The Bourbon Legend

What a weekend this has turned into.

With all my chores complete well before noon Saturday and Nicole nowhere in sight, I decided I would go see Boland. Even if I had to go alone.

Nicole came in around 5:30. I made her favorite - ghoulash and cornbread. We had a nice dinner. I helped myself to about half of the gift from Roger Clemens. Hit the shower. Kissed my daughter goodbye and headed downtown to the house Bob Wills built.

Let me lay the groundwork for why I was a bit hesitant in going.

First the Cain's is downtown. While Tulsa is working hard to bring that area back, it is still a scary place.

Second, my last outing to see a Texas Country group was a huge disaster. While I knew some of the songs, and Jo knew a lot of the songs, most of the twenty-somethings there didn't even realize a band was on the stage. All the girls looked like Paris Hilton and the boys were well, boys. Pretty much the band rocked, the audience sucked.

Third, I was on my own for this venture. If I were to try to get to the stage and some bimbo didn't want me there, who would have my back?

Fourth and most important, the last couple times we have seen Jason he was "Alien" or "Pod" Jason. We knew it was him if we closed our eyes and just listened. But if we watched, well the oddest things were happening on stage.

Last night I fell in love with Jason Boland all over again. He really rocked. While he is no longer the Jason Boland I have long loved he is a new JB that I really love. (He can eat crackers in my bed anytime, so to speak.)

The old Boland walked up to the mic and started singing and just stood there the whole set. He would drink the occasional shot of jager and chase it with Bud Light. Almost always had a cigarette. He was solemn, no smiles from this brooding man. I fell head-over-heals for him. His voice and songs were unmatched and true country.

New Boland waltzes to the mic and confidently belts out a song you would swear he had written. He is halfway thru it before you realize it's actually a song you know from Waylon! No cigarette now and he sips from a bottle of water. His voice is still classic Boland. No others can replicate that. You swear that Waylon song was actually Boland's all along. Yes, ladies he is THAT good. He has also begun talking to the audience. He chats with the band members - only Roger and Grady are still a bit stunned with this. He is having as much fun on the stage as we are in the pit.

Another wonderful thing about last night - the audience was there for Boland. He was able to stand back from the mic and allow us to sing a chorus or two of several songs. He told us while we sounded ok, we should probably try drinking some more. =D

There was only one fight that I saw. Hell, the band started just playing their instruments and watched as security broke it up. I think they played the chorus of Shot Full of Holes at least 5 times while watching security. Boland mocked the people fighting, told them to just have another beer and enjoy the music. His words not as colorful as his buddy Cody's, but still funny.

Anywho, if you ever get the chance to hang with the Stragglers - I strongly suggest it.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Most Uneventful Saturday...

Not much to report today. Thank Gan for small favors...

Woke up around 8:30 - Millie disovered I was awake around 8:45 - was forced to get up at 8:46. Unlike Toby and Me, when Millie wakes up - she is wired. It's like she has already drank 2 pots of coffee and is ready to go.

Was at the tanning salon by 9:30. Carlton thinks I'm nuts for baking myself. I tried to explain that even a turkey looks better after being cooked. He didn't buy it

Back home and laundry started, dishes washed, etc. no later than 10:30. A friend taught me how to do situps on my exercise ball, so todays pushups are complete. Shopping for the weekend is also complete. Discovered no baseball game on until 4pm - turned on Toby, Jason and the Beatles - picked up SK and went on down to Duma Key.

Side note: I've fired up the old laptop a couple times today. Delighted to find emails from my favorite cousin in AL. He asked me a question, thought I would see the reaction here: Quick S.King trivia: what "nom de plume" has he also written under? - I know my reply - what's yours?

Anyway we finally have a baseball game on the tube. I've left Duma Key for a little work on the quilt Nannie and I are working on. Waiting for Nicole to arrive. I've lured her to my house with the promise of Momma's Goulash!

Hopefully I'll get to see Jason in person tonight. Depends on the guilt trip laid on me by my very Green child.

Long days and pleasant nights

Family

I have what can easily be categorized as the typical dysfunctional American family.

When I was a child there were always plenty of family members around. My cousins and I, at least the Original 7, are literally stair-steps. Patty was born in 1964 - I came along a mere 13 months later in 1966 - Gary Don arrived in 1967 - Irene in 1968 - Larry, Jeannie and Michelle arrived by the early '70's. Aunt B. is only about 7 years older than me, so you see there were always people there.

Summers and weekends were at Nannie and Poppie's up thru high school. We attended church at Palestine at least once a month. Had Sunday lunch that Nannie cooked. Papa Dude and Granny May lived a couple miles away and we saw them almost as much. Not to mention Grandmama Hattie. Blessed is the only way I can describe my childhood.

We lived in McAlester - a full 30 minute drive one way from the Home Place - Russelville. Uncle Don moved his family to Western Oklahoma early in my childhood. I have fond memories of a couple of summers spent with him. He taught me how to get his permission before leaving a broken combine in the middle of a wheat field - oh and not to leave said wheat field with the bosses son who is my age and really cute. He taught me that life is short and live every day for what it is as long as Uncle Don approves. =)

Gary Don and I were kindred spirits at one time. He was always getting me into trouble. Or should I say he was always convincing me to do things we weren't supposed to do and then blaming Patty. The year he got a bb gun for Christmas the very first thing we did was shoot the neighbor's cows. I'm pretty sure we blamed Patty or at least tried. =) We were pretty close thru our childhood. We would lie out on the lawn or in the back of a pickup and just stare at the night sky and dream about our futures. He was going to be a famous football star - I was going to be an actress. He was the first person I talked to when I saw that my marriage wasn't going to make it. While others told me to suck it up and do whatever it took to stay married, Gary Don told me I had to do what was best for me. He backed me up when all hell broke loose. I truly loved that Gary Don. The one that was strong and supportive and knew right from wrong. The Gary Don that loved the family.

Then he divorced Debbie. Married Charlotte and moved to Houston. That is when the devil took hold of my cousin. She sucked his soul right out of him. He has never been the same. I miss him so much. He and I will never be able to have a civil conversation. I know this because of the pain and the guilt he has over how he and Charlotte treated our grandmother. He should have been the golden boy. He is Don's son. Uncle Don moved home to take care of his parents. He tended the land and became his mother's care-giver. Gary Don lived on the land for free. Took what he wanted when he wanted without even asking. Broke things and never took responsibilty. The last straw that broke my grandmother's heart was when he called the sheriff to report Uncle Wayne had stolen something. Turns out alleged "stolen" goods belonged to Nannie.

At one time I had Gary Don and Vernon. To me neither could do wrong. They were equally wonderful and perfect. Well, Gary Don did the ultimate in bad karma collecting in how he treated Nannie. Vernon has just fallen off the face of the Earth. If anyone out there runs into a Vernon E Frisbee that is 43 and looks like me - tell him to call.

Mayhap this is the reason I'm so thrilled about my cousin from the Southwest waltzing back into my life.

Family is family. Blood is thicker than water. But when you sleep with the devil herself, well, even family may not be able to save you.

I can sleep well, my spirit is at ease with the time I spent with my grandparents while they were on Earth.

Before I go I have one request - I love messages posted - Especially like the ones that have the guts to give me their name, ye kennit, Charlotte?

- see ya along the beam...

Meet the Neighbors...

Yesterday after work, I noticed that three of my neighbors were hanging out on the corner by my house.

So I walked over to chat and snap a couple of pictures.

When they were hanging out at the station, they were rather shy. You talked to them and they would take off running.

To my surprise when they noticed me taking pictures - they came over to say hey!

I can't wait for Hayden and Sinclaire to visit. We can feed them carrots.

Long Days and Pleasant Nights...

Clint Needs a Date...

Clint is our 4pm Meteorologist.

Today we learned that the bimbo from Oklahoma that was on the Bachelor lives in Oklahoma City, but grew up in Bartlesville. Let me just add at this time that she wasn't born in Oklahoma so technically we don't have to claim her.

Anyway, another anchor pointed out to Clint that they both grew up in Bartlesville. So he decided to try to look her up.

I'm panicked over this. Clint is a very innocent, unassuming young man. True, he needs a good woman. But that opera singing, beer biting, bimbo in OKC is NOT the woman for him.

