Mike McClure Band

I learned about a decade ago that if Jo calls and says, hey whatcha doin this weekend someone I really want to see is in town... that I'm in for a treat.

Last night was no exception. I have never seen Mike McClure live. In fact I only really knew one of the songs he sang last night. Never-the-less the show was beyond incredible.

He was playing this small hole-in-the-wall place downtown. We arrived around 9ish. Fortunately for us, there were only 5 other people there at the time. They didn't start charging a cover until we were on our second round of refreshments.

The band took the stage about 10:30. They played an awesome set for the next hour. About halfway thru Mike stopped playing and demanded that the crowd boo him. In his thinking people get applause even if they're bad. But to get boo'ed you have to be a special sort of something. He didn't continue playing until we had sufficiently boo'ed.

It was a very intimate setting. The place was packed and yet there were no more than 75 or so people. An interesting man to watch was a guy we will call "Irish." Not because we think he was Irish, but because he was wearing a sweatshirt with the word Irish emblazened on the front. Anywho, he had a bucket of some nasty 6.0 stuff and turns out he wasn't sharing with anyone. He stood at the stage and danced like a white man. He also kept sneaking up and sharing his thoughts over an open mic.

When Mike McClure began asking for requests (after the first song) the audience was yelling a song name - Irish looked at one man and said "Is that a song he plays?" Jo and I about fell over laughing.

We were especially treated because the band knew most of the people there and it felt like we were at a private party. Not to mention that after the 5 minute pee break that felt like 12 minutes... Mike announced that he was going to play until they kicked him out - and he did.

Mike McClure Band is high on my list of "You Gotta See These Guys" so don't turn down the next opportunity you get.

Long days and pleasant nights...

RedBird 2009 Schedule

Awesome news from Cardinal Nation!

The 2009 season schedule is out and they begin and end the season at home. And even better almost 50% of the games will be at home in the last half of the season, 37 out of 79.

The last two weeks will be primarily on the road - @ Houston; @ Colorado; @ Cincinatti. If those teams continue to play like they did last season, this is not bad news.

The season ends in Milwaukee. They were a tough team last year. But not too bad for my boys!

My boys will be in Arizona April 13 - 15. The email to my favorite cousin has already gone out to see if he would like to have a family reunion that week. This is the week after Easter. I hate to see his boys lose to my boys around a holiday, but that's life.

Also, the All-Star game that was supposed to be in St Louis last season, will be played there this season. Diana and Kara - I need to which one of you has the most comfortable couch and you need to get me a ticket!

Long days and pleasant nights...

Geico Continued...

So, I found the UPS station that my package was delivered to. It is on the opposite side of Tulsa from me. I am thankful that it did not go to Bangkok.

When I arrived the UPS lady was very nice. She retrieved my package quickly and efficiently. I also gave her the advice that she should NEVER use Geico. I made sure the other sales lady and the the other customer heard that advice as well.

I opened the package to go ahead and prepare my deposit sheet so the time at the bank would be shorter. I was expecting around $93.00. The check was for $34.41. At this point I turned bright red.

Another 25 or so minutes on the phone to Geico, I found out that the "supervisor" I had spoken to before was too busy to speak to me. So this CSR actually understood his job. He researched (new concept for Geico) my account. What he found out was Accounting had managed to re-deposit my money that was wrongfully taken on the day I had requested it. I was told this was impossible. And that the check I had received was the pro-rated amount owed because I canceled in the middle of the month.

I thanked the gentleman for his intelligence and asked him to note to someone that the other 4 CSR's have lost Geico a lifetime customer. I will never use them again because of this ordeal. In addition let someone know that I am telling everyone I see not to use Geico and that will make a larger impact than their silly commercials.

Long days and pleasant nights...

Geico Sucks

Here I am on my high-horse again. If you are in my inner-circle, you know that I no longer have an automobile in my name. So, on Nov. 12, 2008 I called Geico to cancel my car insurance.

The lady was pleasant, changed my mailing address and said that they were experiencing a computer problem, but the cancellation would happen within 5 minutes.

Now, shame on me for not following up the next day. Tuesday of this week I spent 45 minutes on the phone with Geico. They deducted $101 from my checking account Monday. When I finally made it to a supervisor (supposedly) I was assured that the account had been canceled and my money would be returned - in 5 to 8 business days! That wasn't going to help me, so I debated the issue with Tony from Customer Service.

He finally placed me on hold and said that they could overnight a check but I would have to pay them $7. After I stopped laughing, I agreed. He said it would go out FedEx overnight and implied it would go straight to my bank.

So, when I listened to my messages last night at 9pm, imagine my surprise when I had a message from UPS asking for address verification.

I called them back and was told that Geico sent the check to 75 W Tulsa, OK 74501.

Now I have to drive to Bixby to get the check. This isn't over. I'm now going to try to get them to give me the $7 back plus pro-rate the half of the month that I didn't own the car.

In short - DO NOT USE GEICO FOR ANY INSURANCE PURPOSES. It is my experience that they are greatly inefficient in handling easy stuff. I can't imagine the nightmare had I had to file a claim.

Long days and pleasant nights...

Just a short update.

Since the lay-off, I haven't had much time or energy to devote to TammieLand. Please forgive this, but I'm not going to make promises to be more diligent... I'm blue and yet hate to make promises I can't keep.

Oprah had her 3 week checkup yesterday. She was no longer that shy little kitten that sat on my lap. She was all over the exam room. The nurse discovered that she liked dripping water. So for about 15 minutes she played in the sink, only checking to make sure I was still around once. She was a very wet kitten by the time the doctor came in. She has gained a little over a pound, that's because she eats like Strait. (for those of you that don't know, Strait is "my" horse) She has her final "kitten" appointment on the 22nd. At that time she will get the last of her shots, declawed and spayed.

Millie and Oprah finally have learned how kittens and puppies play. They are fun to watch. What a sad sad life I have. lol

Work is good. Carlton has finally discovered that he truly can't live without me. My plan is working very well. hee hee hee

Nothing much else going on.

Long days and pleasant nights...

Thanksgiving

Better late than never...

It was another Thanksgiving, second in a row, of reflecting on the loss of a family member.

This year we buried my Uncle Louis the day before giving thanks. Nicole went to Topeka with me. I realized just how much I have to be thankful for.

I have lost two important people to me in the last year. I am thankful that neither of them had long, horrible ailments. They were both graciously taken rather quickly and didn't suffer for years.

I also have one of the most incredible children ever. She is very much her own person, however, when she knows I truly need her, wild horses couldn't keep her away. She went with me Wednesday just as she had been there for me a year ago. Then Thursday we really didn't do anything.

I found myself turning into my mother. Up and around by 7:30am. Made cinnamon rolls for breakfast. Then baked a pie that turned out to be a 3-step all day process. Washed about 8 loads of Nicole's laundry. (Yes Grannie, her washer and dryer work fine, Ryan just refuses to do her laundry) Embroideried quite a bit. Cooked Thanksgiving dinner for the two of us. Washed dishes what seemed to be all day.

When I commented to her before she left that we hadn't done anything. She just smiled and assured me that this day was exactly what she needed after the toughest semester of her life.

I have a wonderful, if rather large, family. There aren't words to express my thankfulness for the family and friends...

Long days and pleasant nights.

Good Bye Uncle Louis...

This afternoon, my wonderful Uncle Louis was reunited with his Mom, Dad and younger sister. What a wonderful time they must be having.

Here on Earth we are grieving. He left us too soon. We love him very much and miss him more than imaginable.

Please keep my Aunt Ellen, cousins Louie and Terry in your thoughts.

Long days and pleasant nights...

Kolker Zoo Update...

Since I'm on a roll updating TammieLand...

Oprah is settling in very well. She and Millie actually play, kinda. Oprah is an instigator. She has figured out that she can run faster and go places Millie can't. So she sneaks up on her, pats her on the rear or head and the chase is on.

The only real neutral area is my bed. We are all sleeping on it now. Well, if you can call it sleep. We have a new game at bedtime. Millie gets under the blankie and goes to sleep. Oprah pounces on her and the chase begins. Until Oprah jumps to the dresser. Millie gets under the blankie - and you know the rest of this story.

