November 11, 2002 - Msg 10371: Dirty dirty me. I forgot to salute our Veterans on this sacred day. God bless you wonderful men and women who served and are serving.
Thanks for the kind words C.T. and 10368. But it don't take no talent to be kind, does it?
BTW Ro, the love you have for your plumster is so wonderfully expressed in your poem. You are one special lady and Sugarplum is one lucky furkid.

Asa
"YEA, BUT HE MIGHT OF BEEN HURT. HE MIGHT OF BEEN KILLED!"
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10372: Hey, I got talent after all. I know how to sweep.:)

Asa
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10373: Could you come over to my place, Asa? And bring your broom.
-Sterling Holobyte
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10374: Now Asa Dear.....You know good and well you have talent. Why dont you know me and the team think that you are 'bout the greatest coach there ever was? Who else would let us tote Little Debbies and Coca Cola into the outfield. Why, even our little mascot Plum thinks your the best, long as you keep bringing them carrots to the practices and the big games. Honey, we love ya and bein' loveable, that's a talent too! So don't sell your self short, ya hear?

Kinda feelin' poorly today so I think that I am gonna go get a cup of hot cider and snuggle down with a good book.

Hugs to all!
fun girl

A salute to all our veterans. You are the reason for our hard fought for freedoms. Pray for those who do not have the same.
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10375: Tserling doesn't know your talents with a golf club Asa - maybe you should have told him that your swing is so mighty that you "sweep!"

homemaker
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10376: Oopps - that should be Sterling! sorry, my tongue got wrapped around my eyeteeth and I couldn't see what I was saying!

homemaker
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10377: Wow, the porch swept in just 3 days this time. We had some long posts lately. Good morning to the porch, and have a good day!
- Hazel

"The real important stuff belongs to the Smith Brother's Institution in Washington, D.C."
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10378: Good Morning Porch and a salute to the veterans, living and deceased, of our great country. Without them there would be no America, period. There is nothing we could ever do to repay them but, we could start by paying these young people in the military what their services are really worth for once and give them top notch medical benefits! My daughter told me that at Pope AFB/Fort Bragg the services were worse than what welfare recipients are entitled to! In fact, the insurance they had required that she use some of the county services which are in the bad parts of Charlotte NC, miles from the base! What a way to treat the people and their families who are willing to sacrifice all for our lives and our freedom. Do your duty and tell your congressmen..... okay, just my little soapbox speech in honor of our future veterans. Who's turn is next on the speech agenda? I turn over the soapbox... :)
Hey to the Porch: Possum, Boo, Mrs. Wiley, Mavis, Happy, Helen, Mary, Frankie, Briscoe (where you been, boy?), Ellen, Homemaker, Hazel, Charlotte, Romeena, Sterling, Asa, Salty Dog, Fun Girl, NN, Des, MPO, Floyd, Jelsik, Jennie, and anyone who hasn't come vistin the porch for a while.... "Don't be such a stranger." God's blessings on you all for a beautiful day, ~Clara~


~Clara~
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10379: Ooops, gotta stop that stuttering! Get me some of those mulberry squeezins, that ought to help! ~Clara~Clara~ ;]
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10380: Asa, of all the notions, thinking you have no talent. You have a marvelous talent for friendship, encouragement, hospitality, and just generally making other people feel good. In many ways, you remind me of my dear husband, in your attitudes. Believe me, my friend, that is a compliment! After he passed away, one of my daughters summed things up nicely when she said, "Daddy was everybody's cheerleader." He, too, thought he had no talents, but admired and supported the things he perceived as strengths in others, and trust me, sometimes he was the only one who could see them, until he pointed them out. Then other people would begin to see them, too. He is sorely missed.
Charlotte Tucker, would you really publish that little old poem? I can't imagine that anyone would be interested, but since that's what you do, I guess you should know. I'd just be thrilled for you to publish it, and getting a picture of the Plum to you would be no problem. She has a Santa suit, and an angel suit, I have a digital camera, and emailing pictures is a snap. What's the name of the magazine again? I'm not sure I ever heard anyone say. I'd just be honored, really! Golllleeee! Imagine that!
Well, off I go, to Home Depot (my favorite store) for some lightbulbs. Those big old bulbs for recessed ceiling lights are nearly $7 in the grocery store, and are about $4 at the Depot. I usually buy about 15 at a time, about once a year, and it's time. Got a light out and no replacement. Everybody have a lovely day, and Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10381: Hello all! I had a house full of family over the weekend. Three bathrooms, no waiting. Good to see everyone today. Hey Fun Girl, If I gave you some "Junior Juice", Would that make you feel better? Hey ~Clara~, I'll send you some too, hon. Prayers for all.

Briscoe Darling Jr.
Hey ta':
All the veterans and thank you!
~Clara~
Fun Girl
Happy
Homemaker
CT
Asa
*Mavis
~Des~
An' everyone!
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10382: Hey to you Romeena.

Briscoe Darling Jr.

November 11, 2002 - Msg 10383: Well, howdy, Briscoe Darling Jr. It's good to see you. Sugarplum was wondering if you'd jug a little tune for her. Just don't do "Old Shep", though. That'un always makes her cry. (Me, too.) --Romeena
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10384: Awwwww Romeena, you got me all pumped up now. What a nice compliment. I know how you love your dear husband. I wanted to pass a thought to you on your light bulbs. I use the same type, and for a few dollars more you can get those flourescent screw in bulbs that produce just as much light as the others for a fraction of the energy used. But the thing I love about then is thet will last 10 times longer. They hardly ever burn out. Just a thought if you get tired of changing them as often as I did.

