Just Another Day

When You Least Expect It

2012-02-16T11:02:00.000-06:00

Tuesday night I went to get my oil changed after work. I went to my normal Jiffy Lube and walked into the waiting area with my book and planner and picked my seat. There was an older gentleman standing at the counter eating popcorn. I opened my book and started reading about Lisbeth Salander being rushed to the hospital (3rd installment of the The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo series). Popcorn Man has not scooted closer to me and I was thinking. "Why are you standing so close to me and please don't talk to me." As they ALWAYS do, the Jiffy Boy comes in and says, "Miss Heather, this is your air filter. This is the air you are breathing in your car. As you can see it is dirty and you are not breathing clean air. I can replace it for $29.99." My reply, as always, "Yeah I know, I am going home to my parents house this weekend and my dad can just replace it for me."

I was so lying. I am not going home this weekend and my dad is not replacing my air filter. While I probably should replace my air filter, there is no way I am paying Jiffy Boy $29.99 to do it.

But here is where it got interesting. Popcorn Man looks and me and says, "I hope your dad knows how privileged he must be to still be changing your air filter. I lost my daughter to a drunk driver and I would give anything to change her air filter."

I replied with "I am so sorry to hear that." He goes on to say that she was killed 14 years ago. He showed me her senior picture that he carries in his wallet. Her name was Nancy and they adopted her when she was 30 days old. He went on to say that being her father was the greatest joy he had in life. We had a nice talk and for the first time, I didn't want my oil change to go so quickly. He paid for his car, and as he was walking out, he handed me his business card and said, "Please tell your father how proud I am that he raised you to be a polite young lady. And I hope he gets unending joy when he gets to change your air filter."

Best 15 minutes in a tiny Jiffy Lube waiting area that I will ever experience.

Valentine's Day Ramblings

2012-02-14T09:35:00.000-06:00

Today is the day of love. And you know what I love? Snack day at work. We have these days about 3 times a year and everyone brings food and puts it in the kitchen and you just graze all day. My office is right next door to the kitchen. Awesome. I made lemon cake balls. Note to self: do not start that process at 8:30 at night. Unless you want to feel like sticking a fork in your eye because you are so tired and want to go to bed but those stupid cake balls still need to cool.

Did anyone see the reveal of the new Sports Illustrated cover? Kate Upton won the honor and they put her in the tiniest bikini ever. I mean the bottom of the bikini is almost non-existent. I bet she didn't indulge in snack day at work before shooting that picture.

Someone brought the most delicious dip today. Tabouli+cream cheese. Heavenly.
And believe it or not, while I am eating a small place of this dip, I am also looking at the menu for the place Kyle is taking me for lunch and picking out what I want. In my defense, I read somewhere that this helps you make smarter, healthier choices and you are less likely to make a spur of the moment choice when you get there.

Here is the recipe for the lemon cake balls.
Here is the recipe for the wonderful dish I made Sunday night.
Here is the recipe for what I wish I was drinking right now.

Happy love day!

Currently Loving

2012-02-08T10:13:00.000-06:00

Thanks to Elaina I had to check out Old Navy yesterday and see what new items they have. While I often put items into my virtual shopping bag (I have 12 items in my bag as we speak), I rarely hit check out. Here is what is in my cart right now:

Striped Dolman(you know I love me some stripes): $24.99


Button Sleeve 3/4 pullover: $24.94

My all time favorite short in colors! $19.94

Back in the Swing of Things

2012-02-07T10:28:00.000-06:00

I finally feel like I can get back into my normal schedule starting today! After almost 2 weeks of feeling off, I went to the gym last night and made my weekly lunch dish while watching the Thunder and all feels right in the world. This past Friday, my brother and dad took Lauren and Allison to a Father-Daughter dance at Remington Park in OKC. The girls got all dressed up, hair done by mom and nails painted and were ready to hit the town and cut a rug on the dance floor.

Pappy and Allison at the start of the night

Pappy and Allison at the end of the night

I drove up to Edmond the next day to watch the girls play basketball. From what I have seen so far, they are the best team and actually know they need to dribble the ball! Their good friend Derek came to watch them, and brought a sign. Could be the cutest thing I have seen in a long time.

On Sundays, I usually pull up my Pinterest board and see what recipe looks good, and what I think I can stand to eat Mon-Fri for lunch. This week it was a beefy cheesy enchilada stack. I used low carb tortillas and only used a portion of the refried beans that it called for. I baked this puppy last night and cannot wait for 12:30 so I can go eat it. You can find the original recipe here.

1/2 lb ground beef- seasoned with taco seasoning
can of refried beans- I used about 1/2 cup
1 small can green chilis
5-6 flour tortillas- or corn or low carb..whatever floats your boat
1 can enchilada sauce
8 oz bag of Mexican cheese- I like the kind with Philadelphia cream cheese added

Brown the meat, and then start stacking. The amount of toppings will depend on how many tortillas you use.
The best part about this recipe is that there is no wrong way to do it. Bake at 400 for 40 min.

Before the baking

Look at all those layers

Cheese and enchilada sauce make me happy

Friday Night Blues

2012-02-03T16:39:00.000-06:00

What do I do on a Friday night when my other half is out of town? Nothing is the answer. I have options: I could go to the gym for longer than the 45 min I squeeze in during most days. I could have dinner/drinks with friends. I could run the errands near Woodlands Hills Hell that I have been putting off. I could try a new recipe (wait, I actually might do that). But for some reason, none of that sounds like fun. I literally want to do nothing. I have zero motivation. I don't know if it is because I am out of whack schedule-wise or what.

Kyle has essentially been out of town since last Friday. He did come home for a few days to recover from his hospital visit, but it feels like he has been gone forever. And I know, we aren't married and we don't have to be dependent on each other but it IS different when the person you spend the most time with goes out of town. And you are left to entertain yourself and instead of coming up with an idea you become overwhelmed with the options so you choose nothing. That's were I am.

Also, I am trying to not spend any unnecessary money this paycheck. And doing things costs moolah. Whatever, I may still stop and get a (cheap)bottle o'wine and be besties with the couch and The Help tonight. I plan on getting up early tomorrow and driving to meet the fam in Edmond tomorrow so I really can base my lack of motivation to do anything on that. As for tomorrow night, I have no excuse.

Happy 30th!

2012-02-02T09:08:00.001-06:00

Today is Kyle's 30th birthday! Unfortunately he will be boarding a plane in about 2 hrs to go to Phoenix for his annual sales meeting. I had so many ideas of how I wanted to celebrate his birthday, but that will have to wait until next weekend. I love to be kinda cheesy on birthdays and other holidays, so I got him a birthday balloon yesterday and left his present, card, and balloon out on the kitchen counter when I left for work this morning. My ultimate joy would be for him to tie the balloon to his wrist and walk around the airport with it, but I am fairly certain that won't be happening.

I have been house/dog sitting for Kyle since last weekend (and now through this weekend as well) when he went to Florida to see his family. His trip took a turn for the worse when he threw up in his dad's car on the way back from the airport. He continued to get worse, and by Sunday morning he was in the hospital. He had a bacterial infection in his colon, large intestine and stomach. He said it was the worst 3 days of his life, but after a round of IV antibiotics they let him go home. He was scheduled to fly out the next day and even though the doctor told him not to, he wanted to come home so badly and he didn't want to pay the $500 fare change. He has been improving every day but still isn't back his old self.

Last weekend while he was out of town, I went to A Taste of Tulsa with some friends. The event benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters and one of Kyle's best friends is on the board there so she was involved in the event. It was held at the Tulsa Convention Center and was a beautiful evening. Tons of local restaurants in Tulsa had appetizers, main courses, and desserts and you just grabbed a plate and took whatever you want. It was black tie optional which was fine with me since I will use any excuse to wear fake eyelashes and big earrings.

I was very pleased with my hair that night

I made a low-carb pizza last Sunday and planned on eating for lunch this week. I tend to make something on Sunday and then eat it every.single.day of the week for lunch. Boring but it saves me money and time. I wasn't that pleased with the result, but I don't hate it enough to throw it out.

Crust:

8 oz. package of cream cheese
2 eggs

Beat together and season with garlic powder and pepper. Spray a 9x13 with Pam, bake at 350 for 17 minutes or until the edges are brown.

Let cool for 10 minutes and then top with whatever pizza sauce and toppings you prefer. Bake another 10 min at 400.

The crust is just kind of "spongy". It was worth a shot to try, I suppose. Next time I will maybe just use a whole wheat pizza crust and eat smaller portions so I don't carb myself out.

A little gem I found this week is My Fridge Food and you check the ingredients you have, and it pulls recipes you can make.

Friday night, my dad and brother are taking the two older girls to a Father-Daughter dance. How precious is that?!

Ladies and Gentleman, For Your Entertainment...

2012-01-27T14:25:00.003-06:00

I received 2 videos of Jordyn this week. I love getting pics and videos of my girls so I can see what they are up to in their daily life.

This first video is Jordyn singing "Living on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi. She adds some pretty sweet dance moves to make it her own.

Now, this video is a little different. Bryan titled this email, "The Joy of Parenthood." We all feel this way sometimes, Jordy.

*Disclaimer: No child was hurt during the filming of this :)

Great Deal

2012-01-25T09:06:00.001-06:00

I posted about statement pieces the other day. I went to my Pinterest, as I do periodically, to see if anything I have pinned is on sale. And I hit the jackpot today.

I scored this:

Silver/Black Collar Necklace

Here is the deal I got:

Regular Price: $28.50
Sale Price: $19.97
50% off: 9.98
Extra 15%: 8.48 (Code # 68537)
Tax
Free Shipping
Grand Total: $9.20

Can't beat that!

There is also a code for $10 off an order but I didn't spend enough (Code # 39964)

29 Years Young

2012-01-24T12:35:00.000-06:00

On Sunday, Jan 22 I turned 29 years old. I spent the weekend celebrating myself. Friday night, Kyle and I had a delicious home cooked steak dinner, followed by watching The Firm (new favorite TV show) and then I baked my birthday cake. And I even wore a cute pink polka dot apron. Real Betty Crocker right here!

Sat morning started early and cold with a trip to the dog park, then lunch at Charleston's with the girls, shopping, and coffee. We had such a great day, and we all got to love on Elaina and Amanda who came in from OKC. We browsed at Must Stash on Brookside. Cute little store with great prices! We sat at Starbuck's and had coffee and chatted about how we wish we could do this on a Tuesday in our yoga pants and not have real jobs.

Sat night kicked off with dinner at Mi Cocina with my parents. P.S.- They don't take reservations so get there early if you don't want to wait. Kyle wouldn't allow me to take my birthday cake to the restaurant ( he was appalled that I would even consider that) so they didn't get to taste the delish treat I baked.

We headed home to prepare for another birthday house party. I did the same thing last year and really enjoyed just getting to party at the house instead of taking a huge crowd of people out somewhere.

I got some really adorable, great birthday gifts and had one of the best days I have had in a long time. Sunday I lounged all day. Took a 2.5 hr nap and ate all the carbs I wanted. It was glorious. My present from Kyle was finally completed last night with a trip to the Apple store and getting the new iPhone 4S. Siri is awesome, if you are thinking of getting her.

Kyle's 30th is on Feb 2nd and I am wracking my brain on what to get him and what to plan. He, b/c he is a boy, doesn't think we really need to celebrate. Well, too bad cause we are going to celebrate. I just don't know how or when. He gets to go to Florida this weekend to see his family, and love on little Henry.

Mission Impossible

2012-01-19T08:46:00.000-06:00

This post is about why I should have been a secret agent. It all came to me last night in the middle of seeing Mission Impossible with Kyle. I quickly began telling Kyle several reasons why I should have been some type of secret agent. Here they are:

1. I can rock a cocktail dress.

The female agent always gets the job of seducing some type of rich foreign guy. She must go to a fancy party, wear a beautiful dress, lure him away from the crowd, pull out a gun that is strapped to her thigh and make him give her important information.

2. I can be aggressive.

The female agent always gets into fights. Sometimes with other attractive females. And her hair is usually down and she has on a short dress or form fitting clothing and she can kick the crap out of someone twice her size.

3. I can run.

Agents always have to run. I run a lot on the treadmill and do sprints and incline so I would be great when it came time to run down the terrorist.

4. I can use my gymnastics moves.

I couldn't find a picture to describe this but you all know when there comes a time when the best possible move is to do a somersault, usually behind a couch, with gun in hand.

5. I can swim.

Cars always crash into the water.

Those are my top five reasons. There are also several reasons why I would not be a great female agent, but those don't really need to be addressed right now. And honestly, I really just want to be cast as a female agent along side my long time love Tom Cruise.

Alright, alright. I'll stop with the pictures. But he is just so cute. Say what you want about him, but I have loved him for as long as I can remember. And no one, I mean no one, can run like he does in movies. I heard he was filming a movie in Pittsburgh recently and you shouldn't be surprised that I tried to convince Kyle we should take a weekend trip there so I could stalk him.

Christmas in Dallas

2012-01-17T16:28:00.000-06:00

This past weekend we celebrated Christmas down in big D town. Even if I wasn't getting late Christmas and early birthday presents, I would still have loved this weekend b/c we just get to spend great time all together.

My cousin's son, Conrad, celebrated his 6th birthday at his dad's new art gallery and since we were all in town, we took the girls and headed out for some birthday fun.

Wearing her new jacket and my new birthday scarf from Katie

Saturday evening we opened presents and then relaxed by playing the original Mario Brothers on Nintendo and playing Bezzerwizzer.

I got home in time on Sunday to make a soup to have for lunch this week. I was too lazy to take a picture but here is the recipe below if you would like to try it:

Chicken and Black Bean Soup

1/2 rotisserie chicken

3 cans chicken broth

2 cans black beans- not drained

1 can petite diced tomatoes- not drained

1 small onion diced

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 tablespoon cumin

1 teaspoon garlic powder

2 tablespoon olive oil

celery- optional

Limes

1 cup salsa of choice- I used Pace Medium

Cilantro- optional (although I can't fathom why you wouldn't use this!)

Sour cream for topping

In a large heavy soup pot, saute onions in olive oil 3-5 minutes, until soft but not browned. Add the ground cumin, chile powder, and garlic and saute about 2 minutes more.

Add the chicken stock, tomatoes, and salsa, and simmer 10 minutes. Add black beans and chicken and simmer 15-20 minutes more. While the soup simmer, wash, dry and chop enough fresh cilantro to make 1 cup chopped cilantro. and squeeze enough limes to make 3 T juice.

After 15-20 minutes, add the chopped cilantro and simmer 5 minutes, then add lime juice and cook 2-3 minutes more. Serve hot with fresh limes to squeeze into the soup, with sour cream and additional chopped cilantro to sprinkle on top if desired.

