Baby, it's cold outside

This is what we woke up to yesterday morning! It snowed for hours!!  Here is our home (which is still for sale...interested anyone??)  in the snow! I didn't have to go to work, so I stayed in my PJs and cooked soup and wrapped presents all day while watching Christmas movies.  Such is the life. 

This is how Sophie fell asleep the other night.  Cutest thing ever.

You can tell she is ticked that I woke her up in the above picture. 

Naturally, I put her santa hat on her for a few more photos.  

Christmas card next year? I think so.  I have about 15 more.  She didn't move the whole time.  Sleepy girl. 

Message board, I hate you.

I hate message boards. 

Why do I read them, I ask?  The only people who take the time to respond are those with bad attitudes, and from the looks of things, bad grammar. 

I read all my newspaper readings online (the green way of doing things. Long live earth) and I am always intrigued by the comments on the articles.  What could possibly be so interesting about a new light going up to generate 48 comments?  Reels me in every time. 

If you know me, you know the happenings down here that resulted in my dear hubby's job to be in the paper.  I would read those ignorant comments in response to it and just want to log in and tell them all to be quiet and go find Jesus. But I decided that would mean I would have to be on their level, so I withheld from that temptation.  I should have learned my lesson about message boards then, but I tell you, old habits die hard. 

So now I am trying to find some legit sources for this "Petersen to MSU" rumor.  Naturally I turned to the most legit source of all: I googled it. 

Stupid message boards.  That's all I got.  And after one read, I was hooked.  My blood is boiling.

Do you know me?  If so, you might know that I am a bit proud of my state and my bulldogs.  Trey can confirm that I have been known to cry at more than one Mississippi State loss.  It is not that I am a sore loser, I just hate how little respect I get down here for being a fan.  And by down here, I mean I left Starkville for the first time in my life.  No one told me other places were not 100% bulldog.  To add to this,  I once told a man in Natchez that my life priorities were simple: Jesus, family, Mississippi State. But that is another story for another day. And one that Trey would rather not relive. 

The point is simple: I can not stand to have these ludicrous comments being made about my beloved state and school.  

Especially when the person commenting has a screen name like "Ilikemyfootballroughlikeilikemygirls"

I am done with that. 

Readers, please.  Let's join forces and refuse to read these electronic slam books.  

I feel better now that I have told someone about this.  

Thanks for listening. 

Happy Thanksgiving (a little late) and bye-bye sweet Croom

First of all...HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

I hope you all have a wonderful holiday. Trey and I have had a great one so far - and we are still going! We went to the coast to visit his family on Wed. night and stayed until Friday morning and then drove across the state to Starkville (God's country) to be with mine until tomorrow. It has all been wonderful. I have so many things to be thankful for - we truly feel so blessed. One of my greatest blessings is my family, my old and new family, so I am so thrilled to be here with them!



On a different note, I am so sad about Coach Croom. I know everyone has their opinion and I know everyone likes to win, but I love that man. He took a team that was in trouble and brought character back into the program. He has acomplished alot, including being named SEC Coach of the year last year.



Granted, we decided to not show up to the Egg Bowl, (I DON'T WANT TO TALK ABOUT IT), but I am still upset about his resignation. I wish him the best for sure.

Read about it here.



So long, Croom. You will be missed.



Ok, got to go play with Henry! Who, by the way, will be 2 on Monday and can say the ENTIRE ABCs, count to 10 and say things like "Heather, I have to sit here and concentrate."

True story. I love him.

tag!

I was tagged by the middle sister. I am supposed to list 6 things interesting about me and then tag 6 others to do the same. 

So here you go:

1. I can't stand when things are spelled wrong on purpose. Example: Kountry Kitchen, KREATIVE BLOGGER! (it hurt me to put that up there, but I love my sis and I love lists.) 

This is ironic because I can not spell worth a flip without spell check. But I ask, WHY spell incorrectly on purpose? 

2.  Sometimes I like coffee and sometimes I don't.  I can't explain it.  Some days all I want is a good cup of Joe.  Others, if I think about it or smell it, I feel sick at my stomach.  

3. I refuse to go to the tanning bed and I wear sunscreen everyday.  Yes, even when I spend all day in my office. I used to not be this way.  I regret that now.  Do I like being very pale? Heck no.  But I refuse to ruin my skin to try to look "good".  I recently got tan sprayed by a girl.  Not a machine. a person. It was worth it.  But I can't afford the upkeep.  $30 for a 3 day tan? Craziness.  I will just embrace my whiteness. 

4.  I could spend all day with old people.  The older the better, I say.  

5. I slept with the same baby doll for years.  Her name is Baby.  I had her when I was a baby.  Baby has been everywhere with me: through surgeries, vacations, sleepovers, college.  Yes, college.  Trey refused to sleep with me and Baby after our marriage, so I retired Baby to the

 drawer in my bedside table.  I sleep with her when he is out of town.  She is in rough condition, having been through various "surgeries" herself.  I still love her.  I wish i had a picture of Baby. I would share it. 

6. My dog wears pajamas. Proof:

weekend in Natchez

Last weekend a group of girls and I went to Natchez for one of our friend's wedding. We had the best time. Truth be told: I have never had a bad time in Natchez - right, Nan? Anyway, we all piled in my car and headed out Saturday morning. The wedding was gorgeous. Audrey got married outside on the porch of a mansion. Breathtaking. She both entered and left the ceremony in a white horse-drawn carriage. Very fairy-tale-esque. I loved it.

I also loved the dancing and the reception, but that is neither here nor there.

Here are a few pictures from the weekend.

The girls. We have girl's night. Like Sex and The City and Desperate Housewife watching:

Audrey, the bride, of course:

Audrey made the mistake of telling us that she and her new hubby were staying in the mansion where they wed. This, obviously, was also the place of the reception.