Asa
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10385: Friend's I come to you today with a very urgent prayer request, My Son in the service just called me and requested prayer for a fellow Sgt. who has benn going thru, some tuff times and today my Son recieved a call that the other Sgt tried to kill himself, and my Son is asking for everyone to remember this boy in our prayers, J said mom he needs all the help he can get, so have your church group and your Friend's pray for him. So I will give you his first int. only B .. ok, for God knows who he is and when you call out B ~ Ellen Brown's Son's friend God will know who your speaking of , ok . Thank you very much and God Bless y'all. My son's heart is heavy today for his Friend. Remember J. also.

EB
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10386: Ellen, I just read your post and I can assure you that I am praying right now. Jesus, give this young man, courage, hope, and the realization that he is mightily loved by You and that You have given him a wonderful gift, life. Help him to stop listening to negative thoughts and to understand that You gave Your life for him so that he may have life and have it more abundantly. Jesus, I also pray for Ellen's son, help him to be a source of strength and kindness to his friend and give him all the strength, love and wisdom that he will need at this time. Help him to know that You are there with him and that if he asks You will give him exactly what to say to his friend in his hour of need. Help all the other brave young men in his group that they may all be a source of courage and inspiration to each other and that they may, through this, form the toughest, strongest character that You desire them all to have. We ask this in Your name, Jesus, and we thank You for hearing our requests and for loving us all so much.Amen.
Mary Wiggins
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10387: God bless you Mary Wiggins, what a beautiful prayer, I called our Minister after my post and had him to place this boy on his prayer list, I too pray God help these boys to see Him (God) as their source of strength and see His devine hand at work in Jesus Holy name. Thank you so much for your prayer M Wiggins, this being aday to honor our Militaries, thank God B didn't succesed in his attempt. Remember B mother and father, the boys grandfather died while he was home this weekend and J said he was told this is what triggered this event with B,

Ellen Brown
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10388: Lord bless all our children, especially those who serve this country in the military because I am finally beginning to get a glimpse of their great sacrifice. Lord prtect and give them victory in all they put their hand to. In Jesus name, Amen.

Boo
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10389: Desperation can be a powerful tool and one that is not always a good tool. Praise God that the suicide did not happena and praise Him that he has a friend who believes that prayer can change things.
For those that offered up for me on Friday - I thank you. It was a really stressful day but after I shared with you all - I felt the burdens just ease away and we had a wonderful weekend.
Tom - you need to inspire us with a poem.

God Bless our military past and present. . .

homemaker
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10390: My goodness, how sad. That poor boy must be in terrible grief to do such a desperate thing. Grief can be very destructive, a crippling thing. When in the throes of grief sometimes it's not possible to think clearly, and one may do or attempt to do something that would be unthinkable at any other time. This boy definitely needs prayer, for the hand of an angel to intervene and keep him from harming himself until he is thinking right again. I'm grateful to God for providing him with a friend like J. Mary Wiggins, that was a beautiful, heartfelt prayer. If we have any porchsters who find it hard to word their own prayer, I think God would understand if they just read that one over. That's really no different than when we join in prayer at church, all hearts together as one person words the prayer aloud.
Asa, thanks for the suggestion regarding the lightbulbs. I read it after I returned home from buying a dozen of the other kind, but will keep it in mind for the next trip, or I may buy one and see how I like it. I do like the soft, incandescent glow from those 65W indoor floodlights, but I'll try anything once, especially if it's cheaper! Got my floods for $3.25 each at Target, though. Not too shabby.
Well, off I go. Threw my back out reaching into the car trunk a while, need to lie flat for a while until it releases. Nothing new, been dealing with it for years. Just annoying. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10391: Reaching into the car trunk a while ago, that is. Boy! Just stop and answer the phone and see what happens. --Romeena
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10392: My darlin' boys went to Jamaica with my parents for a week and after they had been gone for a couple of days my sister called to talk to them. Emory, who is 6, started crying cause he was missing him mommy. She said she could imagine how God must have felt when Jesus was on earth and so far away and knowing (that for our own good)there was nothing that He could do about His Son wanting to be at home. I imagine that would be the same for the parents of those in the military.
Prayers for B and family and J and all those who need them, and brothers and sisters...we ALL need them.
fun girl
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10393: I'm home porch! Seems like I was in that car for a week instead of 3 days! It's a 400+ mile trip. Pat is not doing much better at all, he has lost close to 50 pounds & looks bad. He is very & I do mean very weak, can't even roll himself over, he shakes like someone with Parkinson's disease & is extremely depressed. He is also having some problems with his mind, going into some weird episodes that we can't understand, thinks he is doing things (like driving, etc) when he is laying in the bed, then the next minute he is as coherent as you & me. Very scary, very sad & VERY hard on Jake to see him that way. Drs. say it is not brain damage, that this is normal for someone that was in ICU & on all the meds he was on for so long, but he is just like a little child in alot of ways now. Please continue to pray for him & for Jake he is having to do alot of growing up way too soon, he was trying to take care of his dad & is worrying about him so much. Not fair for a kid to have to do that! Makes me so mad, that one person can be so destructive for his own gain, & he probably doesn't even realize (or care) that he has turned so many lives upside down with that one shot & trying to steal from Pat. Anyway, I've talked enough, but wanted to let ya'll know I was home, & things are not looking good at all, my nerves are shot & I don't know how much more of this I can take! Pray for all of us & that I will find the strength to deal with this.
*Mavis
November 11, 2002 - Msg 10394: Ellen, my prayers for B, his family, your son, and all the people who were affected by this. Mary's beautiful prayer said it all and I join her in it. What a poignant message your request has brought on this day when we give thanks to those willing to leave family and ready to give their all to protect us. I always get a lump in my throat when I think of it... especially when I remember how very young most of them are; just kids who very much need our support and prayers while trying to do their duty under stressful circumstances.... God bless them abundantly and help them with every need. ~Clara~
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10395: Oh Mavis, I feel so bad for you, Jake and Pat. If I feel pain for you, and I am sure every one else on the porch reading your post feels bad for you, you can rest assured knowing that God has not forgotten about you, your family and the situation you are in. After all, He is the one who gives us the capacity for compassion, so how great must His concern for you and your family be right now. He does not want you to bear this burden alone and it is our job to bear the burden with you. I will be praying for you, that you will find your own strength useless, and shall have to turn to the strength of God to sustain you. I also pray that Jake will find the face of God through this situation and that he will realize the depths of God's love for Him, and that if he, too, begins to pray for his father, he will see miracles that will inspire him for the rest of his life to be a prayer warrior. And, of course, I pray for Pat, that God will clear his mind, give him strength, and that he will turn what the devil meant for evil to Pat's ultimate good and cause Pat to realize the truth that our lives are just a vapor, here for moment and then they are gone, and that we should use the gift of our life to God's glory. Mavis, please know that huge amounts of love and support go out to you and your family, from your friends on the porch, from your immediate family, and of course, from God Himself, who is waiting for you so He can comfort you and give you the gift of a gloriously restored hope.
Mary Wiggins
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10396: Oh, Dear Mavis, I am so sorry you are under such pressure. I would like to go ahead and pray for you, Pat and Jake now. dear Lord, I don't even know how to express how I am feeling. I am so concerned for Pat and Jake and Mavis. such a hard struggle for all of them. I know you are there and that you love them. Ease the burden somehow, Lord and give them your strength. Please help things to turn around for Pat and that he would recover fully in your time. Give them your peace and give Mavis much needed rest of soul and spirit. In Jesus name, Amen.

