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October 31, 2012

Desperate SOS!!

Alrighty ladies, I'm calling for an SOS - I need your help! I was so completely devastated to find out that my dear blog friend, Jen @ Life, Love, & Puppy Paws, who participated in my Fall Frenzy Blog Gift Swap spent $30+ to send a care package to her swap buddy... and then never heard from her again.

This is just not okay in my book.

It honestly makes me sick to my stomach and breaks my heart. Please don't take advantage of my blog opportunities, and more importantly don't take advantage of my blog friends!

Jen and I have both reached out to that individual in several different ways and have not heard back once. So now it's time to ask for some help. I could not imagine sweet little Jen spending all of that time and money to get nice, quality gifts to send and get nothing in return. So disappointing.

Jen deserves the world.

Let's help her feel special.




So, I am organizing a cheer effort! In order to make sure she generously receives as much as she put into her gift, I am personally going to send her a surprise in the mail today!

...is anyone else interested in possibly sending her a few surprises?! It could be $5 worth even! Candy, cards, candles, fun girly things.

If you might be able to help out, I would forever be grateful!! Leave me a comment with your e-mail address and I will e-mail you details ASAP!

I believe in integrity, trust, positive encouragement, and loving/caring for each other. Now, it would be so amazing to share that festive spirit with such a sweetheart!

A HUGE thank you to Amber @ Brunch With Amber for signing up to help out! You're a DOLL! Go visit her and say thanks. Her blog is off the wall, fantastic!

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


Please let me know if you could extend some cheer ASAP! :)

A MILLION thank yous!

 



Spooktacular Plans + Halloween Wishes

Happy Halloween, boys and ghouls!
I'm sure many of you commuted to work in witch outfits, or have spooky plans for tonight - so fun! We're having a Halloween party here at the office which includes a costume contest, chili cook-off, and a haunted house!

This is wedding week for my sweet future sis-in-law, Meredith, so her and her fiance get into Kansas City this afternoon. We are planning a fun Halloween dinner and family time... counting down the minutes!

Today is my Friday, since I took off Thursday and Friday to help my soon-to-be fam get ready for the world's most gorgeous wedding. We are over the moon excited for MEredith and Kyle and I am looking forward to the celebration to begin!

Of course, I thought we all needed a spooky fun poem to get us in the trick-or-treating moon! {Yup, you're welcome for my nerdiness!)



 
It's Halloween! It's Halloween!
The moon is full and bright,
And we shall see what can't be seen,
On any other night.
Skeletons and ghosts and ghouls,
Grinning goblins fighting duels,
Werewolves rising from their tombs,
Witches on their magic brooms.
In masks and gown, we haunt the street,
and knock on doors for trick or treat,
tonight we are the king and queen
for oh tonight, it's Halloween!

 
- Jack Prelutsky

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

I wish I could give each one of you a yummy piece of candy to celebrate... but that doesn't quite workout throught the interwebs.

Sooo... in honor of Halloween, I'm offering a Sponsorship Spooktacular sale for 30% off all sponsor spots for new sponsors! So, knock yourselves out! ;)
Promo code: SPOOKTACULAR


What are your spooky Halloween plans, my friends?
Any crazy work outfits spotted? :)




October 30, 2012

Our Engagement Photos

After showing you guys a sneak peek of our engagement photos, I have been really excited to show you the rest of our favorites! Your comments were so sweet, and we're just really excited to have beautiful photos that capture how much we love each other.

I cannot even begin to tell you how much we enjoy our photographer, Sharaymauck Photography. She is such a sweetheart with clever, unique ideas.

When we told her we would love photos that really show our relaxed personalities and how much we love being outside, she gave us just that!

We love how they turned out!!









Isn't that man super handsome? I sure think so! And no, we definitely didn't plan on getting photo bombed by a horse at the barn... but that surprise sure turned out cute. He followed us around the whole time - haha!


Dying to hear what your faves are!
We can't decide! :)



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PS - Don't miss this week's link-up!
Drop by the Mingle Monday Blog Hop and pick up some new blog followers!

