What are We Gonna Do with the Women?

are you packed yet?

2009-01-07T21:34:00.000-08:00

In less than 24 hours I leave for the great state of Texas to spend about a week with my sweetie. For Mr. B, this trip means work. For myself and some other blessed ladies around the country, it means a few days and nights fun and fellowship doing all kinds of girl stuff.

Less than 24 hours-gone for a week.

You would think a gal would have a bag uh....or two packed, right?

Not this girl.

I am thinking about luggage quite a bit lately.

Due to various airline machinery chewing up the family Eddie Bauer basic black set (this last set was wrecked in record setting time), I found myself searching high and low then high again for a new travel bags.

In my quest to find new bags I stumbled upon the luggage of my dreams.

My friend Donna of Your Hearts Desire Boutique creates some beautiful as well as practical fabric creations. Low and Behold she was selling the unique three piece set above at a very competitive price, so my bags could be cute, distinctive (not likely to be lost among the 'black upon black here's red ' luggage carousal) and once I painted them with a heavy armor of Scotch Guard...I was sold.

Like I always say, 'Nothing like a good rationalization'.

I admit to a few hesitations prior to purchasing such lovely totes. Considering the way our old bags have suffered through the years, seems unlikely these would fare any better.

In making this purchase I had to be willing to either pack all my wears (whether a day or a weeks worth) in the carry on.

Not possible - where would I put my make-up and hair products?

Instead the question became how might I wrap these bags in a virtual force field of protection.?

For starters-Scotch Guard, every mothers friend. Supposedly this set was created with soil resistant fabric, but hey, I don't think you can be over-protective...with your luggage that is.

After thoroughly coating my bags with a couple of cans of SG, my next worry was leaving my lovely cases with baggage ~~busters~~ handlers.

As luck would have it, the first time I traveled with my new cases the female baggage handler measured,weighed and wrapped it in a red ribbon...really!

The ribbon had an Italian word repeated all over it-'Fragile'.

Of course she could see, the bags were most delicate and needed to be handled with care.

My luggage arrived in pristine condition. I was beside myself with joy! (did you notice I kind of LOVE my luggage?)

Since that first trip I make a point to give the handlers an extra tip and always request exotic stickers or tape that mark my bags for the dainty darlins they are, 'Fragile'!

So far, still lookin good.

Oh, another thing about that first trip?

Once I arrived at my destination and unpacked, I immediately began tallying numerous things I forgot...most probably due to my waiting until the last hours to pack.

Well, I better get a movin, I think I hear my luggage calling me!

Who's coming to Austin? We Want to Hear from YOU!!

2008-12-01T04:54:00.000-08:00

It appears the link is up on the Spray Foam website to this blog with very little explanation as to why you might come here.

Sorry for the confusion.

Basically Ladies we are attempting to see how many members wives, daughters, mothers, sisters or friends may be interested in getting together at this next SPFA Convention. in Austin, Texas.

Currently we have about a dozen gals that we communicate with regularly. We know there are many more of you out there and we would love to hear from you.

We look forward to sharing any plans for activities we are currently putting together for Austin. Without your registering we won't know of your interest. We need to hear from you.

You may look here for some background as to our origins.

You can go here to register.

Many among our group will be staying at the convention site here at this hotel.

Then please post a comment and let us know how you found us, any ideas or interest regarding this trip or any other.

Looking forward to hearing from you,

tammy

Origins II

2008-10-28T18:56:00.000-07:00

**Reposting the following post that ran last summer**

Welcome Ladies

In the early seventies spray foam industry pioneers held one of their earliest meetings in Atlanta, Georgia. Back then the group was called UFCA (Urethane Foam Contractors Association), and there were only a handful of members in attendance at the time. As the founding fathers set their agenda, the question arose,

"What are we gonna do with the women?"

Fella's being Fella’s; they set out to fix the situations and made plans for their gals.

Their ideas were good in theory, but then life happened...venues were closed, streets blocked off and the ladies found themselves revising plans and going it on their own. And so it has been ever since.

The fella’s come to conventions looking to hone their skills and build their business, while their better halves spend great deals of time alone, unless they’re fortunate enough to get together with other Women of Foam. Increasingly, many SPFA ladies have discovered friendship amid kindred souls who understand that mixing, rising, curing, coating, cooling and scarfing don’t always related to food!

Some 40 years later, SPFA has made many changes, not the least of which is its name. Membership continues to grow with well over three hundred companies represented in San Diego last March. 'Official' spouse tours are becoming a thing of the past, but the women have not been forgotten.

