not very interesting...

What a week and weekend.

The whole time Nicole and I lived in Pryor we knew most of the town was in a 100 year flood plain. Who would think that the 100th year would happen our lifetime?

Terena has to replace everything. She says that at one point the water was 4ft deep in her shop. She is out looking for replacement curling irons, hair brushes and everything else today. I'm getting her phone numbers of professionals to call for duct work. Keep her in your thoughts - none of this was insured. I offered to have bake sales - she doesn't think my cookies will bring in $40k.

On the happier side. Jeff printed Nicole's invitations. Woo Hoo! and she and I spent Saturday wedding dress and graduation dress shopping. I did get pics of the wedding dress try-on session. Promised I wouldn't place them on here because Ryan might accidently see it.

I can tell you that she was the most stunning bride-to-be in the place. It's not because she is my daughter either, Jeff's new wife agrees that Nicole was stunning! Ok, maybe she didn't say those exact words -but I'm sure she thought it. The sales lady thought it too, so that means Nicole was the most stunning. (remember this is tammieland...)

Millie did not have a seizure this weekend! So I'm assuming that means the high mineral content in the Kitty Litter isn't good for her. Of course Oprah thinks it's a very fun game to jump over the litter box and then dash into it. Before doing her business she always looks out to see if anyone followed her.

Millie can't sleep without a toy. She always gets her favorite de-stuffed kitty and brings to bed. Last night she found a spiderman sippie cup and brought it to bed. I mention this because, Zentner won't go to bed without his sippie cup. Mom and I had a huge laugh over that.

Long days and pleasant nights...

PupCatCoon?

Everyone knows that Oprah Mae is extremely special. She was born a poor black barn cat. She wasn't very old when she moved to the Big City.

Turns out you can take a cat out of the country and she totally transforms into something completely different.

She still looks like a cat. Yet she is convinced that she is a puppy.

For instance. Millie's favorite toy is a bottle cap. If the bottle cap isn't available, she will carry around the bottle. Last night Millie was on the couch with her 12oz Diet Coke bottle. Oprah Mae actually assumed the official "pout position" trying to get Millie to feel sorry for her thus allowing Oprah Mae to obtain the prized toy. Needless to say, it didn't work.

I have to hide my tweezers because they are shiny. Pupcats love to carry shiny things around and play soccer with them. So that has been the norm, hidden tweezers. This morning I was totally shocked when I couldn't find my contact lense case.

I know it was on the bathroom sink cabinet when I went to bed last night. So the first thing I did when it was nowhere - yelled "Oprah Mae get in here" She knew she was in trouble. She appeared in the doorway and had the most innocent look as she explained "meeeooowww?"

The "lost" contact lense case was under the footstool at the end of the bed. Oprah Mae swears she has no clue how it got there. Thus the new term - PupCatCoon...

In other kritter news... Millie's blood work came back normal. The vet has me monitoring her for seizure activity. (like I had to be told) The kitty litter box has been placed where Millie can no longer snack in it. Hopefully, she was just getting too many minerals.

Long days and pleasant nights to ye...

Get Up & Go

My get-up-and-go has gotten up and ran away!

I don't remember the Daily Show coming on last night. But I do remember Millie waking me up at 1 this morning to let me know she "might" have to potty.

Turns out by the time we got to the kitchen she had changed her mind. She didn't even think that Mommie would carry her tail outside.

Restless sleep the rest of the night. This morning I feel like a semi rolled over me.

On the up side - Mom is doing well. Chemo #1 is over.

Long days and pleasant nights...

All Grown Up

A couple of days ago I received a call from the baby of the family.

Kevin won't officially be grown up - ever - in the family. But, he will be 21 this summer. He's already told everyone we need not buy anything, cash is perfectly acceptable as a gift.

He has done his share of job searching. Trying odd jobs in OKC. He tried the Army for awhile then WalMart. But he has found a good fit for now at a casino. He's been driving a car that really needed a lot of work when he first bought it. So much work that Aunt Tammie felt sorry for him. Ok, that doesn't take much, but still the car needed work and he was driving in the dead of winter with no working heater.

So when he called the other day I had mixed feelings about what he told me.

He had just purchased a new car. That is wonderful news.

The new car is a Mustang. My heart sank. He is just a baby. It was just yesterday that he was jumping on his mom's bed, fell and broke his head. He requested a new head instead of waiting at the emergency room. Patty wouldn't buy him one.

How can he be old enough to drive a real Mustang? I immediately became the "mom" and said well drive slowly and don't wreck it.

I should've squealed with glee I guess. But he is just a baby...

Long days and pleasant nights

summer clothes

Sunday I brought in two totes containing my warm weather attire. Since then they have been sitting in the kitchen as a fun thing for Oprah Mae to jump on.

This morning I actually donned a summer outfit. Oh my how wonderful that felt. Then I went to the closet and found my flip-flops.

Hooray for the warmer weather!!!

Long days and pleasant nights.

Unlikely Allies....

With all this talk recently about President Obama and his trips abroad, I thought I would share the lesson that I've learned at the Kolker Homestead from the Kolker Kritters.