A couple days ago Oprah discovered the bathtub. Oh this is a fun place right after Mommie's shower. She walks on the tub between the shower curtain and the outside curtain. Then of course waits for an unwitting dachshund to walk by and then pounces like the mountain lion she is.

Long days and pleasant nights...

The Family Is Growing...

Wow - Cousins are coming out of the woodwork. Awesome...

First an update on my wonderful uncle, it seems that he is really feeling your prayers - please keep them up. I pulled out all stops and called the saint of the Dellinger clan. Thanks for your prayers Tio.

Second... (I'm starting to sound like Patty) When I opened my email there was an email from Skinny-Butt himself. He sent me this wonderful picture of my Uncle John (one of the coolest of my uncles), Aunt Nova, again lots of fun - and the couple of the year - Aunt Ellen and Uncle Louis. We don't have a date or place for this photo. So I'll just do what I do best and create a scene for you. =) Remember, this is TammieLand and what I say is what you believe...

Seriously though, when we were kids there were so many of us running around all the time. Here's another memory. Fourth of July, Shreveport, Lousiana. I'm pretty sure that it was just before the Frisbie/Clark branch moved to Germany. There was a huge BBQ with Uncle John and my dad running around with all kinds of BBQ objects while managing to light fire crackers at the same time. Jeanna and Patty trying to boss all the kids around. Mike and Irene off doing some sort of mischeif. Droopy-drawers (sorry Jim but this one is gonna stick) just trying to out cute everyone. John, well he was always just being John. The only two kids that were perfect angels - Always where they were supposed to be - doing what they were told; seen but not heard - were Vernon and me. (on the Dellinger side the two perfect angels were Gary Don and me)

Anyway, that's the weekend I learned that cigarettes are great for lighting fire crackers. Hanging from the clothes line isn't something that is recommended. Riding a bike away from the house and thru the neighborhood without parental permission is risky. (of course I had nothing to do with that).

Ok, I have to actually do something productive now. Keep those prayers going!

Long days and pleasant nights...

It's Patty's Fault

I was thinking that mayhap I should place some pics of Uncle Louis here for all those 2 people that are praying for him that haven't met him and read my blog.

So, I have spent the last 10 minutes (that's a very long period of concentration for me) and I can't find any on my hard drive. The closest I came was this picture of adorable baby Tammie on the shoulders of either Aunt Wilma or Aunt Laura. No offense to these wonderful women, but the only Aunts that I can readily name when shown a picture are (in no particular order) Aunts Becky, Ellen, Nova, Ruby and Joy. Patty hasn't scanned the Smith stuff yet and given it to me.

So, I'll just have to give you another story and you can allow your imagination to kick in.

You know that uncle in every family that makes you laugh no matter how you feel? Well that's Uncle Louis. (He is also the only uncle that actually wasn't named Uncle Billy or any derivitive of William) Anyway, he is the prankster. My dad has told many stories of their childhood, Uncle Louis was always at the center of story, whether it be moving an army tank across town, "tattooing" Aunt Wilma while sitting in the car waiting for their parents or building their own race car.

Fortunately, or unfortunately if you're me, he also has a knack at knowing who picking on bothers the most and boy does he dig in. Anytime I'm in Kansas and a prank is pulled on me - whether Uncle Louis is in the state at that time or not, I know it was him. He has passed this trait on to Louie.

It's all in good fun, I suppose. I just wish they would understand that I am special. Louie, I am your favorite cousin. Just remember that...

Anyway, keep those happy thoughts for my wonderful uncle going to your greater power.

Long days and pleasant nights...

This One's for Vicky

Elva Irene Stamper... and her Goosie Jo! Seriously, Renie has so many birds that Alfred Hitchock would've accused her of stealing his story. Poor little Tuvok gets no attention because of the birds.

Long Days and Pleasant Nights!

Albert's the Man!!!

ST. LOUIS -- The National League's best player has also been named its most valuable.
Albert Pujols' magnificent season earned him his second NL Most Valuable Player Award. Pujols finished ahead of Philadelphia's Ryan Howard, who beat him out by a narrow margin to win the 2006 MVP.

Pujols has finished in the top 10 in the voting in every one of his eight Major League seasons, and has been fourth or better seven times. He is the 11th player to win two NL MVP awards.
As baseball waited to hear the results of the ballot, the discussion centered on the definition of "most valuable." Some argued that because Pujols' Cardinals did not make the postseason, he could not be the most valuable player in the league. It was the only possible case against Pujols, who was indisputably his league's best hitter and who plays Gold Glove-caliber defense at first base.

Pujols had already been recognized with virtually every other major individual award for which he was eligible. He was named National League or Major League player of the year by the Sporting News, the MLB Players Association and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, as well as NL MVP in Baseball Prospectus' Internet Baseball Awards.

In the end, the Baseball Writers' Association of America joined the chorus, choosing not to penalize Pujols for his team's fourth-place finish. In fact, it's quite possible that quite the opposite happened -- that Pujols was rewarded for the Cardinals' place in the standings.
Though St. Louis ended the season 11 1/2 games out of first place in the NL Central, the club exceeded many preseason expectations with an 86-win season. And much of the credit must go to Pujols.

It was by some measures the slugger's best season. He hit .357, two points shy of his career high, and set new personal bests with a .462 on-base percentage, a 1.115 OPS and 104 walks. He slugged .653, nearly 30 points better than his career average, cranking 37 homers and 44 doubles. Pujols drove in 116 runs, scored 100 and struck out just 54 times.

It was not only a supremely productive season for Pujols, it was a consistent one as well. He never hit lower than .302 in any month, never had an OBP lower than .413 and never slugged below .558. He came on especially strong in the second half, batting .366 and slugging .706 after the All-Star break. Pujols finished seven points behind Chipper Jones in the race for the NL batting title.

Only four players -- Barry Bonds, Roy Campanella, Stan Musial and Mike Schmidt -- have been the NL MVP three or more times. Musial had been the only Cardinal to win the award twice or more.

In the history of the award, 13 Cardinals have won a combined 16 times. In addition to Pujols and Musial, Willie McGee, Keith Hernandez, Joe Torre, Bob Gibson, Orlando Cepeda, Ken Boyer, Marty Marion, Mort Cooper, Joe Medwick, Dizzy Dean and Frankie Frisch all garnered MVP honors.

Family continued...

To answer a couple of messages...

First, Vicky. Irene doesn't like her picture taken. We have to chase her all over the place and by the time we discover where she is, well, we're too darn tired to snap a picture. This is the only picture I can find that I'm pretty sure she won't shoot me for putting online!

Now to my dear, developmentally challenged cousin. The air in Oklahoma is much cleaner than that in Kansas. The girls are prettier and smarter. You can't argue that, your dad had to go to Southeast Oklahoma to find your awesome mother. My math skills are just fine. I made a 79 in college algebra the 4th time I took it. And I have no clue what you are saying about chemicals. I'm the only one of the cousins, with the exception of maybe Peggy, that doesn't have gray hair. That is just proof that we are the "chosen" ones and God loves us more. =)

Seriously, if you are reading this post, please take a moment and pray to whatever power you believe in for my uncle. Uncle Louis is one of the best men ever to live and he is going thru a very rough time. Please also pray for my Aunt Ellen and cousins Louie and Terry.

Long days and pleasants nights...

Family

Nothing like an uncle having surgery to get the family together!

This week my dad's only brother, Louis, had an operation to remove a pesky little cancer thing from his esophogagus. Patty and Daddy spent a couple days in Topeka. This visit she thought to snap pics and send them to me.

Disclaimer: I look NOTHING like the alleged cousins in these photos. I am much younger than Louie and Terry, especially - and in my recollection, younger than Michael also. I will admit to the fact that the memories I have of Jimmy are a skinny-butt little kid running around in only a diaper.

This is my dad and his Uncle Billy. Uncle Billy is a lot of fun. I'm pretty sure he is my grandma's brother. That would make him a Lindeman. Until I saw this picture I had no idea how much my dad looks like his mother's side of the family. Anywho. Uncle Billy makes jewelry and every time I've been to his house he let's me pick out something. He is also one of the few that Nicole remembers, mayhap because of the jewelry...

