Tammi's World

Not Takin' the SUBWAY Any More

I saw this over at SWWBO's place and blew a fuse.

**Note to self - no more yelling in the office while family is visiting. Giving sister a heart attack will NOT score points with Mom**

Seriously - Subway has lost my business. And you can bet your sweet ass I'm going to pass this along.

Not Fair

Well today is gonna be interesting. My sister and neice wanted to do Daytona. I'm behind on store calls so we are going to kill 2 birds with 1 stone. They will ride with me to Daytona and hang out on the beach, playing with jet ski's and such. I will run stores.

Something is wrong with that picture. Can't put my finger on it, but I'll figure it out as soon as I finish this coffee.

The goal is for me to finish my runs so that I can then go and watch them parasail. I will NOT be participating on that one any more than cheering and taking pictures. I have no desire to be pulled behind a speed boat while floating in the air. No, not at all. Not gonna happen, not in this life time.

So they are changing into swim suits and beach attire, I sit here in my skirt and sensible top. They'll be wearing flip flops and sandles, I'll have on heels. Their faces will be aglow with anticipation and excitment. Me? I'm wearing make-up.

It's Saturday. I wanna play too!!!

Saturday Question of the Day

Every Saturday I'll try to come up with some "out there" question that just makes you stop and think about something not so important. Think of it as a mini vacation. If you have any ideas drop me a line and we'll throw it in here. Who knows, it might be fun.

OK - Here goes:

What was your favorite game growing up?

Mine was and is a card game called Dutch Blitz. (I can't believe I found a website for it!!)

It's a very fast paced card game that (when playing with me) get's very rowdy, almost - and I said almost - violent.

It's simple. You have a special deck of cards. They seperate into 4 groups, buggys, pumps, buckets and wheel barrows. There are four colored groups of numbers, red, yellow, green and blue. You have your working hand on the table and your counting cards in your hand and you slap (in numberical order by color) the cards on the table. The goal is to be the first thru your "blitz" pile and yell BLITZ. (the website is better at describing than I am)

I LOVE THIS GAME. It moves incredibly fast and you have to look at everything at one time. Speed is king and I have only lost one game in my adult life. To my little sister (that sucked). Oh, I've lost hands, but never games.

I don't remember NOT someone playing this game. For generations it has been what we do after meals and such at family gatherings. It's loud, it's fast and it's fun. My one cousin's husband designed a deck that the cards are 3 ft long and is played on the floor. I can't play that one. I end up hurting someone.

We have family game nite. Before I moved we would gather at my cousins house with her kids and play, laugh and curse. Oh and laugh. Did I mention laughing? Cause we laugh - a lot.

Anyway - What was/is your favorite game?

Funny Email

No additional words are needed.

Thanks to my friend for this gem!!

Amish In The City

I did get a chance to see a bit of the premier show. I'll admit, not bad. Not nearly as bad as I was afraid it would be.

I loved where they had the city kids wear the clothes. I just wish they would have made them follow all the rules. The earrings and such kind of pulled away from it all.

That part actually reminded me of an story from my life. I used to take my car and head up to my cousin's house of the weekend. She wasn't Amish but she was conservative Mennonite, so very strict dress code and such. She is a beautiful girl, no matter what she wore. Anyway, I'd pick her up and we'd head to the first gas station. She would change out of her regular duds and change into an outfit I would bring from home. I've never been a real conservative dresser so she went from beautiful to down right HOT.

We'd cruise around, hit a few parties and then get back to the station, change and get home within an hour of cerfew. I once made the statement that I didn't think she'd stay Mennonite. Never gave a reason, but I knew how much she enjoyed those nights out. Now? She's still conservative and we never talk about those times. Oh, and her daughters don't get away with anything - Mom's already done it and knows all the tricks.

Anyway - I loved it when they went to the beach. Ruth's reaction was not unexpected at all, in my opinion. I remember the first time all of us cousins went and several of them reacted the same way.

Mose rocks!!! And listening to him talk is like music to my ears. I love the accent. (I do a great immitation).

I really look forward to being able to watch the whole thing next week. I'll be able to watch it with my sister, so it should stir a bit of memories and conversation.

My .02 worth!

I'm Back!!

**yawn, stretchhhhhhh** Good morning!!

Well, I made it home and I'm so tired. We had a great meeting and I'm really excited about what we learned this week. The one thing that stood out? I thought I've been busy?!? The next 5 months will be about the toughest in my professional life. And trust me, that's not an over statment. We've got another meeting next week, this time in Waycross. My poor family - my neice thinks I don't want them here because I keep leaving. But I'm working part of today so I can spend Saturday and Sunday with them.

I did watch a bit of the convention last nite. The only thing I saw was the film. I had to turn it off. My neice told me it wasn't nice to curse at the TV and wouldn't I feel bad if "that guy" became President. My response? "Well, we'll just have to make sure enough people vote for President Bush to keep that from happening." She agreed. Smart girl.

Thanks to all for the Birthday wishes. At the meeting I had 200 sales reps sing the H.B. song and literally cover me in "silly string". They emptied 7 cans on me. I'm still finding it in places it shouldn't be. We had our team dinner at Dave and Busters so I did let the inner child come out, but we had our big presentations the next morning so I didn't play too much!

By the way - I was voted best presenter in my group again. So I guess it was worth waiting to play!! I do love to present and train. Love it Love it Love it. And it shows. No matter how poorly I feel, when I get up there it all falls away and I'm just laser focused on the group. What a rush!

Anyway - this is just a post to let you all know I'm still here! I'm trying to catch catch up on all the great postings out there. Wow - 2 days out and I've got a good bit of reading to do. Ya'll have been busy.

Altanta

Greetings from Atlanta. Damn, I'm tired. You know I'm still not 100% when I leave dinner and go straight to bed!! They have us share rooms on these bigger meetings, so I'm not only adjusting to having someone around all the time, but trying to coordinate sleep/showers and such with a stranger. Yuck.

Anyway - Last nights dinner was great! Has anyone eatten at the Goldfish here? Yummy. Seafood - about the best I have had. I wish I could have enjoyed it. :-(

Today is meetings meetings meetings. And then tonite, meetings meetings meetings.

I am hoping to catch a few minutes to myself, but I feel so disconnected. No news, minimum internet! I feel like it's the 80's!! Heavens, I hope I haven't stepped into a time warp. All I need is a "big hair" day and I'm in serious trouble.

Anyway - you all have a wonderful day. I'll pop in and out to check on what's going on!! Wish me luck!!!!

Holy Crap!!

According to THIS I'm as old as PANTY HOSE!!!

Hey - that's not funny damnit!! Stop laughing, I mean it.

God I hate Birthdays.

This is NOT Right!

So after writing the soft, mushy post before this I head on over to see what my friend Noble Eagle has to say. Oh My Goodness.

Damn blogspot won't let me link directly to the story, but click here and scroll down to "FOR THE (PRO-CHOICE) WOMAN WHO HAS EVERYTHING". WARNING - You Will Get Pissed Off. Really you will.

Seems planned parenthood has a little something for those that choose to use "alternative methods" of birth control.

Yeah, they are offerint T-shirts that proudly proclaim "I Had an Abortion". Yeah can you friggin' believe that. Yeah for the bargain price of $15 you can sell your dignity!

I'm enraged. I'm getting off the computer now before I hurt someone.

Good Things

So my sister and neice got here last night. I made a simple but yummy dinner (yellow rice, chicken and black beans) and we all sat down to enjoy it. Way back when I first started blogging I wrote about the family table. Man was that hammered home last nite!

They arrived around 7:30pm and we got all the hugging and stuff out of the way. After a brief tour of the house I start to put dinner on the table.

As we sit there talking about their trip (my neice HATES to fly) and catching up on what's happened since I was home I had one of the "moments". You know, the kind where you see everything from outside the situation. I saw the three of us sitting at the table, laughing and talking. My neice watching every move I made, my sister telling stories and making me laugh. It was very cool. It felt very good.

So Dawn asks how many dinner parties or pool parties I've had. None. WHAT?! Well, it's been a little busy, and I haven't been 100% for a while now. So yeah, none.

My neice took over. She wants to pick out the floating candles for the pool and the other stuff I want for the deck area. She is hell bent that I have a BBQ and housewarming party. So being the Take Charge gal that she is (wonder where she got THAT from!) she started making plans while my sister I and sat and finished our fruit.

But what really got me is how good it felt to have people in the house. I didn't even mind the fact that I had to watch Teenage Girl TV. In fact, I actually kinda enjoyed it.

The TV was blaring, everyone was talking - noise noise noise. Laughter laughter laughter.

But the best part of all, was sitting around that kitchen table and just being a family. It felt really good.

THIS IS WHY..

I keep mentioning the blog MY WAR:

"Last night in the middle of the night (03:30am) I woke up to a very loud explosion. At first thought it was another bad dream, but my roommate also heard it and woke up, and said "Hey, did you hear that?!" Yea, I told him. We stayed up for a couple minutes silently after that, wondering what the hell was that, and then we both went back to sleep. We later found out that it was an IED. This morning we all went to breakfast and when we returned I dropped a dose of a malaria pill (today's malaria Monday) and went to my room. Shortly after that my squad leader banged on my door and said that our PLT just got placed on QRF (Quick Reaction Force) and to stand by and be ready to go at any minute, today might be another 24th of June. The main gate to the airfield to our FOB just got hit by a Vehicle Borne IED (car bomb) and there's mass casualties. We later found out and there wasn't as many casualties as was first originally thought, several dead, and a handful wounded. The vehicle borne IED was a toyota pickup with a female driver. The airfield here also got mortared several times today."

It doesn't get any realer than that folks. It doesn't get any more timely either. If you aren't making MY WAR a daily stop, you should.

It's Time

Things may be a bit spotty (blogging wise) for the next week.

I'm feeling a bit better, just still so tired. Bone Tired.

My sister and niece arrive tonite and will be here through the 7th of August.

I've got to leave for Atlanta tomorrow for more training.

I haven't been in a store for a week. My customers think I've fallen off the face of the planet.

Gee - I got a bit to catch up on.

Oh, I'll be checking in, and I've got a few posts in the hopper so there will be a little somethin' somethin' each day. Plus - this is my escape. My little getaway. I can't just STOP! I just won't get to indulge myself as I like.

Damn, sometimes being a grown-up really sucks!!!!!

Football Alert

Wow. Do I know some Dolphin's fans that are freaking out!!! Ricky Williams, running back extrodinaire has announced his retirement.

The timing is just so bad for the Fins on this. George just went to Dallas so he's not available and we are just "that far" away from training camp.

I do admire the fact that Ricky never let the game rule his life. He made this decision because he can. He's got the money. He wants to enjoy his life.

But man will I miss wathcing that guy play!!

**btw - I'm not a Dolphin fan At All. I just appreciate talent.

Look Before You Leap

In this article from the San Fransico Chronicle I found this paragraph near the end:

For most Filipino opinion-makers -- and from the standpoint of the Philippines' national interest -- pulling out of Iraq was not a "wrong signal" to terrorists. The wrong signal was to send a troop contingent to begin with, which only served to militarize the longstanding and purely civilian Filipino presence in the Middle East and made it a likely target of terrorist attacks.

My thought? If you don't have the fortitude to follow thru, if you haven't examined all the possible consequenses and considered what you can accept, than you shouldn't take action in the first place.

They've done more harm than good at this point.

Just a Thought

I'm not going to do a indepth post on the Annie Jacobsen article. Nope, not gonna go there. So many wonderful bloggers have done insightful pieces and I've participated in the comment conversations there. This isn't about THAT incident, it's a product of the thought process.

I have just one question. We are in a Global War on Terror. After 9/11 this country united in a way it hasn't in decades. We have asked our Military to go and confront this danger, this evil. We, as citizens, are expecting our government to make our land a safer place. What are WE doing? If we are asking our troops to put it all on the line, what are we willing to do? Isn't a bit of embarrassment from over reacting a little thing? Isn't having to say "I'm sorry - but your actions concerned me", a small enough price to pay.

There's no such thing as a free ride.

You Have to Read This

I don't care that it's Monday and everyone is busy. You need to take the time to read this piece.

Kat at The Middle Ground has heard the liberals say the war in Iraq is just stirring up a hornets nest one too many times. So - this is her version.

Settle back with your coffee or soda and prepare to have a really great read.

Happy Birthday

Well it seems it's ALA71's birthday. What? You haven't met her yet. Well let me introduce you. She has a wonderful blog that I just discovered over at Moby Rebuttal and last night's post is a great way to get to know her.