I would like to ask for your prayers, please. I and some others from my church will be leaving Friday for a mission trip to Mexico (just over the border near Brownsville). Please pray for safe travel and that people would be open to the message of the gospel. Thanks, my friends. You are loved.

Boo

November 12, 2002 - Msg 10397: Clara, I didn't see you sitting there on the porch. I certainly would like to wish you and all our other friends here on the porch a good evening. Well, veteran's day has passed here where I sit, and it has been a very poignant one at that. Causes me to realize that we all are veterans in a way, fighting the good fight. Well, maybe not veterans yet, because the fight goes on. I think that calls for a hearty breakfast tomorrow to sustain us for the battles ahead. I think perhaps, omelets with lots of cheese in them, some sausage patties with just the right amount of spice, and for those Irish folks like me, potatoes must be included in some form in most every meal, so how about O'Brien potatoes for breakfast! Coffee and juice, too.
Enjoy!
Mary Wiggins
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10398: Prayers for you Mavis, Pat, and Jake. We never know why... why things can't just go the way we think they should or at least as quickly as we think they should. I don't know. But, whatever the reason, I know God will prevail. Whatever the outcome, God will be in charge. Yes, a person lead by evil caused this to happen and that in itself makes us ask "why?". I guess it's a choice: good... or evil.... Evil always masks itself in garments of self-satisfaction and therefore will always have the upper hand with us... at first that is. This person who hurt Pat and as a result has hurt Jake and you too, will have the devil to pay... literally. It was his choice. Now Pat and even Jake will have to make their choices regarding all this. It can't be at all easy by any means. To choose faith, God, and a positive attitude about life after something this horrendous, requires a strength beyond human capability but then, that is exactly what God is here for.... keep reminding them of this, Mavis. I know you believe this or you wouldn't be doing all you have been doing in spite of the great hardship. You must be bringing great joy to God during this time as you do his work. I'll keep them AND YOU in my prayers. You are a good mom to go through this for Jake and a good friend to Pat. God bless you. ~Clara~
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10399: Mary, nothing could be better than that breakfast you have offered! Mmmm Mmmm! Sounds like my kind of breakfast.
Yes, it has been a rather touching day. It is a good thing though to realize things more fully. Today my older daughter and I took my hubby to lunch to honor him on Veteran's Day. I am so proud that when he was called (many years ago now of course!), he did his duty by "servicin his country" as Mr. Darling put it! We had never done that before, but after becoming more aware because of recent events, I know we will never take our military people for granted again. And I do agree as well, that we are all in a battle of sorts and maybe even for the same thing when all is said and done... freedom... including the our right to freedom of religion (NOT freedom 'from' religion as the ACLU would have us believe!) So, I'll take that breakfast and then I'll be ready to do my spiritual battle (if one should arise!).
See you tomorrow... sweet dreams, Porchsters. ~Clara~
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10400: Good night porch it is just 11:49pm at my end of the porch, Thank you all for your prayers today 11/11/02 and Mavis you, Pat, Jake and Cal are all in our prayers, God blees America (again)

EB
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10401: That is God Bless America ( again ) I'm half asleep. ((((((((((((Love to All))))))))))))))

EB
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10402: Wow. What strength there is here on the porch.
Mavis and Boo, I can't imagine anything I can say that hasn't been said already very well. Just know that I love you all, and pray for your well being, physically, emotionally and spiritually. And please let us know if there is anything we can do. Get some rest Mavis. Don't neglect that. You need your strength. And quit reaching in that trunk and hurting yourself Romeena! You rest too. Don't need you throwing yer back out on top of everything else.

Asa
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10403: It is time for more food on the porch!! I think we need some ribs - who has a good recipe for BBQ ribs!?
homemaker
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10404: Mornin' all! I think I'll scrub on a little "Dooley" fer ya': Here we go.

