Tammi's World

Intimidation

Well damnit - I'm still having issues with my ear. Can't hear a thing on the left side. Oh, the pain is pretty well gone, but still.......

Hell, it's so bad right now, if I'm laying on my right side I can't hear the phone on the table right next to the bed if it rings.

Anyway - I'm in my office on the phone with one of my co-workers trying to work through an issue. I get a tad bit aggitated, as I don't understand WHY it's still an issue.

Now, I naturally talk rather loud. Hell, I was a performer and a public speaker for years. It's just the way I talk. Add in that my voice always gets a bit louder the more frustrated I get........

So you can only imagine my embarrassment when my BOSS comes to my office and asks me to keep it down.

I guess I was sorta kinda yelling.

And I'd been doing it all day.

I don't know why the folks sitting around me didn't tell me earlier. I've made a point of tellin' people that I'm having trouble hearing and to PLEASE let me know if I bother them.

But instead of saying anything, or even sending a little email if they didn't want the face to face, they send the boss.

It's not like I make a habit of growling at my co-workers. Or flyin' off the handle for no reason.

I hate it when I find out folks are intimidated by me.

OutFlippinStanding

Hook has posted a letter telling of the heroics of one of his Soldiers. I'm not going to say anything other than, Please - Go Read It.

Speak Up!

I was having a conversation with Mama Vi last evening during my ride home. (She's doing very well, by the way.)

Anyway, I was telling her about the changes made lately in Army Wife's husband's schedule, as well as all the unknowns. I was asking her for prayer - she has the red phone to heaven, don't cha know.

As we were discussing the troop surge and everything surrounding that she blind sides me.

Mama: Well, I saw some Soldiers on the news, that had been over there, and they said we shouldn't be there and need to pull out ASAP.

Tammi: (not knowing exactly what she's refering too) Mama, you can't trust everything you see or hear on the news. They are NOT telling the whole story.

Mama: Well, I heard these boys. I saw them interviewed. I don't know what to think or do anymore. All I can do is pray.

Now folks, Mama Vi is not a dumb lady. She just comes from that generation where, if it's on the news it must be true. She knows much of what has been said and done because of blogs but still - in her mind the news is THE news.

She is a perfect example of who the MSM is targeting. They know they won't convert you or I. They know there are those of us out here, doing all we can to spread the GOOD news, the truth. But there are enough Mama Vi's out there that they won't give up the fight.

And we can't either. I've been very lax lately regarding my blogging. Personal is easy, and I've been so damned busy and/or sick that easy is what I need. But that has to stop now.

We have a responsibility to educate. We have a responsibility to share resources where actual information is given. Now, I don't mix politics and business but I can promise you most everyone where I work knows how I feel about our Military, my President and the security of this country. I don't preach. I don't assult anyone with my opinions. I just don't hide them. Period.

I realize not everyone has that luxury, I realize I'm very lucky to be in the enviornment that I am. But we have to do WHATEVER we can.

The liberals that are hell bent on "getting even" with our President do not CARE at what cost. We can no longer afford to be silent.

Now, I fully realize that most of my readers have the same frame of mind that I do, so basically I'm preachin' to the choir. But I thought it was important to remind you - we can't just keep this conversation between ourselves.

The end result is too damned important.

How do I *DO* that?

I finally got all of my laundry completely caught up. Lugged it all to the LM and got 'er done.

It's all put away. Every suitcase unpacked and everything where it should be.

Well, except for - my black and my white bra camis. And my red bra. And my black bra.

WTF? I know I didn't leave them somewhere across these great United States. I haven't worn them for a while. In fact, I remember when I wore them and it was in Illinois.

I know I didn't leave them at the LM - I don't even remember seeing them when I was sorting the wash.

You know, in Florida I left my shoes where ever I went. Seriously. It's one reason I had so many pairs. I'd wear 'em in, and walk out barefoot.

But this? This is beyond reason right now. How on EARTH did I loose my "delicate" items, for cryin' out loud???

I mean, I barely remember my last date, and that was a disaster so I know I didn't even come CLOSE to misplacing them then. I'm not one to go around just shedding my clothes, so that's not it.......

Mama warned me there'd be times like this - I just figured it'd be in another 20 years or so........

Real Support

Jack Army tells us what REAL support is all about.

Like he said - are you up for it?

WOW

You need to take a moment and click here to read this post by Ocean Guy. I read it once. Then went back and read it again. It's that good. It's that thought provoking.

I don't know how I would answer the question he brings up in the beginning of the post. I just don't know. I've never been faced with something like that, and I pray I never am.

Oh My Gott! I'm a Geek!!!

Just this weekend I was telling Laughing Wolf how I've been rewatching the Star Wars movies. Hell, I've been home pretty much an entire week, and I hate daytime TV. Thank goodness for Movies On Demand.

Anyway, I mentioned how much I like watching series from beginning to end. Back to Back to Back. It's been so long since I've seen the last two (or 2nd & 3rd depending on how you look at it) from the series that I don't even remember how it ends. They are playing I, II, III, IV over and over. Damn it!!! Stop teasing me.

So yesterday morning I was flippin' and was shocked to see......All The Star Wars. Back to back to back.

Well, I had stuff to do, and I have seen the first four just this week so I hunkered down for the last two.

Absolute enjoyment. Damn I forgot how much I enjoy those movies.

But I'm a little concerned. Does this recent obsession with Star Wars mean I've gone over to the Dark Side? Am I a geek now???????

Rambles and a Surprise

Well, it looks like weather blogging again. We didn't get much snow at all. Just slush. Icy slush. Lana and I are going no where today. They've been out plowing and putting salt down since 5:00am, and the road is still coated.....

Now I don't know if it's Karma, kizmet or what, but this morning all of a sudden my Firefox is working. Hasn't worked in about 6 months. Don't care how it happened, just glad to have it back.

On a more serious note - I was watching Sleepless in Seattle this morning. Damn, I just love that movie. Anyway - it hit me. Magic. Love. You can't force it, but when it happens, it's like a force that just over comes us.

Well, I realize I haven't been completely honest with you folks. You see, I recently fell in love. I've felt the magic and it actually moved me to step outside my current "comfort zone".

Now, since I don't want to make anyone uncomfortable with me sharing such a personal side of myself, I'll post a picture of my new love in the extended entry.

It was love at first sight. I "have a thing" for black leather and when you're looking at 75% off pricing, I'd have been stupid for not stepping up to the plate on this one. Afterall, how ofter are we offered the opportunity for true love?

PETA can kiss my ass - this bad boy's the real deal!!!

So It Begins......

Snow, Sleet, Ice.

Damnit - lied to again!! Last Saturday they said it would be 52 today.

Well, let me just tell you, if it's 52 out I'm, well, short.

The roads are icing up. The snow is starting to arrive, and already blowin' like there is no tomorrow.

Can you say Winter Storm Warning?! Lovely.....

They say the worst will hit tonight and tomorrow morning.

