Tammi's World: March 2005 Archives

Can't Leave You Alone for 5 Mins!!

You guys! Any excuse for a party.....See how ya are!

Yes, I made it to Mama's Monday morning. Joy oh joy - I get to make that drive 2 more times in the next 3 weeks. I am waaaaayyyyyyy to old for this.

Things are going pretty well. Just having issues trying to get on line - so patience people, patience. I'm trying - it's just a major pain in the ass.

Cody did very well on the trip. Of course, he is now a drug addict, but hey - nobody's perfect. Seriously - he finally got used to his puppy car seat and it was very nice to have the company during those long stretches with no cell service.

I want to thank everyone that called to check on me during the drive. Y'all are the BEST!! There are a couple of folks I want to 'specially thank.

Teresa (sorry - links will come tonite) YOU ARE A GODSEND! Folks - this Lady got me through the very roughest parts of the drive. You know - those wee hours of the mornin the drive. Y'all are the BEST!! There are a couple of folks I want to 'specially thank.

Teresa (sorry - links will come tonite) YOU ARE A GODSEND! Folks - this Lady got me through the very roughest parts of the drive. You know - those wee hours of the mornin the drive. Y'all are the BEST!! The

Posted by Tammi at 09:56 AM | Comments (0)

Coincidence? I think NOT!

I was checking my email the other day and find this little gem in my spam box. (Note the name that I have in bold)

wang quin

Dear Friend,

I am MR.Wang Quin,managing director of CHINA NATIONAL PEARLS DIAMOND,& GEM JEWELRY(CNPDGJ). We are a group of business men who deal on pearl,diamond gem and jewellery export into the Canada/America and Europe.We are searching for representatives who can help us establish a medium of getting to our customers in the Canada/America and Europe as well as making payments through you to us.Please if you are interested in transacting business with us we,will be glad.

Please contact us for more information, Subject to your satisfaction you will be given the opportunity to negotiate your mode of which we will pay for your services as our representative in Canada/America and Europe.

Please if you are interested please forward to us your informations below:FULL NAME,FULL CONTACT ADDRESS,PHONE,FAX.You can reach me on my Private email address anytime.
Email:wangquin017@netscape.net

Thanks In advance.
MR.Wang Quin.
Managing Director,
ADDRESS£º5th Floor,
103,Jixiangli,Chaoyangmenwai,
Beijing,China
Post Code:100020
Fax: +85 230 100 385
Email:wangquin017@netscape.net

NOW......go over here and read this post from Eric while he's watching That 1 Guys place. The alarming part is this follow up post explaining a few things. Like I said....Coincidence? Hmmmmm

Hey T1G!!! Get your ass back home and get control over things! 'Mkay?!?!

Posted by Tammi at 07:17 PM | Comments (27)

Happy Anniversary

Today is Eric and his lovely wife's 11th wedding anniversary. He links to his post from last year sharing the story of their wedding. Damn if it didn't bring a tear or two to my eyes.

Love. One of the most precious things we will ever have in this life. A gift, a treasure. Something to be cherished and nurtured. The one thing that humans crave, need search for and often miss.

But to read of this union, this partnership....ahhh that is inspiration. It's beautiful and I thank you, Eric, for sharing.

Happy Anniversary.

Posted by Tammi at 09:59 AM | Comments (1)

That's a Team!

I found this story found via Assumption of Command.

That Sergeant Major knows the meaning of Team!!!

Thanks Mustang 23

Posted by Tammi at 08:55 AM | Comments (0)

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 Easter. What is your favorite memory or tradition about this holiday weekend? I realize that Easter is a Christian holiday but it's like Christmas - it's become a part of our society. Seems like everyone joins in one way or another.

I have no tradition anymore regarding Easter. Haven't for the past 10 years. But ohhhh do I have memories.

My favorite memory is from when I was 9 years old. Maybe it's so special because that was the last Easter with Daddy - either way it's one of those warm fuzzys I cherish.

The week between Palm Sunday and Easter we went shopping. Clothes shopping. Remember back when everyone got a pretty, new outfit for Easter? I was a clothes horse even then. I wanted something pretty and light and the skirt HAD to swirl out and swish when I walked.

We were on our 4th store and Mama was running out of patience when I saw IT. Oh. My. Goodness. It was everything I wanted and more. A very pretty peach color, long skirt that swirled out as I twirled. I could feel the hem swish against my legs as I walked. I felt so grown-up. So pretty. And then...Mama let me pick out shoes and a purse to go with it. WOW. That hardly ever happened. And then, of course I had to have gloves. No properly attired young lady didn't have gloves to go with her dress. For cryin' out loud.

I was in heaven. I couldn't wait to get home and show Daddy my treasure. I even passed up ice cream so that I could get home and model it for him.

We get to the house and bull dog Tammi rushes into her room stripping as she charges through the house. Not listening to a thing anyone was saying.

I get all gussied up, even combed my hair so he would get the full effect, and went looking for my Daddy. I found him out in the garage, working on the lawn tractor. I rush into the garage stall he's in, again not listening to anything, and proceeded to slip on an oil spot and fall on my ass. Oh, I braced myself with my hands as I fell, so I didn't hurt myself. BUT...the damage was done.

Oil. Black, slimey oil. All over the seat of my skirt. My gloves. The bottom of my shoes. Everywhere.

I sat there stunned. Then the tears started to well. Daddy couldn't help it. He was laughing. I suppose my face was telling one hell of a story.

Damn....my beautiful Easter outfit - ruined. And there was no time to shop for another. Plus nothing would be the same - no dress could compare.

I slump back into the house to get the lecture from Mama. I knew I was gonna get it. I should have paid more attention. Surprisingly enough she just told me to go get out of it and put it in the "special spot" for really dirty clothes.

Easter morning dawns early at our house. There is sunrise service, breakfast at church and then the Main Event. It was still dark out when Mama came to get me. I meandered out to the living room where everyone was waiting for me so we could do our egg hunt.

There on the couch was a box. A big box. Dawn (my sister) was prancing around saying.....Its for you. Open it! Open it!

It was my dress. And my shoes. And my gloves. AND a pretty new hat!! Somehow, Mama had found the time (and the money) to go and get me an exact duplicate of that outfit. To this day I don't know how, we weren't rolling in money and she was a very busy lady. But I know there could not have been a happier little girl that Easter Sunday.

So tell me - what is your favorite memory of Easter Weekend?

Posted by Tammi at 08:33 AM | Comments (6) | TrackBack

Just To Remind You

It may be a couple of days before you hear from me again.

I'm getting ready for my LAST public workshop!! WooHoo. I've had 7 of these in the past week and a half. This is something that is advertised by the store in the local media. They say an "expert" (that would be me) will be in the store from x to y to answer any and all questions and to assist in selecting a mattress.

The very first one went fantastic. I had more people than I could handle. It was a blast.

Since then....2 people - on a good day. Last night....amidst thunder storms, tornadoes and rush hour traffic I had a workshop. No one. Not one person showed up. On Tuesday - again, no one. That one was especially tough as it was a 3 hour drive each way for me.

Well, today is it. All Done. I love this client, but I'll be so glad to be done with these.

Anyway - then it's back home and prepping the car. I've got new tires and had an oil change. I just need to get the trash out (I think the car is going out and getting soda's and fast food while I'm sleeping.....surely those aren't all my cups and bags!) I need to pack up the trunk and get all of Cody's stuff together.

My goal is to be on the road by 6:00pm. I should be able to do this no problem. If we can hit Atlanta by midnight I'm golden.

Tomorrow's plan is to be on the road by 7:00am. That would get me to Mama's by 7:00 tomorrow night.

As you can see, not a lot of time there for blogging.

So....you all have a great Easter Holiday. Any of you family members that want to chit chat, call the cell. I'll be mobile by 6:00pm and will welcome the distraction!!!!

Posted by Tammi at 07:49 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

Happy Easter!

Since I have to work in the morning, pack the car in the afternoon and then will be driving until Sunday evening....I thought I'd post a little Easter Card from Me to You!!!!

Posted by Tammi at 10:37 PM | Comments (3)

HELP!!

It's Friday and I'm not ready! Holy Shit!!

I need to pack, clean out the car, actually CLEAN the car, do some stuff around the house so my head doesn't explode AND work today. I've got another very late evening - damned public work shops. They are kickin' my ass! One more after today. Only one.

But that doesn't help in getting everything ready for the trip! AND I still haven't been told if I can have the time off. That's a little nerve wracking. To say the least.

AND today is Good Friday. To me it is the holiest day of the year. I usually don't work on this day. It was always a day for thought and prayer. I guess I'll just do that while I'm driving. Heh.

OK - out the door. More appointments than I can possibly make today. No sense procrastinating.

Posted by Tammi at 10:28 AM | Comments (3)

Heh

So I was helping to close a deal on a pretty nice mattress set tonight. The guy was trying to "pull my chain". Yeah, right....like I was some kind of innocent.

Anyway - he's going on and on, using every excuse, line, pile of BS I've ever heard.

All of a sudden I grimace, grab my hip and say "Ow".

He stops talking (thank goodness) and says "You alright?"

I say: "Yeah, I must have really hurt my hip when I fell off that turnip truck last night."

Yeah - we closed the deal, he paid full pop and didn't give us any more trouble.

Heh! Sometimes it pays to be quick witted!

Posted by Tammi at 11:00 PM | Comments (4)

They Grow Up So Fast....

Damn, innocence leaves when they are still so young.

Cody has begun the big "hump".

I caught him tonight humping his bunny.

Damn......do they make puppy condoms??

Posted by Tammi at 10:51 PM | Comments (3)

You know the old joke...

How to keep a dummy in suspense...................................
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Yeah, well my onry blogsister Bou is playin' that little trick on us. Heh.

It starts here, and continues here - be sure and read the comments....that is where the REAL evil comes out......

She's say's she'll reveal all tonite....but damn. I don't want to wait....

Posted by Tammi at 10:58 AM | Comments (3)

Victim #2 - Questions for You!!

Teresa!! It's your turn!!

1) You recently celebrated your 26th wedding anniversary. What do you think the secret to your happy marriage is?

2) You are an early member of the Bad Example Family - how in the world did you start reading Harvey's site? (I found him via you!)

3) OK - you and I are planning a weekend day doing what ever - it's all about you!! We have access to a private jet and only 6 hours - where do we go? What do we do? Where the heck are we having lunch?

4) What is the most fun you've ever had? The time you smiled and laughed so much your face hurt.

5) You love shoes as much as I do......tell me about your favorite pair. Why do you like them so much?

OK - Teresa will post the answers at her place and I'll link 'em here!!

NEXT VICTIM will be Pammy over at Lollygaggin. I'll post those here tomorrow!!!

Posted by Tammi at 08:10 AM | Comments (4) | TrackBack

Buckle Up

It's about to get very busy. At least in Tammi's World!

Today is Thursday. Yeow!! Where did the week go???

I've stated that Cody and I are heading to Indiana this weekend. Yep. I have a workshop Saturday from 10-2 and then I will come home, feed Cody, pack his stuff, play with him and give him drugs. Hoping to get out of here by 6:00pm.

If I can just get to Atlanta for the first night I'll be happy. From Atlanta to Mama's it's 12 hours. T.W.E.L.V.E. H.O.U.R.S.

Then......I'm turnin' around and coming back on Thursday. I may never walk again. My hips will never be the same.

There is laundry to be done and packed. Stores to be covered, workshops to be taught, reports to be run and analyzed. Oh, and somewhere in there I'm hoping to get just a little bit of sleep.

So if I seem a bit scattered it's because I've got just a couple things going on right now.

Posted by Tammi at 07:38 AM | Comments (6)

I Wasn't Gonna Do It

...but this article touched a nerve.

And yes - this post will be somewhat about Terri Schiavo. But only in part. I'm not going to address the legal battle being waged across the globe. I'm not going to weigh in on what I think about the situtation. There is enough being said about that.

What I want to talk about is what they are saying is the cause of her initial collapse.

It is believed that Terri suffered with an eating disorder. Bulimia, binge-and-purge, is a dangerous, dangerous thing. And it does lead to heart failure.

So many children, both boys and girls, suffer in one way or another with bad self images tied to their weight. And it is tragic.

I know of what I speak. I had grown up thin. Painfully thin. Add being overly tall for my age and it was.....awkward to say the least. But I ate what ever I wanted, whenever I wanted so that kinda made up for it.

Being so thin, I was a "late bloomer". It wasn't until my Sophomore year in high school that I really started to curve out. In other words, I got hips. I freaked out. I became so tormented about the change I didn't know what to think. To add insult to injury one evening some friends and I were out dancing and she said to me...."Your ass shakes like jello when you dance." HOLY SHIT!!

So I stopped eating. I lived on OJ and chicken broth. I lost all those curves and felt more like myself. Then Mama started noticing what I was doing and made me eat.

OK - there's more than one way to skin a cat. So I'd eat. Then for dessert I'd take a box of Exlax. Oh yea - that was fun.

This practice continued 3 years into my marriage. The only reason I stopped then is we couldn't afford my exlax and I wasn't about to make myself vomit.

But the damage had been done. And I still pay for those mistakes.

My 14 year old niece is obsessed with her weight. I'm afraid she is following in the footsteps of her mother and her aunt. I'm gonna have to be talking to her about that.

But tell me......with all the talk going on this is the perfect opportunity for the MSM to reach out to those with eating disorders. But have they? No. This is the first that I've heard of this tie-in.

That's a shame. There are several lessons to be learned through the tragedy of what is happening with Terry Schiavo. Above and beyond living wills and feeding tubes.

