Tammi's World

Whirl

I keep telling folks I'm ALL about the people - and this weekend it was. Holy Shit folks.

You see, there was this get together.....it was fantastic. And I really want to tell you all about it. And I'm going to. Actually I need to - so many thoughts and images in my head.

But there are a couple of issues. One...my keyboard is screwed up. No. Really, it's the keyboard. Trust me. Anyway - I don't have time to figure out what is wrong....which leads to Two....my landlord sold the duplex I live in. I find out as I'm getting out of the car after driving 12 hours that not only do I need to get everything "inspection worthy" but the new landlord is raising my rent. Trust me when I tell you this place is barely worth what I'm paying now.....

So - let me just put a couple of teasers out there regarding the weekend......Eric and his wonderful wife are the host and hostess of dreams. Beautiful home, incredible scenerie, great food his ribs are better than mine and patience. Patience. Patience. It was just such a great time. I can never thank you enough.

I got to hug my girl. I hadn't seen Bou in a little over 6 months. Oh, we talk - but I got to hug her. AND her sister. I love them. I just flat out love them. Bou and I hung out in the kitchen for a bit as normal for us and then we just got to chill. But best of all - I could just look across the room and see her. I could listen and hear her laugh. THAT ROCKED.

Sissy made the trip. All the way from Yuma. I'm so glad. I got to hug her too.... We roomed together so we got to talk and giggle like school girls ok, I did but she is trooper to put up with me I just love spending time with her. And she made me be all girly and stuff....but it was fun.

I had the honor of getting to listen and even sing a tune or two with Jimbo and Denny. Holy Shit them boys ROCK. It was killing me not knowing the lyrics. I'm gonna have to work on that.....I forgot how wonderful it is to just make music.

Oh - and I got to run my fingers through Jimbo's Great Farookin' Hair. And it's everything they say it is........

I got to meet, face to face, my BlogDaughter Army Wife. One of the most wonderful women I've had the opportunity to meet. All smiles and laughter, caring and, well, genuine goodness. I. Love. Her. Take her blog...multiply it by 100 and you get a glimpse, just a glimpse of how great she is.

Holy cow - I just keep going on and on......and this is supposed to just be a teaser - kinda like normal for me. I gotta go. Damnit.

Anyway - I had the opportunity to meet Key and her charming Husband, Princess Cat, Zonker, Redneck, and RSM. Spent time with Blackfive, Harvey, TNT, John and Beth, and Johnny Oh. DAMNIT - I know I'm missing some... Poor T1G was stuck driving the 12 hour one way drive with me. It'll be interesting to see if he ever talks to me again. kidding I got stories to tell and those will be posted tonite. Meanwhile - I gotta get busy....

But I just had to tell you - I had the best time.......Because you see, it really is all about the people.

Resting

I have one good thing to say about spam. While cleaning it up I have the chance to go back and read many of my previous posts. Damn - I used to be pretty good.

I had so much to share - stories of my travels, sales, people, restaurants I found, politics. Stuff.

And I got to thinking why I feel so different now. And it hit me...

Back then, while I had a lot going on I had no life. All I did most of the time was work. By the time I started my first blog I was living in Tampa, away from most of my friends and family. Lonely doesn't begin to cover it. I was on the road selling full time and, while having many conversations, all were petty and shallow. I got home to an empty house and it made me crazy.

I am a people person. I thrive on the eye to eye contact. The touch, the subtleness of real conversation. I wasn't getting any of that. So I blogged.

Through the blog I could share the good and bad days. And almost always there was a comment left to make me feel better. I would return from a trip and SOMEONE was glad I was back. Even if just cyberly.

Now - I am starting to have a life. I have interaction with people I enjoy. It's the normalcy I've been craving all of my adult life. So it leaves very little to blog about. (You do realize I don't blog everything - right?!?)

So this is what I'm gonna do. I'm gonna just let things sit for a while. Oh, I'll post when I have something I want to share. I'll absolutely be reading and commenting. But my own writing? Probably slim to none.

It's been grand. I've made some of the best friends I've ever had. I just really want the chance to enjoy them. It's that person to person I've craved. It's a good thing.

Not Complaining

I hear my house in Florida is gone now. Hit by a Big T during Wilma. Huh. Kinda glad I wasn't there for THAT.

Then I talk with a girl I used to work with. As bad as it was during the hurricanes last year - it's worse now - business wise. There is a foam shortage. So everyone's sales are down. No pity pay this time. Oh, and you better hit your flippin' numbers or you'll be on the street. Kinda glad I'm not there for THAT.

My last boss was mean. Not in a whiney girl kinda way - I'm talking cruel. When I saw his number on my phone my stomach hurt. He yelled, he screamed, he insulted, he humiliated. He was not a nice man.

My current boss - not the sharpest tool in the shed. But I'll take that over mean any day of the week.

So today I'm out on the road calling on some of my customers. Introducing myself and learning their business. Offering new opportunities. Outside sales.

With my boss.

It's gonna be a long, long day. But the worst thing I've got to worry about is him embarrassing me with ridiculous questions/comments. And, for what it's worth, I've got a home to return to.

I'm kinda glad I'm HERE for that.

I'm Exhausted!!

FINALLY!! Three evenings spent cleaning out the spam trackbacks and comments.

Son. Of. A. Bitch.

I hate that stuff. Over 100 a day - just in trackbacks. Those take forEVER to get rid of.

So......got a bit of a late morning tomorrow. I'll get some posts up then. Right now - I'm too busy trying to find out what the hell's going on with the White Sox.

Just Pray

Wilma is tearing through South Florida. But it's not just South Florida that's suffering. I just heard that a Big T went through the housing development that I lived in. In Orlando. As of midnight there had been over 300 lightening strikes.

This storm is big, mean and nasty. The back half of the storm is every bit as bad as the front.

Bou's dad will update as he knows anything. West Palm, Miami and that area is getting hit pretty bad right now. Naples has taken a beating. The Keys are flooded.

Check out the map of Florida bloggers - keep checking on them. But most of all - keep praying.

That's Two!

SLAM!!

I was driving through Chicago when the Sox had a grand slam in the 7th to go ahead. I about wrecked the car. I swear I could hear That 1 Guy screaming all the way from Stillman Valley! Then the reception on the car radio got spotty. Next time I picked up the station it was all tied up! DAMN IT. Then I lost the game all together - just as the Sox were coming up to the bottom of the 9th.

I couldn't get home fast enough. Sure enough - SOX WIN. 7-6.

But you know what? You really need to head over to a REAL fan's place. I just can't do it all justice.

Hunker Down

Wilma is coming. No doubt about it.

Bou, as always, is way ahead of the game. She is basically hurricane central for Florida bloggers.

In case you haven't seen it - here's her map of Florida showing where the different Fl. bloggers are located. Keep checking with her as she will keep up on the posting where everything is.