I'm hunkered in. When they say 6-10", I'm planning for at least a foot.

Such is winter in the mid-west..........

Saturday Question

On Saturdays 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 we go - do you remember your favorite joke to tell from when you were a kid? We loved to tell jokes, Daddy always encouraged us. And, well, I've always had a bit of a twisted sense of humor, so the reaction when I told THIS joke at the family dinner table was, ummm, mixed.

This little boy had a new puppy. He wanted to talk it for a walk. So his mom went to get the leash and the puppy and realized he really shouldn't go.

"Oh, don't worry Dad. She ran out of gas a couple blocks back, but there's another dog pushin' her home."

I learned this joke at the ripe old age of 9. I told it to anyone that would listen. I had no idea what it was about I just loved the reaction I got when I told it.

My poor Mama.......

So tell me, do you remember your favorite childhood joke?

Simple Pleasures

Well it took all afternoon, but I did it.

I had a very small breakfast this morning and actually ate. For the first time this week.

Then I headed to the laundry mat because I had to. With some nasty weather heading this way I didn't dare wait until Sunday. Plus I wanted soft, clean, sweet smellin' sheets damn it!!!

The biggest pain was getting the laundry back up to The Belfry. Seriously. I got my "no dry" stuff up here and had to take a damned nap. That's just several shades of wrong.

But I finally got the other baskets up here, put the clean sheets and blankey on and am all snuggled in my favorite jammies.

And I found a new favorite thing. A combination of Tide and Downy Simple Pleasures. Vanilla and Lavender. Not over powering, but just......pleasant. It actually smells like the scent I wear daily, a nice added bonus! So I'm really lookin' forward to a nice restful night.

Ahhh Simple Pleasures - what a treat.

Grounded

Well shit.

I drove all the way to work yesterday to be sent right back home and straight back to the doctor. Seems my ear is trying to implode now too.

Lovely

So I'm home. In bed. Heavily medicated and actually starting to feel better. It's not a cold, which I'm actually grateful for. That means this shit won't last for weeks on end.

But meanwhile, things are kinda quiet in Tammi's World. I'm actually going to try and eat today and slip into the laundry mat. After my fever broke again, I'm dreaming of freshly laundred sheets.

It's the little things that make me happy.

A Stark Reminder

I'm sooo grateful for our Freedom.

Egyptian Blogger jailed.

For speaking out against Islam.........

Let The Planning Begin

No excuses folks. We're givin' you plenty of time.

Ogmeet '07 is in the planning stages. It's gonna be a good one.

July 7th. Mark your calendars. You aren't gonna wanna miss this one!!!

More details coming.......

Relapse - Updated

Sick(er). Again.

Seriously, I thought I had this thing kicked. I felt much better Sunday. Hell, who wouldn't after sleeping for almost 48 hours.

Monday? Not bad, but exhausted.

Tuesday? Kicked my ass.

I'm trying to get into a doctor this morning. My phone is ringing off the hook, my head is pounding, my chest feels like it's full of....stuff that shouldn't be there. I keep checking to see if maybe my boobs are growing, cause that's the only explaination I can come up with for this kind of pain and pressure. But alas, it's not that.

I don't want any coffee (gasp), smoking holds no temptation for me. I'm not hungry, I just want juice. Lots and lots of OJ. And sleep. I REALLY want some sleep.

Shit - if this turns into something worse I'm really gonna be pissed off......

UPDATE: Well worse is about right. Med's have been prescribed with the promise that if "I'm a very good girl, I'll feel better soon". I'm flippin' doomed........

Wazza Madda?!?!?!

I am Italian. You know when it's really evident? When I'm angry. '

I. Have. A. Temper.

And that is the understatment of the century.

Now, normally I will recognize when I'm at the "Red" level of anger and step back whenever possible. I know what my knee jerk reactions are like, and folks - it ain't pretty.

I can tear you to shreds in very few words. I don't need to yell. I don't even need to curse. Oh I can. But I don't need to.

It took most of my adult life to learn to do the whole step away thing. It's one reason I like email and phone. If I'm in a face to face and that happens....well, the odds of me withholding diminish greatly.

My control has been mistaken for weakness, and I'm actually alright with that. You want to think I'm weak? Go right ahead. hehehehehe

Now, please know, even stepping back, I'll blow. The party I'm angry at just won't ever know. And when I do have my say, it'll still be blunter than most would find "pleasant". But then again, if I'm angry I really don't give a rats ass how pleasant it is for you. Seriously. You know the sayin'....If Tammi ain't happy NOBODY'S happy....or something to that effect.

So what brings this up? Nothing really. Well, I'm not feeling well at all and something happened that, well, I snapped. Seriously, it was ugly.

And after I snapped I went outside and had a little pace.

No one has come within 10' of my office since then.

And it got me to thinking - maybe y'all have some tricks I could "borrow" to reduce the "Snap" factor even more. Got any suggestions?

There Should Be More of This

Thanks to Jimbo for posting this.

Go watch. You need to see this today.

The Saga Continues

A while back I posted about a certain someone and their slanted view of height. And so you know, I still haven't decided on what exactly his punishment should be.

Well, while at this last show, it was just my boss and I. For 5 days. That's a lot of conversation to make. I was scrappin' the bottom of the barrel.

Since I don't talk about my blog or blogging to anyone at work, if I read something funny or really interesting I just say I had a conversation. So - I'm tellin' my boss about this conversation I had where my friend refered to Anna Nicole as "Monsterously Tall".

Boss - Wait. You're taller than she was.

Tammi - Exactly. THAT'S my point.

And I continue to relay what was said.

BTW - he thinks my friends are A) Funny as hell B) Brave beyond words

But here's the best part. When he introduces me to people now? Yeah, I'm "Tammi, his Monsterously Tall Sales Manager".

Lovely.....

Contagion? The price just went up Dude........

Calgon!!

Tammi and the Terrorist

Another story from my week in NYC. This particular show was huge international news. And we had a lot of international visitors stop by our booth. Costa Rica, Argentina, Israel, the list goes on and on. It was rather fascinating.

So on Tuesday, one of our busiest days, we had our most interesting visitor. He stood just inside the booth and did everything he could to ignore me. He was focused on talking with my boss. Well, boss was busy, so it was me or nothin'.

I introduced myself and gave him my card. He did the same. Hmmmm he was from one of the "middle eastern" countries that raises red flags right now.

Oh, and he was short. I need to mention that because it comes into play later.

Anyway - we start discussing business. He doesn't want to make eye contact. THAT makes me kinda edgy(er).

Finally he says he is only interested in our liscensed goods. Well, I can't sell them to him unless he has the liscense to sell them in his country.

He basically poo-pooed that whole idea.

Really....

He says if we're not able to do that then we can sell to his distributor in California and THEY'LL ship to him. That way we're in the clear.

Oh no no no no no. That has every shade of illegal written all over it.

