On the go, on the go, to the Snow....

Thanksgiving over with, and feeling like the Stuffed turkey we had for the event, off to the frozen tundra I go. Leaving out on a Sunday, and arriving into what I was going to see for the next 4 days - WHITE STUFF!
I landed in Illinois to be quickly reminded, Not enough protection, its bleepin snowing!!!! And snowing big flakes!!!! Headed to the property, I encountered a slick patch of ice, that brought me back to my defensive driving days in St.Louis - SLOW DOWN! Speed Kills, literally.
I was fast to deliver myself from the snowy covered parking lot to inside the warmest place that I have been in for at least an hour - a SMOKELESS Casino/Hotel! Oh yeah, no smoking, and IF you need to burn one, you have to step outside, 15 feet from the doorways to fire up - Illinois law!!!!!! Humbug! The days seems to pass quickly, as work, work, work - to get this casino open, as I have bigger fish to fry - My Birthday Party Extravaganza!!!!
All went off without a hitch, however, I was sited in the high dollar Steakhouse my last nite there, bellowing out,.....are you ready???.... "I wanta hippopatamus for Christmas!".... only a hippopotamus will Do!" Yes, as you might have suspected, they had all the mixins for the infamous Rum Smashes. AND to top it off, the bartenders birthday was also the 6th! Two same day Sagittarius's in the same area - lucky everybody! She egged me on!

My most memorable experience was headed to the airport, at 4:30am, bleepin cold - 6 degrees, windchill 1!, and meeting with the announcement that "there was no power on the jet bridge for the plane to warm up, so put on your coats, and we'll load you up. By the time we get on the runway, it should be warming up. " NOT! Sitting in the freezin aluminum beer can they call a plane, blowing smoke rings down the runway. (Just what is the temperature of the air, that you can see your breath? Trivia question)
Now I was awaken from a sound sleep, 25mins before landing, to have the flight attendant state, "The water lines have unfrozen, would you still like that cup of coffee?" Hmmm, such a hard decision. Dreaming and making a list of all the items that need to be addressed before Saturday - I sat up and started pumping the hot liquid gold we all love and adore, trying to keep up with my thoughts. Making it home, happy, but dead tired, Hey, its getting closer time for the PARTY! Just so all of ya'll are aware - my twin brother turned 46 Saturday, I'm a year younger!!!! Don't ask, but it seems that after Katrina, I lost a year. (Of course I lost more than that, but if this is the only noticeable symptom from that, its all good.)

People came from near and far, to assist on what turned out to be a great Party! Now just how do you know this. Well, if the police show up to your party more than once, then you know you've had a good one! The band played for a few hours, and it wasn't head banger music. All the oldies that you catch yourself singing to on the radio going down the road. The band was FABULOUS! Just wish they could have played longer. But, might I say, a good time was Had by ALL! The band was shut down, but people still kept coming, and God Bless Clinton Edelen, as he was the Master Chef - 80llbs of leg quarters, and cooking in the dark, was his new claim to fame! He did it, and nicely done as I might add!!! I am sure the neighbors are relieved, but probably wondering what might be up my sleeve for next year.........??!!! We'll see.

And as we are in the holiday, here's what I am offering to ya'll...... "Remember the reason for the season, and GIVE.... give your time, as this is the most priceless gift that a loved one could ever receive!" Give memories of laughter and joy! Give a hello to someone you don't know, give a smile to someone that might need something to smile about! No store can sell this, that's what makes it special!
Happy holidays my friends!!!!! Until next time..... Peace, love, and Joy!!!!!!

Well, its been a very busy end of last week, and beginning of this week, heck the last 3 weeks. I transported myself to Vicksburg to hang out at a new casino/hotel opening. Being so close to the "Delta", I rented a car and terrorized the highways in between. It was nice seeing an old friend up there. Well, the little huzzy lived and worked down on the coast, but hauled bootie up north. It would get her closer to her family, as their on the other side of Memphis. That's ok, I've always enjoyed her when we worked via Sleezlers.

The day started out mighty early, as I hit the road to avoid the traffic jam. Wow, its been awhile since I've "driven to work!" 3 1/2 hours later I'm driving down a hill right next to the Mississippi River at what seems like a 90 degree angle. Hmmm, this won't be pretty in the winter time for cars, but GREAT for toboggans!!!!