We industry gals have recently moved beyond the status quo and developed a piece of cyber real estate, called What We Gonna Do With The Women. The goal is to connect with as many wives, girlfriends, daughters or sisters as possible.

The welcome mat is laid out, and registration open. Registration is not required, but doing so provides the best method to reach all the Women of Foam.

**Please leave a comment, introduce yourself and let us know if you will be joining us in Austin next January**

And a little Nora Jones

2008-09-29T14:29:00.000-07:00

Hello Ladies!!

I have not forgotten ya'll and have actually been waiting on some men folk or at least one to send any other SPFA gals our way.

Anyway, while we wait for that to happen I think we better start sorting a few things out.

Again the Disclaimer: As stated previously and posted on the sidebar, this WWGDWW group is just our doing...we are not taking or expecting any funding from SPFA or members of the SPFA group....unless of course they just insist, twist our arms and well...then we'll reconsider.

For now though...we're on our own.

Comprende?

Good!

Okay....moving right along.

It's October girls, SPFA is January 11th -14th 2009.

The conference will be held at the
Renaissance Austin Hotel

Nancy has a friend or two who hale from Austin and I have a couple of pals that are collecting a list of things to consider as well.

If anyone else has any connections or information to add, now is your chance..please speak up, leave a comment or send me an email, then I'll post it so we can chat it up.

January will be here before we know it. If there are places you'd like to visit or things you're interested in doing, please share!!

I've added a few Austin links on the side bar.
Check them out and please leave some feedback.

I'll leave ya'll with this little Nora Jones video from her recent visit to Austin City Limits. Enjoy!

Repeating...Every 8 Seconds

2008-08-15T08:25:00.000-07:00

**Please forgive me if you read my other blogs.

I am duplicating my posts as this subject is worth redundancy**

A group of Siesta's from around the country and over seas, joined together to compile a 338 page cookbook.

Now this is not just any ole cookbook.

This grassroots culinary catalog has an abundance of delectable recipes, beautiful photography, plus an assortment of family stories and sayings to boot!

Take a look at the index to get a feel for what's inside.

Filet Mignon with Blackberries...Yum!

The real treasure is that all proceeds will be donated to Life Outreach International whose ministries include drilling water wells in third world countries, where every 8 seconds someone dies from a waterborne disease. Those effected most are children...many of whom die before they reach the age of 5.

With so little, we can do so much!

The Siesta created this book in honor of Beth Moore and the entire Living Proof staff, who are big supporters of providing 'Living Water' to the all the world.

Consider giving books for Christmas, Birthdays, Newlyweds, a Teachers gift...you get the picture.

The cookbooks are $18 each with an additional $6 for shipping. There will be a discount in shipping cost for orders of two or more books.

We've installed a little button on our web bar that will allow you to place an order for books with Holly of Crownlaiddown. Holly is the lead Siesta, who organized and produced the entire project, for her we are most grateful.

Once you press the 'Order Here' button, you'll be brought to an order form. After completing the form, press 'send' to have the information sent to Holly, who will then contact you with a total and various payment options.

Pass it On!

We quickly forward inspirational stories and videos via email all the time... as we lift prayer and praise for the content shared...this should be no exception.

Pass it on, let others partake of the blessing.

Plus it has the Old Town Mexican Ceviche

2008-08-14T18:36:00.000-07:00

-
Within the last few of months I've been blessed to be participating in a project with a large group of faithful women from all over the country. The work involves a cookbook with proceeds (after cost) being used to help build water wells in Third World countries villages around the world that don't have access to clean - disease free water.

This project is very near and dear to hearts 'round here. My eldest Grandchild actually held an organizational meeting with a couple friends in order to educate them as to the need in so many nations for clean, healthy water. Miss Kyra worked her buddies up so completely, that by the next day B was met at the door and handed a box of money, (some $14 and change) as the pint sized advocates had begun execution of a master plan designed the day before.

Curious?

Well, here's a few of their marketing plan sketches.

1) Go door to door.

2) Tell neighbors and friend about the need, how people in countries like Africa are calling out for help because their water is not healthy, it is dirty, full of disease and mud...it looks like 'choklet'.

3) The children drink it because they are thirsty, it is all they have and it looks like chocolate.

Note the children: One looks happy drinking her clean bottle of water, the other child frowns as she drinks her bottle of muddy water.

4) With your help, we can send trucks and workers with the tools and equipment to build water wells. Look at those happy workers!

5) Once the well has been dug and water begins pouring out, the people rejoice by singing and dancing as the blessings of fresh clean water rain down. ** I believe I recognize Beth Moore in this one, note the big hair.** Ms Moore is a big water well advocate.

