Tammi's World

This is So Sad

I've mentioned before that I live in an area of all tourists. That is why I didn't decorate for Halloween. I didn't buy candy - nothing.

So tonite, I've had the most trick or treaters that I've had since I moved to Florida.

I love kids, I love Halloween. But I'm Not Prepared!!!! Every year I've bought tons of candy and end up eating it all my self. So not this year. Nope. I'm gonna control myself. So I got nothing. Not a single candy bar. Nada.

I had bought some cookie packets to send to my soldiers. I've given all of them out.

I bought puzzle books for those same soldiers. I've given those out.

I got nothin' but a can of tuna left - and I need that for lunch tomorrow!!!

Lesson Learned. Next year, buy candy. Lots-o-candy.

Now I just gotta hope nobody eggs my car this year!!

A Bit of Halloween Fun

Well the Carnival of Costumes is up and ready for the party.

WOW! We got some good ones this week.

And Harvey? Jeez Luiz man - you gotta warn a girl when your gonna post something like that. DAMN!!! **mutter, mutter, not fair for a man to look that good in a bathing suit**

Oh, and the party has started. Be very careful when you visit. You know how costumes bring out the "naughty". (watch out for those links. NSFW)

Happy Halloween All!!!

New Addition

Holy Cow!!

Dana has a new addition to her blog family. Not only are her children beautiful, but she gives birth to some OUTSTANDING BLOGGERS.

Meet Kool-Aid. Ex-military (huge points in my book) Hunter, gun enthusiast, and just damn funny guy!! (and his first post is pretty damn good.)

He's on my blogroll. Go check him out - then add him to yours.

Great to meet you Kool-Aid. Can't wait to read more.

Perfect for a Sunday

Some of you may have seen these but I just got them via e-mail.

Beautiful. Just perfect for a Sunday.

Enjoy. Here's some of the Best Photo's of 2004

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:

It's Halloween. From what I've seen over the blog world it seems to be a holiday everyone enjoys. So....tell me, what is it about Halloween that you enjoy the most?

For me it's the excitment. Not just of the kids, but everyone. It's the one holiday you really get to let your hair down. Everyone plays!!!

The first year I moved to Florida our company decided we could either dress corporate for the day or in costume. That particular year, Halloween fell on a Friday, which was my day to visit customers. They were all casual fridays, so I said I would dress up like a cowgirl. Jeans, boots, cowboy hat. Nope. Not allowed. WTF?!?! OK? You want a costume. You got it!

I wore jeans to visit my plant and then asked if they would help me play a joke on my boss. Of course they agreed. So....I went in and changed into my XXLarge flannel night gown. Put on a pair of hiking boots and tube socks. Put my hair up in rollers and then put white foundation on my face to look like cold cream. Voila! I was a redneck housewife. Everyone loved it and thought it hilariously out of character (yeah, they didn't know me so well, did they?!)

I then pulled out the digital camera and had them take a picture. (Picture has since been lost.) They printed it out and faxed it to my boss with the question asking just exactly what kind of sales people did they have that called on customers like they? Children??

I show up at the office in my costume. I followed all the rules (as far as they knew). They were not amused. I thought it was funny as hell. I didn't admit to the prank for years. He was still not amused.

I love to dress up, play pranks and hell - just play.

So what is it about Halloween that YOU enjoy the most???

Here are some links for Halloween Fun!!

A Halloween Card for YOU!!!

The History and Customs of Halloween

Halloween Central

The History Channel - the History of Halloween

Carnival of the Jammies

With it being Halloween weekend and all - Harvey has suggested we go with a costume theme for this weekend's carnival.

So........this is my choice. Of course I want the body to go with it! ;-)

I figure it's just me and my blogsisters out of a little Halloween Fun!!!!!

A Big Day

Waycross is in Southern Georgia. Gainesville Florida is 366 miles away. There's something about a 72 year football rivalry going on. 72 years!!!

Today, Jacksonville Florida - it's Gameday.

This is huge. It's all anyone was talking about. Being as we were in Georgia, all I saw was red and black every where I looked. Dawg's signs everywhere. (Did I mention I'm a Gator's fan? Yeah, that was kinda fun!)

Driving home last night on SR1 I was caught in a roadblock. About 15 cops pulling every car over right at the FL/GA border. They were checking your liscense and registration. They had the drug dogs. It took about 35 mins to get through it all. While sitting there I obsere a brand new Mercedes - gold, loaded, gorgeous. The owner and 4 of his friends were sitting handcuffed on the side of the road. They were ripping out seats, pulling up carpet, tossing gallon sized ziplock baggies across the top of the car to the Sheriff's deputy's standing there. One guy must have gotten spooked and tried to run. Probably not the smartest move at that point.

But what I'm getting at is THIS IS A REALLY BIG GAME!! Now that I'm safely ensconsed in my home I can safely say -

GO GATORS!!

Beat them Dawgs!!!

CHOMP CHOMP CHOMP

The Weary Traveler Returns

Whew. I cannot tell you how good it is to be home. I just literaly walked in the door, left my luggage in the car, hooked up the laptop and am now blogging.

I told Teresa I was even happy to see flippin' Disney World.

It's strange. It almost seems like I was in another world. I don't know if you've ever heard of Waycross, GA - but it's the middle of no where. Very limited cell service. In fact, I could get a signal, sometimes, in my hotel room and, at the plant. But there's it's a bit tricky. You have to walk outside of the building. If you stand in the 3rd handicap slot and face north you get 2 bars. Seriously. Yeah - I love my friends and family, but I have to admit, that didn't really work for me.

So - no cell, no personal e-mail (tracking devices in place), no real blogging. And I missed you all so much. I can't wait to visit you and find out what the hells been goin' on!!

But first, back to me. :-)

The week overall was pretty good. Well, sorta. Started out learning about our new product line. Holy Cow!! It is truly the coolest thing I have ever seen. Ever. I cannot wait to get out in the field and start telling people about it. I will save you all for now, as I do not want this blog to become an advertisement. But trust me - it is very, very mind boggeling.

But - I had 68 total products to learn. They've all changed. They've all improved. We had 1 day to learn it all. Our retailers started showing up on Wednesday and we had to not only explain and sell our new (very cool) product but explain in detail the construction of our other mattresses. If any one asks me another question about coils or foam in the next couple of days my head is going to explode.

Monday night we went to LuLu's for dinner and celebrated the boss's 50th birthday. I was so tired I barely remember that I ordered a really bad meal. Tuesday - training and studying. Tuesday night we went to the best resturant in town. Applebees. Yea. You getting the picture?

Wednesday we all cut loose to celebrate the fact that we survived the first day of market. It was tough. So we drank. At LuLu's. They had entertainment. His name was Bubba. He sang Rock-A-Billy songs with taped back up. He actually wasn't bad. Oh - and he blew fire. Yeah, he'd take a shot of Absolute and then blow out over a lighter. I swear to God he singed my eyebrows. And then there was the wonderful interlude when he was singing "Shameless" and walked in to the bathroom with his cordless mic. and took a piss. Yea - we were styling now.

Thursday everyone was playing poker. As I don't play, I went to the room for some quality Tammi time. I lasted about 20 mins before I was fast asleep. As much as I hate being by myself all the time, I really needed some time for just me.

Today I was hoping to leave by 1:00. That didn't really work out too well. I didn't get to talk to my boss until 3:00. Won't go into the details, except to say I have a job, I'll get a pay check, I'll just be going back to traveling all over this damn state again until after the new year. Shit. BUT....it's a job. Easier to find one when you have one.

So....after a long long long drive home (5 hours) and some interesting events (DO NOT stop at a T/A truckstop after dark if you are a woman traveling alone - not such a good idea) I'm back. I'm blogging.

Thank you all for your comments, prayers and good wishes. Damn, I missed ya'll. I'm going to check out comments, go visiting and then hit the hay. I've got a 9:00am training class and right now I'm having trouble remembering my own damn name!!!

But I'm Home!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Shhh Be Very Quiet

I'm sneaking in to let you know it's Wednesday and I still have a job. WooHoo.

We're in the middle of our "market" showing off the new product line. Holy Cow!!! If people don't fall in love with these there is something wrong.

Anyway - thank you all for your thoughts and comments. I still haven't met with my boss so have no idea what's in my future. I just know I'm still here, still gettin' a paycheck.

I'm not complaining!!!

Back as soon as I can.

A Bit of Support

Lee Ann of Lee Ann's view is going through a rough time right now.

Her husband is in the hospital.

Slip on over there and let her know you care. It'll help.

Love you Sweetie!! Don't forget while you taking such good care of that Beloved Husband of yours, to take care of yourself too!!!

They Say It's Your Birthday!!

OK - I'm late, I know, but there's been some stuff goin on and...I know. I'm sorry.

Happy Birthday To My BlogBro GEBIV at There's One, Only. His birthday was Saturday the 23rd. And he was kind enough to let us know what to get him. (afraid of all those boobie pictures you might get, Dude?)

He wants bad jokes. Not only that, but he wants bad, CLEAN jokes!! Yeah.

So here you go. Here are a few clean bad jokes just for your birthday.

Our Family History
Dear Abby:

I have always wanted to have my family history traced, but I can't afford to spend a lot of money to do it. Any suggestions?
/s/
Sam in California

Dear Sam:

Yes. Run for public office.
/s/
Abby

Family Discipline
A couple had two little boys, ages 8 and 10, that were excessively mischievous. The two were always getting into trouble and their parents could be assured that if any mischief occurred in their town their two young sons were in some way involved.

The parents were at their wits end as to what to do about their sons' behavior. The mother had heard that a clergyman in town had been successful in disciplining children in the past, so she asked her husband if he thought they should send the boys to speak with the clergyman. The husband said, "We might as well. We need to do something before I really lose my temper!"

The clergyman agreed to speak with the boys, but asked to see them individually. The 8-year-old went to meet with him first. The clergyman sat the boy down and asked him sternly, "Where is God?" The boy made no response, so the clergyman repeated the question in an even sterner tone, "Where is GOD?" Again the boy made no attempt to answer, so the clergyman raised his voice even more and shook his finger in the boy's face, "WHERE IS GOD?"

At that the boy bolted from the room and ran directly home and hid in his closet. His older brother followed him into the closet and said, "What happened?"

The younger brother replied, "We are in BIG trouble this time. God is missing and they think we did it"

Some One Liners

What do you call a boomerang that doesn't work?
A stick.

What do you get when you cross a snowman with a vampire?
Frostbite.

What lies at the bottom of the ocean and twitches?
A nervous wreck.

What goes clop, clop, clop, bang,bang,clop clop clop?
An amish drive-by shooting

Just Plain Bad...

A termite walks into a bar and asks, "Is the bar tender here?"

A Word of Warning

Well, I've finished cleaning off the laptop. I saved anything I really needed to disc and have emailed myself any links I didn't have memorized.

I leave for Georgia tomorrow. Meeting the team at our plant up there to learn about our new line and have a mini-market. (That's when our larger customers come up and we introduce the new line and they place their sample orders. It's supposed to be fun.)

I'm willing to admit I'm nervous as hell. In all reality I fully expect to have them request my laptop and to be laid-off. I haven't heard a word from any of our management about the fact that we are not shipping to my main customer. Now, the no communication is normal. But you'd think they would at least call to let me know they are working on some plans and we would discuss them this week. No, nothing.

I also admit that I am planning for the worst and praying for the best. Nothing would make me happier than to come back Friday night and tell you all that I was way parinoid. I'd love to have to write that. But I'm not planning on it.

It will be rather difficult to post this next week - if I am able to stay the entire time. Last time I was there internet connection was horrible, cell phones also. I'll post when I can and try to let ya'll know what's going on.

As much as I dislike my job right now, it is a job. I've worked very hard this past year, moving some place I didn't want to move. Giving up time with my friends and family to establish myself in this market. Spending countless hours on the computer trying to learn as much as possible, and keep up with the reports and emails required. I'd hate for it to end this way.

I didn't want anyone to worry if you don't see anything new for a while. I'm a pretty crafty kinda gal, so I'll find ways to drop you a note now and again, but it won't be like normal.

Do me a favor, please. Say a prayer, cross your fingers, what ever it is you do for luck. I'm gonna need all I can get.

Very Cool

Saw this at Randy's place and had to try it out.

You Are a Pundit Blogger!

Your blog is smart, insightful, and always a quality read. Truly appreciated by many, surpassed by only a few.

I took it twice to make sure. Damn!! I really like this quiz. ;-)

Who'da thunk!

So what'd you come up with???

I'd Like to Explain

Harvey linked to the Stolen Honor post I have below. In his comments I said this:

I remember when Kerry testified. It was the year before my father died. What I remember the most is how FURIOUS Daddy was. I mean damn straight mad. And he didn't get mad. Ever that I remember - except for that.

Tammi exemplified on October 23, 2004 at 09:17 PM

The response was all I had to do was look in the archives and it was all there. So I did, and I'm ashamed of myself.

I've always been political. I've always supported our military 100%. But I didn't always do all the research I should have.

This is not an excuse - it's an attempt at an explaination. Mostly to myself as to how I could have been so ignorant.

I do remember Kerry's testimony. I was 9 yrs old, and the main reason I remember is that my Daddy got mad. Furious. The most pissed off I had ever known him to be. That got my attention. I wanted to understand what had happened so that I could understand why he was so mad.

My parents didn't talk about politics in front of us. They didn't talk much about the war, as in those day's parents tended to shelter their kids a bit more than is the norm these days. I wasn't allowed to watch the news. They felt the footage from Viet Nam was too much for a young girl. But kids hear things, kids see things. So I had a pretty good grasp of what was going on for a girl that knew no one directly serving.

In school, if they talked about Viet Nam, it was the same shit they taught everywhere. The same lies. I would question them and get in trouble, so I stopped asking my questions out loud. Daddy was gone by then and Mama wouldn't talk about it. She didn't know how. She grew up in a pacifist household, disagreed, but didn't know how to have that discussion.

I knew from what I was able to hear that Jane Fonda was an active war protester. I knew she was often talking on TV and doing all these protests and marches. But I didn't know she had the gall, the lack of character to actually go to Viet Nam and visit the POW camps. To be honest I didn't think that ANYONE, any AMERICAN would ever do something like that.

I never looked any farther. Because the idea was so foreign to me, in my mind it just was not possible.

That came to a crashing halt when I saw the documentary Stolen Honor. I never liked her before - now I cannot express my distain. My disgust.

I guess what I'm saying is I'm sorry. I'm sorry I didn't know. I'm sorry I didn't research. I'm sorry I couldn't concieve the idea that someone could be so low.

A bit of me is gone now. That bit that actually believed that all people have some bit of decency in them, however small. I'll never trust in the same way.

I will never make the same mistake again.

This Game is Personal

Buc's vs. Bears. YeeHaw!!

Today, in Tampa. Damn damn damn - I wish I could be there. Time was, I attended every one of these games. And the funny thing is, there are just as many Bear's fans as Buc's when it's played at Raymond James.

Ahh the memories. Back in '96 when I first moved here I was still a Bear's fan. The game on December 22nd 1996 the Tampa Bay Buccaneers beat the Chicago Bears 34 to 19 and I was there. I was asked to leave that game....ok, I was thrown out of that game. They said that I was aggrivating the visitor's. In my defense I was simply explaining how to play the game of football and what it takes to win. Yeah, I was standing at the railing just behind them. Yeah, I was kinda loud. No, I wasn't very nice. Yeah, I took my Bears sweatshirt off and threw it at them - but I had another on beneath it.

That was the last time I cheered for the Bears with any heartfelt enthusiasm. I've been a Tampa Bay Bucs fan since that day.

We need this game. Badly. Good news is that Joe Jurevicius is BACCCKKKKK!!! Yeah! Damn, I hope he stays healthy. I love to watch him make plays. Michael Pittman, while not my favorite person, is on a roll right now. If we're gonna play him, at least let him play well. Brian Griese will be starting QB and I'm thrilled. He seems to have found a home with us and is doing very well. Please Lord, let the front line do their job.

On defense we should be doing better than we are. Ronde Barber seems to be doing pretty well this year, and Derrick Brooks, well he's Mr. Derrick Brooks. As Always. I haven't heard as much from Simeon Rice as I would like to. After 6 games only 10 tackles and 2 sacks he's a bit behind his usual stats. I hope what ever funk he's in passes, and quickly. He's a major part of this defense.

Yeah - I warned ya'll. I love my football!!!

So, you can bet your sweet ass I'm geared up for this one. It's personal.

Let The Trash Talk Begin

Do you all know what's coming up? Come on, think about it.

Yeah, we vote on Nov. 2 - but that's not what I'm talking about here.
Yeah, Halloween is Oct. 31, - but that's not it either
Yean, Nov. 3 is culture day in Japan - no, not that either.

NOV. 6 My Fighting Irish will be taking on the University of Tennesse Volunteers. In Tennessee. Holy Crap, Lion Tours - that's gonna be interesting.

You might remember what happened the last time a team I follow played the Volunteers. Not good. Not good at all.

I've got some friends that are diehard UT fans. Eric?? Johnny_Oh? BloodSpite? Yeah - I'm talkin' to you!!!!

I hearby declare the gauntlet thrown. What'cha got guys?

No.....there will be no more pictures of body parts. Surely we can come up with something better than that. Put on your creative thinking caps.

I'm saying here and now, I do believe in Miracles. I do (clicking the heels of her red shoes together). I believe the Irish will come into Your House and WIN on Nov. 6th.

I'm a Gator's fan....but when it comes to My Irish - well, let's just say I can get a bit "rowdy".

Ha......let the trash talk begin.

My Happy Place

Today is Saturday Oct. 23rd. Notre Dame is playing Boston College at Notre Dame.

I love this series. Love it Love it Love it.

