Tammi's World

New Years

Wow. What a ride this year has been!

I was looking back at last year this time and realized Mama Vi was still in the hospital down in Florida. In so many ways it was the beginning of the really big changes in my life. I can tell you this much - I never, ever would have guessed I'd be where I am doing what I'm doing a short year later.

But what was funny is the post I put up for the New Year. It was supposed to be a year in review - but it wasn't the greatest of years overall. So I looked at what I wanted to accomplish in 2005. Let's see how I did - shall we?!?!

1) BLOGMEET: Tammi's House.....more info coming - I did it. And it ROCKED!! And I've been to many more since than!!

4) Play with the babies: I have 2 friends that are expecting....I'm a wonderful Aunt Tammi! Plus, there is nothing like babies to put everything into perspective. Well - not as many babies as I'd like - but I think the important thing here was the thought behind it.

Geez, nothing like using your own words against you! Blogs are good for that - aren't they?!?

Anyway - as interesting and challenging as 2005 has been I wouldn't change a thing. Oh, I'm still adjusting but isn't that what I'm supposed do to anyway? Y'all did a great job of reminding me of that in my Puzzle Post. (thankyouverymuch)

So - I guess all I really want to say is I hope, as you look back over this year, you are able to find the good. Cling to it. Cherish it. Learn from the bad, but dont' dwell. Remember those who are gone. Remember them with a smile.

And may 2006 be all you need it to be. Again, I go back to my mantra - the one hanging in my home. Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often.

Happy New Years.

Special Request

My very good friend, Bou, is having surgery this morning.

Please - keep her in your prayers, send good thoughts and pop over and wish her a speedy recovery.

Love ya darlin'. Take care - and take time to heal!!!!!!!!

Fiesta Bowl

Now if you've been a visitor here in Tammi's World very often at all - you know I love my Football. Usually I'm talking Pro, but I also have a very soft spot in my heart for my Notre Dame Fighting Irish. (I even got to go to a game this year - remember?!?!)

Well, they finally made it to a Bowl game - the Fiesta Bowl, to be exact. And - it looks to be a pretty damned good game. ND vs Ohio State Buckeyes. Right now they are giving the Buckeyes the advantage, but they don't know what I know. They aren't a believer like I am.

And they don't dislike Ohio State as much as I do either!! Oh yeah - there's some history here folks. I have a very long memory, and can carry a grudge better than most. So this game is like a dream come true for me.

Now - when I made the trip to Eric's place this past fall, it was my pleasure to meet a certain RedNeck blogger living in....of all places, Ohio. Huh. Well - seems RedNeck wants to have a little wager on the big game. hehehehe.

Oh, I took the bet. I would have no matter what it was. But the stakes make it too sweet to resist. Who ever wins gets the keys to the others blog for 3 days. Complete control. No editing allowed. A complete redesign as it were.

Oh yeah - I took that bet. Never a moments hesitation.

I know my boys won't let me down. While this game may not matter so much in the overall scale of all things college football - it matters to the Irish. I have no doubt they will get 'er done!!

So - let the trash talkin' begin. The game is at 4:00 CT Sunday. I'll have a big ole ham cooked, some cheesy potatoes, and a "few" alcoholic beverages at the ready. Meanwhile I need to come up with some redesign ideas for ole RedNeck's place!!!

I'm Not Safe Left Alone

Honest to goodness - I should come with some kind of a warning.

Tonite I decided it was time to hang the living room curtains. I was pretty excited about that as I really like them and I didn't get to put them up when I was in Orlando. So I dug them out the box and freshened 'em up and drug the curtain rods into the living room.

Now try and picture this. 6'2", barefooted standing on the couch with a piece-oh-shit screw driver. I have a bit of carpal tunnel so I wasn't doin' so hot with the screwin' part. (Hey - this is a family blog - don't go there!) Add to that the whole barefeet and trying to balance on the couch, and well.....

Oh, and I did I mention I had Phantom of the Opera playing in the background? And, since I know the entire score, I was singing along at the top of my lungs.

Now there's a kodak moment if there ever was one.

The first time I fell and hit the coffee table - and yes, I did mean to say the FIRST time - I thought I broke it in half. I'm sure the bruise will be a lovely shade of lavender by the middle of next week.

But did that stop me? Hell no!!! Didn't even slow me down.

So - I get those stupid, idiotic rods hung and went to get the curtains out of the dryer. They're fresh - just wrinked as hell. But I put those bad boys up anyway. I got a steamer and I'm not afraid to use it. The secret is figuring out where it is!!

I'm sure it'll look lovely once the wrinkles are out, and the pull backs up in place. But damn - does everything have to be so flippin' difficult??? Does everything have to involve bruising?????

Of Mice and Me

He's winning.

Hands down - I have to admit that damned mouse is smarter than I am.

Traps? Goes no where near them.

Poison? Nope.

And - to make it worse, I think the little bastard was someone's pet at some time. Way to tame, way to "used to" people. Last evening he came out to introduce himself to my dinner guest. Yeah, that was nice........

I've named him Morty. I've been explaining to Morty that it's really nothing personal. I just wasn't counting on having a roommate that shit all over my house. Yeah, not really what I was looking for. Morty isn't getting it. Oh - but he will. Oh yes he will.

T1G recommended going after him the old fashioned way. Regular ole spring trap with an oatmeal paste. I can do that. I am going to do that tonite.

Here's to hopin' I fall asleep to the sweet sound of spring traps snappin'.

The Puzzle

Those of you that cook - have you ever made a dish and when tasting it realize there is just somethin' missin'? You can't put your finger on it, but you know something just isn't exactly as it supposed to be?

Yeah - well that's me right now. I'm in a mood. Have been for over a week. Not because of the holidays. Those were better than expected.

It's not the living conditions. I'm in the new house and getting more and more settled each day.

It's not the job. It sucks, but I know it's not the job.

I don't know what it is. I just can't see it. I look and look - think and think. Nothin'. I got nothin'.

My night out last night was me finally just tired of dealing with it. I don't often set out to drink too much. I don't because I know how easy it is for me to go on a bender. If I'm in a mood - I don't drink. Period. Most of the time.

Last night was all about how much I could consume in a short amount of time. End of story. I knew I had to go out because I will NOT sit at home and drink like that. They'd find me a month later surrounded by empty bottles rocking back and forth in a corner. Not a pretty picture, let me tell you.

But you see it's this shyness of mine. Most of the time I work through it. Most of the time I can ignore it. But sometimes the self doubt, the inner child as it were just fights to the surface. And kicks my ass. I don't know what I'm fussin' about. Honestly. I'm just mad at me. If I knew why I'd forgive myself and tell me to get over it. That's the problem. I don't know why.

Does that ever happen to you? If so, how do you deal with it? How to you work through a problem that you know exists but can't define? How do you forgive youself for something that you don't understand?

Anyone? Anyone? Bueller?

Planning is Important

It's never a good sign when you get to work and no one was expecting you. Seems there was a mistake and I actually had yesterday "off". But - being the uber honest person I am I stayed and worked.

And by 9:00am knew I was going to be drinking that evening.

By 10:00am I knew it was gonna be Capt'n and Diets.

By noon I knew that there would be shots involved.

And that is exactly what happened. I cannot tell you the last time I just let myself go. I drank what I wanted - ate some pizza - and laughed. A lot.

I needed that.

Now I think I'll be able to "hang" at Fritz Fest.

That's Gonna Leave a Mark - again

Grace is not something that I have ever been tagged with - at least not seriously. I am not the most graceful swan on the pond. Not by a long shot.

But every once in a while I forget that. I forget and start to think I can glide. Glide across a room, or down a flight of stairs. You know - like the old time movie stars. Standing at the top of the stairs. Pausing for effect. And when everyone's eyes are on them, they shyly glance down and glide down the stairs. No effort - just grace.

Yeah - well, I don't do that so well. And I got that reminder this morning. Let me explain.

I woke up and started the coffee. I realized I still hadn't found the iron so I decided to put my skirt and sweater in the dryer to freshen them up. As I hit "publish" on my last post I hear the buzzer go off letting me know to come downstairs and retrieve my outfit. As I get to the top of the basement stairs I kinda sorta didn't see the first step. And having missed that it makes it rather difficult to hit the other ones with something other than MY ASS!!!