This is the scariest of all pictures. On the corners are the "Smith Boys" they are the only ones to carry on the family name, so to speak. On the left is Louie. He is at least 10 years older than me. On the far right is his younger brother who is approximately 15 years older than me. Their favorite past time at family things was to pick on me. One of their favorite memories is the time we were all at Aunt Geniva's house. It had been raining something terrible, and in Kansas that means 10 times the mud. The Smith Boys along with a couple of Frisbie brothers and a second cousin or two decided to vote me OUT of the family. Then my initiation upon being voted out was to be drug up the stairs from the basement and thrown into the 20 feet of mud. When they were recounting this story to Nicole, she asked to be voted out of the family, of course they voted her in as a lifetime member with no way to revoke her membership.

The Clark brothers are my late-Aunt Nova's babies. I'm surprised they survived the hell the rest of the clan (with the exception of me) gave them. If you knew their older brothers aka The Frisbie Boys you would understand.

Anyway, Uncle Louis is recovering very well. Stubborness is a good trait to have in these situations. Patty had fun reconnecting with her cousins. Daddy and Uncle Billy had a contest on who could tell the tallest tale - I haven't heard if a winner was declared. And Yes, Nicole we will take Ryan to meet The Family, soon.

Long days and pleasant nights...

Tired of the Kitten yet?

Ok, I don't think Oprah looks evil. But here are a couple more pics.

She loves to pounce. That must be the Mountain Lion in her. Another favorite is teasing Millie then hissing. But the all-time best game of all is attacking mommie's feet from under the bed and then with lightning speed - dissappear back into her sanctuary.

Long days and pleasant nights...

Night of Oprah

Oh my did this little 3 pound kitten take over.

Yesterday I moved her to the bathroom. The doggie gate was placed at the bedroom door. Now she has abandoned the smaller room for the much larger area under my bed. She should have come with a copy of the Jaws soundtrack. Any foot that goes near the bedskirt is in danger of being attacked by a little black paw.

Last night I held her and sat on the bed with the dachshunds. Once she learned that I would swat at the big critters as quickly as she could, she gave the discipline over to me. Millie bored quickly and snuggled up under the covers. Toby wanted to either eat the kitten or something. He finally started just sniffing her without trying to gobble her up. Oh one more thing, before Millie went to sleep, she gave the "puppy" kisses. Oprah allowed her too.

Toby, Millie and I slept on the bed. Oprah was all over the place. When she finally tired, she snuggled up under the bed.

This morning after she ate, she lost her mommie and cried. (This is where the "awe" comes in) so I held her for about 5 minutes and she was fine.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Oprah moves in...

So many things have happened since I've last visited here.

We have a new President-elect. I have many things to say on this matter, yet fear for my life if I am honest. Turns out the whole nation now knows what I've been saying for quite some time - I live in the redest dad-gum state this side of - well - HELL - basically. I live in the only state in the Union that being a Democrat that believes in capitol punishment and the right for every citizen over the age of 18 to own an AR-something is considered "way too liberal." I'm just sayin I kept my victory dance confined to my own living room.

Nicole and Ryan actually cleaned up enough to have engagement pics snapped. We had a lot of fun that day. Honestly Deana and I have no idea how we managed to give birth to the absolute cutest two "kids" on EARTH. We are also very pleased that they have turned out to be intelligent and made their voices heard in the Nov. 4 election. Again, I won't mention what candidates they supported - but Inhofe should be worried. Side note: Inhofe supports the rounding up of wild Mustangs and sending them to slaughter in Mexico.

Then yesterday, Nov. 9 (Nicole's birthday) Oprah came to live with Toby, Millie and me. She is a simple black farm girl. Born about 12 weeks ago in the Mazie Prairie. I found out that cats seem to just appear and then simply disappear on the prairie. So when Jo introduced her to me and I saw how attached Colt was, well I couldn't help but adopt the precious little thing. She spent her first night in her new room last night. it has a comfy pink and white blankie, plenty of things that dangle and have to be captured. Just outside her sleeping quarters are a kitchen and potty area. This morning we went off to the vet for a physical. She weighs a whopping 3.1 pounds and is in perfect health. She didn't much care for the poking and prodding, but loved the canned cheese. She is now back in her room. I hope she actually comes out for awhile eventually.

Long days and pleasant nights to ye...

Dancing With the Stars...

I'm just sayin' - don't you think this would be AWESOME!

Although, I really don't know where she is hiding that pistol. Unless she is willing to give up her pistol-packin'-hockey mom image.

It's Been Awhile...

I know! But life the last month or year has been a real rollercoaster.

Here are the highlights...

I MET PAT!!!!

Yes, after years of literally being dragged to concerts to see/hear the man. And having him rub-off on me... the opportunity to actually meet him came. Please let me indulge...

The Tulsa State Fair came. I heard a couple weeks before that Pat was playing after the rodeo on the last Friday night of the fair. So, I called his PR people and asked if it would be possible to get a live interview. They seemed as thrilled at my call as I was to their openness to have him appear on our station.

Jo created a list of bullet points for Frank. By the way, they were the exact same bullet points the PR person sent... The day was awesome. Jo came over to ensure that we weren't embarrassed. Frank only said a couple of things that made Pat look confused, such as asking Carole if she had met "Little Jerry Dickens" and letting him know he had no clue who Gary Allen is. We survived those moments due to Pat's awesomeness.

I also found out that Pat has incredible hearing. While I was chatting with my new BFF Brad - he heard me say something about seeing him last year with Willie. Pat turned to me and asked "in Dallas?" I said yes, Jo was able to snatch a couple of tickets from the DanceHall and we were just 3 rows from them. Then added "you remember?" He quickly threw that Pat grin at me and said "Yeah, I was looking for you..." Needless to say, I melted. But the story doesn't end there, it gets better.

We were given tickets to the show and during the his performance, Pat pointed at me and said "I've been looking for you..." talk about melting. I don't remember much of the rest of the night. Except the part where he asked the 3 year old who she was going to vote for and she answered "Obama".

I've gotta run... for pictures of the night - mosie on over to Jo Jo's Dancehall.

Long Days and Pleasant Nights

Woo Hoo Toby...

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a measure honoring Oklahoma native Toby Keith for his commitment to members of the Armed Forces.

Congressman Tom Cole introduced the House Resolution in June. It praises the country music star for performing in several United Service Organizations tours overseas.

The House passed the measure Wednesday evening. Keith has participated in USO tours to Belgium, Kosovo, Italy, Germany and Afghanistan, among other places.

boring...

Haven't been able to update in awhile. So here's what has been happening:

Millie has responded well to the allergy medicine. In fact we are down to just getting an allergy pill when she has a bright red tummy after going outside. The up-side is that Toby and Millie get peanut butter at least once a day. The down-side is that I can no longer enjoy peanut butter sandwiches.

Work is going well. In fact Frank brought me a HUGE slice of Teri's homemade lasagna yesterday. It was gone in seconds!

That's about it. I have plenty to say, just don't want to run people off.

Long days and pleasant nights.

A Day in My Life...

I tried to put this video on before but couldn't for some reason. Just a quick video to show you my exciting life.

YEEEEE HAAAWWWW

For all you Kenny Chesney and Carrie Underwood worshipers...

There's a new (old) band in town. One that has truly paid their dues and have the love and loyalty of an ever growing fan base to prove it.

Jason Boland and the Stragglers are now on the Billboard! They are also #1 in itunes sales with Comal County Blue.

Is the ghost of Waylon actually breaking into mainstream? Even with the throat thing? The throat thing that I'm sure many don't even know about.

Jason is not pretentious. His songs are from the heart, and many times, experience. You won't see him in a long shiny limo - his baby would rather see him in boots and jeans, so to speak. When the boys were here they were truly as awe-stricken to be here as I was to have them here. We were jointly worshipping each other. One of my favorite stories unfortunately isn't mine - but when Jo saw him at CF - she actually told him that she "adores" him. His response was a genuine - "really?" He truly doesn't get how wonderful he is - or how much we really do adore him. Thus making him even more adorable.

