times.

Not to mention the face that I got up well before Jesus this morning {hello, 5:55 a.m.} for an oncology board meeting... so I'm a little frazzled.

Luckily, my humble little blog relaxes me, and I seriously can't express to all of you how much I love hearing from you gals! I know I've received so many e-mails asking about my Chicago trip and to see photos {thank you!}, but my camera charger is still MIA. Don't worry, I WILL find it, dag nabbit!

I figured my weekend was filled to the brim of social butterfly-ness, So how about a little recap, eh?

.:: Weekend a la Mode ::.

1) Friday night was totally awesome. Adam and I swung by a chili cook-off festival with one of couple friends, then made our way downtown to a good friend's architecture show. Free wine, heavy {tasty} appetizers, and all of our favorite friends? Yes, please! :)

2) We tailgated with our friends for a few hours on Saturday before the big Sporting KC soccer match that afternoon. The weather was absolutely heavenly, and we loved getting in one last tailgate of the season! My O-State Cowboys were playing during the game, but thanks to BF and his techy new iPhone, I was granted free score updates... GO POKES!

3) K-state football was on TV that evening, so we cooked out with the gang for a bit, but I pooped out pretty early - Sooo sleepy!

4) Enjoyed such an awesome service at church on Sunday morning, and left inspired and motivated to be love to the world. God is so good, friends. Preach it, sista!

5) The rest of the day I crammed in a monstrous grocery run, a top-to-bottom house cleaning {even the yucky nooks and crannies), and organized the crap out of all my... well, crap. It. Felt. So. Good. It's always an awesome feeling when you go to bed at night with no clutter, fresh sheets, clean dishes, and food cooked for the week.

6) It was nice to kind of escape the chaos of being with people all weekend to enjoy a quiet dinner with BF at one of our favorite restaurants - Cafe Trio! We used our Groupon, sat on the romantic patio balcony {which is filled with adorable paper lanterns and garden tea lights}, and enjoyed each other's company. Girls, that man is too good to me!

7) And finally, I have to just say that I am loving life right now. After a fun-filled weekend, I have to say that I feel so overwhelmingly blessed by my little KC family of friends.

8) And let's just get a little sappy, shall we? I don't think I ever knew it was possible to fall more in love with Adam, but it is. I love that man a little more every day, and I'm so blessed by his compassionate heart, sweet compliments, ridiculously fun ideas, and laughter.

{Love you, sweetie.}

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

How was your weekend?
Were you a social butterfly too?

________________________________________

PS - In case you missed the Mingle Monday blog hop yesterday, go check it out! Get your blog some exposure and find some other great blogs!

PPS - Keep up with me on the fly! Tweet tweet...
Follow me HERE!
________________________________________

Mingle Monday Blog Hop!

2011-10-17T10:47:00.002-05:00

My oh my, my heart is happy today! After such a fabulous weekend full of good company, fun outings, and lots of happiness, I'm in a super great mood today. Despite the chilly cold front that is moving in, I'm happily listening to my mellow Norah Jones pandora station, while wearing my over sized cozy sweater and sipping coffee... Monday perfection.

It's already been a super productive day at work so far, so I needed a quick mental break while I'm in between projects. So, I want to hear from you! How are you feeling today? Is everybody doing okay? Hopefully if you need some cheer, Mingle Monday will be just what you need!

{ Let's mingle! }
.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

Will you do me a favor today, sweet friends? Will you perhaps mention Mingle Monday in a post today or this week? We've had such a great turnout the last few weeks and I love visiting all of these new blogs, and have them visit YOU!

{ Thank you!! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

** What life lessons are you learning OR what goals do you have for yourself right now? **

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

_________________________________________________

Hugs and smooches!

Feeling A Bit Off...

2011-10-13T11:06:00.003-05:00

Have you ever had those days where you just feel off. Your mind is a little overloaded, your heart is overwhelmed, and you just feel discouraged. Sometimes you don't even know why you're having one of those days, but you just are.

That's me today.

I'm getting over being sick yesterday.
I miss home.
I miss my family.
Work is super overwhelming.
I have a lot and very little on my mind... at the same time.