(I know this text is different and I can't figure out why and it won't change so just deal with it.)

On Sunday, I turn 29. I am entering the last year of my twenties. I have mixed feelings about it. So in order to deal with those feelings (or not deal with them), I plan on drinking peach bellinis and making cake. My own birthday cake. And I am not ashamed of it because I like strawberry cake and I want to use my new cake pans and mixer. Paula Deen has a strawberry cake recipe that is sure to deliver. (Sorry about your diabetes diagnosis, Paula!) And I am going to make birthday popcorn. Sounds weird, but just take a look at it.

So, happy birthday week to me! Lunch and shopping with my girlfriends Sat, taking Sophie and Jackson to the doggie park, dinner with my mom and dad and Kyle at Mi Cocina (Mambo Taxi, here I come!).

Statement Pieces

2012-01-11T10:38:00.000-06:00

Over a year ago, I purchased a Vera Wang statement necklace from Kohl's. I got it on sale, big time. I think it cost me about $16 and I got free shipping (you know I love me some free shipping!).

Here is my beloved statement necklace, working its magic:

Every since I bought that necklace, I have been in love with it. It brings some bling bling to a regular outfit. I only have 1 other necklace that I would call "semi-statement" and I wear it often as well.

Here is my "semi-statement" necklace, bringing color into a basic outfit:

While I do wear color often, I also love good neutrals but want to jazz them up a bit. Below are some "statement pieces" that I would love to have in my closet:


Leopard flats: Kohl's $14.97

Leopard sandal: Payless $19.99

Black collar necklace: Christopher and Banks $28.50


Green ring: Mango $11.99

Bamboleo Necklace: Stella and Dot $228.00

Ok, ok that last necklace is way way way over my price limit but it's always nice to have dreams in life.

Gauguin Strands: Bauble Bar $82.00

There are hundreds of other pieces I could include, but I will stop myself here.

Going to see The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo tonight and I cannot wait. Kyle and I both read the book (I just started the last one in the series) and we loved it. It is 2 hrs and 40 min and I usually fall asleep in movies but I have a feeling this one will keep me wide awake.

Happy Humpday, readers!

Best Pictures of 2011

2012-01-10T10:15:00.000-06:00

I did this same post for my favorite pics of 2010. So, without further adieu, here are my favorite pics from 2011:

January 2011: Sammi helping me celebrate my 28th birthday

February 2011: Old roomies celebrating Elaina's birthday

March 2011: Candid shot of Kyle wearing a tutu at Allison's birthday party

April 2011: All of my girls after Lauren's birthday dinner

May 2011: Lauren and Allison at their triathlon

June 2011: Katie and (not pictured Kristin b/c I didn't get one of us 3 ) came to visit me in Tulsa

July 2011: All the girls at Elaina's going away party

August 2011: Heather and Kyle at a wedding in Edwards, CO


September 2011: Jordyn's pure bliss while playing at Lauren's soccer game


October 2011: Allison's self-portrait that I discovered on my camera


November 2011: All the ladies at Joe's awesome retirement party

December 2011: In Pittsburgh, ready for the rehearsal dinner

A New Year: 2012

2012-01-05T11:02:00.001-06:00

Well, here we are 5 days into a new year and everyone is posting blogs, Facebook, tweets and whatnot about what they plan to accomplish in 2012. I have never really been much of one to write down my goals unless my boss asks me to do so before a review. And then those are strictly work-related. Kyle and I took a trip over NYE and I had lots of time to think of the things I wish to improve on, and the things I would like to accomplish.

Here goes:

1. Try a new restaurant every month.
2. Work out at least one day of the weekend and/or get up early for the gym one day a week.
3. Iron/steam work clothes so I can actually wear that button up that is hanging in the back of my closet.
4. Utilize the dry cleaner more to keep favorite clothes in good condition.
5. Use my new weekly/monthly planner to stay more organized.
6. Stop letting the petty things bother me at work.
7. Buy new running shoes.
8. Use my $100 Southwest voucher before it expires in July.
9. Learn to utilize more clothes in my closet.
10. Relax, and let life happen.
11. Take Sophie for a walk more often.
12. Figure out a breakfast routine for work mornings.
13. Buy a new cell phone.
14. Grocery shop once a week.
15. Pay off my credit card. (Just when I got close, Christmas hit)
16. Rent or to go a movie once a month.
17. Use my crockpot more.
18. Try a cardio class at the gym.
19. Deep clean my house.
20. Hang pictures from Paris that I printed in 2008. Yes, 2008.
21. Learn to play tennis and golf.
22. Replace my windshield.

December

2011-12-28T12:18:00.000-06:00

December has been full of awesomeness. Yes, I know that is not a word but it is what I wanted to use to describe this month. This month started out with a huge Bedlam win! The next day we attended a lovely Christmas party at the Oaks Country Club where Kyle, Tyler and Austin are members. Tyler's wife Lilia and Austin's girlfriend Christy are both great golfers. I am the only non-golfer so I sip club specials and read by the pool. Although I feel that time is ending because Lilia and Christy are determined to make me into a golfer.

The weekend of the Dec 8th, we had our annual Christmas book exchange in OKC. I got The Help and plan to start reading in on the plane tomorrow. The next weekend was a Christmas party at Tyler and Lilia's and our kickball party. Both were a rockin' good time (you like that saying?).

Then came Christmas. We spent Christmas day at my brother's house. Watching the girls excitement over Santa and what he brought is one of the joys in life. I look forward to the day my children will do the same. The big girls were already awake when we got there (we left Tulsa at the crack of dawn!) and Jordyn came out looking adorable with her crazy bed head. We unloaded our presents and let the girls see what Santa brought them. Then we had breakfast and went to church for a Christmas morning service. We came home and prepared lunch and started handing out the rest of the gifts. I am so lucky to have a mom and a sister in law that give great gifts! Erin got me the cutest OSU shirt that I can wear in Pittsburgh this weekend during the bowl game! I was back home at Kyle's by dinner time and we cooked a cute little Christmas dinner and opened presents in the dining room floor by the tree. I was exhausted since I stayed up til 1 AM the night before and my alarm had gone off at 5:50 AM.
Kyle got new carpet on Monday so we cleared out all the rooms first thing that morning and then went upstairs to the spare bedroom and watched a movie while the carpet was installed. I finished the Christmas break with dinner with Amanda. We tried to go to this new place downtown, Edward Delk's, but it was closed. Then we went to Mi Cocina, my new obsession, and they were slammed. So we walked across to White Owl, which was also packed.

Back to work yesterday, and I used a Groupon for a shellac. Let's hope it lasts longer than the last one did.

Tomorrow we board yet another plane for Pittsburgh. This long weekend in Pittsburgh will consist of massages for me and Kyle, rehearsal dinner, wedding, brunch after wedding, OSU bowl game. I have made my packing list, detailed by outfits worn for occasions. I will have to wear a coat to the airport cause there is no way 2 coats will fit in my bag. Kyle is so excited about the wedding, all of his high school and college friends will be there. I'm also excited about the wedding, but also about the food and champagne :)

Happy New Year, blog friends. See you in 2012!

Sullivan Christmas Party: the golfing ladies!

Pajama Kickball Party

Billy, Claybrook and Brandon's Christmas card photo

The mother of twins!

Scooter and leg warmers

Evil Knievil on a bike

Scooter girl


Jordyn's new backpack

You know this won't be complete without food pics/recipes!

Hershey's Chocolate Cake

Christmas Eve dinner by Kyle: Buffalo chicken salad topped with fries!


Kyle grew up eating these every Christmas but his mom is "out of the buckeye business" so I fulfilled the request.

I also made a breakfast casserole but was so tired by this point that I forgot to take a pic. You can find the recipe here.
Oh, and I made this dip:

Chili Cream Cheese Dip

1 can Hormel Chili with or without beans

1 block cream cheese

2 dollops of sour cream

Fritos

Heat everything up, mix together, serve with Fritos. So easy. It tastes a lot like the skillet queso at Chili's, if you have ever had that.

Shopping, Wrapping, Cooking, Baking

2011-12-21T10:22:00.003-06:00

Hey everyone! 4 days until Christmas and I finally have all of my shopping finished! I need to wrap everything but I plan on doing that when I get off work on Friday. They let us know that we get to leave at 2 on Friday, which is a huge deal because most of the time they keep it secret until 30 minutes before they let us go. I greatly appreciate them telling us ahead of time that we get off early.

I have felt under the weather for the past week. I am not sure exactly what it is, but I want it to go away. I got into bed at 8:45 last night and was dead asleep when Kyle called me at 10:15, went right back to sleep and slept all night. Hopefully that great sleep will put me on the mend. Also, I would really like to visit the gym sometime soon since I will be in a strapless dress in a little over a week.

This past weekend was filled with activities including lots of food. I made cranberry cream cheese dip, spicy pretzels, corn dip, and peanut butter fudge. Everything turned out great! We attended a Christmas party at Tyler and Lilia's Friday night and played all kinds of couples games and we had enough food to eat until Spring Break of 2012. Saturday night we went to the Christmas Kickball Pajama party. I have some great pics from this but left my camera sitting on my dresser. Kyle and I both wore adult size pajama onesies and he accessorized with a terry cloth robe and slippers. Most comfortable party ever.

We are headed to my brother's house for Christmas this year. I always love spending this time with them and seeing the girls enjoy Christmas. Next week, I will only work two and a half days and then we are going to Pittsburgh to enjoy NYE at a wedding. I got some great earrings from Bauble Bar (fuchsia boho drop) for the wedding.

I have no idea what the food plan is for Christmas day but I want to make this dip: chili cream cheese dip and serve with the always tasty Fritos. Yum.

And I just had a light bulb go off in my head for a recipe I could try. Make my super easy peanut butter fudge, and then dip into chocolate almond bark for my own twist on Reese's. Oh my...now I have to make this.

Easy Peanut Butter Fudge

1/2 cup butter

2 cups brown sugar

1/2 cup evaporated milk

1 cup peanut butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 cups confectioners' sugar

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and milk. Bring to a boil and boil until your thermometer reaches 234 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 4 minutes), stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Stir in peanut butter and vanilla. Pour over confectioners' sugar in a large mixing bowl. Beat until smooth. Add the rest of the 5 oz can of evaporated milk if the mixture is too dry. Scoop into 8x8 inch dish and press into form with a spatula. Chill until firm and cut into squares.

Mine actually came out a little oily, and I am not sure if it was the extra evaporated milk or what.Maybe I can try just adding a little regular milk to the mixture next time. But the mixture was definitely too dry once I mixed it with the powdered sugar.

Spicy Pretzels

What You Need
15 oz Bag of Small Pretzels
6 oz Canola or Vegetable Oil
1 pkg Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing
2 tsp Cayenne Pepper (may use less and then add more if you want them spicier)
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1.5 tsp Lemon Pepper

Directions
Mix together seasoning and oil. Place pretzels in large ziploc bag (the gallon size works for one batch), add seasoning mix, and toss periodically for 12-24 hours before serving.

Merry Christmas!

Elf Yourself

2011-12-16T11:31:00.000-06:00

Bored at work this morning:

Heather and Kyle as elves

Lauren, Allison, Jordyn as elves

Merry Christmas!

Basketball

2011-12-13T16:59:00.000-06:00

This past weekend we got the treat of watching my nieces play their first game of basketball. And let me tell you, it was a treat! We started off the day with lunch at Red's Southern Diner , a newly opened diner located at Danforth and Kelly and it was delish. There is nothing healthy about it, so don't go if you want to eat lightly. There are 7 menu items to choose from and it comes family style with all the sides. The food was great. I ordered the chicken pot pie and it was the best I have ever had. My favorite part was the massive amount of fried okra I shoved in my face.

After lunch, Grammy and Pappy and I went to watch Lauren's tennis lesson. She is quite the little athlete! And she looks so cute and feminine and graceful while she does it. Below are 2 short videos I took towards the end of her lesson where she got to play a match with another girl. I didn't want to make her nervous with the camera so they are short.

Then we were off to basketball. Both of the girls were so nervous and we kept telling them they would do great! I didn't get any video of the basketball, dang it! I was busy watching and playing with Jordy. We were racing from wall to wall and she won everytime :)
Anyway, Allison had a sheer look of terror when she stepped foot on the court. She was wringing her little hands and looking back and forth to Erin and Bryan. Lauren and Allison both dribbled the ball better than all of the other girls on the court. Lauren even scored a basket! Allison did this awesome quick feet move when she went to defend her girl. It was the cutest thing ever.

This weekend I plan to make at least 5 recipes of Pinterest. I have 3 parties to attend and I need to take food to 2 of them. I am hopefully going to knock out some Christmas shopping tonight and maybe even get some wrapping complete. Seriously, where does the time go?

Big 12 Champs

2011-12-07T10:18:00.002-06:00

It has taken me entirely too long to post about my alma mater being Big XII Champs for the first time EVER!!!!!! This has been the best season of OSU football in the history of OSU football. And I am so so so glad that we had season tickets this year. (Thank you, Mom and Dad!)

So Bedlam was last Saturday night and the weather forecast really put a damper on any plans we had. We wanted to go up early and eat in Stilly and get the whole "game day expereince" but it was raining. So we ate in Tulsa and then went straight to the game. Side note: I wore running tights for warmth and comfort and it was the best decision of my life. I may never wear real pants to a game again.
I was nervous all week about this game. Everyone knows we have been dominated by OU for years. And while we were clearly much better this year, anything can happen when it comes to Bedlam. But not this year, folks.
Walking up to the stadium I said to Kyle, "I know this isn't gonna be a blowout, I just want to win." Man, was I wrong? I won't go over the game in detail. If you want that, you can visit Pistols Firing Blog.
We took a fairly early lead and just kinda ran with it. I didn't relax until the 4th qtr when it was clear that we were going to win. And then the excitement set in. We had been yelling and cheering and jumping up and down all game. Students starting filing down the stadium to rush the field. And then I saw my 34yr old brother leave his wife and head towards the field. Yes, he and a friend rushed the field. Hilarious. It was an unforgettable night. Here are some pics from Kyle's iPhone:

Taking the field

Fans rushing the field

Dad, Mom, Erin, Me. Pistols Firing. Go Pokes. Bedlam victory is ours!

I have always been proud to be a Poke, but this season took it to a whole new level.

Some say we got screwed in the BCS standings Sunday night. We ended up #2, behind Bama. Which means we don't get a shot at the national title. We will play in the Fiesta Bowl on Jan 2 against Standford.

Best part of the Bedlam game besides winning: Not hearing Boomer Sooner 50 times. They (whoever they is) did a great job of playing speaker music or talking, or our band played, or whatever needed to happen happened the very minute they tried to play that awful song.