If by chance you haven't heard Comal County Blue - I suggest one or both of these options:

hop on over to http://www.thestragglers.com/ and take a listen to the suggested songs that are playing.

or... tune in to http://www.959theranch.com/ The Ranch - where only the best music in the land is played 24/7. You'll hear plenty of my favorite boys along with many many more awesome artists. This is where the heart of pure country still lives.

Country First - YES WE CAN!

Why I like Obama

by Tammie Kolker

Why I like Senator Barak Obama:

The Senator likes How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

the end.

From David Plouffe...

Tammie --

I wasn't planning on sending you something tonight. But if you saw what I saw from the Republican convention, you know that it demands a response.

I saw John McCain's attack squad of negative, cynical politicians. They lied about Barack Obama and Joe Biden, and they attacked you for being a part of this campaign.

But worst of all -- and this deserves to be noted -- they insulted the very idea that ordinary people have a role to play in our political process.

You know that despite what John McCain and his attack squad say, everyday people have the power to build something extraordinary when we come together.

Both Rudy Giuliani and Sarah Palin specifically mocked Barack's experience as a community organizer on the South Side of Chicago more than two decades ago, where he worked with people who had lost jobs and been left behind when the local steel plants closed.

Let's clarify something for them right now.

Community organizing is how ordinary people respond to out-of-touch politicians and their failed policies.

And it's no surprise that, after eight years of George Bush, millions of people have found that by coming together in their local communities they can change the course of history. That promise is what our campaign has been about from the beginning.

Throughout our history, ordinary people have made good on America's promise by organizing for change from the bottom up. Community organizing is the foundation of the civil rights movement, the women's suffrage movement, labor rights, and the 40-hour workweek. And it's happening today in church basements and community centers and living rooms across America.

Meanwhile, we still haven't gotten a single idea during the entire Republican convention about the economy and how to lift a middle class so harmed by the Bush-McCain policies.

It's now clear that John McCain's campaign has decided that desperate lies and personal attacks -- on Barack Obama and on you -- are the only way they can earn a third term for the Bush policies that McCain has supported more than 90 percent of the time.

But you can send a crystal clear message.

Enough is enough. Make your voice heard loud and clear!

David Plouffe
Campaign Manager
Obama for America

Allergies

My poor baby girl.

No, not Nicole, although she did smash her thumb in a door today and had to take a tetnus shot. I've been assured that she will survive.

I'm talking about Millie. She has had a rash on her stomach and neck for about a month. I initially thought it was from a pigskin chew toy. But the rash never completely left even though I had taken the chew toy away from her (and Toby) and she had been on benedryl.

Today we loaded up in the car (those pups love a car ride, it generally ends at Nanna's or Aunt Patty's) and went to the Vet. They needed the annual heartworm test. Since I was a month late in getting them there, Toby didn't have to do anything but get weighed. (15 lbs) He was ready to leave, walked on the scale and then straight to the door. I've suggested they move the scale away from the door. But Millie had to be examined because of the rash.

She did pretty well. Only crying a couple of times and trying to get under my shirt to hide. Turns out she has an allergy from the grass. It has turned into a staph infection due to her scratching and licking.

She is now on antibiotic, allergy medicine, heartworm medicine, steroid and flea med. The good thing for her is she gets drug-laced peanut butter. YUMMY! Oh and Toby gets peanut butter. Now I know why she spent the weekend whining. She also kept Toby and me up all night. She couldn't get comfortable and thought it unfair that Toby and I could.

Anywho, let's hope she gets better. The Dr thinks this may only be seasonal. Let's also hope for that. Otherwise she is going to have to move in with Aunt Patty!

Long days and pleasant nights...

We've Got a Long Way to Go...

...And a short time to get there..."

Some of my earliest movie memories are the Smokey and the Bandit movies. I absolutely loved Jerry Reed. Burt Reynolds was cool too, but Jerry was HOT!

I still turn the radio up as far as it will go when one of his songs comes on. And even though I'm totally tone deaf - I sing along as loudly as I can. =)

Good bye Jerry - say hey to Waylon and Johnny!

no more white shoes...

Labor Day has come and gone.

Time to put up the white shoes and patent leather (does anyone even wear that anymore) Anywho, it looked as though I would have a busy weekend.

Family trip to Norman! woo hoo what fun that will be. Oh, Nicole is too busy and mom is sick. =(

Go to the movie with a friend from work. No definate day set, mayhap Saturday, if not, then Sunday. She had to work on inventory so would call me. No call =(

James has to take his mom to Arkansas but would be back Sunday afternoon. I'm assuming he is still in Arkansas and has no phone service.

So, my weekend was filled with time with the dachshunds. We had fun. We slept a lot and even managed to almost complete a full quilt block. We watched the hurricane. We watched some of the Sunday morning talk shows. No commentary on the current political thing will be posted on Tammieland at this time.

Anywho, we barely made it off the couch. When we did, we went outside and played fetch. That's about it - a Labor Day where absolutely no labor took place. Kinda nice...

Long days and pleasant nights...

"We All Place Country First"

I was going to blog about the Obama acceptance speech. Talk about how moved I was.

Instead, the Krusty Old Man has even stolen space on TammieLand today.

Excuse me Mr. McCain, but you have just insulted me and the sisterhood of the traveling pantsuits - to the core.

Yes, you are showing your "Maverick" spirit. However, you should have been wiser in your choice. All you have done, in my opinion, is prove Senator Obama correct in his statement that you just don't get it. If you are looking to woo Hillary Rodham Clinton supporters into your camp - you should not have chosen a 44 year old beauty queen from Alaska. The only thing that makes her different from Mayor Jimmy Trammel is that she has been Governor for a little over a year. If you wanted a strong female that no one knows - choose Kathy Taylor. Oh sorry, she probably isn't pretty enough. And I'm pretty sure she was never a PTA or "Hockey" mom. She probably doesn't bake cookies either. Oops, sorry, she would be too much much like Hillary.

We want real change, sir. Not change as perceived inside the head of an old man.

Speaking of age... and, yes it is an issue to me. What happens if you get a call at 3am that Iran is attacking Korea? You can't handle the news and stroke out. That leaves us with a Beauty Queen in the Oval Office. I would feel safer with Paris Hilton. At least she would call her daddy for advice before doing anything drastic.

Let's go over Governor Palin's experience:

Married high school sweetheart - been married 20 years today, has a 19 year old son - hmmm
PTA / hockey mom
Birthed 5 children - the last one in April 08
Totally pro life - is using the baby as a billboard for that
Wasilla City Council (4 yrs) population around 6700
Wasilla Mayor (4 yrs)
Governor of Alaska - 1.5 yrs (Alaska is the size of Washington DC)
Lifelong member of the NRA
Proud of helping destroy the Tundra to lay a natural gas pipeline

Voters on the right will like Palin’s conservative credentials: She’s opposed to both abortion rights and gay marriage, supports increased domestic drilling for oil, is a lifelong member of the National Rifle Association and has a son in the U.S. Army - Politico

Yeah, I can see where you, Mr. McCain, would think she and Hillary are very similar.

As for me, I'm firmly in Obama's camp.

Let the fun begin...

Denver Democrat commentary...

I received this email from an authentic Denver Democrat. She had some interesting observations:

Wednesday, August 27, 2008, 3:56 AM

Hello all -Just a quick note from Denver, home of the historic DNC.

First, as a lifelong Democrat, I feel it's ok to make fun of my own party.

Second, for those of you who don't know, my office is in Invesco Field (site of BO's acceptance speech), which has been insanely busy for the past month b/c of the convention, football, etc.

A few observations as we try to survive, I mean welcome, the delegates, the media, and the crazies (and they're not all from Boulder...):

For a 'green' convention, there are a lot of stretch limos & huge SUVs hauling people around town.

Since when did protesting mean that you acted and dressed like an idiot?

Wouldn't it be nice if BOTH parties had spent the $160 million for each convention on something like our national debt, fixing healthcare or social security, or alternative energy? Sorry, dumb idea - those corporate donors need somewhere to spend $ and everyone loves a good party.

Ok - seriously, I know it's a historic event and best of all - the secret service is taking over the stadium tomorrow until after the speech, so I have 2 days off. Thanks Barack! Kris

Comal County Blue

Like I said before, it's the little things that keep us going. I totally believe that. This last year has been very trying, to say the least.