Audrey, now is the time to tell you that Jennifer and I took it upon ourselves to take pictures in your honeymoon room.

You gave us permission to look, which resulted in the taking of this picture:

And a few more reception and post-reception photo ops.

Fran, Erin, Me and Jennifer:

there was an accident:

Emily and Emily and me.

This was taken right after they admitted to blog stalking me. If that is not a kodak moment, what is?

Me, Erin, Fran, Jami and Jennifer at Fat Mama's.

CONTINUING ON TO SUNDAY:

We leave The Eola on Sunday morning and head out to grab some lunch before our trip back to the 'burg. Magnolia Grille. Yummy.

Did I mention I was the driver? Maybe now would be a good time to point out that fact.

Anyway, I parked the car and the five of us headed in for some good food.

AN HOUR AND A HALF LATER -

we walk back to my car when Erin looks at me and asked what that strange noise was.

It was my car. And it was running. The engine was on. For an hour and a half. Just sitting there. Waiting. Wasting.

Awesome.

AN HOUR AND A HALF LATER -

We are cruising on minding our own business when I look back and see a cop. With the lights on. Chasing me.

I pull over and await my sentence. I honestly didn't think he would give me a ticket. I have never even been pulled over. Cut a girl a break, man. No such luck. Without so much as a smile, he handed me my due. Crap. I didn't argue: I was going over the speed limit. But on my behalf, I thought the speed limit was 70. I later learned it was not...

After the cop handed me the dreaded yellow slip, he headed back to his un-marked car, no less. We were free to go. Careful not to speed, I slowly merged back onto the highway. What I didn't take into account was the gravel I was parked on.

I spun out.

Yep. Rocks were flying at the cop.

Good job, captain idiot.

Anyway, we laughed the rest of the way home, as I was driving 5 under the limit.

I don't want to talk about it.

I don't want to talk about the fact that I got my first speeding ticket by a sneaky unmarked car. 

I don't want to talk about the fact that my bathtub is in my front yard.  Seriously. Don't ask. I said I didn't want to talk about it. 

Or the fact that I showered on campus today before work and the water pressure was awful, thus resulting in a really bad 'do. 

OR the fact that the men in the bathroom messed up my toothbrush so I went to the Corner Market to get another one AND THEY ARE OUT. Of toothbrushes? Why? They said they are getting a shipment on Thursday.  AWESOME. I will wait until then to brush my teeth.  

BUT I do want to talk about my fun weekend in Natchez - so get ready for fun pictures.  Hopefully downloading tonight.  Get ready. It was fun.  

Happy Fall, Ya'll!

Henry's Halloween and fall pictures! 

So precious...

life, and such.

Recently I have thought about just quitting everything and blogging for a living instead. It is way more fun and lots less stressful. I can't believe trey won't let me. I am not so sure it will bring home the bacon, but i sure do miss my blogging.

but i am here, for the time being, at least.

I have so many pictures and stories to share. some pictures, of course, will have to wait, as I do not have them on the computer. But here is a list (numbered, naturally) of happenings in my life as of late.

1) Our house is STILL for sale. Really, people? we are pushing six months. I always, since I was little, compared time to 9 months. Maybe that is because of pregnancy? I don't know. I do know this is strange, but I do it just the same. Anyway, our house has almost been for sale as long as it takes to grow a baby. This is so unexpected. I blame the market fo' sho'. I mean, I even put it on marketplace on facebook. Yes, I listed my home on facebook. I have gotten several messages about it via the book and have shown it twice because of the listing there. My favorite message from the facebook listing: "How much be yur house for a month?" Umm....I don't think this is going to work out, sir. Not renting, selling. Depends on loans, down payment, etc... He didn't respond. I am assuming Facebook doesn't require an IQ test. I am not giving up on the sale, though. I am just learning patience.

2) Sophie is a mermaid for Halloween. She hates it.

3) Trey, my mom, my daddy and I went on a vacation last week. It was a taste of Heaven on earth, I tell ya. We went to Highlands, NC. It was gorgeous. The leaves were peeking and just breathtaking. We relaxed, ate way too much good food, hiked, and read by the fire. Did I mention that I wish I was still there? Well, I do. One day we drove to Ashville and spent the whole day at the Biltmore house and winery. I love it. I am pretty sure there are ghost of George Vanderbilt's servants living there. Trey doesn't agree.

Anyway, good times with the parents. Much needed and much enjoyed. Fun times. Here are a few pictures from my mom's camera. I have a whole album of pics, but alas, not on the computer:

Me and Trey on top of Sunset Rock after a hike.

Some views in the neighborhood and hikes:

Me and Trey before dinner standing in front of my house that won't sell. (Sike)

My cute mom and daddy in front of the Biltmore.

I WANT TO GO BACK!!! Mama? Please?

4) Kristen is still living with me and Trey. After about 4 months of living with us during the weekdays, I gotta say, I will miss her when her surgery rotation is up in 2 weeks. Laura, you moving in for the next 5 months? I don't know what Trey is going to do when he is back down to living with only one Tomlinson girl.

5) Henry, who will be 2 Dec. 1, is officially my love. I love him. When he leaves school each day, he says clear as day "Bye bye, friends. Have a good day!" Trey is convinced he could knock out a 22 on the ACT tomorrow, if given the chance. I will have to say I agree. And, no, I am not biased. cute kid.

I guess that covers it for now. Now you are a bit more in touch with my life, as I am sure you all have been dying to hear about.

hello blog, it's me, heather

I feel like I have abandoned all of you.  This is not intentional, blog friend.  Life is busy.  I know your life is busy, too, so I won't get into it. 

