Tammi's World

I'd Like to Apologize

I sooooo need to update my blogroll. I haven't added/changed a damn thing since BEFORE Fritz Feast.

Holy Crap.

And I have no excuses. It's not like I'm puttin' in a bunch of long hours or busy watchin' kids or....

Yeah, I got nothin'.

But I have been surfin' along. Honest. I just use other, more responsible peoples blogrolls. Thank goodness not everyone is as bad as I am.

So I'll fix it. Honest injun. Oh, not today. Not tomorrow. But soon. It's on my list. ;-)

Recipes

Didn't have the best of days yesterday. And we all know what I do when I'm bored or stressed. So - I thought I'd look up some recipes. I've got a cravin' or twenty......

Just what the doctor ordered....

3-Mile Long Island Iced Tea
Ingredients:
* 1/2 oz Gin
* 1/2 oz Light rum
* 1/2 oz Tequila
* 1/2 oz Triple sec
* 1/2 oz Vodka
* Coca-Cola
* Sweet and sour
* 1-2 dash Bitters
* 1 wedge Lemon

Mixing instructions:
Fill 14oz glass with ice and alcohol. Fill 2/3 glass with cola and remainder with sweet & sour. Top with dash of bitters and lemon wedge.

Or maybe.....

A Day at the Beach
Ingredients:
* 1 oz Coconut rum
* 1/2 oz Amaretto
* 4 oz Orange juice
* 1/2 oz Grenadine

Mixing instructions:
Shake Rum, Amaretto, and Orange Juice in a shaker filled with ice. Strain over ice into a highball glass. Add Grenadine and garnish with a Pineapple Wedge and a Strawberry. just what the doctor ordered....

This is no surprise....

Apple Martini
Ingredients:
* 1 part Vodka (Absolut)
* 1 part Sour Apple schnapps (Pucker)
* 1 part Apple juice

Mixing instructions:
Poor all ingredients into a shaker. Shake well and strain into a Martini glass.

Ohhh some attitude adjustments...perfect..........

Attitude Adjustment Version 1
Ingredients:
* Bailey's irish cream
* Root beer schnapps
* Southern Comfort

Mixing instructions:
Layer.

Attitude Adjustment #2
Ingredients:
* 1/4 oz Vodka
* 1/4 oz Gin
* 1/4 oz Triple sec
* 1/4 oz Amaretto
* 1/4 oz Peach schnapps
* 1/4 oz Sour mix
* 1 splash Cranberry juice

Mixing instructions:
Pour all ingredents into a mixing tin with ice, and strain into glass.

And that's just the A's!!!

Shit

Well, just heard from THE company.

I'm out.

Son of a BITCH.

That one's gonna leave a mark...........................................................

UPDATE: in the last five minutes the HR director for this company and I have traded no less than 6 emails. It seems they went with an internal candidate (makes me feel a bit better) and want to know if I am willing to relocate. At least I know they liked me.....

I HATE Unemployement

Pissed off. Yep, that's me about now.

I've jumped through all the appropriate hoops, filled out the numerous forms - on-line and paper, and basically swallowed every ounce of pride I've managed to aquire. All because I had to file for unemployment.

But I need it. I earned it. Well, and I need it.

And there have been issues. Because I worked the first quarter of 05 in Florida, Illinois had to go back to them. Doesn't matter that in the 9 months I worked here I more than qualified. Oh Noooooo. Let's just muddy the water a bit. Delay things.

So finally, finally I am scheduled for my conference call. Seems that anyone who is "terminated" (I SOOOO hate that word) has to go throught this, even if the employer is not fighting the unemployement. Anyway, it's scheduled for 10:00 this morning.

I'm home. Sitting here. Watching the clock tick.

I'm not looking for a job because I am waiting.

So I call. I got voicemail.

All I'm gonna say is SOMEONE better get back to me today. I've waited almost 2 months for a check. This could get ugly. (I should probably mention this is all made worse by the fact that I am sitting here OUT of cigarettes too!)

She's Got a Way With Words.....

The Cheesmistress strikes again.

Damn - I'm glad to have her back blogging.

Craving

So yesterday afternoon I got a hankerin'.

For no bake cookies.

The plate is almost empty.

Anyone know where they have mumu's on sale???

Match Maker

One of the things I needed to get done yesterday was fill out the Skills Inventory schtuff for Illinois Job Match. Simple, you tell them what you can do, at what level and they send you job leads.

It's very time consuming because you have to go into EVERY job category to access the skills list. There really is no logic as to where they assign the different things. So, since I had more than enough time I sat down and worked my way through. I have to admit I was rather pleased with not only the skills that I could claim, but my experience in them. Surely I'll find SOMETHING!

And then it happened. The same thing that always happens. I went ahead an hit "job match".

Now let me give you a bit of information. I used to use on-line dating services. (stick with me folks, there's a point here. I promise!) I met a lot of great guys that way, and some real losers. But-never anything that "clicked". And the majority of the time, after filling out the profile, it would come back with NO matches. That's right. Of the thousands of people in those data bases, I got nothin'.

Well, that's what happened yesterday. I hit "job match" and it comes back with......No Matches Found.

I can type 70 wpm. I know Access, Exel, PowerPoint. I can be charming. Hell, at this point I'd take an Admin. Asst. job. I've done it before - I can do it again. I'll work retail. I'll do just about anything about now.

Nothing? Nothing??

I've always hated being "matched up". Guess it's cause I know, deep down inside - I'm just too unique.

What Were They Thinkin'???

I keep talking about this commercial, so I figure maybe if I post about it I can get it out of my mind.

It's the new M-Azing Candy Bar ad. You know, M&M's in a candy bar.

Yeah, it starts out with an old station wagon at lovers' lane. Windows steamed up. Car a rockin'.

Close up on the inside. A pile of M&M's stretched out on a blanket - candy bar layin' next to it.

But then we get to the part that blows my mind every time. The voiceover guy sayin'(paraphrased): M&M candy's deep inside a creamy chocolate bar.

OMG! Like THAT is gonna get me to buy one of those. I swear to Pete. I really don't want a candy bar bringin' up THOSE kinda thoughts every time I eat it. For cryin' out loud - that's why I eat candy. To deal with those cravings. (damn - hope that wasn't TMI)

Here's the link. Watch it if you don't know what I'm talkin' about.

Am I over reactin' here?????

Yet ANOTHER 12 Step Program...

But I did have fun.

Oh yes I did.

Let me tell you my little adventure from this afternoon.

I had to run up to Rockford for a moment and happened to park right in front of a mattress store. Hmmmm - they sell Simmons. So after I got done with my errand, I decided to just stop in. See what they had going on.

Now, given the neighborhood and the center this store was in I didn't expect much. Boy, I couldn't have been more WRONG.

They had the best line-up I've ever seen. I was very impressed.

I explained to the sales person that I was just checking things out, for old times sake. We got to talkin', she asked some questions and the next thing you know I was conducting a full blown training session. Yep, in my undone hair, baggy jeans and stretched out sweater. Oh, and not one lick of make-up. Yeah, I looked REAL professional.

But it was fun. And it just rolled along. I hadn't really forgotten anything, and we were more focused on making her comfortable selling rather than product knowledge. Although I did teach her how to sell the adjustable bases.

As I left she gave me a hug and told me how much she appreciated my stopping by. Seems they hadn't seen an official rep in a long time, and she was really in need of some help.

Hehe. I know I shouldn't have. I know it doesn't do any good. Except remind me how much I love training. How much I love consumer sales. Yeah, it was very fun.

But I still think I ought to look into seeing if there are any programs out there for has been reps.

Silence

It's so damned quiet today. Sometimes, I really enjoy the silence. It's calming. It regenerates me. And sometimes it screams at me. Making me tense and angry.

Today it frightens me.

Maybe I'm just jumpy from last night. I got a very late night phone call. Late as in it either better be my bestest friend or someone died. It was a friend, and it was nice to catch up - but still.......the foundation had been poured.

I woke up skittish. Jumpy as it were. I can't seem to sit still. Can't seem to maintain a thought process to compeletion. I keep waiting for the shoe to drop.

Maybe it's the chill in the air. Maybe it's the gray from all the rain. I don't know at this point. I just need for the silence to go away.

And it's not like I don't have things running. I have the XM radio goin' in the living room. I've talked on the phone a couple of times this morning. But the silence drowns all that out.

The sounds of silence. Sometimes that's just not a good thing. Not a good thing at all.

Can't Beat 'em

Ok - I'll give this a shot. Saw this at Bou's and Quality Weenie's sites.

Answer yes or no......damn - some are "sorta's"....this could be tougher than I thought....

Taken a picture naked? : Yes (already I'm wantin' to break the rules. Let me explain this one....)
Made out with a member of the same sex? : No
Danced in front of your mirror? : Yes
Told a lie? : Yes
Gotten in a car with people you just met?: Yes
Been in a fist fight? : Yes
Had feelings for someone who didn’t have them back? : Yes
Been arrested? : No (this is one of those sorta's)
Slept in a bed with a member of the same sex? : Yes
Seen someone die? : Yes
Kissed a picture? : Yes
Slept in until 3? : Yes
Laid on your back and watched cloud shapes go by? : Yes
Played dress up? : Yes
Fallen asleep at work? : Yes
Had sex at work? : No
Felt an earthquake? : No
Touched a snake? : Yes
Ran a red light? : Yes
Been in a car accident? : Yes
Pole danced? : No
Been lost? : Yes (I almost put No just to see if anyone was payin' attention)
Sang karaoke? : Yes
Done something you told yourself you wouldn’t? : Yes
Laughed until something you were drinking came out your nose? : Yes
Caught a snowflake on your tongue? : Yes
Kissed in the rain? : Yes
Sang in the shower? : Yes
Got your tongue stuck to a pole? : No
Sat on a roof top? : Yes
Played chicken? : Yes
Raised chickens? : Yes
Been pushed into a pool with all your clothes on? : Yes
Been told you’re hot by a complete stranger? : Yes
Broken a bone? : Yes
Mooned/flashed someone? : Yes
Forgotten someone’s name? : Yes
Slept naked? : Yes
Blacked out from drinking? : Yes
Played a prank on someone? : Yes
Felt like killing someone? : Yes
Made a parent cry? : Yes
Cried over someone? : Yes
Had sex more than 5 times in one day? : Yes
Had/Have a dog? : Yes
Been in a band? : Yes
Drank 25 sodas in a day? : Yes
Shot a gun? : Yes

Hmmm....I'm just wondering if I need to put those No's on the list of Things I Need to do Before I die...

