Little Letters

Good morning, lovelies!
I hope your day is off to a nice, worry-free start. It's Tuesday, and yet I find myself holding my breath for the weekend already.

I have to say that life is so good right now. So many fun moments, overwhelming blessings and a lot to be thankful for.

My heart is happy, and happiness equals little love letters on this Tuesday morning...

Source: riflemade.squarespace.com via Mia on Pinterest

.: Dear Monday Night Family Dinner Gang :.

You are insanely fun. Even on the most relentless Monday work day, you add a little sparkle to my eyes. Thanks for the delicious food and silly game playing. But even more importantly, thank you for the friendships. You truly are my family and I love you.


.: Dear Coffee :.

You are my rock and morning salvation. I don't know what I would've done without you at 6 a.m. this morning. 3 cups later, you're my absolute hero.


.: Dear Parentals :.

This weekend was pretty fun hanging with you. I'm more than ready for your final move to Kansas City next week so we can hang out all the time. I see lots of breakfast dates while we watch the doggies wrestle each other. And although you have a tendency to explode Diet Coke cans in our fridge, I'm looking forward to our roomie reunion super soon.

.: Dear Wedding Dress :.

Although you make me antsy, I'm excited to wear you. I'm working on getting a little stronger first, but in the end, I have to be confident at any size. Adam is going to love you, and we are going to boogie the night away!


.: Dear Spa Date :.

I am so pumped to have Friday off to relax and unwind. Looking forward to and hour and a half of pampering. And that flavored water you have near the steam room always makes me feel like I've lost 5 lbs. Awesome.


.: Dear Bachelorette Weekend & Co. :.

I am so ready for you! Although everyone is so sneaky while sis has planned an awesome party, I am actually quite giddy to be surprised. Looking forward to sweats, ponytails, girl talk, sappy movies, wine pong, sassy gifts, and lots of snuggling.


.: Dear Bella Beast :.

You're adorable. I've know this since the first day I saw you 4 years ago, but lately you've been such a snuggle bug. I just love how you want to follow your mommy all over the house and really like to be right next to me. Your crazy puppy antics and floppy ears make my heart smile. Wubs ewe, Beastie Bear!


.: Dear Future Hubs :.

Thanks for granting mercy during last night's tickle war, so I wouldn't pee my pants. And in case you weren't sure, I still swoon over that cute little side grin of yours. I'm pretty pumped about our first round of pre-marital counseling tonight. Can you believe this is real?

53 days. 53 days until I get to promise you my forever. 53 days until your house becomes our home. 53 days until I'm Mrs. Adam Evans... and I'm counting the seconds.

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

Happy girl right here. Beyond blessed.


Do you all have some things you're grateful for today?













PS - Don't forget to check out the week-long Mingle Monday Blog Hop! Go get yourself some new followers, girlfriend!

Mingle Monday Blog Hop!

Well hey there friends!
A big welcome back to Mingle Monday for both recent visitors and long-time minglers! I am not sure if you know it, but every single link-up and comment completely brightens my whole day.

Thank you for being here, and thank you for being you.

It was such a stellar bridal shower weekend, and I can't wait to fill you in this week! I hope you all have lots of fun posts to share, because new followers will be heading your way soon!

_________________________________________________

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! }

_________________________________________________  
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 is the prettiest or most unique wedding you've been to and why? ** (yup, this soon-to-be bride has wedding fever!) _________________________________________________




_________________________________________________  

Here are some MUST visit blogs for you!

Katie @ aKonthego

Leslie @ A Body That Won't Break

Lara Ellen @ Living Like Lala

Joelle @ Something Charming

_________________________________________________

Want Even MORE traffic?

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 1,000+ hits per post, this is a great opportunity for you to gain traffic and followers!

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

Coming up this week...

+ LOTS of photos
+ bridal shower recap
+ our future home inspiration
+ life lately
+ bachelorette party outlook (come on weekend!)


**Personal blog shout outs/RT on Twitter all Monday to everyone who tweets about Mingle Monday! I'm always happy to send traffic your way!! :)

Hope you're kicking butts and taking names this Monday!

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

Bridal Shower Chic + Happy Weekend!

