new banner, new hair

I got a haircut today - 3 inches cut off. I feel like I lost 5 lbs. The cute girl cutting my hair told me 2 inches were just split ends. Oops.

Here I am. Picture curtesy of me, taken in my office.

Please ignore the tired look - it was taken close to 5.

As far as the banner goes, Tricia once told me that consistency is key to recognition. Oh well. My ADD comes out every now and then and I demand change. Hope you like it, readers!

recipe, from yours truly

I am not too much of a cook. I like to bake, but as far as preparing a delicious and healthy meal, I am no Betty Crocker. (or Melita Tomlinson...you choose the icon)

Anyway, yesterday we had brunch in our office. Everyone brought something to eat/drink. Me? I went by Shipleys and picked up a few dozen holes. please, no judgment. At the said brunch, I tried a very yummy casserole. I am not too much for casseroles, mind you. I don't even like my food to touch...why would I purposely make a meal like that? I can count on my hand the number of casseroles I like (poppyseed chicken, king ranch chicken, etc...) This breakfast casserole was delish, however.

So now I give you the recipe so you can try it out for yourself:

Mexican Breakfast Casserole:

1. Cook sausage, onions, green peppers, salsa and chiles (or jalepenoes - optional) ; drain
2. Put large spoonfuls in a tortilla, roll and line them in a dish
3. Pour scrambled eggs over them (about 10 eggs)

4. Pour bag of shredded cheese over the top

5. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes.

Enjoy! Make you say "ole'!"

Ignore me

Please ignore the nonesense going on with my blog right now. New year...trying new banner. May resort back to old one, but in the meantime, I am just playing!

PS: Is it Friday yet?

Baby, it's cold outside

It finally feels like Christmas, thus resulting in my very festive mood.

This weekend was great. Laura and JR were stayed the weekend with us - cute things. It was fun hanging out with the sis and her BF. I finished up my Christmas shopping this weekend, as well. Feels good to finally be done. Trey and I are traveling so much over the holidays (Starkville, Collinsville, Gulfport, Oxford, etc...) so we decided to hang out in the burg with the sis and herr BF. What a good decision.

Good news: Sophie met Santa. She was not so sure about him, however. If she were human, I could see her rolling her eyes at the stupidity of it all - bunch of kids (dogs) lined up to see a fat man in a red suit - but since she is a dog, she kept her mouth shut and let me have my fun. Max went with us, too. He was super still during the whole process - and made a pretty cute pic in the end. Sophie, however, was not happy at all with how Santa was holding her. She was very squirmy, then tried to kiss the bearded man. Oh well. She wore a santa hat and fur collar, but her hat was all in her eyes by the time it was her turn. Here is the pic, please notice the fact that Santa is laughing at my ridiculous pup.

Sophie likes the cold weather. Here she is sporting her new parka:

And finally, a little questionaire to get you in the Christmas spirit: (as seen on LT, MSKS, and Claire's blog)

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? I am going to have to say wrapping paper. There are some great bags out there, but unless the gifts requires packaging suitable for bagging, I prefer wrapping paper. And just as Laura mentioned, our mother taught us well: it's all about presentaion. So I have coordinating paper with fabulous rafia and ribbon tied on each. Trey thinks this is silly, but then again, he thinks most things I do/say are silly.

2. Tree--Real or Artificial? Either. We have an artificial one this year. We bought it last year before Christmas. However, Trey has mentioned more than once that we will be "hunting" for a real tree next year. "Little full, lot of sap."

3. When do you put Christmas tree up? Mother's rule: day after Thanksgiving. However, when you travel during the holidays and are not back at home until a few days after, it has to do. Trey begged for us to put the tree up before Halloween. I will not be made a fool, hunny.

4. When do you take the tree down? Well, again, we travel during the holidays, so I will say after the New Year. But take note: if I stayed at home, I would have it down no later than the 28th.

