Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies

Ever since I posted a few photos on my Instagram, I've received tons of messages and e-mails asking when I will be posting my Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies recipe.

Well, today's your lucky day, my friends! Ever since I found this recipe from Six Sisters and tinkered with it a bit, I knew this would be a staple in my Christmas cookie repertoire. I took these little babies to a cookie exchange and they got rave reviews... can you imagine my excitement?

All the flavors of Christmas without the hard as a brick typical molasses cookie crunch. The edges are slightly toasted and the middles are so soft, chewy and melt right in your mouth. Give this recipe a try and I know you will be glad you did!

Ingredients:
2 1/4 cups flour
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1/4 tsp salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar

1 egg
1 Tbsp water
1/4 c molasses
3-4 Tbsp sugar (I like coarse decorative sugar like THIS)

Directions:
1)  Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Whisk the flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt together in a medium bowl and set aside.

2)  Using your stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and the sugars on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Now beat in the egg until just combined and slowly stir in the water and molasses until well blended on low speed. 

3)  Begin slowly adding the flour mixture to the other combined ingredients until the dough is blended together well.  Roll dough into golf ball sized balls and roll in the decorative sugar. Place dough balls on a cookie sheet lined with a Silpat (non-stick silicone baking sheet) about 2 inches apart.

4)  Bake for 8-10 minutes making sure you don't overbake. Cookies will not quite seem set but will continue to bake on the sheet after removed from the oven. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before removing to wire rack.

Bon Appetit!

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Cabin Shenanigans + 4th of July in Photos

I spent the whole weekend outside as much as possible, and I was in my element. We slept in, made homemade meals, did a lot of cheersing with adult beverages, and held the annual family olympics tradition (go Team Orange!) - which included a triple challenge in bocce ball, soccer, and kayak races.

 A little sunshine and exercise was exactly what I needed, and we had such a great time that I almost didn't come home.  Thankfully I am rounding up some girlfriends for a ladies cabin weekend in a few weeks, otherwise cabin fever might set in (Pun intended? Unintended? I clearly have decision making issues...).

So anyway, here's a sneak peek at all the fun and adventures.

The typical cabin get-up. My favorite hiking sandals, comfy shorts, sunscreen, and sunnies. Had to be ready for some leisurely kayaking, a pick-up soccer game, or to grab a super soaker (and run!) at the drop of a hat.

Of course we ventured into Arlington for a stop at the famous Carolyn's Essenhaus for made-from-scratch home cooking, and of course a slice of one of Carolyn's to-die-for pies.

Slightly blurry, but I couldn't resist posting this one of my sister-in-law, Meredith, with my fur nephew, Ollie, our favorite Russian babushka wearing pup. For the rest of the day we attempted to speak to Oliver in a Russian accent, and as it was pointed out to me... I apparently have no idea how to do that. :)

Everyday we helped plan and cook delicious meals, and nothing beats cooking and good company with friends/family.I absolutely loved the night where Meredith and Kyle made pizza dough and we all made our own pizza pies for the grill. 

Just a little sprinkle of cornmeal on the bottom of the plate and it slid right onto the grill with ease. My toppings of choice - pesto, mushrooms, caramelized onions, goat cheese, a sprinkle of parm and a little sausage... oh baby!

I also checked off "learn how to cook with rhubarb off of my summer bucket list. How on earth did I wait this long to experience this deliciousness? No one can go wrong with a little strawberry rhubarb pie action!

Unbeknownst to us, the Beast is a total water sports fanatic. Although I think she could've grabbed a paddle and helped out a bit. What a freeloader! ;)







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


Cabin weekend highlights...

+ catching up with my in-laws during the roadtrip
+ the weather was unreal
+ playing "Heads Up" and laughing so hard I almost peed my pants
+ taking my first ever tequila shot (ole!)
+ extended family party complete with fireworks and great company
+ sour cream raisin pie from the gods
+ spending time with my boo
+ late night conversations in our jammers
+ seeing 5 shooting stars while stargazing on the deck


How was your Freedom weekend?
//  What's your favorite place for a quiet getaway?  //

Follow along here:  BlogLovin, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest

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Wishes From My Family to Yours

As if you didn't already notice...
Life of Meg has taken a little holiday hiatus.

BUT, I do have some great things heading your way when I get back to blogging next week, so please don't give up on me just yet! ;)

I know November/December posts have been less frequent than usual, but I think I just needed a little break to refresh and regroup. That being said, I couldn't be more excited for renewed motivation and some great posts are heading your way soon!

(yes, our first Christmas together ever!) 

From my little family to yours...