I think this quote from the above linked USA Today article sums it up perfectly:

"Paint me a picture of an eating disorder — it's an emaciated woman,"[Psychologist Doug Bunnell] said. "But that's not the reality. They don't get down that low. The face of eating disorders is your next-door neighbor's daughter or maybe your own."

Hat Tip ALa - Blonde Sagacity

Posted by Tammi at 07:22 PM | Comments (2)

Just off the top of my head..

What is up with all these women sending love notes to Scott Peterson?

And before you start with the whole psyco babble, I'm well aware of what the "experts" say about this. I'm just ranting here......

STOP IT! He's a flippin' convicted murderer and a liar! STOP IT RIGHT NOW!

Where the hell is your dignity? Your pride?

I understand lonely. Hell - I think I invented it. BUT......a girls got standards. I cannot imagine watching the whole horrible story unfold - and you couldn't miss it if you were on this planet for the past few years - and still finding one damn thing attractive about this guy. He's slime. He's worse than slime.

I don't get it. I never will. I cannot imagine convincing myself that I could "change" that monster. That I would be "good for him". F*ck that. He doesn't deserve a decent woman. Hell....he doesn't even deserve a decent man!!

This quote from the article linked above just made my skin crawl. "They especially like wife-killers," he said. "It adds to the thrill." The THRILL? The THRILL?!?!?!

Sick. Sick. Sick.

Get a grip ladies. You might as well buy some batteries and put on the Bobby Sherman 45's. You'll have a better chance at happiness.

Posted by Tammi at 01:28 PM | Comments (3)

Talking

I've always been a talker (I prefer communicator). The thing I remember being told over and over again while growing up was: Tammi, please shut up. Yeah - I've never NOT spoke what was on my mind.

And it's a well known fact that I talk on the phone. Hell I live with my hands free set on. I have 5000 mins. on my cell package and yes - I have exceeded them. Several times.

That all being said - can I tell you I hate it. Talking that is. Yeah - imagine that.

I noticed that I talk waaaaayyyyy too much when I'm nervous. It's not so much talking as entertaining. But still, either way, I do too damn much of it.

And on the phone? I talk and talk and talk and talk. When I hang up I'm always ticked off at myself. And I finally understand why.

It's not personal. Oh - it's much better than email, but it's still not real. T1G touched on it in this post - where coincidentally he was talking on the phone to ME! This is the kicker for me: Without the phone in hand, it felt like a regular conversation. So I was going nuts because there was no eye contact. It just felt strange.

I talk so much on the phone because I can't SEE you when I talk to you. I can't see the flinch when I say something wrong. I can't see the twinkle in your eye when I tickled your funny bone. But rather than slow down or shut up...I talk more. Talk about a bull in a china shop!

Hell, to be completely honest I don't even like crowds. Oh, no one really notices - I'm just so damned entertaining.

But my favorite way to communicate is one on one. Where I can see you smile, watch your eyes. See the humor on your face.

AND...to be even more shocking......I like to be quiet. Yeah. How 'bout that! I enjoy the silence. Or even just music while sitting around reading. My best friend and I often just sit at her house, both with a book and music going in the background. We may only say 10 words in an entire evening. And if you ask us later - we had a wonderful time bonding.

I'm so tired of talking. Oh - that doesn't mean you're safe from the Tammi Calls. Hell no - if I have to choose between no communication and talking on the phone, I'm all about the phone.

But damn.........

Posted by Tammi at 11:53 AM | Comments (8)

Cody vs. The Doctor

Well, today was the first follow up visit with the doctor for Cody.

He was just barely 4 lbs 3 weeks ago. He's at a little over 7 now. I KNEW he grew! But holy cow!

We had our first thunderstorm this morning. He was fine with the thunder and lightening, wind and noise. That surprised me. HOWEVER, he did not like actually going out in it. Yeah - pretty good case of stage fright.

He is such a little shit. We get to the doctor and he is just all lovey and sweet. I told the girls I don't know what they gave him last time we were there, but 1 hour after leaving their office he went from a sweet snuggly puppy to the spawn of satan. They thought I was kidding. Heh.

I also got some sedatives. You see we are going to have to drive to Indiana this weekend. Gotta check on Mama and am taking him with me. He. Does. Not. Like. The. Car. Nope, not one little bit. And I honestly don't think I can drive 21 hours in a car with him yipping, crying and well just being very unhappy. Let's keep our fingers crossed.

So...he's healthy. Very healthy. They say he is well adjusted. Huh. Guess he hasn't really picked up any of my personality traits yet. :-)

Posted by Tammi at 09:05 AM | Comments (2)

Victim 1 Responds

TNT has posted her answers to my questions! WooHoo. :-) And yes, there is some dirt. Thanks TNT!!

Next will be Teresa! The questions will be posted tonight.

Posted by Tammi at 07:08 AM | Comments (1)

A Blogger, No a FRIEND, Needs our Support

The beauty of blogging is the friendships that are established. I have a friend - BloodSpite - that means a lot to me. He was one of the very first commentors at my blogspot site and we've become close friends over the past year.

He has a post up that breaks my heart. His mother may be ill. Very ill.

Please go and let him know that no matter how dark it gets, no matter how hard times are.....there are those of us there care. That he and his family are not in this alone.

BS - Dude - you have my prayers.

Posted by Tammi at 12:06 AM | Comments (6) | TrackBack

He is NOT a Victim

I'm just pissed. Currently on Fox they are talking about the shooting at the school in MN. They keep talking about the fact that the kid that shot his grandfather, his grandfathers girlfriend/wife and several of his classmates gave all sorts of external signals. They are focusing on his appearance. Dressing in GOTH and was teased a lot. They keep talking about how he was "persecuted" for being so tall.

OK let's just think about this for a moment.

Bullshit. I call bullshit.

There was just something NOT RIGHT with this kid. Period.

Dressing in Goth is just a personal choice, and usually just a cry of rebellion or a desire for attention.

And this shit that being teased for being different was a factor in his stability. Again - BULLSHIT!!

I was 6' at 13. Talk about different!! I was a reader, and as shy as the day is long through most of school. A day didn't got by that I wasn't called a "Freak" - to this day there is a girl that I knew back then that still refers to me that way - and it ain't meant to be nice.

I can say I've never shot anyone. Ever. I've never had thoughts of murder. I've never even planned revenge - ok other than showing up at my reunion and being proud of who I am now. Well that and "forgetting" to give my exhusband back the keys to his brand new truck. (didn't do anything, but damn was he worried.)

This kid had deep issues. He lost his father at an early age - hmmm...me too. His mother was involved in a serious accident that left her completely disabled (from what I understand) - that I can't relate to. I hate to hear when someone loses someone they love and need. HOWEVER...that doesn't mean they will turn into mass murderers.

This Kid Had Issues. It's too late to fix them now. But for goodness sake, DO NOT TURN HIM INTO A VICTIM!!!

Damn - I hate when the press does that.

My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families.

This is all I have to say on this matter.

Posted by Tammi at 09:49 AM | Comments (6)

What's Goin' Through My Mind

I'm searching and trying to find something to blog on. Oh, there are so many things going on - Terri Schiavo, John Couey, the Shooting at a school in Minnesota. But every time I start to really write about any of those I find myself over whelmed. Absolutely over whelmed.

So I figure I'll just do give you a glimpse inside my mind. One of those random thought types of posts.....

* I have a work shop tonite in Sarasota. 7-9pm. That means yet another evening of getting home after midnight. I'm tired. Last night it was after 8:30pm before I walked in the door. Did I mention I'm tired.

* Cody is doing fairly well with the housebreaking. He whines or yips if he has to go out. Usually. We're still working on it, damn those small bladders anyway. But overall - I'm very proud of the progress he's making.

* Mama is still having issues. I get many many calls a day from up there. It really messes with my focus - trying to help from here is very difficult (not to mention frustrating).

* I'm angry with my sister right now. 'Nuff said

* I had ice cream last night. To hell with the diet. I needed chocolate, carmel, pecans, and ice cream. I got it and it was damned good.

* Did I mention I'm tired? Well, I am.

* I won't have an Easter basket this year....damn - I love carmel eggs.

* The price of gas is going to put me into the poor house.

* I love March in Florida. It was in the 70's yesterday and just wonderful. HOWEVER.....the humidity is coming.

* My new perfume seems to be "Ode de Puppy" these days.

* I missed a call from my best friend last night. Wonder why she didn't call my cell.....

* Tide has a new "Coldwater" detergent. Hmmm...gonna have to try that.

Ok - it's now time to get to work. Damn....did I mention I'm really tired?

Posted by Tammi at 09:00 AM | Comments (5)

THIS is more like it...

I had left a comment over at A Cool Change regarding the Jessica Lunsford case. Actually it was more in response to what in the hell has this world come to.

Doyle posts Jessica's Petition. This would be a Child Protection Amendment to Florida State Law.

Now....understand this right here. I doubt Florida will pass it. I wish to GOD they would. I think it makes sense. I think it's the right thing.

But please - go and read it. As Doyle says, it's not a solution, but it may be a start.

Posted by Tammi at 07:53 AM | Comments (0)

How Ironic

I just past my 25,000 visitor to THIS site! Thank you Thank you Thank you!

And guess who it was! Teresa! My BlogSister!

Now - THAT'S Ironic. Especially since we were either still on the phone or had just finished talking.

Thanks Sis - leave it to you to put me over the top!!

Posted by Tammi at 10:41 PM | Comments (1)

It's All About the Family

Folks - VW - a dear member of the Bad Example Family and a FRIEND needs our help.

Her youngest son has been admitted into the hospital. Bou is posting on it, and asks that we stop by VW's site and leave good thoughts.

Not only is the baby sick, but so is the Mama. Folks - prayers and good thoughts are needed here. There is nothing worse than when you're baby is hurting.

Love ya VW.......wish I were closer and could help.

Posted by Tammi at 09:26 PM | Comments (0)

I AM EVIL!!

Over at A Securlar Fransiscan, Randy has a link to a site that helps to develop your evil plan to do what ever it is that is evil that you want to do.

I did it. I think I have a darn good plan. Wanna see? It's in the extended entry.

Evil Plan (tm)!

Your objective is simple: World Domination.

Your motive is a little bit more complex: Power

Stage One
To begin your plan, you must first seduce a military general. This will cause the world to sit up and take notice, stunned by your arrival. Who is this criminal mastermind? Where did they come from? And why do they look so good in a corporate suit?

Stage Two
Next, you must seize control of the Eiffel Tower. This will all be done from a medieval castle, a mysterious place of unrivaled dark glory. Upon seeing this, the world will fall into catatonic trances, as countless hordes of corporate suits hasten to do your every bidding.

Stage Three
Finally, you must unleash your time machine, bringing about an end to sanity. Your name shall become synonymous with dear god no, and no man will ever again dare roll his or her eyes. Everyone will bow before your extraordinary charisma, and the world will have no choice but to make you their new god.

Posted by Tammi at 11:29 AM | Comments (5) | TrackBack

Training Pays Off

I love stopping over and reading what is going on over at When you call me, call me Al's place. That guy has the best sense of humor....plus - he's a pilot. I get my pilot talk fix.

This post shows in no uncertain terms, how important training is. And just how scary things can get - no matter where you're stationed.

Whew...had me on the edge of my seat.

Posted by Tammi at 11:15 AM | Comments (1)

Everybody's Talkin' About It

The steroid/baseball issue.

Here's my thoughts.

Federal government - stay the hell out of it.

BUT...I do think that if the players were using steroids or "performance enhancing drugs" (other than the little blue pill) they should have their records removed. Stripped. If you had to use artifical means to break a record that is cheating....at least from where I come from.

Will we ever know who what when? No. No we won't. And honestly - I think investigating it at this stage of the game is pointless. But hey - a girl has to take a stand somewhere.

BUT.....I do believe the leagues (football, baseball, hockey, basketball) should police themselves. Come on folks! What ever happened to taking pride in what you accomplish.....By Your Own Skills and HARD WORK?!?!?

That is what is the most disappointing to me. They cheated me. And, for the most part, they don't regret it one bit. Many think it is alright.

Anyway - that's what I think. I'm just disappointed. Disappointed that the government thinks they should get involved, disappointed that it's even an issue.

Posted by Tammi at 09:36 AM | Comments (3)

Book Review

Yes, with everything going on, thanks to another bout of insomnia I have actually read a book. And, even though I'm sure many of you have already read it......I have to talk about this one. Don't worry - NO SPOILER HERE.

Angles & Demons by Dan Brown (the author of The Da Vinci Code). While it's not a prelude to The Da Vinci Code, it does introduce the main character.

First - this is a book of fiction. And that is exactly how I read it. Oh...there are some interesting tie ins but it's still fiction.

The beginning of the book was kinda slow going. But that's ok. It just had a lot of ground work to lay. The middle rocked. Fast paced, lots of intrique. And about 100 pages before the book ended - what a great finish! WooHoo. But you'll notice I said that occured about 100 pages BEFORE the book actually ended. Those last 100 pages were frustrating, long, and redundant. I caught myself thinking....Come on, enough already - just turn out the light and say good night. I finished it only because I started it. I will NOT be defeated by a damned book.

I was very dissapointed. HOWEVER....I'm still going to read The Da Vinci Code, even though I have been told that it suffers from the same issues that this one did.

Damn, I just hate it when I am let down by a book.

Posted by Tammi at 08:24 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack

My First Victim

OK - Bou posted my answers to her five questions. Not too difficult. AND the best part....nothing that will leave a mark! ;-)

So.....I got my five volunteers (heh heh heh). Here are the the questions I have for TNT - aka Harvey's Beloved Wife.

1) Being as aware as you are of eating healthy and taking care of yourself.....what is your favorite UNHEALTHY indulgence and why?