5. Like egg nog? I have only tried it once, at my friend's house. Her dad apparently makes a mean nog, but it was a little 'noggy', if you ask me. I will stick to spiced tea or apple cider. thanks.

6. Do you have a nativity scene? No, but I want one. I really like the Willow Tree angels nativity scene. Perhaps in years to come...

7. Favorite gift received as a child? ooohhhh. Tough one. Santa was good to me as a child (and still is today.) I do recall my barbie house, walking/barking toy pup, little tykes doll (and van and house...cool!) and pogo stick. I was a killer pogo-sticker.

8. Hardest person to buy for? men in general. We draw names on my mom's side and I secretly pray that I do not draw one of my uncles. Hint to the fam out there: I didn't draw them this year. Score.

9. Easiest person to buy for? my sisters. We are all the same.

10. Worst Christmas gift? I can't recall a bad gift, per say. I can recall a few 'interesting' ones.

11. Mail or email a Christmas Card? duh. Mail.

12. Favorite Christmas movie? Christmas Story, Christmas Vacation, It's a Wonderful Life, The Real Santa Movie (the one made in the 80's), the Grinch and Elf. But, please, don't think for one second that if a "Very Brady Christmas" came on TBS that I wouldn't drop everything I was doing to watch it. I would.

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? I started in October...I finished yesterday. Next year I would like to be finished by December. It's my New Year's resolution. (Last year it was to wear more gold, and I succeeded. Set your goals low - they are more reachable.)

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? no. Not that I can recall. I am not above it, however.

15. Favorite food to eat on Christmas? any. I have already packed on a few lbs this season. I do love Christmas brunch. Cheese grits...mmmmm...

16. Clear or colored tree lights? white lights, for the most part. we currently are displaying white lights. However, I am contemplating throwing in some color next year to mix things up. One day I will have mulitple trees. (Not to compete with Amanda, who has 5 this year)

17. Favorite Christmas Song? "Oh Holy Night", "Carol of the Bells", "Drummer Boy", "Breath of Heaven", "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen", and the list goes on and on.

18. Travel during Christmas or Stay home? Being with family is number one: so that means traveling.

19. Can you name Santa's reindeer? Only if I sing the tune of that song.

20. Angel or Star on tree top? No preference. I would love a beautiful angel one day. Right now I have a bow. Don't judge me.

21. Open presents on Christmas Eve or morning? You can't Santa's gifts until Christmas morning. Growing up we could open one gift on Christmas Eve - it was from our great aunt and uncle. It was always pajamas. We would wear them that night. Well, a few years ago we opened the gift ready to change into our new PJs to see a Christmas mug. I guess that tradition has stoped.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? one: people get stressed out. i mean, I realize it can be stressful, but people - if you are getting stressed, you are missing the true meaning of the season! Enjoy it and don't get your panties in a wad! This brings me to my next point: Christmas is so commercialized that often the true meaning is overlooked all together. We should all just have a birthday party for Jesus and be done with it. remember the true meaning of the season this year!

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

sassy nana has a birthday

Today is my NANA's birthday. She is 81. She would be upset if she knew I told my tens of readers her real age, but since I am fairly certain she will not be hitting up any cyber cafes today, I think I am safe. Let me tell you something about Nana. First of all, she doesn't look a day over about 65 and doesn't act a day over 25. She is fun and spunky. Need a shopping partner? Call Nana. Want to go out for a glass of wine? Call Nana. Need a prayer? Call Nana. Need boyfriend/husband advice? Call Nana. What other grandmother do you know asks to see your presents after a lingerie shower? My nana did. She was so funny ...laying out each piece for each night of my honeymoon. Weird? Not all at. She is hysterical.

Tuesday night my family (sans me, Trey, Kristen, Rob and Henry) went to Harvey's for a pre - birthday celebration. I called her yesterday afternoon to see how the festivities were going. Her response? "Oh I went to two parties on tuesday and two today! Party, party!" How funny.