No, I'm thinkin' not.

Just Lucky I guess

It's pouring out.

Fine. We need the rain.

However......

.....the motor in my car window stopped working last week. The window is cracked about, ohhhhh 2 inches.

I'm just gonna think of it as my car needed a good cleaning out any way.

Damn. All you can do is laugh. It's just my luck.

One Step....

I just heard from the recruiter on the job that caught my attention last week.

I made it through the first stage. Now they are presenting me to the hiring manager of the company.

Damn - I hope this thing is legit.

One step down.......

Just a Sandwich

Daddy was a sandwich man. Oh...did he love sandwiches. And came up with some pretty inventive ones.

Let's see - there was the radish and butter sandwhich. The Onion sandwich, with butter or (if he was feelin' daring) peanut butter. Just about any food you can think of he would make into a sandwich.

His favorite? Grilled peanut butter and dill pickle. Yes, you read that right. He LOVED a grilled PB&DP sandwich. And you guessed it - we all ate what Daddy ate.

The funny thing is that after all these years.........I'm craving one. I was just sitting reading a book and realized I was starving. Next thing I know I'm grillin' me a peanut butter sandwich. As I started to slice the pickle I realized I just couldn't go that far. So I'm havin' my dill pickle ala carte.

But still........kind of a wierd lunch. Even for me. (and NO - it's not what you're thinkin'!!!)

What about you? What's the strangest sandwich you've had - and liked? (and I'm talkin' food sources guys......)

Nothin' Much

Well, it's Monday. And just so you know? I'm very proud of myself for even realizing that fact. The days are starting to meld together. The only way I know the date is by looking at my blog. I'm gonna need to get a calendar. That's all there is to it.

I do have to tell you - I made a kick ass pork roast yesterday. I woke up the other morning, having dreamt of a hog roast we used to have every year. We'd slow roast that pig, after stuffin' him with saurkraut, peppers, potatoes and carrots. It was just out of this world. Bein' as I don't see a hog roast in my near (or distant) future, I thought I would try to recreate it. I did pretty well. I actually can't wait for dinner today just so I can enjoy the damned left overs. I highly recommend it folks - really. Just put it all in a nice big covered dish and slow roast that bad boy on 250 for about 6 hours. Yummy. I promise.

They are sayin' we may get some snow tomorrow morning. Figures. I just packed all my heavy sweaters away. Yeah, you winter lovers can thank me later. WTF?!?! It's been beautiful lately. Flowers are even starting to bloom!! But than I remember last year, when I got up here, we had snow in late April. Cody had never seen it before and went nuts. Still - I thought we were past all that. I really didn't want to turn the furnace back on.

As you can tell from this post - I really don't have too much goin' on right now. Hoping to hear about a couple of jobs I posted on last week. One has especially caught my attention. I don't want to jinx myself so I'll just ask for good thoughts/prayers. It would be a great opportunity. I should hear something by Wednesday on that one.

Other than that.....I got nothin'. Not a damn thing. Sorry - I wish I could regale you with funny situations or tense moments, but other than my new neighbors I don't have much. And in all honesty I'm too distracted to even give them much attention.

Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. It's just Wrong

Yick. No, that doesn't capture the essence. Blech. Nope, not quite right.

SICK. Ok - that's a bit closer.

And I'm not judging, really. I just can't imagine.......

What? You don't know what I'm talking about? Oh, sorry. Must not have enough coffee yet this morning.

In case you haven't seen it, T1G has a post up about fetishes. Of sorts. Now - the links from his post probably aren't safe for work, but you'll get the general message from what he's written. (His post is SFW - it's just the links might get ya in some trouble!)

All I'm gonna say is ---- people shittin' on each other a turn on? Uhhhh no. And no again.

But, being the dedicated blogger that he is, T1G had to do some investigating. He asked the tough questions and came up with more.......yick.

Then - just because some of us are more visual than others - he went and drew a picture. A "work of art" as he refers to it. Yeah, ok.

But seriously, this is just weird. I guess I am a bit more old fashioned than I thought. But I'm not really into sharing THAT much with my partner. No. Not so much.

Check it out.....

Just Another Quiz

Good post for a Sunday.....

You Are Sunrise

You enjoy living a slow, fulfilling life. You enjoy living every moment, no matter how ordinary. You are a person of reflection and meditation. You start and end every day by looking inward. Caring and giving, you enjoy making people happy. You're often cooking for friends or buying them gifts. All in all, you know how to love life for what it is - not for how it should be.

Found over at Jay & Deb's place

MilBlog Conference

I would give just about anything to have been able to attend the MilBlog conference in DC this weekend - but alas, no such luck.

But - there is a chat with live webcast goin' on. That's where I've been hangin' out for most of the day.

Go here to Mudville and join in.

I'm going to grab some lunch and I'll be back......

Saturday Question

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

OK - Here goes: What is your favorite dessert? (Feel free to link or leave the recipe btw.)

I've had a terrible sweet tooth lately. Just terrible. I made the infamous Guiness Brownies the other day, but they just aren't sweet. I hear they taste good, but just way to bitter for me. I think my favorite dessert - today - is my turtle cake. Well, either that or my Grandma's Peanut Butter Pie (which I haven't made since I moved up here. and I can't share the recipe for that. If I did, I'd have to kill ya. Family secrets and all.)

So anyway - what dessert, what sweet somethin' has got your mouth a waterin' today????

Ahhh Friends - what would we do without them?

Intentions. GOOD intentions. We all have them.

For instance - the other day I was having a "feel sorry for Tammi" day. Poor T1G ended up being my audience.

As I lamented about my lack of marketable skills he chimes in with, what I'm sure in his mind, was an excellent suggestion.

Tammi: I have no other options. I have no marketable skills.
T1G: Yes you do. You would be a great stunt person.
Tammi: ?
Tammi: Well, I do fall well.
T1G: Yeah, and if you time it right, when the bruises go from purple and black to yellow it could look like a tan.
Tammi:...............

Like I said - good intentions, I'm sure.

Stupid. Just Stupid

Leave it to my good friend Teresa. She found the PERFECT example of stupidity.

Folks - let me just say - if a strange man showed up at my door I just don't see myself believing he's a doctor doin' door to door exams.

Yeah, not so much. Hell, everyone knows doctors don't make house calls!!!!

Oh - and in case you didn't see it - Teresa's Young Son is on his way home for R&R. WooHoo. That's wonderful news!!

Uhhh, No. And No Again

Well that was a waste of a perfectly good quarter tank of gas. Can I just say that?

I was up bright and early this morning, and despite many trials and tribulations (IOW, coffee not made, skirt didn't fit) I made it to the interview with time to spare.

Within moments of sitting down, I am told I am not the right kind of sales person. I'll give this guy credit for noticing that. However, that is all the credit I am willing to offer.

Some highlights:

*PLEASE - look me in the eye while we are having a conversation. My boobs are NOT that big so it's not like they're a big distraction.

*Actual statement made by this manager: "We make the data up". I heard that and I swear to heaven I cannot believe the amount of self control I exibited. Seriously - I'm an analyst and lover of data. You tell me you make shit up.....I walk. Period.

*No opportunity for advancement. Basically this means that at the ripe age of 65 I would still be pounding the pavement. Yeah - not so much.

I don't need to worry about it though. He's not calling back. They are looking for more 'deal to deal' sales people. I am long term, relationship sales. I would make his head explode - and I don't mean that in a good way.

So - that was a bust. Oh well. It's a numbers game. The more I get out there the better chance I'll find "IT". Meanwhile, I'm just pluggin' away. I found a couple things that really got my heart a pumpin' so we'll just have to see what comes out in the wash.

It's all golden.

Have you ever noticed....

Damn. I really messed up.

I took yesterday "off". Didn't do a damned thing that was productive. Oh, I applied for a couple of jobs but other than that? Nothin.

Meals were just warmed up lasagna. I didn't do any dishes (and I should have), no laundry (really should have) Nothing. I sat and read.

So this morning I get up and my kitchen looks like it's been hit by a tornado. Oops. I hate that.

Then I see where I really screwed up last night. I made the coffee ahead and set the timer. It worked just fine....except I forgot to put the pot back. Yeah, that's lovely. Just lovely.

What I wanted to wear for the interview won't work. So I had to make a few changes. Not a disaster, but just a pain.

You know, you'd think me just bein' home I'd stay up on all that stuff and everything would just be honkey dorey. Clean house, clean kitchen, laundry done, everything perfect. Nope. Not here. I have read a bunch of books - but other than that.......

Looks like this weekend will be one of cleaning and schtuff.

Never fails - no matter what I do, if I take a day off I end up with a HUGE mess.

2nd Choice

Well, it looks like they offered the position to the other candidate. I was told if he turns it down then I'm the second choice.

Kinda torn about this. I need the paycheck. Yes, yes I do. I would have taken the job if it had been offered.

BUT here is where my ethics get me in trouble. I would have kept looking. This is not something I want to be doing in 5 years. Hitting the street day after day is hard work. And as I get older, it gets harder. Pretty soon all I'll be is charming, and that would make it even more difficult.

I don't take jobs with the thought that I'll just keep looking for something else. Hiring and training employees is an investment a company makes. An expensive investment. I usually only take positions that I feel will last.

So, for the company, I hope this guy takes the job. He's a street seller. From what I understand this is the type of sales he loves. Me? Not so much. Oh-I'd have done it and given my all. But in the back of my mind......

So anyway - I have an interview this morning and need to head out the door. I got a great lead yesterday that I'm hoping to hear back on early next week. Still waiting to hear from THE company. AND Cuz has come up with some great leads that I'm following. All is not lost.

But damn - a pay check would sure be nice right about now.

Course of Time

This week marks one year that I've been in Northern Illinois.

One year since I've left Florida. 365 days. Wow.

This morning I was feelin' a bit "mushy" and had on some "lighter" music. The kind of stuff my friends always listened to on the boat. Took me right back........

Sittin' on the lanai, sippin' on Capt'n and Diet, munchin' on this incredible salad she makes, he standin' out by the BBQ from where the most incredible fragrance of grilled fish eminated. Music blaring, no conversation. Just each of us lost in the memory of yet another beautiful sunset over the Gulf.