By now I realize this guy is slime. Shitty slime. AND he's pissed me off. So - as my boss said - I grew. I stood up straighter and leaned forward, invading his "personal space". It pissed him off. He'd step back, I'd step forward. We continued this strange dance around the booth. He tryin' to convince me of my "stupidity" and me saying No. Over. And Over. And Over.

Finally he started to stammer and just pointed at my boss, sayin' "I talk to Man".

"Ok. You go ahead and Talk To Man." I called my boss over and then refused to budge.

It was pissing the guy off big time. I did mention "Middle Eastern Country" right? Yeah.....

Boss man told him exactly what I did. He tried the same dance and finally threw his hands in the air and stormed off.

My boss was crackin' up as the guy walked away.

"I can't believe you let that SOB walk outta here with his nuts attached."

"I didn't know if he was a suicide bomber or not. Didn't want to tempt fate."

"Great. My National Sales Manager manages to piss off a buyer from a terrorist country. THAT was NOT a part of the goals for this year..."

Personally - I'm rather proud of myself. I stayed professional but still made my point. Do NOT come into my home and think you can make me play by YOUR rules. Business is business, and legal is legal. You can't do it right, don't do it at all. And DON'T go coppin' some attitude just because you don't get your way.

But one thing I do have to grin about is the take away he's going to have after having to do business with Me. Stupid American Women my ass........

Sunday in a Small Town

Sunday morning in THE valley. Ohhh what a treat.

I'm still not 100% and just couldn't find the energy to cook so I headed to the diner in town.

As I sat there, watching people come and go, enjoying their meals and the company they shared, it was like stepping back in time. The music today was "classic country" and the diner....well, it's kind of a blast from the past. Nothing fancy, just comfortable.

I've gotten to know the waitresses here over the past year and some. It's nice to be recognized when I walk in. They know what table I'll want, they know I don't need a menu. It's either french toast or my eggs/crunchy taters and burnt english muffin. I don't vary much - I like what I like.

I don't know if it's because I've been gone so much lately or if it's just where I'm still sorta weak from being sick, but today everything just seemed so, so, so sweet.

I watched a couple of older ladies, all dressed up from church, come in for lunch. A family full of children and laughter wandered in for a late breakfast. As the time got closer to noon, more and more folks wandered in. Each smiling, no one in a hurry.

I know I've said it time and time again, but I do love this little town I've landed in. There isn't much here, and that's part of it's charm. No one bothers you, but ohhhh you can bet they have a view on who you are and what you do. I've heard some theories out there about me and I have to chuckle. If only my life were that exotic. :-)

Ahhh Sunday in THE valley. It just don't get much better than this.

Stopped

Thank Goodness SOMEONE has some sense.

I see this headline in the news; GOP blocks Iraq resolution in Senate .

The Dems were short 4 votes. Oh, but as expected, they are still claiming victory.

"Democrats claimed victory anyway. "A majority of the United States Senate is against the escalation in Iraq," said Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada. "As for the Republicans who chose once again to block further debate and protect President Bush, the American people now know they support the escalation" in troops." (emphasis mine)

Well, they got that last part right. The American People do KNOW. They know they support the troops. They know they understand.

Sadly, the damage is done. The message has been sent. To our military, and to our enemies.

But don't you find it kind of ironic the Dems are claiming "Victory"? I have to wonder if they even understand the true meaning of the word.

A Tropical Heat Wave

WooHoo!!! I just checked the weather and man is this gonna be a good week.

Tomorrow? High of 39!! Tuesday drops again, but then? Then it just starts climbing. By Saturday they are calling for a high of 52. 52 degrees!!

I know, I know. It's only a tease. But I don't care. I'll take a week of those kinds of temperatures in February anytime I can get 'em anymore.

*I* thought it was funny

Ok - the sign across from our booth was from a Greek toy company.

Their line of toys?

BILDO.

Now tell me, is it just me or is that just funnier than shit? I mean, seriously. A toy company, named Bildo.

Hehehehe. Had me gigglin' all week long.......

Better

OK. I think it's time. I can actually see, which is a huge improvement over yesterday. AND I can stand up. THAT really makes me happy.

So - I'm headin' out. I don't think I'll actually get the steps and deck shoveled today. That would be pushing it a bit much. But I am heading to the diner for a bit of breakfast and then to the grocery store. I know, livin' on the wild side, but what can I say? That's life in THE valley.

Seems surreal - just last week I was speeding around NYC in a limo. Huh.

Saturday Question

On Saturdays 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 - tell me about your favorite soup. It's cold up here, and I don't know about y'all but to me there's nothin' better than a pot-o-somethin' to warm you up from the inside.

Now, I do love soup. Homemade soup. I make a mean chicken noodle, and my potato isn't bad at all. I'm a big fan of chicken tortilla, and beef noodle can hit the spot as well. But deep down I'm a stew girl myself. Beef stew. A big pot of that with some corn bread or biscuits and DAMN you got some good eattin' there.

What about you? What's you're favorite?

Just Stuff

I'm really not paying attention to the world around me lately. Damn, just seems like work has consumed me these past few weeks.

For example, I had no idea it was national news how screwed up it was tryin' to get out of NYC yesterday. I was just curled up on a couple of seats tryin' to sleep and get through the day. I almost gave up my seat, I felt that bad. But then I heard that most people were not getting out until Sunday and that really wasn't an option. So I sucked it up and waited.

By the time we landed in Chicago I was done. The idea of schlepin' all my crap on the train and out to extended parking was almost overwhelming. Seriously, if the hotel connected to the airport was anything OTHER than a Hilton I'd be there right now. But I'm NOT givin' them any of my money so, again, I sucked it up and headed out.

Cold. Oh my goodness Cold. But I actually found Lana in the dark and she started right up. I cannot express to you my delight over that.

Stopped at my favorite truck stop for some wonderful chicken soup and tea. Not quite as good as homemade served in bed, but close. Damned close.

We got us some snow here at home. I couldn't even see my steps. Brought in only what I needed and will get the rest later. Ahhh the joys of apartment living.

But it was a good week. I'd actually go so far as to say that even feeling like I do right now it was all worth it. Lots of great stuff work wise, and I had the rare opportunity to get out with some great friends. I'll go so far as to sayin' it was one of the best weeks I've had in recent memory.

So - that's all. That's all I got. I'm heavily medicated and sleepy. I'm wondering if medicated blogging could be as interesting as drunk blogging. We may be finding out later this afternoon.

Meanwhile, y'all have a great Friday.

Home

I'm home. It's 10:00pm, and I did stop for a nice big bowl of chicken soup on the way. I'm all snuggled in my warm jammies, getting ready to hit my bedplace.

I feel like I've been hit by a mack truck. I'm thinkin' it's all those damned hands I shook and people I talked to. Literally hundreds this past week.

Tomorrow I'm taking a sick day. I have 2 more pretty big trips coming up in the next 3 weeks so I need to make sure I'm 100%.

But right now I'm home. I'm goin' to bed to dream of tall buildings, cabs and toys.........