I have great pictures of Sophie and Sam.  Sam, you ask? note: the cat in previous post.  He is practically a Skaggs by now.  We (I) named him Sam, obviously.  Just because we (I) thought "Sophie and Sam" sounded good together. Like when you say "Come here Sophie and Sam!"  I know his real name, but I refuse to call him that.  It is "Toddy", yeah, like Hotty Toddy.  The owners are Ole Miss grads.  That just won't do. I openly call him Sam and they are ok with it. 

Point is, when I have spare time, I will download and share the photos.  They are BFF for life. 

I am quiet fond of little Sam, the kitty. 

There is plenty more going on in my life besides Sophie and Sam that I am sure you are all just on pins and needles to hear about, but time is limited.  So, to satisfy your everlasting thirst of wanting to know more about me, here is a quick quiz I stole for the sis. 

A. attached or single?  attached- Married to Trey

B. best friend? i have many.  honestly, though, trey, my mom and dad, and my sisters.  I can't go a day without talking to all of them at least once. I have been blessed with many friends throughout my entire life, though, that are not family! Too many to name. 

C. Cake or pie? depends.  strawberry cake and cream cheese icing and key lime pie! I can't choose. 

D. Day of choice? Friday - the anticipation of the weekend. 

E. Essential item? cell phone

F. Favorite color? red

G. Gummy bears or worms? bears

H. Hometown? Starkville.  I love it there. 

I. Favorite indulgence? Mexican food and new shoes. and eating mexican food while wearing new shoes. 

J. january or July? January for sure.  I love the smell and look of clean calendars.  No really.  I love it. 

K. Kids? Do I have them? no.  Do I love them? yes. 

L. Life isn't complete without my? family

M. Marriage date? June 3, 2006

N. Number of brothers and sisters? 2 big sisters, 2 brother-in-laws - one older and one younger. All fabulous.

O. Oranges or apples.  Apples. I love oranges, but hate the white strings in them. 

P. Phobias? roaches. hurts me just to type that. 

Q. Quotes? not sure.  that is not my quote, that is my answer. 

R. Reason to smile? THE WEEKEND IS HERE. very rough week, no doubt. 

S. Season of choice? Oh I love the fall.  

T. Tag 5 people. That is annoying. 

U. Unknown fact about me? I lead 7th grade girls small group at church.  They are hilarious. 

V. Vegetable? I love them all. 

W. Worst habit? I stress out sometimes.  And when I start stressing, I can't stop. This week was one of those weeks, if you want to know.  But I am ok now.  The weekend is here!

X. X-ray or ultrasound? Like which do I prefer? I don't get this one.  I have never had an ultrasound. I have had x-rays.  I once had a nail in my head. 

Y. favorite foods? I love food. Mexican and Japanese is my favorite though. And ice cream. And cereal. 

Z. Zodiac sign? Taurus. 

Happy weekend!  We are off to the coast to visit Trey's parents tonight then going to an engagement party tomorrow night.  So fun!

Sophie's new best friend.

I am not a cat person. Never have been. I think they are a bit quirky and not very sociable. Please, cat lovers, do not persecute me. I am not saying they are terrible creatures, I am just pointing out the fact that I am much more a dog person.

Well last night when I pulled up at my home after small group, Sophie and Kristen were waiting for me in the garage. Sophie ran to me as she always does. I imagine this a bit like having children. I, for one, have no kids other than the malte-poo, so am only making this judgment based solely on observation. Anyway, it was then that Sophie spotted a new friend: the cutest, smallest little silver and white kitten in all the land. I was scared of what my 10 lb. fur-ball might do to this petite little youngster, but to my surprise I found them kissing. Kristen and I almost cried it was so cute. They played together in the front yard, walked side-by-side on the sidewalk and kissed each other.

I figured it was our new neighbors' and didn't think about it

again. Until this morning. The little kitty cat was waiting for us on the front porch. He/she is the cutest thing. I opened the front door and put out a bowl of milk and water, since I do not know her drink of choice yet. She lapped up the milk. It is pretty much love.

Sophie and I went inside so I could finish getting ready for work. But Sophie was not happy with that decision. She sat by the front door and cried! She wanted her friend! I immediately called the husband to ask if we could keep the cat.

he said no.

But I don't care. I will name him/her and will continue to feed the little body as long as Sophie's friend continues to pay us a visit.

Now I just need a name for the cute thing. I was thinking gender neutral since I do not know the sex, but Trey informed me that all it takes is lifting the leg to see what gender he/she is. I didn't even think of that. I guess that is why I am not a vet.

I will let you know. Hopefully pictures, too.

(not the new friend, but there is an uncanny similarity between this googled image and the real deal)

Happy Birthday, my dear!

Today is my husband's birthday!!  HIP HIP HOORAY!!

In honor of his 28th, here are 28 fun facts about Trey that you may or may not know:

1) he is a master on the guitar

2) and the mandolin

3) he is so passionate about students and youth

4) he teaches 11th and 12th grade Sunday school and they pretty much think he is the coolest

5) he wanted a big dog, but now wouldn't trade our 9 lb. malte-malte-poo-poo for anything.  He talks to her when I am not in the room. 

6) he is the best big brother to Adam

7) he loves chocolate and sweets more than any girl I know

8) he loves being in the woods and reading

9) he wear bow-ties

10) he still drives the same truck he got in high school.  the other day I noticed a string hanging from the bottom.  when i asked him what it was, he responded without a hint of embarrassment that it was simply the string that held the balloon when it was on the car lot.  That was 12 years ago. 

11) he thinks there is no reason to buy a new truck

12) he loves Christmas more than anything, even chocolate.  he starts listening to Christmas music in September and begs me to put up the tree in October. 

13) he is a great gift giver.  He picks out clothes for me from Anthropology. 

14) he is brilliant.  really.  kinda a little too smart at times. 

15) he had really thick glasses as a kid.  Really thick.  He was pretty much blind.  He had surgery and now can see...contacts and glasses free!