I just feel small a little small today in such a big and powerful world, but do you know what? Even on off days, it's so good to know that God's in control, no matter what. Just having the ability to ask for peace to mask an off day is so reassuring.

Among the chaos called life, it's completely okay to have bad days. I've come to realize it doesn't make me any less perfect than desired, just human. Very thankful for all of you today, and being able to get that off my chest.

So if you're feeling the same way today, take heart my friends. Good days are headed our way soon.

Sending hope, cheer, and sunshine your way!

To Do: { Girly Fun }

2011-10-11T14:28:00.005-05:00

Unfortunately, I have yet to discover where I put my camera charger/uploader, so no trip photos for you today. Sorry! However, in leiu of payday being Friday, and my overwhelming desire for some fun DIY projects or fun on the town... I have so many fun things on my list for the next few weeks.

Have any of you been doing some festive seasonal projects? Had any fun adventures? Been to the pumpkin patch? Made something delicious for dinner? I'm dying to create!

{ This OPI "Espresso" shade is on my wishlist - perfect for fall! }

.:: Looking Forward To ::.

+ THIS festive DIY pumpkin project
+ picking some apples to make some homemade applesauce
+ trying these tasty recipes
+ planning for this challenge with Adam
+ making these adorable snacks for football sunday
+ using our Groupon to our favorite KC restaurant
+ seeing this fabulous movie possibly tonight

What's on your fun list, my fraaans?

________________________________________

PS - In case you missed the Mingle Monday blog hop yesterday, go check it out! Get your blog some exposure and find some other great blogs!

PPS - I'm {finally} on Twitter!
Follow me HERE!
________________________________________

Mingle Monday Blog Hop!

2011-10-10T11:09:00.006-05:00

I made it back after such a fabulous Chicago weekend!
After such an unbelievable dream trip with my love and some of our favorite people, I feel like I am just glowing today. My heart is basking in the afterglow of memories made and fun times had. A HUGE thank you to all of you who left advice and great city tips - you're the best!

Dying to share all the photos, stories, sweet moments, and fun with all of you, but first we must mingle! And second, I should probably try to find my camera charger/loader... but stay tuned!

Anyway, I hope all of you are doing well! I absolutely love seeing what you're up to via Pinterest and Twitter, so keep the good things a'coming! It's fun to connect outside the blgo world too!

{ Let's mingle! }
.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

Will you do me a favor today, sweet friends? Will you perhaps mention Mingle Monday in a post today or this week? We've had sucha great turnout the last few weeks and I love visiting all of these new blogs, and have them visit YOU!

{ Thank you!! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

** What is the beauty product or products you swear by?!**

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

_________________________________________________

Hope your week is off to a great start!

Pinch Me... Is This Real?

2011-10-05T09:06:00.005-05:00

Well loves, the day I've dreamed about for months is almost here... we're leaving on a train tomorrow morning bound for Chicago! In case you forgot, I have fantasized about an amazing fall train adventure for months now!

Actually, probably since my very first date with Adam a couple years ago when we saw (500) Days of Summer... sigh.

Love that darn train scene.

This is going to be such a beautiful trip. It already feels special and exciting! I'm not really sure why, but I'm so ready for our fun adventure to start!

Le Train...

+ coffee in the dining car
+ cards, board game and movies
+ people watching
+ visiting the observation car to scenery gaze
+ traveling side-by-side

Looking forward to...

+ celebrating our two year anniversary
+ spending time with Meredith and Kyle
+ site-seeing via food tour
+ being outside
+ walking and public transportation
+ spontaneity
+ ridiculously good food
+ sleeping in
+ gorgeous city sunsets
+ seeing Chicago for the first time

Well don't worry, I will be sure to take a million bajillion photos so that I can share my fun with all of you when I get back.

This whole thing just doesn't feel real - but eeeeek!! - can't wait for tomorrow!! How will I ever sleep tonight?!

________________________________________

PS - In case you missed the Mingle Monday blog hop yesterday, go check it out! Get your blog some exposure and find some other great blogs!