Clint needs a tall blonde fun-loving woman that cooks, sews, and likes kids. He is easy to get along with unless you tell him that OU is better than OSU. Oh yeah said woman also needs to love ORANGE. A working knowledge of Woody Guthrie songs is a plus.

I'm working on a form for all interested parties to complete. I have met his mother and am pretty sure I can find the perfect woman for him to take home for dinner. Frank, I'm assuming, will help me in the process of elimination.

One more thing, those of you that know Nicole, Clint needs the exact opposite of her. Just saying their first and only meeting wasn't exactly fireworks. Well, there were fireworks but not the kind that are considered good.

If you're interested give a shout!

PS: Don't tell Clint that we're trying to help him. He is a bit bashful.

It's Finally Here...

Major League Baseball 2008 season began at around 3am today. The BoSox won the first game somewhere in Japan. And honestly, I forgot who they played. I only saw the 10th inning. And what an inning it was! Everyone knows I don't like the AL. But I do like the BoSox. Probably because they really kick ass when they are in the Bronx.

Anywho, we are just 6 days away from Opening Day in St. Louis. This season will be interesting for me. I've promised myself to pay more attention to the Rockies. Especially since I already know most of their team. And I've promised my cousin that I'll pay attention to the DBacks this year. He's still trying to convince me they are a real MLB team. Not sure if I'm there yet. If they make it to the play-offs we'll see how much my favorite cousin loves me. (hint & wink)

My BFFrank is trying to convince me to turn Dodger Blue. But, no matter what, even with Piazza there last season and knowing that's where he began, I can't go there. The Dodgers are my sworn enemy. They are the only NL team that challenged my Big Red Machine in the 70's and early 80's. Once you've fought that battle, well it's tough to move on. Also, they've added Joe Torre as their Manager this year. Talk about nemesis. Joe is arguably in the top 10 all-time greatest managers to ever live. This year he will really be put to the test. He doesn't have Steinbrenner's wallet buying him the best players for this team. They'll be interesting to watch, but I still won't be pulling for them, well, unless they make it to the World Series. =)

LaRussa has his job cut out for him this year as well. The team no longer has the leaders of the past decade. Rolen is now in Detroit. Matheny left 2 years ago. Headed West, I think. And other key players opted out. From what I saw during Spring Training this is a good group of men. If we can get our pitchers well and keep them off the DL, we should be contenders for at least a Wild Card.

With Kara in St. Louis and Jeff in Tucson, Jo may not have to go to a baseball game this year. Or I might say, I might not have to watch the Rangers play this year. She chose her favorite baseball team the same way she chose her favorite football team. I like the science behind her choices, just not the final choice in baseball. In my opinion, no team in Texas has figured out how to manage a winning baseball team. It's not for lack of talent on the players fault either.

Hope you have enjoyed this commentary on Baseball according to Tammie. Grab an ice cold beer, sit back and enjoy the season.

Long days and pleasant nights.

BFF Clone?

Is it possible to clone one's BFFrank?

I wish I could. Because he is the best friend a girl could have. Let me 'splain...

Last Friday I told him that I had bought a new lawnmower. Well his mind immediately figured out how to save me some money and make his wonderful mom a buck at the same time. Not to mention I had the pleasure of meeting this absolutely lovely person. (ok, she gave me a compliment so now she is one of my favorite people - I'm blue...)

But it goes further than just the lawnmower issue. He gave me a valentine card and an Easter present. Simply because he says that I should be treated like the special angel that I am. And he is giving me these gifts until someone takes his place. Of course he is doing this with Teri's knowledge.

He and I are going to Rocklahoma together. He has promised me that he is going to find the "right man" for me. All I have to do is hang out with him and he will introduce me to all these wonderful men. Ok, Frank has never been to Rocklahoma, and doesn't understand the laughter when he tells me that there will be men there for me. Those of you that remember seeing my pics from Rocklahoma will understand.

I'm also sure that his promise to introduce me to Mike Piazza will happen. He says that since they are both Italian, that means they are "blood" and our meeting is "in the bag." Of course it is up to me to convince Piazza that he is madly in love with me. I'm sure that won't be too difficult. ;-)

And, he also says that Nicole really should appreciate me a LOT more. (ok, I threw that one in there on my own, but I'm sure he would say it, and she would care.)

Anywho, in my opinion - everyone should have a BFFrank! They're awesome!

Long days and pleasant nights.

Stuff White People Like

In my thoughts today about what I should blog about. I was thinking Duma Key. You see, I've actually made it all the way to Duma Key and have now met some interesting characters. If I blog about this, I can't figure out how to involve Frank or Jeff in the entry. So that's out.

Then I thought about blogging about the fact that Frank saved me some money by selling me his mom's lawnmower. But that's just boring, even though his mom is quite nice and funny. And, how am I going to get Jeff into a conversation about Frank? So that's out.

Then this morning while reading thru the news sites that I look at for, you know, news, I found this blog: http://stuffwhitepeoplelike.wordpress.com/

Frank and Jeff are both white boys - so there ya go.

Ok, so this white people blog is all about what middle class, liberal, white people like. It has become so popular that the guy now has a book deal. The title caught my attention. Then the people it caters too - while I'm not exactly middle class - I'm getting there. So, I followed the link. I'll be darned if it doesn't have most of the things I like listed. Well, I really don't like soccer and don't even pretend to like it. Even though Jeff says that is the best way for me to meet a man. Sorry, just can't do it.

I also have gay, black, hispanic and texan friends. So that takes care of that category. I've given dinner parties and actually enjoy them. I can't believe how white I'm discovering I am.

Anyway, have a nice day...

Long days and pleasant nights.

Happy Freakin Easter

I totally planned to go to church this morning. It's Easter and Padre Bob is the priest at the church in Sapulpa. Fr. Bob is probably my favorite all time priest. Fr. Rick is almost there, but he is more of a friend. As Nicole pointed out, once you've seen a man in shorts and a t-shirt while helping clean his pool, well, "priest" isn't exactly how you think of him.

Fr. Bob is the priest that walked me thru catechism classes and then confirmed me. He taught me to be a lay reader and encouraged me to become a lay preacher. He is also the not-so-wise man that placed me as Sunday School Director. There are some fun stories in that period. He also taught me that while a priest has the ability to grant absolution, it is given at the discretion of the priest. Moral to that story, always invite Padre when enjoying a bottle of his favorite wine.

Why didn't I make it to church? Well, a "friend" called me at 24:30 this morning. We had a fun time talking, at least I had a fun time listening to my "friend" talk. It took some training, but this person has finally figured out the "drunk" is the one that is supposed to do the "drunk dialling." I'm told that I'm now on this "drunk dial" list. That will be interesting. =)

Then I totally forgot to set my alarm clock. The tv no longer wakes me. And my reliable Millie clock has started enjoying sleeping until 10am. Needless to say, I didn't make it to church. Hopefully, next week I will.

This is Easter morning. I remember Easter as always being warm. Well, it isn't today. It is freakin cold. So, the lawn may not get mowed today. I might just go to Duma Key. I've been as far into Mejis as I can go until Jeff K. shows up with the next issue.

Happy Easter!

Things I've Learned...

When the whole state is on Spring Break, work sucks.

Uncle NT is a very funny man. He has a wonderful sense of humor.

The Detroit Tigers are a team I should watch - Although they are officially in the AL all their players are from the NL. Namely - Scott Rolen.

The pillows are on my bed for Toby and Millie's benefit.

An an-tet with the dinh is quite interesting. If ye ken-it

Some people should never under any circumstances be allowed to travel alone. In the event that they do, my phone number should be erased from all memory.

Certain toys are only for use inside. Not sure if I agree with this, but it's what I'm told.

The only "sport" worth watching is Baseball.

When renting an Easter Bunny suit, always try it on before leaving the store. Otherwise someone might have very embarrassing pictures of you...

More later. I'm going to go read some more...

Long days and pleasant nights to ye.

Hawaiian Dreams...

Nicole sent these pictures to her dad and me just now.

My initial reaction was tears. I still see Nicole as that little baby that I had no clue how to take care of. She wasn't even home 24 hours when she rolled off the couch the first time.