The place is definitely under construction, and they are rushing to meet their opening date. Many of us have been there, and have seen a property transform in little less than 8 hours, so this could still be on schedule.... Up the parking garage I drive, wow, only 3 levels, and I'm right on the top. I've got a great view of the river. The fun is about to begin; it seems that the elevator is not working! So down the stairs I go with a 40lb laptop bag. (Gosh, I hope the handle "hangs on") In freshly shined penny loafers, I meet my next obstacle, Mississippi Mud!..... stepping over caution tape, I finally make it to the front door. (Don't look down, cuz the loafers look like you just went mud boggin! I actually ruined a washcloth in the hotel room just trying to get the mud off)

OK, I'm here, now let's get down to business. I rounded the corner to find the next obstacle..... the elevator in the casino area doesn't work either. Just a hint, NONE of the elevators are working. So up the stairs I go with my weights attached. Burning fat grams at a rapid rate of speed. Man, no one said there I was going for the exercise course. Oh yeah!

Needless to say, the property opened without a hitch, as there was people blocking my car in the parking lot, awaiting in line to be one of the First Lucky individuals, at 4:40pm, as I drove away from the property. Headed to a family function - my niece is getting married!!!! Yes, little Rebecca is marrying her high school sweetheart in "their hometown - Tampa". All of my close friends that have been given the privilege to access the near and dears to my heart, my eldest niece. All of the immediate family is headed to Fla. I arrive in Tampa airport to locate the rent a car. Yes, no expense spared, I'm pimping in an Escalade! Thank goodness for my business travels that has allowed me to be upgraded. And upgraded I was. These thangs are SWWWEEEETTTT!

I got to the hotel to await the arrival of my parents, and my sister-in-law with the other two siblings. Hmmmm, in the back part of my mind, I have an idea where we're going for dinner...... Ryan seems to be infatuated with The Cheesecake factory. (On our last visit of 3 days, we ate there 3 times, with a to go order for the plane.)


I'm getting acquainted with the back seats of the Escalade, as Steve is driving. Hmmm, the rental car comes complete with a chauffeur! Its beginning to become a nice trip for me, as it seems I can just provide the vehicle, and be taken anywhere I want to go. The next two days are kinda a blurr. Last minute items that need attention. The special hour is approaching fast.

All decked out, the Alston family is not ready for what we are about to attend. The church - St. Raphael's' Catholic church is right on an inlet from the coast. Gosh its absolutely gorgeous!!!! Turning into the parking lot, I caught a glimpse of an angel and tears filled my eyes. Oh my gosh, its my niece in her wedding dress in front of the church. She is absolutely stunning! Every memory of that moment brings tears to my eyes! Happy tears of course. Maybe its the realization that she is all grown up. I am so gloating, as I do have a hand in this young, beautiful, smart young woman. Flashbacks of Mayday Pole celebrations, cheerleading outfits in Elementary school, Halloween costumes, her first Mardi Gras event - and many more after that. Lots of Christmas's have just flashed before me within seconds. Yep, proud Aunt Kaye Kaye has realized, she is all grown up!!! And the young man she is marrying. Absolutely wonderful. He has been in our family for many years, and we have seen him transcend as well. From the baggy pants hanging below his boxer shorts, (traveling 6pack attire) wild hair in high school to a proud member of the US Coast Guard. He has experienced defending our country, as a stint overseas to help our fellow Americans keep peace in the world beyond the US. (yeah can you tell I'm a very proud Aunt. And hope they are as proud to be "kin to me" as I am of them)

The wedding and the reception were absolutely wonderful. All of the anticipation, has led to a wonderful event! Well worth the time and effort. These kids are lucky, as for some reason they have been upgraded as well on their cruise for their honeymoon. Evidently a suite on the boat that they will be living for 7 days. Can't wait to see the pictures, however Steve has sent a pic flix to my cell phone of a quick shot. Man, it looks nice!

