December 18, 2002 - Msg 11077: Hey FunGirl, you'll be fine as long as your Dr. dosn't have an office in the back of a store. Don't want folks to start calling you the beaver.

~ Mrs. Wiley

December 18, 2002 - Msg 11078: Best Wishes Fun Girl - Hope your doctor is purty! I like purty men!
Welcome Brian - we are expandable here - just look at Asa's waistline! With the way he eats and burps, you would think he was born in a barn!
Did you like the fudge Asa?

Talk to you all later!
December 18, 2002 - Msg 11079: oops - that was from me. . .homemaker
December 18, 2002 - Msg 11080: Mornin'! Hope everyone is fine today. I feel like I could sleep for a week. Just plain tired for the last week. Too much holiday preparation, I guess. I went to the store yesterday to get what I needed for Christmas dinner and I took my dad along because he wanted some help with his shopping. There were so many people in the store! Dad was up ahead of me a ways and I called, "Dad!", to get his attention and three old guys turned around. I guess I must have sounded like one of their kids. I ran into several friends and neighbors. It was a real social event. I am one of those crazy fools who likes to go to the stores at Christmas time. All the people make me feel festive.

I told ya'll that I had to hook up a new keyboard after the milk spill. Well, yesterday, one of the neighbor kids carried a bowl of smarties (candy) in here and spilled them on the keyboard and a bunch of little crumbs went down between the keys! It still works but some keys are harder to push.

What do ya'll think about sharing your Christmas memories since Christmas is only a week away? I thought it would be nice if we all shared a special Christmas memory while we sit around here on the porch. We also need to have us a Christmas party this weekend and have a white elephant gift exchange. How about it? We could rent a room down at the Diner and have it catered. They make pretty good tuna surprise. What do ya'll think?

gotta go do some chores!

Boo

Boo
December 18, 2002 - Msg 11081: Oh, and after the party, we can go sing Christmas carols to Fun Girl in the hospital! Meeeeeeeetheeeeeeeey

Boo
December 18, 2002 - Msg 11082: I don't quite understand how or why I signed my name twice above. I think I need a real vacation.

Boo
December 18, 2002 - Msg 11083: Goober:"JUDY,JUDY,JUDY"Gomer:" See that Andy he sounds just like Cary Grant"!Gomer:"Go on Goob show Andy how you can walk like Chester"!
December 18, 2002 - Msg 11084: Hello all! Hey Fun Girl, I'l sneak in a few of my jugs for you. You know, to merry up Christmas a little. Prayers hon.

Briscoe Darling Jr.(Dave)
December 18, 2002 - Msg 11085: Afternoon Y'all. A Christmas party and caroling in the hospital- whoooo weeeee! I'm up for it,just gotta get my voice back. As that little kid says in one of those medicine commercials " I think my throat has a horse." Might be a good thing though,cause I can't sing-not a lick! Sure do like to talk though. If my voice isn't back by time we go caroling,maybe homemaker can teach me how to sign a few songs in sign language! Think I'll stand next to Asa and his bongos-fun girl will really need those jugs of Briscoe's with all we're planning for her!
My thoughts and prayers are with you fun girl. You'll do fine.Trust the Lord and your doctors.
Well, gotta go stir some spaghetti sauce. Hope everyone has a great evening!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
December 18, 2002 - Msg 11086: Boo, dear, I do believe someone has jinxed you when it comes to keyboards. Can't think of an incant for a jinxed keyboard, but I've heard that canned air can blow away a hex. It's available at computer stores. I hear it works best if you hold the keyboard up so it's vertical rather than horizontal, then hit it with that hex-removing canned air. I've heard you can see the little hexes just come flying out of the keyboard. Might work. Yeah, but it might not. Anyway, it's probably worth a try.

One more night at work, then am off for four. Hooray! Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 18, 2002 - Msg 11087: Thanks, Ro, I think my hubbie just might have some of that canned air(if not, I am sure my mother-in-law does. No, wait a minute, she's got alot of hot air, not canned air). Just kidding, of course.

Well, If you are off, Ro, you can come to the party down at the diner. Can I pick you early so you can come and help me do a little decorating?

Well, I guess I will have to start things off with my Christmas story. This is a true story about my great grandmother, Victoria Montgomery. When she was young and had five small children, her husband was killed in a mining accident in West Virginia. They pulled him out of the cave- in alive but there was no hospital to take him to so he had to wait at home until the train came in the morning. Well, he didn't live that long and Victoria was left to care for five small children and no income. She was a Christian and depended on God to help her and he did (this was way before welfare). One Christmas when her youngest two girls were about 4 and 5, the little girls were convinced that Santa would bring them dolls for Christmas. On Christmas Eve they sat their little chairs beside the bed for Santa to leave their dolls. Victoria was heartbroken thinking of her little ones waking up to find no toys for Christmas. She went into the living room and sat down in the rocker and cried. After awhile there came a knock on the door. It was her younger brother who she had not seen in a very long time. He had come to surprise her on Christmas. When Victoria told him about her sadness over the children, her brother went into town to the general store, woke the storekeeper and made him let him into the store to buy presents for the children. So, the little ones were right and woke up to find two beautiful dolls beside their bed.

