In Case You Need a Pick-Me-Up

My morning started off by being jolted awake when a staff member's phone call at 6:45 a.m.
And then I was woken up again at 7:30 a.m., which normally isn't a big deal, but you see... I wasn't supposed to go in to work until 11 since I worked late last night. My one peaceful morning to sleep in.

Upon walking into my room, I was greeted with a nice warm puddle of dog urine.
Lovely. Hence, I was unable to go back to sleep.

Not a fantastic start to the day.

And then I work with a lady that is just really, umm... let's go with challenging, to work with on a daily basis. I do my best to try and keep an optimistic attitude and not let her negativity get to me, but this morning's griping and surliness was exceptionally hard to grit my teeth through.

Thank the sweet Lion of Judah, my husband sent me this video to brighten my day, and that it did, folks. If you're day is off to a rocky start, this one's for you. Or if you simply need something to make you giggle, please press play... you can thank me later.

Wishing you a much better than expected kind of day.

After all, nobody should rob your happiness from you.

And in case for some insanely wild reason that didn't work for you, click HERE, and read the product reviews. I about peed my jammer pants last night reading them - ha!

Be blessed, friends...

I'm Alive + Life Lately in Photos

Did you think I completely forgot about you?

Who moi?

No way, Jose.

Life has just been a tiny bit busy as of late! Work has been absolutely nuts and I've been traveling a ton this week... phew. I thought I'd fill you in on what's made life awesome as of late...

//Laughing

Sister completely had me rolling when we walked into my parents house for a Cinco de Mayo bash on Sunday. Full blown sombrero and everything. And then we decided to have a little fun with Bella Beast. Muchas cervezas...

//Eating

So we live within a mile of a Dairy Queen... heaven help our waistlines.
Sunny spring weather just gives me dipped cone cravings, I can't help myself! Thankfully it's not too big of a hit to the calorie bank. Maybe we should actually try walking there sometime to pre-burn those calories... sheesh.

//Loving

Everything is in full bloom at the Evans household, and I've got green thumb fever! I especially love these happy irises that bloom around our mailbox. So pretty!

Looking forward to buying a hibiscus tree to put on our deck. I also can't wait to plant some pretty blooms in the adorable Crate and Barrel planters we got for a wedding gift. Our front porch will look so precious!

//Buying

I called my parents this morning on the way to the office from an early cancer board meeting. Those two cute kids were bee boppin' around Kansas City garage sale-ing and asked if they should keep their eyes out for anything for me. I told them that I would love more patio furniture for our deck...

Five minutes later they came across these adorable, colorful, 2-year-old Adirondack chairs (originally $140/each from World Market). I told them I wanted them if they were at a decent price... and for $40 for all, I walked away with a steal of a deal! Thanks Marlo and Juju!

I can't wait to turn our awesome backyard deck into a beautiful patio oasis. Garden lights. Fire pit. Pretty plants. Colorfull prints. S'mores. Brewskis. Yup, spring/summer is well on it's way to being awesome.

//Listening

Cannot get enough Of Monsters and Men or Alpha Rev. We have this song on repeat at su casa...

//Celebrating

I can't believe it's been two months from our wedding today. Best 60 days ever.

Life is crazy. And beautiful.
It's all about the simple things, my friends.

There is so much joy to be experienced, you just have to be looking in the right places...

xo

Have a BARKtacular Weekend!

Yup, today is Bring Your Dog to Work Day at my office! Bella Beast and I have been having a blast so far! We've had a best trick talent show, and reward for best sit and best dressed! Ha!

I even left my office for a few minutes and came back to this...




{Maybe Beast will return my emails for me?! }

Anyway, I couldn't be more excited that it's Friday, and I've been looking forward to a mellow weekend for quite some time. On this weekend's agenda?


friend's birthday bash + out on the town + some of our favorite friends
sleeping in + spring cleaning (part 2) + nice long workout
sporting kc soccer game + budweiser VIP section
mellow sunday + movies + dog park
date night + relaxing evening


What's on your schedule this weekend, friends?

Love What You Do

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!

Fall Frenzy - Blog Gift Swap!

Get ready for some fun, my fall loving friends!
After hosting the Mitten Mixer mitten swap in December, the Be My Valentine gift swap in February, I figured it was time for us to have a little fall fun to get us in the autumn spirit!


Who wants to join me for the Fall Frenzy blog gift swap?

{ I knew you would be excited!! }




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.:: Fall Frenzy::.

Sign-up, get matched w/ a buddy, shop for your favorite fall must-haves, and swap via mail!