PPS - I'm {finally} on Twitter!
Follow me HERE!
________________________________________

Colorado Recap + Trip Photos

2011-10-04T10:20:00.013-05:00

I have received lots of cute e-mails asking about this past weekend's trip... soooo, I thought I'd better share my little trip recap and the photos I snapped. First off, can I just say that you should be completely impressed that I remembered to take photos! I'm usually terrible, but I tried so hard!!

So let's get down to business, shall we?!

{ Here's the Colorado trip gang }

We left Thursday evening after work, piled in two cars, and arrived in lovely Colorado at 2 a.m. Friday morning. After catching up on sleep and downing a good breakfast, we were off to Denver to explore!

First stop... IKEA heaven.

I could've spent hours in there! Have you been to IKEA? Oh my word, y'all... love that store. I didn't go too crazy, but I got some super useful shelves and hooks for my home!

After IKEA, we all checked into our hotel, shockingly crammed all of us in one room, and then left for the Great Amnerican Beer Festival! Pretzel necklaces and matching tie dye in tow... of course!

{ Isn't BF handsome?! Geez! }

{ On our way into downtown Denver on the Light Rail }

{ I love my Ally bear, she's the sweetest! }

After we waited in line with 20,000 of the nation's finest beer lovers, we were finally allowed into the convention center to enjoy the festivities!

{ Gotta have a fleet of bagpipers, right? }

{ Sean and Dan being... well, Sean and Dan }

{ Seriously love this girl! }

As crazy as a beer festival may sound, it wasn't as wild as you would think. I sampled about 15 beers, but that was over the course of 4 hours and they were only 1 oz. samples. - so the eqivalent of 1.25 beers. Were you thinking I was a lush?! Shame on you! ;)

I left the convention center with a list full of new tasty favorites:

- Pyramid Brewery Apricot Ale
- Cigar City Brewery Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Brown Ale
- Cigar City Brewery Imperial Pumpkin Ale
- Sea Dog Blue Paw Wild Blueberry Wheat Ale

Notice a theme with the yummy "girly beers"? I typically like lighter beer with delicious fruit tones, and these hit the spot!

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Anyway, that was a fun night, but I was pooped at 10:30! We all got some rest and headed back to Colorado Springs in the morning to stay with good friends.

In the afternoon, we walked to a groegous neighborhood park and played frisbee, football, and soccer. After a few hours in the sun, we walked back to the house, took naps, and watched football. That evening we had a huge BBQ with all of our favorite Colorado friends. It was a great night full of good food and fabulous company!

On Sunday morning we woke up, had some breakfast, and hit the road! The entire ride home we were cracking up as we reminisced about the trip and told funny stories. I sure love those people... great weekend!

Lots o' Love!

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PS - In case you missed the Mingle Monday blog hop yesterday, go check it out! Get your blog some exposure and find some other great blogs!

PPS - I'm {finally} on Twitter!
Follow me HERE!
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Mingle Monday Blog Hop!

2011-10-03T09:29:00.004-05:00

After an amazing Colorado weekend, I am back!
I can't wait to tell you fun stories from my trip and hear all about your weekends! Who did anything fun? Any good stories to share?

Well firends, I will share my trip photos/stories with you later, but this week's question is a must answer! If you've been to Chicago I need your help! We leave for CHI on Thursday morning and I need advice!!!

{ Time to mingle! }
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Pretty Pretty Please...

Pass on the Mingle love. Slip it in a post. Share with a friend. Anything.
As always, if you can find a special kind spot in your heart to want to spread the word, I would love that!

{ Thank you!! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

It's Monday, let's talk about those little bothersome things:

** What is a Chicago must/see/dine/experience?!**

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** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

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Now go get 'em tiger!

Colorado or Bust!

2011-09-29T09:48:00.019-05:00

Today is the day I've been waiting for!!
I am literally counting the seconds until 6 p.m. 25,860 in case you were wondering. I'm looking forward to piling in the pimped out Explorer (thanks Adam's parents!) with BF and some of our very best friends!

Eight solid hours of pure roadtrip bliss. Don't you worry though, I'm the master of roadtrip entertainment! I have my bag packed full of movies, music, magazines, games, coloring books (big kids can like them too!), and crossword puzzles. Eek!

{ Let the fun begin! }

Looking forward to seeing this gorgeous fall landscape...