You all know that a few months ago we adopted a kitten. At first she was afraid of the dogs and the dogs were terrified of her.

As the months have moved by, things have changed drastically. It was Millie that became her ally first. She discovered that Oprah Mae loved to chase and wrestle. Something that Mommie and Toby were not very good at.

Now, Toby has decided that she isn't such a bad pupcat after all. She sleeps cuddled up to him. Millie turns into a crockodile when she goes to sleep. No cuddling with her unless it's her idea.

Oprah Mae and Millie have even become partners in mischief. Yesterday, Oprah Mae knocked 2 boiled eggs off the counter in the kitchen. I didn't know about it until I noticed Millie eating one of them. Oprah Mae had her nose right up to the egg while Millie ate it. Millie never growled.

My lesson learned: If mortal enemies, made by God, can learn to love one another - why can't countries, made by Man, do the same?

Long days and pleasant nights.

TGIF

Woo Hoo it is finally Friday.

The Redbirds are off to an ok start. As of today we are 2 wins / 2 losses - tied for 2nd place. Like I said before, we are the Sleeper team. Each game is a new game and it takes 162 games to make the decision. My money is still literally on the Redbirds to be division winners this year.

This weekend is Easter. I love Easter. Not really for the religious aspect, which I do have to admit I really like, but also because it is a very bright and happy time of the year. Easter is a time of renewal.

Today at work we had a bake sale to help raise funds for our annual picnic for the kids at our adopted school. That was cut from our budget by the corporate types. The really fun thing is everyone got excited. We had so much food you would have thought you were at a church bake sale. It was awesome. Of course I bought for my kids. I will be making two Easter baskets this year. Nicole isn't that good at sharing. hee hee

Take time this weekend to reflect - that's what this season is all about...

Long days and pleasant nights

Spring...

Hooray! Spring might actually be overtaking Winter. I hope so anyway.

Today at lunch the pups and I stayed outside for a bit. They were so funny that I had to run back in and grab my camera. You would think that they have never seen green weeds before.

Toby sat beside me on the step. I said "Toby go sit in the grass." He looked at me, jumped off the step and ran into the weeds. He even took time to roll around in them a little bit.

Millie took time to smell the weeds and still keep an eye out for Dopey and the neighbor cats. You know at any moment one of them may decide to enter Millie's yard.

After dinner with Patty and Momma, I put the harness on Oprah and we went outside. Millie kept sniffing Oprah to make sure she hadn't turned into a "cat" of all things. Because the second she becomes one of those Millie will have to chase her out of the yard too.

Momma starts chemo next week. She will have anywhere from 4 to 6 treatments before surgery. Once they do the surgery she will be monitered but the odds are very good that the cancer will be gone. Keep those prayers coming.

Long days and pleasant nights to ye...

Sleepers

One of my all time favorite movies is named Sleepers. It is about 4 boys that play a prank that goes terribly wrong. They are sent to juvenile detention and are brutally raped almost every night by the guards. They are eventually released and grow up. One becomes an attorney, one a newspaper reporter, the other two total thugs that found a gang. Chance brings them back together to avenge the destruction of their youth by taking down the lead horrible guard.

My cards are considered a non-contention this season by almost everyone. Today I was delivering the stations copy of Sports Illustrated to Lincoln's mailbox via my desk, and discovered that SI considers the Cards a "sleeper" team this year.

All their so-called sports experts say that the Cubs will go to the play-offs again this year as the NL Central winners. They do not even place the Cards in the Wild Card spot. Which gives me room to say, that Wild Card is the stupidest thing that has happened in baseball in over a century! Let me just say at this point that I do have the right to recant that last sentence in October.

In the light that the Cards are now recognized for what I have been saying since last October - I actually accepted a bet on baseball. This goes against all my principles. I never ever gamble. But this really isn't a gamble and I'm not Pete Rose. Linda (our account director) has until October to save the 25 cents she will owe me when my boys come out of nowhere and teach everyone a lesson.

long days and pleasant night...

Mom

I guess we knew this day would come. You just never think about it. The children have to step up and take care of the parents.

Mom has some sort of bladder cancer. We were in the hospital last week for a biopsy. As scary as this sounds, the hard part is keeping her "down."

She literally has a prescription from the doctor to be a couch potato. We go to the urologists office and the oncologist's office next week to find out the final word and how the treatment will take place.

The oncologist, Dr. Lynch, thinks that we will be able to completely get rid of this nasty tumor. He told mom his initial plan is to send her thru a series of chemo and then surgery to take out what is left. This could change after the bone scan results. So please keep her in your thoughts.

Mom was released late Friday afternoon. We spent the night in Tulsa then trudged thru the early spring blizzard yesterday to get her home. She didn't really rest until she was in her own bed. They boys came over. They had a blast.

Hayden started asking to go play in the snow as soon as he walked in the door. I was very happy to see Uncle Jimmy walk in minutes later. We bundled everyone up and off the boys and Uncle Jimmy went.

I came home this morning. The puppies had to spend 24 hours locked in the house with no food. They were about to starve and were looking for a phone to call peta.