2) What is the one activity that you enjoy above all else?

3) Close your eyes. Imagine your life 5 years from now. You are content, you are happy. It is everything you ever wanted. Now....describe it.

4) What is the silliest thing you've ever done?

5) What is your favorite joke?

Ok - TNT will post her answers over at her site and I will cross link it here.

**this was tough!! It was much easier answering than asking**

Posted by Tammi at 07:30 AM | Comments (0)

How I Entertain Myself

So....now I have a puppy. Heh. That in itself is entertaining.

But....I've found a new game. It's called Drive Cody Crazy!!

I take his soft, furry, squeaky squirrel and put it by the sliding glass doors. Then I step on it and make it squeak. While he's getting that, I take his soft, furry squeaky rabbit and put it across the room. Then I make that squeak. Immediately he rushes across the room to get that baby. While he's entertaining himself there I take his soft growly toy, Put it in the middle and roll that around making it growl. Here he comes!!

Then I just run around the room until one of us collapses. (usually me first). Until he out smarted me. After about 15 mins of this smarty pants Cody realized that he can bring the squirrel to the rabbit and get them both at the same time. Then....when the growly toy started in, he ran over there and drug that over to the other two. Then he spreads himself over all three toys and starts growling at me.........

I think I'm in trouble. My dog is smarter than I am.

Posted by Tammi at 11:39 PM | Comments (3)

He's In Court

Couey is in court Right This Minute.

The have appointed a public defender for him.

He is being charged with not obeying FL law regarding sex offenders and is being held without bond. He is also charged with violation of probabtion.

I'm no lawyer but why can't they charge him with the kidnapping and murder of Jessica? Why? He confessed. I don't understand. But it's not for me to understand. I just don't want anything to get messed up in his case. I want him to be prosecuted. I want that MFer to pay. With. His. Life.

There is no way he can experience the pain and fear that he has given to others. No. Way. But deep inside, I want him to. I want him to know what his victims felt, saw, thought. Then I want him to hurt more. I want pain to be his last feeling, his last thought.

I feel no mercy for this man. None. I am forgiving of much. Understand of situations - but this, this goes beyond any thought of forgiveness, any feeling of understanding.

I only hope this is not drug out for a long period of time. For the family's sake. Let them find their peace as best they can without it all being flung back in their faces.

Posted by Tammi at 09:03 AM | Comments (4)

Spring

Spring has officially sprung. Winter is over - so they say. We'll just see.

It's also Palm Sunday. The day Christians celebrate the entrance of Jesus into the city of Jerusalem. The beginning of Holy Week. I wish I could go to church this morning....I always did enjoy Palm Sunday services. But - I gotta work.

Spring has never been my favorite season - well, let me rephrase that. It was never my favorite season before I moved to Florida. In Florida the weather is almost PERFECT during Spring. Mid 70's in the day, 50's at night. Oh, there is some rain, but usually it's just blue sky and sunshine.

Up north? Yeah, well let me just say they are expecting snow in the NorthEast today. Ugh. And the rain, the mud. You know the saying....April Showers bring May Flowers. Well, the last few years I lived up there it was still SNOWING in April. Spring? Yeah Right.

And cabin fever. Big Time. Heck, with the winter we've had down here I've got a strong case of it. I have had a couple of Sunday afternoons that I could sit out in the sun and just soak it all up. The warmth in my bones. The tingle on my skin. I love the sun.

The good thing is I can start getting tulips for my house. I never liked tulips much until a couple of years ago. I found the most beautiful purple tulips, they are only available once a year and for a short time, but I fill every vase I have with them. Just add a shot of vodka in with the water and they stand up nice and straight and last a very long time. (hmm....strange, wish vodka had the response in more than just tulips) ;-)

So Happy Spring. It's a time for new beginnings, a time of rebirth. I'm looking forward to it.

Posted by Tammi at 08:12 AM | Comments (2)

I Got Five

I have my five victims, uh I mean volunteers. TNT, Army Wife, Teresa, Pammy and Sally.

WooHoo. I'll be posting your questions each day - starting with TNT tomorrow. Then you answer at your blog and I'll link away. Hmmm...thinking thinking thinking. THIS should be fun!!

Posted by Tammi at 07:33 AM | Comments (4)

Damned Dog

**mutter mutter mutter**

I've finally figured it out. My dog loves the smell of my cleaning supplies. The reason he is peeing on the tile is because he wants me to clean. Well....that's not gonna happen. Not right now anyway! Damned Dog.

Oh, and I wish you could have seen what just happened. I was watching a video on the laptop, he was lying in my lap as I blog. The video starts and he flips out. Sitting up on his hind legs watching the video and trying to figure out where the sound is coming from. Then....he moves over to my side and is checking out the back of the laptop and rolls right off the couch. Gets back up and does it again....3x. Then got mad at me. Damned Dog.

He is very funny.

Posted by Tammi at 08:12 PM | Comments (1)

Why?

As you know I am a huge fan, supporter, believer what ever you want to call it....I am behind our Military Men and Women 110%. I've never wondered why they serve, just always been grateful that they do.

But if the thought has ever crossed your mind...here is the most beautiful, the most stirring account of WHY that I have ever been privy to.

Thunder6 - All I can say is Thank You. Thank God for men and women like you.

Posted by Tammi at 06:58 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

Tissue Alert

Imagine. Just imagine.

You husband leaves to go into harms way. You are alone...for a long time. You have a baby, and a toddler and you have to keep going. You miss your husband. And then he comes home.

I cannot imagine. I just can't. But Army Wife gives us a glimpse. A peek into her soul.

Go and read it. But I'm warning you - if you get to the bottom with a dry eye, there is something wrong.

Posted by Tammi at 06:33 PM | Comments (1)

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:

OK - we've all dated. And we've all had that "perfect date". Tell me about it.

Mine? Actually those that know me would say what made it so perfect was that I planned the whole thing, but that's not true.....at least I don't think so.....

I had met a guy that really "struck my fancy". We hit it off very well, and had enjoyed a couple of great evenings together. It was coming up on his birthday. His 40th birthday. He and his friends had celebrated early for a couple of reasons. 1) they took a weekend away and 2) this particular birthday was Sept. 11, 2002. He used to work in the Pentagon and had lost several friends that horrific day one year earlier.

SO anyway (really this is a good, happy memory) I sent him an invitation for dinner on his birthday. I let him choose - Steak, Italian or Sushi - knowing he would choose the steak.

I made arrangements at Bern's Steak House the BEST steak house in Tampa. I told them what the occasion was but that I didn't want a big fuss, just make it extra special.

Then I bought a new dress. It was very reminisent of the dinner dresses of the 40's and 50's. Just a simple sleeveless sheath, fitted and above the knees. But what made it extra special was the color. Cream with bright flowers. Something I would never wear, but it was PERFECT. I was working in Sarasota at the time, so I took off early from work. Actually got dressed at the office - Lee Ann wasn't going to let me leave without seeing me in that dress first.

THEN - I went and actually had my hair styled. I have trouble making my hair do what I want - it's called being Hair Impaired - and I wanted everything perfect. And she did a great job!

Put on my makeup and off I went.

Traffic was on my side. Then I get almost to the resturant and he called. UhOh. He wasn't feeling well. Son of a Bitch. BUT....he was still going to be there, just about 15 mins. late. Whew.

I get to the resturant, called my best friend to let her know I made it and get encouragment. Then I waited.

When he arrived he stopped right inside the door of the lobby. Let's just say all the extra effort was well appreciated. ;-) Yeah - it was gonna be a good night.

We got seated, and ordered drinks. Conversation was premium, drinks are flowing, atmosphere - perfect.

Dinner arrived and it was fabulous. Conversation still flowing, lots of laughter. Went to the "dessert area". (A seperate building) for some great sweets and coffee or after dinner drink.

Believe it or not.....at the end of the evening he went to his home, and I made the drive back to Bradenton. But it was a PERFECT evening. I wouldn't change a thing.

So what about you - tell me about you're PERFECT DATE!!!

Posted by Tammi at 07:58 AM | Comments (7) | TrackBack

And The Answers Are......

Bou has posted my answers to her five questions. Gotta tell you folks, I was a little nervous about what she would ask. As she says on her site, we've become very good friends, and talk almost daily. That's a whole lotta Tammi Dirt she has! Not that I thought she'd be mean, but let me tell you folks - she can be a bit....hmmm onery. Yeah, that's the word. Surprised? Heh, then you don't read her blog near enough.

Anyway - I'm kinda bending the rules here a bit and simply linking to her post rather than cross posting. BUT......the first 5 people to leave comments HERE get a dose of Tammi's Curiosity.

At least she said Tammi in Five Questions......and not Five EASY Questions. I'm a lot of things, but easy ain't one of 'em. ;-)

Posted by Tammi at 07:03 AM | Comments (8)

He Confessed

Jessica Marie Lunsford is gone. Kidnapped. Sexually Assalted. Murdered.

She was only 9 years old.

Look at her. Look at that smile. She was 9 years old.

God Rest Her Soul and be with her family during this terrible time. I cannot imagine what they are going through.

The bastard - that Person of Interest - that did this is on suicide watch up in Georgia right now. He confessed. He admitted what he did. They are looking for her body.

I don't care how it happens, but he needs to die. And it needs to be slow and painful. And Soon.

Don't F*ck With The Babies.

Posted by Tammi at 11:05 PM | Comments (9)

I couldn't resist....

Saw this over at Contagion and just had to see how I did...

Not bad for a girl. Not bad at all!

Bourbon
Congratulations! You're 120 proof, with specific scores in beer (120) , wine (83), and liquor (78).

Screw all that namby-pamby chick stuff, you're going straight for the bottle and a shot glass! It'll take more than a few shots of Wild Turkey or 99 Bananas before you start seeing pink elephants. You know how to handle your alcohol, and yourself at parties.

My test tracked 4 variables How you compared to other people your age and gender:

You scored higher than 65% on proof

You scored higher than 97% on beer index

You scored higher than 95% on wine index

You scored higher than 90% on liquor index

Link: The Alcohol Knowledge Test written by hoppersplit on Ok Cupid

Posted by Tammi at 10:14 AM | Comments (9) | TrackBack

Just Wanted To Let You Know

Mama's having problems. Yeah....kinda tough right now.

So between work and worry I'm a little distracted. Sure could use some prayers and good thoughts. They are greatly appreciated.

I'll have more information later this week.

Posted by Tammi at 09:52 AM | Comments (9)

I Know - I'm Late

I missed posting on my BlogSister, Teresa's 26th Wedding anniversary.

I did, however, get to talk to her - so she knew I was thinking of her.

But Teresa, I wanted to get you and Beloved Husband a little sumpin sumpin to celebrate with.

So here you go darlin'!!

teresa anniversary.jpg

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!!

Posted by Tammi at 09:03 AM | Comments (4)

Just so you know...

Last night Bou posted the 5 questions for me to answer in the spirit of that Question Meme that has been going around. My answers will be posted tonite. I'll be linking to it here.

Now listen folks - this is the way it's supposed to work. The first 5 people that respond to that post I GET TO ASK 5 Questions! Yep.......so prepare yourself. I'm a very curious lady. ;-)

Don't leave me hanging here...'mkay?!?!

Posted by Tammi at 08:51 AM | Comments (0)

THAT explains it!

Dash is a very bright guy! He has figured out HOW WE CAME TO HAVE AN OIL SHORTAGE!

Duh! It all makes sense now.

Good One Dash!

Posted by Tammi at 08:05 AM | Comments (1)

Person of Interest?

Authorities have detained a person of interest in the search for Jessica Lunsford, the 9 year old girl that has been missing from a small town just north of Tampa since late February.

I hate that we still have not found this little girl. I hate that this has happened again. I've said it over and over again.....don't f*ck with the babies.

Yeah - this guy is a "person of interest". Get his ass back here to Florida and get some answers.

Posted by Tammi at 07:54 AM | Comments (1)

It's A BIG Day!

Today is Marji's 2nd Blogiversary!

WooHoo Marji! Congratulations.

Heh - the Seinfield of the blogsphere....that's good.

Here's to many more!!!

Posted by Tammi at 07:03 AM | Comments (0)

There's No Place Like Home

Free at Last! Free at Last!

I'm back in Florida! Yeah - although it's kinda tough to tell, what with all the rain and cold right now....damn!! But...I made it as far as Tampa last night - despite the storms. Today I'm in Sarasota, gathering Cody's belonging and getting some work done on my car at my favorite mechanic.

In case you didn't know....Lee Ann's husband, Dogger, is out of the hospital. He was released yesterday and he is staying in an apartment near the hospital. I stayed with them last night, and picked Cody up. He looks good. Better than I expected. And just to see his smile....damn it warmed my heart.

But even more was seeing the two of them together again. I love the way that, even when on opposite sides of the room, each doing something different, you can FEEL the connection. It's incredible. And I love being a witness to it.

I'm exhausted. Spent. Done. Whipped. And I have so very much to do.

Cody is having a bit of a problem with aggression. Damn dog has Napoleon Syndrom! Can you believe my luck. I despise that in humans...so what happens. I get a damned dog that things he's a flippin Rotty! Oh, we'll be fixing that. You can take that to the bank. Won't tolerate. Nope. Not one bit.

So...anyone know a good dog trainer? ;-)

Gotta check up on what's going on in the world.

OH - and Happy St. Patty's Day!! Damn, I almost forgot! That should just go to show how distracted I am right now.

Gotta get back to Orlando and have an appletini! HEY - what's so weird about that? It's green!!!