1) Interested? Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to be elligible.


2) Leave a comment below that includes your first name and e-mail address.


3) Also in your comment leave at least 5-10 "favorites" of yours.

______________________________


Example: Meg's Fall Faves

- Candy/Snacks:
Dark chocolate anything, coffee, caramels, toffee, candy corn

- Colors:
Brown, orange, coral, navy, yellow

- Accessories:
Scarves, fedoras, baseball hats, cute socks, "pearl" or "diamond" stud earrings, stackable bangles, rings, dangly earings, simple necklaces, chunky statement jewelry

- Home Decor:
Votives, fake acorns, leaves, vanilla or pumpkin scented candles, pumpkins, classy fall decor, small square frames

- Fun faves:
Oklahoma State anything, cute cupcake liners, starbucks giftcards, holiday dish towels, thank you cards, stationary, magazines - People, US, Martha Stewart, Real Simple

- Girly things:
Nail polish (fall colors!), soft pink or peach lip gloss, brown palette eye shadow, lip balm, face masks, bubble bath, cute bobby pins

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4) I will send your buddy's e-mail address to you via your provided e-mail address. You then can exchange mailing address information once you're in contact.


5) Shop for your fall goodies {price max: $20} and send your buddy's gift by September 16th.


Sign-up closes on Tuesday, September 13th @ Noon (CST)!

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.:: Pretty Please ::.

Spread the word about the [Life of Meg] Fall Frenzy blog gift swap! We want as many people as possible to join us in spreading the fun! The picture above or the button below is for your use in a post or on your sidebar. Please add a link directly to this blog post so that your friends can easily join us in the fun!




<center><a href="http://megnificentlife.blogspot.com/2011/09/fall-frenzy-blog-gift-swap.html"><img src="http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/LifeofMeg/leaves_small2.jpg"/></a></center>
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So, who's totally excited?!

I know I am! I already have a vision of the adorable/fun/girly fall must-haves that I want to buy/send to the buddy I get matched up with!

I hope you will help me spread the fall cheer! It's my absolute favorite season to bake in, watch football, be outside, and enjoy - let's kick it off right!


Happy September!!

Thankful

Today I am reminded of how much I have.
I'm not talking about material possessions... I'm talking about how much i have to be thankful for. There are so many days I take for granted the comfort of my bed, the nurishment of my food, the comfort of health, the love of my family, and the laughs of my friends. Today, I am choosing to be thankful.




{ So Blessed... }

+ job security
+ food in my cabinets
+ a car to get me to and from work
+ a snuggly puppy
+ selfless BF
+ unconditionally loving family
+ a cancer- free dad
+ a cancer surviving mom
+ 2 of the best siblings in the world


...I have a lot to be thankful for!


What blessings do you take for granted, but make you smile today?





PS- Stay tuned! My recipe for spinach and cheese stuffed shells with meat sauce is coming this afternoon! :)

Life is Good

Today I choose to be happy.
There are too many things to smile about and be thankful for, than to let the little things get the best of me. I can't get this big grin off my face and I love this feeling... life is so sweet!




.:: Smile Worthy ::.
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1) Hello Spring Weather!

Today is absolutely gorgeous. This weather reminds me of when I lived on my own in lovely San Francisco back in the day. My sweet home away from home. Missing the sea lions barking on the pier, the Mission, beautiful people who taught me how to truly love life, and all the many lessons I learned during those 4 amazing months.


2) Many Blessings

So very thankful for all the beautiful souls in my life. I feel very blessed to have the world's best parents, have my brother moving to KC next month, and a sassy sister to keep me young and hip! ;)

I'm very grateful to have friends who make me laugh 'til my sides ache and share life with. And couldn't be more thankful for my sweet Adam, who shares my laughter and dries my tears. I couldn't possibly have asked for a more respectable and amazing man to love!


3) A Job That I Love

I am constantly reminded about the difference I am able to make in the lives of cancer patients and their families. Even on the most difficult days, they remind me to live fully and love whole heartedly.

I love that I am challenged by my relationship building and business partnership with the healthcare systems I take care of - I'm learning such valuable things! I also have the world's nicest and best co-workers/friends ever! I feel very humbled and lucky to look forward to work.


4) Spontaneous Fun

BF and I got invited to go see the hit musical, Rock of Ages, with our couple friends as the tour hits KC tonight! I had mentioned several weeks ago that I wish we would've bought tickets, but now they are offered to us for free (thanks Erin love!). I cannot even begin to express how excited I am for our little double date tonight! Eeee!!