As for me - I hate this. I sit here in Northern Illinois helpless. I have family down there - my closest friends are down there. It's still HOME to me. I NEED to help.

I've already decided I'm going to do everything I can to get down there. Not right away. But by next Monday I will be in Florida with a car loaded with water and batteries, diapers, formula and anything else I can get crammed in the trunk. I need to help my family and friends dig out. I need to volunteer to do something. Not sure how my boss will take this - but I'll be having that discussion with him this week.

I have enough sense, and having been through this a few times, I know I would only be in the way right away. But if there is any way to make it happen 1) I'll find it & 2) I'll do it.

Y'all be safe down there. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Wisdom......

So I"m here in Indiana, kind of a Birthday weekend as it were. Yesterday my baby sister turned 40 years old. It just can't be possible. Hell - I remember where our Mother turned 40!!

Anyway, we had a wonderful meal of homemade tamales and pineapple cake. Afterwards, my sister, the firefighter decides she wants us all to watch a movie together. OK - her birthday, it's whatever she wants. She wants to watch Ladder 49. I didn't have the heart to tell her I had just watched it the night before.

It's a pretty cool movie - not all action packed but does a fairly good job of showing the life of a firefighter. It's a great flick to watch with HER.

After the movie, she and I are sitting around talking. She finally admits she'd had a very trying day. Ahhh. I hate to hear that on someone's birthday. So I ask what happened. Here is where you begin to see that maybe we really are sisters on some deeper level.

Seems she was cleaning up her house yesterday. Had the vaccum out and was sweeping up the ashes in the fireplace. Except she had a small fire going. Yes, you guessed it. She accidently "sucked up" a hot ember. Turns around and the vaccum is on fire. :-) What could I say?

THEN...and yes there is more.....Then she's on the phone. Doesn't have a cordless right now so she has the wall unit model with the long, long cord. She also has a thing about not turning on her furnace until Thanksgiving. So she has space heaters. She's talking on the phone when all of a sudden it goes dead. She fiddles with the handset. Nothing. She looks back at the wall unit. Looks ok. Then she follows the cord. Everything is fine until she gets about half way back. Did you know phone cords melt when suspended just above a space heater for an extended amount of time? Yeah, well, they do.

My sister - the firefighter. Set's her vaccum on fire and melts a phone cord. Like I said - MY sister.

Happy Birthday Darlin!!! Let's just hope we really do get wiser with age. ;-)

That's One!

SOX WIN GAME ONE!!

CWS 5
Houston 3

Just Life

Wow! It's Saturday!?!? All week it seemed like I was a day behind and then next thing I know it's the weekend. How did that happen??

This morning (as usual) I'm running late. Loading the car (ok - when I'm done blogging and drinking coffee I'll load the car) to head to Mama's house. I'm not going to be able to get over there next weekend and that's her Birthday, plus today is my Sister's 40th birthday so I need to get my self on over there.

I'm going to be leaving Cody there for a couple of weeks. That will certainly be an adjustment. As much as he drives me crazy this place is going to be wierd without him.

Yesterday afternoon headed over to the Mississippi River to see the fall colors. The drive was fantastic. Colors everywhere you looked. Some places, you'd come to the top of a hill and it would just take your breathe away. It would have been P.E.R.F.E.C.T. if it hadn't been cloudy. Hit the lookout point at what should have been sunset. Still beautiful. But throw in a sunset and, well.......

Gonna make a big pan of lasanga tomorrow when I get back. I haven't made that in forever. Just sounds good.

I did find out about my ND/UT tickets. My sister really came through. Over the tunnel, on the fringe of the north endzone. 27 rows up and seats 5 & 6. Oh. My. Goodness. November 5. I can't believe I'm finally going to a Notre Dame game. Wow.

About the opprotunity. I want to thank you all for your support in this. The comments and emails I've received were wonderful. However - they were making their decision this week. I've heard nothing and not received a call back from my inquiry. I'm writing it off. Oh-they could just be running behind. The cogs in the big wheel that is corporate America run slow - but I just can't keep waiting. And waiting. It's easiest for me to shut the door. It helps my sanity. At least it wasn't my only hope. I've got a job. There's a plan. I know that - I just don't know what the plan is. So I'll keep plodding along and see where I end up.

Sorry about the lack of Saturday Questions lately - I just haven't had any ideas. I'm hoping to get that up and running again soon. Looking for some inspiration!

That's about all I got here in Tammi's World. Just life. With all it's twists and turns, ups and downs. It's fine. It's all fine. It'll be just fine.

Protector

I wanted a dog for a couple of reasons.

One was for the company. It gets really lonely sometimes, and let's face it. NO ONE is happier to see you at the end of a day than your dog.

But, living alone I also wanted some protection. Something between me and any "issues" that might develop.

Enter Cody. Well, he is friendly. (NO humpin' comments - stop!!) He is always happy to see me when I come home. (No, seriously - shush!)

We've been walking at night. I live in a small town, pretty safe. We've been exploring. The other night I went to an area I hadn't been before. Damn - who knew we had bars in town!! I had no idea!! We're walking through "downtown" and hit a darkened residential area. The only lights were the Halloween decorations so it was kinda cool. As we approach a corner, out of no where steps this guy. (OK - he was blocked by the tree and we couldn't see him, but it seemed like out of no where.) He was dressed completely in Camo and didn't made a sound as he walked. Cody never heard him coming - I had no clue.

Both Cody and I jumped. I slipped my hand into my pocket and grasped my metal flashlight - just in case.

My fearless dog? My protector? Yeah - he jumped up on me trying to get me to pick him up. 38 lbs of scaredy dog.

Oh well - it was a good workout carryin' him the 2 blocks home.

Not So Bad

Tomorrow is my sister's 40th birthday. She called me yesterday and asked me "when does it get better?".

So, being the warm, loving supportive sister that I am I share my best advice.

"Shut up, suck it up. It's all fine. Get over yourself."

(I know, my way with words is a gift!)

But seriously - my 40s have been great. I feel better about myself than I ever have. Oh, I struggle with the fact that my body is changing a bit, and no I'm not thrilled with those changes. BUT......I don't know - I can't explain it. I feel more feminine, sexier, wiser - I LIKE my 40s.

The best part is that some of the stupid things I used to obsess over don't matter at all. It's kinda like I woke up one morning with a whole new perspective. And I LIKE it.

I just wish I could help her see that it really does only get better with time!!!

My Life

I got this email from my (blogless) niece. I can see this happening in my life. Yes, yes I can.

A successful rancher died and left everything to his devoted wife.
She was a very good-looking woman, and determined
to keep the ranch, but knew very little about ranching, so
she decided to place an ad in the newspaper for a ranch hand.

Two men applied for the job. One was gay and the
other a drunk.