Posted by Tammi at 10:19 AM | Comments (9) | TrackBack

Quick Update

I had a great link post wrote yesterday, letting you all know I made it just fine and pointing out some cool things across the blogsphere that I thought you might not see, and I didn't want you to miss them.

But this damned wireless at the hotel is so spotty, as soon as I hit save it completely knocked me out. Lost, Gone. I felt like I was back on BlogSpot!

So....anyway - I made it fine on Monday. Yesterday was a long day of meetings and such and dinner. Today, more meetings this morning and we should be able to hit the road around Noon - just in time for the severe Thunderstorms that are moving throught. Never. Flippin. Fails.

Just a little funny. I was Sales Person of the Month for my region in February. That is funnier than you could ever know. Let's just say - I thought they were kidding me. But alas - it is true. Hee......

I always did appreciate the truly ironic.

Posted by Tammi at 07:53 AM | Comments (9)

Just Do It

READ THIS.

Then I dare you not to:

1) Laugh your ass off

2) Cheer

Thanks Sgt. B.

That was exactly what I needed this morning!

Posted by Tammi at 09:54 AM | Comments (4)

Being a Grown-Up

There comes a time in your life when you have to make choices that you just don't want to face. You have to step up to the plate and Do The Right Thing.

No matter what.

Because if you don't you have to live with that decision the rest of your days...and worse yet....your nights.

You can't always have the life you dreamt of. You can't always have everything the way you want it. Real Life gets in the way.

And when you come to that cross road, it's hard. It's damned hard. It's get pissed off and stomp your feet hard. It's cry in the middle of the night hard.

But you take a deep breath, square your shoulders and stop being so damned selfish. You. Do. The. Right. Thing.

Nothing is forever. Just keep that thought in mind.

Posted by Tammi at 09:02 AM | Comments (3)

A Little Advice

I know you are all probably saying to yourself - "who the hell does she think she is" when I give relationship advice. I'm not in a relationship, haven't been in a decent one in a long while, and let's face it - my marriage was a text book example of "HELL". But....that doesn't mean I don't know a thing or two.

TNT tells us how happy she was when her Beloved Husband, aka Harvey, showed up to watch her play in a local racquetball tournament. I, of course, put in my .02 worth in the comments, but wanted to kind of exand on it here.

Back in my married days, my husband and the boys were fairly active in "events". All three of my boys were big bowlers. In fact the oldest one almost went pro. He was that good. I never missed a week. I never missed a tournament. I worked full time, kept house and still was there every week. It showed them they mattered and that I cared about what they did.

My husband was always doing something (in more ways than one). He was on a softball league. He was one of the best pitchers in his age bracket for slow pitch in the state. I never missed a game. (have I ever mentioned how much I HATE baseball!). He also bowled. Every Tuesday night. I would bring my work, or a book or what ever and, yes I was there every week. He shot pool. I don't. But I was there. I did miss a couple of tournaments because they conflicted with the boys - but he understood. He shot darts. I learned how, enjoyed it and we played on a league. I was there when he shot the $1,000 dart. And won. (damn, wonder where that money went?!?)

But the point was I was there. I supported his activities. If he didn't want me there - I'd have given him his space. I did have better things to do - things I enjoyed. But....I learned by watching my parents that it's important that your "significant other" know that you support them.

So.....I've sat in freezing cold hockey rinks watching someone I care about get the crap beat out of him on the ice, I've sat on a boat for hours watching a fishing tournament. But I really can say I don't regret a minute of it. It was a simple way of saying I Love You. You matter to me. I want you to be happy.

Thus ends the Tammi's Tips on Relationships - for today. ;-)

Posted by Tammi at 08:44 AM | Comments (4)

Ah Ha!

Well, the bidding is over folks. For a quart of chocolate ice cream and a puppy (temporarily) I won!! ;-) I'm just damned glad I didn't leave my undies over here.....damn that could have turned ugly!

But it did turn out to be a pretty good day yesterday. We did discover that Cody HATES the puppy carrier. And Hates may be a very weak word for it. So, I stopped and bought him a little puppy car seat. He wasn't thrilled in the beginning but settled right in and slept for most of the ride. The only other issue is he doesn't like it at night cause he can't see what's happening. Luckily we only had to go a couple of miles.

Noooo....he's not spoiled at all. ;-)

I'm taking off in a little bit for Waycross Georgia. You know - the black hole for internet access and cell phone signals. I'm (again) pretty nervous about this, but think it will all be alright. It's just until noon on Wednesday. I can do this!

I'm sitting here, on Lee Ann's lania, in my favorite town in the whole world. Her beautiful puppy girl is sitting out here with me watching everything that is going on. Occassionally running over for a little attention, then back to watching. Cody is sleeping in his bed in the kitchen. I don't want to leave.

I want to throw on my bathing suit and head to the beach. I want to stretch out in the sand and read a good book. I want to have a fresh blackened grouper sandwich at my favorite beach bar, complete with a tall pitcher of cold draft beer. Then I want to come back here and have dinner with my friend and watch movies and laugh.

Why did I ever move away from here? Why? Oh, that's right! I needed to work. Damn - I hate being a grown up!

So this is just my way of saying if you don't see anything posted for a couple of days - don't worry. It's just life getting in the way. Oh - and I can promise, there will be NO GUEST BLOGGERS!! I can only imagine what would show up HERE!

Posted by Tammi at 08:21 AM | Comments (3)

Short Rant - then I gotta go

OK - this just jump started my temper.

A Fat Tax? A tax on hot dogs, candy and the like.

They want to charge me extra for junk food? And you too! You wanna know why? Check out this quote (emphasis):

CSPI's food scolds didn't respond to the Administration's "personal responsibility" charge -- and for good reason. They genuinely don't believe average people are capable of making their own food decisions. CSPI's Margo Wootan recently declared: "We have got to move beyond personal responsibility." Twinkie-tax inventor (and CSPI scientific advisory board member) Kelly "Big Brother" Brownell also wants to "get away from these arguments about personal responsibility."

OK - I put up with the taxes on my cigarettes, and the fact that I can only smoke in certain places. But if you think for one moment that I'm gonna sit back and let some two-bit do gooder with a high maternal instict tell me WHAT I CAN EAT....because they think I'm TOO STUPID TO KNOW BETTER!! Oh HELL no.

It's just making my head spin - get the hell out of my life you, you, you busy bodies you. I'll eat what I want, drink what I want and smoke what I want. If I'm too heavy - that's my issue not yours.

I find that I am stuttering as I try to put my thoughts into words, so I'll just stop for now and follow this up later. But this really pisses me off!

Posted by Tammi at 11:32 AM | Comments (8)

Today is SUNDAY!

Yesterday was exhausting. I had a workshop to conduct with the public at 10:00am. that lasted until 2:00. Then across the town center to help another client with a chairity event. Finally got to sit down at 7:00 last night. Big problem - I wore "cute" shoes not "smart" shoes. I didn't plan on being on my feet near the hours I was. Ouchie.

But I met the sweetest woman. She was a tiny Cuban woman who lit the room with her smile. She and her son were picking out mattresses and being very careful that they got exactly the right one. It took a long time. She and I sat and chatted and I just fell in love. She was a delight. At one point she asked where I lived so I gave her the general area.

"You must come and live by me. We would be a good team. We would have a lot of fun."

Yeah - I bet we would.

As they were waiting to pay for their purchases another "gentleman"....and I do use that term very lightly......needed my assistance. What a creep. I needed a shower after just talking with him. Aftre he left, she came over and told me "I don't like him. I don't like the way he watch you. I don't like the way he talk to you. I don't like him at all."

I thanked her and said I was kind of use to it....I get that a lot.

Then he comes back. And just stands at the edge of the department watching me.

This sweet Cuban school teacher, no bigger than a minute, marches right up to him and let him know that she didn't appreciate what he was doing. That he was not being a gentleman, and that he needed to conclude his business and be on his way!

Way to Go Maria!!!!!

Anyway - got home and had a wonderful phone call from TNT and Harvey - checking up on me. I love those two!! I can't wait to see you!

Today is all ours. Cody and I are packing our stuff and heading SouthWest. First we will stop at my friend J's house to introduce Cody to the family and spend some time with some of my Florida Family. Then tonite....we are heading over to Lee Ann's to get my damned shirt back and have a wonderful evening. She is going to watch Cody for me while I am in Georgia next week and I know he couldn't be in better hands.

So.....I better get off this damned couch and finish packing. Damn - it seems like Cody has just as much stuff as I do! I think I need to get some puppy luggage!!

Posted by Tammi at 09:49 AM | Comments (3)

What Did He Mean By That

So the other day I was making a store call and talking with on of my sales people. As I was leaving he asked a question that really took me by surprise. He asked if I were at least part Irish.

I said I didn't know, as I was adopted. I know the Italian but the rest is a mystery.

He said he's pretty sure I do, as I have some obvious traits.

Then he smiled and turned away. I asked what he meant, and he just smiled again and said he preferred not to say.

So........does anyone have any idea what he might mean by that? Are there stereotypical traits that I am unaware of?

Damn, I didn't know whether to thank him or smack him up side the head. Can you help shed any light?

Posted by Tammi at 08:59 AM | Comments (9)

Puppy Blogging

Well, Cody and I are doing pretty well. He's a very smart little boy. He now does pretty well telling me when he has to go out. AND we started making him wait at the door when we come in so I can take his leash off. He is actually starting to do that without me saying it! WooHoo.

Oh, we still have our accidents. It was hysterical - the other evening I'm on the phone with That 1 Guy and we have an "incident". I should probably mention that I no longer have "normal" conversation. I have turret like outbursts of "No, don't do that" or "Get da baby" and most common "DON'T BITE DA MAMA!". So in the middle of his sentence I start yelling "No, don't pee on the bone, not the bone. Don't pee on the bone! Oh, he's peein' on the bone. He's so screwed!" T1G is cracking up and then asks where the quote pen is. Oh, that's right - it's in Tammi's Special Place. (you have to read the comments in that post to really get it)

Anyway - we are adjusting very well. In fact, even though it's only been a week I can't imagine life without him.

We have some big news coming up pretty soon. Lots of changes for both of us. Can't really go into it right now, for a couple of different reasons - but at least we have each other. He really has added something special to my life.

So anyway - here is a new Cody Candid moment. He's in his favorite place - lying on his back, at my feet looking up at me.

Posted by Tammi at 07:49 AM | Comments (10) | TrackBack

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 the end of the day. You are exhausted. You just want to relax. Escape. So what do you do?

For me, now I blog. But I have to be honest. That isn't my ideal. I like a quiet evening with either a good movie or a good book. A nice dinner - preferably not cooked by me - and a drink. Not a stiff drink, no nothing too strong. Just an appletini or a Cpt. and Diet. Basic escapism. Yeah - that sounds like a nice little gte away.

So what do you do?

Posted by Tammi at 07:31 AM | Comments (10)

Loss

Rob, at Gut Rumbles, has lost his mother this morning.

She passed away at 5:00am this morning.

Stop by and express your condolences.

Losing a parent is a very difficult thing.

I'm so sorry Rob. You're right - the world has lost a good woman.

Posted by Tammi at 06:58 AM | Comments (0)

If the House is a Shakin'......

It was very strange. I was sitting in my living room, a little before 8:00pm talking with Laughing Wolf tonite. We were just wrapping up the conversation.

All of a sudden I interrupt him....my house was shaking. Things on the walls, the glass doors. I told him it was "hurricane" shaking.

I knew we had some strong wind but this was different.

Yes - yes it was.

At 7:41pm an F18 was landing at McDill Airforce base in Tampa. The result was a sonic boom. They flew in over the Gulf of Mexico and it's believed that the weather contributed to the event.

Yep - I've experienced a sonic boom. It was pretty cool....once I knew what the hell was going on. I just wish I could have seen those puppies flying! Damn, now THAT would have been cool!

Posted by Tammi at 11:24 PM | Comments (4)

Another Reason I HATE the MSM

My Daddy died August 7, 1971. I first introduced this wonderful man to you here.

What I don't think I've mentioned is what happened directly following the plane crash that killed both he and my uncle.

That hot summer morning my Mama rounded up my sister and I to run do some running and keep us busy so none of us missed Daddy too much while he was on his fishing trip.

We were in the car, driving from the grocery store to the cleaners to a friends house and home again. Took up most of the morning.

When we got home the driveway had many cars in it and Mama's friends were standing on the cement courtyard outside the back door.

There was a note on the door. The note said: Please contact the K* County police regarding a fatal accident involving W. G.

A note. A flippin' note.

But what really got to us is how so many people knew!

You wanna know how?

The damned MSM released the details of the accident, including names, as soon as it happened. Mama's friends heard about it on the radio. On. The. Radio.

We were driving around with the radio on! How we didn't hear it is beyond me. I like to believe it was by the grace of God.

But they released the details BEFORE THE FAMILY HAD BEEN NOTIFIED!!

So what brought on this memory? Well the shooting in Atlanta - that's what. I've got FOX News on as I'm working on reports and that's all they are talking about. They have released the name of the judge and said that he is dead. They have announced that the court reporter is also dead. FOLKS - the family will most probably know if their loved one was the reporter for that judge. Not releasing the name doesn't shield them in any way.

Now - the Sherrif's office is refusing to give any details. But it doesn't matter now. The MSM has plastered it across the airwaves.

It's wrong. It's disrespectful to the families involved and to the victims. This is not how they would want their families to be informed.

Damn - I hate when they do things like this.

Posted by Tammi at 10:39 AM | Comments (3)

Dog Days of Winter?!?!

What in the HELL is going on down here in Tampa.

First we had the shooting on I75 near I4 on Sunday. Then yesterday we hear about a woman in a town near Tampa that had a man drive up by her and shot at her.