I have only been in my current location 11 months, seems like a lot longer. My Nannie hasn't been gone a year, seems like forever. I've only been a Boland loyalists a few years, seems like a lifetime. Created a bond with a long lost uncle. Lost two cousins; gained two brothers; learned to love thru the tears and hate like I never thought I could.

I've said goodbye to too many people over the last 11 months. But some of the most wonderful things have also happened.

My daughter is engaged to her soulmate. I was able to visit Tuscon, Phoenix and San Antonio and see all three cities from the eyes of the natives, those that truly love their homes. I won't trade those weekends for anything.

My favorite singer found out he had a polyp on his vocal chord. He is in fact being operated on the very day his latest CD is officially released - August 26, 2008. Today, I received that very CD - Comal County Blue in the mail. Betty Mom thought something had bit me from the squeal that came out when I saw the return address! I was probably within the first 10 people to pre-order the CD. I was equally excited that in addition to getting the cd BEFORE the common folk - I have an authentically autographed one! Yes, he really did sign it. You could still smell the ink from the sharpie and I have enough things that he has signed to verify it.

It is now 7:45ish and I already have it on my mp3 player and have listened to almost the whole thing. All I have to say is WOW. He is still JB and they are maturing in their music. This is a good thing. I love him from Pearl Snaps to Comal County and every truck stop in between... Hardly a day goes by that I can't find one of his songs in something that happens in my life. I quote him almost as much as SK.

It's the little things. A new CD from a favorite artist. New music to listen to and sing while standing at the tips of his boots. Thanks Jason!

Long days and pleasant nights.

Summer of the Monkey

It's begun!

Steve was supposed to come over this week and get my lawnmower running. He is positive it is as simple as cleaning the carborator. Well, the day he was supposed to be at my house he ended up in the emergency room. Something about gastro something and another word that is too long to say or spell. His potassium level dropped severely. He is on a clear liquid diet (no water please) he has to drink gatorade and broth to raise the salt in his system.

The night before that happened - I went to my Pilates class - the teacher has dissappeared. I truly enjoyed this class. It was my once a week escape.

Is this just a coincedence? HELL NO! What is going on, you may ask...

MONKEYSHINE

Fortunately he is at the southern end of the Hill Country and can't get enough energy up to Green Country to do much more harm than salt depravation. He sits there with his goofy grin and unassuming OSU clothing. He will not win! We already have a plan to get around this minor inconvenience.

I haven't gone mad yet so that means his powers are weak. Or are they?

Go then there are other worlds than these...

Look Who's Going to the RNC!

The elderly Senator McCain will be very well protected at the RNC. My favorite cop cousin has graciously volunteered for the post.

OK, mayhap he won't be the Senator's personal body guard, but I lay my watch and warrant that he would be the better protector.

Congrats cuz! I'm secretly envious - what I wouldn't give to be at the DNC next week! (of course your counterparts would be protecting Obama from me)

Remember - shoot first, ask questions if anyone is left standing - it's the Republican Way!

Long days and pleasant nights.

Feels Just Like It Should - Uh Huh...

Life has been relatively boring, yet incredibly busy.

Actually ended up buying a new fridge. So now one is in the shed out back, to be returned to the house if I ever move. The other has made back into retirement, successfully.

The only problem with allowing one fridge to hang-out in the shed and the other to go back into retirement is that the fridge in the shed started chatting with the lawnmower. Now I seem to have an appliance mutiny on my hands. The lawnmower is trying to fake illness. That will be resolved as soon as my brother-in-law can make it to Tulsa. In the meantime, if my body is found in pieces or I become a crazed killer maniac weilding a machete - have the police talk to the lawnmower and the fridge. You might also have them chat with that damn monkey at Don and Nadeen's house.

In other news...

I fear that I've gotten Millie into a habit that isn't such a good one. After I finished my lunch this afternoon Millie started crying hysterically. She jumped onto my lap and began hugging me while howling. I asked her if she wanted a nap and a blankie. She immediately jumped down, grabbed a toy and was back on the couch as soon as I threw a blankie over my legs. Sound asleep in seconds.

Looks like the Redbirds are in the fight for the Wild Card. Up until this year I complained rather loudly about the Wild Card, now I like it. We are still 2.5 games behind the Brewers for the play-offs. It's possible to overcome them, getting less likely by the day - but I'm still hopeful.

Beer for My Horses: Only thing I can say is MUST SEE! I about wet my pants laughing so hard. and I'm pretty sure the beer had mostly worn off before the middle of the movie.

Only days before Comal County Blue is released. I can't wait. In case you were wondering - Yes I have already ordered it.

My job review is being written. Carlton says he can't think of very many nice things to say. So, keep your fingers crossed. I've been offering him nice things to say about me, we'll see if he takes my advice.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Tonight the Answer's Austin...

Again I say, this nightmare of a year has to end.

I have stopped reading the traffic reports that come in from OHP. You only have to open one with the header - fatal, next of kin notified - and recognize the name to teach you that lesson.

However, the news of death always reaches one way or another. Today, I opened the weekly internet update from the weekly "rag" in Pryor. Headline news - Nita Jacobs died Monday.

I first met Nita when I married into Pryor. She was a wonderful woman that got the bad end of a bad straw. She married Nolan (also wonderful man) not out of love, but because he needed a caregiver. His children only cared about his money. She took very good care of him, to the point of even dedicating her life (while he was alive) to his church. Over the years this marriage of convenience turned into love. He took care of her in death as she had taken care of him in life. She was one of the true Angels out there.

Goodbye Nita - say hey to Nannie, and assortment of friends and family now that you've reached the other side of the clearing. You can once again help Nolan tend the roses.

I so desperately want to go back to the Hill Country. Sitting poolside with a beer in my hand and not a care in the world. Watching the coons and deer eat their breakfast and dinner. Listening to the birds singing.

Don't get me wrong, I love my Okie roots. But I'm beginning to believe that the only "happy" place is South Bound 35.

I'm so very tired of being somewhere in the middle, and pretty sure the sun is shining somewhere in Texas - tonight the answer's Austin and the Comal County blue... (here's hoping you are well and singing again soon Jason...)

The party's not over - it's just leaving town - so don't be dissapointed - its gonna come back around...

It's the Small Things...

It really is the small things that make you happy.

A trip to the Hill Country with a "best" friend and two "good" friends. A surprise email from a favorite uncle - a joke that is totally unexpected from him. The sun rising in the morning. Puppies to cuddle up with. Friends to share a laugh...


Today, the folks I work with are getting a good laugh at my "expense" you might say. About a month ago I noticed that my fridge wasn't working so well. So my younger sister and brother-in-law brought me a fridge that they had used until inheriting another one. The new-to-me fridge had been in retirement since November 8, 2007, not to mention it is over 30 years old. I tried to bring it out of retirement and it fought my decision, and it won. Today, the Lowe's truck backed into my drive and I have a brand new, fresh out of the box - refrigerator!


Until you have lived without a freezer, you don't know the joy of being able to cook and freeze! Or going to the grocery store and not avoiding the Meat section.

This has been a very rough year. I'm not speaking of the physical year, I'm talking about the year beginning Sept 29, 2007. I can't remember a time when so many people I've known intimately or "well" have gone to the clearing at the end of the path. The latest to say goodbye to are Uncle David and Emma Lou - both are missed more than words can express.

We need the small things to keep us distracted and help us to move on in a world that is moving on regardless of what we want. So I stand in front of my new refrigerator and thank Gan that I am able to enjoy this small thing.

Go then there are other worlds than these...

Boys...

We are each of us angels with only one wing. And we can only fly embracing each other. - Luciano de Crescenzo

We like to say "who needs men?" Well the truth is they really are needed for more than just to carry out the garbage and mayhap mowing the lawn. Can you imagine if you hadn't had your Daddy growing up?

It's true, what a man can do a woman can do better and with time left over. However, sometimes it's nice to have one around just to talk to and well be treated like a "woman." Saturday night I actually had male company. It was fun. He wanted to go to dinner and a movie, then found out I was cooking a pot of beans... Well somehow that turned into an invitation to come over for beans - taters - and cornbread. I have decided any man that likes my puppies and will watch a Johnny Depp movie with me is worth keeping around for awhile.