She's articulate and focused. Conservative and centered. In other words - she has something to say and says it very well.

Go and introduce yourself and wish her a Very Happy Birthday!!!

Teresa sends a warning!! Seems

Teresa sends a warning!!

Seems there's yet ANOTHER virus out there folks. Be Careful For Cryin' Out Loud!!!

Here For The Party

I saw something like this over at Dana's and when I heard this song I thought - I NEED to do that, that thing with the links.

Yes, it's another Gretchen Wilson song, but hey - It's perfect!!! I wanted to set it up where you could listen to the song while you read. But no. After Eric of SWG explained it all - no. I love ya'll, but I'm not burnin' up my bandwidth for something like this. If you haven't heard the song, click on the artist sight, it'll give you a teaser!

I also want to thank my Blogfather Harvey for taking to time to help me out - you need to be real careful when you use the words "if you need my help" around me. Thanks Harv!! You da Man!!!!

So here goes, hope you like it!!

Here for the Party
By Gretchen Wilson

Well, I'm an eight ball shooting double fisted drinking son of a gun
I wear my jeans a little tight
Just to watch the little boys come undone
I'm here for the beer and the ball busting band
Gonna get a little crazy just because I can

You know I'm here for the party
And I'm not leaving till they throw me out
Gonna have a little fun gonna get me some
You know I'm here, I'm here for the party

I may not be a ten but the boys say I clean up good
And if I gave em half a chance
For some rowdy romance you know they would
I've been waiting all week just to have a good time
So bring on them cowboys
and their pick up lines

You know I'm here for the party
And I'm not leaving till they throw me out
Gonna have a little fun gonna get me some
You know I'm here, I'm here for the party

Don't want no purple hooter shooter just some Jack on the Rocks
Don't mind me if I start that trashy talk

You know I'm here for the party
And I'm not leaving till they throw me out
Gonna have a little fun gonna get me some
You know I'm here, I'm here for the party

Sometimes Dreams Come True

I was taking a break from "puttering" and happened to find one of my all time favorite movies in life on - Working Girl. As I've mentioned in an earlier post, I HAVE to watch this movie if I come across it. I own it - both tape and DVD and I still will stop my channel surfing and settle back if I see it on T.V.

Just what is it that I love so much about this movie? It's the last few scenes, that's what.

I love that the lead character is a secretary hell bent on making it over that chasim between clerical and management. I love the way she thinks, completely out of the box. I love her courage and fortitude. I'll even admit that I get chills during the scene where she meets the woman she thought will be her boss, but ends up being her assistant. When she calls the girls she used to work with to tell them she made the leap - well, let's just say I can see myself doing that in a heart beat.

I have worked very hard over the years. Taken many chances, made decisions that many couldn't understand. When I changed career paths or industries I always had to take an entry level position - usually the lowest of the clerical - and then trust that hard work and imagination would prevail. They would notice what a bright and shiny gem I am and voila - promotion.

Gotta tell you, life doesn't work like that. And because of that I've spent years in dead-end jobs, being praised and awarded but never promoted. When I would leave it was only to discover that because of where I started so many positions no one really cared about where I ended up. They couldn't see past that "staff assistant" on my resume.

It took a company that was desperate (if we're really honest) to take a chance on me. They were going through a major over-haul and needed fresh minds in positions they were creating to meet customer demands. It was luck on my part - pure and simple. Lucky that I had the opportunity to develop good relationships with some of these customers, lucky that they weren't shy about telling our management how they thought my role should play out. Lucky that my management listened.

I remember the day I made the leap, officially. The first thing I thought of was the very last scene in Working Girl. I called my friends to tell them "I made it!"

A Small Rant

You know, I do know a thing or two about customer service. Really, I do. Plus, let's face it, this hasnt' been a very good week for me. Put that together and I think I feel a bit of a rant comin' on. Brace yourself - she's typin' mad.

Friday morning my handy dandy lawn guy was here. I stepped out to give him his check and we take a moment to walk the lawn. I noticed it's really dry.
After further inspection we see where the pipe to my sprinkler system is broken AND a wire to zone two has been cut.

Well, shit.

I call the telephone company, as it had to have happened when they ran the wire for the extention in the office. I explain everything to them.

**Let's just tell you - I talk exactly like I write. When I'm working on a problem I do the whole "list" thing. 1) when you ran the line on June *$ a pipe and wire were broken. 2) no water on front, back or south side of house. 3) WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO GET THIS FIXED? (this is the key question here, and one I always end with.

Just tell me the rules, tell me what I have to do and I'll get 'er done.

So this morning I'm sitting here reading and the phone rings. It's the phone company saying the problem is fixed and thank you very much.

What?

I go outside - yes, hole still in my yard.
Turn on sprinkler system - no, still not working.

Fixed My Ass.

So I call the phone company repair line.

Guy won't let me get a word in edgewise (and that's saying something)

Finally I listen to him, let him finish and ask if he would now please take a moment to listen to ME, as I'm having the problem.

I then repeated the converstation from yesterday. He interrupted me. I asked him to please be quiet and let me finish. He does. Then he explains that the ticket entered never mentioned the broken sprinkler system, they don't fix them and then went on to explain how I need to get this handled.

Well, hell. That was why I called yesterday. I told him I'm leaving town on Tuesday, need to hear from the supervisor telling me how to bill this out no later than Monday 3:00pm. Asked him to repeat what I said, and then said it sure would be nice if everyone in that department would take a class on listening and customer service.

Hmm....maybe I should have waited for my coffee to finish brewing before I made that call. Think?!? Damn customer service people anyway.

Someone You Should Know

Blackfive has the story of a translator, working with the Army during the search for Saddam Hussein.

You'll want to read this too. He's Someone you should know.

Saturday Question of the Day

Every Saturday I'll try to come up with some "out there" question that just makes you stop and think about something not so important. Think of it as a mini vacation. If you have any ideas drop me a line and we'll throw it in here. Who knows, it might be fun.

OK - Here goes:

What is the silliest thing you've ever done?

Now I didn't say embarrassing, or stupid. I said silly. You know, something that, even now when you look back, it makes you smile.

There are any number of Silly Tammi Stories I could share (stick around long enough and you'll probably hear them anyway). Stories on things I've said or done to cheer someone up, while playing with some of the children in my life or even for some of the men in my life. This one was just plain silly and FUN.

Right after my divorce I moved to Florida and met a young lady in her mid 20's (I in my early 30's) that was like a younger, blonder verision of me. We hit it off immediately. One of our strongest bonds was our fondness for "having a good time." And it was rather legendary, if I must say so myself.

One Thursday evening, after we get done at the gym, we decide we needed to cut loose a bit. (note - to this day, I am not allowed to play on Thursday nites). But, I was tired and a little cranky and didn't want to deal with the "bar scene" so much. She had a brilliant (so we thought) idea. We would deck ourselves out and go to one of the hottest spots in Tampa. We would pretend to be models, she American, me from Italy and I couldn't speak English. That way I could dance and drink, just not deal with any crap. Didn't I tell you - Brilliant.

So we head to her place and get dressed. Now she was tall (5'11") but I'm 6'2" barefoot. So finding something to wear was gonna be a challenge. Well, lookie here. She had a little black dress covered in zippers. It had my name all over it. Put that bad boy on with a pair of 3" spikes and we were locked and loaded. Slick back the hair and paint on the face, voila - instant model.

We get to the club, already in character and they didn't even charge us cover!! She orders our drinks (remember I can't speak English) and we head for the dance floor. It was hysterical. By 1:00am I'm dancing with some college kid who is going on and on about how no one is going to believe he was dancing with an international model. All the while I'm smiling and acting like I can't understand a word he's saying. (I wonder where I put that Emmy at?) At one point, he had someone take our picture! Poor kid - hope he never runs across this blog.

Anyway - it was a great night. And to this day I gotta smile over the night that I was an International Model.

So - what's the silliest thing you've ever done?

Medal Of Honor

Jennifer Martinez introduces us to U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Paul Smith.

1st Sgt. Smith is the only Medal of Honor nominee so far in the Iraq War.

Follow the link - You'll be glad you did.

Thanks Jen.

Yikes

And I thought Chicago cops were tough!!

Just In Case

I saw this post over at Smash's the other day. It made me sick. Come on, folks - he's an athlete, not a politician. These are sporting events, not world summits.

That of course led me to thinking about the Olympics coming up. If a some what small group of people, compared to what will be at the Olympics, act like that - what in the world can we expect in Athens?!?!

So I was intrigued by this information: Olympics-NATO leaves door open for US Troops on Greek soil.

It's all very vauge and I'm really ok with that. I just like knowing that there will be AMERICAN TROOPS nearby if something goes wrong.

Well Duh!

Those were the first words I said when I saw this article online. (first two paragraphs)

Filipino truck drivers working in the Middle East are now banned from entering Iraq to prevent another kidnapping by terrorists in that country.

President Arroyo ordered the Department of Foreign Affairs Friday to ensure that Filipino truck drivers working in countries near Iraq are stopped at the border should they attempt to enter that country.

I wondered about that when I saw this headline earlier today: Undaunted, Filipinos Head for Iraq.

I mean, I think it's pretty clear that if the terrorists got what they wanted the first time, and you give them another opportunity - they're gonna do it again, expecting the same outcome.

Actually I applaude the Filipino government for realizing that yes - they've set themselves up and yes, you better keep your people out of there! They've just become one of the "sure things".

Pot-Poury

Feeling a bit better today. Thanks to all that were so concered. I really appreciate the good thoughts.

Guess what! The sun is shining. You know how I know? I actually opened the blinds and curtains. I may sit outside for a bit. Nothing like a bit of fresh air to perk a girl up.

Got some candles lit and my favorite scents in the burner. I love the way my house smells. All spicey and warm and welcoming.

My sister and youngest niece get here Monday. Glad to have the company. Plus gives me a reason to putter a little harder the next few days - gotta show off the new digs. Although with my sister and I, give us a pool, fridge, computer and TV/DVD and we could care less!!

Locks on the house will be changed today as well as a police report filed. BTW did I mention how much I like my landlords!!!

I adore Firefighters, Police and EMTs. This post over at Blackfive's only serves to remind me.

It's looking to be a pretty good day all around. Three things I'm NOT gonna do -1) Turn on the TV news 2) Feel guilty for all the work that is not being done 3) Sit in this office, hunched over a computer all day.

So - what are you NOT gonna do today?

**BTW - Harvey! This is entry 100. See I am paying attention!

Hey - I didn't invite you!

Ok - so I'm sick. I'm sittin' here feeling sorry for myself, all the windows and blinds closed and mutterin' around the house. Sleep when I can, drink if I can and generally just be in a fowl mood.

So yesterday afternoon, after just getting up from a nap, I'm sitting in the office when I hear a knock on the door. Before I even stand up the front door is being unlocked and by the time I hit the dinning room (not that far away folks) I got two men standing in my foyer.

I don't know who scared whom the most (yes, I was clothed this time) but I looked at them and asked

May I help you?

No...(looking around at broken down boxes, full boxes, empty boxes, boxes, boxes, boxes)...I live here.

Well, they've got one hell of a wait, wouldn't you say?

Finally, after more delightful conversation like this they get the idea. I'm living here FULL TIME. I have a lease. This is my home (at least for the next 18 months.)

Oh, well I don't know what to do. We have those people out there. Can I show the house?

Oh, we can only give the key to the owner. Ok - We'll go. Sorry for the mix-up.

I've lived here for 2 months now. Makes me wonder if anyone else has be "showing" the house since I moved in.

But wait, we're not done. At approx. 8:00 last night I'm again in the office and I hear the doorbell ring. As I go into the dining room I hear a key in the door.

Oh No - Not Again.

I step up to the door and put grab the handle so they can't get the door open.

Me: Hello? What do you want? (considerably less polite than previous conversation).

Oh - I'm with the management company. I'm here to change the lightbulbs.

Ok - sorry.

WTF?!?!? I fired off an e-mail to the owners and placed a call this morning to the Sr. Manager of the managment company. This house is not on their list, and he doesn't understand what happened.

I told him I want the key - he said it's a master, we'll have to change the locks. I wanted to know if anyone else had been in here, he didn't know - hell, he didn't know they had been out here yesterday. His main concern was giving out lightbulbs on houses they don't manage anymore.

Gotta tell you, the sleep factor wasn't all that great last night. I'm going to change the locks, just have to wait till I feel well enough to make the long run to Home Depot. I don't like that this happened, it's actually kinda freaky. I mean why now - 2 months after the fact.