Flying home on a Sunday, repacking, as I'm headed back out. Next stop - IOWA. 4 letters, 3 syllables'. Will be out for 5 days, and just wondering how long its gonna take me to re-coup, rest, so I can get into some mischief. Hmmmm, not long! Butt crack of dawn flight, yeah, I'll be in rare form. Security dance time. Hasn't the TSA agent ever seen an ACE bandage on someone's foot? You would think not. Well it seems that Gulfport TSA percentage of males is higher than females. I get to watch other individuals moving in and out of the area, as I get to "sit" in the middle of the class. "Hey, I don't mind if a guy runs his hand on my lower calf".. I guess that's unacceptable at the airport. (Not in my book, but hey, that's the way it goes) Finally through security, and headed to departure gate, its a reunion of travelers. Running into a friend as we travel northward. Memphis we will split up, but its great chatting and catching up quickly. I quickly adjust in my seat, and lights out for 52 mins.until wheels down. Sleeping while on the job. keeheehee.

I'm in Iowa on the river, and remember the last time at this property, a complete conversion, but a distinctive memory comes to mind...... "they have all the fixins for a RUM SMASH!" Whheeew weeew! And excellent fried green tomatoes with crab meat. Yeah. It's gonna be pretty good. I found out Tuesday, the mixins' are there for libations, however "They've removed the fried green tomatoes!" They were the best thang on the menu. Disappointed, but not for long. The next couple of days are a blurr, as long hours, but working toward the finish line, "Time to go Home!" And to top it off, I'm getting sick. In the back of my mind, I can hear alittle whiny voice, "I want my mommy!" Yes, still a big kid! Sickness is not in my book! We have gone through the elections for the president, thank goodness its over! Now, we can start on the marathon re-runs of HOUSE! The only thang that I keep wondering, is "What kind of puppy is gonna be at the White House?" That thought, and oh, by the way, its gonna start snowing in Iowa Friday..... gotta get out of there fast! I'm still a southern girl at heart. We have white stuff, and we call it Sand! AND you can wash it away with the water hose.
PEACE OUT until Next time!

Redneck Goes to Washington - Hussy Hanah Follows

Well after re-booking my flights, I'm headed to Dulles Airport in Washington DC. This is the closest I think I've been or shall I say, wanted to be to our President, and I'm not sure if he's even Home!

The travel via the airport was pretty good. This was my first travel with my "New IPod!" Hibbey has brought me into the 21st century! All my music at my finger tips! Swwweettt! Having lost sleep due to Gustav, I plugged those puppies in, ripped off the knob, and Slept the entire way!!! (I was doing my imitation of Mark Phelps!) I highly recommend everyone get one. Of course, you run the chance of missing out on a conversation with your seating partner, which sometimes, is not a bad thing.


Arriving in the "Historic Charles Town", I was greeted by plenty of smiles, as the Agilysys team was Happy to see me. And I them. I got to meet and greet the new Agilysys person - Diana Erickson - now, you talk about my accent!? She is a real nice person, and funny too. I'm attaching a picture of us at the front desk counter. Only we know if she was standing on a box???? Or was it Brandon? Thanks Diana for the laughter and memories. Now just who won the smoking contest? Peggy started it!!!!

We headed to what I now know, our permanent watering hole - Ruby Tuesdays. It turned into Ruby Wednesdays, Ruby Thursdays, and Ruby Fridays! Well, we broke in all 3 bartenders during our travel to make the infamous Rum Smashes. The votes are in, Thursdays employee made the Top List!
For all the Rum Smash fans, you'll love this: Friday, they were setting up alittle lounge in the corner of the lobby. As I kept passing by through-out the day, I would inquire on the inventory, "do you have Creme de Noyeaux?", yes. Another pass would reveal the inventory included, "Creme de Banana". By the time 4:pm arrived, they had all of the ingredients - wwwhhhheeewww!

There were several of us that hadn't eaten all day, so we went to "Fabulous Fridays" and ate. On our way back, we decided we would do our due diligence and check out the lobby scene. Propping myself on the new bar stool, I requested the drink. After rattling off the ingredients, and ended with Shaken not stirred", I was met with "State law says that you can only serve one ounce of liquor in a drink!" What???? So it seems if your ever in a Casino in West Virginia, you will not get a "Long Island Ice Tea". An Apple martini was had, and I headed up to organize my room and suit case.