Her first taste of whiskey came in her bottle during teething. You see Mom told me to soak her gums in whiskey to relieve the pain. I thought she meant put a shot of whiskey in the baby's bottle. It worked - she slept all night.

Then there were the endless dance lessons and recitals and competitions. The piano lessons that she hated. The softball games. She is still that little girl carrying the candles down the aisle as an acolyte.

Little did we know that her love for the saxophone would lead her to meeting the love of her life.

Throughout junior high and high school Nicole and Ryan became best friends. Their relationship has survived her student council dictatorship, her reign as Miss Pryor and even the fact that she is running the dorms at OU.

Nicole and Ryan are stabling forces for each other. This team will go far in life.

The only sadness in this story is that Nannie had promised to dance at their wedding. Well, Nannie, our little Nicole is marrying her prince. I know you are smiling.

Long days and pleasant nights...

Congrats Nicole

Nicole and Ryan have been planning this Maui vacation for several months. In fact Nicole has been telling Ryan for several months that Maui would be the absolute best place for him to propose. She even told several people that if he didn't propose in Maui, he probably wouldn't make it back to Oklahoma.

Now my baby girl is an engaged young woman.

I'm not exactly sure how to handle this. It's not like it's a surprise, it's not. It's not even like I don't know Ryan. He has been hanging around my house for the last 8 years or so. He has grown into a wonderful young man. He takes care of Nicole and really adores her.

Now to me. Because this is TammieLand. =)

I hope I make a good mother-in-law. I've had limited experience to draw from.

My mom cooks for Jimmy. Nannie always made daddy's favorite foods when we visited. So, maybe I should start cooking.

Anyway... there will be updates to this whole new phase of our lives.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Put a Bitch in the White House

Yesterday we ran a story on a dog that has been made the "honorary" mayor of a small town in Kentucky.

Well, Millie just happened to be watching the news. She loves watching Mark and Frank. They are two of her favorites. Anywho. She decided that since this hound is the Mayor, she wants to be the President. We talked it thru and Mark has agreed to be her campaign manager. She is hoping that Frank will do some appearances for her to raise some funds.

Mark was the one that came up with the official campaign slogan: "Put a Bitch in the White House". She will be the first multi-color female in the White House.

Long days and pleasant nights.

New to Me Artist

I was doing my usual stroll over to Straggler country today. I must admit haven't been there in a couple of days. To my surprise and total pleasure, they have announced a joint concert tour for April and May.

From the Stragglers: "Jason Boland and Aaron Watson, two of Texas’ hottest touring acts, announced this week that they will be joining forces for fifteen shows in April and May. Both acts have earned their reputations as some of the hardest working acts in Country music. Both artists keep up a tour schedule regularly performing in excess of 200 shows a year to sell out crowds. This is the first time in recent history that two “marquee” Texas headliners have hooked up for a full-blown tour spanning the course of any significant amount of time."

I don't recall ever hearing of Aaron Watson. So my first reaction was to ask Jo if "we" like his music. Then I thought, that's crazy, just google him and find out for yourself. So I did and I do! This fella is as country as Boland. Coming from me, you know that's pretty damn country. I can see myself two-stepping and toe tapping to this music. And Aaron isn't too hard on the eyes either. Can't wait to see his show. You can hear his music on his MySpace page. http://www.myspace.com/aaronwatson

Other good news from my Boys from Oklahoma... they are scheduled to release the new cd Labor day. You can bet I'll have mine on order the first day possible.

Rant - Read at Your Own Risk...

There are 7 Deadly Sins: Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Wrath, Envy, Pride - the 7 Deadly Sins as handed down centuries ago by the Roman Catholic church. The mainstay of the "7" was handed down by Pope Gregory the Great during the 6th century.

There are 10 Commandments (paraphrased): You shall have no other gods before Me; No graven images; you shall not take the name of the Lord in vain; Remember the Sabbath; Honor your father and mother; Do not murder; Do not commit adultry; Do not steal; Do not lie; Do not covet.

A wise priest once said we tend to forget that there are more than 3 commandments. The last few days watching any television has driven me nuts.

The newest Papal addition has decided that we need seven more deadly sins to worry about. All the press seems to care about is one sin - adultry. While I don't condone this, I also don't think that the fact that the governor of NY having sex with call girls calls for a 24/7 media blitz. Let the man resign in humiliation and move on. We don't need to be reminded of all the politicians that have ever been caught cheating. We don't need to be reminded that Hillary Clinton stood by her husband and forgave him and worked it out.

There is no shame in loving the man you married. There is no shame in saying you want to stay with him and work it out privately. I personally admire Mrs. Clinton for doing just that. The President says he spent many nights sleeping on the couch in the White House. Good for you Hillary!

Now, I do understand that the NY Governor allegedly spent $80,000 on the prostitution service over a period of 10 years. If that was public money, get him for that. That is a sin for the court to deal with. I don't understand why Republicans are so fast at calling for impeachment when a man is caught with his zipper down. The worse thing you can do to the man is let his wife take care of it.

Let's get back to what is important: Global warming, every nation in the world with the exception of maybe Belgium hates us, the economy is in the tanker, people are loosing their homes, Roger Clemens did steroids. That should be enough to keep the news people at CNN busy.

Getting off my Liberal Soap Box now...

long days and pleasant nights.

Awesome Boss...

Late yesterday afternoon, I was at my desk minding my own business when Carlton walked by and said "what did you do today that made me happy?" It caught me off-guard so my reply was a very blunt "What?" Followed him in his office and he asked the question again.

I have never been asked that question before. And honestly couldn't think of a darn thing I had done that would make him particularly happy. So I replied that I had actually come to work. According to Carlton that is expected and doesn't necessarily make him happy. I honestly couldn't think of anything. It was a normal day. Monday morning payroll stuff. Regular Monday afternoon meetings. Nothing out-of-the-ordinary.

So this morning, I take a stack of bills in his office to be signed off. First bill was for pagers. I pointed out that in the last 3 months I have shaved over $200 a month from that bill. He announced that I had made him happy! Well being Blue - you know how that made me feel. So then he discovered that I had arranged to meet with Frank this afternoon to learn what some of the Weather statements actually mean. Again, I'm told he is happy.

When the third "I'm happy" rolled around, I asked for a pay raise. Turns out he was "happy" that I was bold enough to ask. But then laughed. Darn.

But, I'm BLUE and he told me 4 different times that I made him happy, so that makes me extremely happy.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Another Week

Time flys so fast. Seems like just yesterday I was in high school.

Just wanted to let everyone know that the plan for how I look during the Summer Concert series is well ahead of schedule. The Calf Fry ticket is already purchased. Boland will be in Tulsa on the 29th. Life is good.

The tanning has begun.

The beer and crackers diet is really beginning to pay off. Jeff seems to think that isn't healthy, but if it works...

The dachshunds and I are beginning to really get the hang of dancing with Richard Simmons.

So, when Frank comes thru with his promise of introducing me to Mike Piazza, I'll be ready. The plan is that Mikey will immediately fall in love with me. Marry me. Give me his name and money. I stay in Tulsa and still work with Frank. Hayden would never speak to me again if I left this job.

OK, back to reality...
Long days and pleasant nights.

Last Day Before Daylight Savings

Thank Gan this is our last day in the dark!

This morning I woke to the normal "I'm going to starve to death if you don't feed me NOW" attack by Millie. Put on the oatmeal water to boil, fed the pups, put on a pot of coffee.

Life was starting out to be the average Saturday. Until the Jehovah's Witnesses tried to save me. That got me to moving. You see I told them that I was in the process of getting ready for work. So now I feel the obligation to at least do something, just in case they really are the new chosen people. Or they have surveillance of my house going and plan to come back and ask why I didn't tell the exact truth. According to CNN this morning water-boarding is still legal and W. is going to make sure it stays legal. You never know what lengths the JW's will go to save an Episcopalian from herself.

So for all of you that really want to know. Yes, Steve that is you. I have now showered, drank a couple cups of coffee and my day has begun. It will be too exciting - post office visit, tanning, brush removal and if I have time, I might even wash some laundry!

How many of you are jealous of my life?

long days and pleasant nights...

Millie's New Toy

I had a tough time sleeping last night. Finally took a pill about 12:30. (The right pill, not one that makes me see attacking bullfrogs.) When I woke this morning I found a water bottle beside me.

