Christmas all around!

Take a little time! This is really fun (and somewhat of a nice stress reliever!) =)

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? wrapping paper no doubt. I'm my mother's child. I have a different theme each year, so all of my presents look the same. I love to wrap, although I'm not nearly as good as some.
2. Tree--Real or Artificial? I'm not partial to either one really. I have an artificial tree because it's easier and you don't have to water it, but I do love the real tree smell.
3. When do you put Christmas tree up? As soon as possible without being tacky about it. I always want to do it in October but others won't allow me to do such.
4. When do you take the tree down? I wait as long as possible without, once again, being tacky. It's usually the beginning of January. I love Christmas.
5. Like egg nog? no, but I kinda wish I did. I think it looks festive. I do LOVE egg nog bread. Heather gave me that recipe once. It's fabulous even if you don't like egg nog itself.
6. Do you have a nativity scene? I don't actually.
7. Favorite gift received as a child? Probably the awesome Barbie house Santa brought the 3 of us one year. Of course Heather and I thought it was the wrong color, so we try to 'paint' it white with toothpaste. It didn't work and we got in trouble.
8. Hardest person to buy for? MSKS and all of the males in my family.
9. Easiest person to buy for? probably my sisters. They pretty much like the same things as me.
10. Worst Christmas gift? honestly can't think of one that has been just completely terrible!
11. Mail or email a Christmas Card? MAIL! I love Christmas card pictures! I've gotten really good ones this year. Some friends and fellow bloggers who have sent some great ones this year: the Skaggs, the Smiths, the Overstreets, and the Lowes. Love them all! Last year I sent out a picture of Max wearing a santa suit, but he got made fun of so badly for it so he refused to pose for me this year. Thanks a lot guys. I opted AGAINST sending out the one man shot of myself from the church directory as a Christmas card. Haha. Expect to get a cute one from me one day when I have cute kids to show off.
12. Favorite Christmas movie? Sorry...can't choose just one. a. Christmas Vacation b. Christmas Story c. Home Alone (JR and I actually watched that one Sunday afternoon...LOVE IT) d. Grinch e. Elf
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? usually mid October. I was pretty much finished shopping by Thanksgiving. I love being finished early.
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? not that I recall. That's not a lie either.
15. Favorite food to eat on Christmas? anything sweet I can get my hands on. We also eat a big breakfast on Christmas morning. I love cheese grits and biscuits. Yummy.
16. Clear or colored tree lights? clear
17. Favorite Christmas Song? O Holy Night, Mary Did You Know?, Go Tell it on the Mountain...I could go on and on
18. Travel during Christmas or Stay home? In the past, we've traveled before or after Christmas, but we're usually home on Christmas day. This year may be a little different, but I don't plan on traveling too far regardless!
19. Can you name Santa's reindeer? DUH!!! Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixon, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, and Rudolph.
20. Angel or Star on Tree top? no preference. I don't even have a tree topper!
21. Open presents on Christmas Eve or morning? morning!
22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? When people forget the real meaning of Christmas. I also don't like it when people refuse to say "Merry CHRISTmas". Get over yourselves!

Your turn! :)

My sweet Nana...the birthday girl.

My wonderful grandmother turns 81 years old today. She would kill me if she knew I was broadcasting her age over the Internet, but I think it's important for all to realize how incredible she looks for someone her age. She doesn't look 81 does she?

Those of you who know Nana know how special she is. She has the fashion of a 20 year old with a mind of a young woman not much older than that. She's hip, stylish, LOVES to be the center of attention, and is so fun to be around. She's by far one of my favorite people in the world. You've heard me talk about my Dada before and you probably remember that it's been over a year since he passed away. Well, this sweet lady was his rock. She was the one who insisted that he be cared for in his own home, as opposed to a nursing home or something similar. She endured so many tough times while caring for him, sometimes questioning whether or not she could continue doing what she did. She proved to her family members (and surprised herself I think) by being the best caretaker my grandfather could have ever wished for. Even during those times when my Dada could no longer communicate with us, he would give her a certain look as if he were thanking her and expressing how proud he was of her.

She is such a Godly woman who has demonstrated strength better than anyone I know. She has such a strong faith that is admired by so many. She always says that there is no way she could have done what she did had she not had God right there with her. What an amazing role model she is.

These pictures were taken Tuesday night when my parents, aunt, uncle, cousin Jake, and JR took Nana out to eat to celebrate. Your presence was greatly missed Kristen and Heather!