I Talk Too Much

I got to hang out with Michele! I got to hang out with Michele!!!

Oh, I had such a wonderful evening. A fabulous dinner, with an incredible dinner companion. After I managed to talk my way through the entire meal (I hate when I do that) we headed out for a little suprise.

Michele not only gave me the gift of her time and conversation, she took me to the Empire State Building. It ROCKED!! There is nothing like seeing The City through the eyes of someone who loves it as much as Michele does.

I had such a great time. But yet again, when I got back to the hotel I realized I never shut up the entire evening. I talk WAY too much.

I want to tell you more, and I will. However, flights got canceled and pushed out, I woke up with a fever and that stuffy scratchy crap, and I need to find a way home.

But I wanted to make sure and say Thank you Michele. Thank you so much.

Happy Valentines'!!!

Valentines' Day. In New York City.

Wow.

I have to be honest, I've never been a fan of this particular day. But this year, seems different. No, I don't have a date tonite. Well, unless you count Michele - but I'm thinkin' there won't be much deep gazing or hand holding going on. Not really our Style. Nothin' Personal Michele - you know I love ya, but well.....you know.....

No, I think because of all the stories that involve both Valentines' Day and NYC, I'm just....caught up. Hell, I'm soooo hoping to see if they really do "light up" the Empire State Building tonite.

I just looked out my hotel room window. I'm 30 stories up in Midtown Manhattan. Winter looks a little different up here. I've seen Winter's Wrath before. This? This looks more like a dance. Must be the influence of the day. I mean, who could be nasty on Love's Holiday? Well, other than that whole VD Massacure thing in Chicago a few years back....

Anyway, today I wish you a Happy Valentine's Day. No matter what, when you close your eyes at the end of the day KNOW you are loved - THAT is my wish for you.

But I have to say, I saw THIS poster and thought - ahhhh that's more like my life! And between you and me? Yeah, I'm alright with that.

Happy Valentines' Day!!!

Strange Neighborhood

Let me tell you about my "neighbors" at the show.

One guy is just flat out a nut case. I'd love to explain it all to you, but I'd have to take a picture, and that's not allowed. But trust me - I've seen weird, and this one takes the case. It's the absent minded professor meets Steve Urkle, and then multiply by oh, say 30. Yeah.

On the other side are puppets. Very cute puppets. And they have them on an automated display, so they dance.

Well, if they're gonna dance, they have to have music.

Sunday - all day, over and over again was the damned Chicken Dance song. It is one of the songs I hate most in life, and whenever I hear it I end up with the worst case of earworm.......

Sigh.

Monday, they added a song. WooHoo!! Something to break up that loop a bit. Well, except that it is another really REALLY bad earworm song. "It's a Small World". So you have The Chicken Dance, followed by It's A Small World. Over and over and over. For 9 straight hours.

Sigh.

Today they added a song. WooHoo!!!!! Damnit. It's 3 Blind Mice. So NOW I've got The Chicken Dance, It's a Small World and 3 Flippin' Blind Mice.

I'm almost afraid of what they'll have tomorrow.......

Day Two

Ok - so I told you about the wild goose chase on Saturday. Sunday was the first day of the show. Busy.

Oh dear Gott was it busy. I talked. I smiled. I nodded. I took notes. I talked some more. Damn.

The show opened with a band. Of oversized food. I was standing in line for coffee and was grabbed from behind. As I turned to see WTF was going on I realized what ever had me, had more than 2 hands. And was big. I kept looking up, and up and up. 9'. It was a 9' tall corn stalk. Dancing. With his "leaves" around me. Lucky for him, the ones that actually had "substance" were not in any places they shouldn't be. But A Food Band? Dancing Corn?

Anyway.......

6:00 could not get there soon enough. Because you see, I was meeting up with Jimbo and his family. I found out late in the day that Mrs. Parkway was going to join us and THAT was the topper. It felt like every minute between 5 & 6 lasted an hour.

Lucky for me, traffic back to my hotel wasn't sooooo bad. I drop my laptop and head to the bar. WooHoo!! Blogmeet!!

As soon as I walked in I saw the lovely TJ. And she really is. A smile so sweet......

I meet Mr. Surly (who is very charming btw, and then end up on the receiving end of a big hug from Mr. Rest Stop himself, the infamous Jimbo. He introduces me to his lovely wife and I knew right away, this was gonna be a GREAT evening.

We have a few drinks at the bar, realizing it's not really a "dinner" place. I'm telling stories from the California show, and start talking about how great the In & Out Burgers are. THAT got the attention of our bartender. Seems she's FROM California and could not stop talking about how GREAT those burgers really are.

I thought it was funny. Here I sat in NYC, and run into someone from California who understood exactly how great that cheap fast food dinner really was.

So the time comes that we must depart. We were starving. We walk around the corner to find a bistro that would serve good food and allow us to continue our conversations.

As we studied the menu of the first place, a guy standing outside to smoke tells us we should go across the street to Mimi's Italian place. Great food. Great atmosphere. And killer entertainment.

Ok - works for us. So off we go.

We get settled in over by the piano and everything is looking good. The service was wonderful. We order our food and it's time for the entertainment.

Out comes a guy, and I swear I know him. He's the dude from the checkout line at my customer's store from the night before!!! Folks, we were 40 minutes outside the city. What are the chances???

And he ROCKED. Once I established that he was who I thought he was, and he actually remembered me, we jammed. Jimbo sang a couple of songs - and he flat out SINGS. He and his beautiful bride did a bit of dancing. TJ, Mr. Surly and I just enjoyed the show. IT WAS GREAT. Laughing, joking, drinking, eating. DAMN - if every night were like that in NYC I'd never leave.

Unfortunetly all too soon it was time to call it a night. Our new best friend didn't want us to go, but we promised to come back. And I will. Next time I'm in town that is on my list.

Jimbo, thank you all soooo much for driving all that way to have dinner. It was fantastic.

Day One....

Ohhh I have so much to tell you and so very little time. I'm actually keeping a notebook so I don't forget this crap, it's that good. But it's been early mornings, long LONG days and late nights. This is the first I've even turned on the laptop. I was thrilled to hear Michele was keepin' y'all in the loop. Keep checking over there, cause you neverr know if I'll get a chance to post or not......

And I should be running out the door in the next little bit, but I woke up early JUST to do this. So let's just hope I do this week so far justice.

Saturday morning flight? Fantastic!! Seriously. Roomy, smooth, on time. Landed in NYC and my boss and I grabbed a cab to the hotel, checked in dropped the luggage and met up in the lobby. Gotta get that damn booth set up.

Get to Javitz and...wait, where are the OTHER boxes? The boxes from California? Long story short? Yeah, California shipping folks said they are here. NYC receiving folks say no way in hell. I called, I begged, I badgered. No good. We need samples and we need 'em now.

Learned that one of our larger customers has a store near by. We hire a car (ouch!) which turns out to be a vintage 1972 limo. Should be a 45 min. drive tops. We got 2 1/2 hours before closing. Should be good.