Millie has a need to sleep with a toy. Usually it is one of the soft cuddly toys. Last night I guess she needed a bottle. That's my girl!

Anyway, it's already started off as a not so fun day here in Tulsa town. The forecast is saying anywhere from 2" to 20" of snow by noon tomorrow. Sales has already been to my desk 3 times complaining about things that are not in my control. I've been called to the bosses office twice.

I wanna go back to bed!!!!

long days and pleasant nights...

Elections

So, I'm the official "Go to the Election Board" person at our station. It used to be fun. Until the night of Feb. 5, 2008. That was probably the funnest election night I've been to since Brad won the District 2 seat. That was a blast. That's the first time Brad hugged me. Seriously, if any of you see him, let him know I'm still willing to buy a beret and blue dress to get him in the White House.

Anyway, the first fun time going to the Tulsa Election Board was the night of the river vote. I met Jason that night. He is ok looking, smart and our politics match. He asked for my number, then never called. Bastard. So the next time I went to the ol' election board - Nicole went with me. That was Feb. 5. We had a blast, Nicole, Jason and me. He again asked for my number - said he had a scoop on a really good story. This time I only wrote down my work number. Not going to be fooled again. He probably has a couple girlfriends somewhere. Anyway, 2 days later he called my cell phone. Bastard had my number all this time and didn't call. I wanted to be upset, but really couldn't - after all I have a landlord for odd jobs around the house and a really nice rabbit for anything else. Turns out his scoop was a lead story two nights in a row. Thanks Jason. And guess what, while we talked several times a day for about 3 days, he hasn't called since. That's ok too - he probably can't cuddle anywhere near the quality of Roger Clemens.

I half expected to see him last night. But instead I was forced to talk to Barbie and some chick that has only lived in Tulsa a month. Both are from competing stations so conversation was kept to a minimum.

That's all for now, I'm off to the staff lunch of tacos.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Clemens vs Brooks

Ok, Roger, I was so backing you for so long. I really want to believe that you did not do steroids. I had also decided that it really didn't matter. You were one of the best pitchers the game has seen. But while searching for a picture of you today I came across this story.

Sorry Rog, but I can no longer stand back and let you throw people under the bus. If you want to throw your wife under the bus that's one thing, she has the option of making your ass sleep on the couch. But don't mess with anyone from Oklahoma.

We don't smoke marijuana at the courthouse and we certainly don't attend steroid parties with baseball players in New York City!

Here's the article I'm talking about:

Clemens Claims It Was Garth Brooks At The Canseco Party
By Buster Gunning

Roger Clemens has been under intense pressure to come clean in regards to the steroid allegations mentioned in the now infamous Mitchell Report. The latest accusation has Mr. Clemens mingling at a Jose Canseco celebration back in 2008 and allegedly inquiring to the brother of Ozzie Canseco on how to obtain “performance enhancing drugs.

In his latest statement, Clemens denies being at the party and claims the video footage portraying him at the shindig was actually country music legend Garth Brooks.

Taken from Roger Clemens latest press release: “I never asked Jose Canseco how to acquire performance enhancing drugs because I was never at his party. I reviewed the videotaped evidence against me and I can prove that I was never at that party to begin with.

“For starters, I don’t wear my cowboy hat in public. Second, and you can ask anybody who is close to me, I have never played an impromptu version of ‘Dixie Chicken’ not even after ingesting multiple ecstasy tablets have I dared attempt such a feat in public.”

Mr. Clemens' chief lawyer Rusty Hardin explained that it is the opinion of Clemens and his judicial council that the man the authorities have identified as the condemned pitcher is actually country music hero Garth Brooks.

According to Hardin: "It is widely know within country music circles that singer Garth Brooks has been taking steroids since the early-nineties. In fact, if you listen to the lyrics ‘The Thunder Rolls’ he uses thunder rolling as a metaphor for shooting up. This following passage taken from the album ‘No Fences’ explains Mr. Brooks reaction to getting caught shooting up in the bathroom. As you can plainly see, even after his secret was revealed, Mr. Brooks was not deterred in any way and continued his injection.”

She rushes out to hold him
Thankful he's alive
But on the wind and rain
A strange new perfume blows
And the lightnin' flashes in her eyes
And he knows that she knows
And the thunder rolls
And the thunder rolls
(Buster Gunning is well aware that waiting is not spelled “waitin” and lightening is not spelled “lightnin’ and apologizes for any confusion this may have created).

Garth Brooks was unavailable for comment, however sources close to the country music icon have reported him livid with the accusations and some rumors have him challenging Mr. Clemens to a good old fashioned duel to the death. No weapons.

Life Back to Normal...Sorta

What a pleasant surprise for me - Jeff and Steve were forced by Gan - literallly - to spend another night in Tulsa.

We had our last supper so to speak. The palavar was much fun. I'll miss those Dellinger boys. They were loads of fun to hang out with. Even though this visit we weren't running around the countryside barefoot and fancy free. I'm hoping we really bonded and will keep in touch - hint to the D-Boys....

Steve is still on vacation. He and his momma are in Austin visiting relatives. Jeff is back in Tucson. Sadly watching baseball games without me. =( I convinced him to stream the games live to me over the computer. Only a couple glitches in the plan - he doesn't have a camera, laptop or service that could handle it. He's resourceful surely he'll figure out how to do it by game time tomorrow.

Anywho, thanks for the memories guys. Next time we have the family circle and are asked to share a "favorite" memory, I'll have a new pool to grab from. Steve, you might want to begin paying me to forget things. lol

long days and pleasant nights to ye...

Dellinger Weekend Wrap!

Ok, I've updated you a bit during the weekend. Jo is considering either giving up the BFFJo job or finding me some serious drugs. I will have pictures as soon as Jeff gets back to Tucson and more when Steve arrives in Birmingham. I forgot to take my camera for a big part of the weekend activities.

Saturday was the day we all met at the church, just the family, no preaching at this time. I decided to walk out to the place Nannie is resting. Jeff went along. I would like to say how much I appreciated that decision by him, but I have no words to express it. He was what I've needed these last few months and didn't realize it. We talked for a very long time about the deaths of both his grandma and mine. He allowed me to cry and understood the need. Thanks for the shoulder.

Then the family really began arriving. One by one they made their way to the graves marked Dellinger. Even Nicole made it to the grave before she even said hello to people. The best part of that afternoon (other than my time with Jeff and Nannie) was when Uncle NT had everyone sit in a circle and give a favorite memory. What fun. We learned that Cleo skipped school one day, came back a week later - married. She was 14 Uncle Willis was 24. She says she would do it again. Uncle NT remembers Papa Dude as being sad that whole week, Aunt Cleo swears it was anger instead. Let me note that she and Willis were married 54 years before he died.

Today was actual church day. Steve went for Sunday school, breakfast with the family first. Jeff and I arrived right about the last hymn before the collection plate went around. It was nice to hear and see Uncle NT behind the pulpit again. It's been too long. The funniest part of today's events is the fact that the people that have watched me grow up thought I was Jeff's wife and this is my first visit. (Let's do a group eye roll at this point) They still don't know my name, but when I told them I'm Mildred's grandaughter, they remembered I work at Channel 8. OY!

When we left the church we stopped by Papa Dude's old house. Boy has it changed. It still looks the same on the outside but... the barn is gone, the garden is grown over, the chicken house is gone, most of the woods are now cleared. It was good times.

The weekend is over. It was so much fun. Reconnecting with Steve and Jeff were worth everything. Hopefully we'll stay in touch for years to come. In other words, don't wait 25 years to call me!

Long days and pleasant nights.

When will the pain stop?

I have the day to myself so this morning I decided to go to the cemetery. My last visit was two days before Christmas. The flowers I left were still there. Still looked ok. Of course I brought more. This time lots of pink. I put them in the container by her name. Along with the mums that someone else had left. The next thing I know I'm curled up in a fetal position crying like a baby. So I fully laid down right there with only God, me and my dead grandparents. It felt like I was reliving Nov. 4 all over again. NT and Joy are here and we won't be going to Nannie's house. NT is here and she won't be the loudest voice singing Sunday morning. NT is here and she won't be smiling bigger than she has since his last visit.