Yes, I do miss Florida. I miss Cuz, and Carmen, Lee Ann, my friend Joyce, my other cousin and her family. I miss a lot of folks. I miss the water. The sand. The essence of standing on the pier, with a light breeze to cool suntanned cheeks. Yeah, I miss that.

BUT - given all that is my present.....I'm glad I'm here. Oh, I wish the job market was better. But all in all it's good. It's all golden.

Just hard to believe it's been a year already. Wow - time sure does fly.

Blue? Blue????

You Are a Blue Flower

A blue flower tends to represent peace, openness, and balance. At times, you are very delicate like a cornflower. And at other times, you are wise like an iris. And more than you wish, you're a little cold, like a blue hydrangea.

Yes, as Johnny_Oh is always telling me - I am a delicate f'ing flower! ;-)

But cold? COLD?!?!? And what's this crap about balance?? In my dreams! And another thing....why is everything in my life BLUE anymore??

Found over at Leslie's

Food Talk

There's no secret about the fact that I enjoy cooking. I may not be the greatest, but I sure do enjoy it.

If I'm stressed? I cook. If I'm bored? I cook. There is nothing I like better than having people sittin' around eating a meal that I prepared. (Ok, there is SOMETHING, but we're not going into that right now!)

So what happens when I can't cook? Simple really. I food talk. No lie, I can describe a meal or dish in such a way it almost sounds p0rnographic. Really.

And I have a friend that is better at it than I am. In fact, I learned from her. We would sit in our cubies at work and Food Talk for most of the day. By lunch time, folks were rushin' out the door and it never failed - which ever resturant specialized in what we were talkin' about was PACKED. We should have charged those places for the free advertising, now that I think of it.

But seriously, the next best thing to cookin' is talkin' about it. And food can be sexy. Really. For instance when Eric mentions the Boston Creme cake he purchased for his wife and her co-workers I can't tell you where my mind went. That rich, dark chocolate. Creamy vanilla puddin' so smooth and sweet on your tongue. Add that luscious chocolate glaze and well...the combination just pushes the limits of decadence. And decadence is sexy - don't you think?

Ummm, excuse me, got a little side tracked there.........

Anyway, I just wondered does anyone else enjoy food talk like I do? Is this a common trait or am I truly as "unique" as I'm told?

Used and Abused

Just thought I'd give you an update on that tactical error from the other day.

Cats are fickle beings. Really. I've seen that cat roamin' around the neighborhood for days. So I finally give in. A little talkin'. A little milk. And phewy.

It got what it wanted and dropped me like a hot potato.

Not a sign of it any where. Gone. Just gone.

Wham Bam Thank Ya Ma'am.

I feel so used......

Finally...

This has been the longest week.

I've had nothing but computer problems since the storms on Sunday. For the past couple of days I couldn't hardly get on line....and as of last night nothin'. Nada.

But today - after fearlessly braving the so called "help lines" I got 'er workin'.

Finally.

I was going crazy. No blogging. No email. No job postings. Nothing.

But all is right in Tammi's World now. Yes, yes indeed.

Oh, and BTW - I'll hear about that job sometime tomorrow. Pins and needles folks. Pins. And. Needles.

I am.....

I just couldn't resist!!!

Guinness (100% dark & bitter, 66% working class, 100% genuine)

Okay, we all know Guinness is the best possible score on any "What Kind Of Beer Are You" test, so you can just go on and pat yourself on the back now. Like the world's most famous brew, you're genuine, you've got good taste, and you're sophisticated. What else can I say, except congratulations? If your friends didn't score the same way, get ready for them to say: Guinness is too heavy; it's an acquired taste; it's too serious--and they probably think those things about you at times. But just brush 'em off. Everybody knows Guinness is the best. Cheers.

Found via:
Dash , Richmond , Ktreva

Uh Oh

I may have just made a tactical error.

Yep, I'm pretty sure I did.

But you see, I'm pretty soft hearted. And I have this thing for animals. And, well, there's this really pretty white a gray kitten been hanging around for a couple of days....so sweet. No very old - I'm betting under a year. And, well, it's sooo hungry.....and just one bowl of milk couldn't hurt tooooooo much, could it? And, it's just so cute.

Yeah, this may have been a tactical error.

Damn it. This could get complicated.

Crap, Crap, Crap

FINALLY. MuNu has been havin' issues due to spam and this is the first I've been able to get to my MT to even try and post.

So, of course as soon as I can - I got nothin' to post. Oh, I want to post on Saturday's festivities. But I can't find the damned chord to down load the pictures. Talk about frustrating....

And speaking of chords - I think I may have an "issue". Yesterday while sorting through all the crap in my office, I discover I have 19, nineteen, telephone chords. Of all colors and lengths. Can anyone explain to me WHY any one person needs 19 telephone chords? AND, I don't even use ANY now that I have VoIP. So I bag them up to throw away, and...I can't. What if someone needs one, for cryin' out loud! Heaven knows they are soooo expensive. (/sarcasm)

I also have a boat load of extention chords. Now, come Christmas time I'll be glad - but I'm willing bet, even with all my Christmas stuff I'll only use half of them.

And let's not forget about all the USB chords I found. In the teens. OMG.

So - I'm sorting through every flippin' chord. Throwing things out. Going through files. Throwing more things out. Fun Fun Fun.

Oh - did I mention I have 3 printers? Yeah, one "all in one" printer/copier/fax/scanner thingy, some cheap Lexmark and now a Canon. It's cheaper to buy the damned printer than the replacement ink and I have to have copies of my resume. I only need my all in one - so hopefully I'll be employed soon and can afford the ink. I'll then just sell/give away these other ones.

Damn - this is just silly. I have more office crap than I do candles OR kitchen gadgets!!!!!!!

Just Another Example...

Damn. Sometimes I just feel so, so, helpless. Seriously. While I've lived alone for over 10 years now, there are still many firsts for me.

For instance, this year was the first time I'd ever shoveled snow. Seriously. We didn't have to do it growing up, then I got married - husband and kids if it gone done at all, other wise we just walked through it. Florida? Not much need, gotta tell ya. So - first time shoveling.

Another thing is I have never mowed a yard. Never. Never started a lawn mower, nothing. Growing up I wasn't allowed. I'm not "careful" enough and my folks were very finicky about how the yard looked. Married? Again, husband and boys. In Florida, because of the fire ants and such I had a lawn service when I wasn't in a condo or apartment. Last year? The neighbors were kind enough to do it. This summer should be interesting - to say the least.

Hmmmm

I have my first water softener. I need to put salt in it. I had to ask how, where and how much. How the hell would I know?!? Never even saw one before.

Today - the adventure is a clogged toilet. Oh, I've had clogged toilets before, but very rarely. And every house I've ever lived in has always had a plunger thingy in it. I've never had to buy one. So imagine my surprise when FIRST the toilet clogs, then I cannot locate a plunger. (which is probably good, because if I remember correctly the last time I tried to use one it was, well, interesting) I don't have one. Huh. So I did the only logical thing and called for help. Then, proceeded to feel really stupid and decide I can fix this. I know I can.

And I did. Don't ask me what I did, cause I have no idea. But all I know right now is my toilet is flushing very well, thank you very much.

Now seriously, that's pretty sad when the highlight of your day by noon is the fact that you can now flush your toilet.

Quiet....Very Quiet

If I had to describe my Easter Sunday in one word that would be Quiet. Actually Silence would be even better - but would only cover the bulk of the day.

We had some storms here. Lots of rain, some wind....stormy. I lost my internet connection which also means no phone. None. Nada. And of course since I lose my tv signal in a soft drizzle you can bet I had no television. The funny thing is I didn't even miss the phone until around 5:00pm.

So - I put in some movies, hunkered down with some hot sweet raspberry tea and just relaxed. It was a different kind of Easter for me, but not a bad one. Not at all.

I have some things movin' this week. Will hear about that job I just interviewed for early in the week, and have an interview for another on Friday morning. Could hear from THE company any day now. So the peace and quiet was rather welcome.

BUT - I have a post to put up (complete with pictures) of my lovely day Saturday when I was visited by Contagion, Ktreva, Clone and T1G. Oh yeah, you read that right. PICTURES!! I just gotta find the damned chord to upload those shots.

I hope y'all had a great weekend.

My Virtual Garden

I am really in the mood to plant this year. Maybe it's living back in farm country, I don't know. But I had so many plans for flowers. It just won't be this year. But that doesn't keep me from dreaming. So I thought I'd take you for a walk around the Little Blue Cracker House, and show you what I would plant....

First I'd have to have some Impariens on the front porch. Colorful and easy to maintain. They just add so much color.

I'd love to have a Morning Glory on a trellis outside the back door. We had those climbing the shed out by the garden when I was growing up and I just loved them. So strong, yet so delicate.

Of course I'd have to plant tulips. My favorite are purple, but I'd plant every color I could find.

I would love to have a lilac bush somewhere. I don't know where I'd plant it, but I'd find a place.

Another flower of my youth is the Lilly of the Valley. I never really appreciated them growing up, they were just ground cover. But looking back - they were so sweet. So beautiful. Yeah, I'd want to plant some of those along the side of the house....

Everyone loves an Iris - and I am no exception. Color, grace. Just breath taking.

Oh, and we can't forget the roses.

Now I know I can't plant any Gardenia's up here - but they are one of my favorite flowering bushes - and since I'm dreamin'.....I'm dreamin' big!

So that's my virtual garden. And if you were here? I'd be serving coffee and homemade pastry outside, so we could enjoy it.

Fashion or Just Plain Gross

Holy Shit.

Lee Ann tells about the latest fashion trend HERE. You really need to read this - even if you're not all into the fashion scene. Unflippinbelievable.

OMG! My skin is still crawling.

But then again, if I had stayed in Florida I could be marketing the "off brand" to some discount stores right now. After all - there is a pretty strong supply down there.

But Yick!

Work it. Work it Baby, Work it.

This post may ramble just a bit - so stick with me. I really do have a point in all this. I promise.

The Little Blue Cracker House is old. Plaster walls and ceilings. It really needs a paint job, and I'll get to that....some day. Meanwhile, I do what I can.

One of the things I dislike most about this house is the fact that it has popcorn ceilings. What a pain in the ass. You can't wipe them down, can't wash them. The only way to "clean" them is to vacuum. And even that isn't 100%.