The snow is almost gone. Normal life - or as close as it will get - is returning.

Long days and pleasant nights to ye...

Life is Good

This weekend was very productive. By 10am yesterday I had already returned my dvr; had my eyes examined and been to Reasors.

Now my monthly cable bill will be a lot less. Once November gets here, I'll probably cut cable completely off. Saving a bundle more.

My eyes have improved. I'm still blind, just not as blind. Although I was instructed to get a set of cheap reading glasses for the times that my eyes get tired from working too hard. The Dr doesn't know me very well. hee hee

Reasor's had a sale on hot dogs. So, now we are set for Nicole's graduation party - hot dogs anyway. Speaking of Nicole's graduation, I finished her present this weekend. With lots of help from Oprah Mae.

The house is clean, that includes vacuuming and the bathroom. sigh

Today, I saw the first Cards game on tv and they won!!!

Long days and pleasant nights...

I have the Smartest Kid EVER!

March 2, 2009

Dear Graduating Senior: (Nicole)

Congratulations! As a result of your high academic achievement, you will be graduating with academic distinction.

All undergraduate students graduating with academic distinction are entitled to wear a specially-designed gold hood over their academic regalia at the May 15 Commencement and May 16 College Convocation ceremonies. You have qualified to wear such a hood.

You may purchase your gold hood when you purchase your cap and gown at The University Bookstore or during Graduation Gear-Up to be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, March 2 –Thursday, March 5, in the Beaird Lounge located on the second-floor of the Oklahoma Memorial Union.

We look forward to celebrating with you this May.

We hope you will wear this hood as a sign of your tremendous academic achievement.

Sincerely,

Joyce Allman, Ph.D.
Assistant Dean

Hello Spring

This morning when the critters finally managed to wake me. It took a combination of Millie and Oprah Mae to actually get my butt out of bed, I realized the small window had been left open. And I wasn't FREEZING!

I even wore short-sleeves to work with no jacket. How awesome!!!!

Toby seems to be walking better now as well. I poked on him so much last night he probably figured even if it does hurt, he is better off faking walking without a limp.

Had a nice long chat with my cuz in Birmingham. He told me a different way to cook roast. Evidently his mom places a can of Coke in the crock pot with the roast. I might just try that tomorrow.

Something on the work front... I took Tuesday off to hang out with Mom and Dad. Wednesday the first thing Carlton said to me - "I really missed you yesterday. It was like my right arm was cut off." - WOW - I never thought a green person would admit to needing a blue person.

Long days and pleasant nights...

stuff - nothing much

Mom and Dad visited this week. I was allowed to drive the really too big truck that Momma bought for Daddy. He kept telling me that I was "on the line." I really wasn't and told him that if he had bought a normal sized car, we wouldn't be having those discussions. He also agreed that I could tell everyone that I drove it thru the ditch at my house...

They stopped by Sam's Club and picked up a deep freeze for me. That's one of the best investments made by my tax refund. I already have pizzas, chicken, hamburger and girl scout cookies in it!

Daddy also moved the window air-conditioner to the West window in my bedroom. I was then able to place the screen on Oprah's window and open it for her. This has been the best thing since peanut butter in her mind. This morning she actually opened the curtain by herself to see if the window was open yet.

She also learned that like Nanna and Aunt Patty, Grannie belongs to Millie. When Oprah tried to give Grannie love, Millie quickly shoo'ed her away. That's ok, while Millie was under the blankie sleeping beside Grannie, Oprah slept on top of Grannie. Unfortunately I didn't have a camera. It really was funny. All 3 of my puppies were sleeping with her and she had no clue.

Toby on the other hand seems to have hurt one of his legs. He limps about 75% of the time, meaning there really is something wrong. I've almost decided he pulled a muscle because after sleeping he is fine until he jumps off something. Peanut laced aspirin has been helpful.

Long days and pleasant nights...

Toby and the Biscuit

Toby came to live with us about 8 1/2 years ago. You would think in that amount of time I would learn to watch my feet.

Yesterday, I was on my last day of "bad" food. I had gone to KFC and had a biscuit with jelly in my hand. I rounded the kitchen table and that's when Toby somehow managed to bring me down.

On my way to the floor I remember hearing him cry twice. All I could think was "Oh my god, I'm hurting Toby." Well after landing I realized that Oprah Mae had also been involved. She, however, got the heck out of Dodge and watched me fall from the safety of my bed. Meanwhile, my bad knee and forehead had taken the brunt of the fall.

I managed to sit up looking around for Toby. Afterall I did think that he was hurt. He crawled onto my lap, putting most of his weight on my now throbbing knee. After he decided that I was ok, he went to recover the biscuit.

I have a big bump on my forehead. It hit the edge of my solid wood step stool. My knee is bruised pretty well. None of the critters felt the need to steal the ice packs, that's good to know.

However, Oprah Mae felt the need to sleep on me all night. Normally she moves to her bed after a few minutes. I guess she was worried about her mommie...

Long days and pleasant nights.

mug shot or head shot

I rarely blog about work. But, last night we had our annual pre-storm season Storm Chaser Round-up.