AND...I'm gonna be home to watch it! WooHoo.

Least you doubt my devotion to my boys - here I am in my happy place!

Yeah, I'm freezing my ass off, but I'm on "holy ground"!!!

Go Irish Beat those Eagles!!!!!!!!!!!!!

UPDATE: Irish lose by 1 flippin' point as the Eagles score with 54 seconds left in the game.

It's always a close game, always a good game. It just would have been a great game if we would have won. Man, I bet South Bend jails are full tonite. Some pissed off Irish.

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:

This week's question comes from my lovely and talented Blogsis Sally at Whimsey Capricious. Thanks Sally - I appreciate the help more than you know!!

Scents are known to trigger powerful memories. Which scent "sends you back", to certain events / times in your life?

For me that is such a difficult question. I have the scents of home, baking bread, cinnamon, apple, my mothers pefume. But then I have the scents of my adult professional life. Metal being welded, shipping oil - I know that sounds strange, but those are actually a huge comfort for me. Takes me to a time I was so happy, confident, strong.

But I think the scent that always has and always will bring me comfort is good coffee brewing. It's the first thing I would notice as I woke up in the morning as a child. I knew everything was alright cause Mama was making coffee. Now, it still gives me that feeling of security, love and home.

There is nothing that makes me melt like someone bringing me a cup of coffee first thing in the morning. Yeah - that's a good thing.

So which scent "sends you back", to certain events / times in your life?

WooHoo

I just hit my 10,000 visitor on this site. That's since July 1, and without almost the entire month of September. THIS ROCKS!!

My visitor came over from Sarah at Trying to Grok. (Whose site is one of the first I check every single morning) Thank you!!

My other site is at 9,354 and the traffic goes back and forth a bit between the two.

But 10,000 hits in approx 3 months is very cool. Thank You All So Much.

Speaking of milemarkers - Harvey has 1000 posts in just under 6 months. Damn Dude - you ARE a writing fool! Congrats.

I know this little blog of mine would not be anywhere near what it is without my Blogfamily and all those wonderful friends that link me so often. Thank You Guys So Much.

Damn, I feel like Sally Fields - they like me, they really like me!!!

Here's to the next 10,000!!

Change of Heart - Updated

I was very excited last night. I saw on the cable guide that Stolen Honor was supposed to be on at 9:00 on the WB. So I set the timer and settle back for some interesting T.V.

Time comes and I switch over. Special showing of Charmed?!?! WTF. So I check the guide again, and sure enough I hadn't imgained it.

I could be wrong about it being the WB as I can't find a mention of it. But I do know it was replaced by Charmed - which adds some credability that I'm correct on the channel also.

So.....I wonder if it was a local decision to not play it, or if the WB Big Wigs changed their mind? Did anyone happen to catch it?

UPDATE: Via a commenter over at Blackfive's Here is a link to the documentary, free on-line. It's OUTSTANDING. Only 42 mins. long. Pass the word. It needs to be seen. It should have been seen decades ago.

Compare/Contrast

This is kinda interesting.

Here is GWB's new ad - Wolves. Pretty good. Tells us we must be vigilant - the wolves are at the door. I like it.

Here is the DNC's response.

Funny - I think they're a bit confused. Compare the two candidates and I'd say GWB is behaving EXACTLY like an eagle.

What are your thoughts?

Welcome, Please...come in

Harvey is showing us his cyber living room. Interesting, not surprising but interesting.

So in the spirit of family, I'd like to invite you into MY cyber living room.

If money were no object this is petty darn close.

Have a seat

I LOVE a fireplace, and lots of light. Seating for everyone. Not big on some of the accessories, but you get the general idea.

So come on in.....what can I get ya?

Well Shit

Son of a gun. It looks like my main account has decided it doesn't want to play with us anymore. So....we're taking all our toys and going home. Now, it's not written in stone yet, but - it ain't pretty.

How does that effect me? Well, since you asked - my entire paycheck was wrapped up in that account. Every penny I make was tied to their sales. Yeah - this sucks wet socks.

Oh, so far I still have a job. But as we restructure assignments and territories and such, and I am the new kid on the block, don't look all that good.

Funny thing is it has nothing to do with me. I only handle one division and we were rockin' and rollin'. I actually had sales people calling me to celebrate a sale they made or to thank me for a training class. Nothing I did or didn't do had any impact on this decision. Still - well, you know the saying. Shit rolls down hill.

On the flip side - you've more than picked up the fact that I'm open for a career change. Thinking about stepping outside the sales world and going into a Sales Trainer position. I've got the knowledge and experience. I do really good training and I love it. So...that's what I'm going to gear towards. I kinda like the idea of a troop of mini-me's out there in the world. LOL *BEG*

Anyway - that's what's happening here in the Road Warrior World. I had the melt down the other day, now it's time to be practicle. I leave for Georgia next week for the entire week. Will know more when I return from there.

But....if you know anyone looking for a trainer, let me know. I'm good. Really I am. :-)

UPDATE: Yep, it's offical. My main account just ended our business relationship. Son of a Bitch. ***damnit, where'd I put that silver lining this time?!?!?**

THIS is Fun

Via Truth Laid Bear we have a new and wonderful thing. A blogburst.

Hero's for Bush.

Here's the scoop:

What: A blogburst where bloggers will channel their favorite characters of TV, movies, and fiction showing their support for President Bush's re-election.

- Creativity counts, but so does realism: putting words in a character's mouth which don't fit the character is lame, and no fun. Posts suggesting that Willow is voting Bush will be received with skepticism. Posts suggesting that Evil Willow is voting Bush will be received with approval, and little surprise.

Everyone did a great job!! I'm not nearly that creative so I'm enjoying the hell out of it.

About Darn Time

Dana shares a letter that is way past due. A letter published in her local paper.

A Thank You to President Bush

Like it or not.....

it's that time of year. Yep. Holiday Season.

It starts with Halloween and ends at New Years. Actually if you spend as much time in the stores and malls as I do it ends at Valentines Day, but I refuse to go along with that.

Now, time was that I vigorously participated in all the major holidays - Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas. Last few years - not so much.

Let's start with Halloween. I LOVE Halloween. I remember Daddy really decorating the front yard, playing spooky music for our trick or treaters. Hell, it was more fun to stay home and help him than trick or treat. I kept that tradition alive for years. When I was married and had the boys, I'd decorate the entire house. Creatively. And every year it was just different enough to hide surprises for them. Then, I'd dress up and put a cute little costume on the cat and sit outside on the front porch and wait for our visitors. Appropriate music drawing them ever closer. Always great treats - and a few tricks thrown in just to keep everyone on their toes. It seemed like even the cat got into the spirit. Hissing and arching up at interesting times. (She would never hurt anyone - expect the ex. It was like she knew it was a game and was intent on playing along).

As soon as Halloween was over I'd take the scary stuff down and put up the Fall stuff. Leaves, pumpkins, scarecrows - lots of apple and dusky sents. The house was awash with the feelings of fall. Lots of baking in preparation of Thanksgiving day.

Christmas. Ahhh yes, Christmas. My very very favorite holiday. I still believe in Santa and will until the day they say the final good-bye. I have a huge Christmas tree, a huge load of pretties. I have to pack up half my stuff just to put out Christmas. I used to start the day after Thanksgiving. Now that I spend most Thanksgivings alone I start on that day. It takes an entire day just to put the tree up. Then the next to decorate the tree and start with the other pretties. Overall it's a 4 day event. Ending with the traditional Lighting of the House. The evening I have finally finished the last little bit - I start out with lighting all the candles. Making sure I have plenty of warming tarts to fill the air with the frangrance of home - for me it's apple, cinnimon, wine. No pine as Mama was always allergic and I never really got to know that scent. Then it's the lighting of the tree. Sit back with holiday music and enjoy it all. Ahh yes - the Christmas Season.

This year I'll not be decorating for Halloween. My neighborhood is all tourists so there will be no trick or treaters. Everyone will be at Universal Studios' Halloween Horror Nights. Yeah - I'm good, but I can't top that!

I will be taking the time to make the place nice for Thanksgiving. I'm getting ready to put out all my fall candles and spice it up a bit. You see, I'm going home for the Thanksgiving weekend. It's our Family Reunion and the year that everyone is required to attend (so says Mama Vi - and I'm not arguing with HER!) Then I will be bringing Mama home with me for a little over a month. This is only the 2nd time she's visited me in Florida and the longest she has ever stayed. It'll be the first Christmas season I haven't been alone in over 9 years. I'm pretty excited.

We'll be putting up all the pretty stuff and really decking this place out. I'm buying a new camera before the reunion and I WILL have pictures. This house is gorgeous on any day - I can't wait to see it all dressed up!!

Added bonus is I actually have a real live, honest to goodness weekend off. A Saturday and a Sunday. So....this weekend it's time to start with the fall extravaganza. I've been wandering around trying to decide what goes where. I've picked out some very nice candles for strategic places and have ideas for interesting vingettes of color.

Like it or not folks - It's Holiday Season!!!! I, for one, am looking forward to it.

Excuse Me

If I could just finish a flippin' phone conversation....

I finally have my cell phone forwarded to the house phone when I'm home. That's nice. BUT....now that I have a chance to chat with some wonderful people on the phone I never get the chance to finish the call.

I don't have voicemail on the house phone. It screws with the fax machine. So if someone calls in I have to take it. That kinda sucks.

I feel like that idiot on that Cingular commercial. It feels rude.

So, to all of you wonderful friends that I've been trying to talk with - please be patient. I'd much rather talk to you!!!

Good Thing I'm Medicated

Ok so Harvey's down, Teresa's down, Eric's down, Mad Fish is down, Johnny_oh is down, GBEIV is down, Michele is down, Key is down, Heather is down, Jennifer is down, Tim is down, Oh My Goodness even LeeAnn the cheese mistress is down!!!!

DAMNIT - I can't blog properly without these people!!! Give them back to us! NOW!!!!!!!!!

Is it some sort of Liberal Left Wing conspiracy?!?!

I'm going through withdrawl. Where's the cup of coffee?!?!

Updated:
THANK YOU! Now I'm happy - they are all back where they belong.

True Love

I was puttering around the house trying to get organized and came across my childhood photo album. There I found this great picture, taken in the late '60's of my Grandparents on one of their anniversarys.

They had just left the Amish church, (other wise there wouldn't even be a picture).

Grandma passed in '96, Grandpa joined her in '99. They were married almost 70 years.

How cool is that?

Doctors Have No Sense of Humor

So I had yet another doctor's appointment this morning. I'm telling you folks, one way or another I'm going to be myself again. This is a fight I will not lose.

Anyway - I get there and we sit down in the office to discuss medications. I'm a bit of a stickler on these types of things. I don't take meds lightly and I want to know all I can about what I'm taking. Side effects and how long will I be on these thing. How soon will I tell a difference and how often will we review. You know, just the normal stuff. Oh, and I will not take anything that could be considered addictive. Big Issue with that.

So, we decide on a medication for during the day. Supposed to even out my moods and help me feel "stable". Yeah, that'll be a first! He's asking all these questions, are you emotional, do you cry easily, how's your temper, do you snap at people. Well, yeah, yeah to all of them. But I've been like that since birth - I have pretty much an iron will and control much of those reactions. So...do we talk lately or in general? What's your point Doc?

We wanted to get me on something as quickly as possible. I've got to be at our new plant all next week with my "team" and if we don't do something pretty snappy I'll either implode or explode - neither of which would be good. Personally I'd really like to explode, but I need this job right now so I have to play nice with the other kids.

The other med I got is to help me sleep. I am very excited about that. More than you could realize. To get more than 2 or 3 hours sleep - heaven. I know how important sleep is. I teach on it all the time. And it's been a long time since I've had it.

The funniest part of the appointment was when he asked me if I smoke. Yeah. How much? 2 1/2 - 3 packs a day. WHAT?!?! Yeah - I'm a bit upset right now and I've got a lot of windshield time. I want to cut back, but it's not working so well. OK....do you drink coffee? Yeah. How much? A pot a day. Oh, you drink about 8 cups of coffee during a day? NO - I drink a 12 cup pot in the morning before I leave, get a large to go at the gas station then have 2 - 3 32oz Diet Cokes during the day, with a 32oz Mt. Dew in the afternoon if I need a pick me up.

After he picked himself up off the floor he told me I need to cut back on the caffine. I looked at him as if he were the brother to the damn snake STILL LIVING IN MY GARAGE!! Cut back? Why? Note to self: do not ask a question like that if you are in a hurry and need to meet a deadline. Answer will continue for approx 30 mins.

So....bottom line. I have to take these meds and hope they help next week. I'm back to buying cigs by the pack to control the amount I smoke and somehow I have to stop myself from drinking the whole pot in the morning. (I'll figure out how to make a partial. I always thought that was a waste). Oh - and no more Mt. Dew (I had to choose between that and the Diet. Coke).

Should be interesting. I'll keep you posted.

A Spot of Humor

Noble Eagle saves the day!!!

Just when I needed to laugh the most - he delivers.

Good round up of funny stuff. But I'm jumping in here and linking directly to this. Political Bohemian Rhapsody. DRINK ALERT!!

Go, laugh. Thanks NE! You Rock.

Just an Old Fashioned Girl

I've got an early morning meeting but just couldn't NOT comment on this.

Dashing through the living room I hear ABC Good Morning America (don't know how THAT got on) talking about a SEX SURVEY and the surprising results. Yeah Yeah Yeah.

But then as I'm in the showering and the brain cells kick in I start thinking....and then I came and pulled it up to read.

It was a phone survey conducted by female interviewers.
It tells me I'm gonna be surprised by the results.
84% surveyed that are in committed relationships have been faithful.
33% of singles are having sex 1x a week or more.
12% have had sex in the workplace.

Surprised? No. (well except that 33% of singles are having sex that often)

But I just gotta say, some woman calls me up and tells me they are conducting a national sex survey and I'm hanging up. Immediately.

I joke about sex alot. I have a very earthy sense of humor. BUT....to me it is the most private of things. Really. That's one reason I don't date a lot. It's never (ok maybe that one time) been a casual thing. I'm very very traditional like that. And I don't really let my sense of humor show until I know people pretty well, as I don't want them to get the wrong idea.

My ex talked/lied about it all the time. I used to just cringe when he would discuss things that happened with his buddies in front of me and/or his kids. Now, I know most people don't do that - but DAMN I hate that.

Sex has always been a gift. A gift that I give that is the most personal thing I have. And while I do enjoy it....you can bet on that.......I've just never been one that can just kiss and walk away.

The biggest suprise for me? That they got 1,501 adults to talk about it. I must be more old fashioned than I thought.

Why?

Hmmmmm according to the Cincinnati.com the Enquirer, Thousands of New Voter Registration Cards have been returned. Seems they can't be delivered. The registered parties can't. be. found. That's kinda interesting, don'tcha think.

Here's the scoop: (emp. mine)

He (Ohio Republican Party Chairman Robert Bennett)said many were submitted by groups he terms "auxiliaries of the Democratic Party": the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now (ACORN) and America Coming Together.

The groups paid people to register voters. Some registrations were filled out for dead people, some contained fake addresses, and others named fiction characters such as Dick Tracy and Mary Poppins.

Oh wait - then there's this: (emp. mine)

Tim Burke, chairman of the Hamilton County Democratic Party and the county elections board, said an updated number of cards returned is 5,808 out of 150,000 mailed not only to new voters, but also to those changing addresses, for a return rate of less than 4 percent.

Burke said fraud makes up a small percentage of the hundreds of thousands of newly registered voters in Ohio.

Honestly - 4% is not acceptable. If I had a return rate of 4% I'd be out of business. 4% when the election is this close.....not so good. That's 4% of the new voters or voters that requested a change of address are fraudulent. Fake. ILLEGAL.

4% no big deal to you? Think this is just making a mountain out of a mole hill? Then read this: (emp. mine)

As further evidence of registration fraud, Bennett said the Ohio Republican Party sent out its own letters to newly registered Ohio voters, encouraging them to vote Republican.

In the counties where new registration was highest, 3 percent to 9 percent of the letters were returned because the people were not located.

Really, just go read it yourself, I could just keep bringing it over here, but I want you to read the whole thing. It's important. It's bull shit. But it's important.

UPDATED:

Just to show you that I hate cheats and liars no matter what their political leanings here's a story from the Pittsburg Post-Gazette.com. Now you could say they didn't really cheat, per say. You could also say they didn't lie - technically. Still..........(again, emp. mine)

An ostensibly nonpartisan voter registration drive in Western Pennsylvania has triggered accusations that workers were cheated out of wages and given instructions to avoid adding anyone to the voter rolls who might support the Democratic presidential nominee.

"We were told that if they wanted to register Democrat, there was no way we were to register them to vote," said Michele Tharp, of Meadville, who said she was sent out to canvass door-to-door and outside businesses in Meadville, Crawford County. "We were only to register Republicans."

And they provided a copy of the instructions and script they were told to follow.

Oh, and catch this: (emp. mine)

The firm attracted attention in Pittsburgh last month when Sproul employees called a Carnegie Library official to request space outside the buildings to register voters.

Hughes said a patron came in the library Sept. 7 "and said 'There's this person out there asking me who I was voting for.' "But McCullough said she also became concerned because she discovered that Sproul was not working for America Votes, and that the registration drive was being organized by the Republican Party.

Not right. Nope. Not right at all.

DAMNIT! Will SOMEONE PLEASE take the high road?!?! PLEASE!!!

Taking a Short Stroll

Very busy this morning. So.....I thought I'd just link to somethings I thought you might find interesting.

Venomous Kate is letting her readers choose her blogroll! She only lets you nominate 3 - damn, I would have just copied them all over, but thats just me.

Lex tells us a story about working hard to be somewhere you DON'T want to be.