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October 29, 2012

Mingle Monday Blog Hop!

L uckily I have survived the whirlwind of weekend.
We raised just shy of a half of a million dollars at our breast cancer walk on Saturday!! What generous, giving hearts we have right here in Kansas City! We can't wait to serve cancer patients and their families with that amazing amount!

I was determined to start the week off right by getting up extra early to squeeze in a workout before work. Not going to lie, it feels good. I may be swtiching to a.m. workouts to get me wedding dress ready!

Anyway... let's kick this week off right! The more each of you passes the word along to your blog friends, the more people will stop by to visit you!

_________________________________________________

A Huge Thank You...

...in advance for spreading the word! Blog post, Twitter, smoke signals... you name it, I love it! The more this continues to grow, the greater your chances to gain some wonderful new followers and find great blogs!

{ Many thanks! }


LIFE OF MEG


_________________________________________________
 


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) Answer the weekly question in the comments section below...

** What keeps you motivated to live a healthy lifestyle? **

 
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Go Visit My Lovely Sponsors!!

These gals are wonderful and have amazing must-follow blogs and an amazing accessories shop, trust me. If you haven't stopped by to see what they have to offer... you're missing out!






 
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Starting at a mere $8 for a whole month of exposure, grab your sponsorship spot today!
With more than 30,000 original page hits a month, and 850+ hits per post, this is a great opportunity for you to gain traffic and followers!



STAY TUNED!
To come this week....

Tuesday - Engagement Photos
Wednesday - Halloween Fun
Thursday - Cozy Couture
Friday - Wedding Ode + Weekend Outlook


Happy Monday!!!













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

October 26, 2012

Engagement Photo Sneak Peek + Weekend Wishes

With our big breast cancer walk tomorrow morning, we've been pretty crazy here in the office. So many things to do before we greet thousands and thousands of Kansas City pink-wearing residents and honor survivors!

So needless to say, I didn't even realize I had a facebook alert this morning! I got tons of texts from Adam and friends saying our wonderful wedding photographer, Sharaya Mauck, had posted an engagement photo teaser!

And then I just had to check it out ASAP...

I absolutely love it.

She promised more to come on her blog this afternoon, so until I share those with you next Tuesday, here is a sneak peek (apologize for the quality, I stole it off FB)...



What do you think?
I am just DYING to see more!! Happy girl! :)

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Anyway... such a great way to lift my spirits on a crazy day, and I can't wait for some weekend activities...

making strides against breast cancer + enjoying my fun co-workers 
sporting my pink EVERYTHING + post-event snooze time
Twilight marathon + lots of Cozy Couture crocheting
date night w/ future hubs + sleeping in
de-stressing gym sessions + yoga
girls night with the cousins 
church + relaxing

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


What are you crazy kids up to this weekend? I hope you make it a lovely one! In case you're catching up on this weeks' posts...

+ the blogger must-do
+ going here for our exotic island honeymoon



See you next week for the Mingle Monday link-up party!










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PS - Don't miss this week's link-up!
Drop by the Mingle Monday Blog Hop and pick up some new blog followers!

___________________________________________________

October 25, 2012

Honeymoon: Hello Antigua!

In case you were wondering... yes, I am definitely counting down the days until we get to enjoy our little post-wedding vacay! **cough cough 136 cough cough**

When we first discussed honeymoon ideas, we easily came to agree on the fact that we both wanted it to feel very local instead of commercial, and much more laid back/secluded than a popular hopping spot.

Don't get me wrong, we looked at tons of well-established couple resorts and they looked like an absolute blast! But at the end of the day we just wanted to feel like the only ones around and enjoy the tranquility of relaxing together without a care in the world.

So after doing tons of research and consulting our lovely travel agent, we decided on staying at the Galley Bay Resort & Spa in Antigua.




It has been ranked one of the top most romantic honeymoon resorts in the Caribbean. The resort sits on 40 acres of private lush gardens, houses a tropical bird sanctuary, and boasts a mile long stretch of white sand beach.