I sometimes talk about my Dada who passed away last November from Alzhymers. Well, before he became sick, Nana and Dada were involved in EVERY club and organization possible. Dance club. Couples Bridge. Supper Club. Birthday Club. this doesn't count the church activites they were ALWAYS involved in. They were both super involved in a Sunday school class until my Dada came to the conclusion that they were surrounded by "older people". Granted he was the oldest by AT LEAST 15 years (he died at age 89). Basically, some of the members were not able to be as active as they once were, and while they still loved them, they switched to a younger, more lively crowd. I love it. During his sickness, my Nana became 'homebound' as well, forcing her clubs and activities to the waistside. It has taken Nana close to a year since his death to fully want to be involved in those things again, but now she is not slowing down. Literally, something to do everyday.

Nana is such a sweet, Godly woman with the kindest heart. She always wants her family to be together and be happy. One example: when Kristen was in med school, she made the comment to Nana that she wanted a massage. Nana thought this to be a strange request, but not wanting to disappoint her eldest grandchild, she went out a purchased a flower "corsage"! Yeah, like the 8th grade dance thing! She missunderstood "massage" for "corsage". So Kristen proudly wore her corsage.

I hope I am like her when I am 81 - she is healthy, lively, sweet, funny, and young at heart. She is truly a JOY to be around. I miss being right down the road from her!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, NANA!
May you have 20 more happy birthdays to celebrate.

I love you so very much!!

Ho, Ho, the mistletoe

Even though it is 80 DEGREES in the burg, it is still Christmas time and there is still a lot of cheer to go around. I love this season. Good news: cold front is moving in on Wednesday, so cooler weather is on the horizon. Score.

Last night Trey and I went downtown to this adorable store to do a little shopping. On the way back we went through the historical district to look at lights. I am all about Christmas lights. Bad news for us - our 1953 home does not have outdoor electrical outlets, so our lights are minimal. Such is the life, I suppose. But our neighbors have tons of lights which really brighten our little home. However, nothing compares to the house located on Walnut street here in historical Hattiesburg. Everything from a manger with a light-up baby Jesus to a giant blow-up SpongeBob wearing a Santa's hat. I don't know about you, but when I see SpongeBob, I see Christmas. I was so happy this family captured all the Christmas spirit in the form of 9 million twinkling lights. I could tell as we drove by the house my husband's head was spinning at the thought of the electricity bill and the power wasted. Me? I was thinking about a solid Christmas blog post.

Here you are, readers: Winter Wonderland. The pictures do not really do justice. Walking in your yard is so over-rated this time of year. I am thinking about going back tonight to get some video footage. Hopefully more to come.

After the light show, I went to a girl's Christmas ornament swap party with Kate, first lady - little bird. I only knew Kate at the pary, but if you don't know me, I am not shy. So off I went. I do not like missing a party - finger foods, wine, PRESENTS...what's not to love? Plus, I met some fabulous girls. I was expressing to Trey the need to find a precious ornament. Not just any ornament (or one off our tree, wrapped, as he suggested). No, I need "the" ornament. It was played like dirty santa and I was not going to be known as the new girl with bad ornament taste. Lucky for me, I found the winner. It was 'stolen' three time during the game. Success, if you ask me. Plus, I went home with a fabulous, large, snowflake ornament. I love Christmas.

Here is a pic from last night. (kate - or little bird, if you will - is the one in the middle)

little man's birthday bash (and other news)

Saturday we had a little party for Henry's birthday. Big one year old. His birthday was on the 1st, but due to my sister's (his mama's!) crazy work schedule, we celebrated on the 8th. (She is an OB/GYN resident and works crazy hours). All 4 of Henry's grandparents, all 3 of his aunts, his two uncles and his sweet little Nanny were there to celebrate with him and his mama and daddy. He was so cute at the party. He was interested in every present he opened and gave each one attention. Even the clothes. Presh. He was not so sure about the cake at first. Kristen had a "smash" cake made just for him. It was so adorable. It matched his outfit. But he was so gentle with it at first. Once he realized it tasted fabulous, he was all about it. He had his one year pictures made the other week with another smash cake and she said he barely stuck his toe in it. Priceless. Here are some pictures from the party. Yes, I took a picture of him opening each gift; I will refrain from posting all pictures. Always thinking of my readers.