16) when we were dating, he was a youth minister in Atlanta and had easy access to all kinds of crafts.  he would make me stuff and mail it to me. 

17) he loves going on vacation.  anywhere, really, but his favorite is snow skiing.  he will sacrifice eating if it meant he could go on vacation.  he thinks the memories are worth any cost.  I love that about him. 

18) he loves his family and would do anything for them

19) he loves my family and would do anything for them

20) he always says he wants boys when we have children, but I am convinced he secretly wants little girls - I see they way he spoils Sophie. 

21) he gets his hair cut at a crazy place where the girls cutting your hair wears referee uniforms and ESPN is always on.  I refuse to go in there. 

22) he will pay good money for a bow-tie, but refuses to buy socks. 

23) when we were first married, he was going to surprise me by cooking dinner.  he heard of cooking with wine, so he marinated chicken in red wine vinegar.  It was awful. 

24) he wants to be Indiana Jones

25) as a child he thought his baseball cards would one day make him a millionaire.  He still has the cards.  They are worth a total of about $21.00. 

26) he can draw and paint, but won't admit it. 

27) he thinks that if he had been trained correctly, he could have played beach volleyball in the Olympics.  I bring this up from time to time just for laughs. 

28) he is the greatest best friend in the whole wide world!

I love you, Trey, and I hope you have a fabulous 28th year of life!

reporting in

So when I said in my previous post that I had plans that did not include some hurricane raining on my parade, I should have also pointed out that my plans did not include throwing up everything I had inside me for hours straight. But alas, I play with the cards I am dealt.

I am sorry for the graphic nature of this blog, but please, for sympathy purposes only, let me explain to you all how my week got off to a banging good start.

The original plan was for me to leave Friday and head on up to Nashville to see my dear friend Susanna. We have been best friends since the 2nd grade when I introduced myself in Mrs. Saucier's class by saying "Hey. I'm Heathuw". In a really quiet, shy voice. Speech impediment and all. She loved me from the start. We were both wearing homemade bubble suits for crying out loud: it was a friendship made in Heaven. Anyway, I can tell I am losing you.

So I was going to go to Nashville to see her (Olivia, if you are out there reading this, my plan was to call you and see you too. a fun time would surely been had by all) . Well once Gustav was on his merry way, my husband, the careful coast-born hurricane ready man that he is, was fearful that once I was away, I would not be able to get back home in a timely manner due to the fact that the interstates coming in would be all be north-bound for evacuees. AWESOME. So I did as I was told. Not wanting to put my husband through any stress, I cancelled the nashville trip.

But I was not going to let Gustav ruin my whole weekend! Oh no. So I packed my bags and made my way to see my little Henry, or Hennie, as he calls himself. Since Trey had plans this weekend and would spend a great deal working and Gustav would not be paying a visit until Sunday or Monday, a trip to see my little man sounded like a plan.

And it was. We played. We ate. We read. We painted. We raced on bunnen-bunnens. Obviously this is the little riding thing for toddlers. I don't know how to spell it. By Sunday, Gustav was knocking on the gulf's doors and I was getting a little nervous. So what did I do? I headed south.

Kristen thought this to be a dumb thing for me to do, but I figured I did not want Trey to ride out the hurricane alone, should it decide to come to Mississippi, so I must go to him. So kissed everyone goodbye and drove home. Since I did not have my camera and do not have a visual, I would like very much for you all to use your imagination here: The traffic on I-20 heading out of Clinton was crazy. Full of cajuns and coasties, I am assuming. Trailers, busses, red cross vans. Everyone prepared for Gustav, who apparently everyone was assuming was Katrina's brother. The moment I turned onto South 49, I was alone. NOT ANOTHER CAR. 49 North was in standstill traffic. Not me. I was cruising at a good 75 MPH. I counted 4 other cars on my way home that day. 1 was a Red Cross van, but I am counting it for good measure.

So I get home on Sunday to see that my sweet husband cleaned the house. Cute boy. But that is besides the point. I started feeling a little woozy. So naturally we went to eat Mexican. We feel that cures all blues. Well, not this one buddy.

A few hours later I was hovered over the toilet ridding myself of all that I had eaten the past 72 hours. It was horrific. Poor Trey.

This lasted hours. Through the storm. There were several tornado warnings on Monday, so my sweet husband pulled the mattress off the daybed in a spare room and put in the hallway close to the bathroom. Easy access.

So that is how I spent my first half of the week. I just hope I didn't get Hennie or his parents sick.

Now you know.

a note to our friend in the gulf

Dear Gustav, 

First of all, I don't understand your name.  

Secondly, please don't.  Just don't. 

Just go away.   

I have plans for the weekend and next week, none of which includes cleaning up debris,  living without electricity, or having trees through my roof.  

There is already a line to get gas here and bottle water is running low at the stores.  I am in no mood for such none-sense. 

Please, for the sake of my sanity and those around me, take you and your friend Katrina and be gone. 

Thanks. 

Your friend, 

Heather

a hair accessory and a sax player

the olympics have been so much fun to watch. the competition, the glory, the heartache, the cute little chinese men walking around backstage. I love it all. Truth be told, the summer olympics could consist of only 2 sports and i would be completely fine. swimming and gymnastics. the swim thing is a new love, and i think the reason is obvious: michael phelps. he is a freak of nature and i love him. the other love, gymnastics, is not a new relationship. this has been a longtime love of mine. i am assuming it steams from my deep desire to be a gymnast. but alas, talent and athletic ability is required. I can do a cartwheel. no more, no less.

But there is one thing I do not love about the olympic games: the scrunchies.