Yes, like a kid out on Snow Mountain, I slide down the basement stairs on my ass. Jarring and rather humiliating. As I hit the cement at the bottom all I could think of was - Thank Goodness no one saw that. Oh, I need to blog that!!

Yeah, grace is not my strength. But obviously I'm really good at laughing at myself.

A Party?!?!?!?!

Fritz Fest '06 is ON!!

T1G has pulled together the social event to kick off 2006. He's opened his doors (well, the gates to his fine town) and invited the blogsphere in.

On Jan. 8th there will be a gathering of bloggers at Fritz's Wooden Nickle in Stillman Valley. There will be food, drink and conversation. And trust me - I've eaten the food at Fritz's and it's gooooooodddddddd. The drinks? They are generous. Conversation? Let's just say I've never been to a quiet blogmeet. Period.

So - this is what I'm gonna need for you to do.......

Click on over to the Fritz Fest Blog. Check out the menu and then STATE YOUR PREFERENCE. Really - leave him a comment letting him know what you prefer. None of this - oh, what everyone wants is fine. It's not. Especially when EVERYONE is saying the same thing. State your choice. You can do it. :-)

Then let him know where you are coming from. That way he can make sure you get the right directions.

Last but not least - get there. Come on folks - it's a great chance to meet fellow bloggers and hang out in the now World Famous Fritz's Wooden Nickel. I cannot think of a better way to kick off the new year. I'm gonna be there! But I don't think there was ever any real doubt about that, now was there? ;-)

Twas The Day After Christmas....

My most important Christmas Wish came true. There was no fighting in Tammi's World this Christmas. No crying, no hurt feelings, everyone got along and it was wonderful. Just wonderful.

Oh, we had some close calls. But, as my role has always been the peace maker I stepped in and smoothed everything over. It's amazing how a well phrased "Shut Up" works every now and again!!

I am very proud of Mama. She quit smoking after almost 60 years the first week of November. (I am very grateful she's past the cranky stage by now!!) She did say if she had known how hard it would be to quit she never would have. Huh. Some inspiration that is!!!!

Anyway - it was a good Christmas weekend. Today I'm back in the Little Blue Cracker House, putterin' and fussin'. It's a good day to put things to right. In more ways than one.........

My Christmas Card

In a perfect world you all would have received a Christmas Card from me. Each would have had a little note telling you how much you mean to me and wishing you the very best Holiday Season and a year of love and happiness to come.

However - Tammi's World is not a perfect world. So this is the best I can do.

Merry Christmas to each and every one of you. May your holidays be filled with love and laughter. May 2006 bring you joy a plenty.

Remember

I heard this song the other day. I had to pull the car over - it's just that good.

I cannot find a version to download for you - but I think the lyrics tell the story pretty well all on their own.

Sailing Home For Christmas

Sailing home for Christmas in their dreams.

My heartfelt thanks go to all those serving our Country - always. But most especially during this time of year. To those that serve and the families that love and support them - God Bless You and Keep You. You are all in my prayers.

Just Stuff

Today I do not have to go into the office. I have a four day weekend. I cannot begin to tell you how happy that makes me.

Then, to make things even better I get to have my Christmas early. Yep. I'm spoiling myself. See - I bought myself some Christmas presents. Couple pair of flannel jammies, that I have been enjoying the hell out of. I count the new fridge as one - even though that was kind of a "must have". Then, I did it. I made one of the toughest choices ever for me.

I went and purchased a washer and dryer. They are delivering it today. I really needed them and I got a heck of a deal. But let me tell you - as I paid for it all I could think of was how a ticket to Florida would have been less. I could have spent a week in Florida visiting friends and family, seeing the Gulf, walking in the sand - for what I paid for these appliances. Damn - sometimes being a grown up sucks.

But - they are being delivered today. No longer will I have the excuse of going to a laundry mat for not having things caught up. That is just about everything I need for the house.

Except for curtains. Here's a funny thing. As I was unpacking my box-O-window treatments I realized other than my formal living room set, I only have one pair of each curtain I own. Every room but the kitchen has two windows. I mentioned that to my cousin and she reminded me that in Florida, because of the heat/sun, most houses only have one window per room. The only reason I have 2 of the formal ones is because I had a living room/dining room combo. Huh. I never realized that - but it's true of every place I've lived. The problem is I buy very unique curtains - I'll never find another that matches what I have so I need to buy new sets. Oh well, in time. Everything in time. Thank goodness for blinds!!! I can only imagine what my new neighbors would think!!!!

Anyway - I leave for Mama Vi's tonite, to return Sunday afternoon. It should be a quiet holiday weekend, and I'm looking forward to getting back here and doing some more puttering. Or just sitting. Whatever I want. I just know I don't have to go to the office. No one is going to yell at me. It's a four day weekend and I can do whatever I want. :-)

Another WTF Moment

Most of the boxes I am in the process of unpacking are from the move north last April. At that time I had the movers come in and pack me. You may not recall but I made more than a couple of drives back and forth in 6 weeks and continued working until 3 days before the move. I was a little busy.

Last night I unpacked my office. At least part of it. You wouldn't believe what I found - wrapped in paper as if they were the most precious items on earth. Mail. Yes, mail. And an empty tape case. Empty. A pad of paper with 2 sheets on it. 2 sheets. Wrapped in a huge ass piece of packing paper.

And that's just the tip of the iceberg.
Un. Believe. Able.

Oh well. I guess that will teach me to get organized and stay that way. But Damn - to think I hauled this crap across country. AND paid good money to do it! Arrrggghhhhhhhh

Just Pay Attention

People irratate the shit out of me sometimes. Especially during the holiday season in parking lots.

Listen - it's easy. It's logical. If you are pulling off of the main road - YOU HAVE THE RIGHT OF WAY!! If you do not have a stop sign - YOU HAVE THE RIGHT OF WAY. Do NOT stop just because and then look at me like I'm the idiot. Do NOT flip me off because I am stopped at MY stop sign and you have nothing - no light, no yield, and certainly no stop.

When I was road warrioring it and spent so much time in malls of every shape and size this was one of my pet peeves. I learned how to go around the back way just to avoid that kind of mess. Now - I'm in a new territory and, to be honest, don't do much shopping at all. So when I do - it's like nails on a chalk board for me. One of the few things that incites road rage. Or would that be parking lot rage? Oh, whatever, you know what I mean.

I appreciate that people are being cautious. That's all well and good. But if folks would just pay attention and follow the flow it would all be good.

/rant

The Great Mouse War - Part II

As I stated this morning - I got a few roommates. And they are NOT welcome.

So - I got Decon for the garage. I got Decon for the basement. I got traps for upstairs. I'm well armed and without an ounce of pity. I managed to get 7 at the old house with traps alone. These suckers are DEAD. Just DEAD.

It was not a good day. Not in any way shape or form. I woke up to the damned mouse eating my cookie and it went downhill from there. It was so bad I went off on my boss - in front of everyone. Oh, he deserved it. But, it's not the way I do things. Ever. I hate when I do that. But - lesson to boss......don't push me, asshole.

OK - I'm goin' in. I got everything ready to go and then I've got to get some serious unpacking done. I don't want those mouses makin' a little love nest in any of my stuff. And I need to get at it while the temperature is still double digits.

It Really Is The Giving Season

I love Christmas time. For a lot of different reasons. Having grown up in a Christian home, the religious aspects are important to me. I celebrate the birth of Christ thankfully.

I love the traditions of Christmas. The goodies, the smell of baking, the lights, the candles. All of it. It's about home and family - two of the most important things in life, as far as I'm concerned.

And I love giving. Love it. Nothing makes me happier than to give someone something that I know they will like and will show them that they matter to me.

That being said, Christmas wasn't lookin' to good for me this year. The timing of the move couldn't have been worse for decorating and baking. Not to mention the money strain. Didn't look like there'd be much gift giving from Tammi's World. I couldn't make anything - first no time. But also - I am not crafty at all. Not. At. All.

Well, for some reason I got lucky. Bonus' came early. I now have been able to purchase a few gifts that I really wanted to buy. I get to put them in pretty bags - I do NOT wrap. I suck at it. And I get to say - I care, in my own special way.