...enjoying some Great American Beer Festival...

...hiking through Red Rocks...

...and roadtripping fun with the gang!

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This trip has always been such a complete blast, so I am about to pee my pants with excitement! In fact I woke up with a huge smile on my face. Now my Bella Bear is dropped off at her Auntie Karen's house, and my suitcase is ready to go in my car. Just ready for work to be over and the fun to start!

Now for your enjoyment, picture from last year...

{ Isn't BF cute?! I love my ginger! }

{ Pretzel necklaces are a must! }

{ Oh beer fest... why are you so fun? }

Welp, friends, I'm off to enjoy the day and be super productive! I will be sure to take lots of pictures (I'm so bad at sharing them with you guys!). Wishing you all a wonderful weekend!!

PS - Have Twitter? Keep up with my Colorado adventure HERE!

Colorado Bound!

The Here & Now

2011-09-28T10:55:00.004-05:00

Absolutely love this quote and everything it stands for. Living and loving in the here and now is the most important thing to remember. Life will unfold as time goes on, but choosing to be present everyday and loving life is a gift!

Happy Wednesday, Love Bugs!

Travel Tips + Packing Preview

2011-09-27T11:01:00.018-05:00

It's hard to focus today.
From the moment I opened my eyes this morning, I knew it was going to be a copious-amounts-of-coffee kind of day. Since filling up my pastel polka dotted mug, I am much more awake... but I have only one thing on my mind. Traveling.

That's right. This Thursday I am heading for the gorgeous Rockies to spend a long weekend with BF and our friends. We have so much fun packed into our little agenda that I can barely contain myself.

Great American Beer Festival. Visiting good friends in CO Springs. Hiking through Red Rocks. Exploring downtown Denver. Oh my goodness... take me there now!

Needless to say, this little blonde has some packing to do! One thing that you may not know about me (and BF + family can testify to) is that I am a slowly recovering compulsive over-packer. Three day stays with 3+ bags in tow is not something to brag about y'all!

Luckily for me (and you!) I have graduated over-packing rehab, and have decided to share some packing tips and tricks that I've learned with you today!

Some of you experienced packing professionals may scoff at some of these "no-brainers", but maybe I can help offer a handy new solution?!

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{ Travel Tricks + Tips }

1) Do the Roll

Want to beat the wrinkle monster and save space? Roll your clothes! All you have to do is lay out your favorite blouse, fold in the arms, and begin rolling tightly from the neckline all the way to the shirt hem. Tuck it in your suitcase, and voila! Room for 15 more tops for your 4-day trip! ;)

You can even lay several tops on top of each other and roll all together to save more room! Clothes come out looking wrinkle-free and this space saver works like a charm! More directions here.

2) Munchkin Size

As you know, I am from Kansas, which naturally means I naturally am linked to The Wizard of Oz. The movie si even life applicable... I think. When packing your toiletries, do as the munchkins do, and buy travel sized!

I purchased my own cute little travel refillables so that I can bring my favorite products with me

3) Bottle Saver

I don't know about you gals, but I always travel with a few Camelbak or Nalgene bottles. Gotta stay hydrated! In case you're in need of more room, you can always put your travel sized item, toothbrush/toothpaste, etc. in your bottle.

It saves your toiletires from getting dirty in your make-up bag too!

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{ My Roadtrip Necessities }

{Yup, that right there is my packing "carry on" preview.}

Cute hoodie, yoga pants, a hat for messy hair, and the mini DVD player are a must! I have some snacks and mags thrown in there for entertainment value too! SO MUCH to get done tonight!!

What can you not live without on a trip?
Any tips or tricks to share with me?!

Happy Tuesday, lovelies!

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PS - In case you missed the Mingle Monday blog hop yesterday, go check it out! Get your blog some exposure and find some other great blogs!

PPS - I'm {finally} on Twitter!
Follow me HERE!
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Mingle Monday Blog Hop!

2011-09-26T10:21:00.003-05:00

Happy Monday, my friends!
This is a short work week for me, which explains why I am in such a fabulous mood today! The weekend was a complete blast with tons of friends, but I'm in desperate need of working out, doing laundry, and packing for my Colorado trip!