She thought long and hard about it, and when no
one else applied she decided to hire the gay guy, figuring it would
be safer to have him around the house than the drunk.

He proved to be a hard worker who put in long
hours every day and knew a lot about ranching.

For weeks, the two of them worked, and the ranch
was doing very well. Then one day, the rancher's widow said
to the hired hand, "You have done a really good job, and the
ranch looks great. You should go into town and kick up your
heels."

The hired hand readily agreed and went into town
one Saturday night.
One o'clock came, however, and he didn't return.

Two o'clock, and no hired hand.

He returned around two-thirty, and upon entering
the room, he found the rancher's widow sitting by the fireplace
with a glass of wine, waiting for him.

She quietly called him over to her. "Unbutton my
blouse and take it off," she said.

Trembling, he did as she
directed. "Now take off my boots." He did as she asked, ever
so slowly.

"Now take off my socks." He removed each gently
and placed them neatly by her boots.

"Now take off my skirt." He slowly unbuttoned it,
constantly watching her eyes in the fire light.

"Now take off my bra." Again, with trembling
hands, he did as he was told and dropped it to the floor.

"Now," she said, "take off my panties." By the
light of the fire, he slowly pulled them down and off.

Then she looked at him and said, "If you ever wear
my clothes into town again, you're fired."

Kinda

Computer training at work for most of the day. Then trying to clean up the mess that was made while someone else answered my calls. Arrgghhh.

Kinda brain dead.

Oh, and no - I haven't heard back from my "opportunity" last week.

Kinda stressed.

Good chance Hurricane Wilma will threaten many, many people that I love.

Kinda worried.

My Town

In an effort to wear my dog out.....we went on an hour walk this evening after I got home from work. Well, actually it was more like a run. Damn...that dog is STRONG!

I have to admit it's the first walk we've gone on since we moved here. Usually I am very lazy and just put him outside to run, bark and generally terrorize everything within his reach. But I need more exercise, and I was hoping it would calm him down a bit.

Shhhhh.....I think it's working! YEAH!!! Well, shit - there he goes again.

Anyway - we walked places I hadn't been to yet in town. Oh, it's a very small town - I haven't been there because I am a creature of habit. I drive the same way to the store, the same way to the gas station and the same way to work. Yep, that's me - walkin' on the wild side.

As we walked in the dark, the leaves crunching under our feet it was very cool. Folks have their Halloween decorations out. It seems so strange to see the fall leaves and the halloween. Seriously - not many fall colors (naturally) in Central Florida. I forgot how beautiful it is.

There was a house with a bon fire. Oops - we all know how Cody loves bonfires. That was a struggle keeping him on track. I think he just wanted to stop and have a beer - but I persuaded him to keep going. (ALWAYS have a pocket full of cookies. Works every time with him!)

Imagine my surprise as I turn a corner and there is a HUGE Tampa Bay Buc's flag!! This time he was pulling ME along. I wanted to go up, knock on the door and introduce myself!! A piece of home. :-)

Anyway - we walked and walked and walked. It was very nice. I'm actually really looking forward to doing it again tomorrow night. Only this time I think we'll turn LEFT at the stop sign. Wonder what I'll find down THERE!!

Well THAT'S a Surprise!!

Your Career Type: Enterprising

You are engertic, ambitious, and sociable. Your talents lie in politics, leading people, and selling things or ideas. You would make an excellent: Auctioneer - Bank President - Camp Director City Manager - Judge - Lawyer Recreation Leader - Real Estate Agent - Sales Person School Principal - Travel Agent - TV Newscaster The worst career options for your are investigative careers, like mathematician or architect.

Found at BlogDaughter Machelle's.

Not Happy With Myself

I am really not very pleased with myself right now.

I haven't been to the gym since I hurt my ankle. It's pretty healed up right now - so I have no excuse.

AND I haven't been watching what I eat to well either. OK - I'm watchin', watching it go straight to my hips and thighs.

THEN I get this email from my (still blogless) niece. I saw this picture and thought - well SHIT. That's exactly what I would look like if I were hangin' on the beach in Florida 'bout now.

Damn

I Missed It!!

Damn!! I'm just not paying attention lately.

I just found out (thanks to Laughing Wolf) that yesterday was Jim's (of that famous Parkway Rest Stop) Birthday!!

Damn!! How did I miss that?!?!?!

Happy (belated) Birthday Jimbo!!

My .02 cents worth

Harvey points us to a great post over at Random Firing of Neurons. It's about one of my most favorite things in life.

Coffee.

Actually AJ gives some fantastic advise. I agree with just about everything. Just about. And my differences may be because I'm just "a good 'ole girl".

I love coffee. I love the frangrance, the flavor, everything. There is not a scent that makes me smile as quickly as that of coffee.

I have one of those grind and brew pots. Every morning I awaken to the sweet sound of coffee beans grinding. It makes getting up a lot more pleasant. I KNOW I'm in for a treat.

I am picky about my beans. My favorite are Costa Rican beans. But I do enjoy some of the flavored stuff. One of my job opportunities way back when was with a company that sells the flavors. It was fascinating learning how they do that.

I don't do Folgers or Maxwell House (except at work or Mama's house) and I very rarely do the fancy coffee houses.

I *AM* a coffee snob - and proud of it. But AJ - you taught me something!!!

I suggest you head on over and read what they have to say - not only informative but damned entertaining!!!

OK - gotta go. Coffee's done!!!!

Coincidence?

I may just be "lucky". I seem to bring luck to the places I live. (Sports wise that is!)

For instance - while living in the Tampa Bay area - the Bucs won the SuperBowl and the Lightening won the Stanley Cup.

Not Bad.

Now.....the Sox have clinched the AL Pennent and are heading for the World Series.

You can thank me later!

WooHoo!!

I just got 2 prime tickets to the ND vs UT game!!

I'm going to a Notre Dame Home Game!!

Finally. Finally. Finally.

AND it's against the team that caused me great embarrassement last year!!!

I'm am actually going to see the Notre Dame Fighting Irish play - LIVE.

I've been a fan my whole life. I grew up right by ND. And I have never ever been to a game.

I am very excited. Can ya tell? ;-)

Quiet Football Sunday - Updated

**Update: let's see how I did on my picks - shall we?!?!**

This week it's just Cody and I for football Sunday. Kinda quiet, but should still be a good day.

My takes for this week? So glad you asked.

The Falcons will take New Orleans. I don't even think this one will be close. Well, Falcons win but it was VERY CLOSE!! Damn, right down to a field goal.

Carolina vs Detroit could be a toss up. In fact I'm going with the Lions on this. Too much going on with Carolina. Detroit had it, right up to the end. I flipped over to ck my Bucs and flip back - Carolina wins?!?!?

Bengals over Titans. No doubt in my mind. Finally - one I called correctly with no sweat.