I was awaken by the TV stating, "we just encountered our first feeder band", just where am I???? Hussy Hannah was starting to effect the east coast. Contacting Delta, I was able to rebook my flight to get out before the weather set in. On driving to the airport under the cover of darkness, and in a delirious state I had to laugh, as the radio announcer stated, We are under a tropical storm warning! I thought only in the south.

Arriving in Gulfport, my bag did not make it. Now, my bag when weighed in at Washington, weighed 37lbs. (Hard to believe, but true) Now I am well over 37lbs overweight, and I was able to make it from one terminal to the other to catch my flight. My bag did not. Why is that? Hmmmm.

Helpful hints from Heloise - "when you have a smell in your vehicle, and need to get rid of it - place charcoal briquettes out, and it will soak up the moisture and odor. It works!!!! Now, I do have enough charcoal on the floor of my car to "grill a steak" when I remove it. As my mother always said " waist not want not"...... so I'm grilling Wednesday! Take care and until next travel time.........

Peace Out!

Gustav Gone

For the redneck weather watch update.....

Gustav is gone, We lost power early Monday morning. We resorted to the good ole trusty dusty 5"battery operated Black and White TV for all weather updates. When the winds died down, Dave helped tote the generator to the front porch, and Wala.... POWER!!!!
For all of you Southerners, Carrie Duncan lost 30 lbs INSTANTLY!!! Going from a 5" to a 50" screen. Even though we were out electricity wise, we still had cable!!!!! This is a blessing in disguise, as we were able to see all stations around the area, to keep up with the storm.

Even though there was reports of flooding, none of my family was effected. Minor damage was realized early in the morning around 11:am, when the horn on my SUV started screaming!!!!! I couldn't figure out what it was, but did see a beer can fly by about the time the horn started to sound. All attempts to shut it up with the remote were hopeless. Well, had to run out to see what was going on, and saw the driver side window was GONE! It evidently had been exposed to the elements for quite some time, as the driver side was extremely soaked.. On further investigation revealed the worse! USER ERROR! ARRRRR!!!! It seems that 'the driver' LEFT the driver side window down from the last trip out the night before.
GEEEZ!!!! Let me just say, if all electrical items are not working, it will headed to the dealership, awaiting a trade-in. Guess we all know who got the "Here's your sign" award on that one!?!?!

Melanie decided to break out the Jaegermeister, to dedicate the moment. It was very short lived in my book, as the first swig brought back all of the flashbacks of the before memories of Hurricane Katrina and the events that surrounded that.Whheww!

Anyway, all is well at the homestead. A friend of mine's son came over yesterday, and picked up all of the small limbs in the yard - "thinkin of John Deere".

As always, everyone banded together, hunkered down, and made it through a nerve racking event, Thanks goes out to everyone that donated their time, and efforts to the preparation "Get er done,got er did!" No doubt about it, that's what I love about the South! Thanks for the prayers, thoughts, and calls as well, ,

I am now traveling to Washington - Dulles, then rental my way down to West Virginia. Will be back late Saturday night, if Hannah leaves me alone!!!

Gustav's starting to Gust.......

Greetings from the deep south! As ya'll are very aware, the Gulf Coast kinda went into "Preparation mode" in the middle of the week. Well, everyone's biggest fear started to be a realization on Friday, the 3rd Anniversary of Katrina. This storm has given a new dimension into Hurricane Preparation. PANIC MODE! With numerous sightings of Jim Cantore at the IP spread rapidly like a Wild Forest Fire. So bad, it showed up on sunherald. com. Gosh, these rednecks will stop at nothing to get their name in the paper. Real bad joke for everyone here on the Coast.

Well, I can actually say, I've got a bunch of Gas! (thinking it can go into the jetskiis if necessary), All windows are boarded, candles, batteries, the ol' famous 5" Black and White TV, food, drink, a working generator (WE NEVER EXPECTED to use that thang again),all prescription refilled, and oh let's not forget the well thought out plan of the trip to the Liquor Store!!!! Yep, us southerners are bunkered down tight!!!!
Trust me, NO one in their right mind would have these types of plans for the 'Labor Day weekend'.