The layout off the resort is what appealed most to us. It has a hidden design which offers a more secluded getaway. We opted to book our stay in one of the Tahitian-inspired Gauguin Cottages. The cottage has two thatched connected rondovals, and a private splash pool and sun deck for us to enjoy.

The spa area looks absolutely blissful! I think it would be so amazing to get a massage in one of their treehouses and then lay around by the pool!




We've read nothing but great things about this place! From their gourmet food and endless tropical drinks, the native island music in the evenings, to the gorgeous lush grounds that keep the resort feeling like a little tropical hideaway!

I was excited to find out they have lots of fun beach activities like snorkeling, kayaking, sail boating, and biking. Although I can see us lounging and reading in beach chairs, any of these would be a fun little afternoon activity.

And just in case we are feeling extra adventurous we can hop off the resort to try out a rainforest canopy zipline, a sunset cruise, island eco tour, shop or sightsee!

Is it March 10th yet?

We literally joke about eloping all the time just so we can get to Antigua faster. Can you tell we're super excited to be adventuring on our first big trip together?


Yup. Bring it on, marriage!






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PS - Don't miss this week's link-up!
Drop by the Mingle Monday Blog Hop and pick up some new blog followers!

___________________________________________________

October 24, 2012

Meet the Girls!

Boy, do I hve a treat for you guys!
For as long as I have been blogging, I have loved finding new little blog gems. I scour friend's blog rolls trying to find those diamonds in the rough, and I have found many of YOU that way! :)

Well today, I have four fantastic blogs for you to checkout!

These gals are absolutely fantastic, I follow each and every one of them, and I think you all are missing if you don't already. So here are some fo my friends - go say hello, and let them know where they can find you too!


{ Meet the Girls }


Katie @ AKontheGo


1) Introduce yourself and tell us what your blog about!
Hi, my name is Katie and I write over at aKonthego. My blog is about living your life to the fullest one day at a time. Through sharing about my own style, family, green living, food, cooking, fitness, emotions, relationships, travel, oh and of course my dog Watson, I hope to inspire you to encounter your own life. Feel it, taste it, touch it, live it! Each day is an opportunity to live!


2) What are your favorite things about fall?
My favorite thing about fall is when the temperature drops and the leaves begin to change. After living in other states without such drastic seasons I get really excited about the changes in Minnesota weather. Fall offers up a fresh start and plenty of opportunities to cozy up with my family. Fall is by far my favorite season. Hot cider, warm blankets, and crisp air. What could be better?


3) Why do you enjoy blogging?
I have always preferred to communicate through writing. I'm the girl who keeps a journal, writes notes and letters, and pours her heart out in greeting cards. I enjoy blogging because I feel like i have a lot to say about my crazy life and most of it could benefit someone else. I enjoy sharing my experiences and connecting with a big world from my home.


4) Describe your blog in 5 words!
Interesting, insightful, inspiring, reflective and open.


5) Why should people stop by?
I've been asking myself this same question recently. I think people should stop by for a refreshing viewpoint of the world. They should read for some inspiration and tips on living a full life. They should keep reading for great stories about a sometimes unconventional life. Most importantly they should stick around because big things are about to happen this winter and I'm excited to share it with them.




Rachel @ Simple Little Joys

1) Introduce yourself and tell us what your blog about!
My name is Rachel and I blog at {simple.little.joys}! I blog about anything and everything that life entails: weekend fun, DIY projects, fun recipes, my weight loss journey, and all the simple little joys in between!


2) What are your favorite things about fall?
My favorite things about fall…oh goodness, that's a hard one to narrow down. Well definitely all of the fabulous decor, first off! Pumpkin ANYTHING. All of the yummy fall goodies that we love to bake! The crisp in the air makes me happy! I love being able to wear jeans, boots, and a pretty scarf on a daily basis. Fall is my favorite!