Briscoe Darling Jr.
Hey ta':
Fun Girl
Romeena
homemaker
Asa
Ellen Brown
~Clara~
Mary Wiggins
~Des~
*Mavis
Possum
Happy
Boo
An' everyone!
Prayers to all.
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10405: Thanks, Mary for that deeeelicious breakfast! Is that O'Brien potatoes recipe a family recipe? What is the "secret ingredient" that made them taste so good? With Briscoe serenading us (thanks, Briscoe, "Dooley" is one of my all time favorites) like that, it was a great start to a great day!
Homemaker, are you making ribs for supper tonight? Mmmm mmmm.... can't lose any weight coming to this porch that's for certain! I change my sauce every time but generally, I start by parboiling. Then I make my own sauce starting with the basic tomatoe sauce and use Coke, honey, or brown sugar for the sweetner, a little Tabasco for a little heat, and a couple drops of Wright's Liquid Smoke. When I cook, I usually just stand in the middle of my kitchen surveying my cupboards (like I said, I removed all the cabinet doors so I can see everything at once) with my basic ingredient in front of me in a bowl and then start adding whatever catches my attention. If it passes the sniff test, in it goes! I recommend experimenting... that's what I do and it's fun!
Asa, don't forget your bib... these are gonna be sauce-drippin, sticky, mmm-mmm ribs! and we don't want to send you back home all dirty now!
Hey to the rest of the Porch: Possum, Boo, Mrs. Wiley, Mavis, Happy, Helen, Frankie, Ellen, Hazel, Charlotte, Romeena, Sterling, Salty Dog, Fun Girl, NN, Des, MPO, Floyd, and anyone who hasn't come vistin the porch for a while.... "Don't be such a stranger." God's blessings on you all, ~Clara~


November 12, 2002 - Msg 10406: Asa - when you come and eat ribs - you mind your manners - no more belching, etc.
homemaker
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10407: Afternoon Y'all! Weather's been rather nasty around here lately,so I've been staying off of the computer. Rain,thunder,tornados,and even an earthquake! Yep,I believe we're in "the back of the Book." (Revelation) Just look at all that's going on now in the world.Enough said...
Boo,we have a moment of silence at school every morning and I've been using that time to say a prayer for your friend James.I'll continue to do so and Mavis,I'll also send up a special prayer for you,Pat,& Jake during that moment of silence.So sorry to hear of what y'all are dealing with. God Bless You all.
On a lighter note,I was a juror today in traffic court. The defendant was charged with crossing over the center line and driving under suspension. He chose to represent himself and for the most part did a good job. Think he's watched a lot of Judge Judy,or Court TV! Anyway,he was questioning one officer along these lines: " Now Officer Barney,why do you think that Officer Andy didn't put the blue lights on me as soon as he saw me allegedly cross the center line?Can you tell me why he waited until I was near the auto parts store?" The prosecutor for the state immediately objected with " Objection,your Honor! How can one person know what's in another person's head?" It was hilarious! The case was pretty much cut and dry -he was found guilty by a unanimous decision.Now,as a fan of TAGS,I've seen some doozies as far as court cases go,but this one really beat everything!
Well,time to make some supper,so I bid y'all a good evening! Take care!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10408: Me again.Overlooked something-prayers for your son's friend too,Miss Ellen.God Bless him.
******
possum
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10409: Eveing Porch! Thank you all so much, I knew I could count on ya'll to be there for me, that is why I come here & ask. Pat had to go in & have another feeding tube put in today seems his body is rejecting all the food he puts in it for some reason, he throws up as soon as he eats, & they have tried all kinds of meds to stop it, so they decided to just put the feeding tube back in. Haven't heard how he is yet tonight, will call later & see. Jake has made me so proud these last few days, what a wonderful boy/man I have on my hands here! He has come in & done his homework without my usual nagging to get it done, cleaned his room without being asked, washed the dishes & folded the clothes & tells me to "Relax Mom, I know you are tired & that you hurt your back Sat moving Dad in the bed, so I will do all the work here tonight" Made me cry, seems everything makes me cry here lately, so Briscoe PLEASE whatever you do, don't jug any sad songs, I'll be a goner for sure! Thanks again you all, you are the greatest & I know between the Lord to lean on & you guys to lean on I will get thru this.
((((((((((((((((((PORCH)))))))))))))))))))))
*Mavis
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10410: One more thing, if you ask my opinion, I think this porch was put here by God to bring all of us together to help one another. It sure has helped me alot of times in the last 4 years. Thank you Floyd for letting us have this porch to rock on! (and for fixing it when we get too wild & make it sway once in a while)teehee
*Mavis
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10411: Hey *Mavis, We are all here for you in your time of need. Since you help others so much, I thought I would jug "Sunshine Song" fer ya'. So just sit down, put your feet up and relax. Here we go.

Briscoe Darling Jr.
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10412: Yes, Kudos to Floyd. I didn't get a chance to sit out here yesterday and it just took me a half hour to catch up! Prayers seem to be in order for many--the young sergeant, Ellen Brown's son, Mavis, Jake, Pat, Fun Girl's boys, Ro's back and recovery, and whoever else I forgot. Mary Wiggins, your prayer was wonderful. You are a mighty good pray-er. homemaker, about those ribs...I'll come, I don't miss an outing, but I hate ribs. I like some barbeque but I hate ribs (as per Lydia from Lydia). Sorry. I'll bring some Pop Tarts and possum and I will be just fine.
Charlotte Tucker
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10413: Good evening, everyone! Mavis, it's wonderful to hear your account of Jake's recent behavior. You have been patient with him, and kept communication open, and he's coming through for you. I just knew he would. Sounds like you've got a very good kid there.
Prayers for all who need them, and they seem to be many. By the way, you all can stop bothering the Almighty with prayers for me. I'm fine. Surgical recovery going beautifully, back problem is just a chronic annoyance, nothing serious. Save those fervent prayers for those who need them!
MMMmmmMMMM! Do those ribs sound good. Unlike Charlotte Tucker, I love ribs. Fact is, I don't really know of anything edible that I don't like. Now there are some things I don't consider edible, such as insects, snails and the like, but I'll eat any fruit or vegetable you can name, and almost any meat you might offer. When I was growing up, my family had a garden where my grandfather grew about everything you could grow in south Texas, and I ate what was on the table at each meal. Didn't have to - if I didn't want something, I wasn't required to "clean my plate" unless I had served the plate myself. The rule was - you take it, you eat it - but if my mom had put something on my plate and I didn't like it, I didn't have to eat it. However, with the constant parade of good, plain, honest food that crossed our table, I learned to eat just about everything. I'm grateful for that now, and tried to bring up my own kids the same way. It worked, they all eat about anything. No short order cooks in our family!
Mercy, how did I get started on that?? Oh yes, the ribs. homemaker, I'll bet you make some outstanding ribs, and I'll be by for my portion, if you don't mind. I'll bring a very tasty potato casserole that I learned from my daughter-in-law. Really great! Clara, we must cook a lot alike. I, too, often start with a basic ingredient, and just toss and taste until I come up with something good. My kids used to call Friday night our Refrigerator Surprise night, because I'd clean out any left-overs from the week, dump it all together with something to bind and fill it, such as noodles or rice or hashbrowns, and there was supper. It was good, too. Put in enough garlic and onion, and you could make shredded paper taste pretty good! (teehee)
Well, off I go. Time for a little rest. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10414: Eveing porch, glad to see everyone out rocking here thru out the day. It has been a real quiet day here at my end of the porch, glad Mavis and Jake are home, I'm still praying for Pat and all. Ro's back, hey to all others prayers where theie needed. Happy Birthday and Anniversary to all havg them. God Bless y'all.(((((((((())))))))))))