5) My Bloggy Buddies

I seriously adore you guys. From encouraging comments to recommending the perfect mascara (my lashes now look great BTW - thanks to Maybelline Lash Stilleto and YOU!).

Thanks for making me love this creative outlet even more than I already do! I hope to get to know you newbies too! xo

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Need a reason to smile? This song is amazing and makes me want to celebrate the good little things in my life. I promise you will love it too...





Smooches!!

Puppies, Picnics and Happiness

See that cute furry puppy?
Yup that one! I'm convinced she is the cutest most lovable little monster in all the world. My alarm went off at 7 a.m. and after about 5 snoozes, I rolled over to find myself nose to nose with a little furry body.

Bella Beast was all snuggled up under the covers and her head was resting on the pillow next to me...




{ Not a bad way to start my day! Too Cute! }

Welp, my friends, we're one day away from weekend freedom and I couldn't be more ready! Besides being greeted by an adorable fur ball on the pillow next to me, I woke up with lots of random thoughts and excitement...

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.:: I'm Looking Forward To ::.


+ my afternoon workout
+ enjoying my cleaned up apartment
+ sending Valentine's cards
+ this weekend's amazing lovey plans
+ warmer weather on the horizon!
+ date night tonight w/ my handsome devil of a BF
{ indoor picnic complete with games and yummy s'mores! }






.:: Listening To ::.


+ Missy Higgins
+ Adele
+ Norah Jones
+ A Fine Frenzy
+ "Wonderwall" cover
by Straight No Chaser... Mmm!






.:: I'm Loving ::.


+ my Bible Study girls
+ my commitment to Weight Watchers
+ American Idol auditions - hahahaha!
+ how working out makes me feel STRONG!
+ my Valentine's date outfit and chosen pretty updo
+ Martha Stewart's Valentine's Day
craft ideas, menu plans, and yummy treats!





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What makes you smile today, my friends?


Hugs!

Let the Magic Begin!

Why Good Mornin'!!
I woke up so unbelievably happy this morning. Why you ask? Well my alarm went off and I reached my hand out of my super cozy bed, grabbed my phone, and found a message from my super sweet co-worker friend that read:


"No work... SNOW DAY!! :)"




Instant smile.

So naturally I sent a text to BF, Mom and Dad, and all my fave friends. This girl has a snow day and I am ready to do something FUN to celebrate! WOOP WOOP!

With a predicted 15-20 inches of snow, I might be here awhile! I thought I would share my snow day plans with you via these fabulous photos.










.:: Right now I am... ::.

+ in my PJs
+ snuggling with Bella Beast
+ getting ready to watch The Bachelor (Go DVR!)



.:: I am looking forward to... ::.

+ trekking to BF's house
+ making cinnamon rolls for him and his roomies
+ hanging with my friends all day
+ watching movies



.:: Today I want to... ::.

+ start my new crochet project
(did you see those headwraps up there? ;) yay!)
+ drink yummy hot chocolate
+ play in the snow
+ relax
+ enjoy my magical snow day


I am even so excited right now I can't go back to sleep, which make my little puppy monster happy! Just snuggling together in my bed!


{ Did anyone else get a snow day?! }


Have a Magical Day!





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PS- Looking for new followers or fun new blogs? Don't forget that the Mingle Monday blog hop is open until Wednesday at midnight.
Stop by and get your blog some exposure!
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Wishes & A Sprinkle of Inspiration

Over the last few weeks I have been collecting a whole slew of photos that I absolutely adore. Things I wish for my life, things that warm my heart and make my face smile, things that give me butterflies, and things that inspire me to be the best version of me this next year...



May these warm your heart like they do mine...

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

After thinking about what my 2011 new year's resolution(s) should be, I've decided not to focus on the typical resolutions: get healthy, save money etc. Weeks of thinking have gone by, and I believe I have finally found just one.


{ Be Genuine. }


Trust me, I thought about this for a good long time. What I've realized is that it's the most important thing in the world to me... be genuine.


Love with all my heart.
Be inspired.
Care deeply for people.
Don't let a day go by without working hard.
Write what I care about.
Go out of my way to help people in need.
Speak peace and truth.
Follow my dreams.
Learn how to be courageous in uncertainty.
Cry when I need to.
Belly laugh.
Learn that it's okay to be vulnerable.
Ask for help.
Do what makes me happy.
Cherish every single beautiful moment of this crazy life.
Trust in the power of prayer.
Discover exactly who I am.
Celebrate life.

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



...what inspires you for the new year?


Genuinely wishing you a beautiful 2011...