Looks like it's time to kick this weekend off right!
I woke up in such a good mood (duh, it's Friday!), and I'm ridiculously giddy! The reason? I'm heading to Wichita for the weekend, and I have my very first bridal shower tomorrow!!

My mom's dearest friends are way too cute setting up such an extravagant shower just for me! There will be so many cute, creative touches knowing them, and I just feel blessed beyond words that they want to do all of that for me? Can't wait to see everyone!

Questions... Is it weird that I'm a little nervous?

There will be around 50 ladies at this shower and I don't really know what to expect! :)

Source: austinweddingblog.com via Livia on Pinterest

Last night, my almost mother-in-law helped me find an outfit for the occasion. As always, I want to feel comfortable, pretty, be able to be worn for lots of things, and be flattering.

We ended up at LOFT and I found the world's best dress! It's sweatpants comfy, but looks chic and seriously SO slimming. If you don't have this dress, I recommend grabbing it ASAP. It didn't look like much on the hanger, but boy was it adorable on!

I found a cute turquoisey-blue necklace to add some color, plan to add some fun patterned tights, and pair with my favorite black suede wedges! What do you think?

1) Dress  2) Necklace  3) Shoes

So many other fun things to look forward to this weekend...

+ sissy snuggle time
+ saturday girls bestie night
+ playing dominoes with grandpa
+ sleeping in
+ coffee with the parentals
+ seeing lots of my favorite people
+ walking the pups
+ painting nails
+ just relaxing


...finally being reunited with the future hubs on Sunday after his week-long Seattle trip!!

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

I absolutely PROMISE to remember to take lots of photos this weekend! Feel free to keep up with me via Twitter and Instagram for the behind-the-scenes photos, but recap will happen next week!

PS - That amazing chocolate chip cookie recipe I promised? Coming your way at lunch!!


What are you crazy kids up to this weekend?
Make it a good one!!


 

Ode to the Rainy Day

Greetings from rainy and chilly Kansas City.
I woke up to raindrops tapping on my window this morning. My bed was warm, my room was dark, and a huge grin instantly crept across my face. This girl loves rainy days.

I know most people tend to think they're gloomy, but for some reason they're my favorite. I think they're magical and anything can happen.

So once I bribed myself to get out of bed and ready for work, I heated up two very delicious Healthy Egg, Ham & Smoked Gouda Souffle Muffins, grabbed some hot green tea, and headed out the door.

I have Norah Jones singing me sweet songs as I sip tea and get things done in my cozy little office...

...and I couldn't be happier if I tried.

Source: becauseitsawesome.blogspot.com via Daphyne on Pinterest

Adam is on a business adventure in Seattle this week, and before I left I was silently jealous that he gets to spend a week in the rain. So jealous, in fact, that I began searching for cheap plane tickets so I could go see him when he's up there over the next month.

Have you been to Washington? Was it magical?

In my head it is.

But then again, in my head a bunch of vampires live there too, so that doesn't really give me much credit. :)

Back to my love affair with rainy days...

I've made a list of all the things rainy days should include. In fact, I've been daydreaming about them all morning as I work on little projects.

.:: Here's the list ::.

+ bake muffins

+ snuggle with Bella Beast

+ watch all of my favorite Norah Ephron movies

(When Harry Met Sally, You've Got Mail, Sleepless in Seattle...)

+ get lost in a good book

+ take naps (yes... multiple)

+ pancakes, of course

+ start a raging fire in the fireplace

+ wear your coziest socks

+ dance around in your underoos to Frank Sinatra

+ began a new craft project

+ write letters

+ try a new recipe

+ completely lose all track of time perusing Pinterest

(story of my life.)

+ sip on a tasty latte

+ sweats and a pony are a must

+ throw all inhibitions to the wind

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

Are you enjoying the raindrops where you are?

What tops your rainy day list?

Whether rainy or not, Norah Jones is good for any soul... have a listen :)

Wishing you a cozy & happy Thursday, dear friends!

Healthy Egg, Ham & Smoked Gouda Muffins

Ever since I showed a little glimpse of these via Instagram on Saturday, I've had lots of requests for the recipe.
I have to say that I honestly was on a mission to make a warm breakfast out of fridge leftovers... and they turned out to be incredible!