This is an evening where Frank dazzles those that love chasing tornadoes. I'm pretty sure it takes a LOT to dazzle them, and Frank is the man for the job! (yes, he pays me for comments like this)

Anyway, Carlton asked if I have a digital camera. Of course I do. Then he asked me to get a pic of the whole team in the Weather Center.

I mentioned to him that I had brought my camera and we were also going to take head shots of the chasers that we do not currently have. He spent the next 20 minutes giving me a lesson in how to NOT take mug shots for head shots.

So I thought I would post this Non Mug Shot - Head Shot that I took of Carlton. Another criteria is that they not smile because when the photo is up most likely the person will be talking about weather damage. For some reason CH thinks they shouldn't be smiling about that.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Twitter?

When I was growing up you were "all a twitter" when something exciting happened - like you scored fig newtons from Nannie's secret stash.

As a young woman, I knew I was pregnant when I felt a "twitter" in my tummy.

It seems that now the word "twitter" has been hi-jacked much in the same manner as the word "gay" was hi-jacked. Only when you hear someone is "twittering" these days negative and bigotted remarks do not follow.

I joined the "Twitter" crowd yesterday. The most exciting thing about my new membership was that Nicole isn't yet "Twittering"

Hee hee - I beat her to something new and cool! Woo Hoo!!!

The down side is that now I have to begin learning a whole new language. I'm not sure that my head can handle all the information.

If you want to follow me - simply go to twitter.com and search my name!

You can also follow the station - search for ktulnews.

long days and pleasant nights...

Busy weekend...

This picture sums up the weekend...

May ye never forget the face of your father, young Skylar...

Long days and pleasants nights...

Lessons of a Toddler

Just a quickie right now. I have to download the plethera of pics from the weekend. This was my first "monthly" visit with Skylar. Odd calling him that.

He taught Aunt Mammie a lot this weekend.

The short list:

The washing machine that shakes the whole kitchen isn't annoying - it's fun!
Baseball lessons on top of the shaking washing machine are the best.
DVD's play better when licked and wiped on your diaper.
You can never see enough of Sponge Bob Square Pants, Dora and Shrek.
Bathtime and teeth brushing are an adventure, not a chore.
Pictures should be moved around instead of sitting in one place for more than ten minutes.
Always start your day sitting at the big kitchen table, smiling and saying "good morning."

Long days and pleasant nights...

Rambles - literally

Wow how time flies. Has it really been FOREVER since I last blogged?

The sadness comes and goes now. I can be in the throws of hysterical laughter and a thought of Skylar hits and the laughter turns to choked back tears. Just today I forced the tears back, all that happened was that the people that won Bob The Builder tickets actually picked them up. The tears are because that means now I have no "excuse" to keep Zeke Friday. Silly, huh?

Time isn't really flying. I can't believe it is only February. Mayhap the problem is that sweeps has been changed to March due to the digital revolution. Or it's possible that I'm feeling so very mortal.

Getting back to finding pleasure in the little things has become the most important goal right now. For example:

...I have the money to buy a small deep freeze. Why is the something to be happy about? Well, Jo and I are going to have a garden this year. I will be able to freeze things from said garden. Also, I'll now be able to take advantage of sales on things that I can throw in the freezer thus saving money.

...I have decided to at the least cut back to basic cable, and might actually cut cable altogether. Where is the "happy" in this? Well, it will give me more time to blog, walk, take pictures of the kritters (I don't have nearly enough) chat on the phone, totally annoy Nicole... you probably get the picture.

...I'm considering getting a part-time job and/or take some classes. Happiness in a part-time job is that I will be able to pay off debt faster and save money for a down payment on a house.

All of these are small steps that are taken one day at a time. I woke up fat yesterday. So, I drank more water, didn't buy a cheeseburger and today? I woke up a little less fat.

Oprah reminded me that you really don't need an expensive shiny toy to play with when a perfectly fine Diet Coke box is in the middle of the floor.

Guess that's all for now.

hoping to see you in the clearing at the end of the path...

Adorable...

Aren't these the most adorable babes?

Their daddy is Toby the lab - he died in December. Thier mom is a beautiful german shepard. Just thought I would share these babies.

They are living with their Grandpa Steve and Grandma Irene right now. Their Uncle Tuvok isn't allowed anywhere near them. hee hee

They will be ready for adoption in about a month.

Long days and pleasant nights...

forwarded email...

The following was found posted very low on a refrigerator door.

Dear Toby, Millie and Oprah:

The dishes with the paw prints are yours and contain your food. The other dishes are mine and contain my food. Placing a paw print in the middle of my plate and food does not stake a claim for it becoming your food and dish, nor do I find that aesthetically pleasing in the slightest..

The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Racing me to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn't help because I fall faster than you can run.

I cannot buy anything bigger than a king sized bed. I am very sorry about this. Do not think I will continue sleeping on the couch to ensure your comfort, however. Dogs and cats can actually curl up in a ball when they sleep. It is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other, stretched out to the fullest extent possible. I also know that sticking tails straight out and having tongues hanging out on the other end to maximize space is nothing but sarcasm.