So yesterday I got a bug to clean. I mean really clean. I tore the living room apart. Washed all my crystal and glass pieces. Cleaned everything I could. Then....I vacuumed the ceiling. When I finished in that room I did the ceilings in the kitchen. It took f.o.r.e.v.e.r.

This morning? My arms feel like someone had pulled them from the sockets. My back feels like someone beat me with a chain. I hurt. HURT I tell you.

But what frustrates the hell out of me is the fact that nothing else hurts. The other day I went for a nice walk. That walk included a shitload of stairs. I had hoped that I would feel some burn in the legs and ass area showing me that I had actually gotten some exercise.

No. Not so much. Oh - I reminded myself of how out of shape my heart and lungs are. Damn.......I couldn't believe how bad my lungs are right now. But the rest of me? Nope.

So I came to the conclusion that I must have been in better shape than I thought. I haven't lost all the muscle tone I worked so hard for all those years. Nope. It just has a layer of fat over it, keeping it from showing in all its glory.

That's got to be it. Right? I mean for pete's sake. It's the only thing that makes sense. Cause I sure hate to think that the only decent workout I'm gonna get is cleaning my flippin' house. If that's the case, I may never see shorts again!!!!!

It *IS* Good Friday

I had to run some errands this morning and came home to a message on the machine.

Seems Stephanie wants to talk to me about an outside sales job in Rockford.

OK. I don't know who Stephanie is, but what the hell. I'll give her a call.

And I do.

For the record - Stephanie is a very nice girl.

Anyway, she minces no words. There's an outside sales job, in Rockford. They want to interview me. Salary, mileage, full benefits. The works. And it's NOT insurance or financial schtuff. (I made sure) It's a real salary - no games.....

Who WOULDN'T want to interview? Pretty sweet deal.

So I'm scheduled for the morning of the 21st.

We'll just have to see.....................

What A Jokester

Well, I can see I'm gonna need to be a bit more careful with my computer from now on.....

Seems I have a jokester hangin' around the house. A real funny guy.

A while ago, T1G had said he'd like to figure out how to change the internet tag for someone's site, as a joke. Wanted it to show the name of their site and a funny little phrase. But neither one of us knew how to do that. Please note the past tense when I use the word KNEW.

So yesterday, he stopped by for a visit and was sitting on the computer just a bloggin' away. Me? I was sitting on the porch reading. It was just too beautiful of a day for me to stay inside. So he pretty well had the run of the office.

Before he left I was thinkin' about that whole tag thingy and told him I was going to have to ask someone how to do that. I'd been meaning to. With a straight face he looks at me and nods. Then says "well, it shouldn't be all that hard to figure out". Then he left.

I head to the office to check emails and see what delightful/insightful thing have happened in the blogsphere while I was away. I noticed a little difference in my "window" when I pulled up my site, but didn't really pay attention. Until suddenly it hits me.

That little shit changed my tag line. Oh, it's still Tammi's World. But with a twist. Tammi's World.....This Is What I'm Gonna Need For You To Do.........

Crack me up. But even worse cause I just mentioned it. AND he kept such a straight face. He completely fooled me.

So yeah - y'all can thank T1G for the "upgrade". And you can bet I'll be putting my mind to a nice little payback. If you have any ideas - let me know. ;-)

Weather. Or Not.

Ok, you know it's pretty dull around here when I resort to "weather blogging". But there you have it. Not a whole lot goin' on in Tammi's World right now.

Anyway - we had a bit of a storm last night. You'd have thought by the way the TV played it up we were facing an F5 tornado combined with a Katrina hurricane. But anyway - they are talkin' about high winds, possible funnels and hail.

Hail? Damn, that might not be so good for me.

I knew I'd have to close my windows. They are the crank out kind and I really wasn't in the mood to chase my windows down the street in a storm if the wind caught them just right. So yeah, I rolled those bad boys in. The rain schtuff? Yeah, well that would just mean no TV for me. No big deal. Hell, a slight wind and I lose my signal here. I got a book. I can entertain myself.

But the hail. Hmmmm. You see Maggie May (my car, in case you forgot) sits outside. Yes....I have a garage. But it's tiny. Teeny tiny. Maggie is kinda wide (like her owner) and it's just a tad close for me to even try. Plus - I'll admit it - I still have boxes in the garage. There was no puttin' Maggie to bed last night.

The neighborhood kids were still out playing when the hail started. Now, they had been talking about golf ball size hail or bigger all evening. This? It sounded more like tiny marbles. I heard the kids start yellin' and head for their homes. Then it started coming down. I sat on the couch by the window listening. Huh. I stepped outside and realized everything would be fine. The whole hail thing only lasted about 2 minutes. Good.

The rest of the evening was spent hunkered down in my bed place, with the radio playing and a book. The sound of the wind and the rain lulling me to sleep.

Not such a bad way to spend an evening. Not at all. I just wish I would have gone out and played in the rain.

I'm Sooo Relieved.....

I was over at On the Patio and saw that my main fears for all my friends in Texas have been relived.

You see, being unemployed, I really don't have any money for bail. And with everyone I know down in Texas, the visions I had of a jail full of drunk bloggers was, well, over whelming. To say the least.

But it looks like it'll all be OK. They've repealed the law regarding being drunk in a public place. That's right kids - drink drink drink. No worries. Just stay in the damned bars and take a cab home.

I know I, for one, will rest much easier.

Real Live Conversation....

......over heard during a phone conversation with Army Wife:

AW to "Collective": What? You think I can get Popsicles, fart and fold clothes all at the same time?

Yes AW, I'm pretty sure you can.

Crack me up........

A Sea Story

Eric tells a story of bein' sea sick that sparked a memory for me.

I'm a big sailor. Oh, not a captain, but I'm a great crew. And I just didn't get sea sick. Didn't matter how bad it got, I was good. Rough seas? No problem. I just love being on the water.

Except for this one time........

We were sailing in a regatta. Now most of the racing we did was in the Sarasota Bay. Small races but lots-o-fun. This one was my first in the Gulf of Mexico. We were sailing north up the coast along Long Boat Key finishing at the very top of the Sarasota Bay. But - it was in the Gulf and that can be tricky at times.

The morning dawned beautifully. A nice brisk breeze was causing the flags at the marina to snap. PERFECT.

There were three of us on the boat that day, and the boat was big enough that we'd be husseling. I have always been a sun worshipper. So - no hat, just my bathing suit and a big shirt to wear at the party afterwards. Stay OUT of the sun? Are you nuts?!?!?!? And it was hot that day. Middle of August. 90 degrees in the morning - not a cloud in the sky. I was PUMPED!!!

So, we make the preparations and everyone is assigned their responsibilities. The Captain is very serious about his racing and this was my first time crewing for him so I was a bit nervous.

We make our way to the starting point out in the Gulf. We're early so we just float around sippin' our drinks and chatting. The other racers begin to arrive. Damn - there's a lot of people in this one. What have I gotten myself into?!?!?!

Five minutes before the start of the race and everyone starts to get ready. The silence floated across the water like smoke. All you heard was the snap of the lines and an occasional grunt as everyone was focused on what was to come.

Finally - it's time. Everyone takes off and it's a beautiful sight. Sails as far as the eye could see. Beautiful against the clear blue sky. Boats flying across the water.

We get about 20 minutes into it and suddenly......nothing. The wind is gone. The boat just stops. Now - it's hot. It's really hot. There is no way to hide from the sun. And we're just sitting there. After about a half hour you start to see the sails coming down around you and hear the motors start up. Folks were giving up. But not our Captain. He started this race, he was gonna finish.

So we sat. And bobbed. And sat. And bobbed. I did mention we were drinking, right? Oh yeah. Alcohol, hot sun, no breeze, bobbing. Not so good, let me tell you.

And there was no jumping into the water. Not allowed. We were still racing, you see. You had to be ready for when the wind picked up again.

That was the longest boat ride of my life. I puked everywhere. I was absolutely miserable. At one point I was checking the main sail and just stood there pleading with the Sailing Gods to just give us a damned break.

I've never been so sick.

Finally the wind picks up and we were able to finish the sail. We saw the sun setting as we passed through the intercoastal to our final destination. That made it all worth while. Well, that and the free food and drinks for being the only boat to finish.

But damn - made me a bit nervous about sailin' the Gulf again. I pretty much stuck to the Bay after that.

I had almost forgotten about that. Thanks Eric........for joggin' that memory. You made me smile.

Too Funny

I gotta think there are a couple people that have been on road trips with me that were wishin' for this at the time!!!!!

Happy Anniversary

Today is a special day. It is the 15th wedding anniversary of Army Wife and her Darling Husband.

Think about that. 15 years. 15 years of laughter, tears, togetherness, seperation, dreams and trials. That's committment.

And she has a wonderful post up. Please - go and wish them a Happy Anniversary with many many more to come.

You know, when I think of these two the first quote that comes to mind is from The Princess Bride.

Westley: Hear this now: I will always come for you.
Buttercup: But how can you be sure?
Westley: This is true love - you think this happens every day?

Here's to true love.

Congratulations you two.

Talked to the Recruiter

I talked with the recruiter this morning.

I told her I thought it went well, and that I'd done a lot of thinking. I can deal with the couple of issues that bothered me. I'd like to move forward.

She said they didn't even wait for me to get out of the parking lot to call her. They REALLY liked me. WooHoo HOWEVER - they were concerned about my concerns.

So I broke one of my rules. I explained to her WHY I had those concerns and that by discussing them with a friend I was able to work through those and come up with an easy way to get past it. She said it all made perfect sense and she was glad I explained.

She was going to call them back and tell them I am interested in moving forward. The next step is talking with some of the guys on the team. I should hear back by tomorrow morning.

No matter what happens there are a couple of good things that came out of this whole experience.

*Both the recruiter and the company told me I had one of the best resumes they had seen. THAT'S important to know.

*I did good in the interview. I needed that after the last one. I thought it went well, but it's good to know what THEY thought.

Overall I'm feelin' pretty good about the whole process so far. And it really was a nice ego stroke yesterday - and we ALL need that every now and again.

Mama Vi

I haven't really blogged much on what's been going on with Mama. She's doing pretty well. Actually, she has picked up a job, and that's good. It's good because it gives her a reason to get up and something else (other than me) for her to focus her attention on.

But - that doesn't mean I'm in the free and clear. Oh no....for instance last night. I had promised to call her when I got back from the interview. So, I did. T1G had dropped by for a visit and I warned him, he might hear a slightly "different" version of the interview in this conversation. I told him I needed to candy coat it. Afterall, I didn't want him to think me a complete liar.