Ellen B.
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10415:
Well,that does it for me- I vote that our next get together is over at Romeena's place for some of her Friday night shredded paper surprise! Sounds de-lish!
Mavis,I just got your e-mail and sent you a card in reply. Not sure if the card "went"-might've gotten lost in cyberspace. Anyway,please know that I'm praying for you and am only an e-mail (or Porch!) away if you need me.
********
possum under a rock
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10416: Thanks possum I did get the card & loved it! You people are so wonderful, & Briscoe that jugging was just beautiful! Thanks again, & know that I am adding all those on the porch needing prayers to mine when I offer them up, just put them all in there together, kinda like Romeena does her 'fridge surprise & I know that the Lord will make whatever He wants to make out of them.
*Mavis
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10417: Can I say something on on here without praying, or is that allowed?
I thought this board was about TAGS....
*Ted
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10418: It is about TAGS, but also about caring for one another & helping each other the way they do in Mayberry.
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10419: Hey does anybody ever go to Sarah's anymore? We used to have a ball in there!
*Mavis
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10420: Hey there, Ted! I don't believe we've met. I'm Romeena, and it's nice to meet you. Looking back over this particular page, I can see how you might feel like prayer is compulsory or something, but I assure you, it's not. It's just that we've had an unusual amount of hurts and challenges amongst our porchsters in the past couple of weeks, and as usual, we've tried to be supportive of each other. If you'll read back over this page, and maybe go back into the archives a ways, you'll see that we're really pretty well-rounded, and pretty near every subject that can occur in the human condition will pop up sooner or later. We have ball games, chili suppers, try to see Gone With the Wind and To Kill A Mockingbird, get sidetracked along the way, help each other put up Christmas lights, share recipes and secrets, have Mayberry trivia contests, have "quote-offs", work Mayberry references into our conversations if we can, and generally have a great deal of fun, all through the medium of our computers. It's a nice place to come to, this cyber-Mayberry of ours, especially when the real world gets difficult. If we manage to bear and share each other's burdens at the same time, well, that's just an added benefit. Give us a chance, Ted. I think you'll like us. We're prepared to like you.
Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
November 12, 2002 - Msg 10421: By the way, folks, here's a little tidbit I don't think I ever shared. Remember when we were having the gathering here at my house to watch TKAM? Well, my sweet granddaughter who lives with me right now had read over some of our posts, and actually asked me if I wanted her to vacuum, or make some refreshments before that evening. She was serious. She honestly thought that everyone lived in the area and the party was really going to take place here at my house. When I told her that the people involved live all over the US, and maybe all over the world, she was genuinely surprised. She thought it was a real hoot, and got a big laugh out of it. That's one of her charming points, the ability to laugh at herself. Well anyway, I thought you'd get a chuckle out of it, too. --Romeena
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10422: Funny stuff Romeena, I only wish it were true and that we could all just jet off to each other's homes for a "movie night" or a "chili night". Sigh~ Well, I am up a little late so I best just say my good night's! You all have a great day on the morrow!
Mary Wiggins
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10423: Hello Porch! and have a Mayberry Day.
FRANKIE FLINT
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10424: Mornin' Y'all! Romeena,that was cute about your grandaughter! Tell her a possum is coming by on Friday night for some of your Friday night shredded paper surprise and see how she reacts!
Well, I am off to prepare for work-everyone have a great day! Oh, I left some coffee and Krispy Kremes on the porch this morning- Enjoy!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock






November 13, 2002 - Msg 10425: G'morning Porch! Hey to Frankie Flint. That was a cute story Ro, remind her of it when she's 30.

~ Mrs. Wiley
Hey Asa, I just discovered the porch does record IP's, hehhehheh. Thanks Floyd. You're smart for a barber!

November 13, 2002 - Msg 10426: Didn't see you there under your rock, possum - thanks for the KK's! Just love 'em! ~ Mrs. Wiley
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10427: The KK's looked and smelled delish but I decided to do a last minute DIE-it before the real holiday food set in.
Have a good morning!
homemaker
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10428: Good morning porch, I see some early birds are up and about, I'm off to work, y'all have a Sonshine filled day God Bless you all (((((porch)))))). I don't have time for breakfast I over slept. LOL
Ellen Brown
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10429: Hello all! Doing some Christmas shopping today. It's my favorite holiday of the year.