For the last time, there is no secret exit from the bathroom! If, by some miracle, I beat you there and manage to get the door shut, it is not necessary to claw, whine, meow, try to turn the knob or get your paw under the edge in an attempt to open the door. I must exit through the same door I entered. Also, I have been using the bathroom for years - canine/feline attendance is not required.

The proper order for kissing is: Kiss me first, then go smell the other dog or cat's butt. I cannot stress this enough.

Finally, in fairness, dear pets, I have posted the following message on the front door:

TO ALL NON-PET OWNERS WHO VISIT AND LIKE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT OUR PETS:

(1) They live here. You don't.
(2) If you don't want their hair on your clothes, stay off the furniture. That's why they call it 'fur'-niture.
(3) I like my pets a lot better than I like most people.
(4) To you, they are animals. To me, they are adopted sons/daughters who are short, hairy, walk on all fours and don't speak clearly.

Remember, dogs and cats are better than kids because they:
(1) eat less,
(2) don't ask for money all the time,
(3) are easier to train,
(4) normally come when called,
(5) never ask to drive the car,
(6) don't hang out with drug-using people;
(7) don't smoke or drink,
(8) don't want to wear your clothes,
(9) don't have to buy the latest fashions,
(10) don't need a gazillion dollars for college
(11) if they get pregnant, you can sell their children . . .

Evolution

Somehow, I have ended up with 3 puppies. I had two puppies when I noticed mouse droppings. That led to a serious discussion with the neighbors cats. They paid no attention just kept sunning on my roof.

So, we adopted a kitten from the mazie prairie. Being a responsible pet-mommie and wanting to save myself and my furniture - she has been spayed and declawed. She moved in around November. The first month or so she was 100% kitten. Somewhere along the way she has turned into 90% dauchshund.

Everywhere Millie goes, so does her sister. When Millie goes outside to potty - Oprah sits at the door waiting for her come back in. When Millie goes to bed, Oprah lies beside her on the blankie. When Millie eats, so does Oprah. I'm just waiting for the day when the meow turns into a bark.

Long days and pleasant nights...

Change

The whole world has been ecstatic at the "change" 2009 promises to bring.

I was optimistic that the "change" we have been promised would be at the least good. It never occurred to me that dramatic change would happen so close to home.

Last Fall, we had a pretty drastic round of lay-offs. The economy continues to go to Hell In A Handbasket, so to speak. Yet, I have a good job. My company is stable. Life is going on. I bought a new-to-me car. Money has become tight, but manageable.

January 23 I received a phone call that placed everything in perspective. My 23 year-old nephew, Skylar had died. He had simply taken a pill, gone to sleep and never woke up. From then up until the afternoon of January 30, things are a blurr. The afternoon that Skylar died I also received notice that there had been another lay-off. My job is still secure. However, we have taken a pay cut.

During the week going up to the funeral, I had a lot of time to reflect. In that reflection came a lot of argument with my Lord. What came out of the argument was that I am alive and loved. I also have so many memories of Skylar. Last Fall when he introduced me to his latest girlfriend, he said "this is Aunt Tammie - the Coolest Aunt on Earth." The last picture taken of him was snapped by me, just minutes before he hugged me, said "I love you, Aunt Tammie" and walked out the door. That was the day we celebrated Christmas with the extended family. He was so happy that for the first time ever he had enough money to give his boys what he considered a very nice Christmas. That was the last time I saw him alive.

The point of this day's blog... We are still alive. We still have two beautiful young boys that are so very much like their daddy. I still have a job. Yes, less money, but a job. I still have a home, 2 puppies and a kitty that thinks she is a puppy. Make every day matter. Let those close to you know how much you love them. We don't have a guarantee that there will be a tomorrow. We can guarantee that those we love will always know we love them.

Long days and pleasant nights...

DANGER: Falling Ice

The roads were better today. Mt Krumpit didn't bother the little Red Focus...

However, backing out of my place was very interesting. I almost ran into the ditch. We know the Rav4 can survive that, but I really don't want to test the obstacle with the Focus. When I finally hit the street, the car was facing the wrong direction. So, I went to the Stop sign, turned around and made my up the Southside of Mt Krumpit. This morning we reached the mind-boggling speed of 21mph!

Now the worries are being hit by falling ice. Our tower is shedding it's coating and the ice is pummeling to the front parking lot. Fortunately I parked at the far end of the NW parking lot - ice doesn't get that far.

Long days and pleasant nights...

Snow Snow Go Away...

Another early morning. I'm beginning to miss my little Sunfire. It was small and could handle Mt. Krumpit much better than the new larger Ford.

Anyway, I made it up the mountain... I did think about calling to say that I couldn't make it to work. However, Darrean would've just asked what's wrong with my legs. So, I popped the Focus into 2nd and let the wheel go whenever the car decided to try to slide. Thanks Daddy for forcing me to drive home from work with you in the passenger side. I haven't forgotten that terrifying experience and it has served me well.