Thursday I drove to Memphis to visit Jordan in the hospital. If you are a reader of her blog, you know that she had surgery. Can I just say that she is the bravest little thing in the world? I was able to spend some time with her in the hospital before I left for Jackson on Friday. I have had a lot of people call me to check on her. She is at home now and doing well, but still in some pain. I know those who know her will attest to this: She is the most amazing person...her spirits were high the entire time. She is truly the strongest person! Please continue to pray for her and Saunders. I know this was the best decision for her and I am so proud of her! I was also able to hang out with Jenny Ruth while I was in Memphis. I am so glad I finally got to get to know her! She is precious!! A big thanks to Amanda and Luke for letting me stay at their precious home while I was there. And I am so sorry my dog is a big snob and wouldn't play with Bandit. she really does love him. So good to see two of my very best friends in one week!!

(just look how snobby Sophie looks!)

In other news, each Christmas (ok, this is only our 2nd time) Trey and I make a gingerbread house. Really I make him do it. I think it is important for us to have our own traditions. Trey is a little OCD with it, however, and I am little concerned about continuing this tradition when we have kids. I have a feeling he will not allow them to help. "Heather...let me do it. The roof is crooked. You put too much icing on the chimney." really, hunny?? It's a gingerbread house. But I am thankful we have a straight roof on the sugar house. Here are pictures.

PS - I promise Trey can smile correctly. He is making fun of me.

fat pants

I think I eat more when I wear a skirt.

Is there a scientific theory that proves such a fact? When I wear pants, I tend to not eat as much. Today, however, I wore a skirt. And today was "day-o-parties" on campus, resulting in sugary hot teas and decadent finger foods. Bring on the holidays.

Perhaps my new year's resolution will be "wear more pants", which totally flies against all that I believe in: "Never trust a woman who only wears pant suits". I think this theory has developed during the Clinton '08 campaign. Does the woman own a skirt?

Never-the-less, I think I eat more when I wear a skirt.

(Not me)

deck the halls

I made my frist wreath. I am proud of it. Please do not ask if I made the bow. The answer is no. I paid a precious little old lady in Michael's Craft store to do it for me. $8.00. What a steal. But I picked out the ribbon and ornaments, so it is my creation, if you ask me. Here is a picture of our tree. This bow was made by my co-woker/friend, Vassie. I should get her to teach me how to make them. Last year we had about 5 strands of Chrstmas lights. This year: one. Sorry, Melita, you would not approve. Trey decided we should go "green". Whatever. I think it is still pretty, sans 4 strands.
Laura, I should beat you for purchashing the following ornament for my dear husband. I realize you thought it to be funny, however, my husband took it very seriously, placing it front and center of our Christmas tree. A hunter married a woman who has a Christmas theme and wraps each present accordingly. Interesting life we live. How ugly is this ornament? Thanks, LT. Your time is coming.
In other, not so Christmasy news, my parents gave us a piece of furniture a couple of months ago to refinish. We finally got around to working on it this weekend. Our kitchen is rather large for a small, older home, but it is the most inefficent room ever built. Very little cabinet space and two outlets!! Anyway, we thought this piece of furniture would go great in the middle of the kitchen to serve as an island with extra storage underneath. It was originally from a very old department store in Starkville that went out of business in the '80s. I don't know how my parents ended up with it, but regardless it has been taking up space in my parent's attic for the better part of 2 decades. It was in desperate need of repair. Lucky for me, I love HGTV. We stained the wood and tiled the top. It worked out prefectly! I put serving pieces and platters on the shelves, so now I actually have room for food in the pantry. We are really living the high life now. Thanks, mama and daddy for the cabinet/shelf thing! I do not have a picture of the before, sorry, let's just say it looks better now. (no, it does not match our kitchen at all!! Who cares?! not me! I don't like the kitchen anyway! plus, I have storage!)
To thank my husband for tiling the cabinet (there was measuring involved, I dont' do numbers), I made him cookies.