Briscoe Darling Jr.
Hey ta':
*Mavis
Possum- Thanks for the KK's
~Clara~
homemaker
Fun Girl
Mrs. Wiley
Ellen Brown
Frankie Flint
An' everyone!
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10430: Morning Porch! Got the day off & gotta clean the house, how's that for a great day off?? If only I could get Mrs. Edwards to come help me out. teehee
*Mavis
Pigs been in here too, Paw?
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10431: Ah, *Ted. He/she goes way back on this chere porch. Someone's alter-ego I imagine.

"Sometimes I like to see a bat."
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10432: Really? I don't remember meeting <*Ted before, but then my memory isn't what it used to be. Someone's alter-ego, hmmm? Should we consult the Count? Since we're all someone's alter-ego here on the porch, does that make *Ted an alter-alter-ego? Oh, my, that gets too confusing for me. --Romeena
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10433: Afternoon porch, Ellen here, I need your prayers, my chest is really hurt the Dr, says everything is alright but it happens more often and hurts worse each time, he says nothing to worry about, but the pain is unbearable at times. I have 4 more hrs of work today just stopped in to ask for prayer. I think I'm just stressed out, I'm concerned about J going to war and I don't want none , (nobody) to have to go over seas. I know the last 5 generations in my family have fought in wars, I feel that is enough, I was hoping J would be the generation it skipped, but not so, maybe thats whats wrong with me, you think? Got to go, need to get back to work, 2 more clients and then I can come back home for the eveing until church,

Ellen B.
oh I'm sorry hey to all, Let God's Sonshine in your like today.(((((porch))))))
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10434: Hey to the porch. Sorry your ailing Ellen. You have my prayers.
Romeena, I can tell by your posts that you are getting stronger everyday. So glad for that. Give the plumster a squeeze from uncle Asa.
Hang in there Mavis dear. We are all behind ya. I won't even ask you to come clean my place when yer done. Now thats saying something.
Am I to late for some ribs? I love ribs. Make some more homemaker.

Asa
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10435: Thanks Asa yer a treashuh! I don't much care for cleaning anyway, but I hate the dirty house even more! I didn't get any of those ribs either, reckon they will make another batch for us? I promise not to get too messy & I'll even let Asa wash the dishes when we are done.
*Mavis
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10436: Oh, Ellen, I'm so sorry that you are going through such stress. I can't even imagine how I would feel if my darling son might have to go to war. But, I want you to know what it means to me that your darling son is willing to go. My son is only seven and maybe when he is older he won't have to go to war because of what your son is willing to do. Thank you for raising a great son who is willing to make that kind of sacrifice. I will pray today especially for J and for you. Hang in there! Love, Boo
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10437: Hey folks....BDJ, Mavis needs to hear a peppy song. Do you know, "Purty As A Speckled Pup, 'Cept Without Those Durn Fleas." A One and A Two.
fun girl
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10438: Okay Asa - I'll make some more ribs but it will be weekend because it is a 2 day process at my house and you will have to dive in quick because the 6 year old can eat his weight in ribs and he will fight you for them. Just try him - he has mean karate chop! (BTW - the 6 year old is 4'3", 55 pounds - tall,lean , fighting machine!!)

We need a song night - maybe we could get together at Mavis' and just sing and sing and sing. BDJ - bring the jug!

homemaker
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10439: Oh boy, a song night! Thats amazing homemaker. Thats just what I was gonna say!
ME THEY....ME THEY...MEEEE....THEYYYYY

Asa
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10440: Hey porch, Thank you Boo for those kind and beautiful words, Thanks all for the prayers I'm still in a little pain but not as bad, I stayed home from church, maybe I should have gone but I'm just so tierd, I don't miss to often. Went clear to Robinson last wed. night, it was a wonderful service. Romeena it sure is good to see ya posting reagular like again. I don't always post , but I read the post all the time. Mavis God just preformed a miracle for Lightning and I today and I know one is instore for you and Jake and all involed, my heart goes out to y'all. Homemaker may I pick up some ribs for Lightning
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10441: Oops I hit the wrong thing posted befor I was done LOL. Oh will so goes. 10440

Ellen Brown


November 13, 2002 - Msg 10442: What's this about an alter-ego on the porch? Better let me handle this. I got ways of making em talk. See this pitcher of water? Bet you're thirsty. If you talk, you can have a sip. Oh, you aint thirsty? Well, I got other tricks up my sleeve. Maybe you'll talk if I... Shine this light in your eye!!
- Hazel
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10443: Oh Hazel, you are a caution I tell ya! You make me grin from ear to ear. Thanks for the chuckle.

Asa
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10444: Good Night Porch

Ellen Brown
November 13, 2002 - Msg 10445: Hey porchsters! I was just kiddin' you about the ribs (well, not really) but I didn't mean to sound rude, I was just quotin' Lydia. No offense, homemaker. And hope Ro didn't think I was serious when she took that little jab at me back there. : ) Prayers for Ellen Brown. Hope you get to feelin’better real soon. Where's Tom hidin? Still no Dixie Belle and very little Salty! Hey Asa. Welcome, Ted!
Charlotte Tucker
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10446: Good night, Ellen. Didn't see you there.
CT
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10447: Good night and sweet dreams porch. Hope your feeling better Ellen.
FRANKIE FLINT
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10448: 867-5309

Jenny, Jenny
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10449: I've got something creepy to tell ya'll. I had a 46 yr old cousin who passed away last week. He lived in another state so I didn't go to the funeral. Well, my aunt is upset because at the wake, they saw my cousin's arm lift up and go back down again (slowly). Of course it freaked out the people who saw it and they went to the funeral director to ask if that ever happened and he said no. The body had been autopsied and embalmed. Has anyone ever heard of anything like that before? My aunt said before the funeral his right hand was resting on his left and at the funeral his relatives noticed that his hands were a couple of inches apart. Creepy, huh?