NOW....we got some wacko that ran a woman and her 2 children off the road and then FOLLOWED HER, yelling, screaming and again trying to run her off the road.....because he didn't like her Bush/Cheney bumper sticker. (article includes transcript of 911 call)

You almost expect to hear shit like this is August and September when the heat starts to really take it's toll, but it's Flippin' March. Can't be the heat!

But seriously - this is just beyond weird. Why so many of these types of things all so close together? This stuff just doens't happen like this in Tampa. Damn......I wanna go back to Bradenton. It's not perfect, but I sure do feel a lot safer there.

Posted by Tammi at 10:04 AM | Comments (3)

Congrats!

I share a blogiversary with Kate at Electric Venom! Yesterday was her 2nd!!

Congrats Kate!!

Damn, I picked a fine day to start blogging!!

Posted by Tammi at 09:25 AM | Comments (0)

Too Coincidental!

You know it's almost scary how well my blog family knows me. Scary, scary, scary.

The other day, while I was in Daytona Harvey posted this little "tale" of Tammi vs. the Bullet. Very funny. Even funnier when you know that while that was being written and posted I was having a conversation very much like it with a four or five of the largest bikers I have ever seen in my life. I had not seen Harvey's post when that happened. I get home and read it all the while hearing the conversation I had with the Big Guys and hearing myself say much of what he wrote! Damnit Harvey - where DID you hide those video cameras?!?!

Then yesterday - for some reason I was telling Teresa a Stupid Tammi Story. We were discussing packing and traveling. I have a little problem packing. I know, I know - surprising since I pack and travel so much.

Anyway - there is a running joke in my family. Every time I travel I call in and let them know I arrived and that everything is ok. The first thing they always ask is if I remembered to pack my underware. Yeah - my underware. And the answer is usually - SOB! Gotta go. Gotta go shopping.

It all started with my first trip to Florida about 12 years ago. I was very excited. It was my first grown up vacation and my husband was letting me go alone. He felt safe since I was visiting family. So days ahead of time I started packing my bag. Carefully selecting items that I wanted to take. I remember sorting out what undies I wanted and placing them by the suitcase. I get to Florida, went to dress to go out to dinner after a day at the beach and WTF?!?! Where are my panties!! Seems I never actually put them IN the suitcase. So off to Wal-Mart we go.......damn. Unexpected expense and my cousin has the memory of an elephant. I knew she'd never let me live that down.

About 6 months later My ex and I are meeting the same cousin and going to a wedding. We get to the hotel and I start to unpack. SOB! Yes, again I forget the undies. My husband was NOT happy. "What are you doing that you forget to pack something so important?" Yada yada yada. My cousin? Laughed her ass off.

Fast forward to after the divorce - trip back to Florida for job interveiws. You got it.....another trip to Wal-Mart to buy undies. Damn it!

The last trip I took - called to let my cousin know I'm there and she asks "The Question". I give the standard answer - SHIT!!! She laughs and tells me to check the pocket on the front of my suitcase. She had found the pile of panties next to the suitcase and stuck in the pocket for me.

And, as evidenced at Lee Ann's blog - I tend to leave things behind. This is one of my favorite tops so I'm glad to know where it is! But I've lost shoes - I hate to wear them and tend to walk out barefooted and never even miss them til to it's late to remember where I left them. I've left coats, jeans, shorts - you name it. But I do ALWAYS remember to REPACK the undies.

Focus Tammi - Focus!!

Posted by Tammi at 09:03 AM | Comments (8)

Well Lookie Here....

This is just wrong.

Funny.

But wrong.

Any revenge suggestions?!?!

Posted by Tammi at 11:44 PM | Comments (3)

It's A BIG Day!

Guess what! Today is my 1 year blogaversary! Yep - it was one year ago today that I stumbled on to blogspot and wrote this.

I had been reading Smash, Blackfive, Lex, GreyHawk, Sgt. Hook (who we miss VERY much) and Laughing Wolf for a while by that time. There I was, following a link at Blackfive over to an active duty MilBlogger and sumbled across Blogspot. "Start your own Blog!" OK. And I did.

It really was that easy. It really was that quick. Next thing I know I'm posting like a crazy woman.

1299 posts later - 403 at Blogspot and 895 here - and I can't imagine my life without it.

I've been so lucky. I've had encouragment from some pretty heavy hitters - and I'll never understand why! But I thank you!

And the people I've met! WOW! Whether in person, on the phone or just via email and blogging my life is so much richer because of them.

I've been a member of the Bad Example Family since July and that has truly changed my life. Harvey will never know what a gift he has given me in that. And I've met 2 of my best friends in life. Teresa and Bou have become such an important part of who I am......two of the best things that have ever happened to me. And that is not taking away anything for the rest of my family! I know ya'll are probably sick of hearing about the Bad Example Family Reuion - but it truly was one of the best weekends of my life. I count each and every one of the Family as True Family!!

I said in the beginning that this would be a "hodge podge" blog. A little politics, a little business and just a whole lotta Tammi. Seems I've stuck to that pretty well.

And the best part? You. The people that come here and read what I share. You leave comments, send emails and every one of those mean so much.

When I had my accident last year, just 5 days after introducing myself - the support I recieved was amazing. Damn haloscan anyway - all my old comments are just gone!!

We've had a lot of laughs these past 365 days. And I don't plan on slowing down anytime in the future. In my mind we are just getting started.

So Thank You. Thank you for a wonderful year. Thank you for your support and friendship. Thank You for taking time out of your day to share mine.

Posted by Tammi at 07:48 AM | Comments (27) | TrackBack

Well Shoot

So of course TODAY I'm having issues with my site.

We modernized our Bad Example Family Blogroll and for some reason it is keeping my site from loading.

SO.....until I can figure out how to fix that I've been forced to move the family list to the bottom of the page.....hurry if anyone knows what I can do to fix this LET ME KNOW!! I want them back where they belong! At the Top Of The List!

Posted by Tammi at 07:35 AM | Comments (4)

Be Polite

Steve over at Hog on Ice has a series of posts up about cigarette smokers here, here and here. Hmmm....he's sorta got a point, kinda, maybe.

I'd like to offer up my point of view. I am a smoker. Yes - I know I've talked about quitting, tried to quit but as of today I Still Smoke.

BUT.....my Mama (who is also a smoker) always insisted that I be polite about it.

If I am with nonsmokers and I know that they do NOT like to be around smoke I will either not smoke or step away from them to have my cigarette. Don't force on anyone. That's not polite.

If I am in the car with nonsmokers and I know smoke bothers them I don't smoke. I've driven across country with a nonsmoker. 21 hours. I only smoked when we stopped for gas. I would jump out the car, pee, and then power smoke. I was always at the car waiting for them. I don't make anyone deal with my smoke or wait for me because I have a bad habit. That's not polite.

Most of the time in my own home I will not smoke if I have nonsmokers in the house. Unless they insist otherwise. NOW...the Bad Example Family Reunion was an exception. Yes, I did smoke in the house and I just want to publically apologize if that bothered any of you. Won't happen again. It's not polite.

Do I know how bad is smells? Yes, yes I do and I hate it.

Do I like the way it tastes? No, no I don't - I hate it.

Do I realize I am being ripped off regarding the price? Yep - it's my choice to pay. I'm no dummy - despite what you may think if you see me with a cigarette.

Do I like going out on the sidewalk to smoke? No, but it's what needs to be done, so I do it. The hardest time is when I'm up north and it's snowy. Yeah, that's not so nice.

Do I want to quit? Yes....and the day is fast approaching. I read last year about a pill that will help stop smoking. I didn't hear more about it for a while. Then today I hear researchers are "racing" to find the cure. Bring. It. On.

What many don't realize is that smoking is more addictive than heroin. Yep. And I gotta tell you - I have No, none, zero, not one ounce of will power. I've tried and just don't have it. I need help. Big Time. So......bring it on.

I don't mind not being able to smoke in most locations. It bugs me that I can't smoke in most bars, so I just don't go out as much.

BUT....that all being said - smokers are not "Disgusting". We're not "Dirty". That is actually pretty harsh. If you don't like the smell - don't hang around us. Believe it or not - I've had people that have known me professionally that didn't know I smoked. Not at all. I'm not a dirty person. And I dare anyone to tell me that I am. You don't want to kiss a smoker? Than don't date one. It's that simple. Your choice. I burn candles, use febreeze and keep my house as open as I can. Because I don't like the smell either, so I have to work at it.

But don't generalize. It's not polite.

Posted by Tammi at 07:06 AM | Comments (9)

She's Moved! She's Moved!

My beloved blogsister Boudicca has FINALLY moved to her new site.

And it is very pretty. Pam did the graphics and they are PERFECT for Bou!

Update them blogrolls folks!

Congratulations Bou! It's beautiful!

Posted by Tammi at 12:29 AM | Comments (1)

What a WONDERFUL Treat

I just had the nicest surprise! A phone call. From Christina! You know...the Feisty One!

What a wonderful conversation! We talked about her beautiful children, cooking, a bit about our pasts......it was delightful.

I could stand surprises like that every day!!

AND I actually get to meet her face to face in April! WooHoo!!

I. Can't. Wait.

Thank you so much for calling Christina! It was exactly what I needed this evening!

Posted by Tammi at 07:12 PM | Comments (1)

They Answered!

Ok - a couple posts down from here I talk about Johnson and Johnson's participation in Oprah's World Biggest Baby Shower at Ft. Campbell.

Well, as I said I sent them a message. Guess what! They answered!

I said:

I just saw today's Oprah show - the Worlds Largest Baby Shower and
had to drop you a line.

I work in consumer products and know how much effort went into
that. But more than anything I want to Thank You for your support
of our Military. What you did was so beyond anything I've ever
seen and I just wanted to let you know it was noticed. It is
appreciated.

Also - you've gained my loyalty. I understand consumer shopping
practices and I will tell everyone I know what you did and that it
has made me a loyal JNJ consumer for life.

Thank you again.
Tammi

They answered:

Dear Tammi:

Thank you for your message and kind comments regarding our participation in the "Oprah" Baby Shower show. We understand that having a baby changes everything for families. Since many military wives must cope with pregnancy and birth without their husbands or family, we wanted to give them a way to bring in one of the most important people in their lives to support them during this special time. We also thought the families would appreciate receiving some of our most popular products. We thank you for taking time to provide your opinion on our part in the World's Biggest Baby Shower and for your loyalty to our products.

Johnson & Johnson

That's NOT a canned response. I'm very impressed.

Drop them a line if you care to.

Posted by Tammi at 06:08 PM | Comments (3)

Ouch

I drive between 700 and 900 miles per week. Next week I'm driving to Georgia and back - plus hit stores.

So I hear about gas prices going up again - as high as $2.15/gal and I just want to scream!!!!

There just isn't enough output.

And even a decision to boost production at the meeting in Iran on March 16 would come too late to compensate for the late outburst of wintry weather in the Northern Hemisphere that is driving demand for heating oil. Cordier said the recent cold weather is no doubt fueling the rally in oil futures, but he believes that factor will dissipate soon with spring around the corner.

Hmmm......so it's because of the cold weather. YOU PEOPLE UP NORTH ARE KEEPING YOUR HOUSES TOO WARM - DAMNIT!! Turn Down The Heat or get yourselves to a warmer climate.

There - I think that should take care of it.

Now....are there any other crisis' I can handle for ya'll?!

Posted by Tammi at 04:53 PM | Comments (7)

This Rocks!

Oprah is hosting the Worlds Biggest Baby Shower at Fort Campbell. 640 pregnant soldiers and soldiers' wives.

Now I don't normally watch Oprah but this caught my attention.

They are giving away tons of presents. Clothes, music, all sorts of stuff. And I can't think of anyone more deserving.

Of course, being Oprah they have some serious tear jerking moments and yes, she got me a couple of times. But over all......I think this is about the coolest thing she's done.

But I think it's also pretty important to acknowledge the companies the contributed to this. What many don't know is that the gifts are all DONATED by the companies. Yes, they get the free press, but it's still a donation...so in extended entry are the companies that donated to this really cool idea.

But I want you to know that Johnson & Johnson has gone way above and beyond. Not only did they donate Digital Camera's but they are giving each of the 640 women there $1000 to fly in a family member for the birth of their child. Think about that folks....THAT IS THE COOLEST THING I'VE SEEN IN A LONG LONG TIME. I'm going to send a message. Here's the form just incase you want to let them know how much you appreciate their support of our troops.

Johnson & Johnson
www.jnj.com
www.johnsonsbaby.com
Provided:

Johnson's® Nourishing Milk Lotion

Johnson's® Nourishing Milk Wash

Johnson's® Soothing Vapor Baby Bath

Johnson's® Light Oil Mist

Johnson's® Baby Oil

Balmex® Diaper Rash ointment

Johnson's® Bedtime Bath®

Johnson's® Bedtime Lotion®

Johnson's® Head-to-Toe® Baby Wash

Johnson's® Baby Shampoo

Johnson's® Softlotion™ Light Care Lotion

Johnson's® Baby Lotion

Johnson's® Nursing Pads

Johnson's® Softwash™ Body Wash

Johnson's® Baby Powder

Johnson's® Safety Swabs

PRIMO® Infant Bath Seat

Embroidered Johnson & Johnson hooded towel

Free membership to babycenter.com

$1,000 travel gift

Amazon.comSM
www.amazon.com
Provided baby books, including:

Goodnight Moon

Pat the Bunny

Where Is Baby's Belly Button

Baby Talk

Mr. Brown Can Moo, Can You?

Avent
www.aventamerica.com
Provided Newborn Starter Set.