I made it back to Patty's and Daddy called. I picked up Zentner about 12:30. He and I have played for awhile. I just put him down for a nap.

Gotta go clean the dishes and pull myself back together. Dinner with the family is at 6:30. Uncle NT wants catfish.

Long days and pleasant nights...

Fun with Friends

The wait is over. Yesterday around 3pm CST Steve and I reintroduced ourselves and the fun began.

I remember Steve as a thoughtful much older and wiser person than myself. He was always more serious than the younguns such as me. Oh my has he changed. He seems to be more blue now. Much like me, yet nothing like me. He was instantly my BFC you might say. We spent the next few hours catching up on each others lives over the last couple of decades. He has had an interesting life. He has traveled the world. Met exotic people. Worked with the wisest this universe has to offer. To make up for my much more humble life, I took him to the station. The hope was that the mere introduction to my BFFrank would make me look at least comparably cool to Steve. It almost worked.

By the time the rest of the family arrived, Steve and I were actually exchanging inside jokes that only the two of us understood. We were planning visits to Birmingham. I love that town. I had already fallen in love with Chloe - Steve's wonderful puppy. How was I to know that I was about to totally break this wonderful man's spirit?

Uncle NT and Aunt Joy were the first to arrive after Steve. They have lived in Central America since before time began or the early 1960's if you're keeping track. In fact that's where they raised the two most wonderful Dellinger Men on Earth. (feel free to place on your mud waders at any time) Jeff was the last to arrive. He actually arrived twice. Steve chased down another man thinking it was his brother. Fortunately the man only gave Steve an odd look. Once we found the correct Jeff, the next phase of fun began.



I have the most childhood memories of Jeff and Steve and Patty and me. Turns out it takes all four of our memories to get an accurate memory. Anyone thinking about the killer Clown yet? Anywho. While Steve lives in a town that I love and also adores dogs, Jeff has other similarities with my character. Jeff loves baseball. Manages to make his work schedule around major league games. He has been married and divorced. Has children. Dislikes children for all the same reasons I have. (Nicole can give them to you if you really need to ask) Well, you get the point. Somehow after all these years, we still have a lot of similarities. Odd don't you think? Odd and wonderful, I think. I'm already hoping a trip to Tucson can be arranged - around a baseball game of course.


I'll just ask, aren't we adorable? How can we all be this damn adorable and not one drop of DNA matching in the trio? We had a wonderful evening - gathered in Uncle NT and Aunt Joy's room for some family discussion. Then said goodnight to them. The three of us hung out for a while after that. Today we made the trek "home." We will spend the next three days reconnecting with the rest of the extended family. Hopefully we'll be able to avoid the "evil" cousins.

That's all I'm really allowed to say at this time. We done some mighty powerful bonding and I truly hope it sticks. Hoping this begins the long journey to the Tower of a new KaTet.

Long Days and Very Pleasant Nights.

The Dellinger's are coming!

You know that one person in your family that moves away at an early age and only visits every few years? The one that everyone thinks practically walks on water because all his/her adult faults aren't seen by the family. This person never misses calling Nannie on her birthday. Or always shows up for Christmas. And if she can't well, she's very busy and extremely upset by not being able to "come home." When this person is scheduled to pay a visit, the floors are shined, linens changed, good china polished. Damn some may even bathe for the occasion!

Well, just that person is Coming Home this weekend. He has been in Belize since the early 1960's. He wasn't able to make it home for Nannie's funeral. He has been dealing with the loss of Nannie, Uncle Fred and Cecil virtually alone. No family other than Aunt Joy there with him. So he and I have been emailing back and forth since October. He began talking about a visit in '08. To my surprise the date became Late February. The more we talked, the more excited we both became. We were also talking to the family members closest to us. So what began as a "wish" to get together has turned into a full blown family reunion - of sorts.

Both Uncle NT and Aunt Joy are coming. So are their sons - Steve and Jeff. You have no idea how exciting this is. I have literally changed the linens and washed the floors!

Patty and I have such fond memories of all their trips home. Steve and Patty would run one way while Jeff and I would go another then be thrilled when we beat them the to final destination.

Steve arrives first. I'll get to spend a few hours with him before the rest of the family make it Tulsa. He now lives in Birmingham, Alabama. OMG one of my favorite places on Earth. I really see road trips in the future. I'm sure it isn't far from Atlanta, or at least I remember it kinda close. Most of you know I really don't care for Turner Stadium. But at least the Braves are a real team and my "boys" play there on occasion. Besides a quarter of the fun of a baseball game is the company you are in!

Anywho, I'll be posting lots of pictures.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Weekend Wrap & Futures

Jo once told me one of my finer qualities is that I know when I'm not in the mood to party and stay home, thus enabling the others in our crew to have fun. Well, I thought I was in the mood to party Saturday night. Even drank enough damn Captain Morgan to ensure a real party mood. And possibly a coma.

But once we were inside the Wormy Dog and up at the stage, well the party mood became a mood of uhm disbelief and old age. The band - Reckless Kelly really rocked. Too bad no one noticed other than us and a handful of others. In fact the side show were the Paris Hilton wanna-bee's dancing on the bar and the boy (all of 12) literally raping his girlfriend front stage-center. I abandonced Jo about mid-way thru the set to go the the girl's room. Normally I would've pushed and shoved my way back to her. I mean, Willie needed my support and he performs better knowing I'm there. Anywho, it just didn't seem worth it. After all, I wasn't the one with a zealous boyfriend. So I stayed near stage left. And actually by some kids that really were fans. I'm thinking that is the fastest we have exited a concert event. Fun yet weird night.

Nicole - Your generation is extremely scary.

On to more fun topics - This is the week my family from the extreme south show up! More on that later. I still have to eat lunch, round of the dauchshunds and mozie back to work.

Long days and pleasant nights.

What a Summer It Will Be

Last weekend of April kicks off the Summer of Concerts tour that Jo and I will be embarking on.

First up will be the Calf Fry where all our favorite Texas Country type people will be performing. In case you don't know - Jason Boland, Cross Canadian Ragweed, Pat Green and various others.

Memorial weekend will find me in Eufaula with Patty and Jimmy at the 2nd Annual whatever the hell they are calling it - Jason Boland and Cross Canadian Ragweed. Last Memorial Day weekend was the first ever concert at the new amphitheater and I think the folks hosting the event was surprised at the totally full concert area. We braved mud up to our knees to see these guys and weren't dissappointed. This year they've added JB and the Stragglers. I'm getting my tickets early. This was also Jimmy and Patty's introduction to Texas Country. Of course they have never been to a Boland concert. Patty, don't worry when I dissappear - I can't be in the same area as JB and not be at the stage.

Next up - Country Fever. The two nights I'm terribly excited about are Friday - Texas Country night and Sunday - Willie. Don't really need to say more than that. I've already been approved vacation for Friday and Monday. I plan to enjoy every freakin' minute of Willie.

Then, yesterday I found out that Willie is indeed having his picnic this year. Hot Dog! And it's in San Antonio. Can you say ROAD TRIP? Missy, you're gonna love being single with us!

Long days and pleasant nights.

Gotta be a Guy thing...

I was sooooo excited to get to watch Knight Rider last night. I absolutely loved that show when I was a young girl.

I can't remember if I was in love with David Hasselhoff. I don't remember his pictures on my bedroom wall. Scott Baio and Leaf Garrett were there, but not so much DH.

Anywho, I really liked the show. I think that the Mustang is hot and KIT is still the most awesome thing on Earth!

I'm alone in my summary. It seems that there is a growing group of "men" that are refusing to watch the show. I couldn't understand why. I mean it is about a super-fantastic car for crying outloud. Turns out the type of car matters. Who knew it wasn't a Mustang in the original series? I didn't. Until today. I tried to plead the case for the show.

1) hot guy driving the car
2) hot girl in love with hot guy driving the car
3) AWESOME car with totally 22nd century features

I'm going to continue to work on this poll and see how things turn out. Guys get over the Mustang thing - your alternative is watching Rob Lowe. (also incredibly hot guy)

Long days and pleasant nights.

I almost forgot. Hot guy driving awesome car - not as hot as the Chief Meteorologist at Channel 8.

Weekend Update

Emme turned 1!