Happy Birthday to my sweet Nana. Oh how she is loved!

P.S. I received a threatening comment from my dear friend Claire, who is demanding me to blog more about what is going on in my life right now rather than blogging so much about my nephew. Well, Claire, I apologize, and I'll try to do better about this. What you must understand is that my life right now consists mostly of surviving each school day until I get out for Christmas, while trying to fight off various sicknesses that my students bring to school with them. I can assure you that the life of my 1-year old nephew is much more exciting! :)

I'm glad you care about my life, though, so I'll try to do better about keeping you updated on it. :)

I FINALLY GOT IT TO WORK!!

CAKE TIME! from Laura Tomlinson on Vimeo.

sweet little birthday boy.

If you've already checked out Heather's blog, you've seen most of these pictures already, but how could I not post pics from the birthday bash? As Heather said, Henry was surprisingly gentle as he dug into his cake. (I'm in the process of getting a video uploaded, so hopefully I'll have it posted soon so you can watch him trying to figure out what in the world is going on!) I think this was the most sugar he's ever consumed at one time because he was W*I*L*D for the next couple of hours. Watching him open presents was a sight too. He seriously smiled and got excited about every little thing he opened. I gave him a book (it's only appropriate that his "teacher aunt" give him a BOOK, right?) and some really cute waterproof labels that I ordered from Babyface Design. A favorite gift of his was the Bully doll that played the fight song and danced.

He absolutely loved it.

As I was viewing the pictures on my camera that I had taken that day, I came across a few pictures that I actually had NOT taken. Hmmmm...Heather thinks it's funny to take my camera or phone and just take pictures of herself. Lots of them. All of the time. Well, Heather, you need to know that once a picture gets on my camera, there's a good chance it'll end up on my blog.

So, here you have it, friends, my little sis at her best (even though she looks like she'd been drinking a little here! haha)

Look how she's holding her pup. Poor Sophie.

random thoughts on a Friday...

It's Friday, and I'm feeling like I do on most Fridays-tired, but REALLY happy that the weekend is here. I'm spending my evening alone, and I'm actually enjoying myself. I just got finished cleaning my house, which always makes me happy. I lit some Christmas candles and fixed some spaghetti (yes, I cooked for one person), and now I'm watching "Elf" on TV while thinking about taking a nice bubble bath shortly. I'm not sure life gets any better than this.

Tomorrow I'm heading to Clinton for Henry's birthday party (his 1st bday was Dec. 1). Kristen and Rob decided just to have a small get together with immediate family and a few of Kristen's Jackson friends (and their babies :) ). Heather will be there, of course, so it'll be fun just spending the day with the fam. I plan on heading back tomorrow afternoon at some point. I can't wait.

Totally changing the subject-I've really been wanting to try the "Holiday Mint Blast" from Sonic. Has anybody had one of these? Everytime JR and I drive by Sonic and see the sign advertising them, I always talk about how much I want one, but I always talk myself out of getting it. They look so yummy though, so I think I'm just going to bite the bullet and get one. It's the holidays right?

I mentioned recently how my will power has been shot lately. Well, as the weather is getting colder outside, and it's getting dark sooner, I'm becoming less and less motivated to exercise, which is NOT good. Sometimes I'll justify eating something not-so-healthy by saying that I can just 'run extra' (sometimes this works and sometimes not so much, but it's a good thought anyway...). The problem is, I've been unmotivated this entire week to do any type of physical activity-whether it's running outside or going to the gym. I seem to be finding something else I'd rather be doing. WHY IS IT SO DIFFICULT TO BE 'GOOD' THIS TIME OF THE YEAR??Oh well. Maybe I'll get back in the swing of things Jan. 1.

And changing the subject yet again...I haven't been to the movies lately. Seriously. I don't remember the last time I went to the movies. This is for several reasons: 1. JR is not a movie watcher, so when we're together, we usually don't opt for going to the movies 2. It's not everyday that I have 8 extra dollars lying around to spend on a movie (and then, of course, you have to add about 6 more dollars for the Diet Coke and Hot Tamales that I consider a MUST while at the movies). 3. There hasn't been a single movie lately that I've been dying to see. The thing is, I've really kinda in the mood to go to a movie, though, so I need some recommendations. Know of any good movies worth seeing? Suggestions welcome. :)

That's all for me. I'm tired of thinking today. I'm either about to go to Sonic or to take a bubble bath. I haven't decided yet.