Being able to give even one gift at Christmas makes the holiday for me. I knew it would be different this year. I knew I had to par back. I wasn't looking forward to that at all. BUT - I didn't realize it would be as bad as it was. It was really bringing me down. No tree. No Nativity Scene. No cookies. No breads. And most of all even if the tree had been up - there would have been nothing under it - that would have broken my heart.

But it's fine now. Oh, still not what I'd like. But you know, I had to realize it will never been like it was again. And that's not necessarily a bad thing. I went a bit overboard. But when you have all this love trapped inside - and the opportunity to share is there - not being able to take advantage of it is tough. It steals a bit of the soul, I think.

They Followed Me

This morning I was sleepin' away in my warm bed. Snuggled down in the covers, wearin' a new pair of flannel jammies.

All of a sudden there is a terrible racket in my kitchen. I roll over and put my head under the covers. Damn. I can still hear it. So I roll back over and say "Hey - cut a girl a break - it's only 5:00!!"

Then it dawns on me. I live alone. There should be no racket in my kitchen!!

WTF?!?!?!?!

So I jump up - gain my balance and creep into the kitchen. As I hit the light I see one of the cookies the landlady brought me sitting on the stove. I didn't put that there. Then I see a little brown/tan mouse stick his head out from behind the control panel. He sees me. I see him. Then he's gone.

But....there he is again. He is looking at me. Then looking at the cookie. Then looking at me. He really wants that cookie. I think he's gonna risk it.

That bastard was on top of my microwave, pulled a cookie out of the covered (with plastic wrap) bowl and drug that damned cookie across my stove. That was the noise I heard. So I grabbed the bowl of cookies and threw them away. (Sorry Helen, but they've been touched by a mouse - I won't be eating any.) Then, with that flippin' mouse still peeking out from the control panel of my stove I grabbed the cookie. Stealth like - the Pink Ninja would have been proud. As I turn back around the mouse is still there. Looking at me. I swear I saw a glint in it's beady little eyes. I think I pissed it off.

Damn - those mouses followed me. And now they got attitude.

Christmas Meme

Kids. Whatta ya do with 'em? My blogdaughter Lee Ann has a little bit too much time on her hands, it seems. She's made up her own Meme and tagged her beloved blogmama. Thanks darlin. I'll get even (as list for revenge grows ever longer).

Seems we're supposed to list our five favorite Christmas movies. You know - those flicks that just SCREAM Christmas for ya. So, let's get started.....

1) It's a Wonderful Life. Now I have to admit I have only actually sat down and watched this all the way through one time. Oh, I know all the famous quotes, just never had time to sit down and watch it. When I did - I loved it!! Before that as soon as I saw it was on I knew - the holidays were right around the corner.

2) Miracle on 34th Street. I adore the original, and don't mind the remake. But being as I have a huge crush on Santa, this is one of my all time favorites.

3) White Christmas. Love. Love. Love. 'Nuff said.

4) The Santa Claus both I and II. These always put a smile on my face. What a great concept and some very cute movies.

5) A Christmas Carol. The original. Not to be too interspective, but I really am big on always trying to be a better person, and that no one NO ONE is too far gone. This movie just feeds right into that!

So - there you have it. Five of my favorite Christmas movies. Now - I'm supposed to tag 5 other people. Hmmm - Teresa doesn't have a lot of time, but just in case. ;-) Talula - cause I know you'll have some great choices!! Laughing Wolf - because he has GREAT taste in movies!!! (plus he's on vacation and I don't want him to get bored!) Princess Cat - whom I just know will have a surprise or two in there! And last, but certainly not least - AlliCadem over at Can I Have Some Whine - just because she cracks me up!!!

I Am NOT Completely Helpless

HA! I fixed it. All By Myself.

What? Oh, I forgot to tell you. I was too busy freezin' my ass off.....

I got home this evening, after a breezy day where the temp was about 15 degrees, to a house that was all of 50 degrees. I didn't check the temperature at first, thought it was just me not being able to warm up. So I started a very yummy dinner and just kept getting colder.

Sat down in the living room to eat, still freezin' my ass off. I went around checking to make sure I hadn't blocked any of the heat vents. No - all clear. Then I notice it's COLD AIR coming out. WTF?!?!?!?!?!?!

So I went downstairs. To my basement. (heheheh haven't been able to say that in YEARS!) Now I have to tell you I am NOT mechanically inclined. Not by any stretch of the imagination. To make matters worse, this is a gas furnace - I know NOTHING about these. I know there is supposed to be a pilot light - but don't know where, what, nothin'. So - I find these slidy up and down doors and take them off. There is this "light switch" so I flipped it. Then I flipped it again. Going with the Tammi Theory that more is better I flipped it again. Then I figured out how to get the doors back on (that was a feat) and Voila!!! I got heat.

I fixed it. All. By Myself. I have no idea what I did, but it's gettin' warm in here now!

It ended up bein' a pretty good day afterall!!!!

Healthy Ain't Workin' Today

I only drank herbal tea last night. Yet - I am so foggy it's like one of the worst hangovers EVER. I've been sitting here for a half hour, guzzling coffee and trying to read blogs. I'm having a lot of trouble with that.

I swear - I'm better off drinkin' booze. At least I don't wake up feelin' like THIS! Damn.

My Family Is Mean

Really. They are.

First - last spring my beloved blogdaughter decides to take advantage of my scatterbrains and auctions off one of my favorite tank tops. Damn - the apple didn't fall far from the tree there!!

Now - after my heartfelt Thank You for helping me move - Contagion is holding my damned favorite piece of stained glass art for RANSOM!!! But I have to admit I laughed until I cried when I saw that post. DAYUM!!!

But seriously - I can't help it I leave pieces of myself where ever I go. Honest - I bet there are at least 12 pairs of my shoes scattered throughout Florida. And I can't even begin to tell you what I've left in hotel rooms across the country - oh wait. Maybe that didn't come out right.....

Anyway - if I can just figure out a way to twist Contagion's demands and put 'em back on him........

I wish I were more devious. ;-)

A Day Off....of sorts

Every muscle in my body hurts. And I don't mean in a good way. I feel older than dirt right now - but that's ok. It was worth it.

Yesterday I had such plans. I was going to get soooo much done. Yeah, right.

I did sleep in my bed. First time since May. The mattress sucks, and it's about as uncomfortable as you could imagine, but I slept like a baby. In my bed. :-) In fact I slept so well, I missed my normal wake-up. I slept til 8:30. Well shit - that put's me a bit behind schedule.

Then the phone rang. Ahhhh the sweet sweet sound of a ringing phone. I talked. A lot. It was wonderful. BUT....I had a schedule, things to get done. Now I was behind some more. Oh well, life is meant to be lived not scheduled.

Finally I knew I could put it off no longer. I headed over to the old place to do the final clean up and pack up what loose stuff we had run out of boxes for.

First three rooms were a piece of cake. Run the sweeper and all done! WooHoo. (The ONLY advantage of that small of a place.) Then I hit the kitchen, and started to pack up the stuff.

Now, I need to mention I'm not a good judge of "space". Not. At. All. I had 3 boxes. I started packing. By the time I was finished I couldn't lift the damned things. Holy Shit!! Part of it is the fact that I'm just plumb wore out. Also - I had moved the TVs over on Thursday so the DirecTV could be hooked up, and kinda sorta wrenched my back (damned old age anyway). I managed to get the 2 bigger boxes in the car - finally. They are still there. I can't even get a grip on them to lift them out. But I'm alright with that. They'll be fine and I'll get 'em out sometime this week.

But - all that took so much more time than I scheduled. Finally I got home around 4:30. I'm glad no body took me up on the football and pizza. The only game I got to watch was the Bears beat the Falcons.

So I get home and the phone rings. I spent the evening chatting with friends and cousin. By 10:00 I was so damned tired I don't even remember going to bed.

But it was a great day. I cooked a little and talked a lot. I puttered around and got a bit more settled. It was like a day off.....sorta.

Thank You

How do you even begin to say Thank You? How will I ever be able to express how much yesterday meant to me?

This post is the best I can do. TNT, Harvey, Contagion and T1G are my heroes. Pure and simple.