Cyber Monday Deals

2011-12-01T08:59:00.000-06:00

I love online shopping. And usually the only thing keeping me from purchasing everything that I put into my bag is the shipping. But on Cyber Monday, free shipping is often offered with no minimum purchase. Here is what I scored:

ASOS Fuchsia Clutch for $16 and free shipping!

*Gap Lambswool cable sweater for $21

* I actually got the Gap sweater last night after work. They were having 50% off sweaters and I had a $10 reward that was about to expire. $59.95 sweater for $21....ahthankyou! This cable knit, jeggings, and my beloved Steve Madden boots will make the perfect outfit.

I also ordered some cheap jewelry from Forever 21 but it is all sold out now so I can't pull pics from the website. I bought bangles in all different colors (kind of like this) so I can layer them with regular bangles and a watch. I also bought these earrings and tall gray boot socks that will show out of the top of my boots.

I wanted this vest:

Cable knit vest

With a black undershirt and my black skinny belt to tie it all together. So cute. It's on sale online but not in the store so I am just gonna watch it and see if I can get a deal on it after Christmas.
Kyle and I have decided to not buy each other presents this year and save money for a trip for his 30th birthday which he will celebrate in Feb. Although the money should probably be saved for my 30th birthday in Jan of 2013 cause I plan on doing something epic. Yes, I am already thinking of my 30th birthday trip when I am still 28.

Shameless Plug

2011-11-28T12:28:00.000-06:00

I have mentioned the site Dear Wendy on here before, and over the weekend she published an article I wrote for her while she is on maternity leave. Click here to read my post. I don't think you will be surprised at the topic I chose to write on...seems I have a little too much experience in this area! Despite a few commenters that think my article was too cliche, I hope it gets good feedback.

Soon my friend Elaina will be featured on her site and I will link her article as soon as Wendy posts it.

Joe's Retirement Party

2011-11-22T10:33:00.000-06:00

Last Saturday, Kyle and I headed down to Dallas for my uncle's retirement party. Surprise retirement party. My aunt has been planning this for months, and was even able to keep it a surprise from him although family members had to come into town and stay at their house. She told Joe that Erin was receiving an award from some dental association, which would explain why my whole family was there.

The party was held at my cousin's husband's art gallery in downtown Dallas. She had it catered and also used the same DJ from Katie's wedding. We all assembled around 5:45 and Joe arrived a little after 6 to a loud "Surprise!" from about 50 people, including family and colleagues. He was genuinely surprised! We ate mexican appetizers, drank margaritas from a machine (best rental ever!) and ate a delicious Arkansas Razorback cake. Once we got some food and drink, it was time to tear up the dance floor. I loved this DJ at Katie's wedding and was so glad to see her back again. She played some great tunes and everyone danced...even my mom and my 78 year old grandma! Kyle's dance partner was Allison. All night. She would barely let him take a breather. When she got home, she told her Aunt Monica that she "danced her face off" and that Kyle taught her some "funky new moves."

"Offended"

2011-11-16T11:28:00.000-06:00

Several times, I have mentioned a site I frequent called The Frisky. While this site is entertaining and links all kinds of articles, they also find a way to drive me nuts with all of their "offended" "feminist" talk.

For many years, I have dislike the word "offended". I think it is misused and overused. Maybe it is just because I don't tend to get "offended" very often. Don't get me wrong, there are plenty of offensive things happening in the world. I just think our society has a gone a little overboard. Public figures, celebs, political candidates can barely open their mouth anymore with a group of people claiming they are "offended" by their comments. Here is a story that drives me nuts. PETA is mad at Mario Brothers (yes, the video game) because Mario wears a raccoon suit and has special powers and they think it send the message that it is ok to wear fur. Story here.
Come on, PETA. I seriously doubt that the people that are playing Mario Brothers are thinking, "well I should go get a fur coat made out of raccoon because Mario wears one in the game". Just seems so over the top to me.

There is a particular writer on The Frisky that finds something "offensive" in almost every article she reads. I realize that is her job as a feminist blogger, and maybe I should just stop visiting the site, or stop reading her stories. But I just can't help but get annoyed at almost every one of her articles. She once posted a link to an article about a college women's soccer team that had won the championship for the first time in school history and in her own comments in italics next to the article said "Can someone explain the importance of this to me?"

Are you kidding me?! You gripe constantly about how women aren't treated equally, and them make an idiot comment like that on a story that you linked and should clearly make sense to you, if you had a brain. (end rant). Anyway, she got grilled in the comments section, which I was happy about.

Now onto the next. Here are some recipes I plan on trying during the Thanksgiving holiday.

I plan on taking these to Katie and Louie this weekend:

Cake Batter Cookies

I making this for work on Friday. Already made it once and it was divine. And easy.

Pumpkin Crunch Cake

How festive does this sound?! I can't wait to try this next week

Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

We are headed to Dallas this Sat to attend a surprise party. More details on that after we attend. Friday night we will be watching OSU stomp Iowa State. We are staying with my love Katie and her hubby Louie on Sat night. I wish she lived closer so I could see her all the time. Sunday Kyle's parents arrive and will be here through Thanksgiving. Looking forward to lots of family time this weekend and next week!

Pittsburgh Steelers

2011-11-10T09:22:00.000-06:00

Last weekend, Kyle and I went to Pittsburgh. His dad scored us tickets to the Steelers vs Ravens game, and his brother and sister-in-law came in from Montana with their bundle of joy, Henry. I have posted a pic or 2 of Henry on here, but let me tell you, he is so much cuter in person. And he has the best little baby personality. He is so easy going and relaxed. Not one ounce of stranger anxiety either, which was great for me since I wanted to get all up in his face and kiss on him and be his best friend.

We arrived just after midnight and his parents picked us up and carted us back to their house, where I was happy to find a wide awake baby. Kyle gave him some hugs and kisses since he had not seen him since he was born in June and passed the little fella on to me. After a quick midnight snack since we never got to eat dinner, we were off to bed. I woke up around 2 AM wandering the bedroom trying to find out where I was.

Friday we had lunch with Kyle's best friend Dante and then went to a Sip and See party for Henry at a family friends house. After that, we went to a neighborhood called Shady Side to meet up with Dante and his wife Erin.

Saturday we lounged around and watched college football, took a nap, and then showered and met up with the rest of the crew for dinner at Lidia's in downtown Pittsburgh. This meal was 3.5 hours long and Henry did not make one peep. Unfortunately, dinner was during the OSU game, so I had to check it on my phone every few minutes. After dinner we went to Duquesne Incline and took a cable car up and down the hill to see downtown Pittsburgh all lit up at night. It was really cool, and there is so much history at this site. I was bummed I didn't have my camera so I had to take a mediocre iPhone pic.

Kyle and I went across the street after the Incline and caught the last 10 min of the OSU game in a tiny little hole in the wall bar on a TV that my grandma probably had in the 50's. What a nail biter ending! I'm sure those Pittsburgh people were glad to see me go once the game was over.

Sunday we woke up and had a great breakfast at the Gatewood house. The time change gave us an extra hour of sleep and I woke up feeling great at 8 AM. We lounged around til early afternoon and then got ready to go cheer on the Steelers. The game was at 8:20 and we got to the tailgate a little before 5. Justin, Kyle's brother, asked me what the main difference was between OSU tailgates and Steelers tailgates. My answer: OSU tailgates are prettier. The people, the setting, the food, the clothing. Steelers fans all wear jerseys.
We went into the game around 7:40, and it was pure madness about 10 min after we got in. Kyle was so excited. He screamed like a nut during the whole game and was a sad little puppy after they lost the game with 10 sec left to go.

Monday we ate at the famous Pamela's. I ignored my low-carb lifestyle during the whole vacation and ordered their famous crepe pancakes. OMG, they were so good. Thin and had crispy edges. Mary Lou, Kyle's mom, and I both ate the edges off of our pancakes and left the middle. Kyle and I caught our place back to Tulsa at 3 and came home exhausted and Kyle had no voice left from his screaming at the game.

I am finally recovered from the trip since I got my back completely unpacked last night. My laundry still isn't done but I assume the laundry fairy will take care of that.

Kickball finals tonight! Mom's birthday Sat and OSU vs Tech at 11 AM. 9-0 baby and ranked #2 for the first time ever!!!!!

Downtown Pittsburgh from The Incline

Henry taking a Sunday nap

Just settled into our seats

The crowd coming in the gates

Tailgating with Stacy and Kyle

Shady Side with Dante and Teara (Erin's bestie)

Dinner conversation and Lidia's

Erin and Teara

Heinz Field

The entire tailgate group

Rolled out of bed and grabbed lunch. She's so cute!

Stacy and I before the game

The Steel Man!

Frosted Mini Wheat

2011-11-02T08:53:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, we went to Bryan and Erin's to watch the girls play soccer and watch the Cowboys beat the Longhorns. Jordyn stole the show, of course, by being 2 years old and adorable.

Recently, she has started calling her stuffed Spongebob Square Pants "Frosted Mini Wheat". Erin said she just called him that one day, and she is right, he does kinda look like a frosted mini wheat.

The best part about this was how she said it. Not only is her tiny voice adorable, she gets this really high voice inflection when she says "mini". Below is a video, not quite her best version of "Frosted Mini Wheat" but it will work.

Kyle and I leave tomorrow after work for Pittsburgh. Meeting his 5 month old nephew Henry is on the top of my priority list. We will be going to the Steelers/Ravens game Sunday night, which I am sure will be an experience like no other.

Since my dad is on his annual 2 week hunting expedition, Bryan and Erin are going with Mom to the OSU vs K State game in Stillwater. Can you bellieve the Cowboys are 8-0????!!!

And to end on a note of adorable-ness, here are my gals dressed up for Halloween.

Hotties of the World Series

2011-10-25T09:00:00.000-05:00

You can all thank me later for this post. I tweeted several nights ago about 2 hotties that are currently fighting for the World Series title, and I thought I should just blog about these fellas.

Whether you are a Cardinals fan (me!) or a Rangers fan, both teams are bringing some cuteness to the field.

I'll start with my personal favorite:


Matt Holliday

Read here to know more about Matty. You should be able to figure out why I love him so.

More World Series hotties:

David Freese

Skip Schumaker


CJ Wilson

Honorable Mention:

Ian Kinsler

Rangers lead the series 3-2, but the Cardinals are definitely ahead in the looks department :)

Cold Weather

2011-10-20T12:16:00.000-05:00

We have had some unusual weather in Tulsa lately. Last Sunday was 90 degrees while I was playing flag football, and today is said 39 degrees when I got in my car to go to work. I have slowly been transitioning some cooler weather items into my closet. I have also been running a newly found Ebay business out of my guest bedroom, but that is for a whole different post.

Kyle and I are headed to Pittsburgh 2 weeks from today and we are going to the Steelers vs Ravens game on Sunday night, in Pittsburgh, outside stadium, right on the river. Chilly? I'd say so. This made me realize that I don't really have much of a warm casual coat to wear to these types of things. So, instead of going shopping and searching for the right jacket, I took the easy way out when Old Navy offered 30% off your online outerwear order today. And thanks to Ebates, I scored 2% cash back on this order.

Here is what I ordered:

Frost Free Shawl Neck Coat

Price: $49 with free shipping

I can always return it for a full refund if I don't like it. But it looks cozy and warm and cute.

Cooking with Heather

2011-10-12T11:37:00.000-05:00

I wanted to share a few recipes with my readers. Instead of sweets, this go 'round will feature a breakfast dish and a tasty low-carb dinner recipe.

First up: delicious egg muffins. I eat breakfast at my desk everyday and these babies are perfect for on the go! I ate 2 this morning and shared with my co-worker and got a thumbs up from her.

I adapted the recipe a little from this one. I used:

1 lb regular Jimmy Dean sausage
8 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
1/2 red bell pepper
grated cheese
salt / pepper

Brown the sausage and put into muffin pan. Make sure you spray the pan first.
Whisk together eggs, salt, pepper, milk. Put red pepper on top of sausage, and then pour egg mixture into muffin cups. Top with cheese. Bake for 15 min at 375.

You can use any combo that you like: bacon, sausage, broccoli, green onion, mushroom....

Next time I think I might put some cheese on top of the sausage before I pour the eggs on so I have cheese throughout the muffin cup.

I have been itching to make stuffed bell peppers, and since Kyle is out of town this week it seemed like the perfect chance to try them out. I just used what items I had on hand, and they were great.

Red bell pepper (or whatever color you like)
Black beans
Rice (unless you are carb watching like me)
shredded chicken (I used rotisserie)
taco seasoning
shredded cheese
sour cream
Valentina's hot sauce

Cut top off pepper and clean out the inside. Leave whole, like a bucket, or slice in half like I did. Bake for 10-15 at 325, just enough to soften them a bit.

Take them out and pile on your toppings. Whatever your heart desires. Put them back in the oven at 350 for 15 min.

I topped mine with sour cream and Valentina's. Some pico and guacamole would have made them even better.

Remember Me?

2011-10-10T14:45:00.000-05:00

It has been a while since I last blogged. I have plenty to blog about, but haven't been able to find the time, which is rare.

Here is what has been going on with moi:

Work: Ugh. We switched cell phone providers (from Sprint to AT&T) and I was in charge of the whole move. For the entire company. And everyone got new iPhones. Most of these people can fix a $10,000 copier but put a new iPhone in their hand and you would think I handed them a bomb that was about to
detonate.

Just one set of the phones I had to activate

All that is over though, and I can move on to better things. Like blogging and making more Pinterest boards.

Athletics: OSU is on a roll, baby! We are 5-0 going into the game against Texas this weekend.
We lost our flag football game yesterday 46-6. The team has played together for 10 years and never lost a game. Hey, at least we scored one touchdown.

Kyle needed a pic with my dad's crazy shirt

Food: I made these gems below for Sunday snack. I switched up my sweet routine and turned to something salty. Kyle likes sodium and needed a break from all the cookies.

Pepperoni Rollups: Crescent roll, string cheese, pepperoni served with marinara or ranch

Life: I ran the Warrior Dash with my brother, Erin, Monica and Justin. I'll make this summary about this real simple: I hated it. It wasn't a "dash". More like a slow, painful, slippery uphill trek with some obstacles thrown in. I did like the obstacles and thank goodness I was doing it with fun people.

I have become addicted to bidding on Ebay recently. It all started when I was looking for a classic denim jacket from Gap. And then I found all this other stuff that was super cheap and now I can't stop. I am selling items on there, too to help offset the bargains I find.

Celebrated Sammi's 28th birthday at Mi Cocina, The Mayo Rooftop and Caravan

Jordyn looking blissfully happy while running down a hill


Lauren's colorful soccer attire

Kyle is gone to the Outer Banks for a week long bachelor party. The bachelor doesn't get there until Wednesday but they rented a house for a week so Kyle went early with 2 other guys.