Yeah, just another nice, quiet, run of the mill evening at the Road Warriors. I told you I wanted a dog.

Belated Response

You may remember a few weeks/months ago there was a bit of out outcry over a column by Andy Rooney claiming that our Military Men and Women were victims not heros.

Well guess what! Via snail mail this column just happened to land over in Iraq and in a Soldier's care package from home. Luckily Robert Alt, an NRO contributor, happened to be around the barracks that day and got the REAL answers to Rooney's questions from several of the Soldiers.

Go Read This! It Rocks.

I'll Be Watching...

Got this via email from blogless friend LeeAnn. Hmmm-how'd she know I'd want to see this??

Will plain Amish take a fancy to Los Angeles?
By Gary Levin, USA TODAY LOS ANGELES

Producers of Amish in the City, UPN's latest reality show, defended the show late Tuesday amid controversy that filming a group of sheltered young Amish people interacting with "city kids" Real World-style, in a swank Los Angeles house, would seem exploitative. To calm fears, the show was first screened Tuesday at the semi-annual gathering of TV critics, who seemed unoffended.

"In the show, premiering July 28 at 8 ET/PT, six city kids share a house with the five Amish, who've never flown on a plane, seen sushi or hot tubs, or practiced yoga. A culture clash ensues, both learn new tasks such as CPR — but no one gets evicted each week. "We're exposing these young adults to something they haven't seen before," says UPN entertainment president Dawn Ostroff.

First and foremost - for those that are new here, my Mother's family is Amish/Mennonite. I know a bit about this religion and the people there in. I'm not just some joe schmoe cracking a line off here.

I may not agree with many things in the Amish religion, but I do have to respect those that choose this as their way of life. It's more than just a Sunday or Saturday deal with them. It's a way of life - a difficult way of life in many ways. They live differently, dress differently, talk differently - they do a lot of things differently and in this day an age of "sameness" that says a lot.

So.....who do these "folks" (remember Tammi, religious post, hold cursing to a minimum) think they are? They are going to put 6 "worldly" kids and 5 Amish in a house together (like Big Brother only no one gets voted off) and watch what happens. OK?!?! The write up sets the stage, in my mind to some pretty strong laughs at the Amish kids expense. Yeah, many haven't flown on planes, most haven't seen hot tubs or sushi - they're AMISH for cryin' out loud.

Not only that, but you do realize that the Amish community will be kinda strapped on responding. They Don't Have Electricity. No T.V.s to watch the show, No computers to surf or post or email. No telephones. Nothing. They can't defend themselves against anything that is incorrect or shown in a light that is biased (and we all know the media can be a bit biased now, don't we). Oh and just so you know - the documentary Devil's Playground - SUCKED. I had my Mom watch it and had to hear about that for a few months. I was living in Sarasota at the time they filmed it, wish I would have known then.

Anyway - I know it will be funny. There are many times in the family that someone will say or do something and we all (all us out of it now) just look at each other and "That's so Amish". But again, we can. We're not being mean - we're being a family.

Let me explain something here. I don't like meanies. You know, those people that make fun of people in a mean way - point out their differences like they are faults, make fun of those that "don't know" instead of helping them to understand. I'm half afraid that this is what this particular show will do.

I'm reserving complete judgment until I see the show. Unfortunatly I'll be in Atlanta (health providing) at some fancy dancy dinner thingy so will have to have a friend tape it.

I realize this has now becoming a burning issue you for all of the folks out there, and I promise to stay on top of it for you! (BTW - I'll work up a post telling you about "rumspringa" in the near future.)

Finally!!

Yes yes yes, my voice is back!!! This has been pure hell for the last almost 24 hours. Yes, Tammi has been unable to communicate with the world (other than a comment or two here and there) for almost 24 hours! Please keep in mind, I'm home alone, sick and bored. Need I say more?!?!

I had to laugh over the irony of how I just got all bad and tough and said I'd be banning those that ticked me off, when WHAM - even I'm banned!! Honest folks, it was a technical difficulty. Promise. Hey - come back, come back - please!!!

Oh so much to tell you - so many things you already know but I'm gonna say it anyway.

First - Tim at Cpt. Patti says Good-bye. It won't be the same blogsphere without him. He was that one bright light, that positive note I could count on. He will be missed.

I found a new toy on my host Go Daddy. It's called Traffic Facts and it is very nice. I just found out I had it when I called the host to find out what the heck was going on. (Not them BTW). Being an analyst I love charts, graphs and numbers. With this cool thing I get a chart showing every country that has been on my site. Not only that, but I found out how off my sitemeter really is. Tracker shows 1,914 unique visitor since June 1 with a total of 2,601 total visits. Sitemeter shows 1,164 visitors as of right now. Hmmmm. Only downside is I don't get real time data - updates every 24 hours, but still. I'll keep the sitemeter up but I love this new toy.

Anyway - I've got a couple of interesting things I want to do in seperate posts, but I wanted to thank you guys for your patience and for coming back over. Comment away - it's clear now.

(Except you Mr. P Enlarger) - Oh speaking of which, check this new RUMOR out - I laughed myself silly - I found it on that site My War I mentioned the other day.

"I feel like Matt Drudge right now reporting a rumor that I heard over "Joe Radio" (Joe Radio is what we call the Rumor Mill here in the Army) but this is a humorous rumor. Repeat: RUMOR. Every couple weeks, sometimes months, the Army does a mandatory drug test, even out here in Iraq. We've had several out here so far, and the new rumor is that higher just received the results from the last drug test and it looks like a lot of soldiers in my Brigade have been taking penis enlargement pills. And those pills showed up on a lot of the last drug test results. And soon they are going to go around and get a list of all the soldiers who are taking the pills. As far as I know Penis Enlargement pills are not in violation of any Army policy or Reg. Repeat: this is just a rumor, no word if any of this is true. Story developing..." Go on read the rest.

Technology I REALLY Need

There's One, Only! brings us : OnStar(bucks) Part I and :Part II.

I gotta figure out how to get me one of these.

ESCAPEEE!!!!!

Oops, this guy must have wandered out from the little shindig we're havin' at Madfish Willies. LeeAnn?? Oh, LeeeeeAAAAAnnnnn? Oh no - she's headed off to Tennessee!!

hat tip Randy - Dude that was too funny!

**Oops - I forgot the LeeAnn Link. See, I really am sick (on several levels)

I was Being Sarcastic

A while back I wrote about my first spammer. I wasn't really happy about it, I was being sarcastic. Yeah, sometimes I do that.

So - I guess the time has finally come for me to actually write this out. (sorry for those adults out there that have the common sense to already know this.)

While I have a some what twisted and racy sense of humor, and I may be a bit "rough around the edges" sometimes, I do try and keep this a fairly clean site. If I have debauchery to get out of my system I go to Madfish Willies' place.

You see, my family does read this blog. That includes my niece. And I write just like I talk. Unfortunately, she's been privy to some of my rants - so she is aware that Aunt Tammi can make a sailor blush at times. Not something I'm proud of, just a fact of life.

So - here are the rules - Mr. Penis Enlargement, (and you others that shall remain nameless). You're banned. And I will continue to ban you everytime you sneak your crap on to my site. I am not amused and I don't appreciate you - not one little bit.

Afterall, this is MY site. My "internet home" as it were. Oh, I love to have guests, I love to entertain. But, you get out of line at my house - disrespect someone, start throwing crap - I'm gonna throw you out. I'll do that here without blinking an eye.

I'm pretty easy to get along with - just don't push my buttons. 'Nuff said.

Adventures in Blogging Part I

I haven't said anything, but I haven't been feeling well the last few days. In fact, took myself to the ER the other night, kinda scary. I'm ok - just a bit of a virus, but still - ER's alone SUCK.

But that's not what this is about. With extra time on my hands (bedrest, not what it's cracked up to be) I thought it was time to expand my horizons. I've been working on a little blog project, and in tweeking it realized I should step outside my blogroll. So.....I went steppin'.

I'm an adverterous person, most of the time. But for some reason - I have those blogs I read and I stick to them. (BTW - I've been updating my roll with what was previously on my "favorites" - ck 'em out! Still more to add) Oh - I'll click over if someone I enjoy recommends someone, but for the most part, I don't just meander around the blogsphere.

Yesterday I went to some of my favorite sites. You know, those that you check as often as possible, whose comments are always so damn thought provoking. Yeah, those. Anyway - I went into some of my favorite posts on there and started looking at comments. Those that I enjoyed (not necessarily agreed with, just enjoyed) that had a blog I went to. WOW!! I found some good ones.

First - check out MY WAR. Kinda hard to read with the dark background, and long (I mean long) paragraphs, but worth it. Really. CB is in the shit and he takes you right there with him. I found him via several sites.

Next - while visiting Questing Cat I found Kat at The Middle Ground. All I'll say is SHE ROCKS. Go, Read Her Right Now!!!

Many of you probably already read MEMEorandum, but I didn't. I do now. I love the fact that it has the news and then who is posting on it. Geez Tammi, where have you been?

These are just a few of the great new things I've stumbled across. It looks like I'll be stuck at home for a few days so I'll let you know what else my adventures in blogging turns up.

#1,000!!!

Wow! 1,000 visitors ALREADY! At 10:33 est. today I moved into 6 figures on this site. (now if I could only get my pay check to reflect those numbers)

I'm very pleased.

WOW - and the Russian Fed. Time Zone to boot!!!

Thanks so much for stopping by. All Of you.

Party ON!!!!!!!!!!!!!

PARTY AT MADFISH WILLIES!!!!

That's right folks, it a comment party - and let me tell you, things are starting to heat up early! BTW - Harvey, got that jacuzzi goin' yet? Come on man, what a girl gotta do? Wait, don't answer that here. Save it for the party!!

Reading - It's the thing to do

I love to read. It's one of my favorite pastimes. I'll read to the exclusion of all else. I've even called in sick to work (in the past) to finish a series I was involved in. (Record to date: 5 books in one day). I'll read anything with words on it, that will sit still long enough for me to finish a sentence. But my favorites are trashy novels.

Well, it seems my niece has taken up the mantel. She has become a true fan of Elizabeth Lowell's work. I don't have a problem with that, not at all.

Yes, they can be considered a bit racy. But think about what's on TV and in the movies - let alone song lyrics. Plus, reading is imagination. If you don't have a point of reference, most of those "steamy" parts are nothing but words on paper. (She's going to be 14 next month, I started reading these when I was 11)

In explaining that to my Mom I realized a few things. Reading these books led directly to who and where I am today.

I grew up in a small town. We were "simple folks", just your average run of the mill middle/lower class family. Went to church, spent time with the family, not a lot of travel. Pretty much you're average '70s family.

Then I started reading. I've always loved history. But books gave me a window into a different world. Taught me about different places, exotic food, beautiful clothes. Made me want to experience these things.

My vocabulary expanded. Now - I do have to tell a funny story on myself. In my late teens I met this very sophisticated older (25 to my 18) gentleman. He was well educated, well traveled - oh so sophisticated. So, we are driving to a nice dinner out and he's telling me stories of his travels and experiences. I decide to impress him with my vocabulary. (please note: I had READ a lot, not heard the words pronounced a lot) I glance over at him and say "Well, you've had a pot-pour-y of experiences. (pronounced as I spelled it) Yeah folks - after the laughter died down and the red eased from my face he explained how to say the word. I had never heard it pronounced before, I just knew what it meant. I still have a bit of a problem with pronunciation. Oh, I know how to spell the words, I know what they mean, but I need to hear it to be able to pronounce it. Still a source of amusement for many of my friends.

I read about places I thought I'd never see. Places that all of a sudden I wanted to visit. I read about food I'd never heard of. I wanted to taste it.

Reading made me want more. Reading made me study harder, work harder. Reading made me push myself so that I could experience these things. Reading molded me.

So yeah, I'm all right with her reading trashy novels. I'm even going to give her some of mine. Then I'm going to sit down and talk to her. Who knows, maybe she'll want more too one day.

GREAT T.V.

I had a bit of trouble sleeping last night. So I started channel surfing. Wow.

When I moved to this part of the state, I took a bit of time to learn what channel options I had. I stumbled on the History International Channel. Do you get it? If not - ask you cable company for it. There are History Timelines, History's Generals, any number of Military History programs, and last night they had History Viewpoint: 100 years of Terror - The Fright Decades. This installment focused on various terrorist groups that were functioning from the 70's - throught the 90's.

WOW. Wow. It wasn't just a walk thru nightmare memories. I learned new facts. It was a real eye-opener for me.