Browns over Ravens. Why? I don't know - just a feeling. That feeling must have been gas - Ravens win 16-3.

I think Pitt will lose to the Jags. Tommy Maddox? No...not so much. Pitt's in trouble. Jville wins - but what a flippin' game!! Pitt did Much better than I had reason to hope. This is one I wouldn't mind having been wrong about.

The Bears WILL beat the Vikings. Between the cruise crap and the fact that the Vikings just can't get their shit together on the field the Vikings don't look to be much of a challenge. Especially with the defense the Bears have put together. Da Bears!! YEAH!!

Giants over Dallas. Partly because I hate Dallas. But I just think the Giants have pulled it together. Manning to Burress is a great match!! Add in that cutie pie Tiki Barber (who usually plays very well against them Cowboys) and it's a recipe for a win. Another incredible game. I really thought the Giants would win....damn them C'boys anyway.

I think the 'Skins will take the Chiefs. Even though Gonzalez will finally be allowed to play HIS game, I just don't think it will be enough for a victory. KC did it - another one I'm glad to be wrong about. Never have been a big 'Skins fan.

Denver WILL beat New England. 'Nuff said. Yep. Denver won

Jets over the Bills. (Sorry GEBIV). Well, I missed that one too.

The Chargers will crush the Raiders. San Diego is looking GREAT and I think they will end up running all over those Raiders. Chargers took that one!!

Indy will beat the Rams, but I think that should be one hell of a game. (Of course, it's MNF and I. Can't. Watch.)

Houston will lose to the SeaHawks. Joe J. is looking very good - and he is one of my favorite Recievers. (what a nice boy he is). So yes, this is sentimental - but so what. I'm a girl! Sue Me.

Finally - last but not least - The Buc's SHOULD - I say SHOULD - beat Miami. It'll be a game. Miami vs TB usually is. BUCS WIN!! BUCS WIN!!!

But then again - you already know who I'll be screamin' for!!!!

Just a story

I have a mandolin that I am rather fond of. Oh, I don't play it. It's in my wall unit - protected. But the story of how I got that mandolin is pretty cool.

I don't think I've blogged the whole story yet. I looked and didn't find anything - but if I'm repeating myself................tough. ;-)

I try to sing at Mama's church at least once a year. It makes her happy and I actually enjoy it. So one year just before Christmas I schedule my annual performance.

The church was pretty full that morning and as I looked out at the congregation I spotted an old, dear friend of Daddy's. I hadn't seen him in years! He seemed surprised to see me up there singing.

After service he came up to give me a hug and then asked if he could drop by that afternoon. He had a surprise for me.

After lunch, as we were washing up the dishes, the doorbell rang. I invited him in and we all settled into the living room. He had a box. He told me before he gave me what was in the box he needed to explain.

About a year before Daddy died they were out in our garage doin' "guy stuff" and laughing. Daddy found a box on a shelf, opened it up and started grinning. Seems the box held a mandolin. But, as with many things Daddy was fond of, there was a story.

Back in the mid '30s, at the height of the depression, Daddy was a young lad of 4 or 5. Grandpa was a preacher and a farmer - there were only 5 children at the time (Daddy being the youngest) so there was plenty of work on the farm.

One day a man came walking up the drive carrying a bundle. The man saw Grandpa out by the barn and went over to talk. Seems he was just wandering - had nothing left except that bundle. It was getting close to winter and he was looking for a place to hunker down. Would Grandpa let him stay at the farm in return for him helping out with chores.

Grandpa agreed and they made him a place in the barn.

Seems Daddy took a real shine to this guy. Followed him everywhere. In the evenings, after chores were done, they would sit out in that area of the barn and the man would play his mandolin and teach Daddy songs. Daddy was fascinated with that mandolin.

Come spring, the man got sick. It was over quickly and Grandpa had him buried in a plot there at the farm. No one ever knew much about him, and he never gave more than his name. No idea about where he came from, his family - nothing.

Since Daddy was so attached to that mandolin, Grandma (much out of character) put it up for him so it wouldn't get ruined. When he moved out years later she gave it to him. He had kept it all those years, in a box, on the shelf. Just because.

Then he asked his friend if he wanted it. Seems Daddy never learned how to play it and it seemed a shame to just keep it boxed up, not being appreciated. So it passed hands again.

Fast forward over 25 years. This friend was cleaning out his attic and came across the mandolin. Deciding to give it to his daughter he took it with him to church. Enter Tammi. Seems he didn't know about me and my music. To hear him tell it, as I stood there singing he knew that mandolin was mine.

I don't have many things that belonged to my Father. But I can't think of anything more appropriate than that mandolin. I have it in my wall unit. When I move it is wrapped carefully and always carried in my front seat. I can't play it - no skill but it also needs work before it gets handled much. But that's ok. It's the meaning - not the condition.

Why am I telling you this today? Well, I don't know many things about Daddy's childhood. In fact this is the only story I've ever heard. And it's his birthday. Today he would be 75 years old. So I thought it the perfect time to share.

Happy Birthday Daddy!

7 Things

SarahK is "bugging" me......

AND I've been tagged by AlliCadem over at Can I Have Some Whine....

Actually this is a help. My "about me" post didn't make the switch from the old blog so this will kinda fill in......

7 things I want to do before I die:
* Visit the Highlands
* Learn to play the guitar
* Hot Air Balloon Ride
* Own my own home again
* Visit Alaska
* Go to a Notre Dame home game (I've never been!)
* Spend a minimum of a month traveling Europe

7 things I can do:
* Sing
* Make people laugh and feel comfortable
* Cook
* Tell a story/joke
* Talk ;-)
* Analyze
* Dance a mean Cha-Cha

7 things I cannot do:
* Fix things - mechanical or "handy"
* Train my dog
* Math - without a calculator or Excel
* Directions - the whole N S E W thing is WAY over rated
* Betray a friend/loved one
* Hide my emotions
* Not yell at sporting events

7 things I say a lot:
* This is what I'm gonna need for you to do...
* I gotta tell ya....
* You Rock
* I need for you to know....
* No. And No again
* Not so much...
* Oops (for a multitude of reasons)

7 things I find attractive in a male:
* humor
* kindness
* honor
* loyalty
* height (hey, it's me, what do you expect?!?)
* intelligence
* smile
* eyes - always the eyes

7 celebrity crushes:
* Tom Selleck
* Jimmy Smits
* John Lynch
* Dennis Quad
* Toby Keith
* Adrian Paul - Highlander TV Series
* Pierce Brosnan

7 people I feel like bugging:
* Army Wife
* Talula
* Lee Ann
* Machelle
(why we have kids!)
* Johnny_Oh
* Ogre - yes, I'm a glutton for punishment
* Contagion

**Oh and Ogre - it's 7 things you find attractive in a FEMALE for you guys. Thought I better make that clear given your talent for picking these types of things apart. ;-)

Damn It!!