We hit up the Tulsa State Fair and I ate cream cheese on a stick for the first time. It was heavenly.

This week will be spent relaxing, working out, and catching up on tv while Kyle is gone. Headed to Edmond this weekend for some soccer and to watch the OSU game Sat.

I am thinking of making raspberry beer for the ladies to have while we watch the game. And maybe some cheesy bean dip, too.

Random: I wish I lived a life where it was ok to wear these leggings.
Also, if you like pumpkin and warm drinks, please do yourself a favor and have a pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks.

Sunday Snack

2011-09-26T11:47:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the second edition of Sunday Snack. Today we feature peanut butter. Delicious peanut butter.

This is how it all started:

One monstrous size peanut butter jar. Kyle purchases a lot of things in bulk, and this one of them. There was a brand new one just waiting to be opened.

There is a recipe for peanut butter cookies on the back of the jar. And wouldn't you know that I had an almost full bag of peanut butter chips waiting to be used.

A few ingredients later, and I had created this:

3 dozen peanut butter chip cookies.

Nothing fancy here today, but if you love peanut butter, you need to make these.

Ranch Bread

2011-09-21T14:26:00.000-05:00

This bread is going to blow yo mind. It is so good, and so easy to make. I have to give credit to Kyle on this one. He first saw a commercial for it, and made it and he is been in love with it ever since. I'm pretty sure he would marry it if he could.

So here goes: Ranch Bread

1 loaf french bread

lots of butter

Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing packet

Cut however much of your french loaf you think you need. And then cut it length ways. Butter the top of each slice, and sprinkle dry ranch seasoning on top. Broil for about 5 min, or until golden on top.

And then you get this:

Enjoy!

Sunday Snack

2011-09-19T12:25:00.000-05:00

Here at Just Another Day, I like to keep it fresh. I like to keep my readers interested. And if that means I have to start a new tradition, well then I have to start a new tradition. Last night, I thought of what I would do. I would create a post every Monday and call it "Sunday Snack" because that is exactly what it will be. A post about the Sunday Snack I made the day before.

You see, as I have mentioned before, Pinterest has been very good to me. I have been getting all kinds of recipes off of the site, pinning them to my boards, and then filling Kyle and his friends with all of my baking and cooking skills. These skills are newly acquired, and I feel on top of the world! I told Elaina last week the the baking ideas in my head are consuming. I am constantly thinking of what I will make next.

To start this new posting tradition, I will post the Sunday Snack I made yesterday from a recipe I found on Pinterest & with a little twist from Elaina who has made these a few times before.

Pretzel cookies with chocolate & peanut butter chips

Elaina said when she made these she just used the recipe for the cookie on the bag of chocolate chips, so that is what I did. And they were awesome. 5 dozen of these suckers were gone when I got back to Kyle's around 5:30 last night.

I started out the morning by making biscuits and gravy.


Not my photo

This recipe calls for 3 cups milk, and Kyle had exactly 3 cups milk. However, the gravy was somewhat thick and could have used a little more to thin it out. I used Grands Homestyle biscuits and JC Potter original sausage.

A few Saturdays ago, I made this:


Betty Crocker "Brookie"

This was a brownie mix, with random drops of cookie dough on top. Delicious and I just ran across it in the cake aisle and thought I needed to try it.

Two Sundays ago, I made:

Pretzels with melted Hershey kiss, topped with M&M

These were a hit for the Sunday football fellas. I made a few special ones and dipped the M&M in peanut butter before putting it in top. Personally, they were a little too chocolate-y for me, so next time I will be using a Rolo or something more fun than a Hershey kiss.

cake batter rice krispies

This cake matter recipe took these Krispies to a whole new level.

Since I have a huge box of Rice Krispies left over, here is what I plan to make this coming Sunday:

Krispie Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

I'll let you know how these turn out!

Now keep in mind, I am by no means Suzie Homemaker or Betty Crocker. If a recipe has more than about 6 ingredients, I won't make it. Or if it calls for something unusual that I am not familiar with, I won't make it.
So if you like easy recipes that are usually really fattening and 6 ingredients or less, you are in the right place.

And the recipe I am most proud of??? My first 2 loaves of Amish Friendship Bread! I made them on Saturday after we got back from Edmond and they turned out awesome! This does have more than 6 ingredients and my kitchen was a mess after I made them, but totally worth it. I brought a loaf to work this morning and put it in the kitchen and it is already gone. Let me know if you would like the recipe!

Fall Fashion

2011-09-16T09:52:00.000-05:00

It's time to put my summer dresses away. And I must say I am really happy with my dress selection from this past year. I purchased a few really great dresses for pretty cheap and now my collection is in a good place. I even turned down some stuff at Marshall's recently because I already had too many dresses.

So now that fall is approaching, I am really itching to get some new fall fashion items in my closet. Here are a few things from Gap that need to be in my closet:

Rayon crewneck sweater


Basic black skirt

Maroon corduroy leggings


Ballet flat

Tuxedo blouse

One of my favorite things about fall are sweaters, which ironically I don't have many. Lately I have been really into chunky sweaters. The perfect outfit in my head is a great pair of black leggings, my Steve Madden Intyce boots in Cognac, and a camel colored sweater. Or here is another idea in my head. I love the idea of the button up shirt, black maxi with a belt, and flat:

Anyone want to fund my fall fashion shopping trips?!

Fundraisers for Talbey

2011-09-15T10:02:00.000-05:00

I know most of you probably have a local Scentsy rep, but in case you don't and would like to raise money for Talbey and his family, below is a link to a Scentsy fundraiser for him:

Scentsy Fundraiser

There is also a Stella and Dot jewelry fundraiser set up:

Stella and Dot Fundraiser

Tonight we kick off fall kickball. Well, it actually started last week but we had to forfeit our first game since we would be missing so many people due to the OSU game in Stillwater.
I started flag football last Sunday and it was so great to do that again! I loved my intramural team in college and have been missing it ever since. My body was so sore for the next few days. I forgot how exhausting that can be.
This chilly weather is perfect! I look forward to chilly evenings when I can use a blanket! Kyle keeps his house really cold in the winter, and I don't keep mine much warmer. Although I do like to feel the ends of my fingers in my home.

OSU plays TU this Saturday at 9 PM. I am not going to the game; I am going to relax some this weekend since I just counted up the activities on my upcoming calendar. Since I know you are so curious, let me list them for you:

Sept 24: Warrior Dash with Bryan and Erin
Sept 29-Oct 9: Tulsa State Fair
Oct 4: Sammi's bday
Oct 19-22: Oktoberfest
Oct 29: OSU Homecoming and surely some type of Halloween event
Nov 3-7: Kyle & Heather to Pittsburgh for Steelers game!
Nov 11: Wedding in FTG
Nov 12: Mom's bday
Nov 18-20: Dallas weekend
Nov 24-26: Thanksgiving
Dec 3: Bedlam in Stillwater

After bedlam, it will be time to get ready for Christmas and our New Years Eve trip to Pittsburgh!

Random Topics

2011-09-08T11:01:00.000-05:00

When I don't have one particular topic to blog about, I like to just mix all things up and cover a multitude of things.

I saw a headline yesterday that really annoyed me. It said "Terrell Owens was in tears over finances". I clicked on the story and the byline said this: The NFL star is in tears when faced with his mortgage and other bills during the lockout. Is it just me or does this seem so ridiculous?! I mean this guy is making millions to play football, and he is freaking out over the lockout and not making a few paychecks?! And he has a VH1 reality show that I am sure pays him some dough. Here is my suggestion to T.O.: live within your means! You prob bought a ridiculously expensive house that requires a gigantic mortgage payment. While I bet that was really neat at the time, you probably should have purchased something that comes with a mortgage payment that you could actually afford with your millions of dollars. And T.O. always has some crazy bling. Cut out the bling, dude. I hear Claire's still carries some pretty rad cubic zirconia studs. I know a lavish lifestyle must be awesome, but I can't help but be annoyed when someone that has made that much money cries over a lack of paycheck while there are tons of people who face the difficulty of paying bills every month. End rant.

September 11. The 10 year anniversary is approaching and I have been watching several specials on various stations. Kyle and I watched the George Bush special on National Geographic the other night. While I know many people don't care for our former President, you cannot discount the fact that he unarguably faced one of the most trying times in office. As my cousin Tweeted it best: "Watching 9/11 Interview:no matter what you think of Bush, he led our nation through one of the most horrific moments & still makes me proud." 9/11 changed our world forever. It was said during the special on National Geographic, 'the people alive during that time will forever hold that moment in their heart". I will tell my children one day about 9/11 like my grandma can tell me about Kennedy being shot, and like my mom can tell me about Elvis dying*, and like my grandpa can tell me about Vietnam. *I know that is hardly the same, but my mom remembers it vividly.

OSU football is upon us. Kyle experienced his first game last Sat. He also experienced me sweating more than a 300 lb man on the middle of summer. We are still together today, surprisingly. I finally got to see Laina for the first time since she moved. It was a hot, sweaty, kinda teary reunion but it was so "us".

Have you become addicted to Pinterest? It is wonderful and I have gotten into a cooking/baking kick thanks to it. I have recently made cake batter bars and cake batter rice krispie treats and buffalo chicken dip. Not only has Pinterest given me the cooking bug, I also have several others boards that need some attention. Hopefully I can complete my coaster-making project soon!

Update on Talbey

2011-09-07T08:12:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a tough day for the Ahlum's. Talbey's legs were amputated just below the knee. This has been a main concern for several days, and we had all prayed that he would be able to keep his legs. They are concerned now that they may not have amputated high enough, and they will assess more on Thursday and decide whether they need to amputate more. My brother said his arms and hands are fine.

His fever spiked to 104 after the surgery yesterday. They got it back down, but were very concerned with the cause of the spiked fever.
Please continue praying for Talbey and the rest of his family through this unbelievably difficult time.

Healing for Talbey

2011-08-30T08:57:00.000-05:00

Talbey Ahlum is 3 yrs old and fighting an uphill battle as he recovers from a deadly infection he got last week. He is the son of Bryan and Erin's (my brother and his wife) best friends from college, Doug and Kari.

Talbey became sick last Wednesday, and it quickly turned into Talbey fighting for his life at the Arkansas Children's Hospital. Doug and Kari have 2 other boys, Gavin and Graham. Talbey is the middle guy.

If you are on Facebook and would like to check on his progress, you can "like" Healing for Talbey. Talbey can use all the prayers in the world right now as he continues to make small strides in his recovery.

Professional Pics

2011-08-26T08:43:00.000-05:00

The bride posted some of the pics from the photographer and I just couldn't help but share these two.

Edwards, CO

2011-08-24T16:15:00.000-05:00

Kyle was in a wedding in Edwards, CO this past Sunday. Edwards is about 20 min west of Vail. And it is absolutely gorgeous. Kyle went to Denver early, and I flew in on Sat morn. Picked up the rental car and drove to his friends house to get him. I must say, I was pretty impressed with how easily I conquered this task.

We set out on our 2 hour drive to Edwards. I really wanted to sleep but I didn't want to miss the scenery. We hit the ground running once we got to our hotel. We stayed at the Inn and Suites at Riverwalk on Main St and it was the most adorable little place. Main St had all kinds of shops, restaurants, a movie theater and a scenic path behind the hotel. And I got a great deal on flight, hotel, and car on Hotwire. Maybe if they see this, they will thank me with coupons!

We hit the ground running once we got to Edwards. The rehearsal was supposed to be at 3, we got into town at 2. The rehearsal dinner was at the Edwards Community Center, and they served Moe's BBQ. The food was fantastic, and it was a laid back evening. The weather was so nice compared to the heat we have been experiencing. In some freak of nature event, Kyle agreed to call it an early night so that he could be in his best shape for the wedding on Sunday. This is a rare occurrence people.

Sunday, we woke up at 8:15 and went downstairs for breakfast. Then we went to the pool in this cute little secluded area surrounded with flowers. We got some good sun time in before a bridesmaid told him that he had to be at a brunch at 12:30. Nice. I opted out of this, and walked to get some lunch at a grill down the street, and then lounged in the room for about an hour before getting ready. I wore the charcoal dress I posted previously, and a Vera Wang statement necklace. While my outfit was the bomb, Kyle had never tried on his tux. Smooth move. So his pants were about a size 38, and the adjusters on the side wouldn't hold. I tried to get them to stay up using giant bobby pins, but they wouldn't hold. He decided a belt would be the only thing that would work. Thank goodness the jacket was long enough to hide it.

The wedding was a Jewish ceremony, which I had never seen before. The reception featured appetizers, then dinner, then cookies and cupcakes, then midnight snacks and an open bar. Yahtzee!

We had a wonderful time, and I wish we could have stayed one more day and explored Colorado a bit more.

The reception/ceremony

The groomsmen waiting

Can't see that belt, huh?

I miss you, Edwards CO!

Kyle birthday brother, Tony

Things

2011-08-19T09:16:00.001-05:00

I was reading something the other day about things one could or could not live without. Here are mind:

Things I Cannot Live Without:

1. Lotion: I have really dry skin
2. Mascara: I just really like it
3. Peanut butter: Another thing I really like
4. Exercise: Makes me feel great
5. Chapstick: Continuing with the dry skin thing

Things I Can Live Without:

1. Extended cable package: I am getting used to this
2. Red meat: Don't tell Kyle, the steak fanatic
3. Car: I would love to live in a city where you walked & took public transportation
4. Caffeine: Not something that is crucial to my day
5. Facebook: Too much information, people

What are the things on your lists? I am sure I can add more to each, but we will keep it to 5 for now.

I fly out to Denver in the morning. Kyle was supposed to leave last night, but his flight got cancelled. So he is on a flight this morning, he will spend less than 24 hours in Denver before I fly in, pick up the rental car and drive us to Vail. I don't know why I am so nervous about picking up this car and navigating Denver to find him, but I really am. I'm sure if other people have done similar in the past, I can master this. I managed to get Katie and I around Paris for 6 days, this should be nothing. We are staying in the cute little hotel in Edwards (right by Vail) called the Inn and Suites at Riverwalk.

I am slowly getting into saving money thru coupons. Yesterday I sat at work and compared prices of my favorite mascara at Walmart, Walgreens, Target, & CVS. Walmart was the cheapest, CVS was ridiculously high and Walgreens had buy one get one half off. I am going to try to clip coupons and then look at weekly adds and see if I can save more dough.

My blog sale has not done as well as I hoped. Now I need to find a decent resale shop here in Tulsa. Surely there have to be some...