All the hustle and bustle, gave way to a quick 4 hours of fun on Saturday. Joe Mosko rolled in to board up his house, and gave 'the twins' their own hiding place from the storm - in his garage. For that we had to take them out. We did take a spin down the industrial canal, and Saturday afternoon already landed several shrimp boats harboring from danger. Hmmm, this storm is really coming.

After all items were completed the boarded, banged, and bo bo's bandaged, we took a ride to the Industrial bridge to look, If I could only get a good picture of this at night - Shrimp boats, big, little, commercial lined both banks of the canal, with all lights burning. An eerie, and a beautiful site. No matter how many times I have seen it, it still takes my breath away.

And you ask, what am I still doing here?? Well, Frank sums it up nicely. "Kaye will leave if her parents do. She's not leaving without them." Yep, he's right. Knowing all I know, what I've gone through, I'm not leaving without my family. It's all good, and I'm sure alot of people really understand.
So, riding the storm out, its now 6:am Monday morning, and we're really starting to feel the effects. Normally we have lost power by this time, and are reduced to the 5" TV, but all is well. Am getting the reports of alot of tornados floating around.

Please say your prayers for us. The sun is starting to appear, so we can now see what's coming at us.
Take care, and we'll let you know how it goes.
A special thanks to my bosses, and everyone that has called, and expressed their concern and wishes for safety for my family and friends here!

AC, Get ready cuz here I come......

Hi ya'll! On the road again..... Monday started out as a ordinary travel day - "just what do you consider ordinary???" Gulfport to Houston in the little Continental silver bullet. Flying through the air, with the greatest of ease... until wheels down, then my life began to change, even before I got there. It seems that mother nature was placing a spin on my adventure to the east coast, my plane already additional 1 hour delayed before I touched down was already in the works.
Meeting up with two lost lonely Agilysys team souls, and a 3 1/2 hour lay over - " a nice ride on the extended SUV golf cart through the airport terminal with the "redneck riding shotgun produced many giggles as announced out loud - "Get out of the way, cart coming through.." I was told to be polite, and no beep, beep replication noises from the passenger side, I add please to my 'traveling announcements..... "get out of the way, cart coming through, slower traffic to the right .... pleeez...

It was time to jet to the outside elements to burn one. Well, one of the "other" traveling butt head walked right out the door with nothing but her cigarettes!!! No ID, no boarding pass - NOTHING. Try this stunt in a busy airport, and see what happens. The southern charm was whipped out and throunced on "Larry the TSA agent", and the security dance began for her to make it back into the terminal. I have NEVER in my Life been able to gain access to such a secured environment without any form of ID. Thanks Judy for the laugh and adventure to see if we could pull this one off. We did.

Finally arriving in Philadelphia, over 3 hours late, jumping into a rental car and headed toward sinner city - in the pouring down rain. We made it safe and sound. Arriving into my room, I was greeted by my bribery of 'its gonna be a long week' gift... all the ingredients for my Favorite - Rum Smashes!!!! I'm working to the end of the day to start the festivities in my room of "all you can drink".... and I don't have to DRIVE!
Trump housekeeping is completely stunned as my second night here, after one drink I realized No ashtrays, in a smoking room, contacted them to announce "I've been robbed!" As there was no caller at the other end, I added "I have no ashtrays!" They were more than happy to accommodate my request. (I can just imagine the conversation after the lady hung up the phone - there's a nut in 4019 that doesn't have ashtrays)
The last 2 days were a blur, but arriving to my temporary home to be met at the door - a nice cool libation. After 2, the day wasn't that bad.
Well Wednesday evening returning from a long day - ALL interfaces up and running!!!! PARTY! We all decided to order room service and spend the evening going over the events of the Go Live. Many circumstances of laughter could have caused a security episode, but we made it through without an incident. 6 people laughing and telling stories, it was amazing.

I am looking forward to returning home, jumping on the twins; that is after I go to the bank and take out a loan application as its gonna take that much to fill them up. 37 gallons, you've got the figure. BUT, its all worth it! I will be slathering up with SPF 2000, as last weekend only 3 hours on the water produced a first burn of the season. My face is peeling while on property. I have officially been renamed, lizard lady! The property here is just really enjoying my southern charm.