Or not. Guys is lost. His girlfriend is lost. Did I mention he brought her along? Yeah, he did. Anyway - 1 hour. 2 hours. I finally call the store and through yelling and sign language I get the driver to the store. Run in and powershop. RUNNING through the store, throwing shit in the cart. We had 10 minutes.

As we're checking out, we find the kid that gave me directions in. My boss took down his information and sent it to corporate for being so GREAT! In line behind us was a very interesting gentleman. Yeah, that's the best way to put it. He made a real impression on me. We chatted breifly, and then we headed to the limo.

Which was empty. Oh wait...the driver is buying a pizza. It seems his girlfriend is hungry. Now keep in mind, we hadn't eatten all day and it's now 9:00pm. Boss gets a bit testy about now, I don't know what he said inside that resturant but it worked. The driver came running out.

Finally around 10:30 we get back to the hotel. I haul the samples to my room and we collapse. That alarm was gonna be killer at 5:00 the next morning....

And it was. But, it's also the way it goes. We needed to be at Javitz by 8:00 to finish setting up.

As we walk down the aisle I see 5 boxes sitting on my table in the booth with one of the guys who had been helping me standing there with a smile on his face.

He was there extra early that morning SEARCHING for my stuff. He found it on a loading dock far far away.

My boss was just standing there amazed. "I can't believe they found them".

Tammi. "Of course they found them. Mama Vi prayed. I never had a doubt......"

That was just day one......wait til you hear about my dinner with Jimbo, the dancing cornstalk, and how small this world really is.....

It's Dark Out

**Warning - Scarlett O'Hara moment below**

OK, so they moved our flight out a bit. woohoo. So little "bit" that it barely makes a difference.

I still need to be on the road in, oh, five minutes.

So - I'm outta here folks. Wingin' my way to The Big Apple. I'm gonna see Jimbo and his beautiful daughter for dinner tomorrow. I'm gonna see blog-sis Michele. Damn, I hope she's feeling better soon! And I'm gonna pretty much work like a dog.

That workin' part? Yeah, I'm really ok with that. I'm just a little cranky on 1 1/2 cups of coffee.

But what I will say is this: (shaking fist at sky) As God Is My Witness I, This Is My Last Pre-Dawn Saturday Flight!!! Well at least for another 6 months.

Later y'all. It's show time!!!

All Done. Bye Bye. Don't let the door hit ya in the ......

Well, things have been a bit too hectic to leave the office to walk at lunch, but I'm still trying to give my self a little break here and there. So yesterday I was getting ready to check a few blogs when I noticed on MSN.com (my home page at work) that Poor Britney Spears got dumped.

Hell, I had no idea she was even "involved" with anyone (other than herself). But what caught my attention is that it happened via phone.

Huh. Well, I guess when you tell your husband you are divorcing him via text message you shouldn't be too surprised. Karma and all, ya know.

There is word out that Britney had a bit too much drama in her life, it was too much for the guy. Britney? Drama? Huh. Whodda thunk.

Anyway - I'll be honest enough to admit I chuckled. The irony was not lost on me, not one bit.

Since I'm not bein' so nice about this whole thing -poor poor Britney - I thought I'd give her a little somethin' somethin'. You know, from a Sister Who Knows.....

So here's what is considered one of the top 10 "You Dumped Me?" songs ever in life. I figured, given the fact that she's considered a musician (of sorts), music would help to sooth her broken heart. I present Ugly Kid Joe, for your pouting pleasure....

Might be a sign...

I think I might just be a little bit stressed.

I thought I was packed for my flight tomorrow morning. Suitcase is closed and sittin' in the living room. All I have left is to gather my make-up and hair stuff and I'm outta here.

So I thought.

As I was leaving the house this morning I noticed something.

My dry cleaning, still in the bag, hanging on the coat rack.

So if my dry cleaning is on the coat rack, what exactly did I pack?

Take That Back!!!

T1G has a post up about the passing of Anna Nicole Smith.

I'm not going to say anything on THAT subject, simply because I was taught if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all.

BUT, I still want you to click over and be SURE and read the comments in that post. Seriously.

Now, first - Contagion is a FRIEND of mine. I've spent time with he and his family - hell, there is even a picture (that I WON'T link to) of the two of us standing together.

He is fully aware that I am NOT height challeneged.

So imagine the pain his comment caused. MONSTEROUSLY tall? MONSTEROUSLY?!?!?!

I had to call him on it. Literally. One, because I know how much he hates to talk on the phone, so that's always fun. But also, I wanted to give him the chance to explain himself.

He tried. He really did.

At first he thought Smith was 6'6" or something. Ok, THAT'S tall. But MONSTEROUSLY? I'm 6'5" in my heels (now that we've got the whole OH GOD I'M SHRINKING thing figured out). MONSTEROUSLY?

Then he stammers a bit and say's maybe it was 6'2". I'm 6'2" in my barefeet. Everyday. All Day Long.

MONSTEROUSLY tall?

So he looked it all up. Seems she was 5'11". That's when he said maybe he was thinking of someone else.

Yeah. Right.

I'm crushed. I never knew the TRUE thoughts of my friend. I never realized he thought I was a "freak of nature". Dude. I'm gonna need restitution on this.

You guys have any suggestions on that? What could Contagion POSSIBLY do to make up for the intense mental anguish this has caused me?

Just Stupid in My Book

I saw this headline this morning; Branson offers $25m for climate answer. So I clicked on over.

Seems Sir Branson, of Virgin Records fame, is offering a $25m reward to any scientist(s) that can figure out a way to save the earth from global warming.

Really? Huh.

$25 Million Dollars.

To figure out a way to (and I quote)" "extract greenhouse gases from the atmosphere."

$25 Million Dollars.

That would feed a lot of people.

That would go a long way in disease research.

That would build a lot of houses.

And those are just a few things that came to mind. We all know Branson is of the liberal persuasion, so I won't push MY personal beliefs on him, even though that would provide a lot of body armour and weapons for our military. It would be a nice boost in benefits for our military families. But I'll respect his right NOT to go that route.

But that doesn't mean I won't mention that there are many more viable ways to use that money.

I may be way wrong in this thought process, but it seems to me it's just a big ole publicity stunt. Like I said, I might be wrong, but I don't think so.

With all the problems and issues we face in society now, THIS is just a bit, oh let's just say STUPID.

But then again, that's just MY opinion.

She's Right!

LeeAnn tells it like it is.

Beautifully........

I'm Just Sayin'.....

It's only 10:30am.

How's my day going?

Let me answer that with a question of my own.

Does anyone need a janitor? Cause right now, I'd rather be cleanin' toilets.

Email Joke

I got this via email and thought I'd share.

THE CHICKEN FARMER

A woman walks into an accountant's office and tells him that she needs to file her taxes. The accountant says, "Before we begin, I'll need to ask you
a few questions." He gets her name, address, social security number, etc.
and then asks, "what is your occupation?"