How are you guys doing today?! Is everyone hanging in there? Well, let's get this party started and catch up on some great blogs, shall we?

{ Time to mingle! }
.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

Pass on the Mingle love. Slip it in a post. Share with a friend. Anything.
As always, if you can find a special kind spot in your heart to want to spread the word, I would love that!

{ Thank you!! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

It's Monday, let's talk about those little bothersome things:

** What are your biggest pet peeves?! **

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

_________________________________________________

Wishing you a beautiful week!

Fall + Weekend = Happiness

2011-09-23T12:05:00.011-05:00

Today is officially the first day of fall...
{ahhhh!!} ...and I couldn't be more excited [obviously]!! Autumn is by far my favorite season on the year for oh-so-many fabulous reasons. Everything about it makes my heart happy!

Time to break out the pretty patterned tights, courderoys, and scarves! I have SO many yummy things waiting in my "Fall Baking" board on Pinterest... I may have to go to town in the kitchen this weekend!

{Side note}
I made the most amazing Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwiches on Wednesday! Soft/chewy pb cookies filled with a pb butter cream... they blew my mind!

They were a HUGE crowd-pleaser with my Bible study/BF/guy friends! Stay tuned - recipe coming this afternoon!

.:: Looking Forward To ::.

ok state football games + our colorado trip + fall decor + halloween
pumpkin spice lattes + cozy warm cashmere + brown riding boots
pumpkin patch trips + fall decorating + hosting a fall party
chicago trip + my 25th birthday + yummy seasonal beers
our anniversary + pretty leaves + running outside
thanksgiving + apple picking + doggy park trips
patterned pretty tights + gorgeous weather

.:::.:::.:::.:::.

Well, I'm looking forward to a relaxing weekend at home. While I'll be missing my favorite buddy, I have a soccer team to cheer on, lots of outings planned, girl time to be had, and a baby shower to attend! Pretty jazzed about it!

{ What are you up to this weekend, loves?}

Wishing you a happy one!

Dreamy Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies

2011-09-22T16:25:00.007-05:00

Calling all peanut butter lovers!
I was majorly wanting to bake earlier this week, opened my pantry, and saw peanut butter. After scouring my recipe books and online, I combined a few, and found some inspiration from this blog.

The recipe make a bajillion melt-in-your mouth, d-r-e-a-m-y peanut butter sandwiches! Super soft/chewy cookies, and smooth peanut butter cream in the middle!

I first shared them with my bible study girls, but then I thought I would play cookie fairy and surprise BF with the rest. Well Wednesday night is my girls bible study night, and Adam hangs with the dudes, so I didn't want to interrupt man time!

So... I drove over to his house, tip-toed up his stairs, and left a big pan of them on the door step. After driving down the street I sent him this text as I giggle uncontrollably...

"A little birdy told me you have something special on your front porch."

About 30 seconds later I got a call from him saying they are ridiculously tasty and he appreciated that so much. 500 girlfriend points for me! Within minutes, I had texts from all of his roomies saying the cookies blew their minds.

{ Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies }

** Definitely a must try for all peanut butter lovers!! **

Ingredients

1 c peanut butter
1 c sugar
1 c packed dark brown sugar
1 c shortening

1 1/4 t vanilla
3 eggs
3 c flour
1/2 t salt
2 t baking soda

Sandwich Filling:

1/2 c unsalted butter, softened
1 c peanut butter
4 C powdered sugar
2 t vanilla
4 Tbs milk

Directions

1) Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2) Cream the shortening, peanut butter, sugar, and brown sugar together until well blended and fluffy.

3) Slowly add vanilla to the wet mixture at low speed. Next, add the eggs one at a time just until mixed (don't over beat).

4) Combine together flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Once blended, add to the wet mixture a little at a time until just barely combined.

5) Roll the dough into Tbsp sized balls and place on an ungreased cookie sheet. flatten dough balls by pressing the fork into the dough making a criss-crossed pattern.

6) Place in the over for exactly 7 minutes. The cookies may not look done, but this is normal. Once you remove them from the oven, they will continue baking on the sheet for 2 - 3 minutes. Remove cookies from the baking sheet

Filling: Beat peanut butter, butter, sugar, and vanilla together until smooth, if needed, add milk until desired consistency is reached. When cookies are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on one side and sandwich together.

yield: about 4 dozen sandwiches

Bon Appetit!