Is it a requirement for all gymnast to wear such hairpieces? Perhaps there is an advantage of wearing such a garment? I understand the hair must be in place, but what I do not understand is why they resort to the fabric covered elastic band, surfaced in the 80's. There must be a better way. I commend you, Shawn Johnson, for not wearing a scrunchie every performance. Yes, you wear a ribbon tied in a bow, but I find that a better alternative to the bright pink scrunchies your teammate, Nastia sports. I challenge you, gymnasts, do away with your old ways. Break away from old habits. It will be well worth it.

But I do congratulate you, Shawn and Nastia, on your medals. I think you're both cute.

On a darker note, LeRoi Moore from the Dave Matthews Band passed away. He was a huge part of my high school and early college days. I thought, honestly and with my whole heart, that if Dave I would only meet, he would surely leave his wife and come be with me. So I spent a lot of time and money listening and traveling to see this band. LeRoi, rest in peace.

i do love lists.

so i am copying a few people, mainly MSKS, by letting the blog world know a few things i simply can not live without.  the rules are simple: list things that makes your life better, excluding the obvious like loved ones (including sophie. duh).  

i like this.  life it about the small things, right?

so here you are, my simple pleasures in life:

1) diet coke.  I am not ashamed to admit this addiction.  i only drink 1 a day (most days), so i like to think that this addiction is under control.  i like coffee, but only on certain days, in certain settings.  i can't really explain it.  it hurts my stomach at times.  i prefer my caffeine cold and in an aluminum can. 

2) hgtv.  my guilty pleasure.  i can't think of any show on this channel that i do not like.  i love house hunters.  i think suzanne wong is just presh.

3) bobbi brown concealer.  it is thick enough to last all day and covers my sometimes rather large under-eye circles.  an instant confidence booster. 

4) lip gloss.  there is little more i can say about this topic except that i love the feel of shiny lips.  on me, not trey.  didn't want there to be confusion. and my lip gloss doesn't have to be expensive.  drug store brand will suffice.  i love lip gloss so much so that a few years ago santa claus left me a whole box of lip smacker lip gloss in my stocking.  it was love.

5) fresh markers.  this also holds true for sharpies.  i love new markers.  new, juicy markers.

6) our hammock. it is large and comfy and in the most perfect shady spot in our backyard. trey, sophie and i can all sit in it comfortably.  that is until sophie's leg gets caught in the rope. 

7) text messaging.  MSKS, we are in an agreement.  Laura is the one that finally talked me into paying the $7.00 to get this incredible invention.  i thought it to be a waste...until my first text was sent.  now i consider myself a master at predictive text.

8) our ipod and speakers.  we love having music playing, so the recent purchase of a fabulous docking station was a great buy.  we love it.  and with a remote control, i feel like i have the musical powers. 

9) bubble bath.  again, drug store brand will suffice.  i love bubble bath.  in fact, i don't remember a time in my life when i didn't enjoy a good bubble bath.  sans the years spent living in community living (ie the dorms and kd house). i dare not get in the tub there.  shower only for me, thank you very much. 

10) comfy clothes.  i love to look cute, mind you. i love getting dressed up and wearing heels.  but at the end of the day, all i think about it comfy clothes.  i feel fairly confident that if socially acceptable, i would wear sweatpants and large t-shirts daily.  but i fear the rath of stacey and clinton, should that ever occur. 

happenings

hi blog land.  i've missed our daily chats. 

a lot to catch you up on.  naturally, i will number for easier reading. 

1) house is still on the market.  after i made a conscious effort to no longer think, worry or stress about the lacking of potential buyers, a great couple called us.  they are a young couple, much like ourselves, only younger, more newlyweds and with a baby on the way.  They were presh.  and loved the house.  i am not getting my hopes up.  they said they are looking at 1 last house today and then they will make a decision.  hooray for cute couples wanting our home. sophie even liked them at first sight.  if that is not a sign, what is? but i will not worry...

 i will keep you updated. 

2) last weekend trey and i staffed the happening.  familiar with such an event? allow me to explain for a moment. the happening is a mississippi high school retreat that 

began 20 years ago by the united methodist church.  it happens 3 times a year (i think.)  trey went through when he was in the 10th grade.  it was probably the most influential tool in helping build his relationship with christ.  he remained very involved throughout his high school days.  when he was in college he went through the journey - which is a slightly different college version of the happening.  following me? i went through the journey my freshman year in college.  my sophomore year I was on staff with trey.  that was our first meeting - remember that story? he didn't remember me, notice me...nothing.  oh well.  then we met a year later for a 2nd time and the rest is history.  when we got married he became an adult leader in the happening and since it was such a powerful part of his life, he really wanted me to be a part of it as well, so 2 years ago i, as an adult, went through the high school happening.  Now, 2 years later, we are on staff together.  it was so fun!  i will say that no sleep and no bath is a little challenging, but these high schoolers are amazing.  I loved every minute of it! if you are in high school or college or you have children those ages and live in mississippi - i highly recommend the happening and journey. 

here are a few pictures of last weekend. 

happening #55 staff

trey leading music

my personal favorite that someone took. a candid, no doubt. look closely for me. i am in mid-yawn.  i require sleep. 

3) While we were at the happening in ocean springs last weekend, sophie was on vacation at kristen, rob's and henry's house.  she was there from thursday-monday morning. she loved it.  as you might have guessed, henry bossed our little girl around. he told her when and where to sit, 'mone, sophie' (come on sophie) and nite-nite, sophie. he also fed her kidney beans.  i am sure she loved it.  so much so that when she was returned to us on monday morning she had matted kidney beans on her back and tail.  i dare not ask how it got there.  needless to say, she slept all day...after her bath, of course. 

House For Sale: Come On In.

Have I mentioned to you all that our house in on the market? Well, it is. For Sale By Owner. In other words: horrible.