I'm happy. Yet can't seem to get shed of that feeling that the world has moved on and left me in one of the Wasteland villages of Mejis. (translation: I feel completely alone except for the occasional traveler that stops by for a very brief visit)

Now, I find out that Boland will be sidelined longer than anticipated. Please pray to your favorite God that his surgery and recovery are successful. It will be devistating if this voice is silenced.

Anywho, not much sense to my ramblings today, but felt I've neglected TammieLand too long. And you guys are a great sense of support...

Long days and pleasant nights.

Beginners Pilates...

Pilates was formed by Joseph Pilates during the First World War with the proposal to improve the rehabilitation program for the many returning veterans. Joseph Pilates believed mental and physical health are essential to one another. He recommended a few, precise movements emphasizing control and form to aid injured soldiers in regaining their health by strengthening, stretching,and stabilizing key muscles. Pilates created "The Pilates Principles" to condition the entire body: proper alignment, centering, concentration, control, precision, breathing, and flowing movement. - Wikipedia

Last night I went to my first ever Pilates class. It was only 45 minutes. The instructor is a wonderful "little" man named Barry. Just a side note, he felt it necessary to let my girlfriend and I know that while he is a Pilates instructor - he is straight. Anywho, the only equipment necessary for Pilates is a mat. My friend and I were excited because we have grown not very fond of weights. Boy were we in for a surprise. Once we began the floor exercise portion and had to keep our legs in the air at various points for various durations of time... life began to get tough. This very nice, straight instructor began looking an awful lot like Hitler, Musselini and Stalin all rolled into a 5 foot something man named Barry. It did not help that he kept reminding us - as he heard our moans of anguish - that this is the beginners - beginners class.

Then after I made it home, I made the mistake of getting the purple dinosaur out and playing tug-of-war with Millie. I had forgotten that the purple dinosaur is laced with doggie crack. Toby and me both tried hiding for 30 minutes before she finally gave up and went to sleep.

Go then there are other worlds than these...

Two Things I Love...

...Jason Boland - Jason (the ghost of Waylon) is having some health issues. He has been working triple time the last six months on a new CD and keeping up his live appearances. He has a polyp on his right vocal chord. While it is treatable - he has been forced to cancel all performances until released by the doctor or it is potentially career ending. I blame myself. The last time they were at the station, I asked for a new CD - less than a year later they were in the studio. Jason, man, my thoughts are with you and I've been praying to every god I can think of to help you heal. In the meantime, he has released the first single off the new CD: Comal County Blue. It's really good... www.thestragglers.com

...the St. Louis Cardinals. They weren't expected to finish above last place this season. What a surprise they were the first half of the year. Seems more than just my prediction about the NL West is coming true. They woke up one morning and realized they were actually a good team, and well, have gone to hell in a handbasket. They have managed to lose 4 straight. That's not the bad part of this story. The really bad thing is it was 4 home games against the Brewers! That's only slightly less embarrassing than losing to a team in the NL West. Unless the pitching staff gets control and the bullpen stop walking so many people - even a Wild Card is out of the question.

Go then, there are other worlds than these...

Aunt Tammie Vacation

Last year Patty and I "kidnapped" Hayden for a couple of days and called it our "Hayden Vacation." We never dreamed that this summer he would call both of us and demand 'cation. Nor did we imagine that he would actually have a list of things he wanted to do on his 'cation.

So last weekend was his Aunt Tammie Vacation. Sinclaire has also been feeling terribly neglected, so I took the opportunity to take care of both of them. We had the best time!

First on Hayden's list: Work with Frank
Friday night the whole gang met Frank and me at the Porter Peach Festival. We were live in the 4/5 & 6pm newscasts. Hayden helped by running around and spending all his momma and mooma's money. He also made it on-air with Frank in the 6pm. We filmed some b-roll of Frank talking to the crowd, Hayden was in that as well. It was terribly exciting to see himself on TV.

Second on Hayden's list: Go to Ollie's
When Poppie, Hayden and I made it back to Tulsa, we stopped at Ollie's. He loves that place. It has model trains running all over the place. It's a greasy spoon with hamburgers and the absolute best breakfast buffet.

Third on Hayden's list: Space Chimps
We took Sinclaire with us. She made it to my house pretty early. We had to walk to Channel 8 to get my car. That just about killed Hayden. It was a loooong walk. Then we had a lunchable and were off to Space Chimps. The kids loved the movie. I think they liked the video games at least as much. They also got popcorn, soda and air-heads at the movies.

Fourth on Hayden's list: Chuck E Cheese's
If you have never been there, I don't recommend it unless you have a 4 and 5 year old with you. We saw the kids when they either needed a drink or ran out of tokens. A two hour stay there and both were pretty tired. Daddy and me, that is. Aunt Tammie also bought them cotton candy as a present to take home.

Notes from the weekend: Millie loved having someone to run and play with. She also escaped outside a couple of times to get away from the children to rest. Seems jumping on the sofa at home is not something that is allowed, but at Aunt Tammie's the pillows fall on the floor as if inviting jumping. Shoes are required at home, but can't seem to be found at Aunt Tammie's. Sponge Bob 24/7 will drive an adult to madness.

I pray that each year both of them want an Aunt Tammie vacation.

Long days and pleasant nights...

Baseball Halfway Mark

Just a quick note to update those of you that care and even those that don't.

We are halfway thru the season now. My prediction that the NL West is the worst in all of baseball has come true. Not one team is even at .500. Pitiful! Arizona had very high hopes. Honestly they were the only team in the division that was supposed to be contenders. However, Joe Torre has proven himself as a manager. He has taken a team that couldn't even figure out how to tie their own shoelaces and made them a contender in the West. Keep in mind, Arizona sucks this year, even with Brandon Webb. Currently LA and AZ are tied for first both are at .495 with 49 wins and 50 losses each. Chicago is in Arizona this week, so look for the DBacks to add at least 2 and possibly 3 more losses. Note to the DBacks - it would help me out a LOT if you take down the Cubbies...

The real competitions are in the East and Central divisions. Very surprisingly, the Mets are at the top of their division. Just a few short weeks ago they fired their beloved manager, in a middle of the night ordeal that found itself on the Daily Show. Stewart whined about it for week - but now he is all smiles, seems that was just the shot in the arm the team needed. In the East as with the West there is a tie for first. Unlike the West - the teams are showing respectable numbers: NY has a .535 while the Phillies are at .531 - each have won 53 games and lost 46. The rest of the season is a run for the finish. The 2nd place team is only 1 game out.

Now to my favorite division - the NL Central. Frank has tried to get me to go Dodger Blue while Jeff thinks I should watch the DBacks. My question to them is "why" I have one of the best teams out there. I was ready to watch the other teams play this year. If you recall we gave up 17 men this season. Everyone, including me, thought LaRussa had lost his freakin mind. We also started the season with our only two starting pitchers that anyone had ever heard of on the DL - and our best reliever went there quickly after the season started. Pujols and Molina have both made it on the DL also. The fact that we are giving the Cubs a run for their money is impossible. When asked why the team is playing so well, LaRussa says it's like the old days, you aren't guaranteed a slot on the team, you have to earn it each day. Boy have they earned it. My Redbirds are sharing 2nd place right now with the Brewers - the Redbirds are at .564 with 57 wins and 44 losses. The Cubs are 2 games ahead with a .586 - 58 wins, 41 losses - the best record in baseball! No reason out there at all to watch anyone else play. =)

Go then, there are other worlds than these...

Rocklahoma 2008

Last year, the first year of the ginormous 80's hairbands concert, was a lot of fun. I went with Kenna, Jimmy and Regina. We went two days and partied out to the music Jimmy and I remember from our teen years.