We hope you had a very Merry Christmas and look forward to a lovely New Year!

Have a great weekend, you sassy things!

Cabin Getaway At A Glance

I've been meaning to share some photos from our extended 4th of July vacay down at the family cabin!

Good thing it's July 18th...

Haha! It's okay, I figured photos are fun to see anytime, right?
So enjoy one of our favorite spots in the whole world. We absolutely can't get enough...

Nothing beats a Kansas sunset driving through the flint hills.

Lots of snoozin'.

Beast has no concept of personal space - ha!

Where I sipped on coffee in the morning and did some lazy afternoon reading.

Tank tops and sunglasses were the dress code requirements... obvi.

Bella Beast was supervising the boys' kayak races. A wee bit chilly out there, so the sun felt good!

We sure know how to make it festive for the holiday.

Went to see Despicable Me 2 and wished I would've worn my sister's Halloween costume :)

Margs happened. And then I fould these little surprise photos waiting for me on my camera...

Cheers to blackmail! ;)

My MIL... the marg master!

And then after a stellar 4 days, we loaded up and said bye to our little piece of Kansas heaven.

(and yes, I realized I got zero photos of me or hubs... blogger fail.)

Yup, counting the days 'til we go back!

PS - Don't forget to link-up and gain new readers ALL WEEK at my Mingle Monday Link-Up!


...

Hello Americana!

Who's ready for fireworks, cut off shorts, and not working?!

Yeah... ME too!

I am beyond excited for 5 o'clock to roll around, so that we can grab our posse and get the heck out of this city! We're cabin bound and ready for a stellar long weekend celebrating freedom with friends and fam.

The cabin has been in Adam's family for decades and has many special memories... Adam proposed there at this time last year!

{via}

I am still in the process of trying to snag a last minute Americana inspired top by the time we leave, so I may need to swing by old navy to check out this striped tank, this star tee, or this fun top. I mean, I can't leave town without my USA gear, right?

Did you find any cute patriotic outfits?
Help a sister out.

Anyway, the next 4 days will be filled with sleeping in, lawn games, kayaking, morning walks, peaceful sunsets over the lake, watching the boys blow things up, adult beverages, yummy food, and of course... our annual Cabin Olympics.

Guaranteed fantastic (aka: ridiculous) photos coming your way next week!

What are your plans for the long holiday weekend?
Wishing you all a very safe and wonderful 4th of July!


Land of the free because of the brave!





PS - Don't forget to link-up and gain new readers ALL WEEK at my Mingle Monday Blog Hop link-up!


...

Best Weekend Ever {In Photos}

It sure is hard jumping right back into the work week after you've enjoyed days on end of relaxing.
About a month before Memorial Day, Adam and I made a pact. No set plans for this past weekend. We were just going to do what we felt like doing whenever we felt like doing it.

Best decision ever.

The weekend was full of new adventures, hilarious stories, quality time with each other and with some of our favorite people.

// Friday

All of us were shocked to find out that we were getting a surprise half day off work. Amazing. So I spent a solid afternoon deep cleaning our house and doing some chores so that I could be as lazy as I wanted all weekend.

Adam planned an amazing date for us at a local Midwest winery. We packed a picnic blanket and some playing cards and set off for a good time. For only $15 we had a huge catered dinner outside, a wine tasting, and listened to live music as the sun set over the vineyard.

Gorgeous night.

// Saturday

We slept in a bit and then were off on a mission to finalize our new granite counter top selection for our kitchen remodel. Unbeknownst to us (and our contractor) the granite showroom was closed. So we improvised and decided to run a few errands around town... and Adam came across this bumper sticker that he couldn't get enough of...

Our goal that afternoon was to relax, and relax we did! I made a tasty skinny chicken salad (recipe to come this week!) and we lounged around for a few glorious hours.

After receiving a Macy's Memorial Day sale e-mail I decided to swing buy and finally pick up the purse I have been eyeing for a steal of a deal. I may or may not have rescued a second one that was begging for a new home. What can I say? I love helping people (or purses) in need. ;)

That evening, we dined at Seasons 52 on the Plaza where we had the best dinner and live music. The musician was a comedian piano bar player and was cracking us up all night.We caught up with my bro-in-law and sis-in-law for drinks and giggles and may have had an impromptu sleepover...

// Sunday

After majorly sleeping in, we all went to brunch at one of our favorite KC staples and then took the pups to the doggie park. It was so fun to get some fresh air and wear those doggies out!

Later in the day, we came home and did some cooking/baking. I made Joy the Baker's delicious Brown Butter Toasted Coconut Chocolate Chip Cookies for Monday's cookout, and my chief quality control sampler definitely approved - haha!