Girls Night with My Ladies

2011-08-17T10:01:00.001-05:00

This past Saturday, I got to spend the whole day with my 3 little ladies. Bryan and Erin had plans in Tulsa, so we met for lunch with Mom and Dad and then started our day.

Our first order of biznass was to move a TV and stand into my living room. The girls were getting a little antsy sitting around waiting for Grammy and Pappy to finish up, so I gave Allison and Jordyn cleaning jobs that kept them busy for awhile.

Once Grammy and Pappy left, I made a plan with the girls for our day. Our first excursion was to Yolotti on Brookside to get froyo. Lauren chose pink lemonade yogurt and it was the bomb. Allison made a disgusting mixture of cookies and milk froyo, mixed with pink lemonade, topped with cookie dough balls and gummi bears. Once she sat down to eat it, she didn't even like it. I helped Jordyn make hers, so I gave that to Allison and let Jordy eat the gummi bears out of the reject froyo cup.

We then went to rent 2 movies (Beverly Hills Chihuahua and Tangled) and spent a few hours at my house preparing for our night out on the town. Jordy was entertaining herself with a handheld broom, when she walked into my room and said, "do you have a towel, ma'am?" Hilarious. I realized she was dipping the broom in Sophie's dog bowl, and then wiping the floors clean.

Kyle came to pick us up around 6 and we headed to Incredible Pizza. I had no idea what I was in for. The big girls were so excited to see Kyle. Jordy clung to me. After we ate, we headed into the game room. I actually think the buffet area was more of a challenge. It's like parents get in there and completely lose all parenting skills.
Lauren had hurt her wrist a few days before, but she seemed fine. Kyle took the big girls to do bumper cars, and all seemed fine until Lauren got out and hugged my legs and started crying. She had jammed her wrist again and was in pain. I could already tell it was swelling, so I made her an ice pack out of a to go sack and ice from the pop machine. We tried to play some more games, took Jordyn into Tiny Tot Town, but she was really hurting during mini golf and we ended our game and decided to head home. Kyle took Lauren to get the car, while I grabbed some dessert the other two. I wanted my (Kyle's) moneys worth from this place.

We stopped and got some children'sTtylenol and got ready for bed. Popped in Tangled, all cuddled up on the couches, said our goodbyes to Kyle and passed out. The giirls were going to sleep on a blow up bed in the spare bedroom, and Jordyn with me. But they wanted to be in the same room as me, so I shoved the bed in my room and we all crammed in there. We had a diner breakfast the next morning and then they headed back to Edmond. I had such a good time with them. I can't believe they fast they are growing up, and I am so glad we fianlly got to have our girls slumber party that we have talked about for so long!

Blog Sale

2011-08-09T15:20:00.004-05:00

Welcome to my first blog sale! I decided to do this after my new favorite blog, Blog Sales United started and I found some really great deals. Here is how this will work:

The blue dress is for sale, not the ladies :)

~~Item 2: Studio Y Paisley Dress from Maurices~~

~~Size 5/6~~

~~Worn 2 times~~

~~$15~~

Item 3: Black Evan Picone Dress from Dillards

Size 4

Worn 2 times

I know this pic is hard to see, please let me know if you would like more images

$10

Item 4: IN Studio red dress from Dillards

Size 6

Worn 2 times

$10

Item 5: Alfred Angelo Raspberry Bridesmaid Dress

Size 10, fits a 6

Worn once (obviously)

$40 / obo

Item 6: Blue cotton halter dress from Forever 21

Worn 3 times

Item 7: Olive pull on shorts from Old Navy

Worn a handful of times, still in good condition

Item 8: Liz Claiborne purse

Some wear and tear in the inside, the outside is great

Item 9: Mossimo crossbody bag from Target

This thing can hold a ton!

Item 10: Black Aldo purse

Item 11: White carry all from NY and Company

One of my most favorite bags ever!

Some marks on the inside

Holds a lots, and has lots of pockets on inside

Item 12: Pink snake skin clutch

Carried one time

Room for tons of credit cards, if you have that many

~~Item 13: Chocolate brown leather boots- Worthington~~

~~Brand new, in box~~

~~Never worn / size 8.5~~

~~Retail $110~~

~~Will sell for $50 / obo~~

~~Item 14: Delicious black snake skin peep toe pumps~~

~~Worn once~~

~~Size 8.5~~

~~$15~~

Item 15: Brown American Eagle for Payless wedges

Worn several times / size 8.5

~~Item 16: Grey Michelle D patent leather peep toes~~

~~Worn once~~

~~Size 8.5 / $15~~

Item 17: Royal Blue Essential by ABS from Dillards dress

Worn once

Size Medium / $15

The color didn't come out great, so I added a personal picture below

Plenty of Cocktail to Go Around

2011-08-09T11:26:00.000-05:00

Since the day Kyle told me we were going to a fancy wedding in Pittsburgh on NYE, I have been thinking about what I would wear. I started looking at dresses hoping to find something sassy and on sale. I know there will be more options the closer it gets to the wedding, especially since it is NYE, but I just couldn't pass up these deals from Dillard's. Here are the 3 dresses I picked out:


Strapless Animal Print

Original Price: $138

Sale Price: $49.68


Strapless Taffeta

Original Price: $80

Sale Price: $35.99

Special note: This bad boy has pockets!


Belted Lace Dress

Original Price: $148

Sale Price: $53.28

So you can see by the sale prices, that I could hardly turn down such a deal! I got all 3 for the price I would have paid for the first or third alone. Ordering online can be tricky. I go between a small and a medium or a 4 and a 6. I gambled on a small for the middle one, and 4's for the others and hit the jackpot!

Side note: How do ladies living alone zip up their dresses?! I had to take all 3 of these to Kyle's last night and have him help me with the zippers. I can get them about 3/4 of the way up and then only God knows if it will go the rest of the way!

The only thing I may alter is the animal print one. The skirt is fitted, like Kim Kardashian style, and I was going to take it to my tailor and see if she could put a slit in the back for some extra room.

Next weekend we have a rehearsal dinner and wedding in Vail, and I think I will wear the charcoal one to the wedding, and I am not sure what to the rehearsal dinner yet. I am pretty sure I am saving the black lace one for the NYE wedding, because it is gorgeous on. I love it. And I have my eye on these bomb earrings from Rent the Runway to pair with it:

Emerald Drop Earrings

You can rent these $150 earrings for $25. Might seem kinda silly to rent something, but this website has some serious fashion that I could never afford, so you can rent it. Genius idea, I say!

What I Have Been Doing

2011-08-03T08:49:00.000-05:00

Nothing really. Well, that is not completely true. I have been doing some stuff. Like showering twice a day in this heat and watching my flowers die even though I watered them 400 times.

Since I don't have any really interesting updates since my last post, I will just give you some minor (boring) details of my life.

My shellac did not last 3 weeks. It began peeling away near the cuticle at about a week and I got my first chip last night. Still worth the money in my book though.
I wrote my first rent check on August 1st for the full amount of rent, not splitting with a roomie. I'm not gonna lie, it was painful.
I haven't stopped sweating since July 1st.
I ordered 3 dresses from Dillard's for one wedding. I know, ridiculous but they were a steal and I will return the ones I don't plan on wearing.
If you like great deals, visit Blog Sales United. I plan on submitting a blog sale once I can go through my closet and see what I need to get rid of.
The Real Housewives of New York restores my faith in female friendships....not. But I can't stop watching them.
I am turning down a trip to the new outlet mall in OKC this weekend to save money. I feel like an alien has invaded me.
My fridge went out and all of my groceries had to be thrown out. That was fun. But my landlord is awesome and has a new fridge in place in less than 24 hours.
They also found a small gas leak and turned off the gas so I had no hot water this morning. Luckily, Sophie and I could invade Kyle's house last night.
I cooked dinner for Kyle for the 2nd time in 1 yr. You did read this right. You see, Kyle has the pallet of a 12 year old boy. He hates fruits and veggies, and loves starch and meat. So when choosing something to cook for him, I end up getting annoyed and giving up. Last night was a success though with Toasted Parmesan Chicken Subs found on Tasty Kitchen.
This heat is taking its toll on me. I drank water all day Sat and still was getting cramps in my feet. And I have been having headaches almost everyday.
I used a Groupon to buy a pair of Old Navy jeans for 8 dollars.
I love Pinterest. Check it out.

Dallas Trip and No More TBS

2011-07-27T10:48:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, I went down to Dallas for a wedding. I flew Southwest since they are dirt cheap and can get me there in 45 min. Friday night, my 7:45 PM flight was delayed til 9:15 and coming home on Sunday, my flight was delayed from 11:20 AM til 2:20 PM. Annoying! But they gave me a $100 voucher, which will come in very handy.

The wedding was at The Ritz, and they def know how to put on a wedding. Side note: I think I need to cut champagne out of my life. Or limit myself to 2 glasses, which does not seem possible. The wedding was a blast, even though I was forced to go alone because Kyle was out of town. I went with my brother and Erin and sat at a table with all couples. Hence, the over indulging of champagne. But really, the night was so much fun. I always love getting to spend time with Bryan & Erin. Here is the one picture I got all night:

Best sister in law ever :)

Kyle was supposed to fly home Sunday night but American overbooked and he ended up getting a $500 voucher to stay one more night in Pittsburgh. It was an interesting weekend for the two of us!

I got my first shellac manicure, and I am officially hooked. I love to paint my nails, but they seem to chip every 3 days or so and I have to redo them. I usually end up painting them at Kyle's kitchen counter, and he hates the smell. This is supposed to last 3 weeks.

In other news, my roomie Elaina got offered a great job in OKC, and started on Monday. I am so proud of her for taking this opportunity, even though it means I don't get to live with her anymore. I decided rather than looking for a one bedroom apartment, I would stay in the house and cut costs wherever I could. Luckily, our rent is pretty cheap and all of the one bedroom apts I looked at were about the same as what I will be paying now. I did have to get rid of expanded cable and my DVR. For the first time in my life, I will not have TBS in my home. I love TBS, mainly because it plays Seinfeld all the time. But I am on the go a lot, so basic cable will be just fine, and I will record some stuff at Kyle's house. I already recorded the Real Housewives of New York reunion on his bedroom TV. He was thrilled about that.

Here are some pics from her going away party:

Friday Night Lights

2011-07-15T12:21:00.000-05:00

Friday Night Lights is easily one of my favorite TV shows. And it all ends tonight. The season finale airs tonight, and I will miss Eric and Tami Taylor. And it is no secret that I love me some Tim Riggins.
Elaina and I have a favorite OSU sports blog writer, Kyle Porter, that posted this link on his blog about an oral history on FNL. It's long, but if you love FNL you need to read it.

Coach Taylor- If you have ever lived in a small town like FTG, where football pulls the town together, you will know why I love him. When I was in high school, our football coach was Coach Reed and he had a handlebar mustache and was rough and looked like he smoked one too many cigarettes. And I loved him and thought he was the coolest guy ever. He was my Coach Taylor. What I love about Coach Taylor is his no nonsense attitude. He is stressed all the time and you can tell and he pushes his players to the best they can be. But he loves his wife and his girls and you can see that in his eyes.

Tami Taylor: The gorgeous wife of Coach Taylor, that has a love for counseling students into becoming all they can be. Tami has the perfect southern drawl when she says "hey ya'll" and has the best hair on TV, no lie. She loves Coach Taylor and is the typical football wife, but her character has depth and you learn so much more about her and her passion for students. I won't lie, at one point in my young life, when I was dating the football star, I envisioned us getting married and him becoming a coach and me being his supportive, loving wife in the stands. Wow.

Tim Riggins: Where do I start? Do I start with his unbelievable rugged good looks? Or how he is the quintessential bad boy that every girl wants? Or how I just want to hug him for all the crap he has been put through? Remember when I said that I dated the star football player in high school? I forgot to mention that he was also the bad boy that never had girlfriends and drank too much and had an ice cold exterior. But we had been friends since 3rd grade and one August night I realized how sweet he could be and it was my mission to make a boyfriend out of him. Which I did, and then he cheated on me with a freshman cheerleader (how cliche). Anyway, now you know why I love Tim Riggins so much. He better get cast in something else soon so I don't have to creepily google pics of him.

Lyla Garrity: Oh Lyla. The gorgeous girl who dates the football player that has a neck injury and becomes crippled. And she has a rendezvous with Tim Riggins that turns into a love relationship and she gets to see Tim's vulnerable side (please see paragraph above). Lyla is so sweet and innocent, yet not so innocent and pretty much could run the town on her good looks. I'm not sure there was much depth to her character, but she looked good in boots and jeans and enhanced Tim Riggins character. And now she is dating Derek Jeter, not too shabby.

There are tons more characters that I could write about, but these 4 are my favorites. What I love about the show was that is was more than football, it was about a little community pulling together, and at times tearing each other apart. And it was about the love between Coach Taylor and Tami, with all the stresses of life mixed in. My favorite line from the link posted above is this: Peter Berg (creator, executive producer): The show will be remembered more as one about a marriage than one about football.

Morning Routine

2011-07-14T14:44:00.000-05:00

I think I may have said on a blog post before, that I cannot locate, that I have the exact same routine every morning. Who doesn't? Once again, my pals (I don't even know them) at The Frisky posted something that I felt like I should blog about. Each staffer details her morning routine. Here's mine:

1. Wake up at 6:35 and groggily walk Sophie to the back door and take her out. I leave the back door cracked while she eats and I shower. This is her "poop time" and as most, I prefer that to happen outside and I am too impatient in the morning to wait on her to do it before I shower. I wash my hair about every 2-3 days (if I was Monday, I will wash again Thur). Baby powder does the trick on the non-wash days. I used Equate brand face cleanser and scrub.
2. I am a lotion lover. I use it everyday and I was not happy to only be able to take 3 oz of it to Pittsburgh . I use Equate shea butter lotion. I put cream on my feet and wear socks while I get ready for optimum moisturizing time. I use Dove face moisturizer, Maybelline mineral powder, coral blush in the summer/pink in the other seasons, $1 Elf bronzer in the summer from Target, concealer galore under my eyes (still looking for the perfect one), and 2 kinds of mascara: Covergirl Lashblast length and then a coat of Maybelline Full and Soft. I heard waterproof holds curled lashes better, so I use that.
3. I let my hair air dry while I do my mascara, and then I use Garnier mousse for volume (what little I can get), and always use Tresemme heat protecting spray. Depening on the cycle of hair washing, I will do one of the following:

Hair completey down, straight
Bangs pinned back, hair curled
Bangs with a side swoop, hair in ponytail

I finish with some Garnier Shine Spray on my hair & then some lovely new body spray from Dove, Cucumber & Green Tea.

So there ya have it, my morning ritual. Everything is done in the same order every day.
If you read the Frisky article linked above, I think it is funny the difference between my brands and theirs.