Michele shares a letter from some soldiers. It's beautiful. And to me, it's no surprise that she has touched this men and women so perfectly. She's a heck of a lady.

Alex asks "Am I wrong for wanting the world to be a safer place and for my kids to grow up not experiencing what we have had to?" It's a good piece. It'll make you think.

Those are just a few posts I wanted to make sure you didn't miss.

Sad, Just Sad

As I was drifting off to sleep last night I heard them talking on the news about the 10,000 volunteer lawyers that the DNC has already hired and lined up to file suits anywhere they precieve voter fraud, especially focused on the battleground states.

Thank about that folks.

10,000 lawyers.

10,000 lawyers.

They are planning on filing suits whether the vote is close or not. I gotta tell you, I take that as a bit of a threat. You remember the bully from the school playground? Do it my way or else! That's kind of how that comes across to me.

Sore losers. And the election is still 13 days away.

I think it's rather pathetic and desperate. But that's just me.

Tommy Franks on Tora Bora

Kat points us to an OpEd written by Tommy Franks in todays New York Times.

He addresses the often made comments by Kerry and his Krew regarding Tora Bora and many other half truths/lies about the GWoT.

Here's a teaser:

On more than one occasion, Senator Kerry has referred to the fight at Tora Bora in Afghanistan during late 2001 as a missed opportunity for America. He claims that our forces had Osama bin Laden cornered and allowed him to escape. How did it happen? According to Mr. Kerry, we "outsourced" the job to Afghan warlords. As commander of the allied forces in the Middle East, I was responsible for the operation at Tora Bora, and I can tell you that the senator's understanding of events doesn't square with reality.

I much prefer my information from the source, and you don't get a better source than Tommy Franks regarding the GWoT.

A Bit of Both

Shamelessly stolen from Dana

I am a hybrid of: Career Girl Progressive Girl Click on the pictures below to read more: Take the 'What Kind of Girl Are You?' quiz at CookingToHookup.com

I can tell you that I don't start ANY conversation with..."My financial advisor (or broker) says..." and I don't know a damn thing about my "company's stock valuation". But also you'll never hear me say ""Susan Sarandon says..." (at least not with a straight face) and I've never been a "post-Christian spiritualist, a pre-Monica Clintonite, and a dues-paying member of at least one social-change organization like NOW, Planned Parenthood, or the Sierra Club". Not that there's anything wrong with it, it's just not me.

THIS is truer than you know - "She can talk for more than ten minutes about: just about anything" as is "She owns any of the following: the latest and fanciest cell phone with a headset, a laptop, a Franklin Covey planner (with the convenient inner pocket for a PDA)." - Guilty as charged.

So all in all - pretty accurate. Perfect? Nope, but then neither am I!

What about you?

This is The Worst I've Ever Done

Usually I do really well in Fantasy Football.

This year, not so much.

Last night was tough for me. I was up against my Blogbro T1G. He beat me head to head a couple of weeks ago, but I've doing doing pretty well on overall points.

He has Tampa Bay as his defense. I asked him to set them aside for this week out of deference to my torn loyalties. **Wide eyed, fast blink, sweet smile** He refused. Damn.

I'm second in overall points, behind Blood Spite but my W/L ratio is every bit as bad as the Bucs.....hey, maybe that's it. Maybe I'm just so intuned with my boys we're pulling each other down.......Yeah, that's it. If I do better in Fantasy my boys will do better in real life.

But then again, maybe that's why they call it Fantasy.

Pretty Boy

This video is hysterical.

John Edwards spends more time on his hair than I do mine!!!

And....he has a compact!!! OMG!

hat tip: Florida Gator

Subtle Differences

I mentioned a couple of times that I spent some time in Costa Rica while in college. It was required to graduate. Each student was given a choice of countries and timing. We could choose from CR, Haiti, Honduras, Belize, Germany (for a bit extra money) and China (for a lot of extra money).

The purpose was to help us understand how it feels to be a stranger in a strange land. How important it is to step outside our comfortable lives and learn new things. Also - being a Christian College hell-bent on missionary service, it really hammered that concept home at the same time.

I choose Costa Rica. I didn't really think Germany needed my help, China held no interest for me at the time. Haiti was (and is) in really bad shape. I was young (19) and, to be honest, didn't want to work that hard. Honduras and Belize were "hot spots" with plenty of military action and I wasn't in the mood to be shot at. Plus - CR had McDonalds and Pizza Hut. Yeah, I was a typical 19 year old.

When we got there the first four weeks were all about learning the language and the culture. I had taken Spanish in school for 8 years so that was easy. There are just so many nuances. For example, Mamacita in schoolroom Spanish is Little Mother. In CR - little whore. Yeah, I learned that one the hard way.

But visiting the landmarks, taking part in the celebrations really helped me to understand a bit of the culture we were living in. That's important. It's polite and it makes us better people.

We were all assigned families to live with. My family was rather small. I had a sister that was at University and another that was married. Her son Carlos was over all the time. Damn, I loved that kid. He rocked. My mother was from Nicaragua and simply the sweetest woman I've ever known. My father worked for Dole in the fruit plant. (never really did get what his job was.) They welcomed me with open arms and made me feel like a part of the family right from the start.

After the first four weeks everyone was assigned a job and spread out throughout the country. I stayed right where I was. Everyone else was teaching English in local school. Honest to goodness - our leader told me they were worried that because I curse so much, that's what I would teach my students. (Remember very religious school) so I was assigned to work at a clinic for malnourished children, and stay in the San Jose area.

The stories from the clinic deserve a post of their own, so I'll write those in the near future. What really hits me today is how important understanding the culture and people were in really experiencing the best of Costa Rica.

I remember standing in line at McDonalds. This guy was in front of me just yelling at the girl behind the counter who was trying to take his order. His Spanish was so bad even I had trouble understanding him. So I spoke up and offered to help him order. He spent way too much time bitching about how they should speak English and how hard it was to get around down there. I got his order, turned to the girl and apologized for him. Then placed his order. He was rude, crude and socially unacceptable. Unfortunately there were a lot of people down there like that.

I made some mistakes of my own. Like calling my mother a little whore. Yeah, I still cringe over that one.

Then there was the time I had to go to the local grocery store to buy tampons. I was first struck by the fact that I couldn't buy cereal! I really wanted some cereal. After wandering around the store muttering I picked up a box of tampons and went to check out. I put it down on the counter and you could hear a pin drop. Everyone was staring. When I got home my mother was on the phone almost in tears. Trying to explain something to someone. I went in my room to put away my stuff and she came in and asked if we could talk. It seems I brought embarrassment on to my family. Only hookers used tampons. I bought them at the store down the street from her church and some one had called to warn her that the Priest would be paying a visit asking me not to attend mass anymore. YIKES. I'm not Catholic, but I knew the college wasn't going to be real pleased with me offending the local church.

It all worked out, because I claimed ignorance and begged forgiveness.

But it was because we just don't know the subtle differences between cultures. And unfortunately many people don't care. They figure I am who I am and either deal with it or don't. I agree with that to some extent, but I also believe when visiting someplace, different country, town, or family, we owe it to them to show respect for their life style, their traditions. By doing that, only good things can happen. We share ideas and grow.

And I have used those lessons learned often. When working at the steel plant I was responsible for the new arrivals from Japan. I would meet the family at the airport, take them to lunch, to the bank and such and then to their new homes. Then I'd take the women to the grocery store and other little jaunts to get what they needed to make things more "homey" for them. Most had never been to the states. I understood the confusion, the fear. I worked with the children, playing games and introducing them to others that were in close to the same situation. I arranged parties and festivals to help everyone start to acclimate.

It made a difference. It made the temporary transition that much easier. It's hard being a stranger in a strange land. Whether you're going from the US to a third world country or going from Chicago to Birmingham. There are still differences, and they need to be respected.

It is a small world, but still so very different. I don't know, maybe I'm just weird but I want to understand those differences. However subtle.

One Word

Tim - Stickum.

Dude, dude, dude. You know I've been a loyal supporter for you for a long time now. When you were in South Bend, playing for my Irish - I was your biggest fan. I've always believed in you. I'll admit to some surprise when they brought you to Tampa. I was happy on a personal level - it was like having a long lost friend move into the neighborhood. But I'll admit to wondering why. Let's face it, we aren't so young anymore. And this is a young man's game.

Tim, you dropped the ball. You. Dropped. The. Ball.

Shit.

In case you didn't know - yeah the Buc's lost last night. I'm exhausted. Damn. But, it was a really good game. Really good. Damn. We lost.

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL!!!!!!!!!!!

Bucs vs. Rams on Monday Night Football.

It's always a good game. It's always good T.V.

Let's see if we can make it 2 in a row!!

My Top 5

Harvey has a post of his top five No Questions Asked, No Problems Later women.

Here is the list of the guys that I wouldn't turn down. Nope, not at all.

Cary Grant - THIS Cary Grant

Tom Selleck - Yes I have a thing for cowboys!

Dennis Quaid - just Damn!!! And he's musical too!!!

John Lynch - there's a surprise!

Toby Keith - but especially singing You Shouldn't Kiss Me Like This....to me! (hey a fantasy is a fantasy!!) Scroll down for the video - it's great!!

The Response is, Well, Interesting

Most of us heard and read about the piece in The Guardian suggesting that it's British readers contact voters listed as undecided in Clark County OH and offer their suggestions on how to vote. Well, the Guardian is posting some of the responses it has received.

These fall into three categories for me.

I was surprised to see so many from the US that actually supported the idea. I know, I'm just so innocent sometimes. But really - I thought even the liberals would want to keep this a "family affair". Oops - there I go thinking again. Here's a response that pretty much captures what most in that category had to say:

I am a registered voter in Clark County, Ohio, and am very much interested in hearing what our overseas friends have to say about our election. You are correct in assuming that this election in the US is the most important election in memory. The threat of terrorism is a very real threat, not just in our country, but all over the world. In this day and age there must be worldwide unity against these fanatical groups who just hate. Not just Americans, but all western civilisation.
United States

What scared me the most with this one? The author is from Clark County!!!! I'm speechless.

Then there were the responses requesting that the Guardian, well, butt out.

I suggest that if a particular reader of the Guardian would like to vote in America - would really like to influence the American election, say - that reader should move to America, become a citizen of the United States. Everyone is welcome here. Even the readers of the Guardian. But if you don't wish to be an American, to live in Ohio, for instance, and participate in the American political process, that is too bad. Perhaps there is something wrong with you. Perhaps it is your teeth.
New York

(and this was about the nicest one posted)

Now....I have to believe that there were some reasonable and rational responses received, but those seem to be missing from this story. The Guardian is allowed to publish any collection of them that it chooses to. I would have liked to think it would have been open enough to post a clear cross representation, but being as it is a Liberal paper I'm not surprised.

But I would have liked to have seen some response that were devoid of insults and stereotypes.

Here is my letter to the Guardian. I'm sure it won't ever see the light of day, anywhere but here, but still - it's out there now.

I am an American citizen that is deeply offended by your post suggesting that your Non-American readers should have some influence on our Presidential elections. No, I don't think you should.

I'm sorry that you did this. In my mind it was a waste of paper, bandwidth and time.

It's Respect and Promise

This post over at Bou's got me thinking. She talks about how much she loves her wedding band. And she mentions what she had wanted as an engagement ring and how she still loves what she has - because it's what her Husband wanted to give to her. I think that is very cool. That's how it's supposed to be (in my mind).

Took me back a few years. My ex and I were not what you would consider wealthy. And back in the beginning we didn't even hit middle class on most days. So when we decided to get married, it was a simple fare to say the least. No frills at all.

He had insisted that I quit modeling and stay home with the kids. So money was very tight and I was bored as hell. I started entering sweepstakes just to fill the hours when the kids were in school. Well guess what!! I won!! I won a "perfect" 1ct. CZ stone. Yes I did - and for $9 they would insure it when shipping. So I sent off my $9 and got my free perfect stone. My sister was selling jewlery at the time, so she had it set for me. Just a simple solitare and I wore it on the right hand. I love jewlery and especially rings, but didn't have any. I was tickled pink.

Fast forward to the week before the wedding. Hubby says to me that he can't afford an engagment ring so just switch the CZ to the left hand. No big deal.

Except that for every year of our marraige I had to hear about the 4 diamond rings he bought his ex wife, how much she enjoyed them, how much she "appreciated" him getting them for her. Over the years we pulled ourselves out of the economic hole we were in and ended up living pretty high on the hog. But still - never got that ring.

I never asked for a diamond. I never asked for a ring. But I would have liked one. To me, it would have been a symbol of his desire and respect for me.

To this day I still look at womens engagment rings. I don't care if they're flashy or subtle. (unless you're my friend and I can give you a good loving ribbing!) Yeah, there's a bit of envy. There's a bit of curiosity. I wonder what it's like to have someone think and care enough to go out and pick a ring that will mean that much.

When I got divorced I took off the rings. The very day it was final. They are in a chest in my wall unit. Every once in a while I take out that CZ and put it on. And remember again just why I am divorced. It's about respect.

Gettin' My Redneck On

My Mom stopped reading this site back in June. She doesn't approve of my language. Thinks it makes me sound ignorant. I told her, I write almost exactly how I talk, except I don't curse as much. (BTW - that didn't go over so well.)

As you know if you've been reading this for the last while, I grew up in a very small town in Northern Indiana. This town is made up mostly of transplanted Kentuckians from when many of the coal mines closed down. They went up there to work in the trailer factories. While I spent much of my youth in music lessons, dance class and with my nose in a book - I did socialize a bit. I learned to defend myself in a fight (and yes I fight dirty) I learned how to hold my liquor. I learned that it's just fine to get dirty, especially if it's due to lot's of hard work or hard play.

Yeah, I'm a bit rough around the edges. But......you can still clean me up and take me out, I do just fine in "proper society", well - most of the time.

Sometimes I've just got to let it out. You know, sometimes you just gotta say something that you know isn't the polite thing. Yeah, that's me.

The Open Letter to Tourists is what happened to me the other night when I went to the grocery store to pick up dinner. What I left out was my response to the person in front of me demanding not to pay sales tax. We kinda bickered back and forth and I shot out with...

"You know, when President Bush was here to observe the damage from the hurricanes, if he stopped to buy something he had to pay sales tax. While you may be a visitor, you really aren't anything special, and you sure aren't as special as the President of the United States, so shut up and pay the tax or leave."

In my defense I had already dealt with many moonbats just geting to the checkout line, and I was very hungry.

Not nice? No, not really. Necessary. No, not at all. Did it feel good? Yeah. Yeah it did.

So, Sunday morning I'm doing yet another sales training course. This group started out a bit rough. Couldn't even get them to smile, let alone laugh. So finally I finish my presentaton and sit down on one of the beds and ask if they have any questions.

One gentleman, that had been just short of heckeling me, asks me what the density is of my mattresses.

What? Did you ask what the DENSITY is of the mattresses?

Yeah - how dense are they?

Well, they aren't the smartest beds on the floor but they certainly aren't dumb.

Nothing. Not a snicker.

I looked at him and said sorry, guess my humor doesn't translate well to the spoken word. Then I went on to tell him I didn't know and it wasn't something I would be likely to know as it didn't aid the sleep process at all. We eventually called a truce, and the morning ended up a roaring success.

But damn, sometimes I just can't hold back the smart ass remarks. It's just too tempting.

Funny Email

Thanks Oh Godfather!!! (I couldn't resist sharing this one)

Funny cowboy story

A cowboy was holding his herd in a remote pasture when suddenly a brand-new BMW advanced out of a dust cloud towards him.

The driver, a young man in a Brioni suit, Gucci shoes, Ray Ban sunglasses, YSL tie, leans out the window and asks the cowboy, "If I tell you exactly how many cows and calves you have in your herd, will you give me a calf?"

The cowboy looks at the man, obviously a yuppie, then looks at his peacefully grazing herd and calmly answers, "Sure. Why not?"

The yuppie parks his car, whips out his Dell notebook computer, connects it to his AT&T cell phone, surfs to a NASA page on the Internet, where he calls up a GPS satellite navigation system to get an exact fix on his location which he then feeds to another NASA satellite that scans the area in an ultra-high-resolution photo. The young man then opens the digital photo in Adobe Photoshop and exports it to an image processing facility in Hamburg, Germany.

Within seconds, he receives an email on his Palm Pilot that the image has been processed and the data stored. He then accesses a MS-SQL database through an ODBC connected Excel spreadsheet with hundreds of complex formula. He uploads all of this data via an email on his Blackberry and, after a few minutes, receives a response.

Finally, he prints out a full-color, 150-page report on his hi-tech, miniaturized HP LaserJet printer and finally turns to the cowboy and says, "You have exactly 1586 cows and calves."

"That's right. Well, I guess you can take one of my calves," says the cowboy.

He watches the young man select one of the animals and looks on amused as the young man stuffs it into the trunk of his car.

Then the cowboy says to the young man, "Hey, if I can tell you exactly what your business is, will you give me back my calf?"

The young man thinks about it for a second and then says, "Okay, why not?"

"You're a consultant for the Democratic party," says the cowboy.

"Wow! That's correct," says the yuppie, "but how did you guess that?"

"No guessing required." answered the cowboy. "You showed up here even though nobody called you; you want to get paid for an answer I already knew, to a question I never asked; and you don't know anything about my business...

.....Now give me back my dog

Carnival of the Jammies

OK - I must be sleep deprived. All I can think of is jammies today. I mentioned in my Saturday Question of the Day that I had a favorite pair of jammies. Acutally, I have to be honest - I had the same jammies (or a version of them) for 8 years.

Here I am in what had to be the most comfortable outift I have ever owned.

Here I am just getting up in the morning......."Mama? Where's that coffee??

This is my cousin and I, and yes our mothers dressed us alike. I still hate even wearing the same color as someone else!! But...aren't we cute???