Babies"R"UsSM
www.babiesrus.com
Provided:

Gerber "O Baby" onesies

Playtex Diaper Genie®

Talking Geoffrey doll

Crayola® products, including Washable Crayons set, Animal Songs CD, and Color Wonder Finger Paint and coloring book set

Fisher-Price® Look-a-doo Water Teether

Big-stuffedanimals.com
www.big-stuffedanimals.com
Provided stuffed animals.

Boppy®
www.boppy.com
Provided Boppy® infant support pillow.

Cherry Pie®
www.cherrypieinc.com
Provided gift certificates for mini-celeb baby gift baskets.

Deckers Outdoor Corporation
www.deckers.com
Provided UGG® "Erin" baby booties.

Diaper Dude®
www.diaperdudebag.com
Provided Diaper Dude® diaper bags.

Dorel Juvenile Group
www.djgusa.com
Provided Eddie Bauer® Playard and Safety 1st® video monitor.

Elle Macpherson Intimates Collection
Provided Maternelle Maternity Bra.
Available at www.figleaves.com.

Evenflo
www.evenflo.com
Provided ExerSaucers® and Nicole Miller Snuglis®

Fleurville
www.fleurville.com
Provided MotherShip® diaper bags.

Graco®
www.gracobaby.com
Provided Quattro Tour® travel system.

Hewlett-Packard
Provided HP Photosmart® digital cameras.
www.hp.com

Huggies®
www.huggies.com
Provided diapers and disposable changing pads.

Inphant Elefant
www.inphantelefant.com
Available at selected Nordstroms and at www.nordstrom.com
Provided chenille blankets.

North American Bear Co., Inc.
www.nabear.com
Provided stuffed animals.
(800) 682-3427

Old Navy
www.oldnavy.com
Provided Star Gift Set.

Random House
www.randomhouse.com
Provided baby books, including:

Are you My Mother?

Green Eggs & Ham

Horton Hears a Who

How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Hunches in Bunches

Oh, The Places You'll Go

One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish

The Cat in the Hat

The Cat in the Hat Comes Back

Yertle

Posted by Tammi at 04:45 PM | Comments (1)

Another Theory

Well, That 1 Guy is still missing. This is going to start the 2nd week.

Oh Eric and Harvey are doing a GREAT job filling in (I had no idea about the diary! And Thailand seems interesting!)

Here I offer my theory on where he is (or rather what he's doing!).

I've thought of something else!

It's Bike Week!!

He LOVE'S his Harley.

Daytona - this week - is the Mecca of Bikers.

There are thousands of bikers and bike lovers in Daytona this week. He could blend right in and we'd never find him.

Yep - if it's not the SwimSuit models it's the bike. Gotta be. What do you think?

Posted by Tammi at 11:04 AM | Comments (4)

Driving Stories

TNT at Smiling Dynamite has a story up (complete with sketches) regarding a nasty driver she had to deal with.

Then she asks for our stories!

HELLO! I'm The Road Warrior!! Every. Single. Day. some idiot pulls some stupid stunt that just blows my mind. Every. Single. Day.

I don't know where to begin. There were the girls yesterday, in the rented convertable, on their way to Bike Week in Daytona. All over the flippin' road, everyone one of them on cell phones. Cutting people off, changing lanes, flying (I was going 85 mph and we were playing leap frog.) Ended up running an elderly couple onto the shoulder. Bitches.

Then there is the time I was riding with my sister. I had loaned her my car and there was an emergency at the mill I worked at. She was a volunteer paramedic and had to respond. I figured I would just ride along since I had to go there anyway.

Bad idea.

It's snowing to beat the band. Ice. Ice. Ice. She barrels out of the lane (we lived wayyyy out in the country). I warn her that the best thing in these conditions is to go up to the main highway - side roads would not be cleared.

Oh HELL no. She knows what she's doing. She hits the overpass just past the house and it's iced over. We start spinning and hit the guard rail that prevents us from falling on to the toll road below.

LET ME DRIVE YOU IDIOT!!

She ignores me. THEN, instead of going out to the highway - she takes a left onto a country road.

SHIT

We get about 2 miles down the road and get stuck. I'm cussing the whole time. Please keep in mind, I'm in a dress (going to work). We see a plow truck up ahead and I get volunteered to go up and ask for help.

After great struggles I get the car door open. I step out. Into a snowbank that is past my waist!! I'm 6'2". That's A LOT of snow. Now I'm really pissed.

To make a long story short - the plow truck crew got us backed out of the bank and back on the road. We go to the highway - guess what! It's clear! (HA) and get to the mill just as the ambulance is pulling away. I'm soaking wet and the car looks like it's been through a war.

I gave her the car that evening. Signed it over. Lock stock and dents.

And those are only a couple that I remember right off the top of my head. Head on over to TNT's place and share your driving nightmares!!

Posted by Tammi at 10:56 AM | Comments (2)

My Wish List

Over at Frizzen Sparks, Grau has a challenge posted.

On your blog (or in my comments if you are blogless) pick five really expensive toys you'd like to have that you really have no legitimate reason to get (other than the most legitimate of all reasons, that being that you just want it!)
Remember: Money is no object. My only rule is that it has to be something you could actually buy (or have built for you) legally. No "I'd have my own F-22!" stuff.

Now folks - I am a woman. I love to shop. I can soooooooo do this! The problem will be limiting it to just 5 items. And he said toys so I won't list the house on the water in Bradenton or the SL500 convertable. Oh, and a whole new wardrobe. Those are necessities. ;-)

So.....list of 5 toys that I would buy if money were no issue:

1) Samsung's 82" Plasma TV!! Given the fact that I'd have that house on the water I KNOW I'd have a room just for this bad boy! Holy Cow.....of course surround sound is included so that just makes it a little spot of heaven.

2) As many Jack Vettriano's original's as I can find. I love his stuff (as I keep mentioning)

3) A private jet - and pilot to fly me. My friends and family are spread out all over. With a jet I could get to them or fly them down here, when ever I wanted to!!

4) A Steinway Grand Piano. One of the limited editions (with the Rosewood finish) - oh and the lessons to get really good again!!

5) Last but not least a home gym. Not necessarily this one, but one with all the bells and whistles. I LOVE to work out, just never have time to GO to the gym and if I have the ways and means and it's handy I am religious about it!

So that's my wish list. What's yours?

Posted by Tammi at 10:25 AM | Comments (2)

Update on Tampa Shooting

Now they are saying the bullet that killed a man Sunday on I75 outside of Tampa looks to have been shot from a passing car. Not a sniper.

Gotta tell you - still doesn't give me the warm fuzzies. While Harvey seems to think I can talk/charm my way out of anything I just don't like the sound of this.

What makes people do something like this? If was random, why? Did the shooter get pissed off because the guy changed lanes without a signal? Did they just not like the color of his hair? Did he look at them wrong?

It reminds me back about 10 years ago, when I first moved down here tourists were being targeted. Out of state plates and rental cars were trouble. I don't think that's it - the guy was a local. But still, it stirs those memories.

So...today I'm heading that way. I ended up in Daytona yesterday so I have no choice today. Tomorrow either.

I'll just be glad when they get this solved.

Posted by Tammi at 09:33 AM | Comments (1)

A DAMN Good Man

Sarah's Husband is HOME! Of course she had to check in with us and give us an update.

Besides the picture - this is the line that got me this morning:

Yesterday I wrote how proud I am of my husband, but last night he made me even prouder. He hadn't slept in two days, he hadn't eaten dinner or gotten any lovin', but the first thing he wanted to do was check on his soldiers. We spent our first hour together in the barracks, passing out bottles of beer and introducing me to his guys. I am so proud that he put them first.

Yeah Sarah - You should be proud. He's a Damn Good Man!!

Posted by Tammi at 08:21 AM | Comments (0)

One of my FAVORITE Movies!!

Happy Gilmore!!!

This makes me laugh every time I watch it.

And I don't know why - I don't usually like the "slapstick" stuff.

Hmmm....must be all the hockey players and golfers that I know......

Posted by Tammi at 09:09 PM | Comments (0)

I Got An Email

And it really hit me.

It was just one simple line......

Husband back safe and a link to a new blog. ArmyWifeToddlerMom.

I went over and read her first two entries and caught myself getting chocked up! Her husband is back from a tour in the Sand Box. He's home, he has a 3 year and a 16 month old, and they are a family of 4 all together for the first time.

I'm honored to know she's been a reader here for a while now. I'm glad to know that all this jibber jabber I type out reaches someone.

So I claim her. Yes - I Claim Her. Army Wife is MY BLOGDAUGHTER and I couldn't be prouder!!!

So get on over there and welcome her. Share her joy with her husband's return. And then keep going back to offer her support.

Congratulations Army Wife. You're one hell of a Lady!!!

Posted by Tammi at 10:48 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack

Oh THIS is good....

NOT!

Seems there was a shooting on I75 near Tampa.

Here's what I was able to find so far (Taken from the FOX News site in Tampa.)

HILLSBOROUGH DEPUTIES MAKE A PLEA FOR INFORMATION IN SHOOTING

The Hillsborough Sheriff's office wants to know who killed a husband and father. 49-year-old David Neel was a security guard from Zephyrhills. He was heading south on I-75 near I-4 Sunday when his truck careened off the road into a tree. When troopers reached him, they found a single high caliber bullet had pierced his chest and killed him. Investigators say it's one of the tougher cases they've undertaken because they have so little to go on. They say there's the chance the bullet could have been fired from the side of the road or the woods nearby.

They are saying it could be a sniper, but are still investigating.

They are down playing this because they don't want people to get scared. HELLO!! Some of us have no choice but to be on the highway. IT's kinda nice to know there's something to worry about out there other than the usual idiot drivers and construction.

Did I mention that is exactly where I'm supposed to go today? Yeah - Yipee!

Posted by Tammi at 09:59 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack

I Always Said I DON'T Flirt!

Found this quiz (yes....another one) over at Shady Downs.

Your Seduction Style: The Natural

You don't really try to seduce people... it just seems to happen. Fun loving and free spirited, you bring out the inner child in people. You are spontaneous, sincere, and unpretentious - a hard combo to find! People drop their guard around you, and find themselves falling fast.

What Is Your Seduction Style?

Posted by Tammi at 08:35 AM | Comments (7)

You HAVE to Read This

**Kleenex Alert**

Found via Kathy at The Third Hand, this article (in the LA Times, no less) brings tears to my eyes and steel to my spine.

Cpl. Jacob Palmatier was a member of the Battle Boars of the 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division. He was killed by an IED in Mid February.

You owe it to yourself, and Cpl. Palmatier to go and read this article. It's more than just a story of loss, it tells of focus, vengence and commitment.

I cannot express my thanks, admiration or appreciation to our Military men and women and their families.

Posted by Tammi at 07:43 AM | Comments (0)

He's Comin' Home

After over a year - Sarah's husband is scheduled to come home today!

I am so happy for both of them.

It's been a long year, and I cannot imagine WHAT it's been like for her. But, as you know if you read her, she is one classy lady!

There is a letter I found, written by Melissa Bouldin-Reeves and posted at Arkansas.gov. It comes the closest I can find to expressing my thoughts of Sarah and this past year. I'm reposting it in extended entry....

Letter to a Military Spouse

While I have never had the pleasure of meeting you or your husband, I felt the need to write you and express a very deep feeling that I have in my heart.

I, as a person, am not brave. I do not tackle things head on, as I hate confrontation. I will travel 100 miles out of my way just to avoid a conflict. I am an American woman that has not idea what is going on in the military other than what I hear on the news. I have never had to let go of someone so that they could go fight for people that they didn't know, people that sometimes do not appreciate or understand what they are fighting for.

I have never had a sleepless night of worry because of a report that another bomb has exploded and I still haven't heard from my husband. I have never had to wait for months on end to hold the one that I loved so.

I have never had to tell my children that daddy wasn't coming home tonight because he was so far away fighting for something that they aren't yet old enough to understand.

I have never had to hold my head high and suppress the tears as I hear that it will be at least another 6 months of separation before my loved one gets to come home.

I have never had to deal with a holiday away from the one that I thought I would share every day of my life with.

And I never have to feel the panic rising in my heart at the sound of a ringing phone or knock at the door for fear that it is the news that everyone is terrified of getting.

For the reasons listed above, I can not tell you that I understand how you feel. I can not tell that you must be strong. I cannot say that you shouldn't be angry, because you “knew what you were getting into when you married a military man”. I can not say these things because I have never had to walk in your shoes.

What I can say for certain is that because of your unselfish acts of bravery and your husbands' willingness to stand up for those who see him as “just another soldier”—I will never have to walk in your shoes.

I do understand that as a military wife you are expected to uphold a certain amount of control, but I never understood how you could do it, until now. I have figured out that you are not like other women. You are a special breed. You have a strength within you that holds life together in the darkest of hours, a strength of which I will never possess. The faith you have is what makes you stand out in a crowd; it makes you glow with emotion and swell with pride at the mention of The United States of America.

You are a special lady, a wonderful partner and a glorious American. I have more respect for your husband than I could ever tell you, but until recently I never thought much about those that the soldier leaves at home during deployment.

Until this moment I could never put into words exactly what America meant to me.

Until this moment, I had no real reason to…. Until I heard of you.

Your husband and his military family holds this nation close, safe from those who wish to hurt us… but you and those like you are the backbone of the American family. You keep the wheels in motion and the hearts alive while most would just break down completely down. Military families make this nation what it is today.

You give us all hope and you emit a warming light at the end of a long dark tunnel.

Because of you and your family… I am able to be me. I am able to have my family. I am able to walk free in this great land. Because of you and your family, I can look ahead to the future with the knowledge that life is going to be okay. Because of you and your family, I can awake to a new day, everyday.