So anyway - I tell her abit about the interview and that I'll push forward if they are interested. I should have stopped there. Really, I should have. As a sales person I have learned that it's important to know when to STOP talking. (and yes, I do know that!) But did I in this instance? Oh no. I say, when she's asking about the guys interviewing me....."They're real nice Mama. They even get my humor."

As soon as I said it I started banging my head against an imaginary wall. If I could have reached through the phone line and stopped those words from reaching her ear I would have. Because I knew where the conversation would go from there.....

Mama: Darlin'. I do wish you'd do something about that potty mouth of yours. It's just so crude and unlady like.

Tammi: Mama, I know. And you've been talking about this to me for years. But I do know when NOT to curse. Honest.

Mama: I don't know where I went so wrong with you girls. I tried to be a good mother..." she's now cryin'. YES, just that fast.

Tammi: Mama. Mama! Honest, some people really think I'm a cool person. Really. And you did good with us. I picked up my bad habits all by myself.

Mama: No, no I've failed as a mother. It's all my fault.

By now, I am jumping up and down and flippin' the bird. T1G (while not cursin' at me just to egg me on) is crackin' up. I'm sure it was quite the sight.

Yes, in the matter of 5 mins Mama went from laughing and proud of her eldest daughter to dispair over the state of her soul. Roller coaster doesn't even BEGIN to describe it.

I'm tellin' you - it's enough to make me almost happy I can't go home for Easter.

But yeah, Mama's doin' just fine. Thought I'd just give you a brief update.

Now you'll need to excuse me for a moment. I need to go wash my mouth out after my phone conversation with Army Wife. ;-)

Blog Fodder

Well, that was certainly interesting.......let me just get that out there first thing.

I'll start by saying it went well. It really did. Oh crap. Let's just start at the beginning, shall we?

Even with my "preparations" I got a late start. I was so damned tired I fell asleep between my post and when I needed to leave. But none the less, I got there in plenty of time. And yes, I did get my make-up on. :-)

I will say that this is the first time I've ever been interviewed in a hotel room with an unmade bed. Yeah, that was a bit disconcerting - to say the least.

But the 2 managers of this division are very nice guys. Seriously. They both have a great sense of humor and it's evident that they believe in what they are doing.

The first thing they said was that I am waaaayyyyy over qualified. They made sure I realized this is "down and dirty" sales. It's hittin' the pavement. Every day. Callin' on small shops. Walkin' in the mud.

I explained that I'm not afraid of work or dirt. I also told them what I loved best about what I do is the people I deal with. I like getting out there.

That's when they tell me about one of the guys I'll be calling on. He's a bounty hunter. Obsessed with cats. He has dozens. Oh yeah - this is allllll about the blog fodder - I'm tellin' you.

We talked for about an hour. Actually they talked. Tryin' to talk me into the job. We talked benefits. OUTSTANDING. We talked money. Not bad. We talked corporate structure, etc. etc. etc.

At the end of the interview they wanted to know how interested I am. I told them very. They will be calling the recruiter in the morning, after I've had a chance to talk with her.

The only thing I think that stands between me and an offer is the fact that they are afriad I'll be bored and leave.

Folks...good money, great hours, working from home AND blog fodder. Yeah - if they offer I'll take it.

So now we wait.............................

Oh and just so you know.....if THE company calls - yeah, I'm still interested. I'm desperate, not stupid.

Ready? Set? GO!

Well, it's about that time. Gonna need to leave in about an hour or so for the interview.

I didn't sleep well last night. Wasn't nervous about this - just not in a "sleepy mood". So I look just lovely. The bags under my eyes are horrific. But there's nothin' I can do. And I don't do so well at the end of the day. I start winding down most days around 4:00.

Lovely. Just lovely.

So I'll wait and put my make-up on til I get there. I"ll have plenty of time, I'll just duck into the ladies room off of the lobby. I should be able to fake it for an hour or so.

Like I said I'm not really nervous. Honestly, I don't expect them to really like me for this position. My strength is not outside sales. I am an account manager. Totally different animal. And they are looking for a seasoned pro. Oh - I think they'll like me. After all, I'm Tammi. (/sarcasm) But there are 6 other people they are looking at today so I'm just being realistic.

I am interested in learning about this industry. It's not one I've ever considered. And truth be told if it weren't for the benefits they offer I wouldn't be talkin' to these folks today. But they've got my curiosity sparked.

So - I've printed out the resumes, gotten the portfolio all pulled together. I have directions, and I've had them reviewed to make sure I'm looking at everything right. I think I'm ready.

Now, as long as I don't forget to take my make-up with me, this could be a fun evening.......

Lovely. Just Lovely

So I'm checkin' my sitemeter this morning. Come on, admit it - we all do that....

Anyway - I see that I have a referal from a sight called P*rnografia. (link not really SFW). Site is by some person called Tamm! Ann. (making changes just to hopefully throw them off the trail)

Anyway - I'm like WTF?!?! So I click over. *Note to self: - if P*rn is in the title of the site, not really some place *I* want to go.

Anyway - Holy Shit!! I couldn't figure out how I got a DIRECT link from the site. So I scroll down.

And then I see it......

A link to this site. And listed under the link is Lee Ann's site, Carmen's site, Quality Weenie's site, Army Wife, Talula, Ktreva - all my blog daughters.

Lovely. What a good Mom I am.......

I wasn't surprised....

I've been reading every where about the whole Cynthia McKinney incident. What a bitch. I seriously hope they throw the book at her.

But then I remembered - I warned y'all about her almost 2 years ago. Here.

Yeah, I'm not surprised at her actions. Not at all.

Trash. That's what she is. Just plain trash.

I Haven't Said It Near Enough

Late night TV in Tammi's World last night was The Military Channel. I finally watched Gunners Palace and then they had a special on the convoy that was ambused in April 2004. The incident where they took the KBR driver Thomas Hamill and Spc Maupin.

It was difficult to watch. Oh, the special was very well done, had me on the edge of my seat. But still - hard to watch.

And it reminded me that I haven't said Thank You lately. I haven't expressed my gratitude for those that serve to protect this country. To preserve our freedom. Those that sacrifice so much. And the families. The families that stay behind and carry on. That wait and worry.

But you know what? Thank you just doesn't seem to be enough. But how do you express it? How do you convey something so deep? I don't know - so I'll do the only thing I can right now.

Thank you. From the very bottom of my heart. Thank you.

Just a Couple Stories

With the house open and the fresh spring air, I've become a bit nostalgic. I sat here last night, unable to sleep, entertaining myself with stories of old.

I was thinking about my first boat ride. I taped it to share with my friend Bam. Because I knew her so well, I had a full-blown conversation with her. The folks around when I was taping thought I had lost my mind. But then they saw the tape she sent back. It was of her watching my tape. The conversation was flawless. I know her so well, I knew what she would say or do in any given situation. And my smart-ass remarks back to her were right on. It's pretty funny to watch. I'm going to need to get a VCR just so I can watch that again.

But anyway, I was thinking of that first boat ride. My first time on the Gulf of Mexico. I remember the absolute joy of flying over the water. The wind in my hair. I could feel the every day pressures slippin' away as we sped south.

I remember sitting on a sand bar, just off of Midnight Pass. Watching the tropical fish swim around my waist. I saw a dolphin, my first up close, just a few feet away from me. I could have reached out and touched him.

But what I remember most about that day was that lack of stress. The feeling of freedom. No one wanted/needed anything from me. All I had to do was sit in the boat or water and drink, talk, laugh - be.......

I need to find something up here that gives me that feeling. That release. I refuse to "hole up" this summer. Nope. Not gonna do it.

Another story that ran through my mind was the time Bam and I went to the east coast to check out the beaches in Palm Beach. I told her I am NOT a fan of the Atlantic beaches - I much prefer the Gulf. But...she was dead set on it and there was no changing her mind. So - off we went......

I lived about 4 hours from Palm Beach at the time. Hadn't been there exactly. I'd been to Miami on business several times, but never Palm or West Palm. So - I actually got a map and plotted out the drive. I decided we'd really treat ourselves so we rented a very sporty red convertible. 4 hours one way in the car, might as well get some sun while we're at it.

The morning dawned beautifully. We get in our bikinis, pack a quick bag so we have something to wear at dinner, and hit the road. We were laughing that it was our version of Thelma and Louise. Oh if we only knew........

So - we get across Alligator Alley no problem. Then I turn north at whatever road it is to get to Palm Beach - and we proceeded to get lost. Oh, did I mention that half way there it started to storm? Not rain. Oh, no. STORM. Yeah, that was hysterical. Neither one of us very mechanical, we couldn't remember how to get the top back up. But anyway.....

We get to West Palm, find the beach and I park. She got out, walked to the edge of the beach, looked at the water for, oh about 2 mins. then got back in the car. "OK. That sucked. Let's go home".

5 hours folks (because I got lost). Five flippin' hours for 2 mins at the beach. I was a little pissed off. To say the least.

So we head home. In my infinite wisdom I decide to take a "more direct route" home. Yeah - we decided to head north and then west. Now, I don't remember the details except that we did see Lake Okeechobee at sunset. Breathe taking. Beautiful. Then.....we got lost. Again.

It was dusk. The road had a detour and I misread the signs. We ended up in a sugar cane field. The actual field. I follow the track and come out on the edge of this little town. Now, it had stopped raining so we had the top down again. As we pull into town, two chickies in bikinis in a hot red convertible, we notice that everyone in town is stopped and staring at us. As we get to the only stoplight we realize they are coming towards the car. And they didn't look all that friendly. Bam starts yellin' "Punch it. Punch it. Get us the hell outta here!!!" So I did. I ran the light and just put that car through its paces. Finally we see a sign for the police station. Did I mention they were CHASING the car? No? Yeah, well, they were. So we go speeding into the parking lot of the police TRAILER and slammed on the breaks. The cops come running out, knowing something was wrong but thinking it was "just a snake in the car". THAT hadn't occurred to us, so now we really start freaking out.

Anyway - we explain why we were scared and the one cop just looks at us and asks if we have a death wish. They were amazed that we even drove through the town. (Like we had a choice.) They then told us we had to leave. NOW. Seems they aren't all that nice to people "like us" in that town. Then they tell us a couple of stories of women that just "disappeared" in that area. So we throw on some clothes and they escorted us, not just out of town, but out of the county. FULL escort. 2 cars ahead and 2 behind. A couple county and a couple state.