The words "Showing available by appointment only" apparently mean nothing to some Hattiesburg residents. Last Sunday, Trey and I just enjoyed a peaceful Sunday afternoon nap when we decided to go into the living room (in our PJs, no less) to watch a little of TV (on our new TV and cable, no less) when a family of 5 knocked on our door and demanded a tour. Demand is a harsh word, I know, but there I was in an oversized T-shirt and Trey's boxers with a 3 year old running through the living room, 5 month old crying and a mother requesting to see the kitchen. There was nothing I could do but excuse myself as I go to our bedroom to put on...um....under garments.

This Sunday a women showed up an hour early for her showing. In broken English, she told us she wanted the house but didn't know how to buy it.

Money, lady. We want your money.

Geez. We get about 7-10 calls a day about our house, have shown it to about 4 families/couples/singles, but no offers. The one bathroom is killing us. Well, people, it's killing me too. One lady did ask if she could take Sophie instead of the house. No woman. My

malte-malte-poo-poo is not for sale. Get out.

I remain faithful.

I will keep you posted.

In other news, Henry likes to dance. Kristen, Laura, Henry and I went to eat Mexican the other night and on the way back to my house the radio was playing "Apple Bottom Jeans". Don't judge. It was his first taste of music other than kindermusic and church song

s. And from the looks of his dance moves, he liked it. During the "Low, low, low" part, he went crazy. dancing, clapping, laughing and singing "Low, Low, Low"

We have it on video. I would share, but the 3 Tomlinson sisters sound like a bunch of laughing hyenas in the background. Quite terrible. Just use your imagination.

So now Kristen said he asks for "Apple Bottom Jeans". He will randomly started singing "low, low, low".

He also learned his full name. Henry Thomas. In his words: "Henie Nomas"

Love that kid.

Here is a picture of him laughing at his Lita, my mama, last weekend:

Bye for now.

it's been a while. and i feel missed.

a terrible thought entered my mind the other day: maybe I should delete my blog. But then "Anonymous" reminded me that I am wanted.

and so i continue my love of the blog.

Big news in the Skaggs home: We bought a TV the other day. This is no small feat, mind you. Have you met Trey? He long thought such things were a waste of time and energy. We have had the large 1992 curved tube in our living room since marriage. With no cable. Trey thought this was the normal way of living. "Cable will rot our brains", said he. Well, after hitting the side of the TV when the picture went away during a rowdy episode of Wheel of Fortune on the local channel, Trey announced that, yes, he wanted a new TV. So off we went. I could faintly hear the music of Rocky playing in the background. It was a big step in our marriage. We bought our TV (nothing big, but flat and new. and when you push channel up, the TV doesn't turn off). We also pick up a DVD player since our current DVD player tends to stop movies mid-way, with no avail of starting it back up.

So a week has past with our new TV and DVD player. We were watching our 1 channel on our nice TV when Trey announced that he was thinking about cable. Hurricane season is coming up and he is a sucker for the weather channel. Surprised and shocked, I decided to say nothing, for it might jinx it all.

Well, friends, at 8 a.m. this morning, cable was installed at the Skaggs home. I can hardly wait to watch Jon and Kate plus 8. Don't call me for like a week...I will be busy.

In other news, we have a house guest until October. My eldest sis - Kristen. She is doing a surgery rotation in the Burg so lives with us from Monday -Thursday from July until October. She is having fun, actually - never is on call and actually gets 4 days of un-interrupted fun with little Henry, who is brilliant, by the way. The kid is 19 months and says 5 syllable words ("Happy Day, Daddy", for example) and says "Bess you, mom-eee" when Kristen sneezes. I pretty much love this kid.

That's all for now.

No fear, I will be back.

GOOD NEWS!

Thanks for all of your thoughts and prayers!

We received WONDERFUL news yesterday. My mom's pathology report showed that the cancer had not spread at all! Praise God!

What a relief. We all did not realize how tense and stressed we were about "the unknown" until we heard from the doctors. It was a huge sigh of relief! It feels good to breathe normally now!

Next step is for her stitches to come out next week - which I know she is SO ready for. Then in 6 weeks, she will go to the Oncologist just as a follow-up and also to get a full PET Scan so she can get a 'clear' of her entire body. Once that is over, we are completely in the clear! In the meantime, I am wearing 15 spf INSIDE my office. :)

In other news, last weekend was fabulous! We spent the weekend with Kristen and Rob and Henry. We surprised Rob with a party for his 30th birthday. It was great! Henry said "Happy Day" to him. So fun.

For pictures, see Laura's blog!

Sorry for the lack of blogging. this job is fabulous, but oh so time-consuming and a wee bit demanding. I love it, though! Hopefully I will blog some this weekend!

Have a great Thursday!!

prayers, please!

I have a favor to ask of all my fabulous, wonderful friends (those I know, and those who I do not!)

My mother found out Friday that she has Melanoma.  She is having surgery tomorrow (Thursday)  at 2 p.m. Please pray that the cancer is localized and has not spread - we have faith that she will be healed tomorrow!! 

The word "cancer" is such a scary word - so also pray for a peace of mind for all of us.  All of your thoughts and prayers will be very much appreciated as she undergoes this procedure and waits for the outcome.   I know there are many prayer warriors out there, so I wanted to send out this prayer request. 

Thanks, so much! 

- Heather

a long time a-coming...

Hello, blog world. It's been a while. I can only hope I have been missed. let me be the first to say I have missed you. The job is fabulous, but a bit time-consuming. however, I will get to that shortly

first things first...Happy late anniversary to my big sister and bro-in-law, Kristen and Rob! Happy 5 years!
Technically it was on the 7th and just because there was no blog action from the little sister on that day, does not mean I did not think of them. They are a precious couple for many reasons, but let's face the facts: they are everyone's favorite couple because together they made one cute little dude. Henry, obviously. Speaking of which, he is just adorable. Trey has limited "Prince Henry" talk to a mere 15 minutes per day. I shall never understand why he does not want to hear all there is to tell of my little man. For instance, he flushed bath cloths down the toilet the other day. And on his mama and daddy's anniversary, he walked around saying "happy day" to them. And if that is not enough, when leaving Mexican restaurants, he points to the people and says "Adios". I kid you not. Need proof that he is cuter than ever? Here you are:

Look at the belly. Kid doesn't miss a meal.