Now, that was my Chritmas story.
Who's next? I can't wait to hear your stories!

Boo
December 18, 2002 - Msg 11088: Beautiful story, Boo. I'll be looking forward to the party at the diner, and yes, please come by early. I'd love to help you decorate. Sugarplum will be glad to help, too. She has spray-painted some carrots in red, green and gold, and was wondering if you'd have a place where she could display them. She said she'd string them if that would help. They're really quite pretty. She put a little glitter on them while the paint was still wet.

I have a Christmas story or two, but have to leave for work right now, so will post them later. Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 18, 2002 - Msg 11089: I just come in for some foot powder.
December 18, 2002 - Msg 11090: Hey to Ro and Boo and FG!

Ang: "Barn, are you cleaning your gun again? Why you aint fired it not one time."
Barney: "I ain't fired it but I've been pointing it alot."
Ang: "Yeah, I can see how that would get it dusty...'specially if you're pointing it into the wind."

~ Mrs. Wiley

December 18, 2002 - Msg 11091: Christmas memories, huh? I can remember one year when I couldn't have been more than 5 and my parents went all out that year. We got the deluxe aluminum refridgerator sink and stove and a lovely plastic dish set that must have had a hundred and eight pieces to it. Plus dolls and baby beds and toys galore. Looked like Santa's workshop had done exploded all over our living room. Well right after the opening was done we went in to have breakfast and I was asked to say the blessing over the food. Well I just started to bawl. When mama asked me what was wrong I said I didn't know what to play with first. We don't have that problem with the kids now days, they rip open the presents and ask where the next one is.

Another Christmas I remember is when my mom got a job at Arbys beside her full time job. So essentially she was working two full time jobs so she could afford to buy our presents. I got a Bible that year that I still have. Almost always brings tears to my eyes thinking of that Christmas. But all three of us girls agreed that we would rather have her home in the evening with us than gifts under the tree. So I guess that my family is my most precious gift.

"All that I wish for and all that I hope for and all that I'm longing to be. My precious family is more than an heirloom to me." --Amy Grant

Peace, Merry Christmas, and thanks for all your prayers.

With much love,
fun girl (Penny)
December 18, 2002 - Msg 11092: Hold on to those sweet thoughts, FG. I would like to say a prayer for FG. Dear Lord, give her peace that passes understanding and joy that overflows! Guide her every moment and give wisdom and skill to the surgeon who will work on her back. Please grant her a speedy recovery and as she is in bed for awhile, just let her have sweet fellowship with you and other believers. Make it a good Christmas for her no matter what. We thank you for being with her all the way. In Jesus name, Amen.

Boo
December 18, 2002 - Msg 11093: Hey Porch, any one know where Mavis has been? Sure do miss her posts!

Well, here is my Christmas story...

When my 4 siblings and I were all young, my parents would by us all gifts and then have to fine a place to hide them from 5 sets of prying eyes. One year they chose a spot under a desk they had in the basement. They even nailed some peg board up in front of it,(like we wouldn't notice THAT!). Well, Christmas was but a few days away and the weather reports were predicted flooding rain, which was rather unusual up here in Michigan. One of us genius kids asked our parents what if our presents get flooded?! I can tell you they were pretty mad that we had been snooping. I don't know where they moved that cache to, but we got all our gifts Christmas morning, dry as a bone!

I'll be praying for all those that need it, seems joining this here porch has increased my prayer list, but praise God, it causes me to spend more time with Him!

Have a peaceful sleep and a great day tomorrow!
Merry Wiggins
December 19, 2002 - Msg 11094: Good morning Porch! Have a wonderful Day.
FRANKIE FLINT
December 19, 2002 - Msg 11095: Well folks, it's 4:37 a.m. and I am preparing to leave for the hospital. Thanks Boo for the beautiful prayer. I appreciate all those who are praying on my behalf. I hope to be chatting back on the porch soon. I will have Mr. fun girl pop on in the next day or two and let ya know how things went. Always remember, that's how important you folks have become to me. Like a true family.

With much love,
fun girl
December 19, 2002 - Msg 11096: God bless Fun Girl. Return soon.

Asa
December 19, 2002 - Msg 11097: I'm lookin' forward to the party Saturday night. Briscoe, I'll bring the eggnog, you bring the squeezin's!

Yes, Ro, tell Sugarplum she can hang her festive carrots.

Maybe we can play some charades and don't forget to bring that white elephant gift that you want to get rid of!