One of the things that I learned was about a speech on Terrorism that President Reagan gave back in 1985. I didn't get enough information to find it on line, but I did find this message to Congress regarding Proposed Legislation to Combat International Terrorism. This speech was given over 20 years ago. I know hind site is 20/20, but OH, If Only We Had Paid Attention.

This particular program stopped at 1999. It talks about how the greatest danger now are the terrorist groups that combine hatred and religion. It talks about the new age of terrorism. It'll make you think. It might even make you pray.

Not being a television watcher for the most part, I wanted to pass along this gem of a channel. Like I said, if you don't get it, contact your cable company and ask for it. It's more than worth the effort.

Really - He's Really Posting

Sgt Hook, yes the Real Sgt Hook is back and posting.

In his words, let the blogging begin!!!!

For Amy

I've been haunted by the article I read earlier today at John, Pam and Lex's sites. = I find myself going back several times to re-read what was said. I've started several posts on this, and each one gets deleted. I told a friend that I didn't know if I had it in me to write on this subject - it's more personal than I ever discuss.

But I think I have to.

I'm passionate about what I believe in. Very passionate. There aren't a lot of gray areas with me. Abortion is one of those.

Now - I have to say that I DO NOT CONDONE abortion at all. But, I also do not want my government telling me what I can do with my body. I believe that abortion is wrong wrong wrong, but it is an individuals choice. I believe in education on the options and responsibility. I'll do my damnedest to talk you out of one, to the point I've actually offered to adopt the child. But ultimately it wasn't my choice.

I was adopted, as I've mentioned before. Every day I thank the good Lord above that my birth mother chose to give me to a family that wanted me, could take care of me, would cherish me. Thank You Charlotte - where ever you are. The gift of life is by far the greatest that I have ever received and I cherish it, I really do.

I've also always wanted children. Growing up, I wanted to be a Mommy. (of course a business woman mommy, but still a mommy.) When Mom would ask me why I wanted it so badly I'd tell her it was because I wanted someone to love me as much as I loved her. Well, that's part of it. The rest is having the opportunity to love, to cherish, to teach and watch develop this wonderful being. To see their smiles, dry their tears, celebrate their victories and smite their foes. I wanted to be a part of that. I needed it.

When I was 21 I decided I was ready to be a mother. Married? No, but in my infinite wisdom I figured I didn't need a man to be a mom. (well, except to get started.) So I got pregnant. I was so happy. So complete - for the first time in my life, there was a being that I felt CONNECTED to. I found out she was a little girl. I named her Amy (rather ironic in this instance). In my minds eye I knew she would be musical. Both her daddy and I were, and I couldn't imagine that would miss her. I knew she'd be tall, she'd be strong. I dreamed of our life together...helping to make her dreams come true. Working together for a future. Tea parties, dress up, first day of school, her wedding day. In those brief months, I dreamed of all that.

Then, one horrible night, I miscarried. It all but destroyed me. 20 years later I still dream of her, still think of her on my due date, still MISS her. That was the only chance I had to have a child.

So, please help me understand how this BEING can destroy 2 lives and still look at herself in the mirror? How can she make that decision based on the reasoning she gave? How can she be a good mother for that little boy? What she's demonstrated so far is selfishness and immaturity.

How can she hold that little boy and not think of those other two angels? How can she watch him take his first steps and not see them? How will she explain her choice to him? And you know the day will come when it will come out.

I agree it was her choice. But that doesn't mean that I can't rail against it. That I can't stand up and say NO. I don't have to agree. I don't have to like it. I don't.

Lunch Break Potpourri

Hope ya'll are having a good Monday. It's stormy here today, so I'm sticking close to the house, all though I do have to venture out into the big bad world of Staples this afternoon. (They have agreed to take back the fax/printer/scanner/copy thingy from hell I've had trouble with.) But all in all, it's a day for paperwork and preparation.

But I was thinking about some things while waiting for my files to download.

**Often times I'll read something I really like, agree or even disagree with. It may spark a train of thought or cause me to just stop in my tracks. But, for some reason I don't leave a comment. Sometimes I think it's because I can't think of anything that adds value. Sometimes I'm just flat out intimidated by the author or other commentors. Sometimes it's just laziness. I LOVE when I get comments, I'm sure others do also. I'm gonna have to work on that.

**I adore popcorn, green apples and carmel. Put them together and I'm very happy. So when I saw Jolly Time's new Caramel Apple Popcorn, saying it combined all those flavors I was on that like stink on shit. And shit is the appropriate word at this point. Yuck. It's awful. Really awful. Damn.

**I did all of my grocery shopping last night without hearing one conversation conducted in "American English" until I got to the check-out. Tourists. The lot of them. That or "part-timers". Geez. No wonder I haven't met any of my new neighbors.

Ok - since the popcorn was so bad, I better find something for lunch. Hmmmm nacho's and cheese. Yeah, that's the ticket.

Nothin'

I got nothin'. Not a damn thing. I've read through my blogroll and there are so many great posts. Not much I can add of value there.

I went through the news, so many things that spark my attention - just don't know what I can say that makes a bit of difference.

So - unless something really stands up and slaps me, this is probably all there'll be today.

Damn, who'da thought - me with nothing to say. Did someone record this date somewhere? I do believe it's history in the making.

Oh For Cryin' Out Loud

I'm sure you all have seen the headlines "Arnold calls Legislature Girlie-Men" and heard all the rigamarow that has ensued.

I'm linking to the San Francisco Chronicle as my reference for a couple of reasons.

I knew it would be very biased against the Governor and I really wanted to see what they had to say, and how they said it.

Also - it covers the story as well as any of the other media does, and it's a California paper, I wanted a local spin.

First they keep saying it was a slam on women and gays. Get over yourselves for goodness sake. That phrase was made popular by the show Saturday Nite Live decades ago. It's become a common phrase in our language. I use it - and I'm not slamming gays or women. I'm slamming the person or people it's aimed at. I'm telling them they don't have the balls to do what they need to do. Get it - they are acting like men without balls. Men without gumption. People without the fortitude to follow through.

Over the years, television, movies and music have changed the way we talk. Hell, there are websites out there to translate this stuffl

Let's face it - this is all a smoke screen to keep the voters from realizing that what he is saying is true. They have stalled on the vote. They are catering to special interest groups. He's just doing what everyone should do - call them on it!!

How 'bout this for biased:
Schwarzenegger concluded a three-day tour in Stockton on Sunday by continuing to bad-mouth Democratic lawmakers, asking hundreds of people packed into a mall's food court to act as "terminators'' against those who stand in the way of a budget compromise.

"I want you to go out there and go after those Democratic legislators,'' he urged to wild applause. "They are obstructionists. Go out there and vote them out of office. Vote them out of office, and we will put new faces in there.''

Sounds to me like a good speech. I can't find one other phrase that could possibly be considered "bad mouthing". Instead, he says things in a way that people understand - instead of all that PC, over their heads speak we get so much of. And - how is telling people that their representatives are holding up legislature and that they should be voted out considered "bad mouthing"?

It's just good public speaking, good politics (for a change). He's talking TO the people, not AT them. He's pointing out a problem and, since the solution is in the hands of the voters, asking for their help.

Let's be honest for a second - For those "of an age" - who didn't love that girlie man line, and use it?!?! It's a part of our language now.

Get over yourselves folks. Let's get some work done instead of all this gnashing of teeth and needless wailing. Personally I like the way he's going at this, but you probably picked up on that.

SUNday?!?!?

It's kindy yicky here today. Gray, cloudy, humid - hell I thought I was back in Chicago when I first went outside!!

According to the handy dandy weather dude, we won't see serious sun here until Tuesday (if we're lucky). Figures, my Sister is set to arrive next week. Last time she was here it rained for 17 days straight!!!

Anyway - I guess the forces of nature are hell bent on me getting housework done. So....I've spent the morning working on a little blog project - Hey it was either that or scrubbin' toilets! Which would you choose?!?!

I did read some really great and insightful posts this morning. (caution: entering linky love zone)

Boudicca has a something to say - and it's well worth reading.

Beth is getting ready to hit the road again and has something important to say about air travel!

Lex tells about some Ejection Seats He Has Known - YIKES!!!

The Questing Cat tells a bit about how blogging in the Sand Box is helping - including a Thank You to the readers. Drop by and leave a note. Let 'em know we're all here for the long haul.

You get the idea - go for a little stroll through the blogsphere - plenty a good stuff out there for a Sunday read!!!

New Addition

To the blogroll that is!

I was running through and catching up on some of my favorite sites and while visiting over at ChromeDome's he mentions one of the guys in his platoon started a new site A Walk thru the Valley of Death, so being me - I popped right over. (Always was kind of a outgoing person).

Anyway - looks to be a very interesting place. Here's his first entry:

"This is my first entry. This blog is going to be in support of the 341st Military Police Company and our adventures during Operation Iraqi Freedom. The unit was in Iraq for 391 days patrolling and escorting convoys. We left Iraq being the most decorated military police unit in theatre. 32 Bronze stars, 5 Purple Hearts, 130 ARCAMS. Ill be posting the stories here."

But that's not all - he talks a bit about what's been going on in the 3 weeks he's been back in the US and there's even a picture. Go check it out!!

He's just get started to be sure and Welcome him Home and to the Blogsphere!!!

A Quiz A Quiz

Saw this at LeeAnn's and couldn't resist.

My life is rated NC-17.
What is your life rated?

:-)

I don't know why, but that makes me happpy!!!

Does This Make Me a Bad Person?

I want a dog. I've wanted one for some time now. I really want a little Yorkie puppy. They don't shed much and are too small to get on my furniture without my approval (and yes, my furniture is that big. I'm a big girl, I like big girl furniture).

Here's the catch. I cannot spend $700 on a dog. I just can't do it. For any reason. So, I've hemed and hawed and bitched and moaned. Today I did something about it.

I went to my local SPCA. I figured that was the right thing to do. Ohhh so many cute dogs. And a batch of puppies!! But - here's the catch. They are all "big" dogs. Even the puppies - Labs. Big Dogs.

I didn't get any today. As cute as they all were, and yes, I went in and played with them, I didn't get one. I really need a small dog. For several reasons.

I don't have much yard. The pool takes up most of it, and that is all cement. Not a lot of run space. Also - I'm gone most days, so a small dog can run around inside, but a big dog needs room to roam.

Also, I can take a small dog more places with me. If I do go visit friends, they don't mind the smaller dogs, but the bigger ones can cause problems.

So, the hunt is still on. But I gotta wonder if I'm becoming a cold fish in my old age. Few years ago, I'da walked out with one of the babies. Hmmm.

The Perfect Saturday Post

Jim at Parkway Rest Stop takes us on a little walk down memory lane with the Kool-Aid guy!! He has a wonderful round up on that delightful stuff that made many of us smile when we were young (well until Jim Jones went and ruined it for us.)

Anyway - take a gander! It's the perfect post for a Saturday!!!

Saturday Question of the Day

Every Saturday I'll try to come up with some "out there" question that just makes you stop and think about something not so important. Think of it as a mini vacation. If you have any ideas drop me a line and we'll throw it in here. Who knows, it might be fun.

OK - Here goes:

Sticking with the Food Theme I've had lately - describe your favorite pizza.

Now - for me a real treat is NY style pizza with just extra cheese. Simple. To the point.

But I also have to admit to being a complete pizza-freak. If it's on a crust (perferably crispy/thin) has sauce (red or white) and melted cheese - hell I'll give it a whirl. Pizza Is The Perfect Food. I learned that in college!

Now - I have also discovered a frozen pizza that is good enough to consider a treat. Really.

It's Freschetta's Brick Oven with the fire baked crust. Smoked ham and portabella mushrooms. Listen to this:

Julienne strips of smoked ham and roasted portabella mushrooms on a creamy onion sauce topped with - wait for it - roasted garlic, sliced green onions, mozzarella AND fontina cheese.

The first time I tried it I was on the phone with a friend. I finally had to confess that I blacked out an entire 5 minute segment of our conversation as I ate the first piece. (I know it's rude to eat on the phone, but I'm always running, so I have to multi task). All I remember is how surprisingly good this frozen pizza was. I took the second bite and felt the snap of the green onions - WOW.

(sorry - I was having a moment just remembering)

Oh My Goodness. It's dinner tonite. I can't wait.

Oh, I'm sorry - I went to my happy Pizza Place - so tell me about YOUR favorite pizza.

How Do I Title This One?

Again - I'm reading Michelle Malkin and found this post. I'm posting this for a couple of reasons.