"I'm a whore," she says.

The accountant is somewhat taken back and says, "No, No, No, that won't
work. Let's try to rephrase that"

The woman says, "OK, I'm a high-end call girl".

"No, that still won't work. Try again."

They both think for a minute; then the woman says, "I'm an elite chicken farmer."

The accountant asks, "What does chicken farming have to do with being a
prostitute?"

"Well, I raised a thousand little peckers last year."

"Chicken Farmer it is."

I spend a large portion of my day "spinning", but this? This beats anything I've ever come up with!

Like A Dog With A Bone

The other night while clicking through the channels I happened upon "The Story of Tupperware". Now you have to realize that is something near and dear to my heart. No, not Tupperware itself, but the story.

You see, Tupperware sales was as we know it was started by a woman. Brownie Wise, by my standards, is a genius. She is in a large way directly responsible for what I do today.

Tupperware was in it's hay day back when Mama Vi was beginning her sales career. Both were based on a new idea, "home parties", where you brought the product to the women, not the other way around. AND it was a social event. It was a great idea, evident as it is still around today.

And let me tell you folks, Mama could work a living room. Plain and simple.

Anyway, I was telling her about this show the other day, pretty excited because I know, in a way, it's a part of her history.

Now, years ago I was seriously thinking of selling Party Lite. Perfect for me. Candles, prettys, home based, and I just love this stuff. Easy sale for me. Well, due to the fact that with the jobs I carry during the day I couldn't commit to being in town for bookings, I had to step away.

Sometimes I regret that decision. I regret it because I know I could be making at least as much as I do now and not killing myself with travel and office politics.

ANYWAY - Mama and I were kickin' that whole topic around when I told her, in different circumstances I'd choose the Party Lite in a heartbeat. But I can't give up a steady paycheck without any back-up.

That was when it happened. She pounced.

"Well, I told you if you'd just get married everything would be alright. I still have that list of prospects I made for you. Do you want me to email it?"

Damn. I told you she wouldn't forget.

Respect.

I have to admit, I had never heard of The Patriot Guard until I started blogging. But now? Now I'm one of their biggest fans.

Head on over to The Gun Line and read Sergeant B's account of The Patriot Guard's sad, but ohhh so important recent mission. Paying respect to a fallen Hero and his family.

Please take the time to read it. It's a beautiful post.

It Runs In The Family

Doing good seems to run in Moogie's family.

Her daughter is jumping rope to raise money for the American Heart Association.

Pop on over and show some support.

You've got one heck of a girl there, Moogie. You should be very proud.

I'm Going. Are You?

The MilBlog Conference 2007 is coming together.

Here is the site they have set up. The list of panelists is pretty exciting. Some of my favorite milbloggers are going to be there. I'd list them out, but just head over and see for yourself.

It's being held in Washington DC May 5.

Now I'm sure there are those out there wondering why me, a personal blogger, is so intent on attending this event. Let me tell you - I think it's important. I think it's one of the most important things I will be involved with.

As a civilian there isn't much I can do other than show my support. But I think we all know how important that really is. I can read as much as possible and spread the word. That is my duty. We all have a role in this WoT. I firmly believe this is mine.

I'm looking forward to meeting so many that I have read for years. I'm looking forward to the discussions. I'm looking forward to hearing, from those who are on the front lines, both literally and via the blogs, what ELSE I can do.

So, keep an eye on the 2007 MilBlog Conference Blog. Information will be forthcoming. My flight is booked. I'll be there. Like I said, I think it's THAT important.

Too Close To Home

Michele, over at Letters from NYC nails this post. And the timing is amazing.

Go over and read it. Watch the video.

I just know I'm so glad not to be in the city during Fashion Week. While I didn't work that particular circuit, it's still too many memories. Good and bad.

And I'm so glad I've finally reached the point where I don't live the lie anymore.

Easy Bake - Easy Burn

Hasbro is recalling the Easy Bake Ovens.

"About 985,000 Easy-Bake Ovens sold since last May have been recalled because children can get their hands or fingers caught in the oven’s opening, which poses an entrapment or burn hazard."

"The recalled plastic ovens are purple and pink. They resemble a kitchen stove with four burners on top and a front-loading oven. “Easy Bake” is printed on the front of the electric toy, while “Hasbro” and model number 65805 are stamped into the plastic on the back. The recall does not include Easy-Bake Ovens sold before May 2006. Toys “R” Us, Wal-Mart, Target, KB Toys and other retailers nationwide sold the toy from May 2006 through February 2007."

Empasis mine.

Be sure and follow the link to the article if this affects you, there is contact information there!!

Just in case you hadn't seen the notice!

Snow? SNOW????

Growing up I was always told it could get "too cold to snow". I'm kinda thinkin' that anything around, oh say ZERO is too cold to snow.

I can officially say that NO, that is NOT too cold to snow. We're having near white out conditions right now.

Oh, and as a funny haha, the last time it was THIS cold for THIS long, according to the news, was the February I decided to move to Florida.

Funny, as cold as it is, it doesn't seem as cold as I remember that being. But then again, I got a bit more insulation this time around......

Somethin' to Start Your Day

A little Useless ID to get you up and goin' this morning!

And it was good

I. Was. Wrong. I was waaaayyyy wrong. Wrong Wrong Wrong Wrong Wrong. And happy to admit it!

Yesterday was the definition of A Good Day.

Yeah, yeah, yeah it was cold. But you're really only cold going back and forth to the car. Ya just walk fast. Wait a minute. Did I just actually type that? Holy Crap I've been up here too long!

My calls in the morning, after a rough start, went FANTASTIC! I would have been happy with placement in one section. It looks like we screwed up our competitors new set, damn I feel so bad, - NOT and gained space in FOUR sections! WooHoo.

Then, I went to the Reps office and we worked on a new planogram. Too late to drive back to the office so I headed to Fritz's for Movie Day and a Hot Buttered Rum.

The movie? Only the best for our Movie Days - the newest remake of King Kong. Campy does not begin to cover it. But perfect for that setting. At times we were laughing till we had tears in our eyes.

So - today, heck the rest of the week is gonna be balls to the walls. No rest, no stopping. But yesterday was a good day. A very good day.

THAT explains it!

You wanna know why the Bears' lost the SuperBowl? Do ya? Really??

Go over to Grau's place. He even has pictures.

But I'm warning you - they are not for the faint of heart.

Damn, I need to wash my eyes out......

Are You Surprised?

Yes, it's -11 with an expected windchill of -29 today.

Yes, I have a call in the city this morning.

Yes, I'm wearing a flippin' dress.

Yes, I have officially lost my mind.

Advertising Falls Flat

In case you missed 'em, here is a link where you can watch the ad's from last nights game.

I have to tell you, I was rather disappointed overall. I mentioned the Snickers commercial in my Thoughts post. ewwwww. Whoever put that out there REALLY wasn't thinkin'. There may well be a few boxes packed this morning. I've seen it happen before.