I left the house around 6:00am to bring a load to the new house and drive to Rockford to pick up the truck. When I got back at 9:30 they had already been there, loaded Contagion's truck and TNT's car and brought a load over. These people worked their asses off to help me yesterday.

And it was cold. Really cold.

And I got stuff. Big stuff. And lots of it.

We worked all day. But it's done. I'm in such a better place. Because of my friends.

The best part? Last night, when the truck was empty and things were somewhat settled, I walked into the office. I could hear the laughter and stories throughout my home. It was a christening of sorts. The best kind.

So I guess I just wanted to say Thank You. It's so hard for me to ask for help - and you made it easy. You were all there for me, and for that I will never be able to fully express my gratitude. Ever.

Y'all were my angels. Thank You.

I'm BACK!!!

Hi. How are you? Doin' alright?

Me? Well, it's been kinda busy. I moved - in case you didn't know. BUT I finally got all the bugs worked out of the interent connection AND.....wait for it........I got's me a phone!! YES! I am one happy woman.

I slept in a house that was warm. In my bed. (I've been sleeping on the couch since I moved back up here.) I made beef stew and biscuits yesterday - in a real kitchen. One I can move around in, and have appliances that work. I've got a ton of work still to do - but I'm here.

One last trip to the old house - gotta get a last load and run the sweeper. That's it. Then home again to putter, make pizza and watch football.

In my warm home. And yes - it's already a home.

Well Something Works

Ok - DirecTV was here early. Yeah for DirecTV.

Fridge delivered at 3:30. Yeah for Fridge.

Cable guy arrived at 4:30. Yeah for Cable Guy.

However - either I am an idiot or I don't have enough "plugs" cause I can't hook up the damned VOIP phone. I'm close. I'm sooooo close.

But I got stuff to do. I just know I wasn't leaving here until the damned internet was working - at least. And yes - there were some problems. Thank GOODNESS the local gas station let me use their phone to call Insight.

OK - gotta grab a bite to eat and get some more stuff done.

Oh - and T1G?? Yeah, don't forget Dude, I gots me a looooonnnnnnggggg memory. Just sayin.

I Give Up!!

I saw this several places and finally just gave in and took the damned thing. I think I was afraid to know what the answer is.

You're a political intellectual.


What Sort of Intellectual Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla

I can live with this.

Gotta Have My Fix

I love food. Really I do. I think it's because I come from a family of cooks. It seems with most of my most vivid memories there is food involved. It's hard to explain...but there you go.

I also have cravings. Bad. And they don't just go away. They get worse and worse and worse as time goes by. I learned a long time ago that if I crave something I'm better off just indulging and putting myself out of my misery.

This post over at Eric's place reminded me of a story about that very thing. Oops - I mean THIS POST (sorry, got a little confused for a moment).

I spent 6 months in Costa Rica when I was in college. Working as a missionary. (done laughing yet?) It was required for graduation, and it was one of my greatest adventures.

But anyway - Costa Rica in the early 80's was not a bad gig. I lived just outside of San Jose and had lots of "American Luxuries" in case I started getting too home sick.

Now - for the sake of this story I need to remind you I have two STRONG food loves. Pizza and donuts. I could eat either one of those, or both, on a daily basis. No donuts in Costa Rica. At least none that I found. And pizza? Yes, they had a Pizza Hut. BUT - their version of pizza was a tortilla with some tomato sauce and melted cheese. While not untastey - not my pizza.

6 months folks. 6 long months. I dreamt about pizza and donuts. I begged people to send me pizza and donuts. I would have done just about anything for pizza and donuts. I became a woman obsessed.

When I finally got home the first place I headed was Dunkin Donuts. I ordered 1 dozen glazed donuts and ate them in the car on the way home. I was covered in sugary glaze with a smile so big it hurt my face - shoveling those bad boys down so fast I couldn't even talk. We got home, I cleaned up and headed for the pizza parlour. There I managed to consume a large pepperoni pizza all. by. myself. And about a gallon of Mountain Dew to wash it down.

I had pizza and donuts every day for the next few weeks. Now - just once a week (pretty much). But as soon as I start craving one - I get it. I have too. Otherwise I'd weigh 400 lbs.

Do It

I've made no secret of how much I admire Smash over at The Indepundit. His was the first blog I ever read - right after he started Lt. Smash. He is someone I cannot say enough good things about. Period.

He's throwing out a call to action. MoveOn.org has been collecting signatures for petitions - as he calls them Cut and Run petitions. In this post he has contact numbers for our Representatives. We need to call. We need to make sure our representatives KNOW beyond a shadow of a doubt that, yes we want our Military Men and Women home - it must be at the right time. To leave now, is to lose the ground that has been taken. To leave now is to pull the freedom from Iraqi's hands. To leave now is making light of those that have sacrificed all. (note: link is one of the most difficult accounts I've ever read regarding the notification of the loss of one of our troops. Not An Easy Read. It WILL break your heart. h/t Lex at Neptunus Lex)

So call your Representative. Let them know how you feel. I did. From work. I didn't care if I got in trouble. It was worth it. It's the very least that I can do.

What about you? Will you take the time? Will you be heard?

A Glimpse Behind the Curtain

Well - I got one house shoveled out. It really wasn't bad at all. Maggie May (my car) just doesn't do so well through that snow that piles up at the end of the drive when they plow the road. Yeah - she's a bit prissy about that. So got that done so it won't be so bad after tomorrow's snow.

Anyway - it was not the best of days. Oh, not the worst by far, but not one for the record books. Except for this email I'm about to share. It's from a customer - and I'm removing all the company and personal information. The whole exchange just made me giggle - and helped me remember that not everyone thinks I'm an incompetent ass (even when I act like one).

**some notes: HTTP = hook twin tie plates. They are a part for railroad tracks and I sell a boatload of them. O=my customer, O is retired Navy and we hit it on the first time I talked to him on the phone. GREAT sense of humor and patient as a saint - just don't piss him off...**

Original Request from O:
Hi Tammi,
Please quote the attached HTTP's which I believer you are still in
the business of making. If not, please let me know. The sizes and qtys
are in the attachment.

My response:
Do you have the quantities you need?

My next response:
Damn it!! Never mind. I'm not just an idiot - I'm blind too!!!!!

My NEXT response:
OK - here's a legitimate question. Do you want me to quote 1", 3/4" or 7/8" thick????

Let me know.

O's response:
I love you....never a dull moment with you...
Sorry about that,...they are all 3/4 x 4 x length.

My response:

:)

I'll have that for you tomorrow. J is at another plant today and all the pricing goes through him.

O's response:
excuses, excuses... :-)

My response:
Oh Dude, I got a boatload of 'em. You can take that to the bank!
HELLO! My name is Tammi and I'm in sales. ;-)

O's response:
LOL, is having a headache included as one of them.... :-)

My response:
I was married for 11 years. What do you think?

O's response:
Yeah.....

So, in response to some questions I've recieved - yes I really am just like my blog in real life. Scary - isn't it!?!?!?!?

Holiday Funny

REMEMBER THIS AT CHRISTMAS TIME
According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, while both male and female reindeer grow antlers in the summer each year, male reindeer drop their antlers at the beginning of winter, usually late November to mid-December. Female reindeer retain their antlers till after they give birth in the spring.

We should've known... ONLY women would be able to drag a fat-ass man in a red velvet suit all around the world in one night and not get lost.

Another funny from my blogless (still, so that makes her stubborn too) niece.

Oh, and yes, I am fully aware that I open myself up to the whole "directionally challenged" comments. ;-) I still thought it was funny!!!

Lovely, Just Lovely

This is what I'm gonna need for you to do......

Good thoughts, prayers - whatever. I'm trying to move. I'm doing as much as possible this week so that it goes nice and smooth (yeah, right) on Saturday. Well, at least as smooth as possible.

I just heard we're expecting a dilly of a snow storm on Wednesday. Not.What.I. Need.

Now - after living in Florida for 10+ years I learned not to really listen to the weather people. HOWEVER - this is Tammi's Moving Week so, yes, I believe them.

YIKES!!

So we're gonna need for that snow to miss us this week. (Sorry T1G - you can have your snow later - I just need this week)

Also - I have a confession. And before I get all your knee-jerk reactions - remember. I'm a girl.

OK - here goes.

I have never shoveled snow. Ever. In my whole life.