I leave you with this precious invite I got in the mail last week. :)

TGIF!

Happy Birthday Katey!!!

I just wanted to give a birthday shout out to my dear friend Katey! She's been such a special person to me and she has quickly become one of my most favorite people! If you know her, you know what an encouragement she is (and you also know how stinking cute her little Camp is!!!). It seems as though when Katey and I hang out, it is either just the 2 of us or Camp is with us, thus leaving no one to take a picture of the 2 of us! Therefore, I don't even think I have a picture of me and Katey to post. Bummer! Katey--we must do something about this (maybe it's time we teach Camp how to use a camera)!!! :)

Anyway, I hope you have a GREAT day today. I love you and I'm so thankful for your friendship!!!

Let's go BOWLING!!!

MSU is Liberty Bowl-bound!

The bulldogs will be playing the University of Central Florida on December 29 at the Liberty Bowl in Memphis! While it doesn't look like I'll be attending (tear), I'll be proudly cheering on my dawgs! :) JR will be working during the game (it also happens to be his birthday!), so even if I were able to go, it's not like I'd really get to see him. It will be fun and I AM just a little envious of anyone who is going!

ANYWAY...it's great to get a bowl invitation this year! I'm so proud!

Oh, just ONE MORE THING...

Did anybody hear what bowl Ole Miss was invited to? Where are they going? What was their final record this season? Wait...did they even PLAY this season? I don't know why I'm drawing such a blank here. :)

I know you probably think that I spend my free time driving around aimlessly for cleverly written signs to post on my blog. Well, believe it or not, I've actually just been fortunate enough to stumble upon such gold mines as this one...

GENIUS, 'Strange Brew'...I LOVE IT!

(It says "Sorry Coach O-we're not hiring" in case you're having trouble reading it!)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HENRY!

My sweet little nephew entered the world a year ago today. Little did I know how much this little man would change my life! :) Oh, how I love him. Here is a little slideshow of pictures from Henry's first year.

I couldn't have said it better myself!

Click here.

I ditto everything Heather said (although, she is quite dramatic!) :)

Happy almost TGIF!

ready or not...here it comes!

I can't believe it's almost that time again! Oh how I love Christmas.

I love everything about it...the music, the food, the cards, the decorations, the weather, the family time, GETTING 2 WEEKS OFF OF WORK....I could go on and on about it.

I'm sure it's no surprise to most of you that I'm ready for the fun to begin:

Christmas shopping complete: check

Gift wrapping complete: check

Christmas cards addressed, stamped, and ready to be mailed: check

Christmas decorations in place: check

Here are some pictures of my little place all decorated:

I love the way this picture looks!

my quaint little tree (notice Max's adorable stocking in the top corner!)

My table stays set year round. The pieces, placemats, napkins, etc. change according to the season/holiday. Here is my Christmas setting. Oh, and your eyes are not misleading you...I have name place holders and I felt compelled to place names in them (you know...since I have so many dinner parties at my house...haha). Isn't that what these little name holders are for? Anyway, the 4 names that are placed around my table are: Holly, Joy, Noel, and Merry. That's right. Holly. Joy. Noel. Merry.

Heather, Candy, and Kristen have already made fun of me for this, and I'm totally prepared to hear from this friend, this friend, and this friend regarding this particular decor. Hey....I was debating on using names of the characters from "The Office," but aren't my 'Christmasy' names more appropriate? :)

I'm not really sure why I thought you'd want to see a picture of my lovely up-to-date oven. I do like my new and *inexpensive* little "Jingle Bells" sign though!

....and a couple of views from outside...

Is anybody else ready to watch "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" and eat puppy chow?

jingle all the way!

Heather and Jenny both had fun using this site, so I thought I'd play around with it myself.

Click here for a good laugh... (JR is most definitely going to KILL me for this! haha).

Go ahead and 'Elf Yourself' (or elf someone else if you're like me!)...what better way to get in the Christmas spirit?! :)

The egg is OURS!

MSU-2007 Egg Bowl CHAMPS!

Ole Miss- 2007 Egg Bowl LOSERS!

Yesssssss..........

The Holiday Inn followed up with this sign after the game. Love it.

Me and Heather celebrating after the game.

Me, Kris, and Heather

Me and JR

I was nervous about the game...I won't lie. When we were losing 14-0 at the beginning of the 4th quarter, I thought the game was over and I almost became one of those fans that leaves before the game is over. However, my dawgs decided to start playing football and scored our first touchdown with 10 minutes left in the game. Everything went our way after that. I love being a bulldog.