I opted not to renew my $100 ticket when the price went to $400 plus. I'm happy about that too since I had no clue who most of the bands were and therefore the music just annoyed me. We added Rocklahoma to Frank's Fun Friday Festivals list and were there live in the 4, 5 and 6pm newscasts. Frank had asked for one of the bands to be his primary interview in the 6pm. A man I had never met drove up on a golf cart with the funniest looking creature wearing a velure bright orange jogging suit. He had an entourage of two voluptuous women that were wearing so little clothing, even Frank didn't want to put them on air. I started trying to make small talk and do the producer thing, got the guys name - Donnie V, and band - Enuff Z Nuff, about that time Frank walks up. The first words out of his mouth were "Donnie V - OMG!" That began the night.

Barbara gave us a tour of the backstage area. Frank and Donnie V had become best buddies. We had corporate tickets and were able to go just about anywhere we wanted. The problem with going places with Frank is that you can only take two steps every half hour. People literally mob him. They want to give him hell about the weather or this or that, and almost always want a picture with him. Barbara snuck him backstage where he watched his favorite band of the night. Kenna and I left long before Frank.

Saturday Kenna and I went back as worker bees. Let me tell you - being just a volunteer isn't too bad. That is if you can handle smelling like beer at the end of the night. You meet a lot of really nice people that are very appreciative of you. I was offered marriage, money for my TK hat, and other things because I could pour a mean and fast beer. It was also fun seeing old friends that I haven't seen in years, literally.

The only scary part was when the wind and rain came and we thought the tents were going to blow away to Kansas and take us with them. Or, we would all be electricuted since the power box was 2 feet underwater. It didn't stop the party - only made our lines for beer longer.

Then when absolutely no one that had signed up for the last shift showed, I had the pleasure of working with Hunter (the new me), Jo and Lorri. That was fun. It was especially fun when the really cute girl that was hitting on Hunter actually believed that Hunter was was my son and she kept trying to get me to talk to him about going out with her. Then there was the kid that asked us if we had seen a man wearing a pink hat and dressed like a woman. We said no, he explained that was his step-dad and he was is in dire need of cash so would we keep a lookout for him. A while late that man actually came to me for beer! I totally believe John, Marlene and Jo about the weirdness having no end at Rocklahoma.

Go then there are other worlds than these...

Hola San Antonio

After two of the most wonderful days on Earth we just knew that day 3 of our Texas Experience couldn't be any better and likely not match the first two. To our delight, we were so terrifically mistaken. As Jo would say, if asked, how can we have been mistaken about a day in Texas being just as AWESOME as the day before?

We were greeted by the now familiar smell of Starbucks quality coffee. We also had breakfast. I found time to lie beside the pool on the hammock like swing. You would have never known we were in the middle of the city. It was so peaceful. I had asked to go to the Alamo. I think Jo wanted to go to the Riverwalk and everyone agreed that it was a Texas size shame that I had never had a hurricane. Those are really the only three things on our agenda, so you can see how we didn't really think the day, while being fun, would come close in comparison to the previous days.

I want to start out this day with the story of our hosts, Don & Nadeen. It truly is a Hollywood type love story. Who knew that really happened? Don and Nadeen knew each other from a few social events they each had attended years ago in Muskogee, OK. Don claims to have never met Nadeen. Anywho, Nadeen was on year 15 or 16 after her divorce. She found out from her cousin that Don's wife had passed away. Nadeen is a wonderfully thoughtful woman, she wrote him a letter. To her surprise, he wrote back. Marlene (Nadeen's daughter) suggested that they email each other. Nadeen had no clue how to even turn on a computer so the task of actually sending the email fell upon Marlene. Marlene and Nadeen say that the author was Nadeen, Don disputes that. =) After a couple of months of this correspondence he invited Nadeen to Germany (where he was currently living (retired military- parttime employee of the CIA) and he offered to pay her fair. Only a fool would turn that down. Their first few minutes together he was kissing her or if he's telling the story, she was kissing him. Their second date, he proposed. The pictures are incredible. They have been married since 2000 and are truly living the "happily everafter."

Ok, now to the day. We went to the Alamo. It is awe inspiring. It is a major piece of American/Texan/Mexican history. I've been once before and was in awe. This time Don was our tour guide and he knows everything about everything. When we left the Alamo we walked a couple blocks and came upon this church. They were about to begin a service and had the live music going. We went in to observe. I immediately had the urge to sprinkle the Holy Water - kneel and pray. As we walked out, I was caught off guard. We walked by the remains of the men that fell trying to save the Alamo. This tribute is so powerful in it's simplicity. A powerful reminder of the risks and lives that have been taken for our homeland.

We went to the Mexican Market; the Riverwalk; ate at a wonderful Mexican restaurant. In the midst of the day we happened upon this child enjoying the Texas sun. I couldn't help but get a picture. Sadly, this was the last full day of vacation. The next morning we packed up, said our goodbyes, visited Geisla (sp) the wonderful German woman that lives next door, and headed back North.

The motto for the weekend was "It's All Good!" and it really was. No regrets. Good Times, Good Friends, It's All Good!

Go then there are different worlds than these...

Whiskey River Take My Mind...

The bestest 4th of July ever was this year. I'm not sure it will ever be topped.

We woke to the smell of freshly brewing Starbuck style coffee. Jo made a beeline to the coffee and the solarium. I lingered in the shower and then ventured downstairs, after being assured that the evil monkey was nowhere to be thought of. First thing I did after finding a coffee cup was to break said cup. While picking up the pieces, I met our hostess for the first time.

Nadeen and Don are darn near the nicest people on EARTH. Mayhap in the niceness category with my beloved Tio NT!

The night before we had feasted on Nadeen's home cooked brisket. This morning after the most awesome breakfast of bacon, eggs, biscuits and gravy, and the most scrumptious melon from the Czech Stop (more on that in another blog) Jo packed about 20 brisket and bbq sandwiches for the picnic. Then filled 2 - one gallon bags full of chips. We laughed at the ungodly amount of food we were taking - however - we didn't laugh long. The cost of food was outrageous. The fact that Nadeen forced Jo to make so many sandwiches actually saved the crew tons of money. We were the envy of our neighbors.

The day brought just about everything imaginable. It started off warm. Pat took the stage and like magic, first guitar strum and the Heavens opened up forcing the populous closer to him. He left the stage and the sky immediately cleared. Most memorable part of Pat's act - "Welcome to San Antonio! Birthplace of .... ME!!!" That's what makes him so special - he recognizes that we love him that much.

We endured a couple more showers, nothing like the gullywasher like the one during the Pat portion of the day. Robby called at some point. The funny thing is that Robby seems to worry about me - a lot. We have yet to figure out why, but I think it's wonderful to have someone care. Jo convinced him that I was passed out on the lawn and she had just left me. The truth was that I had hung behind talking to our new friends. I'm sure they were kinda scared of us and thought it best to befriend us. We weren't the strangest of the day. There was a cute cowboy, nice body, but for some reason found it necessary to show off his undies. He also danced with anyone that walked by and halfway looked at him.

I met the cutest / hottest cop on Earth also. Sorry, I only have the pic that I took of him from my admiring distance. His name is Chad. He is a Selma (HOT) cop. Jo, Marlene and a whole slew of our "new" friends have the pics of the two of us together. We convinced him to take the picture to show my cousin in Tucson that the cops in Selma are way hotter than the ones in Tucson. The thing that amazed everyone is that at any point if I was asked where he was - I could point him out - in a crowd of tens of thousands. When we posed for the picture, he couldn't believe how many cameras were pointed at us. =)

I was thrilled to learn that this wasn't just any Willie's 4th of July Picnic, it was also a Last of the Breed concert. We were given the pleasure of seeing Ray Price and the Hag - LIVE. This is our reaction to the 2nd chord of the Hag's Rainbow Stew.

Then Willie took the stage with his family. Jo and I sat back and just soaked up the music and the big Texas sky. We lingered a bit after the almost 90 minute performance by Willie and family. I've seen him 3 times now in the last year and that is by far the longest he has been on stage. It truly was a day in Heaven.

After leaving the picnic - we found an IHOP and had the most outrageously sinful pancakes and eggs. Then made our way home and fell into restful slumber that even Monkeyshine couldn't disturb.

Long days and pleasant nights...

Southbound 35...Let Texas Fill Our Souls

Thursday morning, July 3, 2008 I was up before the roosters. It's all good, though. That was the day we began the most awesome trip ever. I was in Mazie by somewhere around 8am. John and Marlene arrived not long after and we were on our way south to what I now know is the "Hill Country."