That evening we ordered a quick pizza to nosh on while we tackled our latest culinary adventure... ice cream making! Our first recipe was quite the process but oh-so-good! This Bi-Rite Creamery recipe book brought me back to my days living in San Francisco.

And although unplanned, it was the perfect compliment to the incredible Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Pie my sister-in-law made for Monday's party! Major yum!

Later, we met up with my parentals to catch my cousin's soccer game and grab a post-game treat, before heading home for a movie nightcap. If you haven't seen The Promised Land with Matt Damon, you need to rent it! So good.

// Monday

It's hard to choose a favorite moment out of such a great long weekend, but I think Monday morning takes the cake. We woke up late to discover dark skies and thunderstorms let us snooze late. I put on my favorite oversized hoody and fuzzy slippers, which were perfect for making a leisurely waffle breakfast.

We sipped coffee all snuggled up on the couch and watched the rain pour out our back window. A perfect morning for crazy bedhead hair, my favorite tropical candle and silly movies.

The sun finally peeked through the clouds mid-afternoon, so we were excited to sit on the porch and sip sangria at my in-laws house. The whole evening was full of family and friends catching up, enjoying a tasty spread of delicacies, and giggling as we talked smack while playing board games.

 .:::.:::.::::.:::.:::.

My mind is clear and relaxed, my heart is happy and full of the people I enjoy most, and I'm even more in love with my hubs than I was on our wedding day. Is this real life?

Blessed beyond measure to have made such fantastic memories and gone on some ridiculous adventures these past few days!


How did you all spend your weekend?
What's your favorite highlight?

The Heart of Life is Good

{via}

"Pain throws your heart to the ground, Love turns the whole thing around.
Fear is a friend who's misunderstood, But I know the heart of life is good."

- John Mayer

Today was one of those days where I woke up and realized just how blessed I am.
My alarm was set for 7:10 (the usual), and for some reason I woke up at 6:10 a.m. on the dot. Wide awake. I couldn't figure out why I all of the sudden woke up... until I remembered that I had a meeting across town at 7:30 a.m.

Pretty sure my uber punctual guardian angel woke me up on that one.

I breezed through getting ready and Adam offered to do all of the things I usually do in the mornings (since I leave after him) with a smile on his face. Then an "I love you" and kiss goodbye. What a blessing.

The sun was coming up as my car was full of great soulful music that a new friend gifted me. My heart was full and I think joy and thankfulness washed over me. Despite seeing lots of pain and brokenness that friends/family are facing in different ways, I remember this truth of hope...

The heart of life is good.
God is good.

I went to grab a coffee and I thought about the fact that not everyone feels the way I do today. I had an overwhelming urge to spread the joy in any way I could, and picked up the tab of the lady behind me in the drive-thru.

I don't say this to brag about my intentions, I just hope that she was simply able to see a little joy and sunshine this morning. And I hope that when she too feels that, she can pass on the love to someone else who might need it.

Because heaven knows we could all use a little dose of sunshine every once in a while.
As I drove off, I let the words of the songs wash over me, smiled, and thought about so many things to be grateful for today and everyday. Good days and bad.

.:: Thankful ::.

+ my wonderful family who I love more than life itself
+ a puppy dog nose resting on the pillow next to me this morning
+ dear friends, new and old
+ belly laughing the night before
+ a selfless, kind husband who makes me feel beautiful at any size, makeup or no makeup
+ beautiful spring weather
+ the promise of new adventure in the air
+ a weekend to relax and restore
+ the precious gift of sacrificial love and life to celebrate this weekend


Today I am overwhelmed and humbled. Although life can get tough and painful at times, there is peace in knowing that there is always hope. Just keep going, because there are great things for you on the horizon, I just know it.

Maybe you need a little encouragement today?
Take heart my friends.


May you experience the true joy, hope, and love this Easter weekend...

Be My Valentine - Gift Swap!

It's that time again!
With Valentine's Day looming only a few weeks away, I thought we could kick off the love season with a sweet little gift swap!

After the past year of organizing seasonal swaps, and getting a great response, I would love to invite you to participate in this one. It's super fun and easy!

And who doesn't love fun nail polish, cute accessories, magazines, and more showing up in your mail?!

That's what I thought! ;)




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.:: About Be My Valentine ::.

Sign-up, get matched w/ a buddy, shop for a valentine care package, and swap via mail!