1) I have many readers that are not bloggers and I don't want them to miss it. (hint hint - click the damned link)

2) Just in case you are a normal reader of her's and haven't been over there - DO SO NOW!!!

3) It's a GREAT post.

First and foremost she talks about a Welcome Home for some Soldiers that's done RIGHT.

Then she has a response from Jason Gilson's mom (remember - he's the Wounded Veteran that was called a Murderer and Baby Killer while marching in the 4th of July Parade in Bainbridge Island). Wow - moving stuff. Be sure and read all the way to the end....there's a response from Jason on all of the emails and phone calls he has received.

Just wanted to make sure ya'll saw it.

Just So You Know

I'm sure you all click over to Sgt. Hook's place daily. Right? Well, if so than you know he's changing over hosts and was having a bit of trouble. Well it looks like things are clearing up. He's got a great new design and will be moving the rest over soon.

Yeah!! I know I've been missing my daily Hook Updates!! Glad to see it's comin' back on-line!

Wanna Laugh?

Randy is on a roll!!!

He's highlighting some great comic strips and such. Go ahead, take your coffee and go for a visit! It's a great way to start your day.

She's Movin' On Up!!

Teresa of Technicalities is movin' to a new home! Today is her last post on the old site and it's a gem. Go and read it, then UPDATE your links to her new pad. It's very pretty - Madfish Willie @ Hammerhead Blog Designs strikes again!!!

Congratulations Teresa. Everything looks GREAT.

Things I Have Learned

and I mean just this morning!!

1) ALWAYS set the coffee pot the night before.

2) DO NOT under any circumstances attempt to do ANYTHING that involves matches, lighters (except for cigarettes) BEFORE you've had your coffee.

3) In the off chance you did not adhere to lesson #1 move very slowly while preparing the coffee. Do Not Rush This as it can ruin the coffee pot.

4) Do NOT attempt to comment on other blogs in a witty or coy manner until said coffee has kicked in.

5) When awakening in the middle of the night, actually put your glasses on and LOOK at the clock before you call your mother for your daily chat.

Yeah folks - those are all lessons I learned today. I went to bed fairly early - very very tired - heck even unloading the dishwasher exhausted me (yes, I'm working to reduce the list I wrote earlier.) Problem is, I still wake up after so many hours. I was a bit disoriented and thought I might have missed my call to Mom before she left. Thank GOODNESS I got the machine. I'd have felt terrible calling at 2:30 her time!!

So, as a little treat, here is what my morning looked like after the attempted phone call to my mother.

OK OK OK I need coffee. Oh shit. I didn't set the pot. I was too tired after emptying the dishwasher. OK OK OK I can do this. Open the thingy where the filter is. Dump the filter. Oh shit - I forgot to take the lid off first. Dig that out. Now run small amount dishwater and wash the lid. Dump grounds and wash. Put filter back into grinder add beans and, oh I gotta add water. Pull pot out and fill with water. Dump water into......NO NO NO Don't put the water ON the beans. Dufus. Shit - water got into grinder. OK OK OK. I gotta think. I need to light a candle. (WTF?!?) Pull out warmer and go to closet and get tealight. Place tealight in bottom of warmer and light with lighter - ouch. OK. Get candle lighter from family room and light tealight. Go to bathroom and put toothpaste on burn. Shoot - is that coffee done yet? Shit. Take filter off pot and dump - having first removed lid (I do learn somewhat quickly). Dump beans and dry out filter. Dry off grinder. Put filter on and refill with beans. Replace lid and CLOSE the top of the part of the machine. NOW - fill pot with water and pour into water holder place. Check blog. Attempt to comment on many wonderful sites, cancel as you cannot understand what language you were posting in. Where's that coffee?!!?!?! Shoot. Turn coffee pot on. Stand at counter watching and waiting until enough of the brown nectar of the gods has accumulated in pot to make a cup.

Ahhhhhhhhh. Good Morning. :-) Think I'll go sit outside where I can't do any more damage.

He Said No

Here I shared where I had heard that Mike Ditka, ex coach for Da Bears, was going to run for the Senate in Illinois. Well - he has chosen not to.

Darn - that would have been fun!!

Hat tip:Iraq War News

Evil Stikes

First and foremost, I had added Michelle Malkin's blog to my roll a bit ago. I realize many of you have been reading her - I'm jealous. She's incredible and I wish I'd have found her sooner.

So today I'm doing a run through and find this article. It's about a man pouring gasoline on himself, his girlfriend and their 3 small children, while driving in a car, and SETTING THEM ALL ON FIRE. The children were a 2 1/2 yr old girl, a 1 1/2 yr old boy and a 6 month old baby boy. Gone, all of them - including the mother. (I honestly don't give a rats ass what happened to the guy - he deserved to die, not once but several times).

I found myself sitting straighter and straighter in my chair as I read the details. But what really put my blood to the boiling point was this little part:

Laveda Allen ( the sister of the female victim) said she wasn't upset with Garcia, who she said was the father of her sister's three children.

"He just went over the deep end. He probably just loved her too much. He didn't want to see his kids being taken care of by another man."

Ok - this Ms Allen will be burying her sister and her niece and nephews on that same sister's 19th birthday. She's not upset with him?!?! This woman is either a saint or an idiot! A saint for managing to turn the other cheek, forgive as you wish to be forgiven - what ever! I'm doubting that. My money is on idiot. And yes, this is idiotic.

Let me just get this out folks. I don't give a rats ass what a person's background, work ethic or ability to tell a good joke is - abuse is abuse is abuse. Murder is murder is murder. Evil is evil is evil. Get the picture.

Some of the most horrific monsters are cleverly disguised as everyday men and woman of taste, refinement and sophistication. It's not what is on the outside or how they behave in public. It's what is in their souls (if they have one), what happens behind closed doors that defines the person. Trust me - I know of what I speak.

And we are not being kind or sweet or forgiving to not be upset, to hold demons such as this accountable for their actions - dead or alive. No Forgiveness. None at all.

Something A Bit Lighter

Poor dog, it just goes to show how sneaky pets can be!!!

Dear Dog-
I am so sorry about you being sent to the dog pound
for the broken lamp which you did not break;
the fish you did not spill; and the carpet that you
did not wet; or the wall that you did not dirty with
red paint...

Things here at the house are calmer now, and
just to show you that I have no hard feelings
towards you, I am sending you a picture, so you will
always remember me.

Best Wishes,
The Cat

I Met Someone Today

No - not like that! Lex introduced me to CDR John J. Roach III, or BUG as everyone knew him. Go and meet him yourself. What an amazing man. What a great story. I wish I could have heard the stories he had to tell. I wish I could have shook his hand.

Conversation With A Friend

I'm doing something I never do. Writing a piece tonite (Wednesday) to post tomorrow morning. I usually have no idea what I'm going to actually say - I get up, check what's been posted over night, check out some news sites and there you got it. Life according to Tammi. If I have something to say, I usually just say it now, knowing that there is little doubt I'll have something to say later. But I got this "mass" rolling through my mind, and I want to put it out there before I go crazy spinning in circles, but I also want to make sure it's logical and makes sense. Well, sense for me that is!

Anyway - Wednesday was a pretty rough day. I had 3 major meetings and no information for the 2 most important. But hey - I'm in sales. I'll just pull the info out of my magic ass and who will be the wiser, right? Me. That's who. And just so you know, I don't have a good poker face. If I think it or feel it, it's written all over my face. So, I don't do that. Can't. It's a waste of time and my good reputation.

First meeting - alright. Meet and greet. Take care of a couple of questions. Next. Lunch with a team mate. THAT was interesting. Found out that there are some things missing on my accounts, LIKE MY NAME - meaning I won't get paid for those shipments. Did I mention I'm on commission?!? Yeah, yippee. Oh, and the way we found that out is she asked if I've been getting the weekly reports. What weekly reports? Who sends them? What do they report? Oh Shit. That's not a good sign.

Third meeting, small design house that orders on a client by client basis. Small orders, no stock, no show room. IOW - very low sales. Still, a customer is a customer is a customer. After almost 2 hours I'm finally done. They ordered 6 flippin' beds. That's it. Oh, and they want me to stop each week to reveiw orders. Did I mention they are 2 hours away, and no other customers near. Weekly??!! No, I'm thinking not.

Meanwhile, the phone never stopped ringing. Not all bad things, just so very much to do. Thursday looks to be another day that starts around 6:00am and hopefully will end around 7:00pm.

So on the way home I'm talking to a friend. She used to be my customer, and we've been friends for almost 8 years. She lives 3 miles from my new home and I've seen her 1x since I moved. It's 6:30pm and we are both finally starting home after long days. She tells me I need a life. All I do or talk about is work. After the "pot calling the kettle black" retort I tell her I have to disagree. I talk politics, just not with her. I support our Military and am starting to get more physically involved with that. Just never talked about it to her. She doesn't know about the blog - and I'm gonna keep it that way. I talk about movies, books, sports and I love a good gossip session as much as the next person.

But it got me to thinking. Is she right? I know I need to get out more, that's a given. I checked my category listing on the site. Nope - work has the least amount posted. I know I vent to the people I call during the day. But I think we also have other, insightful discussions. Hmmmmm

Plus I know plenty of people that work longer hours and more days than I do. It's not just sales people that live like hermits in their cave like cars. IT - that's a pretty much thankless job, and the hours are unbelievable. (I know, I call our IT department at all hours of the day and night - and they are always there and always helpful.) Heck, I know people that work in accounting departments that work 60+ hour weeks. And let's not even get me started on the type of work schedule our Military keeps!!!! We've got no room to complain.

I realize I work - A Lot. But it's the nature of the beast. Plus, since Saturdays are required people don't realize we do get an alternate day off, and I'm lucky enough that it's Monday, so I still get that same "weekend" feeling. Sunday's are mine. I tell you what - I laid on that lounger in the pool till my ass cheeks looked like raisins last weekend. And I'm out there again this Sunday. I don't answer the cell phone, and usually not the regular one, unless it's someone I want to talk with.

So over all, I'm going to have to disagree with my friend. I know she means well but - I do have a life - it's just a little different than what some people choose. I'll make 'em a deal - until you live my life for me, stop telling me I don't have one.

**sharp nod of the head** OK, enough of that. Time to hit the road and make today a better one. (and yes, I really do say sappy things like that out loud)

Funny Email

Here's one for those woman out there (like me) that are fighting tooth and nail to hold "age" at bay!!

Now I lay me

Down to sleep

I pray the Lord

My shape to keep.

Please no wrinkles

Please no bags

And please lift my butt

Before it sags.

Please no age spots

Please no gray

And as for my belly,

Please take it away.

Please keep me healthy

Please keep me young,

And thank you Dear Lord

For all that you've done.

Foot Note:

One saggy boob said to the other saggy boob: "If we don't get some support soon, people will think we're nuts."

Your Input Please

I've got a bit of a problem, and no one to really "roll it around" with - when suddenly I remembered YOU!! Yes, I think you can help me.

So - I've got a luncheon training meeting tomorrow. It's with one of my stores that, let's just say, isn't feeling all that loved right now. With the move, transition and everything else - they haven't had the attention THEY think they deserve. Anyway -

I need to supply lunch. For 18 people. It's an upscale furniture store and it'll be a kind of grab, train and go thing.

Here's the problem. I don't have an expense account in stand by. I gotta foot the bill and then be reinbursed down the road. (iow - sometime next month) So, I need to do something nice, different (don't like to be considered average or run of the mill) but not something that will break the bank.

Any suggestions? Actually, this will help in planning future sessions also. I have the breakfast meetings down. Either donuts, bagels or combination there of. I've even picked up a variety of breakfast sandwhichs, bring in OJ and gourmet coffee. But this lunch thing is tricky.

So - whata ya think?

A Moment of Reflection

Tim shares with us a letter he wrote to Sarah in those last minutes before he was reunited with Patti after 427 days apart.

You owe it to yourself to read it. Geez, that man can write! It's a letter of gratitude, hope and reflection. It is one of the most beautiful things I've read.

I'm not going to even put a "teaser" in here - you need to go and read it.

My First Time

You know, I've had a pretty good day over all. Got a chance to meet with a customer for the first time - and I like them. A lot. I think this account will be a lot of fun.

Anyway - I got a little lost coming home. Now, I probably shouldn't admit this out loud on paper/internet but the account is straight down the highway from my home. And I do mean straight down the highway. I turn right on to the highway and go.......straight. Yeah, so getting home shouldn't have been an issue, but I decided to try and find a Staples or Office Depot near by.