What a celebration that was - too bad I missed it. Laura planned a Breakfast Birthday party. I got up, fed the puppies, put on a pot of coffee, had plenty of time to get ready and over to the birthday bash. So I decided to lay down and wait for the coffee to brew. That wasn't a wise decision. I woke up around 11:30. The party was totally over. I had a frantic message from Laura. I called to let them know how horribly sorry I was for missing this monumentous occasion. But since Emme is only 1 who would really notice my absence? Well, the 5 year old did. She took the phone from her daddy and laid into me. I don't know if you've ever been told off by a 5 year-old, but I'm telling you by the time she finished, I felt all of 2 inches high.

I did get back in the good graces of Sinclaire. It only took spending 45 minutes in her room and talking Barbies and potions with her. I'm hoping for a nice weekend so that I can bring her to my new house and get some real quality time with her. I miss the little girl and she is growing up so fast. She's already picked out her husband. We aren't sure if Harry Potter will wait for her, though.

Emme gave me lots of hugs and kisses. She even cried everytime I tried to put her down. She isn't a bit spoiled.

Yesterday afternoon, I actually got some yard work completed. Would have accomplished more if my BFF had actually fixed my chainsaw. (I promised to mention him every day in my blog)

Long days and pleasant nights.

Sweatin to the Oldies

Yes, I'm old.
Yes, I'm working out with Richard Simmons.
Deal, Nicole!

The puppies even get into the action. Millie barks every time I clap. Toby runs and jumps when I jump. Then for the cool down - they both tackle me. It's all good.

The reason for this round of exercise is simple. I have to be totally hot for Jason, Pat and Kevin June 13. Stoney really doesn't care what I look like. If the stars align correctly and Barbara comes thru, Pat will be in my "house" that morning. I already have the groupies lined up for it.

Regina and I will be there as "Field Producers." She asked what that means. Basically a "Field Producer" fetches beer and stuff for Frank. It's a tough job.

Long days and pleasant nights - if Gan is willing.

Hearts Day

I must say I wasn't thrilled about Hearts Day. I am looking forward to Texas Day.

Anywho, my whole frame of mind changed when I arrived at work today. You see it has been 12 years since I last received a Valentine gift. I'm pretty sure that was just an obligatory thing anyway.

So when I saw TWO valentines on my desk, I was surprised. I was gleeful when they both had my name on them. One had an adorable giraffe on it proclaiming my cuteness, and a tootsie pop attached. The tootsie pop was quickly gobbled up. The other required an actual trip to a store and some time spent in the card dept. It is the first card I've ever received that has a mouse coming out of a cats nose. I LOVE IT!

So Happy Hearts Day and Thanks to my two secret Valentines.

Long Days and Pleaasant Nights.

Spring Training...

With less than a day left before pitchers and catchers have to report, looks like my team is brand-spankin new this year.

We still have a couple of recognizable names. But, for the most part this is a "start-up" team this year. Even La Russa isn't saying the championship word. He is saying they have a chance to win games, if they play correctly. Thing is, I was upset by the Cards allowing Matheny to leave a couple seasons ago. Turns out it really was the right decision, I just don't like change.

Molina is solid behind the plate. It is going to be odd without Rolen calling the shots from third. Eckstein and Edmonds are also gone. These guys are good, were great. About All-Star time last year I was beginning to think the Cards needed a change. Rolen, Eckstein and Edmonds had very powerful bats at one time. When players stay away from steroids, their bodies get older. New, younger blood in the clubhouse and on the field will be nice. Kinda goes with the new field. Also, I have another "favorite" team.

The Rockies were awesome last year. The most awesome aspect is that many of the players I had literally seen play in Tulsa. The best part of having a new team is that now I have two teams to cheer for. And when they play each other, I will be happy no matter who wins. That's the plan anyway.

Good Hair Day

I must say I had no idea what a good hair day it would be when I woke this morning. The day actually started kinda bad.


My oatmeal was actually nasty and after one bite, the dogs ate the rest. Then I was running late and almost missed getting Jo's Texas Day gift to her before she arrived at work. Ok, I was really hoping to see the glee and surprise on her face when she received the gift but turns out she was a bit under the weather and running late.


Then I made it to T's place just as she was wrapping up with the first client of the day and didn't have time to run out for coffee.

We had a blast, of course. I always get into a better mood when I'm with her. She is just too damn funny. About the time Momma and Patty dropped in, I realized I had my camera with me and I don't have a pic of T and me. So I had Patty snap a picture. Aren't we the cutest?



Mom and Patty and I had lunch at Chilli's. Joananna didn't join us. Mom was sad. Now I know it's because she was buying vampire protective stuff. Good luck with that Jo.


Once back at the station....



Sam Donaldson was there! Woo Hoo!!! I love Sam Donaldson. He was so gracious to overlook my very evident craziness. I'm going to hang this picture with my picture of JB and the Stragglers.



Long days and pleasant nights.

Chainsaw Tam

Yes, that's right, I have a chainsaw. And I have already broken it.

Ok, I know I wasn't supposed to use it until given explicit permission from Jo and Robbie. Who, to my surprise is actually concernced about me using a chainsaw. I didn't think Robbie could get concerned about anything other than being out of beer.

Anywho, Jo and Robbie, as promised (and directed) here is a picture of the chainsaw. It is really just a quasi chainsaw that attaches to a weedeater. I used it for a couple of hours this afternoon. Got a lot of stuff done and then broke the chain. Patty assures me that it is fixable. I might have to actually get help from a male friend. I wander what Robbie's doing?

In other weekend news: We celebrated Mom and Dad's 44th wedding anniversary. Patty and I were on our way in very casual clothing. Mom and Dad showed up in a suit and dress. We changed, Patty even made Jimmy clean up.

I have to be up at a terribly early time in the morning. So I'm off to Duma Key for awhile then to slumber land.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Super Nicole

Super Tuesday has come and gone. Boy what a fun night. We went "Big" with our coverage. Thirty people covered ninety precincts to get the results in from Tulsa County faster than the election board could get them to us. We had producers calling the counties in our viewing area for numbers as well. We weren't too worried about the Presidential numbers. We were pretty sure that ABC would call the race around 7pm, and they did. So we focussed on the local stuff.

Nicole went to the Tulsa County Election Board with me. I needed assistance getting the numbers to our website accurately. She was a huge help. Even adding entertainment for the evening to everyone in the media area.

This pic was taken on her cell phone. Sorry it's blurry, neither of us took it.

I'm thrilled that she is catching my political lust.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Texified?

Yep, you are seeing correctly...
Right there in the middle of my "bar" stuff. Small collection that it is... is a genuine Lone Star State, state of the art, plastic Texas Star drinking glass!
This in no way makes me a flip-flopper.
Let me 'splain.
I was in Walmart today. Which we all agree is Redneck Heaven. I'm shopping for stuff to organize our Chief Photographers storage bin. I might mention at this point that other than Jo, he is the only 100% die-hard Texan I have actually met in my lifetime. Anywho, while shopping, my eyes wondered to the clearance area. What happened to be there, you guessed it, genuine, Lone Star State, state-of-the-art plastic Texas Star drinking glasses. (They might actually be Texas Flag - what do I know, I'm still a disciple and don't have much of an attention span)
So naturally since they were on clearance and would surely be completely gone if I waited until my next trip to Walmart, I purchased two sets. That makes eight whole glasses. Then I decided to "surprise" Jo with the purchase. You know she has had such an awful life before this purchase.
I did manage to keep the purchase a "secret" all the way to the parking lot. That's a miracle for me.
So, next time you are at Jo's, ask to drink out of the "good" glassware.
Long days and pleasant nights.

Sunday Mornin Comin Down

What a difference a couple of days make in Oklahoma. My last blog was pictures of the snow storm last Thursday. We received a good 2 inches of the white stuff.

Today it is Sunday. No sign of the snowy wonderland that was here a mere 4 days ago. The puppies and I have been doing a little yard work. And I have even kept the back door open so that they can stay outside. You see the unwritten rule is that if I'm in the house and the door is closed - the puppies MUST be in the house. Just in case you don't know, that isn't my rule.

Anywho, I thought it was funny that while Toby loves being outside, he is afraid that I'll make him become an outside dachshund. So this is his idea of being outside without me. His is sitting on the back step looking in the door.