Notre Dame loses to USC 34-31.

I'm listening to ESPN go on and on and on about what a great game it was. How close it was. How it was the game of the year.

I didn't see 30 seconds of it.

DAMN IT!! All the way around. Just Damn.

Two Days - Just Two Days

I have two days a week that I can get any projects done around the house. Acutally that's not completely true either, as I have at least 1 weekend a month I go to Mama's. Well and Sunday's I usually have football all day. So - I have about 1 day a week to get anything done.

Last Saturday was all about getting information together for that interview. Didn't get much done otherwise.

All week I was looking forward to getting one really big project done around here. My bedroom. I've got very limited closet space and more clothes than any one woman would ever need. (I cannot believe I actually said that out loud.) However, many of them are not going to be worn up here. Nope, they were fine in Florida, but not here. It's different. Oh - and I also have a boatload of shoes I need to sort through. Way too many sandles and mules for the four seasons I'll be seeing each year.

So I have everything tore up. I've prepped all week. Late yesterday afternoon I get a call. Seems the deal for the sale of this obode I am currently dwelling in may have fallen through. They want to show the place. Saturday. 2:30.

Well SHIT! So much for what I wanted to get done. It's just so frustrating.

So - I've picked up the place - but I'm leaving the stuff to sort out in the bedroom. I really don't care what these people think of me. I have got to get this done. It's way past time. And I'm tired of fixing my schedule around everyone elses.

Ok - enough bitchin'. I just needed to get that off my chest.

Reminds me of a Tammi Story

Pammy is in much the same boat I've spent most of my adult life. Living someplace with no close friends nearby.

It's tough making friends. And as each year passes it seems to get tougher.

It reminds me of when I first moved to Bradenton. I had a few people I hung around with - but that was mostly weekend stuff. They were really busy during the week. And I'm kind of a freak about not interrupting family time. So during the week it was usually just me.

There was this waterside bar that I loved. Live music, darts, good drinks and nice bartenders. Just not really a place you could go into by yourself. Especially if you were a woman.

So...fast forward to a Thursday night. (my memory scares me sometimes) Sitting out on the deck listening to some incredible Blues. Drinking a few too many adult beverages and just watching people. I see two women sitting a table away. Laughing, talking - you could tell they were good friends. (NO..not that kind of "good friends".)

Watching them I realized how much I missed having someone to hang out with. Damn.

In my mind I smiled and caught their eye. In my mind I said hello.

In reality - I looked over and hollered "Would you be my friend?"

Yeah - needless to say - they left.

I've got to work on that whole "inside voice/outside voice" thing.

Still, all in all - a pretty funny incident - now.

I'm SOOOO HAPPY!!

One of my favoritest bloggers ever, ever, ever is back.

Sgt. Hook is blogging again!!

Margi - I cannot thank you enough for pointing that out.

Gotta go read and update my links.

He's Back! He's Back. GO. Read. NOW!!!

I Need an Asprin

Stop the flippin' whining - PLEASE!!!!

Cody is makin' me crazy. He is out of control. It's my fault, I know it. I just am not good at training dogs.

This morning he was up at his usual time. 5:00. DAMNIT - it's Saturday!!!!

So I got up, fed him, let him out and made coffee. He was just in to everything so I finally put him in his pen for a rest. No big deal.

Except he hasn't stopped the cryin' in over an hour. I WILL NOT GIVE IN. Since it's just me, and I'm the only that has to listen to him I'm stickin' to my guns. Speaking of which - a beebee sounds pretty good right now. Damned dog.

I've got to get him trained. He wants to be a good dog. I see it in his eyes. He's just got too much energy for such a little place. It's sad. But....reality is not always perfect.

So I sit here - listening to the whimpering from the other room. It's not so heart breaking as it is irratating as hell.

I need some extra strength Bayer about now.

This is gonna be good!

I hate change.

The entire time I was growing up the last game of the college football season was ND vs USC. It has always been my favorite game. The crowning jewel in the season - so to speak.

So for me, it's just really strange that the big game is NOW. Today. It's so early!!

But......the word on the street is if any team has a chance to beat the Trojans it's my Irish.

Either way - it's gonna be one hell of a game!!

DAMN.......I have got to find a way to watch this game.

OH - and how cool is this?!?!? Brady Quinn, Jr. QB, is in the running for the Heisman Trophy. I'd go vote for him but the link they have on the ND site doesn't work. (figures)

But - it all boils down to this #9 Irish take on #1 Trojans in South Bend. A series almost as old as I am. At least it's as old as my memorie. A game that almost never a let down.........

Go Irish!!!!!!!!!!!

A Picture Would Save Me...

....a thousand words. But can I find the damned digital camera? NOOOOO.

So let me see if I can describe this. I was sitting here trying to catch up on some blog reading when I get this prickle on the back of my neck. This eerie feeling.......

So I turn. And look.

It's Cody, lying on the floor, on his back. Holding his favorite stuffed squirrel. Well, what's left of it anyway. The stuffing is laying all over the living room floor. All that is left is the outer shell of what used to be a not cheap stuffed animal toy. DAMNIT! I just bought that for him when he got fixed back in August.

Yesterday he kilt the rabbit. Same thing. Stuffing everywhere and just the outer shell. He still stands by the trash can crying.

Damned dog. I really need to move out to the country so he can hunt. It'd be a whole lot cheaper.

Ouch

My newest blogdaughter - Talula - had a very bad day today.

It started with an accident on her way to work.

She's ok - just sore, shaken and her car don't look so good.

Stop over and cheer her up. (Only she could make this day into a poem).

Does Grey Count?!?!

Your Hair Should Be White

Classy, stylish, and eloquent. You've got a way about you that floors everyone you meet.

H/T Pammy at Lollygaggin...

Happy Birthday

Today is a very special day. Today is Eric's (that Straight White Guy) birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY ERIC!

You know, every once in a while you run across someone who has it all. Charm, wit, intelligence, honor. (Not to metion incredible good looks) The complete package. Add to that the fact that the man and WRITE!! Wow!

It's a rare gift. And when you are lucky enough to count them as a friend - you are certainly blessed.

Eric - you are that special someone. Your talent for story telling is unmatched. Your charm and wit - well, now it's flippin' legendary!! ;-)

My birthday wish for you:

A Birthday Blessing

May your spirit soar gracefully on the whispering breeze.

May your heart guide you truly as the years go by.

Happy Birthday Dude - have a wonderful day!!!

It's Simple - Really

Army Wife needed a new party dress. She found the perfect dress at the perfect price. OUTSTANDING!!! And I do know just how wonderful finding that perfect dress is - remember the wedding a year ago?!? Yeah - I still love the THOUGHT of wearing that dress.

Harvey then raises the white flag and asks for a translation. "What's the male equivalent of finding the perfect dress for $35?"