I think I will go veg out on the couch for awhile. My son is sick with a fever and cough so I have been up tending to him most of the night. My children are healthy but because they aren't in day care and my son is homeschooled, they have not built up alot of the immunities that other kids have so they catch everything! I just hope they both have it and get rid of it before Christmas. Having sick kids on Christmas is no fun at all. "That's not what I had in mind at aaaaaaaallllll."-Andy (remember the "win your girl, lose your eye episode?"). Hilarious!

Well, the couch is callin' me.......

Boo
December 19, 2002 - Msg 11098: Christmas is almost here. Think I'll go down to Weavers and see what he has in gifts. Then come home for andy's homemade egg nog. Anyone see Barney?
December 19, 2002 - Msg 11099: Hey porch
a lot has been going on , I'm trying to catch up on my reading at the porch, I'm way behind. Fun Girl my prayers are with you, come home soon, say Boo Boo a party sounds fun and memories to shear is a great ideal, sorry to hear your son is ill. Ro how is SugarPlum, Pollyanna say to tell her Merry Christmas. I had a short day today so now I'm going to bake cookies , make candy, wrap gifts, but first I'm going to rest a few mins. and listen to Live 365, thats where I listen to my Christmas music at. God bless y'all

Ellen Brown

Lots of Luck to you and yours
December 19, 2002 - Msg 11100: Christmas is almost here. Think I'll go down to Weavers and see what he has in gifts. Then come home for andy's homemade egg nog. Anyone see Barney?
December 19, 2002 - Msg 11101: Howdy, everyone! I saw Barney about an hour ago. He was in the alley back of the jail, practicing his "ho, ho, ho's". Sounded a bit high and thin to me, but maybe if he puts a "Poo" on the end it'll sound better.

One of my favorite Christmas stories took place when our oldest son, who is now 43, was only three years old. We were poor as church mice in those days, hubby just out of the Air Force, shaky job, whatever. Anyway, we had scraped up our money and bought our son a little tricycle for Christmas. There wasn't going to be much else from Santa, so that trike was pretty important. We had our Christmas Eve with my family after services at church, and got home very late. We put our little boy to bed, and when we were sure he was asleep, my husband got the box out and started to put the tricycle together. Would you believe, it only had one rear wheel! The other one just simply wasn't there. Now how do you explain to an almost-three-year-old that Santa left him a two-wheeled tricycle?

I was in tears, and my husband was feeling pretty grim, as you can imagine. We had bought the trike at Gulf-Mart (Booand De§, do you remember them, in San Antonio?) and of course the store was long-since closed, since it was about 2 a.m. Nevertheless, I called the store anyway. The phone rang until it finally cut itself off. I tried again, and again it cut off after about 20 rings. I was crushed, but my husband insisted I try once more. The phone was answered on about the 20th ring, by a gruff-voiced elderly man, who informed me without even a hello, that the store was closed. I told him I knew it, but would he please let me explain my problem? He agreed, heard me out, and was silent for a few seconds. Then he said, "Little lady, you tell your husband to come on out, drive around to the back of the store and ring the bell by the back door. I'll take a wheel off the display trike, and he can have it." That's exactly what happened, and my husband finally got into bed about ten minutes before our son woke up and raced to the Christmas tree. There sat the tricycle he had dreamed of, and he never knew what "Santa" went through to provide it.

The point of this story, of course, is that my son's happy Christmas morning was due to the kindness of a man who understood, and took a chance on us. We could have been setting him up so we could clean out the store, but he took the chance anyway, and a little boy was thrilled on Christmas morning because of it. Christmas - the season of Love and Kindness.

Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 19, 2002 - Msg 11102: Afternoon Y'all. Thought there might be some news on fun girl,but I guess it's too early yet. I know she'll come through okay.
Ro,I love the story of the two wheeled tricycle.Thanks for sharing it.
Prayers for all affected by the tornado that hit near Meridian,Miss.I found out that my nephew's children had been in that Walmart with their grandparents just before the tornado came through.I certainly thanked the Lord for sparing those precious children.
Well, I'm pooped from Christmas parties at school,so I think this is one possum who's gonna hit the ironing board early tonight! Y'all have a great evening!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
December 19, 2002 - Msg 11103: My Christmas Story
By Asa Breeney
One Christmas Eve while I was working as a guard at a department store down in Texas I get this call at about two in the morning from this lady who was really upset about this trike she had bought that was missing..... HAHA, Sorry Ro, couldn't resist. What a wonderful Christmas story that was and what great parents you and your husband are, God bless you both. I just love it when you talk about your lifes experiences. You are very much fun to listen to.
Hi possum. Better get some rest I'd say. Them party's will wear on ya after a while.
I to have wondered where Mavis has gotten off to. Her and Hazel and Salty musta took off to Mexico maybe?

Asa
December 19, 2002 - Msg 11104: Hey, Asa! If that had been you, I know you'd have done exactly what that gentleman did for us. I've always been grateful to him, and wanted to let the store know how helpful he had been, but my husband feared that the store wouldn't appreciate it like we did! They might have fired him for opening the door in such circumstances. Anyway, God knows the man helped us. I'm sure He found a way to reward him. Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 19, 2002 - Msg 11105: Great story, Ro. Now Asa, I know you can come up with a Christmas story for us. Put on your thinking cap, Honey! As funny as you are, I know you have a funny story for us.