It was surreal. We finally found our way home. A 16-hour road trip for 2 mins at the beach.

Yeah - THAT I don't need to do again. But it's a memory that never fails to make me laugh. Damn - we had us a real live adventure. I need to do some more of that too.

That's what I'm missin' today....Freedom and Adventure. Think I'll go about findin' me some.

Hint Hint

Contagion has a post up about some interviews he conducted last week. And....with my interview tomorrow, I thought this might just be a good time to offer up some of my thoughts on the whole process.

I am one of those weird people who actually enjoy interviewing. Seriously. I look at it as an opportunity to learn something, meet people and well, just have a wonderful conversation.

But there are tricks to being a good interviewee. Having been on both sides of the table, I'm lucky. I know a lot of the tricks. I've done what Contagion describes, and double teamed. One of my co-workers and I would go into the interview. I would explain the info I wanted to glean from the interview, let them ask the questions and I would observe. Now, most of the positions I was interviewing for the folks had to deal with the public, so I needed to judge their social skills. Plus - it gave the other interviewer the opportunity to build their interviewing skills and develop into management.

You don't greet everyone in the room with a handshake and eye contact? Yeah - you're done. I don't care how good you are at answering the questions. You never know who is who. Don't burn ANY bridges.

Interviewing is sales. You are selling yourself, your skills, your abilities. You've got one shot to make a first impression. Period. Here are just a few of my tips.

*Like I said, greet everyone in the room with a handshake and eye contact. If they are not introduced, ask. It's ok. It shows confidence.

*Dress appropriately for the position. Tomorrow I'm interviewing with a company that is extremely casual. I'll be wearing a pair of casual dress pants, nice shirt and causual jacket with flats. If I get the interview with THE company? Oh, it's a suit. But not a standard business suit. My position there would include presentations and working with the public. A little "flair" is good. The last interview? Yeah, that was conservative business attire. Dress for the company. And no matter what, make sure you look pulled together. I've had folks show up in little sun dresses, jeans and tee-shirts. Yeah, those applications? I threw them out. You can't be bothered to look decent, I can't be bothered to hire you.

*Come prepared. They will always ask if you have any questions. This isn't just about you. It's the chance to learn about the company/department/industry that you are interviewing for. Make out a list of questions. Ask them what they see as a typical day for that employee. Ask about seasonaility. Is there a slow time, (possible lay-offs) or a very busy time (OT). Ask questions about the company......how long have they been in business, in that area, in that market?

*And on that same vein, do your homework. Research a bit. If it's an internal position - ask people questions about the management, role of the department in the company. If it's a new company - go on line. Read, dig. Then work what you've learned into the conversation.

*Invest in nice resume paper. It looks more polished and when they are thumbing through the stack of resumes the feel is different. It catches their attention. Seriously - it works. Now, the resume itself needs to be well done, but if they don't pull it out of the stack, it doesn't do you any good. Just a little hint.....

Anyway - I guess my point is that it takes a bit of effort to pull off a good interview. And if you're gonna do it, you might as well enjoy the process. And the other important thing is to remember - just because you got the interview doesn't mean you HAVE to take the job. This is you interviewing THEM as well. You want to be happy where you are. You need to be comfortable with their management system, their mission, their way of doing business.

If you don't make that extra effort you might just end up where I am right now. Writing a post to remind yourself of how to get a job.......

I Can't. I just can't....

Army Wife is asking if anyone else out there watches Talk Sex with Sue Johanson.

I will admit that I don't. BUT one of my best friends is addicted. Holy shit. I still remember when she first discovered that show....................

A little background is in order. Carmalita (long story on *that* name) loves things that are different. Seriously. We spent one evening out at a bar where all the retired circus people hang out. She was in heaven. We almost had to drag her out. She is always looking for something odd. Something "fresh".

One night, pretty late, my phone rings. It's Carmalita. She is so excited she can barely form a coherent sentence. All I heard was "old lady", "looks like a nun", "sex", "toys", "Oh My God!!!" I finally get her to at least slow down, take a breath and explain what the hell she's talking about.

That is when she tells me to turn the TV on to Talk Sex. I do. I sat there with my mouth hanging open. There sat this sweet little old lady, dressed like someone's grandma, holding the strangest lookin' thing I'd ever seen. And telling me in dry, factual sentences just how much pleasure it will bring me and how to use it.

WTF?!?!?!?

Then, to make things worse in my book - she took calls. People CALLED in with stories and questions!!!! I could feel my head beginning to spin on my shoulders.

Now, I have to tell you something. I've got a pretty raunchy sense of humor. And my mind dwells in the gutter much of the time. But this? This was way more than I could handle.

I can't watch it. I just can't. I see it on the guide and still a shiver runs down my spin. I must be much more old fashioned than I realized. But somethings are just not made for TV. In my mind, this show is one of them. Holy Shit - it's Grandma showin' me how to do a blow job! Thanks, but I think I got it. I don't need instructions. And toys?!?! She's showing me how to use TOYS????? NOOOOOOOOO. That's just fundimentally WRONG.

But Carmalita? Yeah, she watches pretty regularly. She claims it's like a train wreck.........

This one's easy....

Harvey tagged me with a new kinda meme. On his ANNIVERSARY even!!! (Seriously - Happy Anniversary you two. Your love is an inspiration)

And this meme was actually one that came pretty easy to me.......

I dedicate this one to a couple of folks:

Army Wife: Cause I just know....
Teresa: Who is all about the Starbucs
Laughing Wolf: We are soooo the same with this
And BloodSpite: Yeah, I *know* you get this!!!

Piece-o-cake! (would actually go really great with my coffee this morning!)

;-)

Lucky Lady

It's Sunday and I guess I'm just in a mushy kinda mood today. Huh, imagine that. ME! Mushy.

Anyway - it's been a pretty amazing week. Think about it. I'm alone, in a new town and I've really been spoiled. The neighbors bringing food schtuff, the landlady and the roses. Someone bought my lunch at Fritz's the other day - that was very sweet.

And my friends that aren't close by. Calling. Often. Treating me to conversation and company (of sorts). It's really been great.

And I have to be honest. I'm not the best conversationalist right now. I'm not depressed as in weepy and mopy all the time. I'm just empty. Lethargic is close, but it's a bit more than that. Honest to goodness, if they didn't call me I can say with all certainty I wouldn't call anyone. Not because I don't want to talk (THAT has rarely happened) but because I got nothin'. Nada.

So I'm grateful. To those that are emailing and calling. It means more than I can say. Even if I'm out of it and short, I do appreciate what you are doing. Very much.

I'm a pretty lucky lady. And I know it. Y'all ROCK.

Palm Sunday

Today is Palm Sunday. IMO - the beginning of the most sacred week of the Christian religion.

No matter your beliefs or disbeliefs, if you look simply at the tradition, the meaning of this week is beautiful. It's full of hope and promise and love. It's a week that is based on forgiveness.

I remember my first Easter week in Mexico. Wow. There were parades in the street, everyone in the villages and towns were involved. Same in Costa Rica. They re-enacted the entrance of Christ on Palm Sunday. I'd never seen anything like it - and still haven't.

I watched the peoples faces. This wasn't about chocolate candy or eggs. A new dress or big dinner. This was about hope. Forgiveness. Love. Promise.

That is what I wish for you today. To know the hope of better things. The warmth of unconditional love. And the forgiveness that comes with that love.

How to "Get" Tammi 101

My landlady is the sweetest woman ever!

She is really being great about this whole "unemployement" thing. Patient and kind. Checks on me once a week - just a real darlin'.

Today - my doorbell rings and there she stands.

With a dozen red roses. Beautiful, deep red roses.

It's fresh flower Saturday.

They look so very pretty on my table.

Yeah - I'm not hard to "get" at all.

The BEST Interview Ever!!

...seriously. Basil has the interview with Contagion posted and it is FABULOUS!

Damn Contagion - you did one hell of a job.

I lost count of the number of times I laughed out loud.

Go - read. It's perfect for a Saturday morning. But just prepare yourself. A glimpse inside the mind of THIS blogger is not for the weak at heart!!

Preferences

So I was just standing at the kitchen sink, doin' the dishes as my thoughts just wandered. And I got to thinkin' about preferences and how they change over time. Now somethings are just a part of my make up. They will never change. But others-yeah, it's almost like a matter of survival at times. Adapting what I enjoy to where I am.

What about you? What are some of your preferences? And yes, this is a very weird twist on the old Saturday Questions. Come on. Talk to me!!!

*Barefoot or shoes? BAREFOOT. Hell - I barely wore shoes all this week!!

*Tea - sweet or unsweetened? Sweet Tea. Always sweet tea.

*Clothes - fitted or loose? This is one that's changed for me. I've always worn very fitted clothing. But since moving back up here, I find I'm actually relaxing in the way I dress. Maybe that's to make up for the fact that my lifestyle isn't as loose. Who knows.....

*Fish - fresh water or salt water? Salt Water. Always. Grouper, Mahi, Rock shrimp, scallops (bay). Oh yeah, give me the salt water every time!

*Gravy or plain? I love me some gravy. :-)

*House - spotless or "lived in"? I used to love a spotless house. Hell, when I'd have people over for dinner parties, I'd take off of work to make sure the house was "just so". Now? I got boxes still packed, I got piles of pictures to hang. I got stuff on the kitchen island. My house looks lived in. And I kinda like it. It just looks/feels more like a home.

*Solitude or people? I don't think it would be much of a surprise to hear I need people.

*Beer or alcohol? I am a boozer. I'll drink beer - but I much prefer a nice stiff drink.

*Fiction or nonfiction? Fiction. I need the escape.

*Weather - Hot or cold? I like the heat. As long as I have a cool place to escape to, bring it on.

What about you? I'm just curious........................

Damn - I hope this is true!

Your Theme Song is Back in Black by AC/DC

"Back in black, I hit the sack, I've been too long, I'm glad to be back" Things sometimes get really crazy for you, and sometimes you have to get away from all the chaos. But each time you stage your comeback, it's even better than the last!

H/T Ktreva

Just a Phone Call

Well, I think I'm finally over my caffine overdose. Last nights lack of sleep was not due to restlessness. It was more due to thoughtfulness.

I had a great conversation with one of my closest friends. She called late in the evening and, for just an hour, it was like we were sitting together, on her lanai or at our favorite bar, laughing/crying/talking. We both needed it very much.