Everyone had great answers....and they were close. But it's much more base than that.

It's simple - really.

For a guy - it's like getting laid. End of story. Back in my day they called it "scoring". (I hate that term) That's it. We just play on different fields.

Wasted

I completed wasted my evening. Completely.

Leaving work, I had a plan. I stopped at the butcher and bought this gorgeous Sirlion Butt Roast cause I have a hankerin' for pot roast. Had a lovely chat with the gal behind the counter and have some really good ideas for some meals coming up.

Then, driving home I chatted with Sissy - who is safe in Yuma and #1 in the Blogsphere!!!! How cool is THAT!?!?!?! Then Bou called in and we had a nice talk. Although she just makes me feel so LAZY. NOW I'm really feeling guilty! A triathlon?!?! Where DO you get the energy?!?!

Anyway - stopped at the store and picked up baby carrots, a nice sweet onion and some cabbage. Yummy!!!!! I have enough potatoes at the house to feed half of Ireland so I'm good there.

I got home, put stuff away and promptly went to sleep. Didn't do the dishes that are piled in the sink. Didn't put away the clothes piled on the ironing board. Didn't do a damned thing.

Woke up at 3:00 to let Cody out. Checked email and then back to snoozing I went.

I wasted an entire evening. The part the pisses me off the most is that I'm still so damned tired.

I owe emails galore (some really important ones) and there is this great post I'm working up linking some very cool stuff. Of course the rate I'm going everything I want to link will be buried in archives.

The good news is I'm having a killer pot roast tonite.

The Last One - I promise

I am an overly focused person. No doubt about it. I see the trees. Lots and lots of trees - but have to really work at seeing the forest. It really frustrates me sometimes, and I know it makes me a somewhat boring person to be around. And to make it worse, that is VERY evident in my blogging.

So - I just want to apologize, up front, for the lack of content. I can't seem to think about much other than this new opportunity.

I didn't sleep so well last night. Not because I was excited. No, because I was angry. No, not just angry. Scared too. Angry and scared. The perfect formula for insomnia.

I'm angry because I had just come to terms with my life. I had FINALLY worked through the fact that I wasn't going to have a job I loved. I wasn't going to have a career anymore. I acknowledged the fact that what I do from 8-5 does not define who I am as a person. Now - I'm not satisfied. I want more. I want it NOW.

I'm scared because I have hope. I see an opportunity - a light. And I want it. AND I know I stand a chance. But I just don't think I can take the rejection again. The loss.

And that's what it would be. Loss. I just hate that word.

Let's just take it a step further. They have continually stressed that a big part of their decision will be based on how the winner's personality fits into the teams. Personality. Personal. Yep - now it's personal. Have I ever mentioned how I really don't handle rejection very well?!? Yeah, well, I don't.

So.....I just keep rolling this around and around in my mind. And, knowing me I'll continue to do just that for the next 6 days.

Damn.

But I do promise you this - I will not continue to write about it. This WILL be the last post on this subject until I hear their decision.

But damn.

The Waiting Game

So it begins. The wait.

I have to say the day itself went pretty well - except for when I ran out of money and had to ask T1G to pick up my tab. Damnit

Once everything came together on the presentation I was on a roll. I took my shower and cleaned up half way decent for an old white lady. I actually got to the office over an hour early. HUGE bonus points as they were wanting to have an early day if possible.

The interview itself seemed to go fairly well. But keep in mind - I'm talking to a couple of professional sales people (or charming liars as some people refer to them) so it's hard to get a good read. I got through the presentation and it went, while not as well as I would have liked, pretty darn good.

I spoke with a friend that works in that company and knows all the players. He made me replay the whole thing blow by blow. All he kept saying is - Ohhh good answer!! Damn, perfect! So I guess by his standards I did alright.

I know I showed that I have the skill set. No doubt there. I really think they realize that I'm willing to work. My history shows that. The big unknown is how I fit in the team. I have no way to know how my personality was recieved.......

So they will be making the next cut early next week. I figure I should hear something by Tuesday.

Can I tell you how long the next 6 days will seem?!?!?!?!?

Thank you all for your thoughts, prayers and good wishes. Do me a favor, please? Keep 'em up. It ain't over til the fat lady sings, and I haven't even warmed up yet.

I REALLY WANT THIS!!!!!!!

Like Lightening

I figured it out!! I finally figured it out!

This damned presentation was kicking my ass! Nothing I pulled together was working for me.

The problem is it's role play. I HATE role play. I have to go in a present a business review. I haven't been in the juice world for over 3 years. I have no recent data. They said it doesn't have to be juice. They are looking for ability and style. (well - I've got plenty of style) ;-)

But still, being an analyst (yes, there is a reason that word starts with anal) I have been struggling starting something from NOTHING and making it work.

Til now. I just saw it. I just walked through it and am changing EVERYTHING. But it's so smooth now it's almost effortless.

I've got 1 hour to finish up the details, then a quick shower and off I go.

But I'm liking it. Very much. Finally.

I do wish that I were able to work without putting all the pressure on myself. Nothing like a last minute panic.

I Love This Man

Since I have to get ready for my big interview this afternoon, and I don't have local TV, I couldn't watch Monday Night Football last night.

Damn.

So...I scribbled on my legal pad, creating, creating. Crossing out, crossing out. I started my powerpoint slides and every once in a while I'd take a break.

Popped on over to Smash's place to see what he was up to. What's this!!!! He's live blogging the game?!?!?!!?

I LOVE this man!

I finally gave up trying to get everything finished around 3:00am. I had no idea how the game turned out so I headed on over to Smash's to get the low down.

I have to tell you - my heart was pounding just reading about the last quarter! HOLY COW.

I'm so disappointed I didn't get to see the game - but am so grateful to Smash for blogging it.

Wow! Steelers' pulled that one out by the skin of their teeth.

And thanks Smash!! You might want to look into a career as a sports writer. That was GREAT!!!!

A chance to get back in the game.....

Guess what I'm doing tonite. Go ahead - guess.

OK, you probably can't so I'll JUST have to tell you. I'm putting together a presentation that has to do with demographics, sales trends, market share and consumer buying practices. I'm so happy I'm giddy!!!

I have a huge opportunity tomorrow and they want me to do this presentation to see if I have what they want! One thing they've already noticed is that I am a very enthusiastic person. I laughed and told them they have no idea.

As you've guessed - it's a job opportunity. A great one. Completely unexpected and very much wanted. To give you an idea of how exciting this is - I'm skipping 5 steps in the process. Two phone conversations and WHAM I'm presenting to a senior VP.

The bad news is - very little time to get it together. And what little time I had has been shortened as of this morning. Plus...my office is not set up. No printer, no CD burner - nothing. I'm sitting at my kitchen table trying to be creative. BUT...I've worked out a plan and feel very confident that it will work.