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:

In honor of Carnival of the Jammies I thought about what my favorite pair of jammies were as a kid.

That was almost too easy. The were black leggings with a really cool animal print top. They were the bomb. Mom could hardly get me out of them. I wanted to wear them everywhere. One day we were at the local department store and I saw a lady wearing something very similar with a very cool pair of black sandles and I was livid. "Mommy - why does SHE get to wear her PJ's out in public and I can't?" Yeah, I never really did get that whole idea that some times you just CAN'T say exactly what's on your mind.

So.....what were your favorite jammies like as a child?

When I Grow Up

Reading this post over at Laughing Wolf's made me realize just how much thought I've put into this very subject. A Lot. It's been something that's on my mind since I got "offically" laid-off at Tropicana. And it's funny because what I thought I wanted, is not what I wanted after all.

I've always loved people. I've always loved solving problems. I won't even try to explain my intesne obsession with data. Suffice to say, it's something I really enjoy. I hate to be tied at a desk all day everyday, and I hate being micro-managed. I need to be challeneged and what ever I do has to be competitive.

Try and turn that mess into - what I want to be when I grow up! Ain't easy.

At first glance I have exactly the job I described above. On No. Not good, not good at all. Now what do I do?!?! How do I know if a job I'm considering will give me the satisfaction I need?

For a while I was contracting with a company that sold Personality Profiles to employers to help in hiring true sales people. This test was fantastic, but I thought it wasn't doing all it could do. My suggestion was that all employees should take it and management should use it as a tool to help in coaching and counciling the EE to grow their career. It made perfect sense to me, the employee would then be happy and productive making the employer just as happy and very profitable.

The company loved the idea and I became the National Trainer talking with our clients on how to impliment that and helping them understand how beneficial such a program would be for their company.

As I said, it was a contract position, and as often happens, management changed and they didn't agree with that vision for our company. So I left.

But that principle stayed with me. And I finally applied it to myself. I stopped thinking of myself as strictly a sales person. I listed all the activites I've done (career wise) and put out what I loved/hated/or didn't care about. Hmmm very interesting. Very interesting indeed.

I discovered I love major accounts. I love being able to focus on one company and build their business. I need to be needed. To feel that I make a difference.

I hate cold calling. I hate working in the field all the time. I hate depending on phone and email for contact.

I love to teach. I love sharing my passion for business. There is nothing as rewarding (business wise) as watching someone develop their potential and achieve goals they never dreamed they could reach.

So....I'm gonna win the Florida Lottery tonite. Then I'm going to quit my job and become a motivational speaker and corporate trainer. Yep - thats' my dream job.

Carnival of Recipes

WOW - this weeks Carnival of Recipes ROCKS!!!

Head on over to Beth's place (SWWBO) and prepare to drool.

We got pumpkin bread, pork chops, drinks, cakes, brownies, chicken.....damn, gotta get to the grocery store and stock up.

Thanks Beth!!! This carnival is always so fun.

A Tough Weekend...

football wise that is.

Let's start with Saturday's big game for me. Notre Dame vs Navy.

Normally I'd just roll my eyes and shrug. Nice excuse to drink a little beer, eat some pizza and yell about how great my Irish are.

This year, it's a little bit different. Damn - the Navy is 5-0. They got game. We are 4-2. We're struggling a bit. Advantage? We playing in Notre Dame IN - and those damn Irish Hoosiers can raise a ruckus, trust me.

But this will be a nail biter for me. I've got a lot of Navy Friends That I Really Want to Trash Talk, but this is the first time I'm afraid my team won't put their money where my mouth is. (or something like that). There is one person who will be cheering like me!

So.......in preperation for tomorrows game I've taken the following steps:

1) bought a candle at the grocery store - has a Saint on it - I'm not catholic, but I figure it can't hurt.

2) Dug out my favorite ND sweatshirt to wear on the drive to St. Pete and during the game. (still waiting for a new hat)

3) purchased a toy boat at dollar general so that I can sink it in the bathtub during an approriate section of the game.

4) packed my Navy hat away in the back of the closet - just for this weekend. I'll bring it back out to play with the others on Sunday.

I think that covers it. The Buc's don't play until Monday night so it's ok if I lose my voice on Saturday.

GO IRISH!!

341st Military Police Company

I found this video via Chrome Dome Zone.

It's from the 341st Military Police Company 1st Platoon.

It's what they are seeing and doing every day in Iraq. If you haven't seen it - you need to. (It takes a while to load, but believe me - it's more than worth it).

I mentioned it before, but if you are looking for positive word out of Iraq head over there to Chrome Dome Zone. You'll find it.

Quick and Easy Dinner

It's Carnival of the Recipes time. I know of a few really good ones that will be posted this week. You've got a few hours, so hurry up and get those entry's in. Either email the link (if you have a blog) or the entire recipe to Beth (our hostess with the mostess this week) at recipe(dot)carnival(at)gmail(dot)com.

My entry this week is for a quick and easy down home Italian dinner.

Beef with Tomatoes
(Serves 4 people)

Ingredients:

1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves of garlic - chopped
4-6 (approx 2 lbs) sliced beef (I prefer sirloin, but rump roast works) cut 1/4" thick.
2 lbs fresh tomatoes or 2 cans (16oz each) of crushed tomatoes
2 tsp dried oregano
salt and fresh ground pepper
1 lb spaghetti
Grated Parmaesan or Romano cheese (optional)

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and saute 2-3 mins until soft. Add beef and brown each side (approx. 2 mins each side). Remove and set aside.

Add tomatoes, oregano, salt and pepper to taste to the skillet and simmer, uncovered, approx 15 mins (until tomatoes are soft). Return beef slices to the pan and cook until meat is done to your liking: 5 mins for medium, 10 for well done.

Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, cook spaghetti per instructions on box. Serve the spaghetti dressed with the tomatoe sauce as a side dish for beef. Add Parmesan or Romano cheese if desired.

Seriously easy to do and a great meal!! I serve with cheesy garlic bread and a salad. Yummy. A little flan or fresh fruit for dessert and it's perfect for those down and dirty dinners in a rush.

Open Letter to Tourists

While we here in Florida appreciate the fact that you visit and spend your money (saving us from having to pay state taxes) there are a few things that I feel need to be brought to your attention.

1) Please remember that you are guests. We Live Here. Pushing your way past us in the grocery line will only get you hurt. Seriously.

2) When dressing it is important to actually look at yourself in the mirror. Now don't misunderstand me, I'm all about comfort. Hell I'm the queen of denim shorts little tops and baseball hats. HOWEVER, please refrain from wearing black silk running short (with the bottom half of your ass cheeks hanging out) and crop tops (with entire stomach and bottom portion of boobs hanging over) out in public. It's not pretty. Not pretty at all. Especially when you are roughly the color of milk. And past the age of 12 it just isn't cool to wear the bright pink baseball cap to the side. At 40 it's just sad.

3) When driving, please obey the signs. Stop really does mean Stop. Those little arrows in the throughways of the parking lots? Yeah, they actually stand for something. Just ask Jewlery Man. It's a sure fire way to meet people, I just don't think it'll be the pleasant experience you were looking for during vacation.

4) Sales tax is sales tax. Everyone pays. (well except for that month for back to school.) Yelling at the sales clerk will not get you out of it. You may be a guest, but you are not that special. Causing a scene and holding others up in line is not the way to make friends and influence people. (again I reference Jewlery Man.)

5) Just because you will be leaving at some point does not give you the right to deface or trash your surroundings. Please don't dump all the trash out of your mini-van into the Publix parking lot. That's not nice. Please don't stand in the middle of the throughofare and then yell at people that are trying to drive by. Please use the brain that God gave you and keep your children safely away from traffic so that a certain resident doesn't have to slam on her brakes (only going 5 mph) and swerve into said garbage left in parking lot to avoid hitting your child while you stand there trying to decide between Disney and Universal Studios!!!!!!!

So, overall I hope your time with us is pleasant. Enjoy yourself, soak up some sun, visit the sights. Just remember - we natives aren't necessarily as nice as the commercials say we are.

Thank you.

Breaking News - UPDATED!!

I'm sitting here typing and hear on FOX news that some robbery suspects, while running from police, had entered an elementary school somewhere in Florida. I missed the exact location, and am looking for more information right now.

I just started crying. The police have entered the building. Some students and adults have been seen leaving but there are still people in there. The police are wearing body armour and helmets, they have the dogs. They are doing a room by room search. Those children are in there. Can you imagine the fear they are feeling right now? Can you just imagine what is running those those sweet innocent little minds?

I'll post additional information as I can find it. This breaks my heart. I hate (not nearly a strong enough word) to hear of children being put in these types of situations. I hate the fact that some stupid assholes are hiding behind CHILDREN to avoid paying for the crime they have been caught doing.

My secret wish? That they isolate these morons in some dark corner of the boiler room - one of them is stupid enough to draw a gun on the police and are eliminated from this earth. Yeah - right now that's the best case scenerio I can think of.

Again I say - DO NOT F*UCK WITH THE BABIES.

UPDATED: 12:17pm 10/14/04

The town was Opa Locka Florida. All children were removed safely and all 3 suspects were arrested. Thank goodness - a decent ending to this story.

I only hope they really go after these guys, not just for the inital crime but for putting the lives of those children in danger. Assholes.

Did I ever tell you about the time....

I almost got my head chopped off in Costa Rica?

No? Well it's actually a pretty funny story - now.

I was there as a requirement of the college I attended. We all had to spend a semester in a foreign country working as a missionary. Ok - stop laughing now. I chose Costa Rica for several reasons and will never regret that decision.

There was a group of 12 of us. The first 4 weeks we spent living with families in or around San Jose and attending classes, taking tours and basically learning to culture so we wouldn't make complete asses of ourselves when scattered to the four corners of the country.

The last of those 4 weeks we got to visit the beach cottage the college owned in Limon. It was as base as can be. No electric, no running water but only about 20' from the most beautiful black beach I've ever seen. But wait, I'm getting ahead of myself.

We took the train to Limon. Now the trains in Costa Rica were a blast from the past. I swear it was straight off of an old John Wayne western. Wooden bench type seats and the bathroom...well, the toliet consisted of a metal barrel cut into thirds and positioned over an open hole looking down at the track. Talk about stage fright!!!!

So anyway - we're on this train going through the mountains and seeing some of the most beautiful scenary I've ever seen. Winding up, up, up until all of a sudden we jerked, swayed, skittered and stopped. WTF?!?!?

Our leader (and he was fearless with this crew) went to find out what happened. Well shit. It seems the train derailed. Hmmm...in the middle of the mountains, in the middle of the jungle. The only help was the train coming from Limon and we'd have to change trains when it got there.

So we waited. And we waited. A group of American students gawking and laughing and basically getting on the last nerve of every Tico on that train.

Finally 5 hours later - after the sun had set the other train arrives. That's when we realized we had to actually get off the train, walk through the mud to board the other train. Mud folks. Mud that I sunk into mid calf. Jungle. Critters. Dark. Yeah - my imagination went wild.

But we did it. However, we got split up on the new train. Most everyone was able to get seats together at the front of the car. However, I got pushed to the back of the train, alone. Oh - there was some guy from Alaska that was sitting next to me. We struck up a converstation. He was meeting up with a group of his friends in Limon and they were spending some time on the beach. Cool. That's when he asked if I wanted to join them - clothes optional. Uhhh, no. Thanks, but no. Did I mention he was a left over hippy from the age of flower power. Yeah - even then I was a hippy hater.

So the converstation ends and I'm sitting there in the dark just looking around. All of a sudden I hear this Swoosh Swoosh from behind me. WTF? I look around, but it's pretty dark so I didn't really notice anything. Swoosh Swoosh there it was again.

I turn around and there was this man swinging a machette about 1" from my head - ok, it seemed like 1". DAMN!! He looks down at me, keeps swinging that machette and starts chanting....We Hate Americans Go Home Americans swoosh swoosh.

Can you say panic attack? Yeah. I'll admit - I freaked. Hell, I'd been on a train for over 12 hours, on wooden bench seats, squatted over an open barrel and shit on a train track, walked through mud that was determined to suck me in and dodged God only knows what kind of critters, invited to a Hippy Love in - Now This.

I turn around and hollered at my cousin. (he was part of our group). He had been raised in Brazil and I had learned just enough Portuguese to tell him to get the f*ck over here and switch seats with me. My hero, he did and the guy backed off.

But damn.......scared the shit out of me!!! I determined right then and there that I was going to learn Spanish well enough that no one mistook me for a tourist again. Yeah - how many 6'2" Tico women do you see walking around! :-)

Today is.......

It's Thursday.

That was my first thought as I woke up this morning. Oh, there's nothing special about today - I was just pretty damned proud of myself that I knew what day of the week it was.

The past couple of weeks have been a blur of training classes and meetings. Not a lot of time to just go out and visit with my sales Reps. This morning I working on reports and then just going to cruise around town, visiting some stores I haven't been in for a while. No Pressure Today.

And it's important to schedule days like this. I am an adrenaline junky. I enoy the pressure of risk and competetion. But sometimes you just gotta relax a bit.

I wish I were able to go to the Blogtober fest in Helen this weekend. Damn, that sounds like such a good time. So many of my favorite bloggers all in one place. Sum Bitch. I can't wait to read the stories!! Instead I'll be conducting a training class on early. Then I'm heading to the west coast.

Yep - Saturday afternoon/eveing with my family and the Sunday Football with my friends in Bradenton. I haven't seen them since the 2nd hurricane and I think it's time. Plus, we know how to watch football.

I can already see it.....pans of sausage and peppers for sandwiches, pierogies served up (with a dollop of sour cream) beer, rum, yelling, cheering, cursing. Yeah - one of my favorite ways to spend a Sunday afternoon.

So yep, I'm pretty siked that it's Thursday. Today will be a bit slower paced, tomorrow should be mellow and then WHAM - I got a weekend.

Hot Damn! It's Thursday.

This is Just WRONG

BlogBro Jeff is on a roll of late.

Yesterday he posted a link to this cartoon.

I have the utmost respect for Dr. Rice. More than for most government officals today. This is horrible. Wrong. Degrading. Well, you see how I feel.

I just thought you should see it.

**UPDATE: Well, the cartoon is down now. However, My brilliant blogbro tells me he'll have the screen print of it. But at least you can see where it came from. I'll update the link when I get it. Thanks Jeff!!

**UPDATED AGAIN: Jeff has recovered the cartoon here. Good job Blogbro!!

I'm Starting to See A Pattern

So last Thursday I was preparing to go into a store for a bit of training. I was tired, lackluster, quite frankly just not up for it. On the drive over I picked up the cell phone and called my friend Bou. We talked a little about blogging, a bit about dating, families, and politics. I ended up sitting in the parking lot of the store for about 5 mins. laughing my ass off. When I got off the phone I went in and had one hell of a good time. It was a small class, but it was focused and fun. We laughed and just had a great exchange.

A few days before that I stayed over at Lee Ann's place and we just had a wonderful time. Got up the next morning and heading out to store visits in someone else's territory. Every store I went into was a solid hit. Great conversation, good business results and over all a very productive day.

Then on Tuesday of this week I was driving to the one store that gives me the roughest time. I just can't seem to do anything right with them. As I'm driving over there my cell phone rings. WooHoo, it's Teresa. We also had a great conversation. Again, I sat in the parking lot laughing and talking for a while. When I finally bit the bullet and went into the store it was a great meet and greet. I talked with the sales reps and the assistant manager and we really seemed to click. Someone asked me if by saying it was a good call that meant that they were nice to me. No, it means that they weren't mean to me and believe me That Is Huge. I walked out of there with a real feeling of accomplishment.

Yesterday I was in Daytona. I don't get there as often as I should and was preparing to go into a store that had every right to be a bit angry with me - they hadn't seen me in longer than is right. As I was pulling into the parking lot that beautiful cell phone of mine rang yet again, and it was my friend Bou. We had another delightful converstation and the following store visit was a HUGE SUCCESS.

Hmmm.....the analyst in me is starting to detect a pattern. :-) Maybe I need to modify my schedule to include strategic phone calls between difficult training and sales visit.

Thank you my friends!! You guys have been a real life line. Man, what a great bunch of Sista's I have!!!!

A Must Read

Blood Spite does it again.

Go Read This.

Think about it.

A Wonderful Story

It's the Hawks' Anniversary!!! Mrs. Grey Hawk shares with us the story of their romance. Thank you! It made me smile.

I love nothing better than a good romance. I'm one of those die-hard romantics that believes in "happily ever after", and "true love prevails". For me - THAT is what makes the world go round.

And I love that I see it so often in this blogsphere. I saw a post a Bou's about the little things, I see it at Harvey's in his daily Love Notes, I've seen it at Smash's, Blackfives, Hook's (whose archives with the story of a Military Ball, Anniversary's and love notes are gone) and so many others. It makes me smile. It gives me hope.

So....stop on over and wish the Grey Hawks' a very Happy Anniversary. Being apart is hard, being apart on a day like today is even harder.

Full Circle

I was reading Lex's post from last night and it really got me thinking.

I had a bit of a flashback.. Back to 1979/80 my senior year in High School. I remember sitting in the locker room after basketball practice and hearing one of the girls say she heard if Reagan won the election there was going to be a draft. And this time they would include women. Everyone froze. Girls started saying they'd just go to Canada, another girl said she'd just get pregnant and that way both she and her boyfriend would be safe.

I watched while everyone worked themselves into a lather. The draft had ended in '73 so it was still a raw subject. For some reason I didn't believe what the rumor said. It just didn't make sense to me. I knew, from watching the news and reading what was available at the time, that Reagan believed that a strong military was important. As I understood things it was an investment in our future. I knew he wanted to develop better weapons, and make life in the military better than what it was - to make it a better choice to join. But I hadn't heard anything about the draft coming back. I sat there, while everyone around me hissed and screached in anger and fear. It was like nothing I had ever seen. Panic was tangable in that locker room.