3) Why do you enjoy blogging?
I love blogging because it really helps me document my life…helps me remember all of the little moments that happen while the big things are going on, too! The thing I love most about blogging is all of the amazing friendships I've created and the wonderful women that I "know" through this crazy blog world!


4) Describe your blog in 5 words!
Gracious, I don't know 5 words to describe my blog! Help me out here haha I'll have to think on that one!


5) Why should people stop by?
I'm just a 20-something girl, living life and enjoying the ride…I always keep it honest and real. I get a huge kick out of trying new recipes, baking up a storm, and crafting, so you're sure to find something fun! I love to have a good time and enjoy life to the fullest, so I'd love to have you stop by and stay awhile.



Nikki @ From a Miss to a Mrs.

1) Introduce yourself and tell us what your blog about!
From a Miss to a Mrs. I blog about planning and paying for a wedding, being a newlywed, cooking, home decor and dogs. Pretty much a hodgepodge of a twenty something newlywed.

2) What are your favorite things about fall?
I love boots and sweaters!! and fall scents (like apple spice or cinnamon coffee) and I love the fall flavors that come with coffee and holidays.


3) Why do you enjoy blogging?
I started my blog because our family is spread out, but now my family doesn't read it and my blogging friends do! I love blogging because I get to meet and reach out to new people from all over, and share my special life and the fun things I do with others :)


4) Describe your blog in 5 words!
Fun, energetic, honest, yummy, helpful


5) Why should people stop by?
If you're into dogs, books, cooking, sangria recipes and being in love, my blog is the place for you. I don't do fashion posts and I'm not a super crafty DIYer (although I do try) but I am an honest look into being a newlywed at 25 and all the joy and drama that goes with it.



Hannah @ Flamingos in Raincoats

1) Introduce yourself and tell us what your blog about!
Hannah, Flamingos in Raincoats, I'd call my blog a "lifestyle" blog, whatever that means! I love to blog about food, music, and my day to day life as a grad student and newlywed living in North Carolina.


2) What are your favorite things about fall?
Oh! I love everything about fall! i love the temperature drop, the pretty fall leaves, apple cider, pumpkins, and boots with tights!

3) Why do you enjoy blogging?
I enjoy blogging because it's a great creative outlet for me. I like the idea of keeping journals, but typing is so much easier than hand writing everything! Blogging is a great way for me to preserve moments of my life and it's a fantastic way to keep track of all of my recipes!

4) Describe your blog in 5 words!
Flamingos wearing raincoats... duh! ;)


5) Why should people stop by?
stop by for funny stuff, stuff to eat, stuff to make you roll your eyes, and stuff that i hope you'll enjoy reading!

 

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

So there you have it - aren't they fabulous?! Seriously, go stop by and say hi to the girls - you would be CRAZY not to!!

Want to find out how you can be included in next month's "Meet the Girls"? Click here for more information - I'd be happy to include you! :)


 More posts coming this week, so stay tuned...

+ bachelorette party recap / photos
+ daily inspiration
+ super yummy recipe!
+ friday confessional
+ more!!




___________________________________________________


PS - Don't miss this week's link-up!
Drop by the Mingle Monday Blog Hop and pick up some new blog followers!

___________________________________________________

October 22, 2012

Mingle Monday Blog Hop!

W elcome back to the work week!
This weekend was jam-packed, extra busy, and super fun... but this girl is exhausted today! It's one of our busiest weeks of the year at work, and I'm already looking forward to Saturday/Sunday!

Anyone else feeling like a busy bee today? Well, so glad you're here to mingle!

Want to get better exposure?
The more each of you passes the word along to your blog friends, the more people will stop by to visit you!

_________________________________________________

A Huge Thank You...

...in advance for spreading the word! Blog post, Twitter, smoke signals... you name it, I love it! The more this continues to grow, the greater your chances to gain some wonderful new followers and find great blogs!

{ Many thanks! }


LIFE OF MEG


_________________________________________________
 


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) Answer the weekly question in the comments section below...