The good news - I know this stuff like the back of my hand. When I talked with a guy I used to work with who works for this company he laughed when I said I was nervous I couldn't pull the presentation together. He simply said: Do you breathe? Have you changed? Then you are fine. You LIVE for this shit. It's as much a part of who you are as your height and your laughter.

That went a long way in making me feel better.

I can do this. I have no doubt. The only unknown is if I fit in with the chemistry of the company. That we'll have to see.

So.....I'm plotting and planing. PowerPointing and Spreadsheeting. And I'm doing it all with a smile on my face so big it's starting to hurt.

Tomorrow. Tomorrow. It's game day.

Typical

Oh yeah, it's Monday morning in Tammi's world. No doubt about it.

I awoke early. I'm letting Cody stay up at night and sleep out in the living room. (Main reason being to avoid the guilt I feel for only letting him out for an hour before penning him up for 12.) He's doing really well. AND it forces me to get up early.

Anyway - sipping coffee, having a few cigarettes, reading some blogs. Just a nice easy transition back to the real world.

It's time to get dressed so I mosey on into the bedroom and select my outfit for the day. Simple. Black slacks and a purple sweater. I'm having to wear pantyhose with my slacks, since I haven't had time to buy the right kind of socks.

Wander back out to the living room to get dressed. Now remember - I've lived alone for a long time. I've developed strange habits these past 10 years. I tend to get dressed in the livingroom when I can. No reason, just do.

Step one is put on the pantyhose. I have never been one to sit down to put my hose on. Nope, I stand there on one leg and put them on. I've always done that, from the first time I wore them.

HOWEVER - I haven't worn a lot of pantyhose in the past 10 years, and very few since I have Cody. Have I mentioned how curious he is? No? Well he is.

As I'm balancing on one leg, he comes up and does his best imitation of a cat. Rubbing on me and well, basically - pushing me over. So there I was....sprawled across the living room floor, blessedly missing the coffee table, tangled up in my pantyhose with a dog trying to wish me good morning.

Damn - yep - a pretty typical Monday Morning in Tammi's World.

Happy Anniversary

I am a sucker for romance. Plain and simple. It'll get me every single time.

True love and partnership is a rarity. A gift. And I just love it when I see couples that not only found it, but KNOW how fortunate they are.

I see that with Contagiona and Ktreva. I've seen it in his posts, and it is obvious when you see them together. It is a pleasure to be in their company.

Yesterday, October 9, was their 6th Anniversary. Contagion shares the story of the proposal that got rained out, but still turned out exactly right. The wedding, PERFECT!

Go and read. It's the perfect way to start your week.

Happy Anniversary Contagion and Ktreva.

May joy and peace surround you both,
Contentment latch your door,
and happiness be with you now and God bless you evermore.

Scottish Wedding Blessing

Damnit

Sunday Football

Today is gonna be some fun football. My Bucs are playing the Jets and, well, let's just hope Vinnie hasn't ticked off any of his O Line. If so, well, he'll be hurtin'. That's for certain.

The Bears are playing Cleveland and that should be a pretty good game. I'm pullin' for the Bears! Never been a fan of the Dog Pound.

The Pack play NO. For the love of Harvey, TNT & Contagion, I'm hoping GB can build of those last few plays Monday night and get one in the win column.

Miami plays Buffalo. Hmmmm.....I'm thinkin' Miami should be running that game. But still....you never know.

Philly vs the The C'boys. Come on PHILLY!!!! I'm am NOT a Cowboy fan! Not. At. All.

I'm very bummed that Pitt and San Diego play Monday night. I don't get local channels (still) and that is about my favorite match-up for week five.

Wow - I better get to the grocery store. So many games - and I don't want to miss any of it.

Oh - and while I know it goes without saying - I gotta do it!!

Go Bucs!!!!

Real Conversation

T1G: I know you were wanting to see the leaves turning - should be sometime this week or next. They're already starting and it'll hit quick.

Tammi: The leaves are turning?

T1G: Yeah.

Tammi: Where?

T1G:

T1G: On the trees.

Smart ass! But he's right! I noticed it last evening. I'm seeing the gold and red....ohh - it's gonna be so pretty!!!!! But damn - I just wish I paid better attention!

Good Bye My Friend

I was talking this evening about how I must really be a cold hearted bitch deep down inside. When I've been hurt, and worked through the pain - finally I can walk away. When I walk away - I'm done. Finished. There is no going back.

Well - the I do believe the time has come where I will need that strength, the focus again. It's time to say good bye to a dear, old friend.

She's been a part of my life for over 10 years now. We've spent many a cold night (yes, it does get cold in Florida - especially when I have the air turned down to 65) hunkered down with movies and a nice hot toddy. We've spent hours reading together. She's been my comfort when I'm lonely. She's been a constant that I've always known was there.

Tonite, when I came home, I realized her flaws are just too far gone. I can't ignore them anymore. It's time to throw away my flannel nightie.

I'll miss you my friend.

Fairy

Good Morning!!!!

Pressure

Well, I finally got that call. My heart is still racing.

I'm gonna be a little busy for the next couple of days. Of course - I'm taking Sunday off for Football. A girl has to have her priorities, don'cha know. But - I've got some serious shit to pull together.

But I can say this. It's good. It's really really good. Not only will it make me happy. It'll provide a shitload of blogfodder. A double whammy so to speak.

So - you'll forgive me if I'm a bit distance for the next while. I have to pull together the best presentation, both content and delivery, that I've ever done in my lifetime.

No pressure. No pressure at all......................

I would if I could

What a week! At the risk of sounding trite - Thank Goodness it's Friday!!!

It's been an emotional roller coaster - so much going on. And the weather? The weather hasn't been one bit of help.

Earlier this week it was in the upper 80's. Hot, humid and miserable. Yes, I said miserable. Even for me.

Today - the weather pixie tells me it's 43 degrees. 43 I'm just glad it's casual Friday. Jeans, longsleeve tee shirt and sneakers. Yep - thats the ticket.

Then I saw this email from my blogless (for now - I'm working on her) niece. I think it speaks directly to what I would be doing if I could.

Warm and resting. That little kitty has the right idea!!

It's Time! It's Time!!

Today is October 7th!! Today my friend's movie opens nationwide!! I cannot tell you how happy I am for him. To actually know someone who has worked this hard to make their dreams come true - and then get to see it happen! Wow.

The movie is WAITING. It's a comedy. And...if you click on that link you can enter to win a WAITING prize package.

The movie was written and directed by Rob McKittrick. His mom and I are very good friends. He was even my date to her wedding. Hmmmm - does that make me famous?! Anyway - the Orlando Sentinel has this great piece on just what a journey this whole thing was for him. I was thinking this morning I can't believe the opening is finally here - yet it seems like we've been waiting for ever.