Back in those days I didn't have near the confidence that I have now. I ran with the very smartest in our class and just didn't feel that what ever I thought would add anything to the conversation, and I was afraid of being laughed at when I was being serious. But I just couldn't let this go. It just seemed too important. So I stood up and asked where they heard this. The girl that brought the subject up said her Dad mentioned it at the dinner table the night before. They were talking about how this was the first election most of us would be able to vote in and that it was very important to vote for the right person. He told her that Reagan wanted to go to war and that starting the draft was the only way. And her Dad would know, he was a professor at Notre Dame.

I stood there for a moment and thought about that. Then I just simply said "Your Dad's wrong" and walked away. They were yelling at me and telling me how stupid I was, what did I know anyway but I just kept walking. I didn't argue with them, I didn't have any facts or figures to throw in the face of the arguments - I just knew in my gut they were wrong.

Back then we didn't have email or the internet. We had the MSM and word of mouth. Rumors were more deadly then, harder to disprove. Looking back, it feels like a lifetime ago.

Now....back to the present. Again, we hear rumors about the "Republican war mongers" wanting to reinstate the draft. Of course we know that isn't true, and now - with the information age - we can fight that rumor more readily. But it still amazes me that 24 years later the same scare tactics are being used. Our children, those young impressionable minds, are being told that they will have no choice but to fight. And it is coming from those that they trust. Remember with me for just a moment. Think back to when you were 17/18. Remember how you were fighting for your own voice? Caught between child and grown-up. Wanting a say, but still forming those opinions? Not many teenagers really pay attention to politics, until it becomes a big issue - like a Presidential Election. Be honest, many adults don't pay attention. But then everyone is talking about it, everyone has an opinion. So we do to. Scary isn't it. I'd like to think that our government and our security is something that every American finds important enough to focus on regularly. But that's not the case.

The youth of this country are being made in to pawns. And it just makes me sick that some people are using that desire that is in them to contribute to the process, that need to have a say - and twisting it with fear. It's wrong, and it puts our children at risk. But it's not the first time it's happened, and I'm afraid it won't be the last. It's up to us - all of us - to talk with them, to encourage them to search out the FACTS and THEN make up their minds. They may not agree with us, and that's alright. What's important is that they make solid decisions based on facts and knowledge not fear and rumors.

I'm Just Wondering...

Is it just me or has anyone else noticed that things are looking (at least from what I'm seeing) a bit calmer in Iraq since the Afghan elections?

Hmmm....

This Explains It

I got this email from a friend. It explains so much...............

The Real Story
Rumor has it that Frances was married to Ivan but was having an affair with

Charley. Charley used her and left, and she went looking for him--mad as

heck. Charley swept through Florida quickly while Frances (a woman scorned)

followed close behind taking her time looking everywhere for him.

Ivan (vacationing in the Caribbean) finally got wind of what happened and is

now looking for his wife and Charley. Ivan has vengeance in his heart and

has the whole gulf coast running for the hills.

Actually Ivan was in the Caribbean with Jeanne and she is now "hot for him".

Which is surprising because she just broke her engagement with Karl who is

out looking for both Ivan and Jeanne. Karl's little sister, Lisa, is trying

to keep him out of trouble. Matthew is Lisa's boyfriend who follows her

anywhere.

And the rest of this story is....

( TO BE CONTINUED...)

This Makes Me Crazy

Teresa has a post up about some incidents that occured over the weekend. In several different areas, union protesters gathered and made their anti-Bush feelings known. You need to read the post - honestly - then I have a thing or two to say.

I grew up in a "Union" family. Both Daddy and Mama were very involved. In fact, up until a couple of years ago, Mama was still pretty active, as a rep and a local officer. My ex husband was in the IBEW for the entire time I was married to him. Yeah, I know a bit about unions - up close and personal.

I think their time is over. Done. They are now causing more problems than they solve. In the beginning - yes, they served a purpose. I truly believe that. I can't imagine what life would be like now without the improvements in hours, pay and safety that they brought forth. But......now I don't see the purpose.

I've never been a union supporter. Yeah, that made for interesting table talk when I was in high school. Even back then, I felt that most of what the union was focused on wasn't really benefiting the everyday worker. In school I would challenge the teacher that would paint such a rosey picture of all that unions do. Yes, higher wages are good - but are they good if they eventually drive a business away or even out? No, not in the long run. And if the union is so supportive of it's members why is it that every single time I've known anyone to ask for union support in a matter were they left high and dry? I never really got a good answer on either of those.

My ex husband was an ass. We've covered that pretty extensively. However, he was a hard worker. He loved being a lineman. It was who he was. And to be a lineman you had to be in the union. So he joined - at a very early age. He paid his dues, went to the meetings, he did the song and dance. And he was a damn good lineman. Really. Over time he bacame a crew leader. He ran the unground line crew for the county. (Don't Bring Up That Damn Song) Crew leaders did NOT drive the line trucks. Ever. You are required to have a certain number of men (sorry, people) on the crew and the leader used the drive time to plan. So....asshole got his 7th DUI in 5 years and lost his DL for 10 years. Well, shit. We didn't make a big deal of it, We just had to schedule things so that I could drive him around. (I didn't make a deal of it cause I was embarrassed as hell).

Let's fast forward 2 years. New management at the utility company. Some young suit get's hired right out of college to run the line crews - from the office. That really didn't go over well with the guys in the field. Especially my husband. And he wasn't one to mince words. Long story shorter, Hubby pissed off new boss - big time. But...his performance was such that they couldn't touch him. Until they realized he didn't have a DL. Then they fired him.

We called the union - the big wigs (local that is) came over and ate up what little food we had, drank every drop of beer in the house and promised to fight to the end to get him his job back. It never even went to review. Nothing. Not one flippin' meeting, not one phone call. All we got was a damned letter telling us that upon further thought there really wasn't a case. Not one red cent from the union brothers and sisters. Just that flippin' letter. Enter the dark ages of Tammi's life.

I watched my Mom's activities with the union over the years. I saw more and more that she was started to question the purpose, the loyalty. Mama had spent over 30 years in the union and knew some pretty important people. One day in a meeting where they were discussing some inane item, she stood up and told them to kiss her ass. She was over it! Like chinese water torture they had finally wore her down.

I've refused to join a union in a couple of jobs I had. It was my personal choice, I didn't campaign against them, I just voted my heart. I voted based on what I had seen in my life.

The unions are mad because of the changes in OT pay the President Bush is proposing. It's flex time - you have more flexability in your schedule so that if you work 4 10hr days you have more time for family, schooling or what ever. You come in later if you need to and just work your time. It's a scheduling challenge but it can actually have a very postive impact on the work place. I've had that arrangement in the last 3 companies I worked for. But in those instances OT was still available. And I'll admit - I milked it. Everyone did. If I needed extra cash I just worked OT. Did I need to for my job? Sometimes, but usually not. I saw my husbands group milk it big time. They knew exactly how many hours they had to stay on shift so that they could stay on double time, and make it to trip time in short order. They stepped down just long enough to rest and not lose that pay. It was a game, a scam. Yeah - and I was just a guilty as the next person.

Flex time is not a bad thing. It's a life saver. If you have a family or are especially busy it's a God Send. By allowing you flexability you can reduce some of the stress in your life trying to figure out how to gain that balance. Here is a quote from GeorgeWBush.com that explains it better than I do.

Actually, flextime has been around many years as a women's issue. But feminists envisioned moving those 40 hours around — not reducing them. For example, someone might work four 10-hour days, then take a three-day weekend. ...
Many workers who toil long hours already can choose between taking more cash or more time. For nearly a quarter-century, flextime has been available to federal workers. Not a few union contracts offer flextime provisions as a worker benefit. In any case, people aren't complaining that employers have coerced them to take the extra time off and forgo bigger paychecks.

Certainly, there are workers who need or otherwise want that overtime cash. But for so many, especially parents, time has become the most valuable commodity

Read it and make up your own mind. This topic just kind of jerks my chain.

You see - I'm about sick and tired of these damn organizations with tunnel vision. Doesn't anyone look at the bigger picture? Doesn't anyone give a rats ass about the greater good?

Place the blame where it belongs. You pissed off about so many jobs going over seas? Then make that company see that. Take away your business. Send emails, but don't blame the President. The office of President of the United States is the most powerful office in the world. Hands Down. BUT.......the President does not control Corporate America, and please dear Lord - don't let that ever happen.

What happened over the weekend with the protests by the AFL-CIO was wrong. They had no right storming those offices and intimidating those workers. The unions are struggling to maintain the choke-hold they have held in times past. It's not pretty, and it won't get any better until everyday citizens let them know that enough is enough. Look to the Greater Good. Look to the benefits for EVERYONE, not just the select few. I think in order for the unions to survive in the future, they are the ones that need the major overhaul.

WARNING TO CHICAGO LAND BLOGGERS

**sing to melody of Old McDonald**

Tammi is a comin' home - Ee i ee i o
She's headin' north in just a month - Ee i ee i o
She'll be around
She'll hit the town
Hear a laugh
There a drink
wouldn't it be fun, you think?

Tammi is a comin' home - Ee i ee i o

So what the hell is all that about anyway? Yes, I'm heading north folks. I have to drive up for the Thanksgiving weekend to bring Mama Vi back with me for a month.

So....I got to thinking. I'll have a car - I'm not far from Chicago and surrounding area. We could have a meet!!!!!! I know I know it's the holiday weekend - but what about that Friday? Hmmmm, or even that Sunday?

Let me know if you're interested. I would love to actually meet some of you - and yes Teresa, I'm hoping we can get together!!

I just got a phone call...

I was just sitting here laughing at some of the comments that have been left when the phone rang. It was my best friend in Indiana. As I answer she yells at me that she didn't want to talk to me she wanted to leave a message. So, I say -

Hi, this is Tammi. I'm sorry I'm not available to take your call but please leave your name, telephone number and a brief message and I'll get back with you as soon as possible. Thanks for calling!! BEEEPPPPPPP.

Next thing I hear is a song. Bette Midler's Wind Beneath My Wings. I know so many of us know it, but let's just take a moment to read the lyrics.

THE WIND BENEATH MY WINGS (Bette Midler)

It must have been cold there in my shadow,
to never have sunlight on your face.
You were content to let me shine, that's your way,
you always walked a step behind.

So I was the one with all the glory,
while you were the one with all the strength.
A beautiful face without a name -- for so long,
a beautiful smile to hide the pain.

CHORUS:
Did you ever know that you're my hero,
and ev'rything I would like to be?
I can fly higher than an eagle,
'cause you are the wind beneath my wings.

It might have appeared to go unnoticed,
but I've got it all here in my heart.
I want you to know I know the truth, of course I know it,
I would be nothing with out you.

(CHORUS)

Fly, fly, fly away,
you let me fly so high.
Oh, fly, fly,
so high against the sky, so high I almost touch the sky.
Thank you, thank you, thank God for you,
the wind beneath my wings.

Yeah, I cried. She does this kind of thing all the time. She's not good at showing her affection. No hugging, never say I love you. But she does things like this. And lately she tells me she misses me.

I miss you too Sharon. Thanks sweetie - I love you!

Today and the Perfect Dress

I am claiming today. Yep - it's all mine, mine, mine.

While planning out the weekend I forgot that today was a holiday. The banks are closed. Oops, I didn't budget for that. So instead of heading to Daytona I'm actually going to take my day off this week. I'm pretty damn excited.

I'm going to take a couple of strolls through the blogsphere, visit some friends, comment as much as my little heart desires.

I'll probably work on a couple reports - but not really slam them out, as It's My Day Off.

I might check the voicemail on my cell phone. Maybe. And then again, maybe not.

I'm exhausted folks. Just plain exhausted. My training classes went great this weekend and I really am glad I did them. I got so much energy back from the sales reps. BUT....I still need some Tammi time.

I did do a bit of shopping yesterday, after my class was over. The wedding I'm singing in next month isn't quite the "small affair" I was led to expect. Yeah, we're at 280 people so far. The bridesmaids are wearing strappless gowns, the brides gown is strappless, beaded and has about 7000 miles of material in it. So, I quickly realized my little cocktail dress wasn't really going to cut it. Damn. Knowing that I have very expensive tastes - VERY EXPENSIVE TASTES - I head to my favorite outlet mall. They have some designer shops where, if you're good, you can find a great deal.

Holy Cow. Not many choices. I don't normally shop for formal wear so hadn't noticed that the selection is rather thin at this place. Then I walked into Escada. Oh, yeah. Now normally I have problems finding anything in European sizes that fit. I found out while shopping in Paris, they have short arms and no hips. Yeah - well, this baby's got back. And I'm a tall girl - my arms are long.

However - I found it. I found THE PERFECT GOWN for life. I'm looking for a picture and can't find one so I'll try hard to describe.

It's gold. A beautiful champaign gold, soft and subtle. It's sleeveless with a draped neckline. Tasteful, sexy without being overt. But what makes the dress? 100% silk. It falls like water, just floating over you with movment that is contant, like a heatbeat. The slit is just high enough for glamour, but not so high that you have to worry about it. The only thing I'm disappointed in is that it doesn't reach the floor. But, I am 6'2" so I guess I should be happy it falls below the ankle, and that it is acceptable.

AND...it was on sale. SALE - my favorite 4 letter word. It's the kind of gown that I will be able to wear for years and years and years. Well, if I had somewhere to wear it that is.

I love the way I feel in this dress. The color is perfect. Even without my usual tan, it flatters. The red in my hair was exactly the color needed without being flashy. I feel glamourous and beautiful. And that was just in the changing room!!! I forgot what a fabulous gown does to you. It's been a few years since I walked the catwalk, and for a brief moment I was that girl again. Confident, young, sexual. Yeah - that's what a good dress will do for you.

Holy cow. It's a gorgeous dress. And Yes - Harvey - before you even ask, I'll try and get someone to take a picture. I'm sure there will be a couple of opportunities.

But ohhhhh, this dress. Damn. It's very pretty. Now - I'm on the hunt for 2" evening sandles. I can do this. After all - I found the perfect dress.

Another Walk Down Memory Lane

Blogbro Jeff has a post up for swapping West Virginia jokes. My good friend Jovi happens to be from WV and gave him a good run for his money. It all reminded me of a story.

Back in the mid 80's I was working at an Insurance company as an Audit Rater. Mindless work, but it paid pretty well and I really made some great lifelong friends. One was Deb. Deb was this tall, beautiful blonde born in West Virginia. Here parents were polish, so we had lots to tease her about. And trust me - I took advantage of every opportunity.

I loved to make her blush. And it was sinfully easy. One day - she was going on her first "real" vacation - to Cancun. So.....I stage a little party for her at work to celebrate the day before she left. While she was at lunch, I went to the car and got my supplies. I covered her desk in black plastic tarps and dumped a couple bags of sand on it. In the sand I stuck little presents. A plastic bucket and shovel, little drink umbrellas - you know cute stuff. Then I hid the real present in with that. Really good suntan oil, new sunglasses I knew she wanted, a really cool beach bag and one of those really powerful squirt guns. Then I passed out cheesey sunglasses to everyone in the department and we just sat at our desks waiting for her to get back.

Damn, I still have to chuckle when I think about it. The look on her face - and she was so fair that she blushed purple. She didn't know how to react. It was hysterical. Then, when she finished looking at all her goodies she held up the squirt gun and asked me what the hell that was for. I just scowled and told her that she couldn't expect me to come and rescue her while she was being held by sex starved idiots in Cancun. I may be Tambo, but I couldn't fix everything. She still calls me Tambo.

On her 29th birthday I just about killed her. I used to pick her up for work of the morning. So that particular morning I left the house extra early to get all my "stuff" in order. Picked her up at the regular time and bought her coffee to "start her special day off" right. Then we started the drive to work. All along the main drag into town I had posted big ass signs that announced that Today Was Deb ****'s 29th Birthday, along with several other tidbits. I had drapped her desk in black crepe paper. Everyone in the office dressed in black. At noon I had a funeral spray delivered with a balloon that said "We Mourn the Passing of Your Youth". The next year she threatened to take that entire week off unless I promised on all things holy to not pull another stunt like that. I agreed. Instead - when she got to the office I had a vase with 30 red roses and 1 white on sitting on her desk. A simple card that just said Happy Birthday - Tammi. (See I can be nice.)

A few years later, she was promoted and became my boss. It was great because we could easily seperate business from friendship. She was tough but fair. Then...she put in for a transfer. You knew I couldn't let that go without something. So....we had accidently bought the same dress one time. Mine was Blue, her's was black but it was the same dress. I called her boyfriend and told him I didn't care what he had to do, but she had to wear that dress on that particular day. I called and told her I couldn't drive her that day as I had a doctors appointment in the morning and I'd be on the later shift. So....about 9:15 that morning I came strolling in wearing the same dress and a curly blonde wig. Her initals were DAH so I had a name tag printed up that said DUH. Yeah - it was flippin hysterical.

Damn, those were some fun times. I had so much fun. Life was pretty simple then and I'll treasure my memories of my polish blonde friend from WV always.

We Won, We Actually WON!!

Buc's Win! Buc's Win!! I can almost breathe again. Whew.

Of course, you know I have a few thoughts regarding this game, so bear with me. I need to get these out.

Chris Sims - damn tough break. They are saying it's an injury that will take a while to heal. This is all we need. Hopefully Griese has enough in him to keep us going until Chris heals up. I think the fact that they brought in Griese told Johnson where he stands any more. FINALLY. *BTW - Brad Johnson is a GREAT guy. Truly. Just time to let him mentor the new guy and help him reach is potential.