Heather: Equate, Garnier, Dove, Covergirl, Maybelline
Frisky Girls: MAC, Stila, Kiehls, Dior, Lancome, etc

Cocktail Dress

2011-07-13T14:58:00.000-05:00

Forgive me for posting this so early. It is July and I am about to post dress ideas for a wedding on new years eve. Don't judge me.

You'll remember this post where I listed all our our planned trips. The list seems to add another one to it as soon as one is complete. But I am not complaining! I love traveling, and I love traveling with Kyle. He navigates an airport like Indiana Jones navigates a hidden tomb.

So back to the topic at hand. Kyle is a groomsmen in a wedding on NYE in Pittsburgh. Thank goodness we went to there over the 4th so I could talk to some girls and get an idea of how fancy this wedding was going to be. I was told the invitation was going to originally say "black tie" but has been changed to "black tie optional". Kyle will be a tux, so I obvs need to look fancy nancy. I have been looking at some cocktail dresses and hoping to snag one on sale that I can pair with tights. On that note, fashion friends, should I plan on wearing tights? It is a winter wedding in the north. Do tights make it look too casual?

Here are the front runners: for some reason I can't post the pics of the dresses

Dillards: Gray Strapless
Dillards: Steel Strapless Tafetta
Dillards: Purple Strapless - I think this one is my fave so far
Macy's: Black One Shoulder- I just noticed this one is only in size 8 and up now..tear
Macy's: Black One Shoulder

I'll take any votes for any of the dresses, and/or suggestions!

Pittsburgh

2011-07-07T11:52:00.000-05:00

Kyle and I went to Pittsburgh over the 4th of July holiday. Most of you know he is from there, and this was my first time to go there. We got in late Friday night, and thanks to Dante and Erin, we had a ride from the airport. We went back to their house, a cool condo in Shady Side (kinda like Brookside) and had a few drinks and then walked to a pizza/bar place. The boys played darts while Erin and I played the "get to know you" game.

Sat morning, we took Dante's car and Kyle drove us to his parents house in Fox Chapel. The drive was gorgeous, and the trees and hills are nothing like flat OK. His parents are out of town, so we had the whole house (3 floors!) to ourself. After a quick shower, we headed up to the Pittsburgh Field Club to lay by the pool with Dante and Erin. Kyle's parents have been members there forever, and we saw tons of people that knew Kyle and have known him since he was little. The high was about 88 that day, and it was nothing like the heat we had left. We had lunch, watched the boys jump off the diving board, read, slept, talked and tanned. It was so relaxing and exactly what I needed to prepare for the oncoming of activities. That evening we had dinner at Jimmy Wan's and then met up with a bunch of his friends at this bar called the Crow's Nest. After that, we went to meet Dante and Erin at his cousin's house and partied the rest of the night away.

Sunday, we woke up at noon. No lie. I had been up Friday night for about 21 hours, and Sat we went to bed at 4:30. Sleeping in a house with no one else, and no dogs really allows for deep sleep. After laying around all day, we got ready for Lance's surprise birthday party, the real reason we went to Pittsburgh. The party was at 5:30, and it was hot. This OK girl started sweating immediately, and then was placed on the outside deck. After a few trips to the bathroom to cool off and using a paper plate as a fan, I stopped sweating. Lance loved his surprise party and we stayed for about 5 hours. We rounded everyone up, and headed to The Millhouse. After a few rounds of sparklers outside, and one crazy attempt at a sparkler inside the bar, we were exhausted and headed home. But not before Kyle's sweet friends Erin and Jenn could give me a welcome present. They got me a wine glass with the Pittsburgh skyline painted on it. It was probably one of the sweetest gestures I have ever experienced.

Monday, we slept in again and watched the Pirates game. Around 5, we headed to PFC again for a drink before our 4th of July party. Kyle is quite popular around there and I really enjoyed sitting on the patio listening to him catch up with people, and answer questions when they asked about us and how we met.
We went over to the 4th of July party, which was literally a scene out of a Martha Stewart Living magazine. I wish I had taken a picture. More people, more food, more booze. We ended the night on the fairway watching the fireworks. After a few people came over to his parents house for one last night of fun, I finally had to take myself to bed. 4 nights of drinks, talking and late nights had worn me down. Worn me so down that I fell down the stairs at his parents house and skinned my knee. It was hilarious, and thankfully no one saw me.

Highlights of the trip:

* Meeting Erin and Jenn
* Seeing Kyle's parents house
* Laying by the pool at PFC
* Hearing people say I have a cute accent
* Meeting so many people that watched Kyle grow up
* My new wine glass
* Another trip in the books with Kyle

Erin and Jenn- my new Pittsburgh loves!

Kyle and I with the high school sweethearts, Dante and Erin

The boys celebrating with Lance

Watching the fireworks

A Few Things on My Mind

2011-06-28T15:41:00.000-05:00

It seems as though summer is already in full swing, thanks to the sweltering heat and the calendar days just flipping on by. Weddings, trips, packing, and all sorts of other things are running through my head and some are completely unrelated to summer and/or trips.

1. Carry on luggage:
I put this one first because it is currently consuming my brain. Kyle travels a lot, and he rarely checks a bag. Kyle is also a guy that isn't worried too much about what he wears, and puts no product in his hair, and doesn't use a device to dry, straighten or curl his hair. You get my point?
We leave for Pittsburgh Friday and last night he said in passing "we aren't checking any bags, so we don't need to be at the airport too early." I was silent, and didn't make eye contact. He repeated "we AREN'T checking any bags, right Heather?" Ugh. I get it. Fees, waiting to check it and then retrieve it at baggage. I agreed to try to pack in 2 carry ons, and see how it went. I hit up the Walmart travel section today for plenty of 3 oz bottles. Let's see how many I can cram into a quart sized bag.

2. Franklin and Bash:
This new series on TNT stars Brecklin Meyer and Mark Paul Gosselar as two attorneys. They still play like boys, and use interesting tactics in the court room to win cases. All I know is they showed Mark Paul's booty come out of a hot tub the first episode and that was all I needed to get hooked.

3. Dresses:

I am (as always in the summer) obsessed with summer dresses. I can't get enough. My wallet doesn't feel the same way so I have to limit myself. Here is a green one I am keeping my eye on for now.

4. Wedges:

I love wedges. They are so summery, and so comfy. I have a great black pair that isn't too tall. I have been looking for a nude pair that wasn't too tall or too expensive. Thanks to Elaina purchasing a cute pair of shoes on Piperlime, I looked there and hit the jackpot. Free shipping and $29.99!

5. Cranberry Oatmeal cookies by Otis Spunkmeyer:
It could be the best cookie I have ever eaten

Recap of Girls Weekend

2011-06-20T11:04:00.000-05:00

Katie and Kristin came down to Tulsa June 10-12 for some girl time. Originally, Kyle was supposed to leave for Montana that Sat and I was going to entertain the girlies while he was gone, but he didn't leave until Tuesday, so he got to join in on the fun.

It's so nice to get to spend time with my loves. We always have so much fun together, and I am grateful that they made the 4 hour drive to come see me. Friday night, Kyle made us a nice steak dinner and we went out dancing, which was as much fun as I anticipated. We were slow to get around Sat and we got manis/pedis, shopped, got Katie's hair trimmed, ate dinner at Cosmo's, and then finished off the night at Kyle's. Looking back, we were so exhausted that I wish we had just rented a movie and relaxed, but I thought some people were coming over to join us, so I was trying to keep the party going. Either way, I am just happy they were there with me all weekend. I'm sad we only got one pic of all 3 of us.

Kyle left for Montana on Tuesday. His nephew, Henry Robert Gatewood, was born June 16th and weighed in at 6lbs 3oz and 18.5 in long. He will be home on Wednesday, so he is getting lots of time with his new buddy. He was immediately draped in a Steelers towel, of course.

Saturday night was our kickball party in downtown Tulsa at Woody's. Most of the team was there to celebrate our championship title this season.

I went home to sun myself in the pool yesterday, but my dad is in Canada on a fishing trip so I didn't get to give ole daddy-o a hug for being the best dad in the world. I left him a card and a pimpin new polo for when he returns. Love that guy!

My Fascination

2011-06-15T12:21:00.001-05:00

Don't worry, I'm not going to appear on the next episode of "Snapped" on WE tv. But I always have a had a fascination with murderers. Their motives, their life story, at what point they thought they could get away with it, how they behave during interrogation and trial. Here are a few of the cases that I have followed in my 28 years of life:

Scott Peterson:

Scott Peterson was convicted of murder of his wife, Lacey, and their unborn child. He was a pretty hot topic while I was in college, and I remember being glued to the TV/Internet the day he was found guilty. Scott said his wife went missing, but when his stories began not adding up, we learned he was having an affair and when he was arrested, he had quite an array of items in his possession. For more info on Scott, click here

Amanda Knox:

Amanda Knox, known as "Foxy Knoxy", is an American girl convicted of murder while studying abroad in Italy. She acted very strange when police questioned her, along with her Italian boyfriend. They were accused of murdering Amanda's roommate, Meredith because she wouldn't take part in their sex game. For more info on Amanda, click here

Casey Anthony:

Casey Anthony is currently on trial right now for the murder of her daughter, Caylee Anthony. Her defense is that Caylee drowned in the family swimming pool, but Caylee's body was found with duct tape around the jaw in a wooded area. She says her daughter drowned and her father (Caylee's grandfather) helped her dispose of the body. For more information on Casey, click here or here

*I know Wikipedia isn't the best source for accurate info, but it kinda put the whole story in one place for each person*

Anytime there is a Dateline, 20/20, CNN, or any type of news special about murder, you can usually find me glued to the tv.

Promise: My next post will be upbeat and happy, instead of about murders!

Kickball Champions!

2011-06-10T14:55:00.000-05:00

I have kept the blogging about kickball to a minimum this season, but I can't hold this in:

We are the Spring 2011 WAKA Kickball Champions!

I am so excited. Elaina and I must have said to each other 20 times last night, "we won!" Here is how it went down:

We play 8 regular season games. We lost 1 game in the regular season to G.T.K. They were ranked #1 all season long and were undefeated. Last night we played a semifinals game at 7:20 against the #3 team. We were ranked #2. Regulation is 5 innings, and we finally won it in 8 innings. We knew we would most likely be playing G.T.K. in the finals again this year. We lost to them last year in extra innings.

8:10 (more like 8:30) kickoff. G.T.K. vs. Mooseknuckles. They have a really good pitcher who hurls that ball at you as hard as he can. While he is a good pitcher, he is also one of the biggest jerks in the league. We started out the first inning with 3 runs, which gave us all the momentum we needed. Top of the 5th, we are up 3-1, and the heart of their lineup comes up. I was sure they would be able to score with their best players up, and they did. Tied it up. Bottom of the 5th, Mooseknuckles up. 2 runners on base, Brandon lines it up the 3rd base line and Claybrook scores.....Mooseknuckles win!

There were no outs, so I wish we had been cool enough to keep playing and see how many runs we could score. But we were way too excited and charged the field to celebrate.

Brandon posing after his winning kick

The lovely Mooseknuckles symbol

#1, baby!

I'm a Total Spaz

2011-06-09T11:18:00.002-05:00

As you readers know, I love The Frisky. While browsing the website the other day, I came across an article titled: I'm in a Great Relationship, So Can I Stop Freaking Out Now?

The article talks about a girl that is supposed to meet her boyfriends sister for the first time, and he doesn't respond to a text, and she freaks out. Here is the line that resonated with me the most: "Something about dating and seeing how hot can turn so quickly into cold makes it very hard to believe that someone’s feelings for you won’t just … change."

I have had that happen to me. Several times. I will be dating/in a relationship with someone,and out of the blue the they break up with me. After several times, it began to take a toll on me.

Another line from the article: "Sometimes I feel like one of those people on an airplane who ducks and covers, preparing for a crash landing when there’s only a slight touch of turbulence."

I do this all the time. I create an idea in my head that he doesn't like me anymore, and I run with it. I'm sure I drive my mother and my roomie insane with this. Sometimes I freak myself out so badly, I have a hard time getting back to a normal place.

Now, before you go thinking I am some crazy chick that obviously is doing something to facilitate these breakups, I would like to clarify that I probably wasn't picking the best mates in my teens/early 20's.

And another line: "I’m finding it strange that so much of the drama in my relationship happens solely in my head."

I am 100% guilty of creating relationship drama in my head. I know I am. I just can't help it sometimes. I definitely have abandonment issues. And I hate labeling myself as having "issues" but I can't think of anything else to call it. I am a functioning member of society who is able to build and maintain (for the most part, haha!) relationships with fellas, but at the same time I worry that it will suddenly end with no warning, leaving me wondering where it went wrong.
After my last relationship ended (out of the blue during a Thursday night phone call after 8 months), I was left in tears, and feeling confused like so many other times. And when I say it ended, it ended. There was no talking, no texting, no emails, nothing. He walked away from me like we have never dated, met each others parents, or gone to family weddings together.

When I starting dating Kyle, I was in a bad place. I didn't trust him because of what Kent had done to me. Over this past year, Kyle has done nothing but make me feel secure. Sometimes I still find ways to worry it will abruptly end, although not that often (pat myself on the back).

There are some tips in the article on how to ease yourself during freakouts. Does anyone else struggle with these similar feelings?

Girls Weekend Preparation!

2011-06-07T11:04:00.000-05:00

My numero uno cousin, Katie, is coming this weekend and bringing my cousin-by-marriage-but-love-her-like-blood cousin, Kristin with her. Yahtzee!

Originally, I planned on Kyle being in Montana this coming weekend but he isn't leaving until the 14th now. And the one full weekend he will be gone, Katie has a wedding to go to. So we just decided to go ahead and do a girls weekend with Kyle in town. He is gracious enough to let my girls stay in his spare bedroom and he might even cook us breakfast if we are nice to him.

Katie called me on Sunday, at bit inebriated, and said she and Kris were going to come this weekend. I wasn't sure if it was just the long island iced teas talking or what, but she called last night and confirmed. And then I informed Kyle, who responded with "THIS weekend", and followed up with "they can stay here and I will get the house clean and stay out of your way". Little does he know, that when the 3 of us are together, there is no "staying out of our way".

I have a few places I would like to take them this weekend: Cosmo Cafe for drinks and mint labneh and meat and cheese platter. (Also, check out their amazing new summer drink selection). ITR for some sushi maybe. Possibly some dancing at Treehouse. We'll just see where the Oklahoma wind takes us!