Boo
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10450: Halloween's over, Boo.
No, actually, my brother was a security guard at a hospital once and when he was in the morgue, he said he would hear some of the bodies breathe. When he asked about it they said it was just the bodies letting out gasses. Oh well, I guess it's better it came out there and not the other end or he'd really have some tales to tell me!
My point is, and I do have a point, is maybe that guy just had a left-over spark in his brain that had to get out. Human bodies are pretty complex. I can see how that would creep someone out though.
-Sterling Holobyte
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10451: Hello all! Hey Fun Girl, I can jug anything you want. Even banjer sounds. homemaker, I'll be more than happy to bring my jug. I can't wait to get a hold of some of them mouth waterin' ribs. Here is "Doug's Tune". Enjoy!

Briscoe Darling Jr.
Hey ta':
Fun Girl
homemaker
~Clara~
~Des~
*Mavis
Romeena
Mrs. Wiley
CT
Asa
Jelsik
Boo
Mary Wiggins
Ellen Brown-Feel better, hon.
Hazel
Sterling
Possum
Happay
An' everyone!
Whew! I'm tard. Lol!
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10452: CT - I can always do some BBQ pork for you or are pigs not your thing? At Christmas I'll be doing goat - so are up for BBQ goat?! Seriously. . .

homemaker
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10453: Good morning again! Well, I know I didn't say good morning on my first post, I just wanted to separate these posts. So, good morning up there, and good morning Boo! I hope you have a safe trip to Mexico and good luck taking the gospel to them. Be careful, and don't drink the water!
I've been busy the past couple days, shingled my parents shed one day, went to the Mall of America the next. While there, and against my better judgement, I let my wife talk me into getting Christina's(my daughter) picture taken at Glamour Shots. Normally I wouldn't have had a problem with it(Ok, yes I would have. Only because of the high price and then they always try to talk you into buying a more expensive package than the one you agreed upon.) but I did this time because Christina was so tired by the time we got around to doing this. She let the photographer take 4 pictures before she got very cranky. So we ended the session just before she was to take more pictures in a cute fairy outfit. We just ordered one of the pictures of her. She is smiling but you can still tell she's tired. And we paid $80 for this. Hopefully it will look better when we see the actual photo than it did on the little composite sheet.
Well, that's my little rant. But that problem is miniscule compared to others on the board I see.
Sometimes I lose track of all the hurts on here. Ellen Brown, I can't really say anything other than try not to stress out. I think Boo said it beautifully when she said, "maybe when he is older he won't have to go to war because of what your son is willing to do. Thank you for raising a great son who is willing to make that kind of sacrifice." I echo that sentiment, for my child, and for everyone's children.
I hope that Pat gets to feeling better soon Mavis! I do think, as the doctor said, that those weird episodes Pat has are not brain damage. It does sound like what happens when people are on pain medications. They tend to make you hallucinate, so I wouldn't worry needlessly about that.
All for now!
Have a good day!
-Sterling Holobyte

November 14, 2002 - Msg 10454: BBQ goat, Gracie?
Baaaaaaaaaaad.
-Sterling Holobyte
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10455: Hey homemaker, your not talking about Jimmy the goat are you? They was gonna BBQ him inside out! Had he blew it would have been more like goat stew I think. Just my 2 cents worth. I probably have some change coming to me don't I ? LOL

Asa
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10456: 'Morning, friends! Charlotte Tucker, sweet friend! Please forgive me for anything I said that could be interpreted as a jab. That's not my style, and believe me, would never be my intention. If you're referring to #10413's "unlike Charlotte Tucker" remark, that was in no way intended to offend. I did think you were serious about not liking ribs, and found a very funny way to express it, by quoting Lydia. My response was more in the nature of validating your right not to like ribs, and "Goody, goody, she doesn't like them, that leaves more for me!" Please, please don't ever think I'd take a shot at you, or anyone else for that matter. Certainly not intentionally anyway. And by the way, I gather that you really do like ribs, and I'm glad. We'll have to get together and whomp some up some evening.
Where is our dear Tom? He drops by for a few seconds, but doesn't stay. Tom, we need one of your poems. Have you forgotten about us? I know you've had a hard time lately, losing your mom and all, and we're all praying for you. Please don't go away and forget us. We need you.
Have a great Mayberry day, everyone. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10457: Afternoon Y'all! Asa,ya should've been in the funny papers!Reading your goat comments made me laugh!
Well,I don't know about the rest of y'all,but this has been a LONG week! Not gonna stay up on the porch too long because I need some down time.
Let me take a quick survey though: Anybody have the Christmas decorations up in their town yet? Coming home from work I noticed that the decorations were put up today in my town! Before Thanksgiving! Hey,they are getting better though,because one year they put them up the day before Halloween! I'm wagering that I'm the only one on the porch with a town decked out for Christmas on Nov. 14th!
Everyone have a nice evening!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10458: Yes, probably so. My dud town doesn't even decorate for Christmas. We don't have a main street, just a highway that passes through. People decorate their homes with lights and there is some kind of tree in front of the community center but that's it. I have always wondered why they don't put some lights on the telephone poles or something.

Boy, can I relate to your experience, Sterling. I had a very similar one a week ago. I took my two little ones to Penney's to have their pictures made to send in the Christmas cards this year and it was very difficult. My son was tired and after 4 pictures, my baby girl wouldn't allow any more! She absolutely refused to stay on the table any longer. I picked out one of the four shots but it isn't very good. Oh well. there is always next year and it only cost me 48.00 to be tortured in this way.

I've been busy. Baby girl has a cold and stuffy nose so she was up half the night last night and I have been trying to get clothes washed and get ready for my trip to Mexico. Better go get something done. Later...