Speaking of Brian Griese - Holy Cow! His experience really helped us today. Not to mention I would have loved to be in that huddle (for several reasons) just to hear his motivation. Hee Hee - I'll bet it was "interesting"

Ronde Barber - Again, I have to say - RONDE ROCKS!! I've always been a fan of his and his brother. I am so happy to see he's back in his game this year. Last year wasn't one of his best and I missed that spark he has.

You can tell Pittman's back. He really does add an explosive element to the offense. Now - I don't like him as a person. I wish we didn't need him as much as we do. It's that violence, that incredible physical spark that he adds on the field that causes me to dislike him so much off the field. If only he kept it for Sunday (and the occasional Monday). Pity.

For just a moment, one bright and beautiful moment, near the end of the game I thought Cox was going to be the first in Buc's history to return a Kick for a touch down. For just a a second there was this hope that sparked to life. He didn't but I love the fact that we thought he just might do it!!

At 1 min 56 seconds left in the game the announcer says "Barring a miracle, the Buc's have won their first game this season." I almost threw the TV into the pool. NO, NO, NO - I yell!! How DARE You take the chance of jinxing us that way!!! You NEVER NEVER announce something like that when you've lost so many games lately. You wait, you think it, you smile, you stand in front of the TV and you pray, but you NEVER say it out loud. He's a very lucky man. If something would have happened and we ended up losing that game, I'd have gotten in my car and driven to where ever I needed to and kicked his mouthy ass. In a heartbeat. Hrumph. Fool.

But.....what it all boils down to is the Buc's have one in the win column. Finally. Now - if we can just pull it off again - preferably next Monday night in St. Louis. Damn......I hate going into a MNF game with this kind of record.

Mornin!

I see light outside the office window so I am assuming it is morning (I certainly hope it's not afternoon!!)

Have you ever noticed that when you really really need a good nights sleep you never get one? Have you ever noticed that you can be so tired you're afraid to even be driving and as soon as you lay down you're wide awake. I HATE THAT!!!

Honest to goodness my first thought when the alarm went off was "Time to make the donuts". It's especially funny because I've got to stop and pick up three or four dozen for my class this morning.

I've got to get the energy level up, and quick. I've just about finished my pot of coffee and can start to feel the brain kicking in. But I've got to be chipper, perky, and actually be able to form complete sentences and - here's the kicker - say them out loud.

It'll be fine. I'm sure. I'm usually pretty good once it all get's started. I lose myself to the moment. I'm watching their faces and can see when I've scored a point. That pumps me, which leads to more from them and it just keeps going.

Which leads me to the highlight of my day. The Buc's play the Saints in New Orleans. I've already set out my favorite Buc's t-shirt and boxer shorts. I'm even pulling out the hat. Oh yeah - I've realized that I haven't been as focused lately and they miss that. :)

Check out the opening video to their website this week. It's cheesey as hell and I loved it. It's a take on Star Wars and features Chris Sims, who is starting his first pro game this week.

I won't bore ya'll with what I think needs to happen for us to win this game, I'll just tell you that we need to win this game.

It's Sunday!!! I may have to work, but let me ask you one thing.......

Are You Ready For Some Football!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GO BUC'S!!

It Never Ends

Hook shares a couple of pictures showing the Vote in Afghanastan. These put tears in my eyes.

I've tried so hard to remember that women in this country haven't always been able to vote. I don't want to be one of those people that take our freedom for granted.

And you know what? That freedom hasn't come over night. The democratic PROCESS (not party) continues to evolve, grow. We feel those growing pains constantly. That's the beauty of it. It's not like turning on a light switch and all of a sudden everyone if free, equal and happy. It's A Continuing Process - with gains and losses. It's like a good marraige. It takes commitment, attention and focus. It's a never ending journey.

I think it's beautiful to see the Afghan people take that first step.

Carnival of the Jammies

Damn (again) Not only do I have hot blogbros (and sisters) but DAD ROCKS TOO!!! We have a very studly family!!

Hurry up and visit the Carnival of the Jammies.

Hey girls, the guys have upped the anty!

Joke Fest - with a twist

BlogBro Jeff is havin' a joke fest. A West Virginia Joke Fest.

He's got things off an running with a few samples. Pop on over and add to the list. I can't wait to see what ya'll come up with!!!

I've got to try and remember some of my favorites. See ya there!!

My BlogBrothers are HOT!!!

DAMN........................

So I get home, exhausted but want to tell you about last night (below) and check on my blog family.

I head over to Johnny_Oh's to see what's going on. WOWOW!!!!!!!! He's got pictures. And I LIKE 'em!! I like 'em ALOT!! He's posted for the Carnival of Jammies, but I couldn't wait to tell you! WOW!!

Then I head on over to T1G's place and WHAM! He's got pictures too!!! I actually giggled with glee!! I like these ALOT too!!WOW!

I just opened a second window and toggled between the two. It's was the perfect way to end my day!

Thanks Guys!!! You did this girl a world of good!

WOW!!!

*alt tab, alt tab, alt tab* ;-)

Note to self...

No more bachlorette parties the night before an early morning sales training class.

Harvey? You were right Dude. So much for an early evening. But oh, did we have fun.

I had a pretty rough day yesterday and ended up working later than expected. So, instead of getting to change clothes and be comfortable for our shindig I ended up wearing my work clothes. Key Point - my shoes were killing me. Anyway - I'm getting ahead of myself.

I got to the hotel right on time, and no one was there yet. Seems they under estimated the traffic. Hmmm, imagine that. Again - Does No One Listen To Me When I Talk?!?! So I had a Frangelica at the bar to unwind and sat outside smoking until they get there.

Can I just say I have some of the most beautiful friends on earth?! The vehicle drives up and out climbs 5 gorgeous blonds, dressed to the nines and all of the around 5'4. They looked like sisters. Gee, why did I suddenly feel like that spot in Sesame Street, One of these things is not like the others, one of these things just doesn't belong. Anyway - hugs and oohs and ahhs all around. I haven't seen most of the girls in 2 years. I asked for pictures of the kids, everyone got checked in and we headed to Wolfgang Pucks in Downtown Disney.

Yummy. I had the Pumpkin Ravioli Mezzaluna. Oh. My. Goodness. A couple of Appletinis' just made it perfect.

It was very pricey - but I'm the only one in the group that has to worry about that so I just sucked it up.

During dinner, with lots of laughing and stories and Remember when's I announced I wouldn't be able to go to Pleasure Island as it was so late and I had to be on the road by 7:00am. Can I just say that didn't go over so well. No, it really wasn't an option. So off I go, in the most uncomfortable shoes known to man and a tad bit over dressed in my cute little corporate skirt!

First Stop the Beach Club. OUTSTANDING. The band was playing more hard rock stuff from the 70's and 80's with some early punk threw in. Now I need to tell you, that while I've known these girls for a while now, the Bride to Be is the only one that knows me really well. I think it really suprised them that I knew all the songs, and after kicking my shoes off, still remembered most of the dances! WooHoo. BTW - that Bucket of Rum drink stuff......yummy.

The we headed to the Mannequins Dance Palace. It was all techno stuff, not really my cup of tea. But the people watching......wow. Yeah, that's about all I can say right now.....wow.

After that is was off to 8Trax with the 60's and 70's stuff. That was fun, but by then it was 2:00am and I was so tired to best I could do was sip my drink and bopped my head to the music.

We hobble back to the taxi and head out. They got rooms, I headed home. Hit the hay around 3:00 and the alarm went off at 6:00am. *Hopefully that explains the HORRIBLE typo's in my posts from this morning*

I hit the shower, realized I was out of coffee and just about called and cancelled the training. However, I am a grown up so I got all gussied up and pulled everything together and hit the road.

The training went fantastically. The sales associates were open to the new ideas, love the new bed and we just had a great day together.

Right now - I just got home and am heading for the couch. I've got another class tomorrow at 9:00am and I've got to get revitalized.

But last night was worth it. It was so good to see everyone. So good to celebrate this upcoming wedding of two people that I love so much. Yeah - I'm tired, but there's a smile on my face.

FINALLY!!

Lately there's just being something missing. Something not quite right.

I noticed. Did you?

Well, he's back. FINALLY Lex has returned from sea and graced us with a Friday Musings and some other tidbits. I'm so glad.

Ahhhh, now there is balance!

Welcome home Lex!!

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:

Since it's almost Halloween, let's take a stroll down memory lane. What was your favorite TREAT to get whle you were trick or treating?

Growing up in the 60's life was so much simpler. Kids got dressed in their costumes and hit the streets of the neighborhood. And it was ENCOURAGED!! :-) I remember meeting up with all my friends at dusk, the excitement so intense, aniticipation of what wonderful goodies we would be collecting the driving factor.

We didn't really care about the costumes, oh they were cool and we ohhed and ahhed appropriately, but it was all about the goodies. And I mean goodies, not just candy.

Our neighborhood was a pretty tight group. Everyone knew each other, spent lots of time with each other - just like an extended family. So homemade goodies were fine and safe.

Of course you had the candy bars and chocolate kisses, but there were just not the big winner. It was like the moms in our neighborhood put on a competition to see who could "hit one out of the park" with the kids each year - the winner always being the kids themselves. There were rice crispie treats with little candy pumpkins on them, homemade fundge wrapped in cute halloweeen paper, popcorn balls, and my favorite Carmel Apples.

And word spread fast on the streets. As we would pass up and down the sidewalks you'd hear - Davis has popcorn balls!!! Fritz has $1000 bars, but if you stand there she'll give you and extra handfull!!

Oh yeah, we worked it, and loved every minute. After going to each house (and if you were brave the "good ones" twice we head home and sort everything out. There was always too much, and it was always too good.

Damn, those were the days, ya know? And I LOVED those carmel apples. So, What was your favorite TREAT to get whle you were trick or treating?

Funny Stuff

I love JibJab and they've got a new music video out staring Bush/Cheney and Kerry/Edwards with just tons of surprise guests.

Go - watch this.

Hat Tip Accidental Verbosity!!!

Looking For Some Good News?

Especially regarding the GWoT?

Then head on over to Chrome Dome Zone.

Chromey got back from the SandBox a little while ago, and had thought to maybe just stop posting. Yikes.

I'm happy to say that both he and his wife have changed their minds. They are making a point of sharing the Good News on what is going on over there. I know I really appreciate it. I make it a point to get over there at least once a day, just to smooth out some of those rough edges that develop thanks to all the negative stuff from the MSM.

So, head on over there and check it out. I think we can all use a bit of postive now and then.

Friday?!?!

I just looked at the calendar and realized it's Friday. Damn, I remember when that used to make me so very happy. Fridays used to mean a longer lunch, happy hour with my pack-o-friends, evenings on the lanai listening to music, 2 whole days to do what ever my little heart desired. Yeah, I have a dreamy smile just remembering.

Now? Well, today is hitting as many stores as I can, after a visit to the doctor. Tonite, finishing up and printing my training booklets on a new product we launched. Tomorrow - 2 store wide training classes and at least 4 stores in the afternoon. Sunday is another store wide training class with a couple of visits slipped in afterwards. Monday - Daytona. Do ya see the difference?

BUT....there is some really good things about this weekend. Tonite is my friends "girls nite" over at Pleasure Island. She's the one getting married next month, and a bunch of us that used to work together are going to have one last blow-out. I'll be a little reserved since I have a 9:00am call first thing Saturday. But that's ok. I'm looking forward to the company.

THEN....I'm meeting up with Keystone from Keystone Military for dinner Saturday nite. She's visiting in St. Pete and we're going to have a nice "meet and greet" dinner. I'm REALLY looking forward to that!

And of course there is football. :-) My team may not being doing so well, but I'll still be sitting here cheering and coaching them on!

So, yeah, it's a weekend. And I do get to play a little bit. It's not like the old days, but I've always said You Can Never Go Back. You can only remember.

What are your plans for the weekend? I sure hope it's a good one for you. And don't forget to drop by the party over at Lee Ann's. It's off to a good start - SuperCat, Zoro, Zebraman..........yeah - looking very interesting!!

PARTY!!!!!!!!!!!

Lee Ann has kicked off the comment party over at her place.

Like all good parties it has a theme. You can come as either a Super Hero or your favorite Black and White Film Actress/Actor.

She's got all the party favors, all we're missing is you.

If you haven't been to one of the Bad Example Family parties, you don't know what you're missing. But I warn you........it can get a little racy. So don't forget that twisted sense of humor. ;-)

So hurry up, get on over there. Then don't forget to check back - these events can last for a while. We Love To Party!!!

Once Upon A Time...

Harvey has a post up about his Fantasy Blogroll. This of course caused me to respond with a rather long comment (there's a surprise) which is leading to this post.

Have you ever wondered how I got started with this blog thing? No? Well, I'm gonna tell you anyway. Plus it's a chance to point out some of my favorites.

Back before the actual war in Iraq started I was looking for some information on what was going on. I've never been a big internet person. Honestly - I'm just now figuring Google out. But....I googled Iraq War and got a wonderful list. There was one that caught my attention, as it was different. It was personal. It was Lt. Smash.

I. Was. Hooked.

I'd never heard of such a thing. I asked some of my more "withit" friends and they told me about these weblogs and how they are trash. Just ignore them. No monitoring, nothing but gossip and crap. Thank GOODNESS I didn't listen. Even though he only posted once a day, I found myself clicking back every chance I got. Reading and re-reading everything he wrote, every comment left. After about a month, I got bold and left a comment of my own. Nothing happened. No one laughed at me, no one made fun of me. All of a sudden I had a "friend" in the war, and a direct line to what was going on.

I noticed this list of sites on the side of his page, but I never clicked it. I was content to read what he had to say. Then one day he linked this guy called Blackfive. So I followed the link. WOW. This guy could write. The site was fairly new, so I quickly read EVERYTHING I could. Having been a commentor on Smash's site, I wasn't afraid to leave a comment now and again on Blackfive. Soon, I felt like I had another friend that could help me know what was going on. He was in the states, but his knowledge blew me away.

He led me to Mudville. I'll never forget the first time he responded to one of my comments. You'da thought I had just gotten a promotion or something.

Meanwhile I'm trying to tell my friends about this great new thing I've discovered. It was called a blogsphere. It was made up (for me) of all these wonderful sites that talk about what was really going on with the war, helping to explain things that people were talking about, and giving me a chance to support the troops. For the most part they would smile and nod (the only thing missing was the pat on the head.) Most of them didn't get it.

One day I noticed a comment from someone called Laughing Wolf. WOW - This guy could write. I clicked right on over and discovered a place that expanded my mind in ways I didn't realize needed expanding. I learned about politics, space, wine, food, cooking, guns, you name it. I started leaving comments and would get email replies. That was the beginning of a friendship I'll always treasure.

Meanwhile Mudville posted a link to a new MilBlogs, Neptunus Lex. (he's currently at sea and having site problems) This guy cracked me up. Sea Stories, insight, politics. Yeah!! More to learn!! Again, not being shy, I left comments and discovered another friend.

Meanwhile I kept noticing this commentor everywhere I went. I began looking for her comments because they were so very good. Funny, Insightful, Thought provoking. Then WHAM - she got her own site - Technicalities, announced by Blackfive. I wasted no time going over there. I started commenting, and again, a friendship beyond description was born.

At both Blackfive and Technicalities I kept seeing this guy Harvey. Damn he cracked me up. I would visit his site but never leave comments. He was soooo funny I didn't have anything to add that was worth writing. But I read. Oh yeah, I read.

Then one Wednesday morning in March I clicked on one of the links I followed from Blackfive and found this thing called Blogspot. What? Free software to start a blog? How cool is that!!! So in a matter of 10 mins, I had a blog. I sat there and read my very first post and thought - oh shit. What the hell have I done? I'm not in the military. I don't know politics like most of the places I read. I'm NOT anywhere NEAR as funny as Harvey. What makes me think anyone will even bother reading this. Oh well, it's just for fun anyway.

So I shoot off an email to Laughing Wolf and Lex, letting them know I had taken the plunge. The rest, as they say, is history. Pretty soon I had regular readers and was having the time of my life. Then one day I was reading Blackfive and he mentioned ME! And linking ME. And blogrolling ME. Holy Shit. Then Mudville, then Hook. Oh My Goodness. These men that I admired so very much, who didn't know me from adam, actually linking to little ole me. Honored? YEAH! Touched? More than anyone will know.

Then I finally admit that I'd been stalking Harvey. He started popping by and offering advise. I was so thrilled that someone was actually willing to help me get better at this little hobby of mine. Then came the day I was invited to join the Bad Example Family. Harvey - you'll never know the impact that has had on my life. As a direct restult of that invitation, I've been blessed with some friendships that I will treasure always. Thank you.

So, that's the story of how I became a blogger. Kinda cool isn't it? And my world keeps expanding everyday. More and more people become friends. People I enjoy visiting, talking with, learning from. The best part???? It has no ending in sight!

A Must Read

Hopefully ya'll are making it over to Trying to Grok on a regular basis, reading what Sarah has to say - cause if you aren't you are really missing some wonderful things.

Sarah is a Military wife, living in Germany, while her husband is in Iraq. She's a teacher, patriot and well, just someone that I really admire.

In this post she shares the news that one of the soldiers she had been working with to get back into college died.

This post tells about the memorial service and gives us more insight in to the MAN who was SGT. Tyler Prewitt. Please read this and then READ THE COMMENTS. Please, Read them - you'll be glad you did.

Sometimes I get all caught up in just trying to keep smiling, I get bogged down in my daily grind. I go and read what Sarah shares and am reminded of a world so much bigger than Florida, and business so much more important than mattresses.

Go Read it. And then make sure you keep checking with Sarah - she's a great addition to your day!

Carnival of Jammies

Boy - this week went fast!! It's time again for the Carnival of the Jammies.

These are the instructions, straight from Harvey's site.