Jo and I had packed snacks so we could save some money on the road while eliminating a couple stops on our way to the ultimate destination - Willie! Marlene discovered quickly that our idea of "snacks" includes bologna and cheese. Thankfully, she was delighted by the surprise.

We had heard of Willie's Truck Stop in Abbott, Texas and decided to make a pit stop there, since it was right on 35 South. This was the first real clue that the weekend would be totally spectacular. We thought that the truck stop had been open for awhile. Willie has been on the road talking it up - he even talked about it on the Colbert Report. What a surprise when we were just one vehicle of about thousands to pull over and park. There was a huge picnic going on, including a stage with live music, tents of food, and a few people selling souvenirs. This was also John and Marlene's introduction to Jo and Tam in that Texas Country Fog that people seem to think we have.

There is a Willie Saloon, a Willie general store and Willie gas pumps. We were truly in Heaven. Little did we know it was just the outskirts of Heaven. We took pictures of everything, including the dancing frogs and frog worshipping the Texas flag. About ten minutes further south on 35 - we passed the Honeysuckle Rose headed North. We barely missed seeing Willie at his truck stop grand opening.

We made it to our 5 Star hotel somewhere around 8 or 9. We had a wonderful princess room with twin beds awaiting us. There was a pool and all the accomodations we could ever ask for. As we enjoyed a drink pool side we also were blessed with seeing the deer and racoons feed in our lawn.

We did have one thing to be worried about. Monkeyshine! Jo went to the bathroom came out rather perplexed, made me go into the room and look - sure enough - there he sat looking innocent in his OSU t-shirt. We knew better though and ran screaming from the room. That night our door was locked and we made sure that we both said our prayers to every god we could think of to warn him off.

Go then there are other worlds than these...

Wonderful Day

Happy Birthday to my BFFJo! She is now legal when she enters a bar! The last dozen years have been just testing the local law enforcement...

Also, it is the anniversary of Nannie's b-day. If she were here she would be 87 years young today. The good news is that I'm sure she baked a cake and a pie and she and Poppie are enjoying it together, once again!

That's all I have time for now. We leave before the chickens wake up tomorrow morning. I would complain - but we will be South Bound - Willie in Sight! Nothing in that complaint worthy.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Busy Saturday

We had a very busy day here on Mt. Krumpit. We slept on the couch last night. Woke up around 6:30 this morning and have barely stopped going.

After breakfast and coffee, two loads of laundry, stripping the bed, Mommie went shopping. Nicole and Ryan were the beneficiaries of todays trip. Tomorrow I'll go to the grocery store and prepare for the roadtrip to Willie.

I have vacuumed, dusted, washed dishes, changed and laundered the sheets on the bed, ironed - all the house work is complete. To the point that I have been on my feet so long that my bum knee began complaining. So I ran a hot bath while the Redbirds play the Royals and added some aching muscle smell good stuff. (sorry Clint - we are making the Royals pay for beating us 4 in a row) When I came out of the bath I had to grab the camera. Toby was sound asleep on the bed - Millie was passed out on the couch. It must've been a very tough day for them as well.

Then Millie hid from the camera by burying herself under the blankie. Well she was alerted to a cat and this is what I saw...

Go then there are other worlds than this...

When is a Rose just a Rose?

"The man in black fled across the desert, and the gunslinger followed..."

If you have read TammieLand at all you know my favorite author is the King himself. Just read the header. I have read the complete Dark Tower series including the comics.

Mayhap you already know of the rose that is protected in New York City. If anything happens to it - the tower collapses and the universe will dissappear. Roland and his ka-tet find themselves traveling between worlds to save the rose as they seek the Tower. Their mission isn't easy, the Man in Black and his minion are always a step and a half ahead.

Imagine my surprise when while mowing I found a single rose growing in a place that it had not been planted. Growing despite the fact that gravel surrounded it and cars surely drove over it. Growing despite the world around it. Ye kennit? I am going to dig it up and plant it in a planter and take loving care of it. I'm certain this is the sign that my dinh will be arriving soon...

"Go then, there are other worlds than these."

Softball

Summer is here, finally.

That means plenty of baseball - and when I can't find a baseball game, there is usually a softball game available.

Last week the Tulsa Day Center for the Homeless held is 2nd Annual Homerun for the Homeless. It is a softball game that pits Radio stars against TV stars. This is a very good cause. Last year they netted $50,000 from the game. This year - the TV team captain was News Channel 8's very own - Frank Mitchell. Pitching for the TV team was Clint Boone and playing Center and lead Cha Cha dancer - Burt Mummolo. It was a lot of fun, I hope it raised even more this year.

Last night I made my first venture out to see the News Channel 8 softball team play. Again, lots of fun. Carlton was our pitcher. Linda played first base - and OMG what a softball player she is. I'm wondering if it was on her resume' or if we just lucked into it. We won the first game. It was 10pm and well past my bedtime, so I wished them luck and left confident that we would bring in a second victory. I'm told that just as I walked away from the left field fence, everything fell apart. Mayhap I should stay longer next week.

Nothing else new. Exercise training is coming along. The Texas trip is next week.

Long days and pleasant nights to ye.

Country Fever 2008

Country Fever 2008 was a lot of fun, for me anyway. Friday night was Red Dirt night, and you know I was totally there for Dierks! ;-)

Seriously, if you have seen the slide show of the pics that my camera brought back, you know that only 2 artists, maybe 4 -were there.

Barbara managed to snag John Cooper - Red Dirt Godfather - for our 6pm interview with Frank. He was awesome. In the meantime, she led us into the VIP tent to meet the man and Stoney LaRue. I was literally 2 feet from Jason Boland and Stoney! Unfortunately, I had to leave before they began playing - Jo and Missy tell me that it was the most incredible experience. This totally makes up for the Billy Bob's thing, Jo!

JB gave us 4 new songs off the new CD that has been promised in August. They, of course, are absolutely wonderful. I had already heard two of them. You know I don't see the man in concert very often at all. Pat was, PAT and actually cleaned up his show a bit - for the families. Kevin Fowler, on the other hand, was his absolutely wonderfully incredible self - mouth and all.

Mom and Dad attended Sunday's concerts with me. Willie was incredible. The whole 3 or 4 songs I saw before the skies opened up and let loose. It reminded me of the ending of Needful Things. The battle of good and evil culminated in a huge storm over one small area. That was kinda what happened. The storm formed directly over the Country Fever grounds when Willie took the stage. Kinda awe inspiring.

Before I go, want to pitch Johnny Cooper. This kid is absolutely incredible. Jo and I first saw him a couple years ago at the Calf Fry. His voice caught our attention and we made our way to the stage. We were stunned. He looks all of 12. He was actually 17 at the time. Now at 19 his show has greatly improved, his voice is still incredible and growing stronger. He has a CD - and let me tell you - it ROCKS. If you get the chance to see him, I strongly advise you go.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Health & Exercise

I wasn't going to bore you with the details of my Health Assessment, but the result of boring one of my favorite people is too good to pass up.

According to Nader - my new trainer - I am very healthy. I survived the 1 minute of situps (barely and not without whining) and the 6 minutes on the treadmill while attached to a heart monitor. I even managed to survive the finger prick for blood. He is going to start me on a primarily aerobic exercise program.

I sent all the details to a very few people. This list included my Tio T. (For those of you that aren't privy to our correspondence - that's Uncle NT. ) Anywho, he has challenged me to be his "exercise buddy." I've accepted and the challenge is on!

So, while I sweat away at the gym, Tio will be sweating away at home. The toughest part for him will be to exercise instead of eating all the time. =) That's a Dellinger trait - we do love our food.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Quick Max Update

This is the "New" Max.

I'm told he no longer fears jumping up and down from the couch or the bed or anything else. When Aunt Tammie was there he was so pitiful. He had to be lifted on and off the furniture. He would just lie around and cry until someone picked him up. Naturally, this didn't go over very well with his Daddy, who accused Aunt Tammie of spoiling him. Please, do you know of any four-legged critters that I have spoiled?

Anywho, I promised a picture after the first Barber visit.

Long days and pleasant nights.