6) Now these countries have clean disease free water.

7) The need is great...in countries all over the world. Will you help?

So there you have it. Basic marketing from 3 passionate kids.

Being part of such a worthy cause in itself is such a gift. That something so benign and inconsequential as a cookbook could be used in such a powerful, life changing way...is very humbling.

If you would like to learn more about the Siesta Fiesta Cookbook project, make a donation, maybe purchase a book for yourself or gifts, click the Siesta Fiesta Cookbook button on the side, it will send a message to Holly who will be delighted to help you out.

Bon Appétit!

Origins

2008-07-22T14:36:00.000-07:00

Registration Here

2008-07-21T14:33:00.000-07:00

Welcome!
Please complete this form making sure to hit submit when you are finished.

The information provided will only be used to notify you of special events, offers and opportunities afforded WWGDWW members.

None of the information gathered will be sold, loaned or otherwise distributed.

Sincerely,
Tammy
El Blog Moderator

As promised...2 days late

2008-07-09T14:03:00.001-07:00

Hey ya'll!
As promised, albeit 2 days later and after 3 days of sever weather, multiple power outages, including one for over 5 hours the recipes are being posted.

So that you all get a feel for the situation, from my home to yours, let me explain.

We have been communicating primarily via cell phone the last few days. Posting by cell requires a lot more dexterity and better eye sight than I am able or willing to put out right now, what with my grandson, mountain goat boy, climbing anything that stands still long enough.

It has been tense.

I have never dealt with a climber before. Leashes, duct tape and dog crates would aptly remedy the problem, but alas here in Georgia, we have large government agencies that frown on such things.

Just kidding, don't chah know!

Be warned: If you stop by our home, it looks like a closed diner, with all of our dining chairs and kitchen bar stools flipped onto table and counter tops. All in an attempt to keep the little fella from getting hurt as he's quick to climb as high and fast as his bitty legs will carry him.

His sister noted that Miss Sasha, our Skipperke, 'makes a better pet than a horse' to which we of course had to ask, "And you know this how?" The little man trying to ride the dog of course!

It's a dogs life eh?

Innocent looking, isn't he?

Yes...the recipes.

Well here are a couple of fish recipes that are pretty darn good. Don't let the fact that it's fish intimidate you. Fish does such amazing things for your health, hair and skin...and don't we love that? Besides, these recipes are so yummy.

One is our rendition of Ceviche similar to what we enjoyed in San Diego. I say similar, because this we added a couple things because made according to the recipe and directions given by our waiter, it was rather bland.

The other is my take on a wonderful Tilopea Pita served at the local country club where I have been attempting to learn to play golf. All you fish lovers must try this. It's so easy and with a side of fresh fruit salad, so good for you.

Ceviche
Ingredients:
2 lbs Halibut, Tilapia or other firm white fish fillets, cubed
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons fresh cilantro, chopped
1 habanero pepper, seeded and chopped
8-12 limes, freshly squeezed and strained to remove pulp,enough to cover fish
1 red onion, thinly sliced and rinsed

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients except red onion and mix well.

2. Place red onion on top and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 3-4 hours (24 if you are nervous) before serving. A large zipper bag works well for this. The trick is make sure the fish has turned white throughout.

3. Before serving, mix well and serve with lettuce, avocado or other cold salad vegetables on the side.

4. If you have a juicer, use it. If you want a good work out don't...your call. But, it's important not to tear the membrane of the lime as it will cause your juice to be bitter.

A word to the wise, do not tell first timers the fish has been cooked in lime, it taints the experience. Let them love it first, then explain preparation.

Enjoy!

Grilled Tilapia Pita

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon fresh chopped garlic
1/2 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 small(2oz.)can anchovies in oil
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
6 cups torn romaine lettuce leaves
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese shavings
1 1/2 to 2 pounds Tilapia-olive oiled with salt and pepper
6 Whole Pita bread pieces

Directions:

1. Coat the Tilapia with olive oil and dust with salt and pepper (or use fish or blackening spice for some heat, we used some from Bass Pro Shop)

2. Grill over high heat for about 4 minutes per side. The fish can be grilled ahead of time. Try not to turn over any more than once per side as your fillet may crumble. Of course, if it does you can still use it, it's just messier.
It's best served warm or at least room temperature, so plan accordingly.

3. In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, lemon juice, mustard, anchovies, salt and pepper. Blend until well combined. Slowly stream in olive oil until thickened, add grated cheese and pulse once or twice.
Place torn romaine leaves in a bowl or zippered bag, pour most of the dressing over the lettuce, toss well.