We talked about work (or lack there of). We are both in sales and are both really frustrated that we can't seem to find a job that will utilize our specific skills in the areas that we live.

We talked of our love lives (or lack there of). Then we got to laughin' about some of our past escapades. Damn - if you only knew some of the shit we've been through, tryin' to protect each other from the jerks we've dated. HA! I may need to blog some of those stories some time. I'll just have to wait for the statute of limitations to expire on a couple of them.......

The weird thing was how the structure of our converstations have changed. For years we knew everyone in each other's life. Now - not so much. We have to take the time to "introduce" each other to the new people in our lives that have come to mean so much. And that's frustrating. We're both eyeball to eyeball kinda people. We both have pretty damned good judgement when meeting folks. Add to that we're rather protective of each other and its......frustrating. I need to sit with these folks. Hear them talk. See how they interact. The same for her. Yeah, it's frustrating.

But it was good to catch up. And the timing was perfect. Her girls were out, I was just curled up in the Golden Throne and we could focus on the conversation. No interuptions, no deadlines.

After we hung up - neither one of us wanting to go but knowing we had to - I poured myself a drink and thought about how damned lucky I am. And then I fell asleep, dreaming not of murder and revenge but of laughter and good times. I would wake myself up gigglin' over one of those wonderful memories. While not very restful, it did do wonders for my piece of mind.

And as I sit here this morning, planning my day I still have a smile on my face. It's cold this morning (only 28 degrees) but clear and crisp. I have a list of chores to get done and then I think I'll walk down to Fritz's for a sandwich/beer and some conversation. I don't want this mood to end. I feel warm and cozy. I feel loved.

All that from a simple phone call. Kind of amazing isn't it.

Finally - Something....

....sorta.

I sent my weekly email to THE company this morning. Just checking in, wanting to make sure they knew I was still interested.

I just received a response. The first so far.

I sat here with my heart pounding, afraid of what it would say.

Here it is:

Tammi,

We are still reviewing resumes (hard to believe!) because we've gotten a strong response. I haven't set up interviews yet because the manager had a candidate in the works he's deciding on. Thank you for following up!! I'll get back to you with more information next.

In other words, don't call us, we'll call you. But not in a negative way. I don't know WHICH position I'm still in for. BUT at least I know I'm not out of it yet......

More waiting. Damn.

I'm Really NOT a Nice Girl

I mentioned the caffine induced CSIish dreams I had last night.

Talk about F*cked up....

First off, I don't usually dream. I have conversations. Not dreams.

These were flat out dreams. Or more like nightmares, sorta.

I have a friend I've been kinda worried about. And in my strung out haze I dreamed they were in trouble. Serious trouble.

Like murdered kinda trouble.

So - I figure out they are missing and take off to figure out what happened. That part was the same in every version. Oh yeah, it was the same flippin' dream all night, over and over. Same beginning, same end (sorta). It was just the "action" that changed.

Anyway - in one version I figure out what happened and beat the hell out of the murderer. I mean beat the hell out of them. Dead. Just dead.

Another version there are snipers out huntin' the bastard. I'm sitting with the "main dude" and we spot 'em. I say, all cold and hard - make 'em pay. And they do. A shot in the leg, one in the arm. Wing the ear. All the while I am cheering them on.

I won't go in to the other versions. Suffice to say - not a very lady like thought process. Really.

I'm just hoping that these are not deep seeded desires. Damn......therapy is just too damned expensive without benefits!

OD

I'm not sure but I think I tried to poison myself yesterday. Oh, it wasn't intentional, but none the less.....

Let me see if I can explain.

I'm on a budget, so instead of buying my normal coffee beans I'm buying the big ass cans-o-coffee already ground.

When you are making a 12 cup pot, you use 1 scoop of beans for every cup of coffee. Not so when you are using the ground schtuff.

I don't know what I was thinking, but put 12 heaping scoops of ground coffee in to make 12 cups of coffee. Oh, and it's the strong stuff. Yeah, no foolin' around for THIS girl.

I thought it tasted bad, but put that off to the fact that I am a bit of a coffee snob. Told myself to just buck up - it's all only temporary.

I drank the entire pot.

About an hour later my stomach is just rollin'. And rollin'. I felt like crap. All afternoon.

Tryin' to figure out what I did I reviewed my day. That's when it hit me. Basically - I drank 12 large cups of expresso. On an empty stomach.

Kinda explains the very weird CSIish dreams I had last night. And the reason I feel like someone beat the snot out of me this morning.

Can you OD from caffine????

I've *GOT* to start paying more attention.

Gifts

My neighbors are moving. They are very nice people and have really made me feel welcome in this new town in so many ways.

I am sorry to see them go and will really miss them.

Yesterday morning as I was going out to the car She hollered over and asked if I needed any eggs.

HELLO! Unemployed!! So I smiled sweetly and told her I would appreciate them very much.

He made the comment that I'm home so much more - was I working from the house now?

I explained I'd lost my job.

We finished the conversation and I ran my errands.

When I got home She was at the front door 5 mins. later. With a grocery sack. She explained that they are moving cross country and can't take that stuff with them and would I do them the favor of taking it off their hands.

I had tears in my eyes. That bag contained a frozen pizza, french fries, vegetables, butter and a beautiful pot roast. I could barely say Thank You but she knew.....she saw......

About 20 mins later there was another knock on the door. There She stood again. Only this time with a big smile on her face and her arms full.

Of beer.

Seems they figured I needed something to do with my time during the day - might as well drink beer.

Damn - I'm gonna miss those folks.

Al Does It Again

I swear to Pete - Al over at Call Me Al - answers the tough questions.

I just found THIS post explaining the origins of the word Aviator.

So - what do *you* think??????

Blue? Blue?!??!

Your Lucky Underwear is Blue

You are caring and extroverted. You've made relationships your number one focus, and your lucky blue underwear can bring some balance to them. You thrive in one-on-one situations. You are a good listener and a natural born therapist. Sometimes you let the concerns of others become too important in your life, leading to stress and worry. If you want more balance, put on your blue underpants. They'll help you take care of yourself first.

Ok - I'm not *such* a good listener, but the rest of the stuff......kinda right, I'm thinkin'.

But blue? I don't think I even own any blue underwear. But then again, who knows. This, from a woman who couldn't find her bra yesterday!!

H/T Leslie

I'm Learnin'

This is a landmark day, folks.

I took the backway home from Rockford.

On purpose.

And......I didn't get turned around, confused or disoriented one single time.

WooHoo.

Avoidance

I am NOT a go-getter. Not at all. I'm one of the biggest procrastinators I know. If it's uncomfortable, or awkward, I can figure out a way to delay dealing with it.

BUT - I ran a couple of errands yesterday and had a very rude awakening. No more stalling. No more avoidance.

There is something I have to do today that just makes my skin crawl. Literally. My stomach clenches, my right eye starts to hurt. I would do just about anything to avoid this.

But - it's one of those times I have to be a grown up. I have to. It's a matter of survival. But ohhhhhh I would rather do ANYTHING than do this.

What could be so horrible? It's stupid really. No big deal to most people. But for me? It brings back bad memories of worse times. It reminds me that I'm not in the happy place I imagine when I'm hangin' out here in The Little Blue Cracker House.

I have to finish the whole process of filing for unemployment. Now, isn't that just the stupidest thing? Letting something like that bother me so much. And I'm usually the first person to tell you - if you need to, do it. But I'm such a hypocrite. And I've found 1,000,000 reasons for not doing it sooner.

Damn I hate this. I really, really do.

Weather Girl

It's only 7:30 in the morning and I already have my house open. The day is dawning beautifully. It's already 45 degrees outside.

I actually want to work out in the yard. Me. Tammi. I'd like to do a bit of raking, and cleaning of what will eventually be the flower beds. Oh, don't worry. I'm pretty sure the mood will pass by the time I finish my coffee. ;-)

It's just funny. I've never really enjoyed Spring. Not the entire time I lived up here before. That was one thing I loved about Florida. Spring was the month of March, and it was warm, not humid, fresh. (well, fresh since I don't have allergies.) But I'm looking for the daffodils, tulips, lily of the valley. I want to see the flowers start to bloom. I'm ready.

In the fall I went on a "leaf tour". Over by the Mississippi River. It was beautiful. I'm thinking it might be nice to head over there again. With everything starting to turn that dark, lush shade of green (thank GOODNESS for the rain) I have to think it would be just gorgeous. And the fragrance! That musky spring smell. Ohhhh, yeah, I'm thinkin' that might just be a good plan.

I'm going to risk sounding a bit juvenile for a moment. I'm very proud of myself. I know we haven't had the harsh winter that is the norm up here - but for a southern girl, I've done pretty damn well at adapting to all this. I'm trying very hard to find something to enjoy about every season. Summer is easy for me. So is fall. Winter? I think as long as I avoid moving during the heart of it, I'll be ok. I've actually come to enjoy the snow. Spring. Spring will be my biggest challenge. But the way I'm feeling, I may just pull this off.

It's kind of funny how the human spirit has the ability to adapt. You just have to open yourself up for it. Look for something to enjoy, something to smile about. I honestly didn't think I had it in me. I've surprised myself. I'm actually enjoying the different seasons. But that doesn't mean you'll EVER catch me sledding - just so you know.....

Impressionistic

Well, one of the recruiters I'm working with just called to settle the details on next week's job interview.

We've only talked on the phone briefly, but we've really seemed to hit it off.

She deliberately set my appointment up for 5:00 on Tuesday. My first thought? Ohhh, they'll all be so tired, it'll be so rushed.

She wants me to be the last for the impression it leaves. She talked me through her thought process and I really do get it. It makes sense.

Then she said the funniest thing (well, at least I thought so). She said she thinks I probably leave a pretty big impression any way. She got that from our conversation. She was even laughing a bit telling me that she was trying to describe me to her husband last night. Hmmmmmm

Anyway - Me? Leave an impression? Well, yeah. I'm 6'2" and tend to demand eye contact. And heaven help you if I'm trying to be charming. I can promise - love me or hate me, you will remember me.

But I just found it funny that she knew that after only one conversation.

Probably TMI

A sure sign I've been unemployed for waaaayyyyyy too long.........

I can't find my bra.

Not good. Not good at all.

My Collection

I am a bit of an art lover. And I'm kinda persnickety about the art I enjoy and even more so about the pieces I hang in my home.