On a different note, this weekend was Amy's wedding. Very fun. Very beautiful. I have plenty of pictures to share once I can locate my camera attachment thingie. Life is frustrating. Not only did I run out of bubble bath last night, now I can't find my camera attachment thingie to download pictures. But I can't complain too much, my kitchen is completely finished with new tile. I would invite you to come over and view it, but am a little weary of open invitations since the break-in. Wouldn't want to eat my words, if you know what I mean.

Moving on: thanks for the call/emails/FB messages about the new job. So far, so good. I like to think of it as a match made in Heaven. By no means does this mean that it is easy. Far from it. I have tons to learn, but I get to wear trendy clothes and jeans any day of the week. Rock on. The people there are great and the atmosphere is so creative and fresh. I look forward to going each day. Just fabulous. I really do feel blessed.

Next point of blog: Nan and Jeremy are coming to spend the night on Friday. simply put: I CAN NOT WAIT. Do you realize it's been a year? Perhaps you have not, but I have, and I find that completely unacceptable. With any luck, Nan's baby bump is large and in charge by now. I simply can not wait to buy monogrammed items. Please be a girl. Nan, I have asked very little of you during the duration of our friendship, the least you could do is produce a female baby for me.

Well, the husband is calling. It seems he needs my assistance in feeding Sophie. So with that, I say goodbye.

I leave you with a few Memorial Day pictures:

Trey and Henry playing. He loves "tay". Side note: For all of Henry's clothes, please visit www.babyfacedesign.blogspot.com

cute mama

me and Trey

And sisters at the Margarita bar in the Cotton District:

Happy Anniversary!

Happy 2 years, Trey!
I love you more and more everyday. I am so blessed.

And, according to my mom, it just gets better and better! So here's to 70 more!!

I LOVE YOU! What a fun 2 years it has been!

PS - Yesterday was fabulous! I cant type long - I am writing this as I eat breakfast at my house, but soon I will update on my new job. But so far so good!

So long, farewell

Today is my last day at my current job. It is bittersweet. But I so much look forward to starting a new job at RARE. Monday is the big day. Whatever shall I wear?

Anyway, adios, USM. You've taken this bulldog in with open arms. And for that, I will be eternally grateful.

This week, since most of my work has been either completed or delegated, I have had little to do between the hours of 8 and 5 (sans the piles of paperwork that is involved in quitting a state job). The extra time on my hand thus resulted in me thinking about things I have not often pondered.

Thought 1: I need a hobby. My dear husband has many of these. Namely, golf and hunting. These are his two loves. They are relaxing for him, exercise for him and fun for him. While I am still trying to understand the adoration for sitting in the cold with the hopes of seeing an animal, I grew up with a daddy who golfed all the time - I know it is a passion.

My point is this - I want to have something that I look forward to doing on the weekends or my days off. I enjoy painting, but I want something where I can get outside or get some exercise and meet new people. I am up for a challenge

So I have come up with a few options:

1) Tennis. I am not a tennis player, but feel fairly confident that I could pick it up if given the opportunity. I am thinking about going to buy a raquet and tennis skirt and giving it a shot. My friend Olivia is on a league here in the 'burg. Only she is on the highest league there is. She was state campion in highschool. Take that, Serena. I wouldn't be able to play with her even if she was on my level - she is moving to Nashville this week. Bye bye, sweet Olivia. Tennis is probably my best idea for a new hobby. Plus, I hear it is a stellar workout for the gluteus maximus. Rock on.

(not me, but let's be honest: there is a striking similarity)

2) Roller Derby. Good news: according to the local news, Hattiesburg now is the home of a brand spanking new roller derby league. True story. I can only imagine that people that sign up to be a part of such an elite group. But nonetheless, it is a hobby and is one I will consider. until they make me wear spandex. Or roller skates. Other than that, I am up for whatever.

3) Smocking / monograming. I realize the physical aspect of this hobby is slim to none, but I imagine if I learn such a skill, money will follow. People, like my sister who dresses their child in nothing but smockings and/or monogramed clothing, would pay me the big bucks to dress their children. I don't know. My fear is that I will buy an expenisve machine, then quit halfway through a shirt for Henry, resulting in a shirt I will make him wear that says simply "Hen". I suppose it's a thought, though. I will keep it in mind.

So there you have it. My top 3 choices for a new hobby. Suggestions, comments and recomendations welcome.

I realize I have not given updates / pictures of last weekend. That was not intentional. I do apologize. Nan sent me a nasty message pointing out my lack of blogging this week. Demanding? Perhaps. But it makes me feel wanted. The weekend was fabulous. Our days in Starkville were spent watching Henry's every move, commenting on all he did. My Nana (Sassy Nana) bought him a kiddie-pool, so for an hour straight my whole family sat in lawn chairs surrounding his pool, watching Henry splash. Naked. Cute thing. I kid you not, this kid is a genious. He cleans up his mess, tells you exactly what he wants/needs, does not cry, and knows everyone (even my parent's neighbors) by name. Prodigy? Possibly. At not quiet 17 months, I would like to think so.

Pictures to come. Laura and my mama took the good ones. But they are at the beach, so I must wait. Poor them. Soaking up rays on the white sandy beaches as I slave away at my computer. Bitter much? Yes.

summer lovin' had me a blast

So it's not like I get off for summer or anything, but just the thought that summer is here brings me a sense of revival and refreshment. But let me set something straight for the record: there is nothing worse than the summer Mississippi heat in August. When I was little, I loved this swimming weather, but now that I must wear work clothes throughout the dead heat of summer, I can think of nothing worse. I love to sweat, mind you. But only when sweating is planned. Working out, for example. When I am in clothes, dressed for the day and walking to a meeting, the last thing I want to do is sweat.