Growing up we had a plow. Married? 3 boys. Then - Florida.

I just about got stuck getting out of my drive this morning. At the new house tonite I had to park on the street and haul the boxes up the drive - I didn't think I could get in or out of the drive.

So tomorrow I buy a snow shovel. Then - go to the new house after work and shovel the drive. Unload the car and come home. Shovel that drive and walk. (Can't expect my movers to trudge through all that snow - it's not polite.)

So yet another reason I don't need any more snow this week. Please? Please!! I won't complain one more time this winter if it just doesn't snow until after Sunday.

(Yeah, right - and I've got some swamp land for sale in Arizona!)

Believe It Or Not AGAIN

I DID IT!! I survived!! Yes - this only goes to prove that I can survive without talking! Ha.

This weekend was about the longest in history. Yesterday I got some stuff done. Sorting, packing stuff done. All in complete silence. COMPLETE silence.

I had a few email conversations over the weekend - thank goodness. I read some blogs. I babysat. But other than that - no conversations. No talking. None. I have not uttered one word - not one word - since Saturday evening. Damn - I hope I didn't damage something! ;-)

But I get the new phone at the new house on Friday. WooHoo!! I won't be using it much that night or Saturday - gonna be kinda busy. BUT, just to know it's there. I can almost hear it ring already.

There are only a couple of things I'm worried about for this upcoming week. The guy hasn't called me back about the big truck. I've GOT to remember/make time at work to call him until I get the confirmation. From Him. I'm not a big believer in internet workings when I'm dealing with a small town and a small business owner. I just need to hear him say those four little words. "The Truck Is Reserved" Yeah - that'll make me happy.

That and the DirecTV guy hasn't called to confirm that he'll be at the house Friday afternoon. I'm gonna need that to happen. No time or room for him to be fiddlin' with that stuff on Saturday - and Sunday I want the games blaring while I putter and make homemade pizza in my new oven, in my blue cracker house. :-)

BUT, back to the subject at hand. I, Tammi, can actually go without talking for periods greater than 10 mins. How 'bout that?!?!? I can promise you there are people out there that would never believe it.

Frank & Sarah J.

Yesterday was the big day. Frank & Sarah's wedding.

Pictures are posted. Here at IMAO!!!

Looks like it was a beautiful ceremony.

Congratulations you two. God's Blessings for a long and happy life together.

Mornin'

I have so much to do.

I have got to get to the laundry mat. Even though the new house has a washer/dryer hook-up I'm not sure when I'll get the chance to "hook-up". Plus - I'm not moving dirty clothes. Not gonna happen.

I've got most of the kitchen packed - I just need to get over to the house with those boxes and get them unpacked and put away. Then get home and do it again.

I haven't done anything in the living room yet - because it's full of boxes from the kitchen. I need to get that taken care of.

I've been up since 5:00am. All I've managed to do is make and drink a pot of coffee. It's 7:30am now. Hmmmmm

I want to tell myself I've been wasting time - procrastinating as it were. But it wouldn't be true. I've been checking up on my friends. Reading some blogs and taking the time to comment.

I'm making breakfast right now. Fryin' up a couple of eggs, toasting some bread. I'm smiling because soon I'll have a stove that doesn't lean - I will be able to cook in a normal way. I'm hoping the baking rays are more consistant too! I want to bake some bread for the holidays.

Oh and it's not so cold this morning. About 30 degrees and just a light curtain of snow falling. We got a bit yesterday so I'll need to go and clean off the car. But that's alright. That too is not going to be much of a problem soon. Can you say Garage?!?!? ;-)

So it's Sunday morning in Tammi's World. I got stuff to do. Eventually.

Adventures In Babysitting

Yes I babysat. I do that every once in a blue moon. It's good for me. It makes me smile.

So - what on earth do you do to entertain an energetic 4 year old when your house is half packed and you can barely walk?

Well - you watch old cartoons-Tom & Jerry, Scooby Doo - you know those good old cartoons.

Then you have peanut butter sandwiches with the crust cut off.

You try to make hot chocolate, only to discover the chocolate is packed. Oops.

You dance along with Jinglebell Rock Santa. You see - he hates to dance alone so it's very important that we dance with him. Hey - she believed me!!!

You dig out pads of paper and draw pictures. Even when her's are better than yours! (I'm a terrible artist - terrible.)

And the best part? "I love you Miss Tammi" How could anything top that????

Passing On

Without a phone the only communication I'm getting is via email.

I just got one from Mama. Not one I really wanted to recieve.

We have a friend...a gentleman of the first ranks. His name is Ron. He and his wife were Mama's bosses way back when Daddy was still alive. They have 3 children - 2 girls and a boy. Their boy, Tony, was my first crush. We spent a lot of time together, we two families. And when Daddy passed Ron stepped up to be there as a fatherly influence.

Ron passed on this morning. I wish I could go to the funeral - but I'm not allowed the time off work. But I'll be saying a prayer for the family. And thanking the good Lord above for allowing me to have such a wonderful example of what a gentleman is in my life.

We'll Miss You Ron. Say hi to Daddy for me.

Believe it or not

Silence reigns supreme in Tammi's World today. Being as this is my last "phone free" weekend I'm telling myself it'll be fine. Really.

But Damn......

Anyway - a couple of folks have answered the little meme about 5 weird habits.

Machelle was very prompt - and it turns out we have a couple of things in common.

BloodSpite...well let's just say the man can twist a meme with the best of 'em. But he does make me laugh. Oh yes he does.

Ok - I've got a bunch of stuff packed. Now for more sorting and then tonite - I babysit. But at least I'm getting stuff done. :-)

Remeber When....

What a great idea! I found this over at Sgt. Hooks -

Remember the time we…

When you’re finished, post this paragraph on your blog and be surprised (or mortified) about what people don’t actually remember about you.

This is better than a Saturday Question. AND I don't have to tag anyone!!!

5 Habits

Son of a GUN! I avoided this at Matt's place, and you'd think one of my best friends would realize I'M KINDA BUSY MOVING!! But nooooo - Bou tags me for this meme. **UPDATE: TERESA GOT ME TOO!!!!! YIKES Two - two of my closest friends..... ** List 5 weird habits. 5. Damn - narrowing the list is gonna be tough.

OK - here goes:

1) I hum - All. The. Time. I know it's aggravating. Hell-it drives me crazy sometimes, but there you have it. I'm a Hummer.

2) When I'm trying to work through a problem I pace - and rub my fingers together like - you know kinda like the gesture for "money". It's not unusual to see me pacing in the parking lot, walking in circles rubbing my fingers together. Don't know if it really helps or not but it makes me feel better - and Hey, this is all about ME after all!!

3) I fiddle with my hair. A lot. It's a nervous habit and something I've done for as long as I can remember. BUT - it's only when I'm comfortable around people. Let me see if I can explain - if I'm on a call or in an uncomfortable (sit up straight and focus) situation I don't do it. But if I'm just kicked back and bein' me - then yeah - I fiddle with my hair.

4) I buy myself fresh flowers. Alot. Anytime I can afford them. I love them around my home. Adds color and softness. And they make me smile.

5) I forget to tell you who I am when I call. I forget not everyone has caller ID or even remembers what my voice sounds like. I hardly ever say "Hi, it's Tammi". Oh no - it's usually - "Hi, it's me. Is this a bad time?" Rude, it's rude I tell you-but what's a girl to do? It's just one of my wierd habits.

OK - now I'm supposed to tag 5 people. Hmmmm - well, I've seen _Jon pop up every where gloating because he avoided being tagged - so there's one. I don't believe I've seen where anyone tagged the Terrible Twos so I'm taggin T1G and BloodSpite - give 'em somethin' to do after their vacation. So that's three. *Ha! Teresa tagged T1G also - so now he can't be just mad at me!! ;-)* Johnny_Oh could have some fun with this - so there's four. Five, Five who should be number five? Oh, I know - Machelle, my Quality Daughter!!

Whew. I did it. Now - I've got to get some packing done. I can start moving boxes tomorrow!!!!!!

Today

Once upon a time I was a secretary. A bad one, but a secretary none the less. I started out as a temporary. Being who I am, and the fact that I found the industry and the company fascinating I took on anything/everything they would throw my way.