Went to help out at the Salvation Army toy give away tonight. Some of us did a puppet show for the kids. Great fun. The county I live in is made up of several small towns and there are many families on welfare so there was a huge turnout and the news cameras even turned out to do a segment for the ten o'clock news. I haven't watched it yet but I am hoping to get a peek at myself with my Santa hat on.

Well, it's almost ten o'clock now so I had better go turn on the TV. I watched TAGS tonight on TVLand it was the Opie's Charity episode. I love that one! (poor Horatio). Later, Mayberry Lovers--

Boo
December 19, 2002 - Msg 11106: Hi All. Will thing are not just right here .
one of my brother is in the hosp what heart parm and maybe there for the holiday,
the holiday for me will not be a happy one what out mon being here but i have her in my heart all the time.
i am not going out for the holiday staying home and i no not a thing for me, but i knew that was going to be.
Why Friendship is so Special.
a friend is like finding a treasure,
like discovering a seashell along the shore,
and they fill the emptiness ofthe heart
with happiness galore!
a friend is considered extra-special;
someone who's loyal and cares
when our heart seems to be breaking
and life's cupboards are empty and bare,
they hold out a hand and hold on
even if distance separates and sends away,
for there's a warmth that ever lingers-
between true friends it forever stays.
friendship is sacrificing
for another who's precious to you.
it's offering a small portion of yourself
cause your heart tells you the right thing to do.
a friend is a smile, a cheer or two-
someone who listens with love.
you know you've discovered a friend nearby
when it feels as if an angel was sent from aove.
friendship is so special
and i believe it was created on earth
to reveal that all are precious-
it brings out true values and worth.

happy holidays
TOM.
December 20, 2002 - Msg 11107: Morning Porch. That was very nice Tom. I am sorry about your brother. I pray for his speedy recovery. And I pray for your happiness this Christmas season. I know there is an emptiness there for you, but as you said, she is there in your heart. Please know that you have many friends here for you on the porch. We think highly of you and pray for you. God bless friend.

Asa
December 20, 2002 - Msg 11108: In response to message 11103, Asa, you are a caution! You know that? A caution!

I loved Ro's story too, so tender hearted of that man to take the time to help you out like that. And then I read Asa's and start laughing out loud!

Tom, thanks for visiting us again and gifting us all with another one of your poems. They are so inspirational. I hope all goes well for your brother, and I express my sympathies to you on the loss of your mother. She will always remain in your heart now, and I am certain with a son as thoughtful as you, you were a great comfort and source of joy to her throughout her life.

Well, I have to go fight the "crows" one more time and finish up my shopping so I better scoot!

How's about some farmer's omelets and country fried taters along with a big jug of orange juice and steaming hot coffee!

Merry Wiggins
December 20, 2002 - Msg 11109: Hello all! Have a Mayberry Day.

Briscoe Darling Jr.(Dave)
December 20, 2002 - Msg 11110: Hi, Tom. I hope you experience an unexpected blessing this holiday season. God's presence be with in a great way.

Asa, I'm still waiting.......................

Where's my story?..........

Boo
December 20, 2002 - Msg 11111: Golly Boo. I hate to bore you all with my stories. But seeings how you asked... One Christmas Eve as I slept I had a dream that someone snuck into my room... someone I used to know... and told me to expect three visits during the night! (gotcha)
The only serious contribution I can make here is that I have tried to keep all the traditions alive that I enjoyed as a child for my children to enjoy also. Some have worked out, others we have created new traditions. For example when I was growing up our family always had a big Christmas dinner on Christamas Eve. Don't know why, they just did. So when I married and started having babies, I tried to do the same thing, have a big Christmas dinner on Christmas Eve. The problem was my kids would be so excited at the prospects of Santa coming they would acyually make them selve's ill and not be able to eat. Of course it didn't help when we were all sitting there eating and I would fake hearing something bumping around on the roof. Hmmmm, Santa must be early this year I'd say and they all take off running to there room screaming. I would laugh but Mrs. Asa didn't take to so well, her dinner going to waste and all. So now we have the more traditional Christmas day meal with the family. But Mrs. Asa and I always have a special little dinner for ourselve's on Christmas Eve while we watch A Christmas Carol on tv. Been doing that now for 20 years. Even though our young-uns are growed in to teen-agers now they still like to go to bed early on Christmas Eve and watch Christmas videos in there bedroom. They are so funny that they still do that but thet refuse to break tradition. Well, sorry, I told you it was boring. LOL

Asa
December 20, 2002 - Msg 11112: Wow, check out all the 1's in my last message number. Do I get a prize?