If the temperature doesn't get above freezing tomorrow, I'm going to ask to borrow Strait. I already sleep with 2 dogs and a cat - a horse that stands 16 hands won't be too much more.

Anyway, I did remember my camera this morning. Primarily because when I looked out to check the car situation - I had to laugh. There were paws all over the snow running every direction. They ran all around my car. They ran from the porch in all directions. It was too funny. So I have snapped a couple of pics that I think are worthy. Not the quality of my friend Jo, but I like them...

Long days and pleasant nights...

Ice Storm 2009

At 7am when I looked out and saw the beautiful winter wonderland I thought, oh shoot, I forgot my camera at home.

Then that thought was immediately followed by, I have plenty of pictures of Mt Krumpit iced over. Hopefully, this ice storm will not have the whollup the last two have had.

Yes, I was at work by 4:30 this morning. Schools all over the viewing area are closed. If they aren't, they probably won't have very many students attending.

If you live in Oklahoma and don't have to get out - DON'T...

Long days and pleasant nights...

Changing of the Guard...

A new day has dawned in our country.

As I sit here and listen to all the inaugural speeches, I am proud and ashamed at the same time. The Constitution states very clearly that "all men are created equal." Yet it has taken 232 years to elect a man of African descent to the highest office in our country. We have yet to elect a woman or Native American for the office. Indeed it took over 100 years for those of African descent and women to even get the basic right of voting.

The History Channel has been re-running their series on the American presidents. It has been interesting re-learning about our forefathers. As we move forward, a huge task is being placed on our newest president. He must somehow undue an economic mess that began in the years of Ronald Regan. Since then every president, including President Clinton, and each Congress contributed to the situation we face now. President Obama faces an economic situation similar to that of FDR when he first took office. He has made large promises. Time will only tell if he is up to the task.

I pray that the nation supports him thru the hard times to come. Good luck Mr. President.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Weekend Wrap

It was a busy yet not so busy weekend.

Steve and Renie came over and helped me out with the chainsaw. Seems my friends and family don't trust me with a chainsaw. Turns out the "big limb" that the neighbors told me was under the pile of brush, didn't exist. So we re-arranged the the pile into a manageable pile that I can actually work on. Steve did have to use the chainsaw on a some of it. Jo is going to donate old hay to my yard to help kill out weeds. The hope is that I will have an area to have a nice garden.

Steve's german shepard had puppies. They are a black lab/german shepard mix. If you're in the hunt for a good pup - give a shout!

Took the chainsaw back to Jimmy, yesterday. Kevin grilled burgers for dinner. They were really good. Mom and Dad came over with Zentner. We were entertained for a couple hours by him.

It was a good weekend. More of these are needed...

Long days and pleasant nights...

Great Decisions

This week I began what I had believed to be a Bible class.

It all began with an innocent conversation with a co-worker that discovered we are both Episcopalians. She mentioned this class that she and a friend go to at their church. She sent me the information and I quickly enrolled. I've participated in Bible classes sponsored by the Episcopats before. They have all been wonderful experiences.

When I picked up the book, I quickly began reading the first "lesson." It was a bit perplexing in that there was no mention of the Bible, God or even Jesus. Now, as an Episcopat this was no real surprise. Many times the moderator receives a larger manual that will have the Christian instruction. I love this aspect of my chosen church. They gently force you to think.

Well, I made it to the first class. It was the coldest night of the century. (not kidding) There were about 35 gray-hairs, two forty-something couples and me. Again, no real surprise. The surprise came when this very nice grandmotherly person began chatting with me. I mentioned that I was using this as a boost to get my behind back in church. She looked at me and asked "what does THIS have to do with church?"

Once I wrapped my head around the fact that this is a class that is only housed in the building because the moderator is a member... I was able to begin paying full attention to the subject at hand.

It is a wonderful discussion, so to speak, about world events and the situation the world finds ourselves in. It is fascinating and has already opened my eyes to a few things I had no idea about.

Thankfully my prayers to my Lord were answered and I wasn't allowed to talk myself out of going the first night.

Long days and pleasant nights...

Red Dirt Cram

I have begun a crash course in learning more of the music I LOVE! The test is the weekend of June 18 - 21.

Last night on the way to the most wonderful birthday celebration for my most wonderful Daddy, I listened to a newsly purchased cd.

In addition to being one of the Red Dirt Godfathers, Robert Earl Keen is freakin' hysterical. I found myself laughing out loud (lol for those of you younger than 25) As much as I love Boland, REK had much the same affect on me. I was all smiles last night. Slept perfectly well, just like a baby. I had to keep reminding myself that he influenced Pat, not Pat influencing him. Mayhap that is one reason I have that warm-fuzzy feeling.

It is a bit disturbing that Pat has already begun creeping into my dreams. He was standing in the shadows of one last night. So, Pat, I PROMISE I'll be at the Calf Fry. I will be dead on my feet at work the next day, but I'll be there. You could've at least played Friday to help me out...

Long days and pleasant nights...

Happy Birthday Daddy!

January 13, 1943 in Yakima Washington, Vernon Z and Martha E Smith became the parents of the greatest man I know.