I even got to help design the computerized billing system. Didn't know squat about computers, but I knew what I needed it to do - and I'm not afraid to try much of anything. That led to me training the union guys on how to use it.

During that time I also took on the metallurgical reports. Didn't know squat about those either - but they sent me to school (as a temporary employee) so that I would understand how steel was made and the chemistry involved for different applications. I loved it.

Finally a position came open in the technology department. It was for a secretary. They begged me to apply. OK. During the interview I made it clear I didn't even know how to turn on a PC, couldn't type and my idea of filing was throw it in a folder and get it off my desk. My position before that I had my own secretary and also made sure they knew that. Despite everything they made the offer, I took it and a my life changed. (It's what led to me being in Florida.)

Anyway - I was not a typical secretary. Oh I learned to type. 70 wpm after a few short months (all those piano lessons finally paid off.) Figured out the computer well enough that I built my own. And I loved my guys. My VP was from Japan - and just a stitch. Scared to death of me - HA!!! The two directors under him were both American and typical engineers. Details, details, details. Then there were 18 engineers - 9 American and 9 Japanese. I was responsible for the Japanese acclimating to the culture of this country. Think about that for just a moment - doesn't that scare you to death?!?! LOL

Anyway - the divorce rate in this company was horrible. Because we were building this plant from the ground up it was lots and lots of hours. We all had cots in our office and things were so bad for people personally the company offered free marriage counciling. I had my own version. I learned the birth dates and anniversaries of everyone in my department and their families. I made sure dinner reservations were made, presents were bought and flowers delivered. I loved that!! BUT - I'm not a secretary. Not then, not now.

They knew it. So in time my job expanded. I started doing inspection of the critical steel, visiting our processor's plants, making sure things were smoothed out if someone was upset. I was the Ambassador. THAT is how I ended up in sales. Until that point - I didn't think I could sell a damned thing!

This company valued me - and because of that they had my loyalty and I LOVED to go to work.

Now - not so much. I have seen more and more evidence that the company I currently work for does not care about anything or anyone but the bottom line.

The only high point of this job was my friend (and blogdaughter) Talula. She offered advice, support and an ear on those days I just needed to vent.

Today - they laid her off. They eliminated her position. HA. They've been gunning for her for months. And they were slick about it. They took someone who is an engineer and tried to make her a secretary. Data entry, answer phones, spreadsheets and letters. They. Set. Her. Up.

Makes me wonder. Who's next?

Meanwhile - she's a single mom with three kids and a lot of other shit going on. I know, I know - business is business. BUT - this is different. Out of respect for her privacy I won't go into the details, but please - trust me on this one. I see it every day.

So - Talula. I'm sorry. I will miss your "Good Morning" and smile every day. The bomb that dropped in the pit when you left would have done you proud. You are better off and you will be sorely missed.

Respect or Lying

There is an ongoing debate in my family. We cousins have it constantly.

You see - we are very different around our family. Well - I'm not so much, but that's simply because I so suck at trying to hide my personality. BUT I do behave differently. Dress differently. Talk differently.

I remember my Mom and my aunt. Smokin' on the way to see my grandparents. And then doing everything they could think of to cover the smell of smoke. These were grown women, folks.

I remember hiding things in the house so that they weren't out and obvious when the family was coming over. Ashtrays, drinking (alcoholic) glasses, stuff like that. I never understood that.

As a teenager I was bound and determined to be "who I am". I got my ass kicked for wearing a sweater for Christmas one time that you could see my bra through. It was disrespectful. I cannot tell you how many times I've been yelled at for my skirts being too short. It was disrespectful.

One of my cousins still has to do that. Oh, she's not a "party animal" like I am, but she doesn't wear the conservative Cape Dress. She wears her hair up, but only wears a covering when she's at church. Her children wear store bought clothes, even - gasp - shorts. But not when my Aunt comes to town. It's considered disrespectful.

I don't know - I think I'm a respectful person. I try to watch my language when I'm around my family - and do pretty well for the most part. I do have certain things I will not wear around them. I don't flaunt the fact that I smoke - but I also don't hide it. I always figured "Love Me - just the way I am". I know that's how I feel about them.

But I'd love your take on this. Do you think we are wacked out? Or is it just the fact that we are sooo stuck in tradition that we're wacked out? LOL Seriously - where do you draw that line between Respect and Lying?

THAT Was an Adventure

What a day. WHAT a day!!! The good news? I learned a few somethings. Ya wanna know what they are?

1) Packing up kitchen 1 week before the move not the best of ideas. Yeah - kinda gotta eat sometime. I was STARVING this morning. All I could think of was food. It was pitiful. Honest to goodness.

2) Just because it's balmy and almost sorta warm in the morning.....when living in the frozen tundra TAKE your BOOTS with you to work.

...building on that last one....

3) Those pretty flat black Capizio's? Yeah, while they may look just lovely with your cuffed plumb slacks - THEY ARE NOT WARM AND THEY ARE NOT WATERPROOF. Cold. Wet. Feet. Yick.

4) When cleaning your car off - remember to clear the lights and to snap the windshield wipers to get rid of the ice. Seeing out of your windshield is a good thing - don'tcha know.

My normal 1 hour drive home took 2 1/2 hours tonite. This morning, upon arriving at work, I was told we would be getting 6-8 inches of snow. Having been married to a "manly man" for 11 years - I wasn't too worried. I know 6 inches and that ain't enough snow to worry about. ;-)

Well - someone's been lyin' to me!! Holy Crap. We got dumped on. AND the roads suck!! Did you know that a normal width road will narrow considerably when there is snow - drifting snow? Yeah, well, I forgot about that!

I'm sure it was just beautiful out. Heavy wet snow....all those beautiful fields.....but I couldn't see. I didn't dare take my eyes off the road!!!

I do have to say my car, Maggie May, performed wonderfully. Really - and I didn't push her too hard at all. And what a help she is. I found out there is a yellow light on my dash that says "Low Traction". Do ya wanna know how I know? Yeah - it was on the whole flippin' drive! WooHoo.

But - I'm home. I'm wrapped in my blanket. I'm not going to do one thing in this house tonite. I just want to relax and watch some TV. Maybe have a toddy or two.

I survivied!! I survived my First Real Snow in the Winter of '05.

Holiday Funny

First - if you haven't read Army Wife's BRILLIANT "child control" method - head on over there and check it out! Funny Stuff.

Now - today's funny makes me realize I wasn't NEARLY adamant enough in my quest for Christmas Gifts when I was younger......

On my list.....

....and I ain't talkin' the nice one, either!!!

Oh yeah, somebody is in BIG TROUBLE MISTER!!

Since I've moved up here, all I hear outta T1G is, "when's it gonna get cold? When's it gonna snow?" Whine Whine Whine.

So what happens? We get a bit of snow over the weekend. We are in SUBZERO Temperatures. Where's He at? The one who made the request? Yeah - he headed SOUTH!!!!! By the time he get's back the temps are supposed to be back up in the mid 30's.

AND, as if that isn't enough........

I get an email from him this morning at work. Letting me know the plans regarding hunting had changed. Oh - and making a point of letting me know he was getting to hold, feed and play with BloodSpite's beautiful little girl. OH - AND gonna go see one of my beloved BlogDaughters!!!!

That's just mean. MEAN MEAN MEAN.

Oh - and I will get even. Yes, yes I will. Not today. Not tomorrow. But someday. Someday - and believe me.......I don't have a digital camera for nothin'.

Mean - Mean I say!!!!

Current Status

I know, y'all must be just shaking with curiosity on how things are going here in Tammi's world.

Well - yesterday was the first in the Great Mouse Hunt of '05. I heard the "perp" in the kitchen last night. It actually kind of creeped me out. Hearing him. HOWEVER - I bought 4 traps, baited them with peanut butter and......nothin'. I got nothin'. Bastard.

However - I'm willing to bet (ok, hope) that I'll have a victim or two in those bad boys when I get home tonite.

As to the packin' and such of the house.......my goal is to have the entire kitchen and bedroom packed by Saturday. That leaves Sunday to pack up the living room. I'm in pretty good shape with that, at least I think so.

Regarding the Landlord. I've consulted a lawyer. I'm not going to just let this roll over me. I'm sending a letter that basically says - "Do what you need to do. I am. I'll see you in court." We'll see how he responds.