So I get done with my calls - man was it a hot bugger out there today! - and head to the house. Get about 5 mins, yes that is minutes and make my decision to find that store. I live out. Way out. So I head towards a town, any town that is NOT Orlando. I drive. I drive. I drive. Next thing I know - I'm in flippin' ORLANDO!! I ended up about 35 miles from my house - about an hour drive given decent traffic conditions. Yeah right, decent traffic conditions in ORLANDO. It's now rush hour and my house is in the same direction all that traffic is headed!! Yikes! The good news there is I've now found a "backway" to Orlando that, while having tons of lights, doesn't have nearly as bad a traffic as I4.

Anyway - head back home. I get here. Fix a little somethin' for dinner and check the old blog. OK - it's still there. Light on comments but that's not that unusual. Check out all the sites on my blogroll - yes folks I read them all at least once a day. OK - check back, a couple new visitors. Cool. Check old site - some people still haven't changed their links, but at least folks are clicking over. Get back to my Site - ohh, new comment. Wow - 3 new comments.

Wait - what's this? Could it be? Why it is!! My first spammer! Oh WOW - TWO. Two in one day! Finally, I get the chance I've been waiting for. Yes folks - I got to ban.

If you've been reading my site at all, you know by now that I have a twisted sense of humor and kinda actually enjoy "smacking" someone that deserves it from time to time. Banning a spam IP is the kind of smacking I enjoy. I'm surprised I didn't say "Take That" when I hit the update button on the ban page. (You can't prove it, you can't - I've had this room swept for bugs - so I KNOW you can't prove it.)

So - to all you that have been here thru my last 4 months - you've shared my trials, tribulations and triumphs. And now - you've shared my first spam. It's a touching moment isn't it? I'm gonna need a cigarette now.

He's Back He's Back

Like so much water in the desert, we finally have words from Mike the Marine!! That's right folks my long lost blogbrother is back. And Posting!!!

Welcome back to the land of Blog Mike. It sure is good to hear from you!!!

Senator DITKA?!?

I saw on FOX News last night where there is now a website www.draftditka.com trying to get ex Chicago Bears coach Mike Ditka to run for Senate after Jack Ryan withdrew. (BTW - in my mind his time in New Orleans will never count. Never.)

You're probably wondering what this Florida girl is doing watching that story. Two reasons really. 1) I watch everything - didn't you realize that?!? 2) I was a Bears fan for years and years and years. If it weren't for getting married that year - 1985 would be the happiest time of my life!

Anyway - I'm just sitting here thinking about Ditka in the Senate. Senator Ditka. Da Senator.

Seriously, I don't know if he has the temperment for it. I haven't had a chance to read his position on issues. I do know he has stated his willingness to run (Chicago Trib. subscription required).

My imagination runs wild. Just remembering him on the sideline - screaming at McMahon, wonder how that would go over in the Senate?

It'll be interesting to watch that's for sure.

He Got Me Again

Lex has done it again. Last night he posted a story that talks about sacrifice. The sacrifice our Military men and woman - and their families - endure for OUR FREEDOM.

It's complete with picture.

Go read it. But I'm warning you - have a tissue handy. It'll get you too.

You Live In Georgia???

Then be sure and get out and vote on July 20th. Why? Go read this at Jennifer Martinez's site.

Cynthia McKinney, Congress woman from Georgia, has a real chance of winning back her seat if she wins the Democratic nomination this July.

Want to get your blood pressure up this morning? Here's a piece from the NY Post Opinion Article:

"Plus, McKinney has long associated with militant Islamic groups whose members have openly supported terrorism. She has also taken donations from individuals suspected of terrorist ties.

But McKinney hasn't just taken money from radical Islamists — she has taken to the floor of the House to defend them..."

Don't take my word for it, go and read the article yourself. It lists the groups and individuals that have contributed to her campaign (talk about a Motly Crew) as well as some of her actions.

Time Marker

It's seems it's the Blogiversary of John at Castle Argghhh!!! and he's got a great post up of some really funny quotes from the military. Go, read, laugh and let him know you were there!! He's looking for some inspiration so if you've gotten any good email jokes lately be sure and share them!

Congratulations John! It's been some year, hasn't it?!?! Here's to another one full of Great Reads!!!

But I Don't Wanna

We're supposed to get 2 days off each week. I usually get Sundays. Sometimes not as it may be the only day a store can fit me into a meeting. I also TRY to take Mondays - either off or as an Office Day. Haven't been able to do that for a while now. Either way - if you don't take your chosen day "off" you lose it. No matter what anyone says, it's too hard to just take a day when you work in a world that is open 7 days a week.

Today is no different. Now I'll admit I did wake up a bit confused. I had it in this brain of mine that I needed to meet with a new client today. After getting up and slamming thru the "wake-the-hell-up" routine I looked in my handy dandy black book and realized it's Wednesday. Yipee!!!! Office day for Tammi.

I couldn't justify a day off completely as I'm just way behind in my paperwork. So office day it is. Nice, since I'm home and can work on that months backlog of laundry and take breaks now and again to putter or hang something on the wall.

But nooo.... The force is against me it seems. After realizing I can take an office day, and getting back into my comfy clothes I get a call telling me I have a fire on the far side of Orlando (almost to Daytona) that needs attention. NOW.

I'm really fighting to get my territory under control. I don't want to be running in circles putting out fires. Thats just not productive. Besides, we have "fire days" that we keep in reserve just for this type of thing. TODAY IS NOT SUPPOSED TO BE A FIRE DAY!!! I don't want to get in my car. I don't want to drive anywhere. I don't want to smile, be nice and eat crap. No No No.

Whew - I feel a bit better now. So anyway - it's almost 2:00. Will be re-dressed and on the road by 3:00. As long as I'm there by 5:00 they will be happy. And heaven knows it's important they're happy. (sorry, feeling just a bit sarcastic this afternoon).

UPDATE: Like it's breaking news or something - geez girl, getta life! Anyway - I love telephones. Love Love Love. Called this customer, had a little talk - end result I'm back in my comfy clothes and will stop in when I'm in the area tomorrow. Yeah!! Yeah!! Yeah!! It really is my territory. Really. (I feel like that old commercial for Burger King. Have It Your Way!)

What Was On

Yesterday afternoon I spotted this Media Alert over at Blackfive's. It was for Oliver North's War Stories, and I certainly hope you had a chance to watch it.

For me, being a civilian, never having been in a military situation ever in my life, it was....incredible. Awesome. Awakening. It was a great show. Personally, I would have preferred longer stories, and maybe make it a two parter. There were as many questions left after I watched as I had before hand.

The one line that just really stuck in my head is when North asked a young Marine who he thought the enemy was now. The response was Ignorance. I sat there on the couch and thought that truer words had never been spoken. What really amazed me is that this young Soldier is being shot at daily. His friends and team mates are being wounded, or worse, and he's still focused on the ignorance of the enemy. And then my mind hops over to what is going on over here in the States. Yeah - I'm gonna whole heartedly agree, the enemy that surrounds all of us is Ignorance.

Anyway - the show spotlighted some of the training that goes on to prepare these Warriors for what they will face. It showed some of the efforts that are being made daily to win the hearts and minds of the Iraqi people. One story followed a night raid where they scored a shit load munitions from a suspected terrorist's home. During a night raid. I hope you got a chance to see the picture of that Troop displaying what they had found that evening. All I could think of is how many lives they saved that night. I was so proud.

I'm just so damned curious as to what it's like. What our Soldiers are having to put up with, the good/bad and the ugly. I'm not morbid - not by a long shot. But I care, and my way has always been to really understand the things I care about. (Must be that analyst in me.) So I can't tell you if the show was slanted or biased or right or wrong. I just know it was interesting - can't step away interesting - for me. I learned something. When the show was over I was proud. Proud of our Soldiers and proud of what we are doing over there.

BTW - if Matt suggests you follow a link or catch a show - good rule of thumb is to do it. I haven't been disappointed yet. Thanks Matt.

FIRST THING I SAW!!

CPT PATTI IS FINALLY HOME!!!!!!!!!

Now THAT'S a great way to start out the week!!!!!

Welcome HOME!

Ten Things

that I do that ticks me off...... (in no particular order)

1) Kick my shoes off as soon as I walk in the house and LEAVE them there!!

2) Wait to do laundry until I'm out of underwear - and that equals to about 1x a month. (don't worry, I have more than enough clothes)

3) Procrastinate on emptying the dishwasher - instead just use the clean dishes directly, rather than putting them away.

4) Have such a hard time asking for help.

5) Wait till the damn tank is on "E" before I stop to get gas

6) Work so much

7) Am so "handy man" challenged. I have trouble fixing anything.

8) Am so overly sentimental

9) Have such expensive tastes

10) Sit at the computer at 3:00am making up stupid lists like this.

That's it....I'm gonna try and get back to sleep.

Breaking The Silence

I had to take a break from the sun. It's kinda hot out there today. So I jump on line real quick to check a few things and see that my friend BloodSpite has Broken the Silence at long last.

I knew he had hurt his back, but he kept hinting that when he did post I'd like it. You know what - he's right. BloodSpites gonna be a DADDY!!! Yeah! And it's looking to be a little girl! I make a really great Aunt Tammi, have I ever mentioned that?!?! I'm so happy for he and his wife.

On the down side, it looks like he will not be rejoining the Army. I'm sad for him in that regard as I know it's something he really had his heart set on.

But don't take my word on it. He's spelled it all out so beautifully I'd be very upset if you didn't click over to read it. So do - leave him a comment of congratulations and support.

HELP! I'm Confused

OK - I give up. I've been trying and trying to "ping" the sites that I link to and all I ever get is this error:

Ping 'http://to what ever site I link to' failed: HTTP error: 501 Protocol scheme 'http' is not supported

This is what I'm doing. I go to the post and copy the trackback code, then I paste it in my nifty little "ping box". Error after error after error - and it never ever pings. I've even tried the link back to the post itself and NOTHING but that damned message. I've read the handy dandy instructions that come with MT and I still can't get it to work.

Anyone out there that can give me "elementary, step by step, no fancy words" instructions on how to do this?!?!?!

I would be very grateful.

I'm Somebody!!

Ok - I knew that, but now I'm REALLY SOMEBODY.

I've been adopted - AGAIN. My mother has been saying for years that my papers are available - well Mama, be careful what you wish for.

I have been offically adopted into the BAD EXAMPLE FAMILY. The Blogfather made the announcement this evening.

I'm so happy - think I'll go and visit my new siblings!!

Thanks Harvey!!!!

Let's Keep It Light!!

After my last post, and a very, very early Saturday morning, I thought a bit of humor was called for. So, I'll post a couple of email jokes I've gotten lately. Most guys probably won't get this one - but trust me, it's funny. It's also something I would do in a heartbeat! :-)

Jennifer's wedding day was fast approaching. Nothing could dampen her
excitement - not even her parents' nasty divorce. Her mother had found
the PERFECT dress to wear and would be the best dressed
mother-of-the-bride ever!

A week later, Jennifer was horrified to learn that her father's new
young wife had bought the exact same dress! Jennifer asked her to
exchange it, but she refused. "Absolutely not. I look like a million
bucks in this dress, and I'm wearing it.. Let your mother find something
else," she replied.

Jennifer told her mother who thought a minute and then graciously said,
"Never mind sweetheart. I'll get another dress. After all, it's your
special day."

A few days later, they went shopping and did find another gorgeous dress.
When they stopped for lunch, Jennifer asked her mother, "Are you going
to return the other dress? You really don't have another occasion where
you could wear it." Her very wise and quick-witted mother just smiled
and replied,"Of course I do, dear. I'm wearing it to the rehearsal dinner!"

Another Email Joke

Read the following slowly to get the full effect.

Avoidable: What a bullfighter tries to do. (...avoid a bull)

Arbitrator: A cook that leaves Arby's to work at McDonald's.

Bernadette: The act of torching a mortgage.

Burglarize: What a crook sees with.

Control: A short, ugly inmate.

Counterfeiters: Workers who put together kitchen cabinets.

Eclipse: what an English barber does for a living.

Eyedropper: a clumsy ophthalmologist.

Heroes: what a guy in a boat does.

Left Bank: what the robber did when his bag was full of loot.

Misty: How golfers create divots.

Paradox: two physicians.

Parasites: what you see from the top of the Eiffel Tower.

Pharmacist: a helper on the farm.

Polarize: what penguins see with.

Primate: removing your spouse from in front of the TV.

Relief: what trees do in the spring.

Rubberneck: what you do to relax your wife.

Seamstress: describes 250 pounds in a size 6.

Selfish: what the owner of a seafood store does.