And let's add another trip to the schedule

2011-06-06T14:55:00.000-05:00

Kyle just called and informed me that he is whisking me off to Pittsburgh for the 4th of July weekend! One of his best friends, Lance, was diagnosed with brain cancer about 6 months ago and his wife is throwing him a surprise 30th birthday party. Kyle wouldn't miss it for the world. Lance has had surgery and has gone through chemo and calls Kyle often and says, "tell me about that time we_________." And they end up laughing about some of their crazy times in high school.

So we are flying out Friday July 1st and coming back Tuesday the 5th. He already bought our tickets and sent me the itinerary. And I have already started thinking about what clothes to pack. Ridiculous, I know.

Orbitz, Expedia, Southwest, Etc

2011-06-02T12:05:00.001-05:00

My mind has been consumed the last few days with flights. I have been looking for my own flights, flights for my boss, helping Kyle price flights, etc. Here's why:

June 11-19: Kyle in Montana
July 22-24: Heather in Dallas (yes, I am flying. It's so cheap and convenient)
July 19-24: Kyle in Virginia
August 19-22: Kyle and Heather at wedding in Denver
Unknown date but while Katie is out for summer break: Trip to (hopefully) NY with Katie & our momma's
October: Kyle to Hilton Head for bachelor party (better than Vegas, right?)
December: Kyle and Heather to Pittsburgh for wedding over NYE

I look at the Denver flights almost everyday to check prices. I have started looking for the Pitt flight because it is over NYE and I wasn't sure what the prices would be and the availability. Kyle is leaving around the 27th and I will fly up and meet him on the 29th and then we will fly home together.

Kyle about smacked me at dinner last night when I brought up the Pittsburgh trip. He has been laughing at me for weeks about me looking at Denver flights for August. And then I move all the way to Dec. Whatever, I don't fly all the time like him and I just like to know what the plan is. Plus, I have to ask off work and such. I bought his dinner last night so he promptly decided to hush it and give me some feedback on Pittsburgh.

My brother and his wifey, Erin are celebrating their 10th anniversary today. I wish I had thought ahead and scanned in some pics from the wedding. They are headed to Vegas today to celebrate and I am picking up the girls from Erin's mom on Sat. Then taking them to FTG to spend the weekend at Grammy and Pappy's. Kyle is coming out to the good ole FTG to swim and cook out with us on Sat. I'm sure once (or if) my dad reads this, he will start cleaning every nook of the house so it is spotless for Kyle to see for the first time.
Speaking of the house, my mom burned up the kitchen awhile back and I got to see their newly redone kitchen last weekend and it is gorgeous! Looks like something straight out of a magazine.
Hopefully Kyle doesn't want to drown himself after a full day of my 3 nieces :)

*I realize this blog has no more "Rowdy Red" references. I'm over it.*

10 Best Drugstore Beauty Items

2011-05-27T10:58:00.000-05:00

I'm cheap. Or frugal. However you want to put it, I like to find a bargain. I learned this from my mom. The wonderful job as a stay at home forced her to clip coupons and browse the sale racks so she could afford to stay home with me and my brother, and the foster babies we had.

I love shopping. I love buying new clothes, jewelry (nothing expensive), bath products, home products. I just love new stuff. But that costs money, something I don't have an abundance of. I use the cheap Dove moisturizer from Walmart, the freebie toothbrush the dentist gave me, and I am the queen of stockpiling bath and body works gifts and having a shower gel/lotion collection to last me thru 2015.

I found this article the other day the listed the 10 Best Drugstore Beauty Items and I picked out 3 that I want to try, even though it will require me to spend a little more money:

1. Neutrogena 3-in-1 Concealer for Eyes with SPF 20- I have dark circles under my eyes and I always have. I look back at pics of me as a little girl and I swear you could see them when I was 7. I battle them and obsess over the circles and even though I read not to use more and more concealer, I can't help it. So I am def trying this concealer out! (Side note: I recently purchased an Aveeno Under Eye Roller treatment with caffeine and it seems to be working.)

2. L'Oreal Paris Studio Secrets Color Truth Cream Eyeliner- I am in search of an eyeliner that will not run down my face and make my look like a girl that has cried her make up off. As mentioned in #1, I don't need anything below my eyes making it appear darker.

3. John Frieda Secret Weapon Flawless Finishing Creme- I love John Frieda products and any finishing cream to help combat the humidity of OK in the summer is worth a try!

Honorable Mention: Covergirl LashBlast- I already use this and love it.

I just don't get it...

2011-05-26T09:25:00.000-05:00

Growing up in a sports-loving family, I learned a lot about sports. And I learned to not only know a lot, but to love sports.

I know about encroachment, 3-second violations, hitting for the cycle and so on. Here is one thing I don't get and it is very simple: Why do the players put their warm ups back on when they go to the bench?

Such a simple question, I know. But it baffles me. In my high school b-ball days, once I got the privilege of tearing off my warm up & getting some playing time, I never put it back on. And believe me, I made plenty of trips to and from the bench.

Some would say it is so their muscles don't get cold. I don't buy that. Most players aren't sitting the bench long enough to get a cold muscle and then pull something when they go back in.

So anyway, simple question. If anyone has a great answer other than to avoid their muscles getting cold in an INDOOR arena, let me know.

Bummed about the Thunder loss last night, but we are a dang good team that held onto a tough series with the Dirks, I mean the Mavs.

Tonight, we wrap up the last regular season kickball game. We are 6-1, with our only loss to the team ranked #1 in the league.

This past week has been full of emotions. Sunday night, Joplin was hit by a devastating tornado. My friends Eric and Torrie and their 5 week old baby lost everything. Eric talks about it on his blog
Please pray for them. Eric said it best when he wrote on Facebook: it is well with my soul.

Tuesday brought more thunderstorms, and I will admit that I got a little freaked out. I don't freak out over severe weather. And I don't know if it was what happened to Eric and Torrie, or what the weather men were saying, or the fact that idiotic weather man Aaron Tuttle in OKC was Facebooking and Tweeting overly dramatic, scary things but I felt uneasy.
I live in a small house and I knew I wouldn't feel safe at home. So I called Rowdy Red at lunch and told him I was packing a bag and coming to his house after work. He went over to my house around 2:30 and picked up Sophie for me. Luckily, the storms didn't produce much more than wind and rain in Tulsa, but I felt prepared and went home that night knowing I made the smart decision.

Rowdy Red has 3 guys coming in town to spend Memorial Day with him. One from Pittsburgh, one from Chicago, and one from Baltimore. He is so excited to see his friends and spend the weekend playing golf and cooking out. I am excited to meet them, but I am also excited to get some pool time while they are golfing!

Thunder Up

2011-05-20T10:18:00.000-05:00

I know the title of this post isn't very original but who cares! Thunder upppppp! I lurve the OKC Thunder. Lurve=love for those of you who don't know.

I was fortunate enough to go to a few games last season with that one guy I dated. Can't remember his name :)
Anywho, my love for Kevin Durant begin right there in the Ford Center. Even though I was supposed to not like him for killing us in college bball, I couldn't help but love to watch him play. I also loved watching Westbrook play, who has been a bit of a hot topic lately. They say he is selfish with the ball and out of control when he drives the lane. Maybe that is why I like him. You see, when I was just a wee little girl in high school, I wasn't the strongest or best player but I always tried to drive the lane and get the foul. I was out of control and literally threw the ball at the goal. It went in maybe 5% of the time. That is prob why I was considered the best defensive player, not offensive! Ha!

I am loving that the Thunder are doing so well in the playoffs and was glued to the TV for the whole series with Memphis. I knew Dallas would be a tough series, especially against Dirk. And Dirk came out strong the first game! The Thunder came back and won game 2 by 4 pts. Durant had a nasty dunk against them and a picture of it quickly made the rounds on Twitter last night:

His head is literally almost at rim height!

Thunder comes home for game 3 in OKC. And in my opinion, Perkins should ride the bench. He is a total jerk who likes to start trouble. He gets called for foul and everytime he gets this look on his face like "what did I do". So annoying. Harden is the best bearded player in the league. And Serge Ibaka has the best jumps, and he ain't too bad on the eyes either.

Video Overload

2011-05-18T12:46:00.000-05:00

I have some hilarious videos from this past weekend (courtesy Jordyn Heathcock for most of it) but for some reason they won't load on Blogger.

I will just provide the link to each one so you can see them on Youtube:

Jordyn is 2
Jack & Jill Went Up the Hill
Jordyn's Version of the ABC's
Lauren Bike Ride- Triathlon
Allison Bike Ride-Triathlon
Pappy and Allison playing the Wii

2 Triathlons and a 2 year old

2011-05-17T10:00:00.000-05:00

This past weekend we went to Edmond to watch Lauren and Allison participate in triathlons for the YMCA and to celebrate Jordy's 2nd birthday, which was on May 4th.

Since the pool was too cold, they had them run, bike, run. This made me less nervous for them since the last time Lauren did this, she was changing clothes and putting on her shoes after the swim and none of the volunteers were helping her and she tripped on her shoelace and skinned her knee. She was fine and didn't cry, but it pained me to watch it on video.

So Lauren went first and of course did awesome. She moves with such grace..even when she is playing a sport. And she is such a rule follower. She rode her bike a little too far on her last lap cause she thought she had to go back over the timing mat so it would clock her.

Allison got to watch Lauren with us, and then about halfway through, Erin took her and got her all checked in. This was Allison's first tri, and we all knew she would do great. Girl has such a natural athletic talent to her.

Chik-fil-a catered the event so each girl got a chicken sandwich to tear into after they finished. Lauren's calves were killing her so we massaged her little legs while we waited for Allison to start. Jordyn loved watching the girls! Allison won first place in the girls division...and actually had the best overall time. Rock on!

Concentrating on her coloring

OSU attire is a must-wear on Saturday

Waiting to blow out her 2 candles (look at her sweet hands)

Weeden, Blackmon, Bullet, and Pete

2011-05-12T10:03:00.000-05:00

Boone Pickens Stadium

My mom and I decided this year we would not be missing out on another season of OSU football in Stillwater. While my entire family enjoys the experience, my brother and his wife created three small Heathcock's and that makes it a little more (lot more) difficult to make it to all the home games. So last year we didn't get season tickets. But this year, my mom and I decided we would buy 4 tickets and we could use the extra one on whatever lucky soul we choose. My dad, mom, and I will use 3 of them each home game and my brother will get first dibs on the 4th ticket. Rowdy Red will have access to it as well. My sister in law will also be able to get her hands on it. Or we could take Lauren or Allison. They are actually fun to go to the games with because they know what is happening and actually care of OSU is winning.

Anyway, this brings me to another topic. Rowdy Red has never been to an OSU football game. I mean, why would he? He isn't from here and he hasn't had an all access pass to events until I came around. I am proud to say that he does wear an OSU golf hat with the adorable Swingin' Pete on it.


This is not Rowdy Red. But this is the hat he has. Points for anyone who knows who this is...

For any OSU football lovers..here is the schedule:

09/03/11	vs. Louisiana-Lafayette	Stillwater, OK	TBA
09/08/11	vs. Arizona	Stillwater, OK	7:00 p.m. CT
09/17/11	at Tulsa	Tulsa, OK	TBA
09/24/11	at Texas A&M	College Station, TX	TBA
10/08/11	vs. Kansas	Stillwater, OK	TBA
10/15/11	at Texas	Austin, TX	TBA
10/22/11	at Missouri	Columbia, MO	TBA
10/29/11	vs. Baylor	Stillwater, OK	TBA
11/05/11	vs. Kansas State	Stillwater, OK	TBA
11/12/11	at Texas Tech	Lubbock, TX	TBA
11/18/11	at Iowa State	Ames, IA	TBA
12/03/11	vs. Oklahoma	Stillwater, OK	TBA

The next order of business is to purchase at least one new OSU shirt for this season! Oh, and of course pay my mom for my ticket :)

I want to...

2011-05-02T11:19:00.000-05:00

do more with my life.

This post has been a long time coming. I was talking with Rowdy Red last night about what I want to do with my life. And while there are some people that can say exactly what they want to do..I can't. I was telling him about how I don't get much fulfillment from my current job. Which can easily create a salty attitude towards my day to day life.

There are some days that I feel like I am waiting for life to start. Not that my life isn't fulfilling, but I feel like I have conquered this level (pretend this is a video game) and I am ready for the next challenge. If this were Super Mario Brothers, I would be fighting to get to the princess in the castle but I am stuck stomping mushrooms everyday.

I just feel like I need a little more. I know God's timing isn't the same as mine so I need to make changes/additions to my life in order to feel fulfilled. I wake up everyday to go to a job that doesn't ever leave me feeling very proud of myself. When I worked with kids, even if it was a tough day, I knew that I made a difference in some little 2 year old life. And everyday I had some hilarious story of what one of the kids said.

So I guess my point is this..I can either continue on this path and maybe volunteer in some aspect that will involve kids, or I can start looking for a new job that involves kids. Teaching...maybe. Social work...no. Adoption...dream job.

Royal Wedding Coverage

2011-04-29T14:12:00.001-05:00

I've got Royal Wedding fever! While I did not wake up at 4 AM like my mother to watch the wedding, I did immediately turn it on when I got up at 6:30. And they were replaying the ceremony and it was lovely. What a British word...lovely. I'm sure there is enough TV/internet coverage for everyone, but let me post some of my favorite pics so far....

The 8 tier cake

The crowd. Wow.

Kate arriving. Sweet moment between sisters.

The kiss seen 'round the world.


Married. Look at the lace on the dress.

So, tell me your thoughts on the dress? I loved it. A lot. While I won't be wearing sleeves in my wedding, I love the lace. I wish the skirt was slightly more full on her dress. But she looks perfect. And she has such a sincere smile. She seems nice. Maybe we can be friends one day.

On to other things, last night we went to the Bob Seger concert. At 65 years old, he still rocks. Rowdy's parents had a great time.

Below is a picture that makes me happy. Jackie made lemon cheesecake at book club Tuesday night. And her mom brought fresh berries to add to it. Heaven.

I fell yesterday at my house walking up the stairs and have a huge blue bruise/knot on my leg. Just in time to wear a dress to a nice dinner tonight. Good one, Heather.

Tomorrow afternoon I get to meet my new buddy Max Madrid, new baby boy to Mindy and Alfredo, and also at the shower will be Piper, Drew and Lindsey's new little girl. I love little babies. I might steal one or both of them.

And tomorrow night we are going to see Craig Ferguson at the Hard Rock. Rowdy Red's parents last night in town before the long haul back to Pitt.

P.S.- I got to take 2 slices of this lemon cheesecake home and gave one to the roomie and I have been taking one bite a day on mine since Tuesday. I want it to last forever. And ever.

Anne Boleyn

2011-04-27T11:00:00.001-05:00

As I have mentioned before, we just read The Other Boleyn Girl in our book club. I loved this book. I saw the movie years ago and couldn't really remember what all happened. I knew she was beheaded in the end of the book, and yet I still could not put it down.