Especially now that it's a new year and many of us have renewed our commitments to eating healthy, these are a delicious way to stick to your goal.

Packed with protein, these gooey, cheesy egg muffins won't cost you much in the calorie department... only 96 calories per muffin!

I made a dozen over the weekend, and ate them for a warm breakfast with some mixed berries for a filling, high-protein meal.

And the recipe would be easy to modify in case you were in the mood to add different meat/cheese!

{ Healthy Egg, Ham & Smoked Gouda Muffins }

{via}

Ingredients:

- 11 large eggs (feel free to use a dozen, your muffins may dome a little more)

- 4 smoke Gouda cheese deli slices

- 6 deli ham slices

- 1 tsp. oregano

- salt and pepper to taste

- olive oil cooking spray

Directions:

1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2) Spray muffin tin with cooking spray  

3) Crack all eggs and whisk in a medium sized bowl with a fork.

4) Slice the smoked Gouda and deli ham into very small squares (excluding Gouda rind).

5) Add cheese and meat squares and oregano to eggs and mix until distributed. Add salt and pepper to taste. Pour equally into each muffin cup (approx. 1/4 cup each).

6) Bake muffins for 25 minutes. Allow to cool down for 2-3 minutes... and enjoy! 

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

When I made these last weekend, Adam raved about them before I even got the chance to take the first bite. The Gouda is creamy and melty, and the spices are just perfect to add a little flavor.

Who knew you could pack such a punch in a 96 calorie protein muffin?


Bon Appetit!

Mingle Monday Blog Hop!

Welcpme to the first Mingle Monday of 2013!
It sure has been a long time since the last blog hop, and I'm excited to start the new year off right!

Currently blogging from my iPhone, so let's hope this doesn't bomb completely!! :)

You know what I'm thankful for today? You. So happy you show up to Mingle, blown away that you spread the word to our friends, and blessed that I've found so many awesome blogs through this weekly blog hop!

I hope you do too!

_________________________________________________

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! }

_________________________________________________  
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 is one of your 2013 goals? ** _________________________________________________




_________________________________________________  

Here are some MUST visit blogs/shops for you!

Katie @ aKonthego

Nikki @ From a Miss to a Mrs

Leslie @ A Body That Won't Break

_________________________________________________

Want Even MORE traffic?

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 1,000+ hits per post, this is a great opportunity for you to gain traffic and followers!

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

Coming up this week...

+ TWO recipes (including the chocolate chip cookie recipe I promised you!)
+ healthy living motivation
+ my nesting obsession (and home decor inspiration)
+ life lately (yay photos!)
+ much more!


**Personal shout outs/RT on Twitter all Monday to everyone who tweets about Mingle Monday! Happy to send traffic your way!! :)

Have a better-than-expected Monday, my sweet friends!

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

Let's Play Catch Up, Shall We?

Friday is finally here!
Man, I love these super short weeks, don't you? I'm slowly playing catch up after my little blog hiatus over the holidays. There is so stinking much to catch you up on, so this post will be an info overload of sorts.

I have my finger crossed that you're wearing your spontaneous pants today, because this post may or may not be chalked full of random blurbs! :)

I hope you've already had your coffee this morning...

Source: crushculdesac.tumblr.com via Meg on Pinterest

 

{ Quick Update }

 

.:: Newest Obsessions ::.

+ Instagram.

After Adam gifted me an iPhone for Christmas, I am now able to take quality photos and be engrossed in y'alls daily photos. This is too fun! Why on earth didn't I get on Instagram sooner? I'm so behind the curve.

+ Coffee Protein Shakes.

This little blonde definitely needs her fair share of caffeine in the morning to get going. Well, I've recently discovered the beauty of mixing my Tera's Whey Chocolate Protein with a splash of milk, handful of ice cubes, and a tablespoon of mocha coffee creamer. Heaven, I tell you. Pure coffee heaven.

+ Bachelorette Party Anticipation

My sister is the world's BEST MOH.