Sudafed: brought litigation against a government official.

Subdued ...like a guy, like, who works on one of those Attack Submarines.

Saturday Question of the Day

Every Saturday I'll try to come up with some "out there" question that just makes you stop and think about something not so important. Think of it as a mini vacation. If you have any ideas drop me a line and we'll throw it in here. Who knows, it might be fun.

OK - Here goes:

What's your favorite type of cookie?

Now, my expansive career in the food and beverage industry would lead me to believe that majority of you will say Chocolate Chip. But, I'm going out on a limb here, because I think you all are pretty original folks. I'm kind of anxious to see what you have to say. (Hey, it's early on a Saturday morning, I've been up for over an hour already and have a training class in 2 hours in Daytona Beach - work with me kids!!)

I love cookies. They're sweet, portable and come in many, many varieties. But the ones I can't stop eating, have to grab one every time I walk by the container are Oatmeal Scotchies. I love oatmeal cookies, and when you add in the butterscotch chips you add in a bit of nirvana (in my humble opinion). If I can't get my hands on those, I really enjoy oatmeal raisin, but those have to be homemade - the cookie companies haven't quite mastered that batter yet.

So - ya got a nice tall glass of milk - or a fresh cup of coffee - a few minutes of piece and quiet, what type of cookie are enjoying?

Oh HELL No!!

Smash just posted something that has me yelling out loud!! Oh Hell NO!! THIS WILL NOT HAPPEN AGAIN!!

Seems a young military veteran, who had served in Iraq, was marching in a parade on the 4th of July in Bainbridge Island. He wore his medals and carried a "Veterans for Bush" sign.

The crowd called him a Baby Killer. They called him a Murderer. They Booed him.

Again I say - Oh HELL No. I was too young when this happened the last time to do more than question people when they made these horrible accusations back in the '60s and '70s. I remember thinking it was wrong. It's still wrong. And now I'm all grown up and can help make it stop.

Smash urges us to fight back. The link will take you the website for Protest Warriors. Follow it.

I've got to come clean with you all. I was so impressed this week with both Smash and Da Goddess and what they have been doing, I wrote about how important it is that we do something. Well I did. Today I recieved confirmation of my membership in the Celebration FL chapter of the Protest Warriors. We're new, we're small. But that doesn't mean we can't make an impact. I had to look for a chapter that was close to me. With my work schedule what it is, I knew how important that was.

Yeah, I'm busy. But you know what.....hell will freeze over before I sit back and let this crap happen all over again. What about you?

UPDATE: Matt, @ Blackfive, has more information on this story. Again, I have to shake my head in wonder. This Can't be happening again. It can't. WE CAN'T LET IT!!!

UPDATE #2 7/11/04: Jennifer Martinez has a recent update on this situation and the reaction in Bainbridge Island. Good Intel, go and check it out.

So, How'd You Sleep Last Nite??

I've hinted several times at the product I sell. I've mentioned sleep, stores, mattress, etc. So I might as well just come clean and tell you. That way I can give you a bit of a lecture and you'll know I'm trained on what I'm talking about. I am a sales rep for a mattress company. Yeah folks, I sell mattresses. Doesn't sound all that interesting, but it is. I've learned so much about sleep and how vital it is. I've been to more training than you can shake a stick at. So, while not a PhD I am a bit of an expert.

One of the questions I press my sales associates to always ask a consumer is "How'd you sleep last night." It gets the customer talking and helps them realize that maybe they didn't sleep so well, maybe a new mattress would help.

What I want to talk about here is how sleep deficit really does effect the quality of your life. Did you know that having 1 drink on 6 hours sleep effects your body like 6 drinks on 8 hours sleep? Really, it does. 6 hours of sleep or less = 50% lower resistance to viral infections. One hour of sleep deprivation = 25% loss in productivity. Quality of sleep is as important as quantity of sleep.

Getting a good nights sleep is important. I know. What's so funny about me being in this business is that I have always suffered from insomnia. I used to go 3 days without sleep then crash for a day and do it all over again. I was always sick, always in a bad mood and generally not a nice person to be around. When I got this job, I was actually relieved to know it was lack of sleep and not some mental condition. (At least not totally!)

So......what can we do to help promote a good nights sleep? Well, make sure you have a good mattress. That is really important. It should support your body and not cause any pressure point pains. Every brand has good and not so good mattresses. You have to try them out. You have to lay on them to know if they are right for you. And I'm not talking sitting on the edge and bouncing - stretch out on that bad boy. Lay there for a while. Roll over on your side. Close your eyes. FEEL the damn mattress. It's ok. Nobody's gonna laugh at your or take advantage of you. If you don't do that, the chances of getting a mattress that isn't right for you are pretty strong. Also - if you have an older mattress, remember the first bed you lay on is gonna feel like heaven. Its new, its better, but it may not be right. Try out 2 or three. This isn't a decision you should make in a short period of time. Oh - and it's one of those instances where you really do get what you pay for. If it seems like the deal is too good to be true, it is. Believe me, not all mattresses are made the same.

Also - make your bedroom a haven. It should be dark, quiet and comfortable. If it's too hot or cold that will disturb your sleep. If you've got blinking neon lights outside or are constantly being woke up due to loud noices, do what you can to minimize that.

I'm not going to bore you with all the technical talk about sleep cycles and such. If you are interested in learning more about sleep, how important it is to the quality of your life and how to get a better nights sleep I suggest the book Power Sleep by Dr. James Maas. He has several other books out there that deal with sleep and sleep issues. Really, it's interesting stuff.

Somethin' in the Air

The air just felt different. Heavier. Even for Florida. I couldn't put my finger on it, but it was different.

Then I saw this: Thousands From Bay Area Line Up For Kerry and Edwards

It wasn't just heavier - there was a GREAT influx of hot air comin' from the west coast of this state.

Here are a couple of lines that caught my attention:

Kerry quipped that he and Edwards have a better vision, and a better understanding of what's happening in America. And, he added, "We have better hair."

I cannot even begin to comment my thoughts on that line. Better Hair??? Oh, and how 'bout this one:

He recited the similarities between him and Edwards: "We're both lawyers. His name is John, my name is John. He was named People magazine's Sexiest Man of the Year, I read People magazine."

The article also mentions that they showed off a "light-hearted style that had been missing from Kerry campaign events". Hmmm - still wonder why he chose Edwards?!?!

Now I admit I'm biased. I make no secret of that. I don't like Kerry and DO NOT WANT HIM AS MY PRESIDENT. So, you can imagine why I loved this line, from the chairman of the Bush/Cheney campaign in the Southeast:

"What voters in the South are looking for is not someone who shares the same zip code or shares the same accent. They're looking for someone who shares their values."

I hope he's right.

Dating

Let me see how many people I can run off with this post. Let's talk about internet dating, shall we!! Afterall, when I first started blogging, over at the old house, I said in that VERY FIRST POST, that this site would include insight into the life of a SINGLE road warrior.

Scared yet? Hmmmm, you all are a pretty tough crowd.

Yes, I've tried internet dating. More than once. Much to the chagrin of my family and friends. I gotta tell you, it doesn't work so well for me. No, not so well at all. Oh, now I've met some pretty great guys that way. A couple of them are still pretty good friends. But it's not a pleasant process, especially when you are an eternal optimist that takes people at face value.

Let's see - there was they guy that seemed oh so nice, till we met for a drink one afternoon. The waitress happened to make a comment on something we were casually discussing and he went off on her. Told her she should "remember her place". Then, after she left proceeded to chastise me for "encouraging her". Yeah, that went pretty much like you are imagining. The funny thing is, even after a bit of a "set down" by yours truely he kept calling - he thought it was a great afternoon. HELLO, what part of Drop Dead did you not understand????

Then of course there was the guy that wanted to introduce me to his parents after 1 date. And that was just a drink, during happy hour, at a very busy bar and grill on the beach. What?? Meet the Parents? Why? Seems he thought meeting me the parents would back off on any pressure they were applying for him to settle down. Not sure how to take that. No - don't think so.

Then there is the infamous date with Ghingus Kahn. Oh yes, the first date after the seperation. I arrive at the agreeded upon location, he's late. He arrives wearing carharts to a nice upscale resturant and then throws a fit when they won't seat him. We go to another resturant. He will not look me in the eye, if you get my drift. In the middle of a converstation he blurts out "What size bra did you say you wear?" Ummmm - I didn't. See Ya, I'm outta here. Had to change my number to get rid of that one.

Then there was Mr. Perfect. Oh My Goodness. Talk about the whole package. Charm, looks, intelligence, manners, good background, can support himself - what more can a girl ask for. Hmmmm, let's try being SINGLE! Yeah, bastard ended up married. That was a kick in the gut, to say the least.

So......here's my take on it. Internet dating? Nope, not gonna do it ever again. Thrilled it works for some people, but I'm steppin off that bus.

And, you friends of mine out there!! You know who you are........No Blind Dates!! NONE. Don't Do IT!!!! I've got a cache of those stories too, just waiting to be told.

UPDATE: Dating overall seems to be "The" topic right now. Go, read the great advice Doc has to offer at Bloodletting. Hat tip Jay at Accidental Verbosity.

Nite Ya'll

Well shoot.

The training went really well this morning. They LOVED the new packet I put together and it really worked well as a leaders guide for me. There are a couple of things I want to add, but can do that later this week.

I did get to finally meet the "head honcho" for this customer. Nice guy, a little mad because of the changes, but some people just hate change. That's all right. I'll give him all the time he needs.

However, he kinda backed me into a corner. I let him vent (that's what a good sales rep does afterall). Then after I say -

Well, XYZ is my main focus. You tell me what you need and I'll make it happen.

Him: Well, the delivery drivers need training on the new item. How soon can you do that?

ME: When do you want it done? I can adjust my schedule.

Him: 6:00AM tomorrow

well shit. Folks, that's 6 o clock in the MORNING!!!! Normally I'm just hitting the snooze button about that time, and the coffee pot has just started grinding the beans.

6:00am?!?!?! Now I realize many of you have to be at work at that time, or earlier. Heck, I did for years and years and years. But you have to realize, I'm a full blown spoiled rotten sales rep now. This is not happy news for me.

So....I'll be getting up at 3:00am so that I can make sure and make it ther by 5:45. Can't be late, I only have a 30 min. window. Oh, that's right. Did I mention that the meeting itself will not last as long as the drive there will!!!!!

Ohhhhh.......the things I do for my customers.

Ok - I'm off to sleep. You all talk amongst yourselves.

UPDATE: Customer 1 Tammi 0: Got up just fine (thanks for the phone call my friend) and stopped on the way to pick up 2 dozen donuts, 1 dozen bagels and some cream cheese. Got to the meeting right on time. 6:00am. 4 drivers show up. 4. F O U R. The meeting lasted 15 mins.

The good news. Found a new way into town with less congestion and discovered a new theme park - Spledid China (or something like that). Just what we need here in Orlando, another theme park.

Oh, and traffic at 5:15 in the morning. No Problem. Probably a good thing after I drove over the median on my way into the gas station. :)

Good, But Never Good Enough

Why oh why can I never be satisfied with my work??? I do new hire training for my largest customer on a regular basis. I have a great little packet I put together to hand out and work from. It has facts, trivia, line-ups and cheat sheets. It's really pretty good.

BUT...every time I get ready to do a new training and start printing it out I gotta change something. I add in a new article, take out some trivia, basically tweak and putter till I'm redoing the entire packet. Why can't I leave well enough alone?!?!

So last night (I'm sorry, this flippin' morning) I'm revising till way too late and then printing all night. Now I'll be rushed (still printing, plenty of time for posting) and I hate that.

But, it's a good packet. It's really good. I like it. A Lot. Until next time.......

Compliment or Insult

Lex has a post up from last night that highlights a little incident that occured while he and his family were enjoying the fireworks. Seems some guy, not a friend of his familys - someone they had just met, a friend of a friend - decided to lay hands on The Hobbit while she was in a somewhat vulnerable position. That a bit vauge for you - well let me spell it out. While she was bending over picking something up, this jerk decided to slap her on the ass. Lex let him know that wasn't acceptable on any level. Not one bit. AND he did it with class. I like that. A Lot.

So - it begs the question, is this something that happens a lot? What's the best way to handle it?

First, yes, it does happen a lot. Too Much. Now, I will not even attempt to know what is going on in the minds of those that believe it is alright to lay their hands on a woman, ANYONE for that matter, that they do not know and in a way that is, shall we say discourteous. I can, however, tell you what goes on in MY mind when it happens to me.