Asa
December 20, 2002 - Msg 11113: Sorry, no prize, but i liked your story. I didn't think it was boring at all. Thank you. I have heard about alot of folks having a big dinner on Christmas Eve and I always wanted to but we have both our families in the area and traditionally we spend Christmas Eve with my family and Christmas day with my husband's. We always go to my parent's house and have things like sandwiches and homemake goodies (and always eggnog-no squeezin's) and we let the kids open some presents. A couple of years ago I had everyone over to our house on Christmas Eve and I made a big pot of crab chowder and a big pot of cheesy broccoli soup. It was a nice change but my redneck husband was pouting because there was no sandwiches!

This year we will go to the Christmas Eve service at the church and then to my parent's house. Then we will have Chritmas dinner at our house on Christmas day. My little boy will be anxious to try out his new roller blades and scooter in the neighborhood. He is still feeling pretty sick with a terrible cold so I am just waiting for baby girl to get it!

You know, yesterday I thought about ya'll when I was in the Dollar Store because I saw some moon pies for sale. Chocolate and Banana. Do ya'll have a Dollar General store in your location? Great place.

better scram.....later

Boo
December 20, 2002 - Msg 11114: Remember tomorrow night. The diner. Be there. Ho Ho Ho.

Boo
December 20, 2002 - Msg 11115: Hey, what do monkeys sing at Christmas time?
"Jungle Bells, Jungle Bells!".

Boo
December 20, 2002 - Msg 11116: My Christmas memories revolve around Heath Bars - I have told this story a million times but anyway, growing up we lived i the country (still do) and there were only three houses on our stretch of the road and my parents were the young couple with children, the other two houses were elderly people with no children. Well, my parents did a lot of things for them (mow the yard, etc) and they reciprocated each year with a box of candy (that was heaven for us children). One year it was a BIG box of Heath bars and my mom and dad made it last as long as possible - so the divided it up one Heath bar at a time. So, this year a friend of mine without knowing it gave me a Hershey symphony chocolate bar with toffee - needless to say - my Christmas memories have flooded back to the old home and to the wonderful neighbors we had as a child. The End

homemaker

December 20, 2002 - Msg 11117: Hey guys, sorry I'm late in posting again, been sick twice this week, thanks to my husband aint he wonderful? My Christmas stories are pretty boring too. Dont really do a whole lot. Christmas will probably be a little sad this year since my Grandma died. Wont be Christmas without going to her house on Christmas Eve night. But I have two Christmas parties to go to tomorrow night so that might bring up some pretty interesting stories maybe. See you all later on--Salty Dog
December 20, 2002 - Msg 11118: Thanks, Homemaker!
December 20, 2002 - Msg 11119: Salty and Tom, I hope you will both find some blessings (unexpected, It's a Wonderful life blessings) this season.
Please be in prayer for a fellow teacher friend of mine, she has been diagnosed with a fast growing breast cancer and she will have surgery next Friday. Although her children are grown, they rely heavily on her. Her best friend/like a sister died with cancer 6 years ago and she is scared to death of this same fate. Her friend really suffered. It was a blessing when she passed on for her suffering ended. Any and all prayers will be appreciated.

hm
December 20, 2002 - Msg 11120: The prayers are going up, homemaker! I've really had some catching up to do. Been busy with Christmas get-togethers and my son's party at school. Tomorrow we will go to a party at the nursing home my 92-year-old uncle has just entered. He's getting along pretty well so far. I think ya'll know how we're a basketball family (my hubby's passion). Well, my son won his grade's free throw competition and gets to go compete in a nearby town Jan. 4. I'm mighty proud of him. My daughter went last year. I am so slow gettin' my Christmas stuff done. Still got candy to make and a handful of cards to mail out tomorrow. I am just tired all the time. I hope over Christmas vacation I can get rested up and get moving in 2003.
Charlotte Tucker
December 20, 2002 - Msg 11121: To avoid one long post, I'm posting again. Asa, you'll be glad to know that my head really is still on and the coughing has improved drastically. Good to hear from you, Tom. I was wondering about you. Hope fun girl's surgery went ok. Hope Salty gets over her sickness. Great stories Boo, Romeena, Asa, and others who shared. My Christmas memories surround my beloved grandmother. We always had a wonderful chicken dinner on Christmas eve at her house, got a few little presents (socks), sang Christmas carols with my aunt playing the piano, and then my uncle read the Christmas story from Luke. After that each person took a turn reading a favorite Bible passage, even the kids. We had family gatherings on the other side of the family where we got many more presents, but my fondest memories are these of my faithful, devoted grandma next door. She died in 1984, and I still miss her dearly.
CharlotteTucker
December 21, 2002 - Msg 11122: I loved your memories, Charlotte! So sweet.
When you spoke about your 92 yr old uncle, it reminded me of something I read in The Reader's Digest yesterday. A woman was sharing about her 99 yr old friend's birthday party. She had taken some pictures at the party and after she had them developed, she took them to her 99 yr old friend to let her pick out any pictures she wanted to keep. When the very elderly woman saw the pictures, she made a face and said, "Good Lord, I look a hundred years old!". I thought that was pretty darned funny.