Post a picture of yourself (or a professional model whose picture you copied off some web page - like I'd know the difference anyway) in your favorite blogging attire. Leave a permalink in the comments to this post, send a trackback, or e-mail the link directly to me at harvolson@charter.net.

I've posted my comfy jammies and my "special occasion" jammies - this week I'm going to be a little different. I'm going to show you an actual picture of me in my actual normal blogging clothes. Yep. (it's a repeat but it is my favorite clothes).

I adore my button fly, low slung jeans with a comfy top. If I didn't live in Florida it would probably be a super soft sweater. In fact - that is what I'm wearing right now.

So.......here I am wearing my very favorite blogging outfit.

OH AND GUYS?!?!?! We're looking for a few good men!! Come on - show us your jammies!!!! I dare ya!

About Last Night

First and foremost - Thank You for the Apology ShadowBoxer. I appreciate it. I haven't responded earlier as I was on the road, and felt you deserved a post of your own, with thought applied. :-)

Also - do I have a great family or what?!? You guys rock. I had this image of standing there with ya'll behind me holding pitchforks. (ok - I'm a farm girl at heart, give me that one, will ya!)

I'd like to try and address some of the points that SB brought up in his comments. I'll give them the best response I can, given I've spent the day running numbers. :)

1. I think the outrage (real or otherwise) that some people are displaying about Kerry 'breaking the rules' by bringing a pen to the debate is vastly overblown. You're entitled to your opinion, and this is mine.

Having said that, Kerry did violate the letter of the agreement, but not the spirit. Bush did so as well, as you've already acknowledged in your other post, once you were made aware of it - sometimes he merely violated the letter of the agreement, sometimes quite clearly the spirit thereof, which naturally is worse.

Yes - I did correct that in my post, and appreciate the acknowledgment. However, what I probably didn't explain as well as I could have is the fact that over time, looking at everything, it was like the straw that broke the camels back for me. Yes, both parties made mistakes. In this debate. But.....(and you know I got one) Over time, I just don't see the Character of Kerry as someone I WANT as my President.

Neither Man has been without fault. That being said, your earlier comments about GWB drinking and snorting after being "saved". I don't believe he's done it since he said that he quit. He acknowledges having misbehaved in his youth. Haven't most of us? I did. And I'm "saved" - although I hate that word in that context. I drink. I smoke (cigarettes). I curse like a sailor. Doesn't change my character. I care about people. Make responsible decisions, and would never forgive myself if I caused the kind of pain to ANYONE that Kerry caused with his whole Viet Nam escapades over the years. That's what I'm talking about.

2. To be consistent about sticking to agreed rules, let me throw a few examples out there for you:

a.) Bush this year missed the deadline for filing as a presidential candidate in the state of Florida. According to the rules, he would not be allowed on the ballot. What should be done about this?

According to the St. Pete's Times some of the paperwork was a day late. Yes. BUT....according to the Republican Convention schedule, Bush did not formally accept the nomination UNTIL Sept. 2 - the very day the papers were filed. He can't really file the papers, until he's offically nominated, can he? If he did, I have to think there would be people complaining about that also.

b.) In the presidential election in Florida in the year 2000, a number of absentee ballots showed up after election day, without post marks. According to the rules (designed to prevent fraud), those ballots should not have been counted. What should have been done with these?

Here you got me SB. I hadn't even heard that part. All I remember hearing was that we here in Florida didn't know how to vote - and that people were trying to keep felons from voting (which I agree with BTW). You send me a link where I can do some reading and I'd be happy to respond.

c.) In the presidential debate, Bush walked past the center line over to the left side of the stage to shake Kerry's hand, which was in clear violation of the agreement. Later on, Bush spoke out of turn, again in clear violation of the agreement. What should be done about this?

These are the infractions I acknowledged previously. IMHO - do the same thing they are doing with Kerry. Note it, don't do it again. However - my theme, which I must not be expressing very well is still that when I look back over the years - both men made mistakes, misjudgments, etc. HOWEVER - looking at the Men They Are Today, based on how they handled those mistakes and the choices they have made in their lives - I'll pick GWB every day.

BTW - the Blogkids - I can't claim 'em. One is a dear friend who actually mother's me better than I mother her. The other is someone who has become a dear friend, that says I helped to convince her to start a site of her own. I'm honored. (scared, but still honored)

Hope that clears up a bit of why I feel the way I do. You're right - most people are right that the incident doesn't deserve the attention it's getting. I just wrote out my thought process after the fact.

Soundtrack of My Life

BlogBro T1G has the Soundtrack of his life - 15 songs. It got me thinking. I don't know if I have 15, but I'll sure try.

There's no particular order.

1) Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious - Mary Poppins
The first movie I ever saw in the theater. I thought that song was the greatest thing since sliced bread, and made my mom buy the music so I could learn it. I performed it in front of anyone silly enough to sit down in front of me for at least a year. It's still one that puts a smile on my face. Ahhh Innocence.

2) I Don't Know How to Love Him - Jesus Christ Superstar
My Mother loved this song. I remember when it first became popular on the radio, Mom would crank it up and we'd all sing at the top of our lungs. I sang it solo for a talent show in Jr. High School in honor of Mom.

3) In The Garden - Hymn
This was my Grandfather's favorite song. He would hum this song as he puttered in the garden or worked on the farm. My family sings this in 8 part harmony, with no music. It's like hearing God's own angels sing.

4) Amazing Grace - Hymn
Daddy's favorite song. You always heard him humming it under his breath. And when we'd take road trips, it was always his request.

5) The Rose - Bette Midler
When this song first came out, my best friend sang it constantly. To this day, if I want to embarrass her I just start humming it. I hear this and see her face as she sang along so intently.

6) Stairway to Heaven - Led Zeppelin
I hate this song. I don't care who sings it, I hate it. It was my ex-husband's favorite song. He made every band we went to hear play it. He would hit it on the Juke Box at least 5 or 6 times in every flippin' bar we were at. I hear this song and it actually causes me to be sick to my stomach.

7) Killing Me Softly - Roberta Flack
First song I sang with the jazz band. I sang it a bit faster than she did, with a different feel and I LOVED to perform that. I remember the first time, the reaction for the audience. Oh My Goodness. I felt like a flippin' star.

8) Eine Kleine Nachtmusik Mozart
I picked up an instrument called the Contra Bass Clarinet in high school to play in an group for state contest. We were assigned this song. The part written for the Contra Bass was so beautiful and fun to play, I fell in love with this song. I can't help but smile every time I hear it.

9) My Father's Eyes - Amy Grant
Another Christian song that I performed a lot in college. In honor of my Father. Daddy had the most incredible blue eyes, that saw...all the good, all the pain, all the sorrow, all the joy. The first time I heard this song, I knew it was mine. Always.

10) Back in Black - AC/DC
The first real Rock and Roll song I remember LOVING. There was such passion and anger in AC/DC that I couldn't get enough of it. This particular song amost got me kicked out of college - I'll tell you the story sometime.

11) Eric Clapton AND Van Morrison- period
I love these guys. I love everything about their music. I hear them, and it reminds me of quiet nights in a small town, sitting on the hood of my car drinking gin and hanging with my friends.

12) Independence Day - Martina McBride
MY SONG. The day I drove the truck away from the farm my ex husband and I shared, I had this blaring on the CD player, looping for the entire drive.

13)Galileo - Indigo Girls
I love the way this song fits together. The harmony, the meaning, the regret. It's beautiful. I first heard it sitting on a friends lania, drinking and expanding my horizons. It was a wonderful summer, and this song brings back the best of that time.

14) When You Say Nothing At All - Alison Krauss
This song is all about the only man I've ever loved. I didn't know that you could love someone like this, that someone could know you this well.

15) All My Rowdy Friends Are Comin' Over Tonite - Hank Williams Jr.
This is the "now" of my life. This song brings to mind blogging and comment parties, Harvey and the Entire Bad Example Family cast of characters that I know and love so well.

It's funny......I started out thinking 15 songs were too many. I could keep going, but I'll stop here. Who knows, maybe we'll do a Part II someday.

I Couldn't Resist

Stolen from Harvey, Machelle, T1G and ...... you get the indea - it's making the rounds.

Well, since I got 2 names I do two searches.

Here's for Tammi

That was interesting. Now let's see for Road Warrior........

I Like this game!!!

It's A PARTY!!!

Blogdaughter Lee Ann is hosting a comment party!

We spent last evening putting some finishing touches on her site and she wants to celebrate by having a party.

She's taking suggestions on a theme. Right now we have SuperHero's or your favorite Black and White Film Actor/Actress. Head on over and cast your vote or leave a suggestion.

THEN - head on over there tomorrow for a damn good time. We can also celebrate her new job. She starts next week so there is some excitement in the air.

She's already got the Reddi-Whip, Twister and Slip-N-Slid, we just need you!!!!!

NOW I'm Pissed

Well, what an interesting day yesterday turned out to be. For business that is - I'll address the "fun" here at the site in a separate posting.

I mentioned that I was going to sit down with one of the Sr. Reps and go over some "minor" training. Well.....everything is crystal clear now.

Let's review for a moment shall we? I was hired on to this company by 2 people that I very much wanted to work for. Very focused on training and growth. Very supportive, knew that a good sales reps needs a kick in the ass and a kiss on the forehead. Over the course of the last 10 months I on my 3rd VP and have no Territory Managers. None. So - there is no one to train. I met with my latest boss for 45 mins (along with other reps) back in June. I couldn't answer a lot of his questions, as I didn't have the info. I wasn't getting any reports. I wasn't given any training.

I made sure that he knew that.

Again - I feel like Charlie Brown's teacher. I talk, all anyone hears is WaaWaaWaaWaaWaa. Damn that pisses me off.

So I've been begging for training. No one had time, they just threw things at me with no explanation, incomplete forms, you name it.

So while I'm sitting with Sr. Rep he starts explaining how to use excel. **Side note: I was an analyst for 3 years. I have always done fact based selling that is accomplished by building databases and running analysis. I kinda know excel** After about 5 mins, I stop him, ask if he could just show me an example of where the data comes from and let me explain to him what I'm seeing so I can make sure I understand what I'm looking at.

He was surprised. And smug. Smug that he was sure I wouldn't know. I f'in blew him out of the water with my analysis. Based on a screen shot. He finally made the comment *paraphrase* Well, you DO know business. You DO understand. You aren't as ignorant as we thought. Oh - now I understand.

I was given a shit territory. By that I mean a territory that I have no control over. All I can do is be the face in the store, give training and answer questions. They Didn't Think I Was Smart Enough To Do The Job.

Screw Them. Now I have a focus. I now have the tools to understand my sales trends, analyze my demographics and understand the impact of outside influences on my business. I can now do a report that used to take me 5 hours in under 20 mins. Yeah. Now I can finally Do My Job.

And, now that I can do that, and understand what's been going on in the minds of my management, I can make some changes.

I'm gonna kick their ass. Let me explain. I have to have someone in my crosshairs. A target. At Tropicana it was Florida Natural and Minute Maid. I went after their business a drop at a time by doing my job better and better and knowing my business and my customer's business better than they did. Now - I'm going to prove to my company what a very bright girl I am. I'm going to kick ass and take names. My reports will always be the first done. I will know my business at the drop of a hat, so if someone calls I can discuss and correct on the spot.

Then I'm going to make sure they realize just how much they lost by underestimating me.

Yeah - now it's all about Tammi. My goal is to improve my territory so much that they have to apologize for the way I've been treated. And I won't accept the apology.

I may seem like a nice person, but when you screw with my life, my friends or my money I'll kick your ass. They hit 2 of the 3. Not good - for them.

WooHoo - Milestone

I want to thank Noble Eagle for being my 1000th commentor!!

Not bad folks, as we've only been at this site since July 1!!! Not to mention not on this site for a month!! 1000 comments in approx. 2 1/2 months. I like it.

I have to say - I have the best commentors ever!!

Thanks guys!

This and That

I've been on my soap box again lately, so I'll keep this one light and just kinda let you know what's going on and why.

First - about my new commenter. Some people would say I should have just zapped and banned. But I didn't. The main reason is because everyone is entitled to their opinion. I'm not going to stop someone from expressing theirs just because I don't happen to agree. That being said, I Will Not tolerate personal slams, name calling or just flat out trash. So I warn once. That's it, one warning. If you can stay focused on the content of what is posted and keep from the low blows, name calling and such then I'll just let things flow. Otherwise I ban.

I haven't had any real problems like this before - most everyone that stops by here is pleasant and we have a pretty good time. By commenting at other sites, I invited this exchange. **Note to self - think twice before you click that "post" button when visiting others.**

I'm getting ready to head out the door right now. Heading south to Ft. Myers for a day of meetings and such. I'm hoping I'll walk away from that with a better understanding of some of the details in my job. You'd think that afer a year I'd already have that under my belt, but alas, that is so far from the truth you'd be amazed. It's caused a lot of frustration and more than a few major incidents. I want to believe that this is just the first step in correcting those. We'll see. *Sometimes I think I'm really from Missiouri - Show Me!*

I had trouble sleeping again last night. That's been a problem for a while now, and last week the doctor gave me something to help me. However, since I had to be out and on the road this morning so very early, I didn't want to take anything and oversleep. So.....instead I thought. I thought a lot.

Do you ever sit back and look at the person you present to the world versus the person you see yourself as? I do. I hate hypocrosy. A lot. So I do a check looking to make sure I'm not guilty of it. I also believe that a person should always be growing, evolving. I think that's important and I put some effort into that.

But when I was there on the couch last night, trying not to get so deep into sleep that I screwed up, there was something that really became clear to me. You, the people that read this site, know me better than some friends I've had over the last 10 years. I've been more open, more Tammi here than I have in real life. Kind of the opposite of what many think about the internet, isn't it.

I think it started out so annonmously. I finally found an outlet where I could express my thoughts, my politics, my reactions without fear of retribution. I had the freedom to finally say what I really thought, express this sometimes warped sense of humor and, well, just be me.

I find that I often get frustrated at the way some of my friends treat me. Oh, now I've got some folks in my life that just love me for me, but I also have some that think they know me, but would be surprised if they read this blog. I've compartmentalized things. I have my play friends, I have my corporate friends, I have my family. And not very often to the groups intermix. I do that on purpose. My corporate friends are truly friends. It's just we do things like to go museums, the theater, have nice dinner parties, go to concerts. My play friends are the ones I've been in the trenches with. We get a little rowdy, we drink too much, take crazy trips, get into trouble. My family - well, they know what I tell them. :) It's better that way. And they are all spread all over the country.

But I found I was surprised that my play friends never dreamed that politically I am as conservative as I am. They actually thought I was a bleeding heart liberal. Not because I said anything that would lead them to believe that, because we don't talk about politics, we play. But they just assumed, with my background that I was a pretty sure bet in that.

My corporate friends know the intellectual side of me. They know I'm not a dumb girl. They realize in talking business with me that I am pretty conservative. They also know that I don't have any problem at all speaking up or taking charge. But many of them are shocked if they learn I used to sing in a band or model. They are amazed to discover that if you really scratch the surface you'll find a good ole girl beneath the polish. I've never denied that part of me, I just don't show it.

My family? We'll let's just say, the fact that I live in Florida makes our lives much easier, on several levels.

But all this boils down to my surprise at the fact that the friends I have made via this blog and being a part of this community are the ones that actually know me best. Some have become close, personal friends. People that I call or call me fairly regularly. Then there are you that visit and comment or send emails. WOW. You gotta know how much that means. And again, it surprises me. I've removed all the barriers between all the sections of my life and let it all mix together in one place. This blog. And it really feels good.

So....just a bit of this and that for today. I need to get on the road, but just thought I'd clean out what was on my mind. It can be kind of dangerous, me driving on open roads with so many thoughts pushing to get out.

INDC Journal Follows Through

Yesterday I pontificated about an object Kerry removed from his jacket pocket just before the debate last week. INDC has a great follow-up on what has been discovered.

It was a pen.

Yep. A pen.

And you know what? I don't care. I don't care what the object was. It doesn't matter. It was a breach of the agreed upon rules. Pure and simple.

Should he be punished? No, not really. Did it effect the debate? No, not really. Does it matter? Yeah - to me. Because, as I keep saying, it's another glimpse into his character.

Character matters to me. It really does. I'm about honesty and trust and loyalty. Hmmmm....I haven't seen any loyalty from Kerry. Not for anyone or anything that doesn't benefit him. I don't trust him. Never have. As for honesty, where do you think he falls in that category with me? Yeah, not so much.

He agreed to the rules, and then simply ignored one that was inconvienent to him. No big deal. Didn't have any impact. Except to those of us that care about that whole character thing.

**UPDATE: It's been pointed out to me - by other than my new commenter - that Bush spoke out of turn during the debates, also a clear violation of the rules. NOW......reread what I wrote above. Yes, there are rules. They are put forth to be followed. Both candidates need to work on that. In my defense, I didn't see that, and hadn't heard/read anyone else mention it either. Otherwise I WOULD have mentioned it in both posts.

HOWEVER - It doesn't change the fact that when you make the +/- lists - Bush comes out on the plus side for me. Given history. Given what I've observed. He's not perfect, I've never claimed that he was. BUT, as I've said repeatedly, all these little details, on both sides, are just data being processed.

It is my site - it is my opinion. I've paid for the right to express it. That's all.

In The Shit

Our boys over at Questing Cat are in the middle of the action over in Iraq. QC tells us of his adventure, and the Jersey Cowboy posts about the "before".

These guys ROCK!! And you'll find yourself caught up in the moment as they tell us what they are experiencing.

I'm so damned proud and GRATEFUL to all our Military men and women. Go, stop by and tell this fine young men how much you appreciate them.

Doesn't Surprise Me

SlagleRock has a piece on an incident currently being investigated.