STOP TOUCHING ME!!! I DON'T KNOW YOU AND I DON'T WANT YOU TOUCHING ME. Usually, if that doesn't work (and believe me, sometimes it doesn't) Stop Touching Me will be accompanied by the Look Of Death.

But here's the real question. WHY?? Why do I even have to do this? Why does any one, man or woman, have to actually say out loud to strangers or those that they don't know so well that they do not want them touching them?

I know all about the fact that there are some people out there that just don't think. Yada Yada Yada. What I want to know is a real REASON. What is going through someone's mind when a woman walks by or bends over and they take their hand and apply it to their most vulnerable person?

Next - I've never had anyone step in and deflect any of these types of incidents. I've always had to handle them myself. (Reminds me of the time a biker got a bit out of line at my ex's favorite watering hole, in front of him and 10 of his favorite drunks and I had to physically defend myself, but anyway..) What do YOU think is the best way to handle these situations? Would you step in if it happened to someone you were with?

Just curious. Lex got me to thinkin' again!!!

I'm So Impressed

So did anyone else click on the internet feed and listen to Smash and Da Goddess on the radio tonite??

In my afternoon checks I saw that Smash had updated his post talking about Victory Vigil III and he said he would be on KOGO 600 and was kind enough to provide a link for the internet stream.

Well, I couldn't resist. I just had to listen. Imagine my surprise when I got a 2 for 1 deal. Smash AND Joanie. Both did a fantastic job. Smash talked about the PROTEST WARRIORS and Da Goddess shared this story of the of the "supporter of peace" that couldn't.....couldn't find his way out of a paper bag, couldn't manage to have an intelligent NON-OFFENSIVE conversation in front of a child. Arrggghhhh - sorry, that post gets my blood boiling.

Anyway - both Smash and Da Goddess did real good. You'd have thought I knew them, sitting here at my desk, smiling and nodding. I was so proud.

Confession

Not being one to shy away from laughing at myself, I thought I'd share a bit of an "adventure", for want of a better word, that I had this weekend.

If you've read my "About Me" post you would know that one of the things I fear is spiders. Yeah - they terrify me. Honest to goodness fear. Doesn't matter how big or small I firmly believe that they are satan's minions. But anyway -

I will kill them. I'm not so afraid that I can't do that. Oh, it took a few (alright 30) years to get to that point, but now I've no qualms at all.

So yesterday I'm talking on the phone and happen to glance out on the pool deck. Hmmmm - what is that tiny black speck just floating in the air? WHAT?!?! A SPIDER!!! Oh no, oh hell no - no spider is going to encroch on my terrain, let me tell you!!

So....with my friend still on the phone for moral support (well, and comic relief too) I bravely step out the sliding doors to investigate.

Yep - it's a spider. And what a HUGE web he had built. This sucker spread from the top of the pool cage to the ground and one corner of the deck. This will Not Do. He may have looked small, but still - yuck.

So I run back into the house and grab the hairspray. Yes, hairspray - it usually works wonderfully.

Usually. This time, it only served to piss him off. Well, I've got other weapons available. Oh, yes I do. So, still on the phone I go over to the hose and attach the sprayer. I put the water pressure on full and sprayed that SOB into the next door neighbors arena. YEAH!! Take that you, you, you spider you!!!

As the rush of excitement dies I become aware of the laughter coming from the phone. Oops, I probably sounded a bit like Rambo taking on the enemy.

Oh well, the spider is gone. That's all I care about. Oh - and as an added bonus the grill got rinsed off too!!

Don't Be Afraid

It's alright to tell me I'm wrong. It's alright to say that something looks bad, or doesn't make sense. I won't perish when faced with disagreement. Really - I won't.

It really frustrates me when I find out after the fact that someone didn't like or disagreed with something I did. Now, let's clarify that - someone being someone I like and/or admire. I'm not takin' advise from just any cracked pot, afterall.

Anyway - I'm always amazed when my friends tell me, "I really thought that was a bad idea", or "I knew that wasn't going to work". WELL THEN SAY SOMETHING!!!!!

In my humble opinion friendship is a committment. A committment to be loyal, to be supportive, but to also BE HONEST. Believe me, if I don't understand what the hell you're doing, or disagree with something you say, I'll ask you about it. Oh, I won't tell you in a mean way, I'll just ask. Please be so kind as to return the favor.

You see, I am pretty opinionated (surprise surprise) and terribly independent. So - often times I'll just jump right into something and manage to get myself in trouble. Very Few People Question Me About That Stuff. Why is that? I'm not one to fly off the handle if questioned. I love a good debate, let's talk about it. If I am wrong, you might just save me trouble, time and tears. Believe me, that's a very good thing in my book.

I WISH......

OK - I'm bored. So I'm tooling through my favorite blogs and checking out their blogrolls for something new. Well over at Sgt. Hook's place I am reminded of this blog that some how didn't make the switch over. (That WILL be corrected).

Anyway Al has printed this great piece describing someone's first ride in a military jet. I'll admit - instant jealousy. For about 1/4 of the way though it. I can't find a link to just the story - but click above - it's funny. Really funny!! And the sad thing is, the author probably survived better than I would have!!

Here's My Day

The 4th of July turned out to be a pretty great day!! I wanted to share what I can and also join in with the party going on over at Mudville. What? You haven't been over there yet, well hurry up then get back here and check out my day.

So the day started with me sleeping like the angel I am. Until I hear this sound a bit like the air brakes on a semi - only louder and closer. Well crap, what is it about 7:00am here at this house??!! So I jump up to see what is going on AGAIN in my back yard, and this is what I see.

(sorry - it's the camera phone). All told 15 hot air balloons floating past my house. Pretty awesome.

So I decide it's time to start the day and make some coffee and head out to the pool deck. Spent some relaxing time laying by the pool until I need to be over at some friends house for a cookout.

After that I headed down to St. Petersburg for family time and fireworks. Here is the link to the photos (BIG thanks to cousin-in-law Jerry for the pictures). We went to St. Pete beach and had an awesome view of 8 shows in all.

St. Pete 4th of July 2004

**This is a different link that didn't need a username or password - so I took them out. It's all about making it easier**

Stayed up pretty late talking and laughing and generally enjoying everyone's company. So this morning I load up the car and head back home. This is the veiw from the Skyway bridge. (Again, sorry camera phone!)

All in all a pretty good time. I hope you all had a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend.

Happy 4th of July

It's the birthday of our Independence. It's a day to REALLY celebrate our freedom. It's a day to remember all those that are currently fighting for that freedom. It's a day for family and friends and picnic and fireworks.

ENJOY!!!!

Sgt. Hook reminds us of what this day is all about.

Greyhawk is putting together a link-fest highlighting pictures from around America showing the world how we celebrate our birthday.

I'm happy to announce that I actually have plans for the day! :) And they don't revolve around working. I managed to get most everything done yesterday so today is for celebrating and reflecting.

I'll be sharing my day in pictures tomorrow morning. I do know I'm going to be able to see the fireworks over the water and spend some time with my family.

Freedom - it's a beautiful thing!!!

More Disturbing Rumors - UPDATED

BEFORE YOU READ THIS PLEASE NOTE: The information I have seen comes from Albawaba.com so I am reading this with many many bells going off in my head. Still - I'm curious if anyone else has seen anything on it.

In searching Google News I found this story posted at 3:30pm EST.

It references an Internet Statment where the terrorists that call themselves Army of Ansar al-Sunna (putting the word ARMY in there makes my blood boil) claim to have beheaded US Marine Wassef Ali Hassoun and claim to have another hostage.

If, and I do mean IF this is true them sons of bitches just stepped into a big ole pile of shit. I'm 'bout sick and tired of these weasley chickenshit bastards sucker-punching us.

UPDATED 7/6/04: I'm seeing every where that this rumor is being refuted by the terrorists. They are saying he is alive and "in a safe place". Personally - I'll consider him safe when we have him back. Still - we must keep him, his family and friends in our prayers.

Holiday Travel

It's the holiday weekend and Greyhawk at the Mudville Gazette is pulling together "A DAY IN THE LIFE OF AMERICA" for this 4th of July. This is my part.

Once again, I amaze myself at my ability to schedule the hardest drive at the most interesting times.

So guess where I was? Go ahead, Guess

That's Right Folks - Daytona Beach Florida!! Home of the Pepsi 400 (well, this weekend anyway).

I wish the traffic wouldn't have been so heavy, I'd have gotten some great shots of the crowds. Or at least better shots from the phone/cam.

There were so many people. Everyone with their favorite racing teams' gear proudly displayed. The flags for all the different teams were snapping in the air, adding to the excitment. Even with all the people, there was nothing but a sense of fun - I didn't see any fights or hear any arguments (but then again, it was fairly early in the day). Everyone had come out to have a great day at the races and celebrate the Holiday.

Of course there was booth after booth of food and drink. What?!?! How'd that Coke booth get in here??? Don't they realize this is the PEPSI 400?? Go, Scat - get back to Atlanta where you belong! (sorry, old loyalties die hard) Ummmm, I smell fried dough. I love fried dough, especially with powdered sugar. But, doesn't go so well with beer so I better pass.

The music is blaring so loud I can hear it from my car on the street. It's fantastic. And it's not just one thing. If you listen carefully you can hear some Rock, ohhhh - there's some country!!! (If you didn't realize by now I'm a country girl at heart.) Something for everyone!!

What - you want actual pictures of the race? Are you kidding? I was working, I couldn't go. But if it makes you feel any better, I did have to pass up 2 primo seats.

UPDATE: Have I mentioned how much I love my new picture phone??!! This is the view from my family room - you can well imagine what I'll be doing after store runs are finished!!

Saturday Question of the Day

Every Saturday I'll try to come up with some "out there" question that just makes you stop and think about something not so important. Think of it as a mini vacation. If you have any ideas drop me a line and we'll throw it in here. Who knows, it might be fun.

OK - Here goes:

What is your happiest 4th of July memory? (I know, corny, but appropriate - don't ya think!)

Mine is one from the summer I turned 13. We were spending the holiday at my mother's best friends cottage with their family. We spent the entire time in the lake, swimming and playing. We grilled out every meal (yes, even breakfast) and had what, to me, was the best fireworks display I'd ever seen.

Actually, it's the only Independence Holiday that sticks out in my mind. I just remember laughing so hard my stomach hurt. Staying up late, even though I was so tired I couldn't see straight. I remember spending time with family and really CELEBRATING the day.

So, what's your favorite 4th of July memory?

ARRGGGHHHHHHH

Somebody PLEASE just put me out of my misery.

I'm sitting in my office, it's 11:00pm and I'm trying very hard to finalize my handouts and presentation for tomorrow mornings training class.

I finally get the handouts the way I want them, and what do I do? Close without saving. Yes, something just that simple, but just that stupid.

So....it's back to the drawing board. At least now I know what I WANT it to look like, and where I pulled my info from - so I guess I'm ahead of the game.

Sure doesn't feel like it.

By the way - does anyone know if Preperation H really works on under eye bags? Looks like it's gonna be a LONG night!!!

I think I Got It Covered

OK - I found this list a long time ago over at Harvey's Bad Example. I thought it made a lot of sense and have been using it to see if things were ready to move over here. So....here we go.........

Here are some technical things I like to see on a blog:

Comments enabled - CK
Permalinks working - CK
E-mail contact info available - CK
Blogger's name/pseudonym prominently displayed - as poster and in sidebar - CK
Site search feature enabled - CK
Link to an "About Me" post on the sidebar - CK
Blogger's gender is easily discernable - well, if you can't tell that ain't my fault! CK
Blogroll - CK
Readable font style & size- I think so - CK
Readable color scheme (for example, NOT bright red type on bright green
background) - CK
Divisions between posts clearly marked - CK
Paragraphing in entries (NOT just writing one fat block of text) - CK

Aside from the tech stuff, I also like to see a blogger's personality shining through, to
remind us of the person behind the words. - Well I got personality, that's for damn sure - CK

So, I think I got everything covered that Harvey listed. This site is now Open For Business.

God Bless You Marine

Matt has an update on one of the Someone You Should Know postings. Marine Sergeant Kenneth Conde died on July 1 due to injuries received from enemy action.

Go. Read it. Say a prayer. Thank God for our Military and ask his grace upon the family.

Finally

Well, I'm finally taking the Plunge. Really. As I've stated on my blogspot site, from now on all new entries will be posted over here.

Please update your blogrolls as I'd hate to lose any of you!!!

We'll get the older stuff over here as soon as we can. Meanwhile, if you want to browse what's there the site is Road Warrior Rules for Survival.

Yeah!!