Well, it seems there aren't very many of us sittin' on the porch lately. I guess everyone is busy with holiday preparations.

I better hit the hay! Later Mayberry Fans!

Boo
December 21, 2002 - Msg 11123: hello everyone this is fungirls husband with all of what has been going on. she was suppose to have a four and half hour surgery which turned into a nine hour surgery. she had a quite of bit of scar tissue built up from surgery twelve years ago so they had to take some of her hip bone to use on her spine. she is in a room now and in quite a bit of pain which they are helping her with. she sat up twice yesterday but it wasnt easy. she sleeps alot and hasnt had any solid food yet but she is keeping her fluids down. Thanks for all of your prayers and i know that fungirl will be talking to you all soon. i will keep you posted on how she is doing. fungirls hubby
December 21, 2002 - Msg 11124:
Mornin' Y'all. Thank you Mr. fun girl for the news.Glad she came through ok,and will continue to keep her in my prayers.
Prayers also to everyone who is facing this Christmas having lost someone close to them. I can say I'm blessed because I haven't experienced a loss recently. I can imagine how hard it is. Just know,like Tom said,that they are in your hearts.
Hey,I think I may have a problem... y'all reckon they'll let a possum into the diner? Sure want to make that Christmas party! What if I put on jingle bells and a little red hat so's they think I'm one of Santa's elves? Don't want nobody shooing me out with a broom!
Leaving coffee,bacon,grits and eggs for everyone this morning-enjoy! See y'all at the diner(if I can get in there somehow)!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
December 21, 2002 - Msg 11125: Christmas memories? I grew up on a farm. I remember one year, I must have been about 8 years old, my parents got my sister and I a new pair of slippers for Christmas. We didn't have much money and getting a new pair of house slippers was a real treat. Anyhow, mine were blue and hers were pink and they were fuzzy and ever so soft. We loved em. A couple hours after we opened them, my sister was looking out the window and saw that the pigs were out. (Our pigs escaped every now and then and it was everybodys responsibility to get them back in). So she dashed outside to try to herd em back into the pigpen. Well, they led her on quite a chase thru the pasture, which was complete with mud and cowpies, I was chasing along behind, trying to help. Well, we finally got the pigs in, and it was then that we realized that we were wearing our slippers. Which were now totally ruined. We were both so upset and sad, and also afraid that our parents would get mad at us for ruining our slippers that we had just gotten for Christmas. We went back up to the house and our parents looked at us and laughed and laughed. They didn't get mad at us, and the next day when the stores were open they just went down and bought us new ones. Happy Holidays to all of you!
- Hazel
December 21, 2002 - Msg 11126: Hey, I posted a long post! I think that's a first for me. And I've got a head that feels like it's been in the drawer all night, too. Think I'll go back to bed for awhile. Keep my breakfast warm and the coffee simmering.
- Hazel
December 21, 2002 - Msg 11127: Oh, one more thing. To Fungirls hubby, thanks for the update on Fungirl. Tell her the porch says Hey!
- Hazel
December 21, 2002 - Msg 11128: Hey porch!

Fun Girl's hubby: please tell Fun Girl we are all thinking of her and praying for her. It sounds like things may have been a little more complicated than they first anticipated. I sure hope she is home for Christmas and already starting to mend. I will be praying for her.

It's been very pleasant reading all of the Christmas memories posts. It really puts me in the Holiday Spirit. I have been remembering some of the best gifts I recieved for Christmas as a child. One year, I really wanted this doll house, but it was a little outside the budget of my parent's. I don't know how they managed it, but Christmas morning, there it was under the tree. I absolutely LOVED that doll house and played with it for years.

This year, I have all the gifts bought, (but not wrapped yet) and my little boy keeps telling me the one toy he wants is a Zoid. Of course, I haven't bought him one. This morning, he woke up and told me he had a really nice dream that on Christmas morning, he woke up and opened his presents, and the very last one was a Zoid. (Later today I will be hitting the toy store one last time!)

Well, to all have a wonderful first day of Winter!
Merry Wiggins
December 21, 2002 - Msg 11129: Morning Porch. What a nice story Hazel. I also grew up on a farm so I can relate to that.
Thanks for the update on FunGirl. Hope and pray she is getting stronger all the time. 9 hours of surgery don't sound like no fun a talllll. Tell her that Asa is coming over to sing at her later. That should help her forget her back pain.
Good to see Hazel and Salty post. Now where is everyone else off to? Mavis, Clara, Happy, Sterling, Ellen. Hope all is well with everyone.
I had a bad dream last night that everyone on the porch was mad at me and wouldn't talk to me or nothing. In fact one of you asked me to leave and never come back. Won't say wich one of you it was but it about broke my heart. Seemed so real too. Hope none of you feel that way for real. (sniff sniff)