"There had to be an investigation into the possibility that al-Qaida had the intention of infiltrating the Wornick Company for the purposes of contaminating -- possibly -- the MREs produced by the company," Shelby stated, according to The Monitor. Shelby said no contaminated meals have been found, but 10 temporary employees at Remedy, involved in all aspects of assembling the meals, were convicted in July on charges of stealing Social Security numbers.

Go and read the entire thing.

THIS is why it is so important to stay ever vigilent. As President Bush say's - there is more than one Front with this War on Terror.

Tactical Error

Oops. I just had MT Blacklist installed and while cleaning out some SPAM that I had, I may have accidently blocked a few of my favorite commentors.

If you try to leave a comment and can't shoot me an email. I'll get it fixed, as soon as I figure out how.

SORRY!!!

Monday's Thoughts on Football

First, and most important (at least here) SHIT. The Buc's lost again. 13/16 to the Denver Broncos. Lynch had a killer tackle against Michael Pittman that just silenced the stadium. We're so used to cheering for those types of things, no one knew what to do when it was against us. The game was closer than I expected, and for a minute there I thought we might just actually win. And I cheered and coached down to the last minute, never say Die. But alas - it was not to be. I don't know what it's going to take to spark this team. Well, yes, I do have some ideas. An energized QB, an offensive line that actually holds - and a defense that has a heart transplant. The changes over the past year has just sucked the life out of this team. The individual players are not bad - we just need something to bring it all together. We need a heart, and I fear that in the process of pulling what ever plan he has in his head together, Allen has shredded that heart to pieces.

How 'bout those Giants!! WooHoo, treated those cheeseheads like last night's snackfood. The Giants had a rough year last year, and with the change in coaching started out a bit rough in training. But Tiki Barber's TD was very pretty. Very very pretty.

And I saw the Steelers won too! Wow, that's gonna make some of my friends very happy. And Vick is looking a bit more like himself, now if he can just stop fumbling.

BTW - I'm getting my a$$ handed to me in Fantasy this year. This week is not looking good at all, the damn injuries are killing me. Last year was bad for my team, but great for the Fantasy. This year, I'm not doin' so well either way. I'm going to have to pay a bit more attention from now on.

Jammie Patrol Strikes Again

Well, isn't this interesting!!!

Strolling through Memeorandum this afternoon to see THIS on Drudge.

I'll break it down for you. Here's a link to INDC Journal. Watch this video from the debates.

It seems that while getting settled at the podium Kerry removed something from his jacket pocket and placed it on the podium in front of him. No big deal, you say? I call BullShit. It does matter, and here is why....

What's important to keep in mind is the fact that the rules state very clearly that any papers for notes or pens/pencils that the candidates plan to use during the debate are to be placed on the podium by staff or commission. *This is just a paraphrase of the rules - INDC has both the Memorandium of Understanding that was agreed upon by the candidates as well as the rules that are in question.

OK - I'm aware that Bush didn't do so great during the debates. It's just his style and while I hoped for more, I didn't really expect it. I'm not pontificating on this because of the result - I'm more upset because it happened, period.

I'm pointing this out because it's just one more example of Kerry's character (or lack there of). Now, if it turns out that his action was simply out of habit and nothing was removed from his jacket pocket and placed on the podium in front of him, I will - In Big Bold Letter Across My Blog - Apologize. But I don't think that will happen. We can't prove what it was, and frankly I don't really care. I care that he couldn't even abide by the rules that he agreed to. I care because this just one more example of how he believes he is above any restrictions.

I see the bloggers addressing it. I see INDC, The Daily Recycler and LGF as well as many other power hitting blogs looking into this - where's the MSM? Oh, wait - probably straightening their ties and checking their make-up. Good thing we bloggers are just sitting here in our living rooms, wearing our jammies!!!

No - I don't like Kerry. For any number of reasons - but this, this is just another nail in the coffin as far as I'm concerned.

I Need The NFL Package

I HATE CBS!!!

It's 4:09, the game started at 4:00 and I'm stuck watching the end of the Pats vs Buffalo game. Not for nothing, but I could give a shit who wins that one.

I need to see the crowds reaction when Lynch comes on the field. I need to see the opening kickoff. I need to see what's going on.

Arrggghhhh.....I've got to make more money. I need that package.

(/rant)

It's Sunday!!!

Ya'll Know What That Means!! Oh Yeah!!

GO BUCS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Today we're playing the Denver Bronco's. The best part!! JOHN LYNCH IS IN TAMPA!!!! He's coming Home. He is such a class act! Look at this guy.

HOW COULD WE LET HIM GO!!!!!!!!!!!!

So yes, I'll be cheering for my Bucs, you can take that to the bank. But I'll also be cheering for John to show those idiots in the front office just what they let slip away.

Truely the Doc's in the Box

Sean, over at Doc in the Box has a link to the local TV Stations interview with him last week.

Personally, I can't get the darn thing to run for me, but others are and I hear he did GREAT!!!!!

She's Done It Again

Dana, at Eat the Lettuce, has done another one of her Linkified Lyrics. This time it's Trace Adkins One Hot Mama (one of my favorite songs) and it ROCKS!!

Hey Bou - she loved that picture of you too!!!! ;)

But Dana, my drunken belly shot?!?!? OMG. But I do appreciate the thought and the links!!

I love when she does these. Having tried one myself, I know it's no easy task. It's a great way to visit other sites and honestly, it's funny as hell!! Thank you Dana - keep these coming. They are one of my favorite posts!!!

Jammie Time

Harvey has a great round up of bloggers in their bloggin' clothes. Some are jammies, some are not - some are just teasers, allowing us to use those delightful imaginations we have have!!

Go, check it out. I'm actually making a shopping list - some of those outfits look pretty damn comfortable.

BTW - Harvey? WOW! Thanks for that picture Dude. It did this girl's heart good. Can't WAIT for the next one!!!

Finding What's Lost

Eric over at Straight White Guy really got me thinking this morning. He has a wonderful post up about his day yesterday, up in the mountains, with friends, making music. It's obvious if you read Eric's writing that he truly loves music, and he had the opportunity yesterday to hear a tune that he had created have words added to it and actually sung. What a wonderful gift. What a wonderful talent.

I've often mentioned that I also love music. Throughout my teen years, my entire life was music. I started out singing in public when I was 10 and by 13 was performing the local revival circuit in the Midwest. I stated playing the piano when I was 7. It was never something I loved, but I did enjoy being able to take the melodies in my head and hear them. In Jr. High I started playing the clarinet. But it wasn't enough, so I taught myself the sax and oboe. In High School I took every music theory class I could, and sang in both the Concert Choir and the Chamber Choir which traveled across the Midwest performing Broadway tunes, jazz and pop. I continued with the band, eventually ending up playing 13 instruments - including the piano - well enough that I could go to state contests and place very well. And throughout that I continued to sing every chance I got. I auditioined for an internationl group and made it for both voice and instrument. I took voice and piano lessons a couple of times every week along with tutoring for several instruments.

I received a full scholarship for my voice. I was shocked. But I was grateful. I started out knowing I didn't want to be a music teacher, I needed to perform. I didn't have the patience to teach someone the finer points, the true secrets and beauty found in the music if they didn't have the love. I didn't want to even try. So I majored in performance. I studied Opera and classical performance while still singing lighter music on the local radio and in any venue I could find. But I soon realized there is no stability in that, and my practical side won out. But the music was still there. It still defined so much of who I was.

What I'm trying to say is that music is a major part of my being. It's the largest section of my soul. I hear music in my head all the time. At least I used to.

Have you ever wondered why things change? What causes those subtle shifts that eventually change the entire make up of our personas'? Not many people - outside of this blog - know that I used to be a performer. Not many people that are a part of my life know how much a part of me is reflected in my music, and visa versa. That surprises me, but when I step back and look at that fact and see the person that I present to the world, it really shouldn't.

Somewhere over the years I somehow began thinking that performing was not something a "responsible young lady" should do. It could have begun when I left the band and started working at the bank. Most of my friends worked at the bank, and the first time they were at the house and saw a picture of us in full costume they were shocked. They thought it was a joke. The picture came down shortly after. Then I started struggling with my faith. I stopped singing in churches, as I didn't want to be a hypocrite. Then I discovered Karaoke, but didn't do so well with that. I'm not a good "parrot". Trying to sing with someone else's music, in a mimicking way just didn't work for me. I became obsessed with how it came across rather than the music itself. So I stopped that also.

Next month I'm singing in my friends' wedding. I'm not nervous. Really. I love the song, and I love them, and to me this will just be an extension of that love. What does surprise me is they've asked me to do this. How did they know how much this would mean to me? We never talked about it, but somehow they picked up on that tiny part of me that still LOVES the music, and communicates best in the venue.

I've said a couple of times to use and enjoy the gifts that you have. If you don't you lose them. Open the windows of your soul and cherish those things that give you joy. If you love to draw or paint, make time for that. If it's dance that touches your heart, then dance, dance until you find that spot of heaven that you and only you know. If it's writing that affords that release than write. Write what's in you, share those thoughts, those memories. But write.

We all have gifts. Each and every one of us. And trust me when I tell you they are GIFTS. And if we ignore them or put them aside because they aren't practical or timely we only hurt ourselves. Eventually we lose sight of them, we forget that they are there. When that happens we lose sight of a part of ourselves. The best part.

It's A Girly Night

I'm thinkin' it's time for a girly night. Yeah, probably past time.

So I'm settled in with some cheese pizza (thin crust of course) a diet coke. Have a new shade of nail polish I've been wanting to try and actually going to do something I haven't in a very long time. Mess with my hair. I had been wearing it short, for a while now. Then last winter decided to try growing it out. That Was A Huge Mistake. So I cut it all off and just puttered along. When I moved I had to leave my hair dresser behind and have been on the hunt for about 4 months now. Voila, I found him. He's down the street from the house and, actually he's pretty good.

When I arrived for my visit I just flat out told him I am hair impaired. Don't know what I like, don't know what looks good - just need it easy to maintain and so that it looks good getting in and out of a car in this heat and humidity all day. He cut, I didn't pay attention and I paid and left. It's been 2 weeks now. WOW - I love it. And guess what? It's not short. And it's easy to take care of. And it doesn't look half bad. Now I just need to learn some variations on the theme.

Yep - nails, hair, good pizza and The Tuskegee Airmen. WooHoo. Doesn't sound bad to this girl at all!

A Beautiful Saturday

Tooling around Orlando today, there was just a sense of joy in the air.

I had my first training class at 9:00am and was amazed at the amount of traffic I ran into. A lot of motorcycles, convertables with the tops down, sun roofs, moon roofs, stereo's blaring. And people smiling.

All day - that's what I saw. You know why, don't you?!? It's a Saturday. No Rain. Sun Sun Sun. Hot Hot Hot. No wind, no hurricanes, no flooding.

It's a Fall Saturday in Florida and we forgot what that was like.

While I would have prefered to be on a boat or sitting by the pool, I still enjoyed just watching everyone else enjoying the hell out of the first really great weather Saturday we've seen in way to long!

Here's to many many more!! Cheers!

A Differnt Spin on the Saturday Questions

Usually I try to post some fun, out there question on Saturdays, just to give us all a bit of a break from the day to day crap we have to think about.

Well, today's question is a bit different. Let me set it up for you.....

You live alone. Your job keeps you pretty busy, at wierd hours. Plus, you work alone, out of your house - everyone on you're team is spread out across the state. You've just moved to a new area, where you really don't know anyone. Committing to a gym is out of the question - nothing nearby. You don't do "clubs" - no knitting, no embroidery, not a collector. Don't go to bars alone. Kinda shy when not working.

So...here's the question. How in the hell do you meet people and develop a circle of friends? There couldn't be any bad suggestions - just looking for ideas. OK - I will admit standing on a street corner with a sign that says "Will you be my friend?" probably won't fly, but other than that I'm open to suggestions.

What ya got?

I Got An Email - Updated

I can't swear that this is true, but I can easily believe it. I got this following email from my aunt. **UPDATE: My friend Jovi just sent me to Snopes on this - and it first surfaced in 2003 so it's not from these hurricanes. Still - check out those pictures. Yikes!!

Florida Power & Light Working At Orlando Intern'l Airport

Just another day at work in the beautiful Florida Sun!!! A Florida Power & Light crew putting in lines for an addition to the Orlando International Airport found the following in a culvert they were using...

The gator is/was 18' 2" long.
The rattlesnake roundup totaled 87.
FP&L shared these pictures.

Carnival of the Jammies

And the beat goes on................

Yes, it's time for the 2nd edition of Carnival of the Jammies. Harvey has been kind enough to remind us to get those pictures posted and linked.

Being the well behaved daughter that I am, here is my contribution.

Last week it was my day to day jammies. This week I actually found a picture of my favorite "special occasion" jammies. No, I don't wear this to blog - I would hope if I'm wearing this I got other things going on!! :)

MY President

On his way to the debates, President Bush stopped in to offer comfort and support to the victims of Charely/Frances/Jeanne. Florida Cracker has some great pictures up.

Wow - the President was just down the road from me and I was half way across the state. Let me tell you, I would have driven the 10 miles just to stand in the back of the crowd and be able to feel the virtual hug. I know many people expect him to do this, but I don't think they realize how sincere and open he comes across. I don't think a lot of people realize just how much it means that he takes the time to stop, talk, hug, and let us know he and the country are thinking of us.

I didn't lose everything. I'm in pretty good shape compared to many, and it still means the world to me that he was here. I just wish I could have seen him.

Angels Amoung Us

Yesterday was a great day!!

It's always good when you start you day off with a couple of hugs from people that really care about you! That's how I got to kick things off yesterday. Thanks again to Lee Ann and hubby (and puppy to!) for a bit of "just what the doctor ordered". I start heading north and hit the SkyWay Bridge and felt the smile. It started in my mind and curled my toes. If you have never seen the view of the Gulf of Mexico from the top of the SkyWay Bridge you are missing a slice of joy that is every bit as sweet as pie. It's a great way to start the day.

I was helping out calling on stores that I used to call on before my relocation. This are stores that I've established relationships with and just enjoy the hell out of. I get through the first store and find myself listening to the radio instead of driving in silence. Hmmm....haven't done that in a while. Then I get to the second store, walk in and hear "TAMMI!!!! OMG, we've missed you!!" and get hugs. Yeah, I know I said I don't hug my customers, but there was no stopping these guys! I audited the store and settled back to see if there were any issues or questions I could help with. The Big Wig DM was in this store and I hadn't met him. He just kept saying that he has heard so much about me, how happy he was to meet me and on and on and on. Balm to my wounded soul.

Next store - more surprise that I was there, and hugs and just general happy stuff. This went on and just got better at every store I stopped at. They started calling ahead of me, telling everyone that I was coming and everyone was just so.......positive, and smiling and happy. And this is all happening when sales suck for these people. They weren't happy because of business, they were happy because I was there. Ahhhhh.

I noticed that not only was I listening to music I was singing along. I was laughing. It's been a while since I've done that while I'm working. Hell, I even caught myself dancing to the music in a store while I was doing my audit. Yeah - I was in a very happy mood.

I got to one of my last 3 stores. It was really getting late and I still had some to do yet so I couldn't stay as long as I wanted. I head out to the car and take off. Something doesn't sound or feel right. As I was just noticing this, my cell phone rings. It was the store I had just left. Seems I had a flat tire. Not good - I can't even put air in a tire so changing one was not going to be an easy feat.

Seems I didn't need to worry about that. Two young gentlemen came to my rescue. They had stopped at the store to pick up a mattress set and saw what was happening. They came over, pulled out the donut tire and took it to put air in. They then changed my tire and told me why it was important to only drive 55 home. They were charming and so very nice. While the one guy went to fill up the donut tire, the other sat and chatted with me. We talked about football and fishing and touched on politics and agreed that our Military Rocks!! He wanted to make sure I knew NOT to let anyone try and sell me new tires. My tires were fine, I just need a patch. He didn't want anyone to take advantage of me.

Oh, and the sales manager from the store came out to help and stay with us until things got finished. THEN they guys went and loaded up the mattress set and went to deliver it. This was all at 9:00 at night. They had been moving a friend all day, but they still took the time to help me. The sales manager had just gotten power back the day before that and had a wife at home 7 months pregnant and STILL waited until I was on the road again. And They Wouldn't Take a DIME!! Not even letting me buy them a soda. Nothing. They said they just hoped that if their Mom or Sister got in the same jam, someone would help them. Pay It Forward at it's very best.

There ARE angles amoung us. There are - and I met three of them last night.

It was a very good day.

Do You Think This Color Makes Me Look Fat?

Did ya notice? Ain't it purty?

I got a little personality now. And you can SEE it!!!

Kathy, of the infamous On The Third Hand gave me a much needed make-over!!! (and it was finished in less than 24 hours!). I didn't have a clue what I wanted, I just knew I wanted some personality, something more than just dry crackers.

I think it's very Tammi'ish. We got the map of Florida on the top (very appropriate, don't ya think) and I love the water, the beach - so she added that beautiful "water blue" and then just a few details that finishes off the look - like any really good accessory does. She did all this based on an email from me saying I wanted a little personality and some color - I like the water. WOW!! I am VERY PLEASED!!!

She also took care of adding my MT Blacklist - so watch out spammers, I'm ready for you now!!

Overall I am so happy with this. I wanted my site to be a bit more reflective of me but still clean and easy to read. She gave me everything I wanted and more. AND Quickly and at a most reasonable price.

So....if you're thinking of sprucing up or want a bit of a make-over or are ready to take the plunge off of Blogspot Kathy would be the person I would have you contact. Head over to On The Third Hand, and check out what they have on the menu.

Excuse me now, I'm going back to admire my pretty home page! :) Thanks so much Kathy. I couldn't be happier.