I don't have a lot. But what I do have I really love.

I'm a big Monet fan. I have a few prints I purchased at the Art Institute in Chicago before I even moved to Florida. I have a few other paintings, but most everything else are plaques or candles. If I can't afford what I like, I just wait. I'm patient that way.....

But I do have a collection of original works that I am very attached to. There are currently 7 pieces in my collection - 3 being fairly recent accusitions. They are priceless. Absolutely priceless.

One is a pencil sketch of a cross that says "Gift from God" that my niece drew when she was 10. Another is a chalk drawing of my favorite beach, by the same artist a couple of years later. The other piece by her is another pencil sketch of an angel from Mama's house.

I have a beautiful color drawing of a girl standing next to a tree (I think it's me, since the girl is taller than the tree) with her shoes untied. The Caption is "I love you Tammi". This artist is my cousin's 6 year old daughter, done a couple of years ago.

My newest additions just tickle me pink. I have a delightful sketch of a face done by Clone (Ktreva & Contagion's munchkin) when he was two. And in the mail a couple of weeks ago I recieve two paintings, both sent to me by Army Wife's Collection. A fish by Dash and a wonderful abstract by The Pink Ninja. These I don't have framed yet, but I will. Oh, you can bet they'll be hangin' on the wall by the end of the week.

It's funny. As much as I enjoy the big art museums with all the Masters' work, nothing gives me as much joy as sitting in my office looking at MY collection.

Like I said....it's priceless.

THAT Was Interesting

**Cross posted from Tammi's Temporary World from yesterday

So I just had a surprise phone interview. Hmmmm

It's here in Northern Illinois, and the territory would include a good chunk of Wisconsin.

It's outside selling.

To men.

Casual - no heels, dresses, entertainment. Just calls.

There is cold calling involved - not my favorite, but not soooooo bad.

The money is decent. Benefits Rock.

I'm going to go ahead and agree to a face to face. It's a totally different industry for me. But I can learn.

Plus - it's something. SOMETHING.

So - we'll see what happens.

But I'm still waiting on THE company to call again. But this - it's not a bad opportunity.

UPDATE 2:15pm: The interview is set for Tuesday afternoon. Damn - there goes movie day. ;-)

JUST KIDDING!!!!

Well, that was quick!!

So I only had to use the old blogspot site for a day.

Thank goodness.

And a special thank you to my very good friends that got me back up and running so quickly and painlessly.

Ahh - it's like slipping on a favorite pair of blue jeans.........

WooHoo!!

Ok - this is just a test.

In case you stumble across this before I am completely "dressed" I'm posting over at Tammi's Temporary World for a bit.

But this is good. This is very good......

Just in case.....

OK - being a planner I've had to pull together a couple of, well, plans in case I can't get everything moved to a new host by Tuesday morning.

So - to be on the safe side - book mark my old blogspot site. If you can't fine Tammisworld.com that's where I'll be.

Oh, you don't remember the url? roadwarriorsurvival.blogspot.com

I'm still hoping to have everything taken care of, but a girl's gotta have a back-up.

Oh - and I'll keep this at the top of the page until Tuesday - just so you don't forget. Hey, you never know what might happen and I'm sure you wouldn't want to miss any of the action just because you forgot. ;-)

I'm Probably Gonna Burn for This

So I'm on the phone with Army Wife when the doorbell rings.

WooHoo!! Company.

Without paying attention, because I was on the phone you know, I answer the door.

There stood two gentlemen in nice suites carrying.....bibles.

Uh Oh.

They introduce themselves and tell me they are missionaries.

I smile and interrupt them to say - Sorry. I'm Mennonite.

And shut the door in their face.

Did I mention I was wearing my infamous "Get You Ass to the Blue Mule Bar" tee-shirt?

Yeah, yeah I was.

Talk about mixed signals........

WHY?!?!?!

I do things sometimes, that just make me wonder aloud....Why? Why do I torture myself like this?!?!

For instance,

Why do I always have to run a sink full of dish water BEFORE I go to the bathroom, even when I'm already doin' the pee pee dance?

And why is it I can never flip past a Simmons Mattress sale on one of the shopping networks? Ever!

I just put myself through another episode of that a few minutes ago. On one of the the million shopping channels now available I saw Simmons on the guide - without any understanding or ability to stop myself I turned to that channel.

And just screamed in frustration!!!!

Folks - we used to have to practice, practice, practice our demonstrations and training classes. We held national competitions, we were judged. Our jobs depended on our ability to do these classes.

Help me understand why the WORST performers, the WORST demonstrators are the ones they choose to have on TV?!?!?!!?

I love the product and *I* wouldn't even buy one from this person.

Boring. No passion. Too technical. No humor.

AARRRRGGGHHHHHHHHH!!!!!

Here I sit unemployed and THIS is what they put out there as the face of the company?!?!?!?!?!!??? I do better than that NOW and I don't even work for them anymore!!!

Ok - deep breath. I may need to just go for a walk or something.

And seriously - no more shopping networks for me. Ever.

"I Heard it on the Radio"

Blackfive just keeps makin' a difference.

He announces today that his "Someone You Should Know" is gonna be a weekly event on Pundit Review Radio.

Very Cool. Very Very Cool.

I've *got* to get me a sound card..........

No Sex Since 1955

A crusty old Sergeant Major found himself at a gala event hosted by a local liberal arts college. There was no shortage of extremely young, idealistic ladies in attendance, one of whom approached the Sergeant Major for conversation.

"Excuse me, Sergeant Major, but you seem to be a very serious man. Is something bothering you?"

"Negative, ma'am. Just serious by nature."

"The young lady looked at his awards and decorations and said, "It looks like you have seen a lot of action."

"Yes, ma'am, a lot of action."

The young lady, tiring of trying to start up a conversation, said, "You know, you should lighten up a little. Relax and enjoy yourself."

The Sergeant Major just stared at her in his serious manner.

Finally the young lady said, "You know, I hope you don't take this the wrong way, but when is the last time you had sex?"

"1955, ma'am."

"Well, there you are. You really need to chill out and quit taking everything so seriously! I mean, no sex since 1955! She took his hand and led him to a private room where she proceeded to "relax" him several times.

Afterwards, panting for breath, she leaned against his bare chest and said, "Wow, you sure didn't forget much since 1955!"

The Sergeant Major, glancing at his watch, said in his matter-of-fact voice, "I hope not, it's only 2130 now."

(Don't ya love miitary time?!)

Taking Stock

Well, it's been a long flippin' month folks. One month of unemployment. YIKES.

And it's funny the changes in your mind set. I miss the little things.

There's no more Fresh Flower Thursday. Every Thursday I would stop and pick up fresh flowers for my living room table. I love flowers - they add color and life to a room. And they just flat out make me smile. Well, not a necessity so we cut 'em out. It sure does make Thursdays less fun. But it's gotta be.

I'm cooking different. Lesser cuts of meat - no big deal, except I am rather picky about that stuff. Hell - raised beef cattle for a while, in another life. I know a good cut of meat when I see one. But, there again, can't be too particular at this juncture. And more processed foods. I prefer fresh veggies, fresh bread, I like to try and buy food in as natural state as possible. But fresh = expensive. So for the first time in a long time I got Mac & Cheese the blue box in my house. Hey - it's hot and it's filling. It works.

I don't go anywhere. I don't want to use the gas. For the first time in ages I've had a tank of gas last almost 2 weeks. Unheard of for me......

But despite all that it's ok. Really. It's kinda like stepping back in time for me. Most of my married life was cutting corners and stretching. I'm actually pretty good at it. I just got soft. I just got lazy. Hell - I just got spoiled.

I'm fully aware that things will never be what they were at one time. The likely hood of having a cleaning lady again is pretty slim. The possibility of last minute trips to Europe - yeah, I'm thinking not. Lobster and steak for dinner on a semi-regular basis........well, I didn't need that cholesterol anyway.

But I appreciate what I had. But even more than that I appreciate the fact that I know how to adapt. Change is not easy for anyone. If you try to tell me different I'll call you a liar. We all get used to our ways. Imagine life without your laptop, or cell phone, or favorite game. Whether you admit it or not, you'd miss it. Oh, you'd adapt, but you'd be a tad bit resentful. It's just human nature.

So - today I'm kinda missin' the old life. Today I'm thinkin' about what was. And that's ok. It's not a sad day, it's not a pity day. It's just inventory. That's all.

I Took The Chance

You can't judge a book by it's cover.

Not everything is as it seems.

You would think, at my age, I would have learned *that* little lesson years ago.

But I got took again.

Damn. And the disappointment is palatable.

I know what I like. Really I do. And my tastes are simple. Substance and sweetness. Not always practical but always good.

So I decided to just go for it. Walk on the wild side. Just Do It.

And now I sit here disappointed. Hell - I'm just flat out mad.

Since when did they start making cherry chip cake donuts with chocolate icing?!?!?! What ever happened to the plain old fashion cake donut???

My day may not recover from this one......

Watch Out World - I'm Catchin' Up

Call me sheltered. Call me boring. I'll be the first person to admit in the last 10 or so years I've missed much of "pop culture". I have. I freely admit it. And, I'm finally starting to do something about it.

Today I watched Office Space. For the first time. Seriously. I'd never seen it before.

I. Laughed. My. Ass. Off.

This movie was a hoot - even if it did have Jennifer Aniston in it. ;-)

I've worked there. I've worked with those people. I've had that boss. Son of a bitch - when they first showed the field-o-cubies..........I could point out mine!!!

Anyway - I just thought I'd share. I get it now. I understand all the references. I get it. Finally.

I'm starting to catch up.

I Am Outta Here!!!

I'm goin' shopping this afternoon with Ktreva and Clone. How flippin' lucky am I?!?!?!?!?!?!

Even after only 3 1/2 hours of sleep I am sittin' here on pins and needles.

Oh, I'm not buyin' anything. Are you nuts?!?!?!?! But I'm spending quality time with a couple of people that I enjoy more than I can tell you.

PLUS - I'm leavin' the house. Seriously, I'll be gone. WooHoo. As much as I love The Little Blue Cracker House....yeah, the walls are startin' to move in a bit. This is a well needed outing.

So I did my hair, sorta. Put on some make-up, sorta and got gussied up, sorta. I'm having a good ole fashioned outing. It was just what the doctor ordered.

Confusion....

WTF?!?!?!?!

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