She may be 19, but that girl sure knows how to plan amazing shindigs! We're headed to Adam's family's cabin 2 weeks from today with 13 or my favorite people. I could not be more thrilled to have the surprises they've been planning revealed. Cannot. Wait.

+ New Heart Rate Monitor

I was given the HRM I had been lusting after over Christmas from my almost in-laws, and I am loving it!! You wear the HRM under your sports bra, and you wear the watch that calculates your exact calorie burn and heart rate.

It's amazing how wrong the machines at the gym are about calories (they said my burn was much higher, so now weight loss is much easier)! So glad I know my personalized exact number, and now push myself even harder!

.::: Wedding Update ::.

+ Invites Going Out Today!!

Over Christmas, my sister and two of my bridesmaids help me address every invitation (I owe them BIG time). I am in love with the way they turned out, and am so thankful my cousin is a funky graphic designer with modern off-the-wall taste like me! So SO excited to check that off the list! :)

+ My Dress Arrived

I tried on my dress after my wedding hair trial right before Christmas. Shockingly, the updo I went with (which was very pretty) didn't quite fit with my dress. Once I took my hair down, all was right in the world. My shoulders didn't feel so bare and I felt pretty.

I never in a million years thought my wedding do would be down, but it's just lovely with the dropped back of my dress. Can't wait to try out a new style!

+ We're Officially Registered

We checked off registering on our to do list over Christmas! We have a few things to add, but it feels so good to have that done. We both actually had a blast doing that together.

Adam may or may not have registered us for a little kids Big Wheel (see Instagram). Lordy, that boy is so sneaky!

+ Working on Little Projects

Now recruiting wedding helpers! I keed... I keed...

There are lots of fun crafty projects to do over this next month. Kids packs. Candy bag labeling. Framing signs. Finalizing other design items with my awesome cousin. I love projects!

.:: Misc. Items ::.

+ Roomies

I officially moved into my parents' new KC condo (yes, they're moving to Kansas City at the end of the month!) over Christmas. It's a great way to save money before the wedding and spend quality time with two of my absolute favorite people... Marlo and Juju (dad + mom).

+ Nesting

Adam's roomies, our amazing buddies, are all moving out of Adam's house by the end of February, which means we can begin painting/decorating! We could not be more excited to make his bachelor pad feel cozy and welcoming.

I've been scheming of home design inspiration via Pinterest, and we're both so excited. We're definitely on the same page and have the same taste in decor, so this will be fun and easy.

Not to mention, we've helped a million trillion dear friends paint in the last 3 years, so we have tons of project volunteers! I pay in donuts and beer in case you'd like to join our crew... ;)

+ Workout Junkie

Yup, it's finally hit me. This wedding is really going to happen in 65 days and I get to marry my very best friend in a gorgeous fitted gown. You'd better believe I am motivated to be the best me I can be! I can't wait to feel even more confident when I walk down the isle or am frolicking on the beaches of Antigua.

Join me on MyFitnessPal to be motivated together!

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

Welp, that about wraps up the life updates for the time being! I'm looking forward to a super mellow and relaxing weekend snuggled up with my dog and future hubs after a fun/busy 2 weeks!

Hang tight...

I have a killer Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe coming your way tomorrow! So good it'll make you wanna slap yo' mama...

Have a stellar weekend, you fabulous people!

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!

Wedding Shoes... Found!!

I know I've been super MIA lately...
but with moving, Christmas shopping, and so many festivities, my posts may show up here and there over the next week or so.

Today is my first day of vacation, and I have a nice little 2 week work vacay! YES!

So, I've been running lots of errands! My future mother-in-law gifted me the most beautiful blue sweater for my birthday, but unfortunately with recent weight loss I am in between sizes.

So I needed to run over to JCrew to exchange it for another beautiful item. Much to my surprise, when I arrived at the store everything was 30% off. So I decided to browse and see what I might love at such a great price.

...and there they were.

The gorgeous Lulu Glitter Flats that I had wanted as my wedding shoes (twice as cute and sparkly in person!). Unfortunately, with the hefty $138 price tag I couldn't bring myself to buy them... until today.