I realize that you are a stronger person than I will ever be because of these things and I just wanted to take the time today to say thank you to you and your family for allowing me that freedom.

I will never be able to repay this debt to you, as it is unmatchable. However, I hope that you know that no matter where you are… what you are doing… what as happened today… or what will happen tomorrow… Your husband will NEVER be “just another soldier” to me… And you, dear sweet lady, will never be forgotten.

You are all in my prayer's everyday and I pray that God will bring you back together with your loved one safely.

May God Bless You!
Sincerely,
Melissa G. Bouldin-Reeves
Tennessee

(emp. mine)

God Bless you and your husband Sarah - it's been a long 387 days (and nights). I'm so glad he's comin' home!

Posted by Tammi at 05:52 AM | Comments (0)

Excellent Example

I witnessed one of the best examples of customer service the other day that I have ever seen.

I was at my local Wal-Mart SuperCenter. I needed to find a wind-up alarm clock. I couldn't think where they would be so I asked a young man if he could point me in the right direction.

He wasn't sure so he asked and they sent me to electronics (for.a.wind-up.alarm.clock?!?) That was fine, I needed ink for my printer anyway.

As I was waiting for the guy to unlock the case here comes my little friend with the directions.

Miss? I just wanted you to know that the wind-up alarm clocks are in Jewelry. There's a whole rack. Here are two different kinds, in case you were interested.

HOLY COW!! He not only followed up on my question but then walked halfway across the store to find me and tell me - AND - bring a couple along to save me the walk!

That rocks.

Now THATS customer service!!

Posted by Tammi at 05:10 AM | Comments (5)

Reminds me of a story

Dash has a post talking about how so many companies are using GPS systems now a days. The companies say it is to keep track of their equipment and to assist employees as well as make sure they are doin' what they should be doin'.
Reminds me of a story!

Long Long Time Ago - back in my early steel days - I WAS the GPS system.

I worked in a steel coating facility. We shipped the nicely coated, cut and inspected steel coils to processors to then go on to appliance and automotive companies. If you got in a bind and shut down a plant because you didn't get the steel where it needed to go in time - well, let's just say it costs lots and lots of money! Yeah - not a good conversation to have with your boss.

So...I had a hot load that needed to get to a processor in Southern Michigan to be slit and than up to an automotive account that needed it YESTERDAY. HOT HOT HOT!!

Since I used to work in the shipping office I knew all the drivers pretty well. I knew who I could trust and who would get the job done....so I thought.

I picked Duane to run this load. It was a 45 min. drive and Duane lived up that way so it was almost on his way home. He arrived and while they loaded the truck I explained to him how important this was and that he had 1 hour to get the load delivered. That gave him a 15 min. buffer and believe me - with traffic that wasn't much of a buffer at all!

I went up to my office after our discussion and he took off. I forgot to mention that I was following the load so that we knew exactly when it was delivered to the automotive plant for processing. It was THAT hot.

Anyway - he gets about a 5 min. headstart on me. The plant is located out in the middle of a bunch of corn fields. Nothing around for miles - just farms and woods and cornfields. EXCEPT for the truckstop/whorehouse at the main intersection.

As I approach that infamous intersection I see Duane's truck. WTF?!?! Man....that SOB better be using the bathroom!

I tear into the parking lot - slam on my breaks and get out of the car. SLAM the car door and charge into the truckstop (the whorehouse was upstairs and YES it had a red light!). All in my designer suit and 3" pumps.

ME: Joe? Where's Duane?
JOE: Uhhh, well, ummmm..
ME: Is that son of a bitch upstairs?
Joe:
ME: Gol Darn it (ok - it's close to what I said).

I pull out my cell phone and call dispatch.

ME: This is Tammi at */*. I need a new tracter and driver at THE truckstop at X & Y NOW! He's got to be close - Hey? Is Roger available? Yeah - send him and tell him we have to switch the trailer off of Duane's tractor to his.

ME: Oh - and I don't ever want Duane to TOUCH a COIL of MY Steel AGAIN! Is that clear? ( I could do that - the plant owned this particular carrier)

Dispatch: Crystal

OK - now I'm really pissed. It's gonna take more time than I have to get the trailer switched over. I call the processor and make up some great story and buy myself some time. Oh - I had to pay the overtime charges for the crew that stayed over waiting to slit this coil - but it's STILL less than what the automotive plant would charge if I'm late.

THEN....I head up stairs. Oh yeah - you knew I was gonna do it, didn't ya?!

Standing on the landing:

ME: DUANE? DUANE! You son of a bitch - get your pants on and get your ass out here!

Duane: Tammi? WTF are you doin? I'm busy here!

ME: Yeah - well, you're gonna have plenty of time for that in the next few months - you ain't driving my shit anymore. Get your pants on and bring me the flippin' keys to your tractor! We gotta switch trailers.

Well......as it turns out, we got the trailers switched, coils slit and steel delivered just in time. Duane never drove any deliveries for me again - AND was completely unable to ever look me in the eye again.

Neither rain, nor ice nor piece of ass could stop MY steel from being delivered!

Posted by Tammi at 09:28 PM | Comments (9) | TrackBack

This is GREAT News!!

Lee Ann has some wonderful news regarding her Darling Hubby! Everything is going very well and it looks like he'll be able to leave the hospital soon! Still won't be home but will be in much more comfortable surroundings!!!

Hurry Up! Get over there and celebrate with them!!

This Absolutely MADE. MY. DAY!!!!

Posted by Tammi at 10:37 AM | Comments (0)

Must be something in the water!

OK - let's review....shall we?!

Harvey is the Blogfather of our family! He has gifted us with many new bloggers over the past year or so.

And most of us have drug, I mean encouraged others to jump into this blogshere. As a matter of fact - it's happening so often and in such a twisted way that I'm having a very difficult time updating the family tree!!

So.....I get a call yesterday. From my Blogbrother Johnny_Oh. Seems my bro has been up to some hankypanky! Now....he's got himself a blogdaughter all his own. And let me just say - he's got his hands full!

Let's welcome the newest addition to the Bad Example Family - Sarah the Penguin at Because We Have Thumbs.

Here she tells us a bit about herself - and I gotta say - after hearing she was a natural born storyteller, a DJ and an Emcee at a comedy club I can't WAIT to see what she comes up with!!

And she's off to a good start. She's only been at this a few days and already has some GREAT stuff up. Get yourself on over there - read through and get to know her! She's funny folks! And NOT afraid to speak her mind.....I think she's gonna fit in just fine.

Posted by Tammi at 08:52 AM | Comments (4)

I Never Realized

TNT is such an observant woman! She picked up on Cody's famous twin!

You need to check this out.

Very Cute!

Good Eye TNT!!

Posted by Tammi at 08:25 AM | Comments (0)

I am the WORST Puppy Mommy EVER

Son of a gun. I don't understand what is going on.

Cody was doing so well. Whining when he had to go out - even running towards the door. WooHoo! I figured this housebreaking thing was in the bag.

Yeah Right.

We've had more accidents today than in the past 3 days total. He'll just be playing away stop and pee. Or...we'll go out he'll do his duty...Good Cody...come back in and go some more. At first I blamed myself, thinking I wasn't staying out there long enough, but believe me, that can't be it today. We've gone on long walks - sat outside for over an hour and still. In he comes. Stops and pees.

Arrggghhhh!!! I don't know what to do.....so, he's trapped here on my lap right now as I type. I don't want to pen him up.....not that it's not tempting but it's not the right thing to do.

I know, I know...he's only 6 weeks old. He's still a baby....but Damn we were really doin' well there out the gate.

Oh, and here's a really cute picture of his little bum. I just love that little tail and bowlegs!!

look at da bum.jpg

Posted by Tammi at 08:17 PM | Comments (10)

Note To Self:

Even at 3:00 in the afternoon the Florida sun can be a bit strong.....do not use Excelerator only.

itcy. owie.

'nuff said.

(but I have to admit - I love this first "sun tingle" of the year!!)

Posted by Tammi at 06:54 PM | Comments (1)

TOO Funny!

I was cruisin' through the blogroll - stoppin' in to see my blogsis Sally when she links to this.

Oh.
My.
Goodness.

This is my favorite!! (I'm sure you can figure out why!)

Go - you gotta see this. Dang - I wish I knew how to do photoshop!

Thanks Sally - that was hilarious!!

UPDATE: This from the owner of the site:
I'm the webmistress for the crazymeanbaby site. I just wanted to let you know that within the next 24 hours, the domain is going to be changing to http://www.crazymeanbaby.com with a bunch of new manips and new features. Be sure to change your links and tell your friends. I'm glad you like the site :-)

Posted by Tammi at 06:51 PM | Comments (3)

Funny Email

A woman was walking along the beach when she stumbled upon a bottle. She picked it up and rubbed it, and 'low-and-behold' a genie appeared! The amazed woman asked if she got three wishes. The genie said, "Nope, sorry, three-wish genies are a storybook myth. I'm a one-wish genie. So, . . . what'll it be?"

The woman did not hesitate. She said, "I want peace in the Middle East. See this map? I want these countries to stop fighting with each other and I want all the Arabs to love the Jews and Americans and vice-versa. It will bring about world peace and harmony."

The genie looked at the map and exclaimed, "Lady, be reasonable. These countries have been at war for thousands of years. I'm out of shape after being in a bottle for five hundred years. I'm good but not THAT good! I don't think it can be done."

The woman thought for a minute and said, "Well, I've never been able to find the right man. You know, one that's considerate and fun, likes to cook and help with the house cleaning, is great in bed, and gets along with my family, doesn't watch sports all the time, and is faithful. That's what I wish for . . . a good man."

The genie let out a sigh and said, "Let me see the fricking map again."

except for the not watching sports part - it sounds like my wish list! ;-) Explains a lot - doesn't it!

Posted by Tammi at 08:35 AM | Comments (4)

No Surprise Here

I know, I know - I've been doing a lot of quizes lately - but damn, there are some pretty funny ones out there right now.

So I see the Care Bear Quiz over at Harvey's and just can't resist. He's Bondage Bear, but I thought he cheated - that's just too damn ironic.

Until I took it......

Redneck Bear

Which Dysfunctional Care Bear Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla

OK the Redneck part is right but.....while I enjoy country music, women don't really trip my trigger - at. all. And Beer? Yeah I like it well enough, but it's not usually my beverage of choice.

As for Nascar holding a special place in my heart? Well.....according to THIS it does - but just not a good spot.

And my teeth aren't THAT bad......are they?!?!?

But the Redneck part is right.

So - Which Dysfunctional Care Bear are YOU?!?!?

Posted by Tammi at 07:55 AM | Comments (6)

It's Silly Really

You know, it's the little things. Those small little details or items that just "complete" things.

For me it's a simple thing like my toe ring.

I've had a toe ring since the day after I moved down here. I was down at the surf shop in Bradenton, picking out my first bathing suit and saw a display of rings. Ohh....pretty shiney objects! Oh look, a celtic design. So I bought it. And it has been on my right foot since that day. No matter what shoes, what event, I wore my toe ring.

Then this winter - for some reason that I don't remember - I took it off. And promptly lost it. I looked everywhere. Who knows where that darn thing went. The stupid thing is I didn't even think to replace it. I just went without - occassionaly glancing at a display when I was out shopping but nothing reminded me of the one I lost and I really liked it.

Then yesterday I was, at all places, the smoke shop. After buying my carton of cigarettes for the week I was chatting with the clerk on my way out. There, in the last display, was a collection of toe rings. AND...there was one with a "somewhat" celtic design. Ohhhh, Ohhhh. So I bought it. And put it on as soon as I got in the car.

Yeah - that's what was missing. Just the feel on my toe. I remember the first time I went home for a visit after I moved. I was at fighting weight, had been working out and it showed. I had cut my hair and gone with an auburn tint. Hours, no days in the sun had turned my skin to a wonderful golden tan and I felt HOT! I was wearing my favorite little dresses and skirts and lots of sandles. My toe nails were a lovely shade of red and that little toe ring just finished off the look.

All those changes and the first thing everyone commented on was the toe ring. It was a symbol of the metamorphasis - both internal and external - that had occurred.

It's almost like I had forgotten just what I had gone through - what I have accomplished when I wasn't wearing it.

So - now it all feels right. I wiggle my toes and feel that little band of metal and smile. Yeah - I know it's silly - but it does make a difference.

Posted by Tammi at 07:15 AM | Comments (3)

A Good Book

Well, I saw this meme over at Eric's place and decided to play along.

Instructions:
1. Grab the nearest book.
2. Open the book to page 123.
3. Find the fifth sentence.
4. Post the text of the next 3 sentences on your blog along with these instructions.
5. Don’t you dare dig for that “cool” or “intellectual” book in your closet! I know you were thinking about it! Just pick up whatever is closest.

"We understand that Justice Califano didn't want to lose you when your second year comes to a close in July, either as his law clerk or his lover." Savich paused a fraction of a second. "He was your lover, wasn't he, Eliza?"

Gotta go.....it's gettin' good now!

Oh, the book is Blowout by Catherine Coulter.

Posted by Tammi at 09:19 PM | Comments (1)

More Cody Pictures

Well it's been a day! When I got home from running stores, Cody and I sat out by the pool soaking up some sun. Well, that was the plan anyway. Ends up we played out in the grass. He's discovered that he really likes that. Hoping to get some good outdoors shots in the next week.

I did add to the sleeping picture. We got one of him in his cage and another as he bounds across the kitchen floor. (Thank goodness for my Floormate! That bad boy will get a workout!)

Anyway - enjoy the pictures. I'm exhausted - hopping we can get him to sleep pretty easily tonite.