Now, I think I'll grab a beer and head out back and find my way to Duma Key. It's all good today. I'll be in the world of SK with TK and JB playing in the not so distant background.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Winter Wonderland - Again

This time the weather isn't bothering me. The streets are clear and no trees are collapsing.

So, Thankee Sai - Gan for the lovely precipitation.

Long days and pleasant nights

BFF John...

Dear Tammie,

Let me start by saying, "Thank you." You have stood with Elizabeth and me throughout this campaign. Your support has sustained us as we have traveled across this country.

Earlier today, I suspended my campaign for the Democratic nomination for the presidency. I made this announcement from where our journey began just over 12 months ago: New Orleans.

I began my presidential campaign in New Orleans to remind the country that all of us -- as citizens and as a government -- have a moral responsibility to each other, and what we do together matters.

Now, it's time for me to step aside so that history can blaze its path. We do not know who will take the final steps to the White House -- but what we do know is that our Democratic Party will make history. And, along the way, all of you who have been involved in this campaign and this movement for change and this cause, I am asking you to continue speaking out for those who have no voice, just as Elizabeth and I will continue to do. We need you.

Do not turn away from the great struggles before us. Do not give up on the causes that we have fought for. Do not walk away from what's possible, because it's time for all of us -- all of us together -- to make the two Americas one. We need you.

I hope you will take a few moments to listen to the video clip of my speech in New Orleans earlier this afternoon or to read it below. In the meantime, Elizabeth and my family join me in thanking all of you for your support and for working so hard on my behalf. We are truly blessed to have such friends.

Thank you.

John Edwards
January 30, 2008

Not a Eulogy

"It is time for me to step aside so that history can blaze its path," Edwards said in New Orleans. You don't know the depth of sadness I'm feeling. Not just for John and Elizabeth Edwards, but for our Nation.

My introduction to this man was the presidential debate held at OSU, way back in '02 or '03. Nicole and I both fell in love with him. He is so smart. In fact we predicted then that he was too smart to be elected President. We both thought then, as I think even now, he is the ONLY option for that office. I have a very strong feeling he isn't going away. He didn't after the '04 debacle and he won't after today's announcement.

However, Super Tuesday isn't here yet. I haven't paid much attention to the silly bickering between Clinton and Obama so who do I vote for?

Someone at the station suggested I vote for Huckabee. Well, sorry, he's not an option for me for several reasons. Right now the least being that he's a Southern Baptist Preacher. The primary reason I won't vote for him on Feb. 5, 2008 is that he "literally" isn't an option on my ballot.

If, like the voters in New Hamphire, I vote for the first name on the ballot - my vote will go to Hillary. The political pundits still think that's the only way she won NH. Now I suppose the only way she won Florida is because it didn't count. Floridians only vote when it doesn't count.

On the other hand if I vote the way that silly test says, Obama has my vote. I don't trust that gimmick. I'm pretty sure the Liberals have it rigged - Kucinich was my second favorite!

This is such a kerbunkle.

Stand-by as I try to get thru the next week and find a candidate I can honestly stand behind when I cast my vote.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Over the Weekend

Sorry this is late. I always think I can do the Weekend Review on Monday morning. But, no such luck. See it's already Wednesday and this is the Review:

The BIG story of the weekend...

Sinclaire is officially 5! It was a big week for her. She had a total of three parties. The best, of course, was the last one. It was Saturday night and was only family.

She was the recipient of the soooo many gifts she had no clue where to begin. The party began with pizza and wine. Well, soda for Sinclaire and cousins. Emme had her very first slice of pizza that night. She gummed the heck out of it. The grown-ups did an absolutely awesome job of eating annoyingly slow so that Sinclaire was forced to just look at that gifts and cake in a longing fashion. She wasn't even allowed to open the candy that was attached to the present Aunt Tammie brought. It was sooooo horrible.

I did want to take a moment to show you the cake. It was Sinclaire's design. You see it is a coiled rattlesnake. This is going to get her closer to her dream husband, Harry Potter. In addition to the rattlesnake cake, she received a "Spell Making Kit" so she can learn the appropriate potions to lure Harry into her trap. Of course the best gift of all was from Aunt Tammie. The Chia Pet!! Just what every girl needs. We won't tell her that Aunt Tammie managed to kill her Chia pig in one day. Who knew it would freeze to death if left in 30 degree temperature for several hours? Anywho, happy 5th Sinclaire. We'll do it all over for Emme's first next week.

In other weekend news: I had the privilege of puppy sitting Izzy. Sorry, didn't get pics. We had a great time walking all over midtown. I even found several new lofts that would be perfect for Nicole and Ryan to live in.

Millie and Toby watched several hours of the Dog Whisperer and I'm happy to report, Millie is doing well with the whole, Mommie is the Leader of the Pack idea. Well that is until last night. To calm her I tried the holding her down by the back of the neck. This is supposedly to make her submissive to me because that is how a dominant dog would hold her down. She evidently has forgotten that. She thought it meant, oh Mommie wants to wrestle. Toby was relieved because that meant she was leaving him alone. I guess we still have some work to do.

Long Days and Pleasant Nights!

My Little Helper

I couldn't find my wallet anywhere this morning. I had it at 4:45 when I went to the Station the first time. Then I took Kara to the airport. Can't remember if I had it then. But it was definately gone when I was ready to go back to the Station at 8:20 this morning.

I searched the house three times. Searched my office and car at least three times. Asked Millie if she had seen it. Well her reply was very prompt - she assumed since I couldn't go to work without my wallet - she brought me the tennis ball. Very important for me to receive the tennis ball.

I finally found the wallet. I was very efficient with my time this morning and managed to get two loads of clothes on the way to being completed. The wallet was in the washing machine.

long days and pleasant nights.

Cody Fix?

Ok, Over the last year or so I've become accustomed to Pat visiting me in my dreams. But come on, Cody? - please! He knows my loyalty is with his BFF Boland. I'm not complaining because you know, they are an awesome band. (Jo, get off the floor and finish reading) And he was kind enough to include Jo in the partying in my dream. But Boland wasn't there and I kept searching for him. So needless to say Jo had a blast in my dream and I was bewildered.

Here is my promise to you Cody. The next time I'm in the concert area while you are performing, I will pay attention. After all, you are The Boys from Oklahoma!

Long Days and Pleasant Nights to ye.

Winter Project

One of the things I picked up at Nannie's was a quilt block. Once home I noticed I actually had two blocks. On my birthday I was wondering around Hobby Lobby and saw two packages of those same blocks. Looking at the pattern, it seemed simple enough, so I bought both packages. Now I have three packages. I'm going to complete the quilt with the pattern she never finished. I'll also have two unique pillows. The blocks Nannie finished will be made into the pillows.

So, this is my "Winter Project."

One block down - 15 blocks to go!

Long days and pleasant nights to ye.

Don Woods?

I don't see it. No one in my family sees it. But, several people thought I brought Don Woods to the Holiday Party with me. So I started thinking...
What would it be like to be the daughter of Don Woods? That would be pretty cool. I mean a house full of Gusty's. Hayden's hole Weatherman Worshipping would make sense.
Hmm

Long days and pleasant nights to ye...

Sooner from Birth

Even though I don't understand the Cult of OU, they have claimed my daughter. So, I'm more than happy to aid in Avery's inclusion into the cult.

Patty made a "one-of-a-kind" blankie for Avery to have while watching football and basketball with her daddy.

Nicole, don't get any ideas - you and Ryan already have OU blankets that I made. =)

In other news. I stepped on the scales 3 times this morning in disbelief. According to my official Weight Watchers scales - I lost 6.5 pounds last week! How, you ask. Well I'm pretty sure it had nothing to do with the one day I walked to work. It might be the gallon of water I drank every day that helped. Or, mayhap the biscuits and gravy at Ollie's yesterday morning. Whatever it was, I'm hoping to duplicate the loss this week. I'm only 20 pounds away from my desired Calf Fry weight!

Daddy told Aunt Ruby that I'm no longer allowed to buy clothes for him. Seems that even though I had the most handsome date at the ball - he thinks I spent way too much money on him. Well I say poo to that.

Long days and pleasant nights.