My last day on site, was almost like at the end of High School graduation. Hugs, and enjoyed it rang out from the Trumpaneers gang. Well, most of them. Yes, I think after a 4 day stay of working long hours, side by side, I had become their southern moss, " I began to grow on them!"
Thanks goes out to all of the team that worked together that made this conversion run smooth. One down, two more to Go!
See ya'll again soon, "same bad time, same bat channel!"

Redneck Chronicles - Back HOME

Alright, I want to poll the audience, ...." Am I a morning person?" The final answer should be big unanimous, NO! I had to extend my stay in AC an extra day - "had to get er' done", and the only 2 flights left were a 5:15am, NEVER in a million years!!!! and a 7:25am flight out Friday. Man, I'll take it. Knowing I would have to leave Atlantic City at like 4:am to get to Philadelphia, turn in the car, etc. I elected to drive on to Philadephia the night before and stay by the airport. Finally getting home around 3:pm Friday, I was dead tired.

But the most exciting news for me, I had full intentions of getting the "twins charged up", as one needs to have the battery surgically removed, and replaced, and getting my self on them for a ride round the bayou. No splashy of the water, as last time I looked, it was 62 degrees. Now, you think the air temperature is somewhat bearable, stick your toe in water of that temperature.... its Freezin! Well Saturday, I had my pot full of coffee to kick start my brain, and begin the illusion of 'its not that cold out there'. One battery completely replaced and charged, it was time to hook them up. To my surprise, NOW the other battery was dead. Well, at least I can get them gassed up, oiled up, while waiting on the other new battery to charge. This done, jet ski preparation, $200. and still have not hit the water.
Easter Day came, and all batteries charged, all I have to do is find time to 'sneak away from the family festivities...... I found my spot, and bolted....
The site of the jetskiis sliding off the trailer into the water..... PRICELESS!
The maiden voyage out only last approximately an hour, but oh what fun! I did stop and take a moment of silence at "Franks' buoy" - (purchased during a 'top flight fly by' the No Wake Zone pier and being apprehended by the BMR about 3 years ago) - then continued on through the Bayou. Now, just how much did that cost ya, Frank?
With my legs partially purple, the twins happy, 'my twin brother happy' - his first run on the jetskiis, and me just grinnin ear to ear, now that's what makes life WONDERFUL!
Until the next edition..... over and out!

Redneck Chronicles - Go East Young Lady!

Well, well, well, I'm back at it again... The newest of my adventures sends me to ..... ATLANTIC CITY!! On the Boardwalk!!!
My first flight out of Gulfport in quite some time. Boy the airport has changed... for the GOOD! After working practically all day, I head off to the airport for a nice cocktail and smoke in their newly remodeled lounge, NOT! They have decided to become politically correct, and ban that extra curricular activity to save the environment, and ourselves from ourselves! Oh well,let's start the countdown, as I have not had a cigarette for approximately 45 mins., and am starting to jones as I will not smoke again until Philadelphia. hmmmm.

Its 80 degrees in Gulfport, and I am enjoying,as I have decided to wear shorts for my travel, but am toting a sweatshirt. Headed through security, the young TSA agent hands me a bin with a brief case and states " please put this through with your items". The look on my face brought on additional explanation that this is a training exercise. Did someone forget to tell him, I'm running late as it is, and need to board this flight???? We all know what is fixin to happen, it sets off the buzzer, causing several people to gather around the machine, and all of my trays have not made it through.... stopped for 'training purposes'. Vocalizing my short time for my departure, on a better look, I notice they have not made it to the other tray, its my laptop case they are looking at, crap, just what did I leave in there.

Finally making my way through the wide blue yonder to Philadelphia, we land, and the weather is .....36 degrees!!!! I can feel the cold air through the bulkhead. And trying to get my luggage from the overhead, another passenger thinks she can get through me...!!!??? Yeah, right. The moment overcame me and I announced to all the individuals behind me, I'm big, and if I were a boat, she would have scraped the 'barnacles off me'!! No southern hospitality, definitely. Snickers came from the back, as maybe it was funny, or they are agreeing I'm pleasantly plump.... who knows.
Driving to Atlantic City, should be there around midnite.

If I don't send out another update, everyone don't O D on chocolate, and have a Happy Easter!!