Asa
December 21, 2002 - Msg 11130: Didn't see you there Mary... I mean Merry. LOL

Asa
December 21, 2002 - Msg 11131: Good Heavens, Asa! None of us would ever say that to you. What a nightmare. Maybe you ate too much supper before you went to bed. That'll sometimes make you have bad dreams. Or maybe you got something prayin' on your mind. Now you've got me worried. Good luck fighting the crows today, Mary.
- Hazel
December 21, 2002 - Msg 11132: This isn't mine and it didn't have a name with it, but I thought it was appropriate and I'd like to dedicate it to all of those who have lost loved ones:

I see the countless Christmas trees around the worlds below with tiny lights, like heaven's stars relecting on the snow. The sight is so spectacular, please wipe away that tear because I'm spending Christmas Eve with Jesus Christ this year.
I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear, but the sounds of any music can't compare to the Christmas choir up here. I have no words to tell you the joy their voices bring, it's beyond description to hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me, I can see the pain inside your heart, but it is only for a little while that we will be apart. I'll ask Him to lighten your spirit as I tell Him of your love. So please pray for one another as you lift your eyes above.
I can't tell you about the splendor or the peace here in this place. Can you imagine Christmas with the Savior face to face? Please let your hearts be joyful, let your spirit sing.
I'm spending Christmas in Heaven and I'm walking with the King.
December 21, 2002 - Msg 11133: That was nice. Today I went with my sister to get her hair cut and while she was in the chair we were talking about our late Aunt Della, who was a typical southern lady. This will be our third Christmas without her and we miss her. We were telling the cosmotologist about how Aunt Della had the same hair style for at least 50 years. Every week she visited the same hairdresser to have her hair "set" in the small town she lived in. The same routine for many years. She even wore the same brand and shade of lipstick all those years and she was never without it! Well, as it turns out, the lady who was cutting my sister's hair happened to know the hairdresser that did Aunt Della's hair all those years and told us she passed away a year ago. I told my sister, "Oh, man, I guess now Aunt Della will still have the same hair-do when we get to heaven.". She was a special lady who always looked her best. One year she took my mother with her to the beauty shop and they both had their hair done for Christmas. Well, the next day as we were sitting around the dinner table, I looked at my sister, we both looked at Mom and Aunt Della and burst out laughing. My brother-in-law said, "Is it my imagination, or does Mom have the exact same hair-do as Aunt Della?", and do you know, he was right! We still laugh about that.

well, gotta go pick up Romeena and go get the decorations up for the party tonight. The cooks at the diner are going to serve us Chicken A La King and tuna surprise. yum...
I hope Briscoe shows up with his jug. I'll bring the guitar. I have been practicing Away In The Manger. Did anyone invite Ben Weaver?

Boo
December 21, 2002 - Msg 11134: Boo Parney Poo, that is.
December 22, 2002 - Msg 11135: Now Asa, who would ever want you to leave the porch? Now that just aint ryte to get you riled up like that. You just let me get ahold of them.. I'll show them a thing or two.... Hope all is doing well tonight. Off to bed got to start a loonngg week at work... only get Christmas day off:( so if I dont post too much this week, thats why. Yall have a good night and stay warm--Salty Dog
December 22, 2002 - Msg 11136: Spent the evening making treat bags for the children at church and after that - I am coming home to wrap, wrap, wrap!
Have a good Sabbath!

homemaker
December 22, 2002 - Msg 11137: Good evening, folks. Well, the last car just pulled out of the driveway, and I'm alone, just the Plum and I. The first wave of "Christmas" has passed through my house. One daughter and family were only able to come this weekend. I'll take 'em when I can get 'em, so we had part of our celebration yesterday. 7yr-old grandson opened his gifts from me and the family that lives up here. The oldest grandson (his brother) was able to get away from the Army long enough to come and spend a couple of days with us. He brought a buddy with him, a very nice young man who couldn't get enough leave time to go home to Ohio from here in Texas, so he just spent the weekend with us. They're based about two hours from here. It was a surprise, we didn't know until the last minute that the two young soldiers were coming. Sure did enjoy having them. They livened things up considerably!
I have to work Monday, and again on Christmas Eve and on Christmas night, but there is an early Christmas Eve service at church, I'll be able to take my dad and attend that before I go to work. Then on Thursday, my other daughter from down south will be here with her two boys, and we'll have another Christmas go-round. More presents for more kids, a Chinese gift exchange between the adult girls in the family, and somewhere along the way, a big old turkey dinner. The youngest grandson lives nearby, so he's getting a split Christmas at grandma's. He opened some of his gifts last night, will get the rest next week. He's not quite two, and considers it all one big party planned just for him. So cute.