Work. Work is, well, work. Yesterday was pretty bad. By 1:00 I had a headache that made it almost impossible to even think. I shot an email to Bou, Teresa and Army Wife just so I could vent. The only way I could describe the headache was to say it had me "begging Motrin like a crack whore working Broadway". At least it's gone this morning. We had a couple of pretty big customer's in yesterday and that always makes things a bit tense(r). But it's fine. It's all fine.

So - I'm huntin' mice, packin' boxes and trying to keep warm. Did I mention it's -9 at my house this morning? Yeah - a bit nippy. BUT - I've just 8 days before I start to move. Eight Days. There isn't too much that could ruin that for me.

It's all good in Tammi's World.

Holiday Funny

Don't They Get It??!!

Let me start out by saying I am NOT a Quality Engineer. No - that is the specialty of my First Born (blog daughter that is) Machelle of Quality Weenie.

BUT - I do work in manufacturing and have had some experience in Quality and Quality Control.

Bear with me now - I have a very valid point in all this.

There is something called CIP - Continuous Improvement Process. In a nutshell - that is the process of constantly improving. Simple isn't it.

What my experience has been is basic. You have to accomplish something. You brainstorm to come up with the best possible plan. You have to start somewhere.

After you devise the plan, you implement it. Well, surprise surprise. It isn't perfect. It needs tweaking. So you tweak. You IMPROVE it.

And then you keep on working at it. It's like a living, breathing process. Always evolving. Not always good - but always TRYING!!!

OK - now, in the news I hear about the 9/11 Commision giving the government a failing grade on their efforts to thwart terrorism on our home soil.

Yeah - it's not good enough. Yet. We've got a long way to go. But given the rights we have, and trying to make as many people happy as possible - this is NOT an easy task.

So - I'm just wondering, if silly little salesgirl Tammi can get the whole concept of CIP - why can't the Commission??? Did they reall think it would be perfect "right out the box?"

I hate grandstand politics.

I'm #1, I'm #1

I'm finally #1 on a Google search that doesn't scare me.

Well, maybe a little - concerning my life as it is right now - but still!!!!

And it's MSN Search not Google - But that's beside the point. I'm #1!! I'm #1!!

See!

"7 ways how she already know you loved her"

And before you ask - no I don't know how to do a screen print to show you. Either take my word for it or follow the link. ;-)

I'm #1!!!!

Holiday Funny

I think this pretty well sums up my day!!!

Shut Up You!!

Howard Dean has crossed the line - again.

"The idea that the United States is going to win the war in Iraq is just plain wrong."

This type of statement from the head of the Democratic party? This is the man (term used very lightly) that wanted to be the leader of this country?

Shut up you stupid son of a bitch!! Just shut up now!!!

We have men and women putting their lives on the line, every day. We have men and women that have sacrificed all. THIS is how he shows his support? His patriotism? Yeah - this is just what our troops need to hear about now. The holidays, far from home. Thanks Dean - ya asshole.

I know, I know - this isn't the first time he's said something stupid like this - maybe I need to adjust my expectations. But I won't. I need to hear this jerk apologize. NOW. And you know what - it won't mean a thing. But I NEED to hear him say he was wrong.

Ohhhh - why oh why oh why do I let idiots piss me off like this?

Sneaky Sneaky

So I pop over to TNT's to see what she's got going on.

WTF? Tammi Christmas????

HEY - Thats my stuff!!!!!

How'd she do that?!?!?!

Yes, she actually has photos she took over Thanksgiving weekend of my feeble attempt to decorate here in this horrible excuse of a postage stamp abode.

I had no idea.

That's pretty funny.

Oh - and TNT? Tree will be up 2 days after the move - trust me. ;-)

Cody Would Have Protected Me

I miss my puppy.

For several reasons - the biggest is that when he lived here - the mice stayed the hell out.

Now - they are throwing parties in my living room. They're using the bathtub as their own personal sauna. Ok - maybe not all that - but they are here. In.My. House.

10 years in Florida - I had a snake in the garage and a couple scorpions. Up here 7 months? You don't want to know.

I cannot wait to move. Oh - and before you ask - NO the damned mice are NOT moving with me.

Holiday Funny

You can't fight it - It's CHRISTMAS TIME!! WooHoo

And even though this year is a bit weird for me - moving the weekend before the big day - I'm still really starting to catch "the fever".

I wish y'all could have seen T1G's face when I told him I would have my Christmas tree up and decorated in my new home the Monday evening after the move. I'm pretty sure he's convinced I'm not clickin' on all cylanders by now. LOL

Anyway - I want to share some of this holiday spirit with y'all so I'll be posting some Holiday Funnies off and on throughout the next few weeks. I got these from my wonderful, charming and hysterically funny blogless niece Carmen - and they are just too cute not to share.

So - without further ado - our first entry is:

Deep Breathe

Ok feel a bit calmer after my 3 hours of sleep. I'd apologize for the post below but I can't. It's just my temper. Just be glad you weren't here to see it live and in person. Yeah...not a great night in Tammi's World.

Now that I've settled down a bit I can see that I've got to follow through with this. I truly believe this guy thinks he has all the power. He has made two mistakes. Judging me based on where I live and underestimating me.

I'm a nice girl....until you put me in the corner.

I think the thing that pisses me off the most is that he made it personal in his letter. He stated he feels I have a "hidden agenda". Oh there is nothing hidden about it. I said flat out that I was looking to move. I told him how horrible this place is.

He said I didn't say anything about any of these problems during the inspection. Yes, yes I did...but also I am just the tennent. He, at that time was the prospective buyer. It wasn't my place to do that.

He said I told him I would install new locks. No. I said I would install new security latches for when I was home. They don't do a damned thing when I'm gone. WHY would I install new locks?

OK....I could go on and on. But I won't. I'm just so upset that he is reacting this way. That he's slingin' mud this way.

I don't like to get mad. I don't like to be a bitch. But I'm gonna have to. Someone needs to take this guy down a peg or two. Guess it's gonna be me... but damn.

NOW I'm Pissed

Ok - let's review. I live in hell. It's a little bitty tiny house that 1) I can't heat properly because the gap in the screen door is so large and and not to mention the hole in the storm door and 2) I cannot properly secure my home. It is not good.

I met with the new landlord about 3 weeks ago. I reviewed these things with him. Told him I had new latches to secure the door when I am home but that something needed to be done with the locks. I also requested that he fix the damn gap.

ALSO - the new landlord insisted on a 60 day notice with a month to month lease. Oh HELL No. That is about as unreasonable as you can get.

Now - fast forward to Thanksgiving weekend. I find the Blue Cracker House. I sign the lease. I give notice to my landlord and request that he apply the last months rent to the last month. This was the arrangement with the other landlord.

Tonite I arrive home to a letter - no really more of a booklet. It seems the son of a bitch is suing me for rent (and legal fees) through Feb. of 06. Seems he feels I had a hidden agenda. Seems he believes that I am full of shit.

Oh HELL No. This dog does not hunt. He has pissed off the wrong girl this time. I will NOT sit back and let him railroad me. I will be sending another letter correcting his misconceptions and letting him know that I will NOT be taken advantage of.

I think he's afraid he won't rent it. And believe me - I agree. Later this week I will be taking photos of the doors in question, the latch that does not latch and posting them here on my site for your comments. If ya think I'm wrong, tell me. Please - don't let me make an ass of myself.

However - I have to believe I'm right.

I cannot begin to tell you how angry I am. This, this, this person has dared to call me a liar and an opportunist. HA. What a crock of shit that is.

Obviously I'm a little pissed off. (#1 clue - I'm repeating myself) So - I'll go now. I may need to do a shot. And then go to sleep. I'm hoping when I wake up in the morning I don't really have to be the bitch it looks like I'm gonna have to be. I hate it when someone pisses me off.

Hmmmm

You Are "All I Want For Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth"

Gee, if I could only Have my two front teeth, Then I could wish you "Merry Christmas." At Christmas, you are a happy soul who's easy to please. You're biggest concern is making those around you smile.

I was hoping for something more sophisticated. But....truth be told - this is pretty damned accurate.

Found at "A Cool Change".

Tagged Again!