I exchanged my sweater, cashed in that 30% off sale, and paid a whopping $18 difference for the most stunning wedding flats.

Also, I would just like to say that the only size left in the entire store was a lovely 7.5... my size. It was destiny!

I can't wait to be both comfy and stylish in my pretty flats! They're comfy to dance the night away and will easily save my tootsies from a day of heel torture!

Ironically enough, I got a call yesterday that my wedding dress had come in. So, I can't wait to bring my new wedding shoes with me when I try on my dress on Saturday!


Thanks for letting me squeal with girly happiness over this lovely wedding victory! 
It's a good day!

Perfect Stocking Stuffer Giveaway

Happy Friday, y'all
Boy, do I have a treat for you today! I recently found out about the amazing custom love coupon books from Datevitation. Naturally, with Christmas coming up (and Valentine's Day coming up soon), I wanted to order one for Adam! Like I said, the perfect stocking stuffer!

He does such an amazing job taking good care of me, treating me to dinners, movies, etc., that I wanted to do something nice for him!

So I jumped on DateVitation, and ehe site was so easy to use! I got to scroll through tons of their date coupon ideas and choose the coupons I wanted to include in my book. Aren't they cute looking?!

Then you get to customize the wording! Some of my favorite include:

- A fun hiking excursion and lunch... my treat!
- A romantic dinner for two at home - I'll do the cooking!
- Movie night! Chick flick? Action Flick? YOU PICK!
- Cooking class for two!


The library contains over 200 date ideas ranging from skydiving to stargazing, and much more! They have over 60 book cover options to suit any occasion. It only took a few minutes from start to finish, and Adam's coupon book will be arriving soon! :)

Because I loved this so much, DateVitation will be giving away one custom coupon book to a lucky reader! Please use the rafflecopter to sign-up for the giveaway!

** It's an express giveaway, so you have until Saturday night at midnight (CST)! I'll e-mail the lucky winner Sunday morning! :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Books start at just $20 so it makes for a thoughtful yet checkbook friendly gift!. Feel free to use the code 'LIFEOFMEG’ for $5 off your purchase this month!


PS - Be sure to place orders by Dec. 16th for guaranteed Christmas delivery! :)

PPS - Click HERE to watch the YouTube video on how easy it is to create your own!



Happy Weekend, Friends!

Our Forever Song

Today marks 88 days until my forever starts.
How can it be that I get to walk down the aisle with my daddy and see the love of my life standing at the end of it. Just thinking of it gives me chills.

One of the many moments I'm most looking forward to is our first dance as husband and wife. Quiet. Just the two of us. Letting the moment and words sink in as he holds me in his arms. That's when our forever starts.

Chills.

Listening to "our song" tonight and it just fills me up.

We fell in love with Ben Rector's music together and have seen him in concert twice now. The very last time he sang "Forever Like That" - an unreleased song that is simply beautiful.

Every word or feeling that we have for each other is summed up in that sweet song... and we have our fingers crossed that he releases the album before March 9th! I think tweeting Ben everyday probably helps our chances, right?

I kid... I kid... 

(kind of.)

If not, we can borrow this live YouTube version that I may or may not listen to several times a week. It just makes your soul happy, you know?

"Forever Like That"
By: Ben Rector

And I'll be your rainy day lover.

Whenever the sunny days end.

And whatever the weather, we have each other. 

And that's how the story will end

I'll be your shade tree in summer mmm. 

If you'll be my fire when it's cold.

And whatever the season, well, we'll keep on breathing.

Cause we'll have each other to hold.

I'll hold - I'll sing...

Well, I wanna love you, forever I do.

And I wanna spend all of my days with you.

I'll carry your burdens and be the wind at your back.

I wanna spend my forever - forever like that.

And I'll be the words on the pages.

If you'll be my sweet melody.

And the tune can keep changing, cause I'll keep arranging.

And this is the song that we'll sing.

We'll sing...

I'm gonna love you, forever I do.

I'm gonna spend all of my days with you.

I'll carry your burdens and be the wind at your back.

I wanna spend my forever - forever like that.

When the rain comes, I'll be your shelter.

When the storms blow, we'll be together.

When the winds may fall, I'll be right by your side.