Boo
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10459: Hey Possum. Most of the towns around here are in the process of putting up lights. I put up all my outdoor lights on the house 2 weeks ago. I did it early cause I don't like getting on our roof when there is snow and ice on it. Ain't turned em on yet. That is done officially the Friday after Thanksgiving at the Asa household. We make quite a spectacle of it, kinda like Sparky on Christmas vacation, drum roll and everythang. LOL
And of course I go help Romeena with her lights. She always has a nice warm meal for me when I go to her house. And of course the plumster is always there ready to help out. Quite charming, I must say.
I just love this time of the year.
Get some rest Boo and Possum so you'll be 100% for our song night.
Asa
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10460: Really Sterling - we will be having some BBQ goat soon. . . I wouldn't lie about goat meat. Since you are relatively new- we raise Boer Goats (a meat goat) and we sell the wethers to the locker plant. We keep the does for obvious reasons. So - it may sound like a baaaaaaaaaaaadddddddddddd joke but I'm real serious! Anyone for goat summer sausage? No takers - you don't know what you are missing!

homemaker
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10461: memememe they they they
alcupulco alculpulco
(spray) sniff (spray) lemon juice does wonders for the vocal chords!
ready for my solo ASA!


hm

November 14, 2002 - Msg 10462: Hey to the porch...Went to the Doctor up in Mount Pilot the other day and it was one of them specialists. Now this man is talking spinal fussion. I have been having back problems all along and they have just gradually gotten worse. So now I go and he has me all set up for an MRI on Nov 25 and a follow up (decision making) visit on December 13. Has anyone here on the porch had a spinal fussion. I ain't to sure that I am all fired happy with the idea, but then I ain't happy about the pain I been through neither. So if anyone knows anything about spinal fussion, I would appreciate it if you'd give me your opinion.
fun girl
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10463: I was reading the posts-wasn't planning on saying anything,but then I got to your post fun girl. My mom had a spinal fusion back in June. It's a very hard surgery (on the patient).Hers lasted for 12 hours but the doctor had to restructure a big part of her spine-from the L3 vertabrae- L7,I think it was.Before surgery,she was in terrible pain.I would have to get behind her and literally pick her "hind area" (that's for the old censor) on her right side in order to move her forward so that we could get her out to the car in order to get her to the doctor. The surgery was a success-as soon as the got her off the pain meds (morphine) which she was on for about 3 days,she could tell that the pain was GONE.She spent about 2 weeks in Rehab,came home with a walker,prgressed to a cane,and now can walk slowly around the house unaided. She's even begun driving around town-just can't do things like shop,walk distances,etc.
Has your doctor mentioned a laminectomy? That's a surgery in which they go in and basically clean up the trouble spot-remove bits of bone that might be impairing the nerves in the spine. She had that done in Sept. 2001.In her case it didn't do much for her. If your doctor is talking spinal fusion you most likely need more than that.
I've taken up a lot of space here,I know,but I'm trying to help someone. If you are in terrible pain fun girl,you may have to have the surgery. Just know that it is a big deal,a long recovery,and you 're gonna have to go through something (meaning more pain) in order to get better-pain free.
Let me steer you to a GREAT website.Explains what will happen before,during and after surgery from the patient's point of view. Check out www.spinalfusion@hypermart.net
Take care of yourself and hope I've helped you out some.
My apologies to any Porchster (besides fun girl) who muddled through this!
Take care everyone!
*****SMILES*****
"Doc" possum under a rock
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10464: fun girl,I haven't looked at that spinal fusion website in awhile-think I typed the addy wrong. Try this:
http://spinalfusion.hypermart.net

*******
possum
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10465: fun girl, while orthopedics isn't my area of expertise as a nurse, still I've been around long enough, and know enough about it, that I can add a big "ditto" to what possum said about it. I wish a microdiscectomy would be effective - that's one back surgery that is a gold-plated snap, and really does the job. However, if you have something going on that is causing your doc to talk about a fusion, then I'd recommend that you don't delay. I woould, however, get a second opinion. I don't know your physician, he/she may well be the finest in the field. I hope so. Still, a second opinion is a perfectly reasonable procedure. After all, it's your back. If the second opinion confirms the first one, then get in there and get it done.
Have a great evening, friends. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
November 14, 2002 - Msg 10466: Hey fungirl, I blew out a disc several years ago in my back. The pain was incredible. My Dr. highly reccomended that surgery be a last option. He told me that those who have surgery, 25% will improve,25% will be worse off, and the remaining 50% are about the same. Not very good odds I think. I also have a friend who many years ago had a fusion done and has been back in for 5 more operations. He wishes he never had it done. Said each surgery has made him a little worse. On the other hand my son had a laminectomy done and was worse off so 2 months later had a fusion done and is feeling much better now. Bottom line I guess is what the problem is, will surgery help? I would suggest you take Ro's advice and seek out a second or even a third opinion. It is major surgery as possum said and should not be taken lightly. Have you seen a physical therapist? I swear by them guys. The one I saw specialises in backs and did wonders for me. I still have to be very careful what I do, but I can at least move around ok and still work. What ever you decide, God bless you dear. I know how back problems can cause upheavel in ones life in a major way.

Asa
November 15, 2002 - Msg 10467: Wow, how did you "blow out a disc", Asa? I have friend who has had two surgeries, the last being a spinal fusion, I think. It's been months and she is still trying to recover. Last I heard she wasn't doing much better. Sure hope it never happens to me. I did alot of lifting when I was working as a nurse but so far, no real problems. Sometimes I have that sciatic pain that runs down my leg, but not often. I knew a nurse who was so bad, she lost bladder control from a disc problem. Scary.

I am up at 3am after baby girl woke up. She is till pretty stuffy and can't sleep well. I was hoping to get a good night's sleep before Mexico. Oh well...would ya'll try to remember to say a prayer for our trip today? thanks. I am going to turn in and try to get some more sleep.


Boo

"Andy, pleeeeease tell me a story!"-Otis