Now, there were some that I did enjoy. But the marjority? Yeah, not so much.

The only one I liked in the first quarter was the Go Daddy spot.

In the 2nd Quarter - I laughed out loud at Dorito's Live The Flavor. Oh, and the Budweiser Spot Wink was cute. Also, I got a kick out of the Sprint Broadband ad, but it just didn't "close the deal". It was funny, I could relate, but it just didn't have that PUNCH.

Third Quarter - Budweiser's Great Apes did get a chuckle out of me. As well as the Bud Light Axe spot. I loved the CareerBuilder spot. Gotta tell you, those were my favorites over all.

Forth Quarter - the only ones of notice, as far as I was concerned were again the Go Daddy and the Career Builder.

Budweiser and Coke all put some effort into what they put out there. Cokes just fell flat as far as I was concerned and Bud, while cute, not on a level we've seen before.

They tried some different things this year, contests and such to get folks excited again. But I'm thinkin' it really didn't work they way they wanted.

That's two years in a row now that there hasn't been any real OUTSTANDING ads that folks will be talkin' about. Damn it! It's such a shame.

SOMEone Wasn't Thinking

Ok, obviously I'm going to have to put out a memo regarding the meaning of Common Sense.

Who in their right mind sets a meeting, in Chicago, for a major presentation early on the morning AFTER the Bears' are in the SuperBowl? Cause you can bet your bottom dollar I sure didn't!

Hell, I drank water and ate soup and STILL feel like crap!!!

Damn. I'm not seein' the buyers bein' in that great of a mood.

This should be real interesting.

SuperBowl - my thoughts during the game

This will just be a collection of my thoughts during the game. Since there's no one here to listen to me I'll write it out.

*Before kick-off. Boomer? Shut up.

*Holy Shit!! THAT'S what a kickoff return is SUPPOSED to look like. Bears' Score!!!! 7-0 A nice start to the game.....

*WTF? How can I have no beer in the house?!?! For cryin' out loud, it's the damned Super Bowl and I have no beer!?

*Hey Peyton? Yeah, I'm thinkin' you'll REALLY want to avoid those 3rd and 12's from now on. INTERCEPTION BEARS!!!!

*Shit. I didn't realize Bugger McFarland was playin' for the Colts. Damn, it's a shame, cause I've always liked him.

*Manning is sooo dangerous......

*So far no GREAT ads. Kinda disappointing.....

*53 yard TD - damn, that was pretty..... Ohhhh ugly snap. 7-6 Bears' caught a break......

*Shit Shit Shit. How can you have one kick-off return that will live in history and another look like that? Damn - Colts have the ball. Again.

*Bears' defense comes to the rescue. Colts fumble - Bears' have the ball....

*Just so you know - it's killin' me to watch this game by myself. Holy Crap. THIS is football!! (and to give you a break, I'll put the rest of this in the extended entry.)

*14-6 :-)

*Ok, anyone else as turned off as I was with that Snickers commercial? Yeah, that should help me avoid the vending machine. Yick....

*The dumbest thing I've heard so far this game? The "Analyst's": That wasn't a perfect spiral, there must be some moisture in the air". Gee, what tipped you off? The pouring rain maybe????

*Colts take the lead. I was just thinkin' half time couldn't come soon enough. Not because I'm a Prince fan, cause I'm not. But the Bear's seemed to look a little beat......

*The Simms family are on my list. My not-good list. Phil? Sick of his game calling. Chris? Yeah, I won't even go there right now.....

*FUMBLE!!! damn, fumble.....I don't even have time to do the happy dance and the Colts get the ball back.

*He missed the fieldgoal? Holy Shit! I can't believe that. Ok, 14-16 Colts lead goin' into the half. Now, I just have to find something to do for a bit, cause I AIN'T watchin' Prince....

*14-19 Colts. Still lots of game left....

*Bugger vs a QB = Dog after a bone....Damn.

*These CareerBuilder.com are crackin' me up. They've done pretty good the last couple of years.

*Shit. 4th quarter. Shit.

*Pretty much the ads suck. I'm sooo disappointed.

*Damnit. ANOTHER interception? Not good. Not good at all......

*Well damn. Colt's win SuperBowl 41. Congrats to them. But damn. Just damn.

Pre-Game Show

Ohhhh, I like the drums......

What? I'm just sayin'......

Oh What A Day

I had such a good day yesterday. EXACTLY what I needed. After bein' gone all week, having to be sweet and charming and yada yada yada I really just needed some down time.

Before I left I had talked to Richmond and we had arranged for me to drive up there the Saturday after I got home. Well, after the day I had Friday plus knowing I had a shitload of work to be done, I was afraid I wouldn't be very good company. But I also knew I really needed to just have a relaxing day.

So after a quick late morning nap I started Lana, who wasn't really wanting to start in the 3 degree weather we were having, and headed across the state line.

Please note: the irony was not lost on me that it was the coldest day of the year and I was heading NORTH! Yeah, not surprising if you know me very well.

I am soooo glad I went. We had a fantastic day. The girls taught me to play Wii. Down side there is I need one. Richmond's husband and their youngest entertained us with Guitar Hero. Gotta get one of those too. Blogmeets will never be the same!

Richmond out did herself with yummy soups and sandwiches. (both of which were sent home with me.) Conversation, laughter, movies and food. A perfect day.

Thank you Richmond. Thank you and your family for giving me exactly what I needed. More than you know.

It's Football!!!!!!!

Well it's SuperBowl Sunday and there is no party planned in Tammi's World. It seems very strange. But with the trip this past week and another week long trip next week I just couldn't pull it off. Plus I just don't have the room.

But next year.....oh yes, next year there will be a party.

I am pretty excited that the Bears' are in the game this year. (Well, since my Buc's sucked wet socks for the past few seasons.) And let me tell you, the fever is in the air around here.

I just hope it's not too hot or humid down in Miami. Although the Colts don't mind the cold either. It's just, well when I think of football and winter I think of two teams. Bears' and the Pack. I know, I know there are others that thrive in this stuff - the Steelers, the Eagles, the Jets, the Giants, Buffalo. But seriously - the Bears' thrive in this shit.

Anyway - here in Tammi's World we're rootin' for Da Bears'. Well, and enjoyin' the hell out of the commercials. I've said it before - it's a Holiday for me. Football and commercials. Damn it just don't get much better television in my book.

There's Heat....

....and then there's just stupid.

I swear to pete I don't know where my head is sometimes.

This morning I'm talkin' on the phone and realize I'm sorta hungry. So I decide to make a couple of biscuits for breakfast.

I start up the oven and wait for it to reach optimum temperature. All of a sudden I notice The Belfry is full of smoke. WTF?

So I walk to the stove and realize I had some how turned on a burner as well as the oven. I turned it on High. There was a skillet sitting there. Thank GOODNESS it wasn't one of my good ones. What a mess.

So I get that taken care of, still tryin' to figure out how the flippin' burner got turned on.