I'll sing...

I'm gonna love you, forever I do.

I'm gonna spend all my days with you.

I'll carry your burdens and be the wind at your back.

I'm gonna spend my forever - mmm, forever like that.


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

See, I told you it's amazing, didn't I? 
The words alone make me cry, but these are the good tears. The over-joyed, happy kind of tears.

And on very special occasions, Adam will dance with me in the kitchen and sing the words in my ear. Love those days.

...and he'll probably shake his head at me and give me that look for telling you. 

Probably going to be in trouble tomorrow...  :)


Is it March 9th yet?
*sigh*

Mingle Monday Blog Hop!!

Looks like it's that time again!
So happy you dropped by to spice up your Monday with some mingling. I look forward to it every week, and I hope it continues to be fun/helpful to all of you!

I had a fantastic weekend seeing my parents for a surprise visit, and hanging out with one of our favorite couples at the cabin!

Lots of fun posts coming up this week, so stay tuned, okay? A big thank you for all of the kind e-mails from those of you who tried a recipe from my Meg's Go-To Christmas Cookie Guide post and loved it! Keep 'em coming - I love hearing from you! :)

ALSO - Lots of you have been contacting me about ordering from my Cozy Couture Headwraps Etsy shop... well this is your chance!

If you would like to place an order as a holiday gift, I recommend doing so by Wednesday to ensure it arrives to you by the holidays! :)

_________________________________________________

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! }

_________________________________________________  
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...   ** Have you ever handmade holiday gifts? What did you do?! **   _________________________________________________




_________________________________________________  

Here are some MUST visit blogs/shops for you!

Rachel @ Simple Little Joys

Katie @ aKonthego

Nikki @ From a Miss to a Mrs

Sara @ Rockin' Oily Momma

Jen @ Life, Love & Puppy Paws 

Leslie @ A Body That Won't Break

Lindsay @ Sandy Toes & Salty Kisses

DateVitation - Custom Gift Coupon Books

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Coming up this week...

+ the cutest custom coupon books
+ dear Santa
+ handmade holiday gift ideas
+ life lately (yay photos!)
+ much more!

Have a warm and cozy Monday, my sweet friends!

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

Best Friend Weekend Here We Come!

Hellooooooo weekend!!
Fridays just have a way of making you feel like you're floating on cloud nine, doesn't it? Well I'm sure floating around here today thinking that in a few hours I will be on the road with my love to his family's cabin (yes, again)!

We love the heck out of that place!
Did you know that's where Adam proposed to me?

Excited to spend time with him and Beast in the car after work tonight!
Check out this adorable photo from last night btw...

Anyway, we are meeting my best friend Lo and her fiance Brian down there for a bestie weekend. They live in Oklahoma City and we wish they would hurry up and move here so we can be next door neighbors!

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Adam and Brian are ridiculous when they're together. All we hear them talking about is craft beer, European soccer, and silly boy movies. I am so thankful that our guys are such great friends, it makes life even more sweet!

Meanwhile, Lo and I like to giggle... and snuggle... and then giggle some more!
I met Lo at the end of my freshman year in college and we've been inseparable ever since. She knows me inside and out, better than most people do, and would drop anything in the world to be there for me.

I miss her constantly.

She is the friend I know I can always count on. The one that I talk to multiple times a week. The one that never forgets a birthday. The one who remembers what's going on with me during the week. The one where we pick right back up from where we left off.

She's so beautiful (inside and out), kind, selfless, honest, intelligent, and caring, and she makes me want to be a better person.

In Grey's Anatomy terms... "she's my person"
(...and she'd probably hate that I am referencing Grey's... haha).

It's so fun to see what all is happened and where life has taken us over the last 7ish years! Lo and Brian got engaged while on a trip to Germany to visit Brian's family last Christmas, and there wedding is a little over a month after ours. Being bestie brides at the same time has been so fun! Love her!

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Anyway, we're going to have a great weekend celebrating Brian's recent graduation and just being together! Bring on the weekend...


What are you up to this weekend, loves?