I was telling T1G last night that I know not everyone will love this movie. It's not everyone's humor. BUT - I'm a little worried about how I'll react if someone says something negative. I'm a little protective of those I care about - and this is very special to all of us that know Pat and Rob.

So - if you're looking for a comedy to go and see - check out Waiting. It's someone's dream come true.

Ring, Phone, Ring - Updated

I'm sitting here waiting for a phone call. I called as agreed at 6:04 (don't ask) and got voicemail.

OK.

Left a message so he knows I called. He's busy - we talked about that. He's a VP. Things come up - no one knows that better than me.

But.......

It's been 40 minutes.

I'm sitting here in my new, lucky Bucs sweatshirt, favorite jeans, sipping a cup of decaf and just about going nuts.

This could either be the best thing to happen to me or determine that I've got to change my goals and adjust to where I'm at in my life now.

Ring, damnit. Just flippin' ring!!!!

UPDATE: Not tonite. But that's ok, it just gives me more time to prepare.

It's Another Girl

Yep, that's right! I have another girl. A blogdaughter.

Her name is TalulaZephyr and she is my creative one. Oh, not that Machelle, LeeAnn and ArmyWife aren't creative - it's just that Talula really is an artist - photography and poems.

Now - let's look here - first post - Good. Has substance. Huh, guess I forgot to tell her about the first sucky post rule.

Here is one of her poems. Grow. YIKES - I'm thinkin' maybe she was switched at birth.

Anyway - head on over and visit my newest addition - Talula of Love and Koolaid Stains.

I'm so proud.

When it rains.....

I got a call today.

I can't say it out loud, but I can give you a hint.

It has to do with Orange Juice. And money. And Tammi being very very happy.

:-)

Ssssss

Well, Hurricane Stan is now Tropical Depression Stan as he does his thing in Mexico.

Stan.

S.

That means the next named storm is Tammy.

Despite any jokes I can, and will, make about Hurricane/Tropical Storm Tammy I just cannot believe that we have had enough named storms to be at the Ts. It's been a terrible storm year (nothing like over stating the obvious).

Two months. We just gotta make it two more months.

But T? Damn.........

Open Mouth - Change Feet

Sometimes, sometimes I just don't know about myself.

I have problems with English. Oh, hell - who am I kidding, I do the same thing in ANY language I try to speak.

Let me explain. Sunday had a few folks over for food and football. The Bucs had won so I was recouping and decided to check the site to see if anyone had stopped by.

Damn it! Spammed again. Bunches of times. All that damned Peni$-Englargement.

I cursed.

They asked what was wrong.

My reply?

This damned peni$ elargment is hammerin' me!

Yeah - there was no fixin' that one.

Sometimes......I'm tellin' you..........just amazing.

Damn Dog - Again

I'm not the most graceful of women. Sometimes I have trouble walking through an empty room and not hurting myself.

So this morning - for some unknown reason Cody decides it's a barking day. At 5:30am. Not cool. Not cool at all.

And to make it worse he won't pay any attention to me. I'd call and he'd just keep barking. Usually a cookie will get him - not this morning.

So I get pissed. I tear out the back door and....next thing I know I've fallen on my ass. And there is a severe pain in my left ankle.

Did I mention Cody has entered a digging phase?

Damn Damn Damn. Hurts like hell. Oh it's not broken. But ouch.

Why oh why didn't I just get a goldfish?!?!?!?

Not A Huge Deal

Wow. When I posted yesterday I only meant that I had a bit of an announcement, nothing earth shattering. Just want to introduce you to a couple bloggers. One brand new - and one who has become one of my favorite reads.

However - it'll have to wait til tonight. A couple of technical issues with the new blog and I just want to do both together. (I'm like that when I get an idea - pretty stubborn.)

Anyway - I'll get that post up tonight or tomorrow. You'll like them - I promise!

Psst

Hey! You!

You like chocolate? How 'bout carmel? Ya like that too?

Well then head on over to Sissy's place. She's left a bunch of us posting rights and I just posted my infamous Turtle Cake recipe.

Easy and Yummy.

Oh - and ain't nothin' about THIS recipe that's low fat - that I can promise!!!

Yaaawwwwnnnnnn

My weekend was almost toooo good. Seriously.

On so many levels.

I am not ready for it to be Monday. In fact - so much so that, if it hadn't been for Bou callin' I'd have overslept completely.

I am not the biggest fan of Mondays. No, not at all.

But tonite? Ohhhhh tonite, I got a couple of things I want to share with y'all. A surprise as it were.

Have as good a Monday and possible. Thank GOODNESS it's only Monday 1x a week.

Everybody is a Fan

Football.

My Irish kicked ass last night. :-) Ha, and I heard the line was 3 points in favor of Purdue. 49-28. Yeah right.........

Today my Bucs destroy, um I mean battle, the Lions. I'm sooooo gonna enjoy this game.

Even my Weather Pixie is dressed appropriately in a nice red top!

Oh yeah - it's gonna be a good football weekend. I can feel it in the air.

Now - if our defense just does what they do best.

Blessed Sunday

My house smells sooooo good.

I've got some chicken on the stove. The fabulous cajun spices fill the air. I'm making up a big pot of Jambalaya - with chicken, shrimp and spicy sausage. Yummy...

Oh, and I have a couple of apple pies getting ready to hit the oven.

I found some of my pumpkin spice coffee and all that cinimmon, nutmeg, coffee fragrance.....ohhh. And it tastes good too!!!

It's gonna be a little warm today - but right now I have the back door open, watching Cody run around the back yard playing with his football.

It's a wonderful day. I really am blessed.

I'm So Happy

The ND/Purdue game is on ESPN tonite.

I get ESPN!!

The Irish just scored.

I got to see it.

It's like Christmas came early!!

Saturday Question

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

OK - Here goes: What song line ALWAYS makes you smile? You know - you hear it and the image wins over every time.

Mine? The first verse from Tim McGraw's song Watch the Wind Blow By.

Creek goes rippling by
I’ve been barefoot and all day with my baby
Brown leaves have started falling
Leading the way

It's got some of my favorite things in it.

Water - we all know how I feel about Gulfs, oceans, rivers, lakes and creeks.

Being barefoot. 'Nuff said.

And fall.

It exactly hits one of my favorite ways to spend time.

Every time I hear, or even have that song run through my mind it just makes me smile.

So tell me - what line or lines from a song do that to you?????

Fun things on a Saturday Morning

It's a crisp 48 degrees outside - normally I'm a bit chilled. But this morning? I'm outside, barefoot, in my jammies playin' with Cody. Giggling like a 4 year old.

But the best part? Where it gets funny? Going back in the house and watching the dog run, full out, head first into the closed door.

Hehehe

Cruel? Maybe. But funny as hell...........

Wise Words

Don’t cross the HOG line.

Pigs get eaten.

Hogs get slaughtered.

Just something to think about........