My daddy was the second of 5 children. Being the oldest son gave him the birthrite to the Zentner name. A name which has become beloved in the family.

My daddy has always been there for me. When I was allowed to join the Speech and Debate team in high school, he became the parent that went on trips. That meant that he had to be on a school bus with anywhere from 10 or more teenagers from 4am until after midnight on the weekend. After having a teenager, I understand the sacrifice he made.

He was also in the room when my baby girl was born. One of my clearest memories of that day was telling Daddy that I was tired and wanted to go home. He sighed and calmly said "Sug if I could take you home, you know I would, but you have to do this first." Jeff and I were grossed out by the bloody mess... but my Daddy stood over the doctors shoulder making sure he was doing everything right and then gave the baby her first bath.

After the divorce, when I called and said that I was going out of my mind, Daddy drove to Pryor and took me to a doctor in Ft Smith to make sure I was ok.

They don't make Daddy's like this anymore. He taught me to respect God, country, family. He taught me that family always comes first, no matter how difficult it is to be there, physically or emotionally. He is always there for me and my sisters with an unconditional love. I love him more than words can ever tell.

We are celebrating tonight at his favorite place to eat - Golden Corral.

Long days and pleasant nights

February 14, 2009...

...is a very important day in my life.

It is the day that pitchers and catchers report to Spring training. That is only 5 weeks away.

The Redbirds have been busy in the off season. They still have a very light pitching/bullpen staff. I'm hoping that will change by the time the season actually opens. The good news is that most of the rest of the team is still in place. Miles was allowed the free agent exit. That is a loss of a good utility player, but only one.

Pujols and Yaddi are still anchoring the bases and bats. Ankiel and Ludwick are still around. Barton as far as I know will be back. I'm hoping we will see him in more games this season.

I'm sure LaRussa will be calling soon with all the off-season details I need to know...

Long days and pleasant nights...

Seriously?

Are we really having this debate again?

When the pitbull with lipstick stepped onto the national stage, I defended her as a "mom" in the workforce. I've been there and done that - so to speak. Everyone knows how I feel about the Governor of Alaska. Nevertheless, I do think she might actually make a decent Senator if she so desires.

As a card-carrying Democrat, I also know I'm supposed to pay homage to anyone that is in the Joe & Rose Kennedy lineage. Even a must to kiss the ring of the direct heir to the throne - in this case - Caroline. I kept quiet when the talking heads began spinning the whethers about her appointment to fill Senator Clinton's seat. But today I read an interesting piece about how qualified she isn't. Seems a woman that decides to get an education then stay at home to raise the children before re-entering the workforce isn't qualified for squat. I can not disagree more. What are her qualifications?

Well lets take a looksee...

**Bachelor degree from Radcliff (part of Harvard)

**Law degree from Columbia Law School

**Founded the Profile in Courage Awards, which honors elected officials who have shown political courage.

**Caroline co-wrote In Our Defense: The Bill of Rights in Action with fellow law graduate Ellen Alderman. This is the first of several books she has published.

**She turned down an offer to be chairwoman of the 1992 Democratic National Convention. (has no problem saying no to the party)

**Serves as a member of the national board of directors for the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, the vice-chair for the Fund for Public Schools in New York City, and chief executive for the New York City Department of Education Office of Strategic Partnerships.

You may not be able to see Russia from her backyard, but I think she is qualified to be a Jr Senator from the state of New York. We need more women in Washington DC that have a deep passion for what women care about. It doesn't hurt that she is a Kennedy either...

Happy

It really doesn't take much to make me happy.

Last night while I was washing my dinner dishes, I heard a knock at the door. Followed by a lot of barking to let me know there had been a knock at the door.

It was Nicole!

As wonderful as it was to see her, she brought my Christmas present. That is the source for today's happiness. She bought Just After Sunset - King's latest collection of short stories.

I'm thinking that his short story books are probably up there with my favorites of his releases. You get scared many more times than in a novel. The novel is a totally different kind of scare. It creeps up on you. For example, in Duma Key, he kept warning me that the paintings of the ocean and the boats were deadly. I didn't realize that he was being literal until one killed his daughter. Jo, I dismissed the earlier suicide and murder attempt as coincidental...

Out of King's tinkering with short thoughts, we got such wonderful stories as Jeruselem's Lot that later turned into the absolutely horribly scary 'Salem's lot. Along with The Mist and 1408. My absolute favorite series, The Dark Tower, began with tinkering as well.

Needless to say, my weekend is Booked!

Long days and pleasant nights...

Greed - One of the 7 Deadly Sins...

Porn industry seeks federal bailout
Posted: 03:00 PM ET
From CNN's Rebecca Sinderbrand and Mark Preston

Larry Flynt is asking for a bailout.

WASHINGTON (CNN) — Another major American industry is asking for assistance as the global financial crisis continues: Hustler publisher Larry Flynt and Girls Gone Wild CEO Joe Francis said Wednesday they will request that Congress allocate $5 billion for a bailout of the adult entertainment industry.