Meg's Go-To Christmas Cookie Guide

That's right sistas... who's ready to bake?!
Christmas is by far my favorite time of the year (ask Adam to tell you about my 365 day countdown!), and baking delicious treats for friends/family is one of my favorite holiday activities.

Over the last several years I've gotten together with my cousins for a bake fest! We select 5-6 different treats to bake, and then split them all up so we can deliver quite the assortment to our peeps!

I also have a Christmas Cookie Exchange at work each year, so these recipes are complete homeruns! Between the annual party and cousin cookie bake off, I've received tons of sweet compliments (pun intended) and "I need your recipe" begs to ensure these ones are keepers!

I've linked all of my favorite tried-and-true recipes, so knock yourselves out!

{ My Favorite Holiday Cookie Recipes }

 

1) Raspberry & Almond Shortbread Thumbprint Cookie

These cookies are a crowd pleaser... especially with my future father-in-law and Adam. Those two just can't get enough of these delicious buttery cookies with a touch of sweetness in the middle. Classic and tasty, you can't go wrong.

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2) Toasted Coconut Chocolate Chip Cookie

Yep, you read that right. Decadent chocolate chip cookies with the nutty flavor of lightly toasted coconut flakes. I make these cookies at least once a month by request. A perfect cookie to add variety to your cookie platter, office potluck, or a cozy night at home.

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3) Mrs. Sigg's Snickerdoodle Cookies

I found this recipe in high school and I've never ever looked for another one. I have the world's most ridiculous love affair with cinnamon, and this recipe is THE recipe if you are a cinnamon addict like myself.

These cookies have lightly browned crispy edges, crinkle a little bit when baked, with perfect soft and chewy centers. Try these!! I am drooling right now just thinking about them...

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4) Peanut Butter Cup Mini Cookies

This is a staple on my mom's Christmas baking agenda. For as long as I can remember, I've been the cup-presser-inner or the sprinkles engineer (got to make them look extra festive with holiday colored sugars!).

These are the first cookies gone at our Christmas Eve party, and heck... I can't believe they ever make it to the party at all!

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5) Mexican Wedding Cake Cookies

Our neighbor down the street always made these and gave them to us as a part of her annual Christmas tin of goodies when we were growing up. They are messy, buttery, sugary balls of pure goodness, and definitely a holiday must have!

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6) Buckeyes

These little melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter and chocolate candies are to die for. In fact every year that I've made these as a part of cousin baking time... I think we only end up with half a recipe.

I mean, we're all about quality control, so we would hate to give someone a less than desirable buckeye!

Taste testing to ensure great candy is a must. Sorry, but you have to. I know, I know... it's a terrible job, but somebody has to do it.

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7) Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

Nothing brings Christmas to life like a little taste of ginger and spices! I first tried this recipe last year and fell in love. The perfect recipe for delicious, chewy gingerbread cutouts. They are so much fun to decorate and are a sure fired way to brighten up your holiday cookie plate!

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8) The Illusive Chewy Sugar Cookie (My Easy Bar Version)

I wish I could say I've found my favorite recipe, but I have not. When it comes to sugar cookies, I prefer super chewy cookies and light fluffy frosting. When it comes to cutout sugar cookies, I have yet to find a recipe that allows for easy cookie cutting, but are soft/chewy.

Do you have one? Of so, pretty please send it my way!

However, I do love these sugar cookie bars! I think I may try making cutout cookies of these after they bake in fun holiday shapes. Then I can decorate them to bring to my office party or a cookie swap. Talk about fast and easy!

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So there you have it, folks! My top go-to holiday cookie recipes! I have made every single recipe and have been sticking to these ones over the years. You absolutely cannot go wrong.

Do you have a cookie favorite that didn't make the list? Leave me a comment with the recipe - I would love to try some new ones (as always)!

I'm also dying to try these new recipes ASAP:

+ Peppermint Patty Brownies

+ Carmelitas

+ Soft Almond Sugar Cookies

+ Homemade Marshmallows

+ Coconut Caramel Cookies

+ Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

+ Old Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts

What's your favorite holiday treat?

PS - Keep up with my on-going baking list on Pinterest right HERE!

PPS - Go visit my Meg Cooks page for more delicious cookies and recipes!