Problem: 1/2 cup of flour in my less-cluttered pantry. The recipe calls for 2 3/4 cups. I didn't think it was that big of a deal. Afterall, my mom "improvises" when she cooks and her food is always fabulous. I decided to not worry about it and keep cooking. Well, the cookies didn't so much turn out as I had planned. When I handed Trey his so-called cookie, he asked for a spoon. Needless to say, I threw the remainder of the goo in the garbage.

Last, but certaintly not least, HENRY THOMAS IS ONE! He had his first birthday Saturday! His little party is on the 8th, so pictures to come, for sure. I can't believe it has been a year. I am so much in love with this little man. He brightens all of our lives! I love being an aunt to this precious little boy. I LOVE HENRY!
Check out Laura's blog for a precious slideshow of our adorable nephew. (Yes, we are 2 very obsessive, annoying aunts.)

week in review

Happy Friday!

thank goodness this week is over. Not that it has been a bad week, just so busy. Tuesday I went to the Beau Rivage on the coast for work. I know, tough gig. Someone's gotta do it. i did not gamble, however. I get mad if I lose a dollar. A penny saved is a penny earned, right mama? But the hotel and casino was decorated for Christmas and was so beautiful. It really got me in the Christmas spirit. (save the life size carolers in the hotel lobby, they really freaked me out.)


The Christmas feeling continues - Wendnesday night the University had a campus-wide Christmas tree lighting ceremony, complete with caroling, hot chocolate, and Santa. Locals brought their children dressed in their holiday best. Not to be out done, Sophie joined in for the festivities. She wore a santa hat and fur shawl. She was the cutest. I love my dog. Some dogs will get angry at you for dressing them up and flaunting them around campus. Not Sophie. She is a dog after my own heart. Bring on the costumes and attention. She even let Santa hold her for a quick photo opt. Unfortunately, my camera battery was dead. I was just sick about it. No fear, though. The mall here allows you to bring your pet to take a picture with santa on Tuesdays. We will get out picture. In the meantime, Trey's boss made fun of him for holding such a prissy dog dressed in white fur and a santa's hat. He referred to Sophie as "Bedroom slipper dog". what does this mean? How rude.

Last night I went with two of my friends, Olivia and Crystal, to a "Ladies Night Out". A bar, you ask? No. A sporting/hunting store. What a riot. we were greeted with a glass of wine and plate of cheese. It was a promotion to get ladies in there to buy for the men in their lives. It was great - free massages, HUGE savings, door prizes (I won NOTHING, by the way. Chrystal won a free make-over. Jealousy.), and food. I didn't buy anything, but it was a good excuse to get away from men and have a free drink.

Our tree is up and looking pretty dinky. I bought some pretty ribbon yesterday to make a hug bow to put on top. Unfortunately my bow didn't turn out so well. So I brought the ribbon to work and bribed the lady next door to make me one. It is gorgeous. She made it so it has a lot of extra ribbon to hang down over the tree. It will really add a little to our sweet, humble tree. Hanging it tonight. Pictures to come.



I went to our storage room in our garage a few days ago to retrieve the wreath for the front door. I bought it last year. It is the berry wreath. Anyway, apparently sometime during the year something ate the berries. Moths? Mice? I don't know. I rather not think about it. the point is the wreath looks like poo. Half the berries are gone and the ones that surived show the white under the red coating of the berries. I demanded a new wreath. Do you know what my husband's response was?



"what's wrong with it? Looks like it has snow on it."



Stupid. I will be making a wreath this weekend. My first attempt at making my own, but I have seen some that are precious and I am convinced that I can create my own. Just call me Martha.

Pictures of the "snowy" wreath soon.

That is all for now.