Here are some facts about Anne Boleyn:

* She was 34 when she was executed.
* She became King Henry's wife after her sister Mary had already been his mistress and had 2 children with him (allegedly).
* Anne gave birth to Elizabeth, Henry's daughter in 1533.
*In 1534, Anne gave birth to a still born baby. The book describes the baby as "a monster". It is not know if this child was a boy or girl.
*Anne's first love was Henry Percy.
* Anne and Henry's marriage was annulled before she was executed, so she was not considered queen when she died.
* Anne was accused of incest with her brother, George. George's wife, Jane, testified to the incest even though she had no evidence.

Rainy Easter Weekend

2011-04-25T09:59:00.001-05:00

Man, we needed this rain. But I think we all could have gone without the torrential downpour of rain yesterday, all day. I'm sure it was worse for all the people that had kiddos and Easter egg hunts planned. I got to spend my day inside painting and doing other house stuff. As you know, Rowdy Red's (I keep accidentally giving away his name, so this moniker may soon go bye bye) (also, as if most of you don't already know his name, duh). Anyway, where was I?? Oh yeah, the parentals are in town from Pittsburgh and they are getting his house into tip top shape. Nothing was really wrong, just some home improvement stuff that a young lad of 29 will put off for months and months until his parents come in and force him to do it. Yesterday we:

* took down the pool table
* took out the track lights in the kitchen
* took down the pool table light
* painted the ceiling in the den

Saturday we:

*cleaned and drained the hot tub
* cleaned the outside ceiling fans on the patio and cleaned all the furniture
* fixed the latch on the front screen door
* hung pictures

We used this awesome Valspar paint that goes on lavender and dries white so you can see where you have painted. This is only the second time I have ever painted, and I must say I did a pretty good job.

He is working today for a bit and his parents are replacing a ceiling fan in the spare bedroom, putting a ceiling fan where the pool table light was, and replacing the track lights that were in the kitchen. They are also painting the den walls. I really kind of enjoy home improvement stuff, and it is even better when there are 4 hands on deck.

Mary Lou cooked Easter dinner last night: roast, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn and rolls. This week will be busy with more home improvement stuff, book club, work event that I am planning, Bob Seger concert, the royal wedding, and a baby shower on Sat.
If you haven't read The Other Boleyn Girl, you need to. I can't put it down.

Meet the Parents

2011-04-22T14:33:00.000-05:00

Yep. The time has come. Rowdy Red's parentals rolled into town about noon today. All the way from Pittsburgh. As I mentioned last time, this will be the first time that I will be meeting parents in a setting like this. They are from out of town and will be staying at Kyle's house.

I think they are out golfing right now and I will be going over for dinner tonight. I'm taking a bottle (or 2) of wine :)

10 Year High School Reunion

2011-04-18T10:11:00.002-05:00

My 10 yr reunion is approaching and unlike most people, I have no interest in going. Well, on a scale of 0-10, I am about a 1. Here's why:

* My class (Class of 2001) sucked. I went to Ft. Gibson from preschool until I graduated. You would think I would have a really cool network of friends after that long in a school. But nope. I still talk to 1 person from high school. And that one person is a guy.Wait, maybe 2. If random texts from your high school boyf count.
* I was closer to the class ahead of me and the class below me.
* There are several girls from my class that are still in contact. And not with me. I don't really have anything in common with these girls. They engaged in activities that I had no interest in and to be honest, weren't always the nicest to me.
* Plenty of them stayed in Fort Gibson and got married and had babies (not always in that order). I wouldn't say I hate FTG, but mark my words: I will never live there again. My parents have a wonderful house there and that is the only reason I ever go back.
* Facebook. Don't we really get all the info we need from Facebook anyway?

I really hate to sound like such a downer about this topic. Recently, a girl from my high school that I have known for years and years, has been writing on people's facebook walls begging them to make sure they have sent their information in for the reunion. And I find it just so ridiculous. Which may not be fair on my part. Maybe she really is excited to see these people. I just can't seem to get on board.

The details of the event aren't out yet, so I am still up in the air about it. I have a slight feeling that I wouldn't be missed if I didn't go. Am I the only one that is this disinterested in their high school reunion?

2011-04-11T16:21:00.000-05:00

This past weekend is a blur, like most weekends. But I can't complain since I got to do all kinds of fun things. Oh, you want to hear all about them? Sure thing!

Friday night was the Kings of Leon concert. Elaina and I saw KOL in October 2009 at ACL in Austin and loved loved loved them. They were at the BOk center and I am pretty sure all of Tulsa was at this concert. Thanks to Sammi we had awesome seats. I forgot my camera cord so I can't post my pics. Elaina, Amanda and I went to Casa Laredo downtown at 6:30 and waited til about 7:20 to get a table. Jenn came and met us, we scarfed down our food and made it to the BOk just in time to get some drinks and find our seats. Actually, I was the last in line and they turned the lights down and I just stood on the stairs in the dark for a good 5 min staring, hoping to recognize Elaina's hair so I could find our seats.

Saturday was a busy, busy day. Rowdy Red and I went to a wedding reception for a couple that I know. It was hot outside and windy but the house was beautiful. It was right off of the Southern Hills golf course. As I told Elaina earlier, I am not a fan of outdoor reception/weddings.I don't do heat well, and my face tends to start sweating a more rapid rate than an Olympic downhill skier. And it was windy, and the tables kept tipping over and shattering vases. While they can be beautiful, I will be having my reception indoors. With air conditioning.

After the reception, we went to eat dinner with my parents, my grandma and The Circus (Bryan, Erin, Lauren, Allison, Jordyn). Lauren promptly put herself in a seat by Rowdy Red and Allison found her place next to me. It's so sweet to see Lauren and Red bonding. Especially since she usually would prefer my male companions be non-existent. Jordyn even smiled at him and said his name out loud so he could hear. He's making progress!

After we ate, got froyo (CherryBerry) and supported them by purchasing delicious Otis Spunkmeyer cookies for school, we got a movie and plopped ourselves on the couch for the rest of the evening.

We did yard work Sunday. He did more than me. Once he started mowing, I took that chance to run a few errands. He had to leave for Ardmore about 6 PM so he had to get everything done in time to watch the Masters before he left. I napped. It was glorious.

This week/weekend seems to be shaping up nicely. Kickball Thurs, dinner with Tasha and Wendi Friday, hair appt Sat afternoon.

Happy Birthday, Lauren

2011-04-04T16:32:00.000-05:00

Lauren Noel Heathcock was born 4-4-04. I remember the day well. I also remember the day Bryan and Erin told me they were pregnant. They said they weren't gonna find out what they were having, but from the very moment she was pregnant, I just knew it was a girl. She has brought so much joy to my life. She is often told she looks like me (and my mom) and she loves it. She loves her Aunt Heather. And I wouldn't have it any other way.

She is sweet and thoughtful. Careful with her actions, thinks things through. Loves to be a big sister. Wants to please others. Has the best little girl laugh. Grabs my hand at the most unexpected moments. We used to have the best time laughing in bed when I was in college and would go stay the night with her. She used to cry and Bryan would have to literally peel her arms off of me when she had to leave me. She loves her Momma and Daddy and her doggies.

All this talk about her and I miss her. I just saw her Sat, but I would give anything to live 10 minutes away so I could see them all the time. Bryan and Erin would probably have to kick me out of the house though!

Happy Birthday to the most special little lady! I can't believe you are 7 years old!

General Stuff

2011-03-30T09:44:00.000-05:00

Not much to report today, but I just felt like blogging. Is it because I don't want to work? Probably. Is it because I haven't found anything interesting on the internet to entertain me? Maybe Is it to avoid online shopping and spending money I should save? Absolutely

I ran a 5k this past weekend and completed it in my fastest time yet, 28:19! It was cold and drizzling and I went into it thinking I could run it well. And I did. And I scored a really delicious dinner cooked by Rowdy Red as soon as it was over. The run was at 6:45 PM, something I have never done, and I haven't decided yet if I like that better or not than the morning runs.

Deeya is still having a hard time feeling at home, but she did get to get out on a field trip to Walgreen's with me on Sunday. And Monday she ventured up to the club house to eat breakfast. She may or may not have gotten lost on her way back home, but at least she tried and stopped to ask for help.

Kickball returns tomorrow and we have 2 players coming back this season that are really good. This could be our season to win it all (fingers crossed, people!)

This Saturday, I will be going to Edmond to watch some little girl soccer, chase Jordyn around, and eat a birthday dinner for Lauren. Her birthday is April 4th and she is going to be 7. I cannot wrap my head around that. 7 years old. Look for a special birthday blog post for my girl!

April is approaching quickly and feels like it is going to be a busy one.

* Rowdy Red's parents are coming for 10 days. Not only will I be meeting them for the first time, it will be the first time I have had a boyfriend that is "hosting" his parents from out of town.

* Kings of Leon concert with my girls!

* Kara and Shawn wedding.

* Louie's birthday. You all may know Louie's at the fella that married my cousin Katie. He's swell.

* Remember the 10 run in Stillwater. Still deciding about whether or not I will run it this year/

* Work Sales/Service event at Andy B's bowling alley.

*Madrid (as in Alfredo and Mindy) baby shower. Due to the Feb snow, we had to postpone and now we are lucky enough to get to actually meet the baby at the shower. I told her I plan on stealing the baby.

And the event of all events in April. The royal wedding of William and Kate. Check back for more details...maybe I should take off work that day....

Weekend Recap

2011-03-22T09:47:00.000-05:00

This past weekend was a blur. Mostly because I spent a better portion of it being sick. I started to feel achy on Thursday at work. And I know that is never a good sign for me. When my neck starts to ache and feels sore, I know I have something a'brewin. My throat started to hurt and by Friday night, I was running a fever. I woke up in the middle of the night shivering. It's a running joke in my family that I am sick most of the time, and my cousin Zach thinks I have confused the two. He thinks I am not really sure anymore when I am sick vs when I feel normal.
The family was in town to help my grandma move into her new apartment at a retirement village type place. I knew I wasn't going to be much help but I got up and showered and took about 1.5 hours to get ready since I had to keep taking breaks to rest and lay down. I finally made it Claremore at 11:45 and promptly placed myself on the couch. I stayed there until my brother told me to get up so they could load it in the Uhaul and then I moved to the carpet where I fell asleep. I had taken 4 Advil and by the time I woke up, drank some water and ate food, I started to feel like a human again. Allison looked in my throat with a flashlight at one point and got grossed out by the white spots on my tonsils.

We ordered pizza and hung out at Deeya's new place that evening and Rowdy Red came over to meet some more of the family. He kept telling Deeya how good she had it compared to what his grandma is experiencing in her living situation.
Deeya is having some trouble adjusting to her new place. She is scared and confused and doesn't know where anything is. Which I told her is normal for anyone who moves, but she is 77 and just wants to know where her stuff is and doesn't feel like looking for it, or taking the time to arrange things the way they were. She is much closer to me now and I feel better that I can go over there at any time if she needs something.
Please say a prayer that she starts feeling more comfortable in her new home.

Erin took the girls to see her friends twin babies on Saturday while the grown ups were doing the move. These sweet babies are a blessing to Brooke and Brett, who have waited so long for them!

Lent

2011-03-10T10:41:00.000-06:00

The talk 'round town is what everyone is giving up for Lent. In college, I lived with a Catholic girl (hey Nat!) that always practiced Lent. She usually gave up meat. My roomie now is not Catholic but she usually gives up something for Lent. In the years past, she has given up Diet Dr. Pepper. This year she is not giving something up, but adding a daily Bible reading. I thought this was a great idea. I decided that I need to have a 10 minute quiet/prayer time everyday. I usually pray when I go to bed, but I always end up falling asleep. So this morning, I prayed while I was blow drying my hair. I can't hear the TV during this time and it is a great time to focus on what I would like to pray about before my day starts. I really enjoyed this time and plan to make this a new addition to my morning routine.

Yesterday, I saw on Facebook that a friend of Rowdy Red was giving up Facebook for Lent. And I thought was the best thing I have ever heard. I seem to have a love/hate relationship with Facebook. Facebook can be a great tool for sharing info/pics, writing silly inside jokes on your friends walls, and reconnecting with old friends. But Facebook also has a level of stalker in it. I can see anything that anyone writes on any of my friends walls, including my boyf. And hypothetically, what if a female from high school or childhood or college writes on his wall, a female I don't know, and I start thinking, who are you and why are you talking to him? That seems crazy, right? While crazy, it seems inevitable. Jealousy is a natural reaction and is ok when tamed. But when one can sit behind a screen and peruse old photos of people that used to be in a relationship, and let their mind go crazy, it is not ok. And it is not just my boyf that can cause this hate relationship with Facebook. It is old friends, or my ex's, or co-workers who snoop too much and then send me creepy messages telling me how nice I look (oops, did I just say that out loud).

Anyway Facebook, while I love you and you keep me entertained and informed, maybe I need to be less informed. So I am going to check Facebook less, and not just for Lent.

Tomorrow, Rowdy Red and I are going to the Thunder game with Sammi and Clark and riding in a limo to the game. How did we score this, you might ask. Well, I don't exactly know, but I ain't complaining! Sammi got us the tickets (thank you, Sam!) and I believe Clark's friends are the limo-ers. I am excited. This will be the 2nd time in my life to ride in a limo. Rowdy Red made fun of that little fact, but honestly there weren't many reasons to take a limo in Ft. Gibson.

Today is my sister-in-law Erin's birthday. I would like to give a shout out to the best sister-in-law I could ever ask for. Love you, E!


Summer 2008

OSU football 2010

Things I Need (Ok, Want)

2011-03-09T10:25:00.000-06:00

I love to shop. Probably too much. I have a closet full of clothes, and yet I am always wanting to buy more. I do a fairly good job of getting rid of things I don't want. I do wish, however, that I could find a resale shop that paid decent. Plato's Closet is one of the ones I have used before and they are cheap and don't offer you much for your stuff. Anyway, here are some things below that I would like at this moment in my life:

Belt: Forever 21

Shirt: Gap

Dress: Forever 21

Braided Sandals: Forever 21

Nude pump: Piperlime

Nude Wedges: Forever 21
Definitely too tall for me, but I still love 'em


Polka Dot Pumps: Forever 21 I don't necessarily need/want these, but aren't they cutie?

Slim Pants: Gap
Perfect for work, with some sandals/flats

One Shoulder Ruffle Dress: Target

White Jeans: Gap
I have always had a love affair with white jeans

I am also on the hunt for a new pair of black pumps. My old ones, which really aren't that old, have gotten too big. Like so big that they fall off my feet. They can't be too tall, too pointy, too rounded, too expensive...you get the gist. Happy shopping!