4. In a skillet or toaster, lightly toast pita bread to warm and soften.
Lay bread on plate, place a layer of salad, then fold pita and place a fillet inside.

Serve with remaining dressing to add as taste desire. Garnish with some Parmesan shavings. This recipe should serve about 6.

Please take note: This recipe calls for Tilapia, but like the first one, I'm sure it would be very tasty with other firm white fish. With all the 'Salads in a Bag' on the market, you can opt to use a Caesar versions to save time and trouble.

Please post or email reviews as you try these out, so we can compare notes.

Happy Eating!
Tammy

As we wait on the EPA

2008-07-03T12:46:00.000-07:00

Afternoon Ladies!

Just checkin in as I wait for some tech assistance from a dear and beautiful friend who really knows this web stuff and as it turns out, happens to be pretty big at the EPA here in Atlanta.

(shhh! we won't tell the guys we're cavorting with the EPA, no we wont!)

Oh, and did I tell you...she can sang!
Truly a woman of many talents.

We are lookin to add a form on this site, one that allows all the gals from our group to sign up. Those who know each other and those who we would like to meet. With information gathered, we'll be able to contact everyone who wants to be connected with this gang of ours in the way that suits them best.

For instance:
If you check your email no more than every 2 weeks, or as minimum required by many Internet services to (prevent deletion of your account)....then you may want to tell us to send important updates via your snail mail address. Just a thought!

You see there are some fun and exciting things we might want to share before our next SPFA get together this January, in Austin. We want everyone to be in the know!

Example: Would anyone be interested in scheduling a trip to a local spa and sharing some lunch? We are currently looking at a packages valued at $475...for say $50? We're talking massage, rejuvenating facial, anti-aging hand or face peel and eyebrow shaping with lip waxing plus more.

No one is saying weeze a very wrinkled and hairy bunch...no, no, no. Could we use a little pampering? I think I speak for a few of us when I shout, YEEES! Oh Yes we could!!

Anybody game?

I have it from a very reliable source anything our hearts desire will be within close proximity of this conference. Nothing at all like San Diego. Bare in mind, the afternoon of heaven on earth for $50 I speak of above, will only be offered here and in advance.

On another note, I have a couple recipes to share from our San Diego excursion. I will probably post Monday.

In the meantime, please click on the comment line and let us hear from you.

Happy Fourth of July Everyone!

US Open

2008-06-16T05:39:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Did any of you catch Tiger tear'in it up at Torrey Pines?

Well, not so much tear'in, but doin that Tiger thing.

Last shot thriller...did anybody see it?

Poor ole Rocco.

The head to head playoff is today.

Take a look... if you care.

Personally for me it was quite suite!

Until later,
tammy

Welcome!

2008-06-06T17:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome Ladies! After much consideration, angst and talking the matter through with a some very helpful tech buddies who set up cyber-pages for a living, this...

drum roll please!!

is what we have come up with... a blog.

For any of you unfamiliar with this medium, check out good 'ole Wikipedia at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blog
You will probably find out more about blogging than you ever wanted to know.

Let's face it ladies, women are all about relationships. Relationships matter to us whether with our fellas, children, girl friends, dentist, doctors, the bug man ...they matter to us. Our guys don't always get it, but nothing is so satisfying to most women as their relationships! Without them, we feel disconnected and lost. God made us this way, and true fulfilment of our purpose is through our connections with others.

That said, this blog should allow us to 'relate' in greater number and frequency than our usual once a year convention. Our hope is that this little endeavor will benefit us all in some way and truly help us relationship build...if you choose.

If not, just lurk around the edges, read the post and jump on in should we have any give aways or other goodies that interest you.

Throughout the weeks ahead you may be asked to share stories, ideas, expertise, opinions, photos, any number of things... all geared to add to your life, this industry and get to know each other just a little bit better, hopefully develop relations above and beyond what we do in a few days once a year.

Now it's your turn. Please share your thoughts, photos, topic ideas, what you've been up to since San Diego...you get the picture.

Oh, and as you do, identify yourself as you feel best. Post a photo of yourself... alone or not, with your family, fella, your dog...whatever works for you.

I am GratefulinGA,

Tammy, wife of Bruce, mother of David, Nichole and Lauren, mother-in-law to Elizabeth, grandmother to Kyra, Kylie and Kaden. Granddogs Kaiser and Sasha

SPFA San Diego 2008

2008-05-10T12:58:00.001-07:00