You Go Daddy

Daddy had a blast. He was a bit despared by the fact that we would be on the 30th floor. But once we got in and he had a 7Up - life was good.

Dinner was very good, so was the dessert. I had a little (seriously) piece of chocolate cake. Daddy had a little of everything on the dessert table - lol.

He reminded me that we had been there awhile and he still hadn't said hello to Carole. So off we go to find her. Well, she blew right past me, as though I wasn't even there - yells "Hi Daddy!" and hugged him.

Next thing I knew she had him out on the dance floor doing The Twist! He sat out the next couple dances and then danced with me. Then we left. What a wonderful night we had.

Awful Handsome

Tonight Daddy is going to my company Holiday party. We had to postpone the planned party on Dec. 15 - the power was still out at the restaurant.

I just wanted to take a minute to post a picture of my date!

Isn't he the most handsome?!

Parents & Children

I'm pretty sure I have cured my parents' computer. It had contracted a virus. We (Patty and I) are blaming the two grandsons. They like to download from questionable sites. So, I discussed the problem the 'puter was having with our Computer Guru. He diagnosed it the same way I did. Then he offered the generic Dell recovery CD that is incased in a glass box in the IT dept. He sent me home with the CD and pretty good instructions. I followed them to the letter, including, drink a beer while formatting, and it worked. Millie also felt that it would make things go faster if we played fetch while the CD worked it's magic.

Patty and Jimmy are in OKC this week. Patty called and offered to buy Nicole lunch. Turns out, Nicole decided to give Patty a tour of OU and buy her lunch. Patty had the pleasure of eating at the Cate Center Cafeteria! I've eaten there and also at the small coffee shop inside the Library on campus. Must say that the library was a bit better. I'm pretty sure the best part of Patty visiting OU is the gallon of pickled okra that she delivered. I'm also pretty sure that Ryan won't be seeing that gift.

Long days and pleasant nights

Weekend...

What a wonderful weekend it was. Saturday, Jan 12 - Avery Grace made her appearance into the world. She has been long in the making, so to speak. Her Daddy is one of my bosses. Her Mommy works at ORU and she is the most loved child on the planet at this moment. She weighed 9lb 1oz. and is 20" long. What a beautiful baby girl. Congrats Chris and Amy.

Sunday the family gathered to celebrate daddy's birthday. Hayden was asked how old Poppie is. His answer... 44! Patty and I almost crawled under the table. Hayden went thru the chow line with me. Good thing his momma wasn't there, all he wanted was french fries, so that's all that made it to his plate. Shhhh don't tell Alecia. Then Aunt Tammie made him the biggest ice cream cone in all of 'Skogee.

Skylar Z. on the other hand, ate everything that was placed in front of him. He even grabbed a spoon so he could scoop up Hayden's ketchup. The reason Hayden looks so good in this pic is that he looked at the first one I snapped and made me take another one.

Another thing to celebrate from the weekend... I finished the first quilt block!!!! Let's all do the Happy Dance.

Long days and pleasant nights to ye.

Employee of the Month

My BFF (Best Friend Frank) is the Employee of the month for January. Let's all say "HOORAY Frank!"

Seriously, this was a big shock to Frank. However, no one else that works here was surprised, honestly.

Employee of the Month is chosen by the department heads once a month.

Frank was chosen for his awesome prediction and coverage of the December 2007 Ice Storm. He had to abandon me Dec. 6 to watch the weather stuff and accurately guage the situation. I was left alone to deal with Sports. He promised me the Storm of the Century was on its way and he had no choice. Who knew he would be correct? Then he worked 12 to 14 hour days throughout the storm and the aftermath. We only had 50% of our Weather team at the station due to vacation and illness. Frank took up the slack, had the storm chasers on-duty and delivered the best storm coverage in Eastern Oklahoma.

Then last Monday night (Jan 7) in the midst of a gallbladder attack, he stayed on-air 5 hours without a break. He made sure everyone in the viewing area was kept updated with all the tornado warnings and severe storms popping up.

Frank, you are the BEST!

Name that Pig - Contest

Ok, I have always secretly wanted a Chia Pet. So when I found out that a whole case of them had been delivered to the station for a promotion, I quickly grabbed one.

I must say that this "pet" has been every much as attention dependent as most of my dachshunds have been. (Please do not ask if Millie is included in that thought...)

Anywho, to successfully achieve a fat pig, I had to follow some time consuming steps.

First, soak said pig overnight in a bucket of water. Also, soak seeds in a seperate dish of water. So, I found a bucket and placed the pig in the water. Seems people really do pay attention to the goings-on at my desk. A rumor began that I was trying to drown a pig.

Second, place the gooy germinated seeds all over the now fully saturated pig. This was a bit messy and not as easy to do as one would think.

Then, according to the box, just watch it grow, watering it occasionally. This is where I'm convinced a man began writing the directions. Because you see, you must make sure the water level is ALWAYS full or the pig dies. That's right I was on the verge of killing my pig (whom I had grown to love) when Chris rescued him/her.

He found a Chia Pet Rescue Kit (plastic fork, spoon, knife and napkin) and promptly went to work. This is the when he decided that Aunt Tammie of the Year or not, I'm not allowed to babysit his unborn child. (this is not good)

Vacation time came and piggy and I went home. Over the break and thru my sickness I kept the little guy fully watered. That was a chore because unlike Toby, he couldn't bring me his food dish as a reminder that feeding time had surely passed.

Long story short, kinda, everyone wanted to know how the little guy was doing. So he/she is back at the station and nameless.

So please help me find the perfect name!

Long days and pleasant nights if Gan sees fit...

Woo Hoo Nicole!

Nicole is beginning her work to be a History teacher.
She was officially accepted into the College of Education, today. I feel the need to share her future plans. She explained this to our friend Pat during the reception for Emily:

Nicole's Road to the White House
Double degree in History and Education
Masters in Education Administration (or something like that)
Teach for awhile
Move into Administration
Become a Superintendent
Run for President (win the election)

Her reasoning is that if you can teach our future generation and run a school system, running the country is a piece of cake. And, she's ok with the prospect of Hillary beating her to the "first female president" title.
Long days and pleasant nights to ye

What's Wrong with a Woman?

ARGH!
Sorry folks, but I have to give my opinion to those "Political Pollsters" that are scrambling to "explain" why Hillary won the New Hampshire primary. People can read. They didn't vote for Hillary simply because her name came before Obama's. Please, give us a little more credit than that.
Would they be scrambling if they had predicted Hillary to win and she didn't? I don't think so. Those of you that know me, know I really want Edwards. I'm thinking that's not going to happen. But, I'm no longer sad that Hillary is doing well. I've watched her on talk shows and other things. We know this woman. We first saw her in the early '90's and honestly, I've loved her since the whole "I don't bake cookies" contraversy.
She is tough and compassionate at the same time. She is everything that we want from a man, only she is a WOMAN.
It also angers me that these self-professed political journalists have been saying that people don't like Hillary because she doesn't show emotion, then when she does get caught on camera in a weak moment, go all over her because she showed weakness. Well, she is only HUMAN.
On February 5, if my choices are limited to Obama and Clinton - my vote is definately Clinton.

Christmas Stories - Finally

I know I've been absent. The excuses are really lame. I was sick and with the new boss I'm busier than absolutely ever! (That's not a bad thing)

Anywho. Christmas was fun. Skylar Z (Zeke) is now toddling and totally got into the opening gifts thing. He is also climbing like a monkey. We found him sitting on the table Grannie has all her musical Christmas things on. He was dancing along with them. It was too adorable.

Hayden was also a blast. Normally clothing is a boring Christmas gift. Not for Hayden. He had to try on everything he opened that was clothes. By the time Alecia came to pick him up, he had changed at least four times.

The next week literally everyone in the family experienced gastro-intestinal flu. Just goes to show you, a family that pukes together, stays together.

Long days and pleasant nights to ye.

Congrats Em!

What I remember of Emily is a tall, lanky, messy haired little girl that was always the joker in the crowd. She has a beautiful smile and a wit that keeps the crowd in stitches.

January 5, Lisa and Tim were the first of the parental units that I became friends with thru my daughter to become "in-laws". They simply adore Jason. Congrats and good luck to this new family.

Long days and pleasant nights to ye.