“The take here is that everyone and their mother want to be bailed out from the banks to the big three,” said Owen Moogan, spokesman for Larry Flynt. “The porn industry has been hurt by the downturn like everyone else and they are going to ask for the $5 billion. Is it the most serious thing in the world? Is it going to make the lives of Americans better if it happens? It is not for them to determine.”

Francis said in a statement that “the US government should actively support the adult industry's survival and growth, just as it feels the need to support any other industry cherished by the American people."

“We should be delivering [the request] by the end of today to our congressmen and [Secretary of the Treasury Henry] Paulson asking for this $5 billion dollar bailout,” he told CNN Wednesday.

Flynt and Francis concede the industry itself is in no financial danger — DVD sales have slipped over the past year, but Web traffic has continued to grow.

But the industry leaders said the issue is a nation in need. "People are too depressed to be sexually active," Flynt said in the statement. "This is very unhealthy as a nation. Americans can do without cars and such but they cannot do without sex."

"With all this economic misery and people losing all that money, sex is the farthest thing from their mind. It's time for congress to rejuvenate the sexual appetite of America. The only way they can do this is by supporting the adult industry and doing it quickly."

So far, there has been no congressional reaction to the request.

–CNN’s Chloe Melas contributed to this report
Filed under: Congress

Disclaimer
So I don't get in trouble - this came from CNN.com - I thought it was simply too funny to not share.

Long days and pleasant nights.

Seven Pounds

If you know me, you know that I'm not all that big on movies. My BFJo is, however. So over the past decade that we have known each other it has become sort of a tradition that we do a dinner/movie thing for my birthday.

This year we dined at the Roadhouse (of course) and wondered on across the street to the movie theater. We decided on Seven Pounds. Primarily because I totally love Will Smith, and it has received good reviews.

I can't tell you about the movie without blowing the plot. I can say that I recommend it for viewing if you like movies. Also, you may want to consider taking kleenex.

It does invoke some thought about mortality, suicide, organ doning. I would go further but I'm already treading the spoiler waters...

I also highly recommend the "Yummy Hot Chocolate" at the cafe.

Long days and pleasant nights.

puppies & kittens

Who woulda thunk that a kitten living here would actually become part of the family?

Millie and O are practically inseperable. The best part of that is that O literally wears Millie out. It has gotten to the point that O has to almost beg Millie to play. Puppy toys are now considered fair game for puppies and kittens. Well, except Millie's pink ball - that is exclusively Millie's toy.

Yesterday was such a wonderful day weatherwise, that I opened the living room and kitchen windows. O was entranced. She spent most of the day going from one window to the other. Occasionally she would notice the front door open and look out from there. Sometime in the afternoon I heard her "talking" in a language I had not heard from her. Upon investigation, one of the kittens from next door was sitting on the other side of the window talking to O. This conversation went on until Millie discovered a wild animal trying to kill her sister. She immediately began the attack and let the wild animal know that O was her sister and she wouldn't allow any correspondence. Of course this resulted in both O and the "outsider" just staring at Millie like she was nuts.

Toby on the other hand, has become more of a Mommies puppy than ever. If that was possible. He is no longer the least bit interested in playing chase with Millie. He does chase O, but that is only to eat her.

If someone could let me know how to get the kitten to sleep thru the night, or at least let me sleep, please give a shout.

Long days and pleasant nights...

2009 - Please be Kind

Well another year is gone. It seems like just yesterday I was a kid in McAlester. Cheering in the new year with my friends and then running like hell to get away from the "birthday love" swats. Jimmy Dean was always in the lead on that one...

Now I'm sitting here in my kitchen with the puppies and kitten.

Looking back on 2008, it could've been better.

It was the first full year without Nannie. Uncle Louis left us. We had a small adjustment of personnel at the station. Friends also left... David, Emma Lou and Colt.

On the up side, if there is one. It was definately the year that it was a good thing to not be heavily invested in the stock market. Being poor was actually better than having stocks or being a high class banker, CEO of almost anything or one of the "expendable" persons in a company choking on it's own bad investments.

And one of the brightest points of 2008 was getting re-acquainted with a few cousins that time had gotten away from us. Jeff, Steve, Louie, Droopy.

My first ever trip to the desert happened in June of 2008. Astonishingly Jeff actually welcomed the idea that I might be coming again to see my Redbirds play his Dbacks. It was also weird that I was the only "Dellinger" his family and friends had met outside his parents and brother.

There are two jewels of the year that standout. My new relationship with my Tio NT. He is a true blessing. I enjoy every communication with him, whether it be a quick note letting me know he is on his way to some meeting or a lengthy email about his thoughts.

The other is the addition of Oprah Mae to the family. I've never been a cat person, nor has Millie. But O has really stolen our hearts. She was born a poor black girl in a barn on the Mazie Prairie. Colt appointed himself as her protector so how could I continue to say no to her moving in with us? Millie can no longer innocently walk around without having a kitten pouncing on her.

2009 - please be a little easier than the your predecessor. My baby girl will graduate with her BA in History and Teaching Certificate. I will gain a son this year. I am praying to just keep the status quo...

Long days and pleasant nights, if ye kenit.

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