I'm in the bedroom getting dressed and noticed there is still a bit of smoke. WTF???

I open the oven door to check the biscuits and realize I had tinfoil in there from when I made garlic toast.

Yeah, it's one thing to heat up the house a bit with the oven. It's another thing all together to start the flippin' house on fire.

Brain. Must engage brain before attempting anything involving the kitchen......

Must Read

If you haven't read this over at Sgt. Hook's place you need to.

Right now.

Please.

I am torn between extreme sadness that our military men and women feel and see the actions of those that dishonor them. And overwhelming anger that so many in this country lack of sense and decency given an ape. Ignoring the positive. Turning on the very ones that protect their freedom to say what they think.

I sometimes find myself echoing the thoughts of Sergeant Jeffers: "America has lost its will to fight. It has lost its will to defend what is right and just in the world. " And it breaks my heart. We cannot let those that are sacrificing so much for us down. We Cannot. It is not an option.

Saturday Question

On Saturdays 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 we go - You have one wish. But in order to take it you have to be selfish. It's ALL ABOUT YOU! No world peace, no cure for the common cold. All You. Period.

So - do you wish for beauty? Wealth? True love? What would it be?

I was thinking about this last night. I would have thought my first inclination would be wealth. Ohhhh to not worry about money any more. What a relief. But, then I really started thinking about it and I realized if I could have anything in the world it would be to wake up one morning and NOT WANT a cigarette. No withdrawls. No meds. No cravings. Just done.

Not smoking I would be able to work out so much easier. So I don't need to wish to loose weight. I could do it myself.

While not a raving beauty I'm alright with the way I look. So that would be kind of a wasted wish.

I've been told one of the things that keeps me from being asked out is the fact that I smoke. So who knows - not smoking may lead to true love. So there's that.

And with as expensive as it is to buy cigarettes anymore, I'd probably be wealthy beyond my wildest dreams if I'd just not do it. Well, between the cost of cigarettes and all the damned lighters I have to replace when I forget to take them out of my purse at the airport.

But on a somewhat serious note, it really would make life soooo much better. So yeah, if I could have one wish it would be to quit smoking EASILY.

What about you? If you could have one wish what would it be?

Music Saturday

Today seems to be a pretty musical day. First the post below takes you to hear the voice of an angel.

Then Jerry shares some Al Green.

Which of course took me on the hunt for some of one of my favorite artist's songs. So....given the fact that it's a cold COLD day here in THE Valley let's heat things up with some Marvin Gaye (he's such a cool MF'er, damn....)

Well shit, I can't seem to be able to pick just one so let's just listen to another one, shall we?!?!

Voice of an Angel

I had the pleasure of meeting TJ in Austin this past spring. Holy Cow, hard to believe that's been almost a year ago.

Anyway - in case you don't know TJ is Jim of Parkway Rest Stop's daughter. With the singin' and playin' going in Texas that weekend we were treated to some beautiful duets from the two of them.

Well, Jimbo, being the proud daddy, points us to a fantastic treat. TJ has some incredible songs posted. Yes, that's her singing. I'd know that voice anywhere. Head on over and listen. Wow. Wow.

And on a side note - I'm sooo excited. I get to see the two of them during my visit to New York City in a week or so. I can hardly wait!!!

Checkin' In....

The storms that slammed through central Florida last night were killer. Literally.

However, Quality Weenie reports her mother is ok, though minus her belongings.

T1G is alright, everything went north of where he is.

I talked with Carmen and she and her family are alright, everything went south of them.

But keeps all those that did live in the path of the storms in your thoughts and prayers. Central Florida is a crap shoot in regards to storms. This looks to have been the worst in a long, long time.

Seeing is Believing

By now, if you've read hear more than once, you know I sell stuff.

Cute stuff. Stuff that kids can make or play with. Dolls you can dress up and play with. Bears and other plush animials that you can cuddle and make your own.

CUTE stuff.

And day in and day out my job is to get retailers to carry my really cute stuff so that consumers can buy it.

It's a simple equation.

But - I'm having a hard time getting retailers to realize just how much consumers will love it.

I wish I could video tape the shows. We have models everywhere. And when folks see what everything looks like they can't get enough. I'm not allowed to sell direct to consumers so I can't let them take anything from the booth. But they want it. And they are willing to pay for it.

All because they saw the finished product.

I tell my buyers over and over again how important it is to display the finished product. You cannot expect folks to look at the picture and KNOW. That's asking a bit much for the day to day shopper. In this society we don't want to use our imagination when we are shoppping. Especially if you are out in a store with a child or two. It's got to slap you in the face and grab your attention.

It's not that people are stupid. Or lazy. It's that they are busy and distracted. And in this world you have to make it as simple as possible. Easy. KISS.

Even more than advertising in the papers or television, just show 'em what it looks like. It's bright. It's colorful. It's cute for cryin' out loud.....

Sitting in the dark last night, prayin' for sleep, that whole thought process kept rolling around in my mind. Don't tell 'em. Show 'em. Seeing is believing.

And I realized how true that is overall. I may believe you if you tell me something is good or nice or beautiful. But when I can see it and touch it my own self, it's suddenly REAL. It's factual.

That kind of makes me sad. Remember the days of true story telling? Remember how you could sit around a campfire and hear a scary story and really be FRIGHTENED? Or someone could describe a sunset and you could SEE it?

I miss the days of imagination. I miss that innocence.

Forgetfulness

I forgot how nice it is to sit inside, smoke a cigarette, drink a fresh cup of coffee AND blog.

I forgot how yummy MY coffee is.

I forgot how great my mattress feels.

Damnit! I forgot to set the flippin' alarm clock!!!!!!!!!

The Definition of Good

Three beers and a pork sandwich. Good conversation and a cozy bar.

I. Am. Home.

Damn, I love THE Valley.

I Like the Middle

Mid West that is!!!

Here we go! Finally, time to head back to the Windy City! WooHoo!!!

My suitcases are all almost packed. We're catchin' a cab in about 30 minutes and then it's just a matter of finding my car in Chicago and makin' it to The Belfry.

Last night was kind of fun. We went to a center called The Block and had dinner and drinks at this really great brewery. I picked up a magazine that is dedicated to beer and beer lovers. Hmmmm wonder if I know anyone that'll like that? :-)

I had about the best margarita ever. In fact I had two. And fish and chips. Real, Good fish and chips. Lots of laughing and stories. You could tell the worst was over. We were giddy with exhaustion. Packing up that booth was tough, especially for 6 women.

Anyway - I should be safely home by 5:00 this afternoon. And I couldn't be happier.

**There's no place like home. There's NO place like home.**

Observations

I've been payin' attention.

I've been lookin' and listenin' to see who is backin' who in the SuperBowl.

Since I left THE Valley last Saturday I've seen ONE Colts shirt. ONE.

But I've seen dozens of Bears shirts/hats/coats.

Every where we go, all we here is "Go Bears!"

From this very scientific observation, I think the nation is backing the Bears.

I'm just sayin'......