** What are your favorite way to de-stress/relax? **

 
_________________________________________________





_________________________________________________
 

Go Visit My Lovely Sponsors!!

These gals are wonderful and have amazing must-follow blogs, trust me. They are daily must reads for me, so please drop by and say hello - you don't want to miss these gems!






_________________________________________________


BIG NEWS - All sponsorship prices have been lowered!

Starting at a mere $8 for a whole month of exposure, grab your sponsorship spot today!
With more than 30,000 original page hits a month, and 850+ hits per post, this is a great opportunity for you to gain traffic and followers!

Try it out here - you WON'T be disappointed!



I hope your week is off to a great start!













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

October 17, 2012

Believe

Some days are just hard, and today is one of them.
You know, those days where you are at the end of your rope, feel a little defeated, and it's just discouraging. Those days are tough.

Today, my work stress mixed with life stress feels a little crushing and hard to deal with. My shoulders are heavy from carrying these burden, and today it's exhausting.

Do you ever have those days?
The days where you feel overwhelmed, and yet you don't know which way to go for resolve?



Even though the rainy days creep in, I know they are necessary to make the good days feel even better. The rain reminds us that although today is crummy, the sunshine will feel much sweeter on our face once the dark clouds clear.



If you're having one of those days too, don't give up, friends. Believe in yourself.
You will make it through.



Sometimes life is hard, but we have to sling to beauty and promise that hope brings. Tomorrow will be better, all you have to do is put one foot in front of the other and keep moving. One step at a time.

In the meantime, there is nothing that girly movies, puppy dog kisses, and a bite of chocolate can't fix, right? Right.

And maybe listening to this song on repeat.







Here's to better days ahead...



Fall Frenzy Gift Reveal Link-Up

Happy Wednesday, y'all!
Today is the big day where all the Fall Frenzy Gift Swap participants link-up to reveal what their assigned blog buddy sent them!

A big thank you to all of you who signed up for this fun swap! I love hearing your feedback about how much you enjoyed it, and I will continue to do a swap every season!




So if you participated, link-up your Fall Frenzy reveal post so everyone can see your autumn-themed goodies! Make sure you go and say hello to all your swap buddies!






Feel free to leave your feedback about the swap in the post comments section - I'd love to hear from you!


Thanks again, lovely ladies!

 



October 15, 2012

Misikko Flat Iron Review

Calling all girly girls!
This post is just for you! The lovely folks over at Misikko gifted me a fabulous flat iron and asked me to write about my experience using their product!

Blogging perks are super fun! :)

I got the flat iron in the mail yesterday and the packaging alone was too fun! Inside was a silicon mat to lay the warm flat iron on when in use, a nice case for it, cute girly decor, and an assorted amount of Elf makeup! Thanks guys!



Of course I was super excited to test it out, but excuse the cell phone photos. The silly camera was malfunctioning! Here is a before picture of my hair. As you can see, my hair is naturally pretty straight after blow drying, but I do love the pin straight look, so I was excited!



Although my hair was a little too thin for the flat iron to clamp down on it as tight as I'm used to, it provided a glossy straight look I was craving!

The plates ran over my hair very smoothly adding shine and no frizz! It took mere minutes it through my hair and barely a second on each section! See?



When all was said and done, I gave the flat iron an A! I love the lightweight body, swivel cord, and smooth plates. The added shine was definitely a bonus and I got compliments all day. The only down side, like I said, was how thin my hair is and not being able to clamp it and pull down.

BUT, my sweet work friend just a had a baby a few months ago, has tons of baby expenses, and was in the market for a new flat iron... so I thought she needed this more than I do!

With a tight newborn budget, I thought she would love being passed along this amazing straightener to run through her thick jet black hair. Everyone at work complemented her the Monday after I gave it to her and she was thrilled! Now THAT makes my heart happy! :)


So there you have it!
Go stop by Misikko to browse their impressive product line and find a tool for you!







PS - Don't miss this week's link-up!
Drop by the Mingle Monday Blog Hop and pick up some new blog followers!
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