My week off was fabulous (except for the fact that I've been dealing with a stomach bug for the past 24 hours. I haven't been able to eat anything for about 36 hours now...you should feel very sorry for me...). I've been able to spend lots of time with my family, relax, decorate for Christmas, and watch my bulldogs win!

I hope you have a fantastic week!

busy body

Henry has been VERY mobile these days. His "boyish" personality is really starting to shine and he is into EVERYTHING. Kris, Rob, and Henry were here for a couple of days. I love every minute I get to spend with that little boy. He discovered my parents' staircase while they were visiting and loves to climb them. TROUBLE! I took these pics of him climbing up...look at that look on his face. Haha. I want to eat him up!

Henry loves his Nana (my sweet grandmother). I love this picture.

When Nana came over, she brought several toys for Henry. We thought it was so hilarious because he wouldn't just play with one toy at a time. Instead, he put one in his mouth, one in each hand, and the rest of them were on the floor in his lap. Hilarious.

Happy Turkey Day!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Mom, Dad, Heather, Trey and I spent Thanksgiving Day in Collinsville with my mom's side of the family. Kristen, Rob, and Henry spent the night at my parents' Thursday night, and we had my dad's side of the family Thanksgiving dinner Friday night at my parents' house. My mom totally outdid herself (as usual) on the food and decor. Look at the tables below...don't they look better than any restaurant?

My pants definitely fit a little tighter today. :)

at my parents' house

at my aunt and uncle's house in Collinsville

I hope you all got to spend time with your families and eat lots of yummy food like I did!

PRICELESS.

I know, I know...this is the 2nd sign I've posted today, but when I saw this one this afternoon, how could I NOT share it?

I'm sure most of you heard about the incident with some of the Ole Miss football players. Is it bad that I laughed after reading about this? I laughed even harder when I was driving down Highway 12 in Starkville today and saw this sign in front of the Holiday Inn.

Genius.

P.S. Trace-I'm totally expecting to receive a lengthy comment from you regarding this post, as you seem to be the only Ole Miss fan who reads my blog.

GO DAWGS! :)

need bacon?

Does anybody else find this HILARIOUS? (and rather SICK!)

...as seen at a fast food restaurant that I fortunately came upon while driving to Tuscaloosa (no, I didn't stop in for a big bacon and fries, as TEMPTING as that sounds :) ).

more great gift ideas!

Last week I posted a list of my favorite things, hoping to offer a few Christmas gift ideas for you. Well, get excited...I have more! I was thrilled to see my Real Simple magazine waiting for me in the mailbox when I got home from school yesterday. I look forward to getting it every month, especially when a holiday is nearing! There's an excellent section on gift ideas in the magazine, and in the back of the magazine, there's an entire section of websites so your shopping can be made easier. Don't stress out about not having the time to go shopping, take a look at some of these websites for fabulous ideas and you might find just what you want!

-Letter Perspectives- this one is great and very unique. Here, you'll find photos of everyday objects that are shaped like the letters of the alphabet. You can create your very own wall art to spell and look however you wish. As you can see, the picture here spells "Peace." How cool is that? (Of course, if you're wanting to spell out a name as long as "Tomlinson," you may want to rethink it, as I'm sure 9 letters would be a little pricey!)

-Strawberry Luna- there's a section in the magazine especially for kids, and that's where I came across this. While the site has posters and prints for any age, they also have these adorable alphabet prints, which would be so cute in a kid's room. This one says "L is for Ladybug." Other examples are "D is for Dog," "G is for Giraffe," etc. Precious.

-Jack and Lulu- this site features framed monogrammed prints with 18 patterns available. I love these and think this would be a fabulous gift for any female. Oh, and they're only $50 each, which I don't think is too bad, especially since that's including the frame!

-Other People's Love Letters - This is a book that contains 150 love letters that 'you were never meant to see.' I don't know about you, but I'm intrigued. I love a little cheesiness! In the magazine, this book is advertised for $23, but on the website, it's marked down to $15. 30. I'd love to take a little sneak peak inside this sappy book! Maybe I should get this as a little Christmas happy for myself. :) (Don't worry, MSKS, I'm not getting this for you! haha).

There are DOZENS of more websites and gift ideas in this month's Real Simple, but these are a few of my favorites! :)

Happy Shopping!