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


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 Faves

- Candy/Snacks:
Dark chocolate anything, Clif or Luna Bars, healthy snacks

- Magazines:
InStyle, Cooking Light, Glamour, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, US, People

- Colors:
YELLOW!, green, pink

- Hobbies:
Baking, cooking, working out, dancing, crocheting

- Girly things:
Nail polish, lip gloss, lip balm, home decor, face masks

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 valentine goodies {price max: $15-20} and send your buddy's valentine by February 6th.


Sign-up closes Tuesday, January 31st @ Noon (CST)!

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.:: Pretty Please ::.

Spread the word about the [Life of Meg] Be My Valentine Gift Swap! We want as many people as possible to join us in spreading the love! 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!



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So who's totally excited?!

I know I am! I already have a vision of the super cute valentine gift that I want to buy/send to the buddy I get matched up with! Valentine's Day isn't just for significant others... My prayer is that the Be My Valentine blog gift swap helps spread love to anyone and everyone!


Lots o' Love!

This is My Year!

Happy New Year, dear friends!
I know it may seem like I feel off the face of the planet over the last 2 weeks, but I've been busy enjoying my vacation! I wanted to focus on spending quality time with my friends and family, and truly being present.

However, those following me on Instagram {new!!} or Twitter may have seen the many shenanigans and adventures while I was on my blog sabbatical. :)

But, yes I missed you all terribly and have had quite the inkling to blog while I was off holiday gallivanting!

Welcome back, loves. Can't wait to catch up!

2013 is here, can you believe it?
Where did this past year go? I can't be the only one who feels like we didn't even have Halloween... right?

Well, I've never been more excited for a new year in all my life, and I have a feeling that 2013 has so much magic in store for me!

{pic}

This past year was absolutely incredible for so many reasons:

+ my dad was declared cancer free {praise the good Lord!}

+ sissy graduated from high school and began her KU adventure
+ Adam proposed at the end of June and we celebrated 3 years together

+ the many blessings of blogging

+ my parents announced they are moving to KC

+ my best friend and my SIL got married

+ we've laughed and celebrated life with our friends

+ cuddling my friends' chubby precious newborns

+ found a new church home

+ made plenty of amazing memories!

Looking back, I can see the joy and the blessings! And looking forward, I am so ready for the amazing adventures ahead...

+ I marry my best friend in 66 days. 66 days. (Come on March 9th!!)

+ nesting and making Adam's house feel so cozy/homey

+ no more goodnight farewells

+ entertaining friends and family at OUR home (woah...)

+ my parents moving to Kansas City

+ work adventures

+ fitness goals

+ getting involved in our church's children's ministry

+ volunteering

+ getting to meet my dear friend's baby in May

+ traveling to new places

+ new things for Life of Meg (hello face lift!)

...and so SO much more!

{ I have a feeling this is my year, and I plan to make it the best year yet! }

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

I have lots headed your way the next few weeks - tons of photos coming, wedding updates, recipes, inspiration... and more!!


How did the holidays treat you all?
Kindly I hope! :)

Snow Day + Annual Christmas Date

Greetings from my cozy couch!
Santa granted my wish of a beautiful white Christmas snow last night, so I am one happy girl. I am currently sitting by the window watching the snow fall, sipping on homemade hot cocoa while Bella Beast and I are all snuggled up.

It's highly doubtful that I will change out of my pajamas today, and I have a slew of movies to keep me entertained.

I absolutely love today.

             Source: twighutchinson.com via Tawni on Pinterest

.:: My Snow Day Agenda ::.

+ infinity scarf crochet project

+ hot green tea

+ bake this cinnamon coffee cake

+ wrap Christmas presents

+ the grinch (jim carey style)

+ finish packing
+ oh and ah over my new wedding shoes

+ napping, lots of napping

+ paint my nails

+ more hot cocoa

Even better? 

This evening, the future hubs and I are heading out for our annual Christmas date. Every year we dress up, pick a quaint/romantic restaurant, enjoy gourmet food and order dessert to share (a must!). 

This year we chose the lovely Cafe Europa in Brookside. It's hidden away in a cute little neighborhood and is quite little, only seating around 20 people in the whole restaurant.

The gorgeous stone fire place in the middle of the restaurant has unique old world charm, and makes the whole room glow. The food is spectacular, but did I mention their famous lemon cake is absolutely how we based our decision this year? Yum.

After dinner, we head over to the Country Club Plaza (I love living in Kansas City!) to see the gorgeous Christmas lights and do a little window browsing as we stroll hand in hand. 

It just feels so Christmasy and magical... the way Christmas should always feel.

At the end of the evening, we exchange presents, and then curl up on the couch with the pup to watch a favorite Christmas movie.

I can't wait 'til 6 p.m.!

Did any of you get a snow day today?
If so, make it a magical one!