Posted by Tammi at 08:56 PM | Comments (1)

I Finally Figured it Out

That 1 Guy is missing in action. Oh...he's got Blogdaddy and Eric (that Straight White Guy) posting in his absense - but still. T1G is not about. And I miss him!

So, being the nosey biatch - I mean worry wart - that I am, I've been trying to figure out what's going on. Well folks - I shoulda been a detective. I am now 99.9% sure exactly what the scoop really is.

Let's consider the timing. On Tuesday March 1st we find this announcement from Eric saying that T1G will be "incommunicado" for a week or two.

I first noticed the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition on news stand on - ironically enough - Tuesday March 1st.

Hmmmm.....single guy, Marine, pictures of semi-naked women. Yep - it all adds up.

OK - now I'm content. I just needed to know what was going on. ;-)

Posted by Tammi at 09:39 AM | Comments (3)

Better Last Night

Well, things seemed to go better last night. Oh - Cody still raised all sorts of hell at going in the crate, but it didn't last long.

I did get the wind up alarm clock and really do believe it helped. I also put one of my old blankets in there and he seemed to like that.

I have noticed that he cries when he has to go out. However - the kicker is that the little bugger is a whiner. I can't tell the difference between the "Gotta Go" whine and the "pay attention to me" whine. So....we did have a couple of accidents. Damn But it's getting better.

Oh - and he's starting to like the walks. He actually stays right behind my left foot as we walk. I'm so hoping the training will be easy. He seems pretty smart.

Anyway - I still can't upload any pictures so here's another link to yahoo photos - it's my baby at his best.

Cody Sleeping!!

Quick - while he's still out, I've got to get dressed and ready for work!!

Posted by Tammi at 09:13 AM | Comments (2)

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:

We all have a favorite piece of clothing....that comfy shirt, pants, sweats...that you just can't get rid of - that you automatically grab on those days you just NEED to relax?

For me - it's my oversized denim shirts. They are all the same, just different logos stitched on. Soft, worn, light weight denim that I just love. And....because they are all so oversized - even I feel small. Maybe that's what I like the best.

Anyway - what is you're favorite "comfy" clothes?

Posted by Tammi at 08:34 AM | Comments (8)

Liv Kicks It

Chapter 5 of the Blog Noir is up at Liv's place, not a shrinking violet - and it has got some serious punch to it. I mean some serious punch! What a great read!

Only one more chapter. Next week is the big finale!

Here are the first four chapters....for those that have not been following along at home.

Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four

I can't wait for next Friday - but damn.....that means it's finished. Talked about a mixed bag!

Great job Liv!! Thank you!

Posted by Tammi at 07:12 AM | Comments (1)

Whew

After the greeting at the smoke shop yesterday I was almost afraid to see how this quiz I found over at John's place would turn out.

Your Brain is 80.00% Female, 20.00% Male

Your brain leans female

You think with your heart, not your head

Sweet and considerate, you are a giver

But you're tough enough not to let anyone take advantage of you!

What Gender Is Your Brain?

Whew. I'm so relieved.

Posted by Tammi at 08:31 PM | Comments (4)

I wanna live.....

_Jon at We Swear asks the following:

What I'd like to know, though, is about you.
- Why do you live where you live?
- Where would you like to live?
- What is keeping you from living there, really?

This is an easy one for me.

I live in FLORIDA because it's what I've always wanted. My family knew that as soon as I could I'd leave No. Indiana and move to Florida. I've always said that. Then...I got married and everyone breathed a sigh of relief. Ahhhh She's staying. NOPE. I left as soon as the judge in my divorce case said I could. But here's the kicker.

I moved to Bradenton Florida. NOT Orlando. Big Big Difference.

I hate Orlando. I hate Central Florida. I love Bradenton. The beaches, the Gulf, the people, the pace. Not here. Not Orlando.

I love watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. I love the warmth. I love the trees and landscape. I even love the humidity.

The reason I don't live there right now is the job market. I couldn't find a job. So I had to move. But you can tell when I'm making calls down there. I'm happier - Hell, I'm down right joyful.

So I settle. I'm in Florida - I can get to Bradenton every now and again. I guess I'm luckier than most.

Posted by Tammi at 05:00 PM | Comments (2)

Lookie Who I Found

Seems that stealthy commentor has gone and started his own blog....

Contagion is posting over at Spoon and Blade - blogspot!

I have enjoyed Contagion's comments for a long while. And I AM THRILLED that he has his own site. (despite the sick and twisted way it came about)

And he's asking for helping naming his Blog. Head on over, read a bit and offer your suggestion! Just think - you could be a part of history!!!!

I won't say congratulations to him for getting started - instead I'll say Thank You! Thank you for what, I am sure, is going to be some interesting reads!! ;-)

**note: thanks to losing my internet last night/this morning this didn't get posted when it should have. (well, and I had to get puppy pictures posted or TNT would fly back down here and kick my a$$)

Posted by Tammi at 11:58 PM | Comments (0)

Well Shit

I ran out of cigarettes. No big deal. Just throw on a sweater and some jean and off I go to the smoke shop.

I've been a regular there since I moved in last year.

They have a new girl working the counter. I hadn't met her yet.

I walked in this morning and this is the greeting I get:

Good morning Sir.

son of a gun.....THATS a hell of a way to start your day!

Posted by Tammi at 09:08 AM | Comments (8)

So What do you think?

Woke up in the middle of the night (~3:00am) STARVING. Just. Starving.

So I had a bowl of ice cream.

But....here's my question.....do I count the caleries as part of Wednesday or Thursday?

I think it should be Wednesday - after all the sun had not yet dawned on a new day.....well, that and I had was low on caleries for that day!

Yeah, I think it should count on Wednesday - cool.........now I can have a fun lunch!

Posted by Tammi at 08:39 AM | Comments (7)

Huh! Ya Think?!?

Found this over at the Cheesemistress's place!

What Flavour Are You? Buzz buzz, I am Coffee flavoured.

Buzz buzz, I am Coffee flavoured.

I am popular in the workplace, even though I am often bitter. I am energetic to the point of being frenetic; buzz buzz, out of my way. I tend to overwork myself and need periods of recovery time. What Flavour Are You?

I wanted to be something cool like alcohol!

Posted by Tammi at 12:04 AM | Comments (6) | TrackBack

WHAT Will They Think of NEXT!!

So...have you heard of Chronic Candy? NO? Well let me tell you what it is....

A company that makes, amoung other things. suckers that taste like Marijuana. Yeah - the tag line is "Every Lick is Like Taking a Hit."

And there are other flavors too.....

Here's the video clip from Tampa Bay Channel 10's story.

It's legal because it's THC free and doesn't get you intoxicated..... but I gotta say - I have a problem with this!

I'm thinking back - and if I remember correctly marijuana doesn't taste very good! I thought it was actually an aquired taste......is it possible that this candy to lead to "candy"?!?!

But wait....am I just getting old? I remember candy cigarettes. I had them, I loved them. But looking back - it wasn't for the taste. (Even though they did taste pretty good.) I thought they were cool and yes - I did start smoking at an early age. But was it because of the candy cigarettes on because I wanted to?

So.....I'm just saying.....you might just want to make sure you pay plenty of attention to the candy suckers that the children in your life are enjoying. If nothing else this Chronic Candy is certainly causing a buzz!!

Posted by Tammi at 11:05 PM | Comments (2)

It's So Nice

I love LeeAnn and Dogger's home. I love spending time here, I love spending time with THEM. We had a wonderful evening (despite Tammi's oops with the chocolate martini's) except for missing Dogger. We got to talk with him, but it just wasn't the same. Soon.

Anyway - it's amazing to me how similar LeeAnn and I are when it comes to what we like. She has a fantastic collection of Jack Vettriano (link updated thanks to Harvey!) posters framed. That is exactly the art work I want for my bedroom. We both have Monet's throughout our homes. We did that before we knew each other. Heh.

But it's the comfort level I feel with them. On every level. They love me for exactly who and what I am, was and will be. Kinda cool - heh.

I know I often times talk about drinking, and trust me folks - I LOVE TO DRINK. BUT that being said, I am very careful to NOT drink too much unless I know someone has my back. I need to know that no matter how silly I am they will save me from myself. I also need to know that if I do let my guard down they will make sure NO ONE ELSE will hurt me. I made the mistake, once, of thinking I could trust someone and letting my guard down, having too good a time, and well....let's just say I still struggle with that.

So......for me to drunk blog from here - you know I was in a very happy place. I just LOVE her!!

Today is driving, driving - lots of calls and some time at Kinkos. I need to be back at the house by 9:00 tonite, to finish puppy proofing the house. Tomorrow is PUPPY DAY!! I'm so excited.

But.....I wanted to take just a couple of minutes, first thing this morning to tell you what a wonderful evening I had, how lucky I am to have LeeAnn as a friend and to wish you this kind of comfort. It's a very good thing.

Posted by Tammi at 07:32 AM | Comments (3)

Checking In

I'm gonna need to tell ya about my evening...yep...

First off. Please note that LeeAnn got me drunk. It's all her fault. I was happy with an appletini, but nooooooo. She had to order a Chocolate Martini - and of course, so that she didn't feel awkward, I had one too.

Holy Crap. That was about the strongest cholocalte martini I've ever had. But just to be sure....I had another.

Please note: I had 1 chicken strip in the past 24 hours prior to having said drink. Yeah - I guess this would qualify as drunk blogging.

We are having a wonderful evening. We got a chance to talk with Dogger! He's doing well, but we miss him terribly. We went out for Italian.....and it was very yummy.

Now we are back at her house and getting ready for some juicy girl talk. WooHoo! But just wanted you all to know...we're having a very nice evening.

Posted by Tammi at 09:08 PM | Comments (8)

Now Wait Just a Cotton Pickin' Minute

I'm ALL about airport security. That being said....this does NOT make me happy.

Beginning April 14, 2005 ALL cigarette lighters will be banned on commercial airlines.

**scowling**

OK - I'm no longer allowed to smoke in most airports. I can live with that. But....when I get off the damned plane I go where ever I need to go so that I can have a cigarette. I will go back out through security and re-enter no problem. I stand outside in all types of weather - no problem. But now they are saying I cannot carry a lighter on my person. That means I have to buy one everywhere I go.

All because of that flippin' shoe bomber - bastard. They say if he had access to a lighter rather than matches he may have been successful.

Oh - they are still allowing matches - until they have an opportunity to garner public opinion. Matches....what the heck do they even look like? It's been so long since I've used one.....In fact - I hate matches! I always end up burning myself, a piece of clothing, a rug.....it's just not a good thing for me. And just TRY to light a flippin' match outside in the wind, rain, ect.

Just give me 5 mins alone in a room with this SOB - especially after having flown cross country, without a flippin' cigarette - just 5 mins. What he attempted to do is enough, in my opinion, to put him out of our misery. This...this is just the straw that broke the camels back.

I know I know.....it's for the greater good. But that doesn't mean I've got to like it.

Damn, just damn!

Posted by Tammi at 09:50 AM | Comments (7)

Just an Old Fashioned Girl

I'm just hanging on their skirt tales! Today Christina and the indomitable demystifying divas are tackling the subject of casual sex. And they do a damned good job of it.

For me - I have to be very honest. No. It's just not an option.

I'm a very old fashioned girl at heart. Oh, I have a very earthy sense of humor and am a very sensual person - casual sex is just not something I can handle.

The funny thing is I don't know where this thinking came from. Mama was waaayyyyy to shy to have "the talk". In fact - the only conversation we ever had that comes close to discussing this was short and to the point.

Mama: If I find out you're screwin' around - I'll sew you shut. Understand?
Me: *head nodding*

Yeah - that was about it. Like I said - short and to the point.

I ran with a very wild crew. I was the only virgin in the group. We all went skinny dippin' and had drunken parties - and everyone knew, Tammi doesn't do "that". There was never any problem with it.

One morning - after a particularly drunken evening I woke up in bed, naked, with one of the guys from our "group". Standing around the bed were a bunch of our friends....All trying to decide "did they or didn't they". It was quickly determnined that no they didn't. Both of us were too damned drunk to do anything and plus - he was more a brother than a friend....ewwwwww

I have never been one that is comfortable with casual sex. Ever. It's too personal, too private. In my mind it's a gift, shared between two people. It needs a commitment, it needs time to really become great. Not to mention the intellectual side of it. The knowledge that it MEANS something to the other person, it's freeing. Plus....the anticipation, the building of desire that comes with courtship - that makes it all the better. Yeah - maybe that's what keeps me on the "old fashioned" side of things.

Now....I have never forced my opinions on others. Hell growing up most of my girl friends would screw anything with three legs. After my divorce I found out I was still out of touch - as the majority of the girls I knew were still doing the same thing my high school friends had done. I don't have a problem with that. It's their lives, their bodies.

One girl and I used to go out clubbing every Friday night. Get all gussied up and hit our favorite spots for drinkin' and dancin'. We get through the door and she'd head off in her direction and I in mine. Mine was the bar. I'd grab a stool and smile sweetly at the bartender. I'd get my drink and my protector for the evening. She on the other hand was on the prowl. It usually ended up with her coming back to the club to pick me up when it closed down. We knew it would shake out like this and as long as I knew whether I needed to call a cab or not all was fine. Again - her life, her body.

It's just not me. I also know it's one reason I don't date a lot. I had a guy tell me once that some girls you just don't play with - to him I fall in that category. I'll also admit that I sometimes wish I wasn't cut from that cloth....but I am. It's who I am. If I try to change that part of me, the cloth will no longer fit and I will be more uncomfortable than I can imagine.

Posted by Tammi at 08:54 AM | Comments (8)

Tammi's World

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