AlliCadem, over at Can I have some Whine... has tagged me on one of the latest memes. This one, at first, seems pretty easy. But the trick is to tell 5 facts that I haven't shared with y'all and that aren't tooooo personal. Hmmmm.......

Here are the directions: Write 5 random facts about yourself, and then list the names of 5 people whom you in turn infect. Also, leave a post to these people letting them know they have been infected

Five Facts:

1) I don't like hot tubs. Nope - I've tried. Honestly. When I had my condo I'd take some wine and head on down to the hot tub during those winter nights (hey, it get's cold down there) but I never could just sit in hot water. It's too damned hot. Yeah - not something I'm ever going to "need" in my life.

2) I'm shy. Really. Truly. Oh - I can fake otherwise, but deep down inside, I'm still that awkward 9 year old, too tall, too skinny, too clumsy. Don't know what to say, and terrified that I'll be rejected. If you were to meet me and we didn't know each other at all - you'd be amazed at the butterfies I'd be dealing with. I fight that every day.

3) I've been fired from two jobs. One because I was sooo young and didn't understand office politics. When you work with the bosses daughter - keep your mouth shut. The other - because I refused to break my word. If I make a promise it's not just lip service. I don't say something just to make someone happy. Not my style. Cost me a job. I can live with that.

4) Up until three years ago I was terrified of guns. TERRIFIED. I had been shot in the head as a youngster (I heard that! Be nice!) as well as had some "incidents" with my ex husband. It wasn't until I started reading blogs that I had the chance to "meet" people who respected guns, knew how to be responsible and I've learned - through them - that it's not the guns I need to be afraid of.

5) For someone who loves to cook as much as I do, and someone who can "food talk" with the best of the - I'm a picky eater. Really. I don't like broiled anything. I've tried. Can't get it past the fork. I only eat white meat chicken and turkey. Not thrilled about casseroles. Not a big fan of chocolate cake. The list could go on and on. Trust me. I like what I like, the way I like it prepared.

Now I'm supposed to tag five other people. Hmmmmm........I think I'll just leave that up to y'all. If you want to play along in the comments or - better yet - post it on your site and leave me a trackback. It's not a bad exercise for a Sunday morning.

I just realized something...

......when I move I will have the room to set up my keyboard again.

I can make music.

It just keeps getting better and better.

Wow

I don't have any tattoos. Like Sarah - never thought of anything I wanted inked into my skin.

But I'm fascinated with the stories behind those that people do choose.

And THIS STORY just made me weep. In pride and in sharing as much of their loss as is possible when you don't know. When you haven't been there.

Do yourself a favor - go and read it. And then tell me it didn't touch your heart.

Hat Tip Sarah at Trying to Grok

Every Woman Has One

....a bra story that is. Hey - what did you think I meant??

Anyway - Bou has been on a search to discover what her actual bra size is. I wish ya luck darlin'. My experience is every style is different. But that's a story for another day.

I was reading through her post telling us about her and VW's shopping experience and it brought to mind a little story from my past.

Back when I first moved to Florida I lost a boat load of weight. I was down to about 130 pounds - and at 6'2" that's a tad bit on the skinny side. And I mean there wasn't an ounce of fat ANYWHERE on my body. I've never been one to worry about my lack of "attributes" but I noticed that none of my dresses were "laying" right. Hmmm....not good. I spent too damned much money on those beauties to not be a show stopper. I figured I better do something about it.

So I took my niece Carmen with me to Victoria Secret. I thought I'd get their version of the Wonderbra - for those special occasions where breasts were needed.

Now - Carmen isn't exactly what I'd call shy. No - not at all. But she was a teenager. You know how teenagers are...easily embarrassed. Enter Aunt Tammi.

hehehehe

As we walked into the mall I explained to her what I was trying to find. However, I couldn't remember the name of the damned bra.

We get to VS and make our way to the Wall-O-Bras. A nice sales clerk comes up and askes if she could help.

Tammi: Sure. I'm looking for...umm, what's it called? Oh yea - I need one of those Instant Boob Bras.

Silence.

As I turn to Carmen I realize I can't. I can't turn to her because she is gone. Vanished. Left me.

Huh.

After making my purchase I found her outside the store and we made our way back to her Mom's house. Her only comment?

I'm never going shoppping with you again.

hehehehehe

Mission accomplished.

The Darkest Hour......

My least favorite time of the day is 3:00am and it seems like I see it much more often than I want. Oh, and not like the old days when I was just stumbling home. Oh, I'm stumbling alright - stumbling out of bed trying to figure out why in the WORLD I can't sleep.

I enjoy the mornings. Always have. I enjoy the start of a new day - wondering what it will bring, how things will unfold. What will bring a smile or a tear. But oh how I hate that time "just before".

I've been dealing with this "middle of the night" stuff for more years than I can count. When I was married it wasn't so bad. It was MY time. Everyone else in the house was sleeping. No one needed me to get them anything, fix anything, do ANYthing. I could sit at the kitchen table, cup of coffee or tea and just BE.

But now? Now I just hate this time. It reinforces the fact that all my time is MY time. It only emphasises the solitude.

In ten years I haven't learned how to deal with this. How to beat it. So I guess I'll just go ahead and start my day. I'll take my shower and get dressed. I'll fix myself a little breakfast and begin to work through my list of things to do. This should make me happy. With everything I have to get done, the extra few hours are actually a good thing.

But right now - in the middle of the night - not so much.

Will I Ever Learn

So last night I realized I need to put some gas in the car. BUT it was only 22 degrees out and I had what you might call a rough day. I figured I'd just do it this morning.

When will I learn? This morning? Yeah - it's 10 degrees out. TEN DEGREES. And I get to pump gas.

One hell of a way to start the day. Oh Shit - I hope the car starts. YIKES.

Temper Temper

I have a bit of a temper. Oh, I keep a pretty tight reign on it most of the time, but if push comes to shove....yeah, well let's just say I'm not one to back down. Especially if I truly believe I'm right.

As you all know I'm trying to make a move. In 2 weeks. A lot to do in a little time - especially given that I cannot take any time off of work, and I can't really do too much ahead as there is no room to put boxes and such. So I do what I can.

My focus the last couple of days was transferring utilities. WooHoo. Gas - done. Electric - done. Direct TV - done gotta have my football Water - done. Then I called the phone company. Verizon. That would be where we had a bit of an issue. I have them for both DSL and phone - so this was kind of important.

I won't go into a lot of detail, let's just say they pushed me waaaaayyyyyy over the edge. Pissed me off in a way I haven't been in more time than I can say. To the point that I told them to turn the DSL off on the 15th and they could take their phone line and shove it.

Then I called the cable company and ordered broadband for the new house. WooHoo - thirty bucks cheaper than DSL. That's a very good thing. Then I called Vonage. Same phone package but forty bucks cheaper. That is a VERY good thing.

The downside? Yeah - well, no phone for two weeks. But I'm finding I'm pretty much alright with that. I call Mama Vi from work and check on her. I manage to check in with a few folks quickly during the day - just to make sure everyone/thing is good.

Meanwhile - I'm saving seventy bucks a month just because I got ticked off and didn't do things "the easy way". Damn - that worked out pretty well. And - without a phone to distract me I might just get packed and such in plenty of time.

Cool

graphic doesn't work and I don't know enough on how to mess with it - sorry. But I think the results are pretty cool.

The spirit of the bear follows you. You are a very
down-to-earth person, lots of people find you
easy to get along with. You care a lot about
your family and freinds and you are a curious
person and like meeting new people. But there
is something that lies beneth(sp?) all of that
kind ness, an agressive person that will kill
if you have to. Yes, you love people, but if
the mess with you too much then out comes the
beast within. People that have experienced this
side of you keep their distance.


What animal spirit follows you?[gender friendly,8 different results,((PICS)) READ MEMO!!]
brought to you by Quizilla

Found at Techography

Appropriate

Today is December 1st. And I woke up to a couple of inches of snow on the ground.

Now - I'll tell you a secret but you gotta promise not to tell anyone. 'Mkay.

I did a happy dance. It's beautiful. It's that thick,wet snow that sticks to the trees. It's exactly what I wanted for a first snow this year.

Oh - I'm sure I'll be bitchin' and complainin' in no time - but right now. This morning - it's beautiful.