Whether I asked for it or not, summer heat has hit the deep south. Two days ago as I was driving down the wretched Hardy Street, I noticed the temperature reading on the ever-so-disgusting KFC sign: 102 degrees. And it is not techincally summer yet.

But I live in Mississippi, my beloved state, so I digress.

In college, during the summers, I worked in Maine at the most wonderful place in the world: TLC. "The Promise Land", it is called. And rightfully so. My cousin, Jake, whom I love and adore, is there right now. Jealousy abounds. Point is this: weather in Maine during the summer is simply the best. Some morning and nights in July I needed a sweatshirt - JULY! SWEATSHIRT! It was all foreign to me. The girls that went to TLC were completely amazed and intrigued that I was from Mississippi. It was as if I had told them I was from outer space. My first summer there I was asked many questions: "Do you wear shoes?" "Have electricity?" "Have you ever heard of Couture?" Once we got through the basics of Mississippi and that, yes, indeed, I own a car, have internet, a cell phone, even an IPOD, the summers spent there were quiet enjoyable. In fact, it's safe to say, it was love. I miss it almost daily. Especially this time of year.

But alas, I am an adult now and must do adult things - like work 12 months a year.

However, in honor of the summer aproaching, and Laura being through with school, I have compiled a list of things I actually am looking forward to this summer:

1) Reading "Chasing Harry Winston" by Lauren Weisberger. I don't care if you judge me for reading this stuff - I think she is a riot and love all things she publishes.

2) Drinking Abita Seasonal. It's strawberry flavored and just so refreshing. A bit of bad news, however. I went to order one the other day and was given the horid news that they, whomever 'they' might be, stopped brewing the summery ale. It was all gone. While this hurt my heart to hear, the man behind the counter said he had one more and wasn't going to charge me. That made up for it. If you are out there reading this, you Abita people, please, for the sake of summer, make some more of that strawberry goodness.

3) Going to Camp Lake Stephens to visit my friend, Russell. He is one of the directors there. If you recall, faithful readers, Trey and I attended a dance there over New Year's. Last summer we spent a few nights there. I helped out with the convenience store, but was told my help was needed no more after I royally screwed up the money situation. Never was one for numbers.

4) Our anniversary is June 3. Year number 2. Should be fun. Last year we went to a Damien Rice concert in Memphis. This year we are keeping it low key. Gas is $4.00/gallen for crying out loud. Trey likes to keep things old school and follows the traditional gifts for anniversaries. This year it really works out in my favor: Cotton. I sent him a wish list of clothes via email. He has yet to bring that email up. I was only trying to make gift shopping easier. Always thinking of others.

(Damien Rice, my other love)

5) Amy's wedding. In just 2 short weeks my first Hattiesburg friend, Amy, is getting hitched. Going to be a fun weekend. The bridesmaids luncheon is at a fab restaurant, and you know I love to eat. She is going to be a beautiful bride.


That about covers it. It goes without saying that I am super excited about starting my new job, which happens June 2nd. I will keep you updated. It also goes without saying that I never turn down a good key lime pie in the summer.

Tonight I am heading to Starkville to see the fam. Kristen, Rob and Henry are coming too. I love that little man. We are staying until Monday morning, when we are then heading to the coast for a Memorial Day cook-out with Trey's fam. Good thing we both have fun families.

I now leave you with a product I recently discovered: TAZO Diet Giant Peach Green Tea. I typically shy away from drinks with more than 3 adjectives, but this one is just so divine. And with 0 calories, it is sure to become a summer favorite.

Happy Birthday to my Mommy!!

Today is my mom's birthday.

OH HAPPY DAY!

I could try and try a million words and none would ever come close to explaining my love and adoration for this woman. I can only pray and hope that when the day comes when I become a mommy that I am the kind of mother she is. I am so blessed.
I hope you have a wonderful birthday, mama! Can't wait to see you tomorrow!

I LOVE YOU TONS!

cute little mama

little bird gets engaged

I have a friend. I mean, I have many friends, but this story is about one of them:
Little Bird.

Her legal name is Kate. Katherine Kennedy Northrop, to be exact. But we affectionatly call her Little Bird. I know no reason why we do this other than she is very tiny, like a little bird.

Friday night she and my good friend, Toby, got engaged. It could not have been more perfect! Toby is a State Representative, and told Kate Friday afternoon that their Friday evening date plans must be cancelled - he had been called into special session and had to report to Jackson. Kate called me furious at the Mississippi legislature. It was just hilarious. I was very proud of myself for playing it cool and agreeing that being called to Jackson on a short notice was just wrong.

Toby had other plans, of course. None of which included special session. He had very creatively and precisly mapped out a scavenger hunt for his soon-to-be-bride. Trey and I were at stop number 4. I was told by Trey to not open my mouth - that I would give away everything. Looking back, he was probably right. But as it turns out, Kate got suscipous when she saw me because I, according to her "was dressed up and looked nice". Awesome. So apparently I normally look like chopped liver.

Anyway, at the last stop, Toby was there. I am sure sweet things were said. Then after the proposal, he took her to the Boom Boom Room, a bar downtown, where all their friends were there ready to help celebrate! It was so fun.

Some of the girls. Kinds dark, but I like the colors.

Toby and Kate celebrating their engagement

Some of the girls holding up little bird. Not sure why.

I am so happy for them and can not wait for October! LOVE YOU, KATE and TOBY! (but really more love to Kate) I think now would be the perfect time to start a blog. I am just saying.

CONGRATS soon to be MR. and MRS. BARKER!