A Little Reminder...

2011-09-22T12:07:00.006-05:00

I think sometimes it's easy to get wrapped up in the chaos of life and let the important things be forgotten. One thing that you should always remember is you are a beautiful person who truly can make a big impact on the world. So let me be that reminder to you today... thanks to the fantastic quote above from "The Help".

{ Please tell me you saw it?! }

I encourage you to go be the fabulous, confident woman that God made you to be, and go make a difference today! Random acts of kindness, sweet words, or even a smile. Even the little things count!

{Be kinder} than you think is necessary, and I promise you will add a little bit of sunshine to someone else's day... and yours too!

Hugs & Love!

DoubleTree Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-09-21T15:17:00.010-05:00

Start your ovens, ladies!
Boy have I got a recipe for you! So, I'm not sure how many of you have actually been a guest at the DoubleTree hotel, but perhaps you've heard of their legendary cookies?

Well, we have a partnership with the DoubleTree here in Kansas City, and when we had a meeting with them in the office, they brought us a ton of yummy chocolate chip cookies!

Naturally, I had to try one... duh. As soon as that delectible cookie hit my taste buds, I knew I had to find the recipe STAT. After doing some research, this is the recipe that I've found on several sites. Apparently it use to be on the Top Secret Recipes web site, which is now charging a small fee for it.

So, here ya go! I can't wait to test it out too, and be another one of the thousand people who say it's spot on the money!

{ DoubleTree Chocolate Chip Cookies }

{img}

Ingredients

1/2 cup rolled oats
2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1-1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
1 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1-1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. lemon juice
2 eggs
3 cups semi-sweet, chocolate chips
1-1/2 cups chopped walnuts

Instructions

1) Grind oats in a food processor or blender until fine.

2) Combine the ground oats with the flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon in a medium bowl.

3) Cream together the butter, sugars, vanilla, and lemon juice in another medium bowl with an electric mixer. Add the eggs and mix until smooth.

4) Stir the dry mixture into the wet mixture and blend well. Add the chocolate chips and nuts to the dough and mix by hand until ingredients are well blended.

** For the best results, chill the dough overnight in the refrigerator before baking the cookies. **

5) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spoon rounded 1/4 cup portions onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Place the scoops about 2 inches apart. Bake for 16 minutes or until cookies are light brown and soft in the middle.

** They may look underdone, but this is normal and the secret to perfectly soft bakery-style cookies. They will continue baking on the sheet after you take them out of the oven. **

6) Remove from the baking sheet after they cool for 4-5 minutes. Serve and enjoy!

{img}

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Is anyone else in love with DoubleTree cookies too?! Can't wait to get baking!

Bon Appetit!

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PS - In case you missed the Mingle Monday blog hop yesterday, go check it out! Get your blog some exposure and find some other great blogs!

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Denim Distress + Splash of Random

2011-09-21T11:46:00.021-05:00

First off, I am in need of some fashion advice...
I'm pretty sure I've been a GAP girl since the day I was born. Everything usually fits me well, I love their design aesthetic, and it lasts me for years! Unfortunately, I have a few pairs of jeans that are either worn out or too snug, so I dropped by GAP last week to explore.

Too baggy. Too tight. Too long. Too awkward.
That's pretty how my GAP denim extravaganza went.

I've been considering making a denim investment, especially after reading Rachel's post on Citizens of Humanity. I want a dark wash with nice lines that will hold up. I would love to find a pair that fit my body perfectly, but I've come the realization that a good pair may cost more than my usual $59.50.

{ So yes, where do you buy your jeans? }

{ Citizens of Humanity: "Kelly" }
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On to that splash of random that I talked about...

1) Best. Dinner. Ever.

I was invited out to dinner at Capital Grille with Adam and him parents last night for his Dad's birthday. I have to tell you that I think this was one of the best meals I've ever had. I ordered the petite fillet mignon with crimini mushroom sauce, and BF and I split a huge vat of garlic mashed potatoes. Yummm!

In case that didn't clog our arteries enough, we split the world's most amazing coconut cream pie and a complimentary flourless chocolate espresso cake with his parents. I don't think I've ever been happier to change into my stretchy yoga pants than I was last night.

To top it off, I woke up full... ugh. Hello detox day!

2) Photo Texts

About a month ago, my 2 best friends {who live about 3 hours away from me} and I started sending each other "getting ready" photos. It all started when I sent this picture to my dear Courtney, because I wanted to showcase the gorgey earrings she gave me for being in her wedding.

Despite the bad lighting, it's fun to send/receive photos, get outfit ideas from each other, and feel like you're catching up! I was proud of the little number I threw together for work yesterday. It's shocking how put together you look when you try?!

You should try it out with your gal pals! What a fun way to see each other - whether near or far!

3) Bella Beast's B-day

My sweet little baby Cockapoo is turning 3 on Monday... where have the years gone?! I sure love my big baby so much, and I couldn't ever imagine my life without my snuggly girl!

I've been browsing around to try and find a doggie cake recipe on Pinterest, but only found homemade doggie treats... waa waa. I may try this Peanut Butter Birthday Cake recipe - she loves the PB! Has anyone ever made a doggie cake before? Tips? Advice?

Well, I promised random and oh boy, did I deliver or what?! Lots of crazy shenanigans going on in my noodle today! Hope y'all are having a great week so far!

Let me know what random things are on your mind!

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PS - In case you missed the Mingle Monday blog hop yesterday, go check it out! Get your blog some exposure and find some other great blogs!

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Confessions of the TV Obsessed

2011-09-20T14:40:00.005-05:00

Hello, I'm Meg and I have a problem.
Ihave a complete obsession with good {and not so good} fall TV.
Holy cow, y'all! My DVR is totally packed with shows that I need to catch up on, or are coming up soon. Are you obsessed with new shows/series too?!

For example, thanks to my dear sweet Daddy, I was reminded to DVR "The Sing Off" last night. Boy did it not disappoint! I am completely in love with this amazing rendition of "Waving Flag" by the acapella group The YellowJackets.

In fact I loved it so much, I replayed it at least 7 times while dancing around with Bella Beast in my living room. And then I may or may not have played it again this morning [twice] while getting ready. Fast forward to the 2 minute marker to listen!

I have a whole slew of other upcoming gems on my fall TV list...

{ Must Watch }

+ How I Met Your Mother
+ Glee
+ Dancing With the Stars
+ New Girl
{Hello, Zooey D!}
+ Biggest Loser
+ Dance Moms
+ Project Runway
+ It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
+ Pan Am
+ Anything w/ the Kardashian sistas!
+ The Amazing Race
+ Real Housewives of Orange County

.:::.:::.:::.:::.:::.

What's on your fall must watch list?!
Do you have any awesome show suggestions for me?!

{I need more shows like I need a hole in my head... haha!}

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PS - In case you missed the Mingle Monday blog hop yesterday, go check it out! Get your blog some exposure and find some other great blogs!

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Mingle Monday Blog Hop!

2011-09-19T10:30:00.003-05:00

Welcome back to the work week, ladies! Did everyone survive your weekend festivities?! Any good must tell stories? I sure hope you all had a very lovely few days to relax a recover!

Well, I made it back to Kansas City after spending a busy weekend with my family at home. We had a great time celebrating the world's greatest little sister! Once we got home lats night, I was so pooped that I don't think I left the couch for 4 hours. A girl has to catch up on her DVR, right?

Anyway, I'm glad you decided to stop by for a visit. I don't think you all know how much I love your sweet comments! I plan on being super active this week - because I have lots of great things to share!

{ Shall we get mingling?! }
.::::...::::...::::...::::..::::.

Pretty Pretty Please...

Pass on the Mingle love. Slip it in a post. Share with a friend. Anything.
As always, if you can find a special kind spot in your heart to want to spread the word, I would love that!

{ Thank you!! }

_________________________________________________

How To Mingle:

1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Answer the weekly question...

** What kind of [Life of Meg] posts/topics are your favorite, or what would you like to see?! **

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **

_________________________________________________

Make your Monday count, girlies!