Anyway, one stage of the hurricane has passed over, I'm in the eye right now and all is calm, then come Thursday the whirl will arrive again. It's fun, and I'm thankful that I have the health and strength to anchor it all down. Right now, while it's quiet, I'm going to light some lovely candles, put on some pretty Christmas music, make a glass of good tea, and settle into my big old chair for a time of just gazing into the Christmas tree and remembering.

Have a Mayberry holiday, friends. If you see old Ben Weaver, invite him in and ask him to join in, singing "Away in a Manger". He has a rather pleasant voice, and it'll clutch ya, believe me!

Merry Christmas, and Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho, poo! --Romeena
December 22, 2002 - Msg 11138: Happy memories, dear Romeena.
- Hazel
December 22, 2002 - Msg 11139: Hi, Porch! Hope everyone is well and if not then be assured my prayers include you. It's almost Christmas and I hope everyone is enjoying their preparations and will have a blessed Christmas. We have been spending time with our grandsons which has been a joy. We took them to ride the "Santa" train in Jamestown, the same train station used on Little House on the Prarie and Petticoat Junction. We saw the local Christmas light decorations and several toy train/Christmas village displays. We are truly blessed with these two very special, "special-needs" boys. No gift could be greater than to have them in our lives.
I have a prayer request though.... I am concerned that our youngest daughter (the one with bipolar) may be slipping again. I'm not sure but her actions are reminding me somewhat of when she last became manic and made some pretty bad choices. Not that she has yet to my knowledge.... it's just a mother's gut feeling I guess. So, please, please say a prayer for her. I have asked St. Michael, the warrior Archangel for his help in fighting whatever seems to be able to trick her into making bad choices. God willing, His angels will be there for her.
Love to you all. You are always in my prayers. ~Clara~
December 22, 2002 - Msg 11140: My Special Christmas Story: I forgot to add a most precious thing that happened.... last night we took the boys to see a living Nativity. The 6 year old remembers it from past years so I didn't think he would be so in awe of it but, he was. He sat perfectly still just staring at it for quite a while. So, I asked him if he would like to go see the donkey and sheep. He said no, I want to see baby Jesus. Then asked if he wanted to go get a cookie. He said no, I want to see baby Jesus. I said, "You really want to see Jesus don't you?" He said "yes I do and He's all covered in the blanket." I said "well, that's really a doll because it would be too cold to bring a real baby out here." He got the saddest look on his face and said "but, I really want to see Jesus. I want to see his face." Those are some of the sweetest words I have ever heard! So, I told him I have pictures at home and he was eager to see them. It so happened that at the same time we were looking at the books, a special about the life of Jesus came on tv. It came to the cruxifiction and he asked all about it. I tried my best to tell him in 6 year old terms as I didn't want to ruin Christmas for him with stories about Jesus' death. But, he insisted on knowing how and why Jesus died and we told him that there were people who didn't want to hear the truth about God and wanted to make Him stop and that sometimes people are still like that even today not wanting to hear the truth. He became very sad then he asked.... and I will never forget this..... "Did we do it?" Where and why he ever thought to ask this amazed me. It was as if there was something he understood at such a young age that takes the rest of us years to learn. And to think that he is "autistic"... makes me wonder who really is disabled among us! God speaks to us in ways we least expect. ~Clara~
December 22, 2002 - Msg 11141: Thank you so much for sharing that, Clara. It made me cry. Oh, the wonder of the truth God imparts to our little children!

I went carroling with the church choir tonight and we went to the retirement home and to the homes of certain people in town that we thought could use some Christmas cheer. It was quite an emotional evening. When we were at the assisted living facility, some of the elderly folks cried when we were singing. They just sat there with their eyes closed while the tears rolled down their faces.
We then went to sing at the home of a couple who lost their 42 yr old son a week ago. He had muscular dystrophy. That couple stood in the doorway listening and after we finished, the woman said, "Mary lost her son, too. I know the Lord will get us through this.". It really touched me to hear her talk about her son . We visited the home of a 36 year old woman who is dying with a disease of the brain. She is living in her parent's home and is in the living room in a hospital bed. As I stood there looking at her drawn and fragile body I began to hear what I was singing. Because Jesus was born, there is hope. Hope for eternal life. The woman's mother began to cry quietly as we sang and I couldn't stop the tears. I didn't want to cry in front of them. They have enough sadness already, but I couldn't help it. I practically ran from the house after we sang and as soon as I was outside, the dam broke and I felt these deep sobs coming up from deep inside. I couldn't help it, I just stood out on that sidewalk and cried like a baby. All I could think about was the pain that mother was going through. Some people have so much pain to bear.
So, tonight as I think about Christmas, I am thinking about hope. As Paul the apostle said, we are not without hope. Our hope is in Jesus Christ, God incarnate, God with us.

Boo
December 22, 2002 - Msg 11142: I will pray for your daughter, Clara. Trust her to the Lord.

Boo
December 23, 2002 - Msg 11143: Morning Porch. Wow, some pretty profound posting going on here. What a good soul you are Boo, doing all that you do. And what a neat story Clara, about your son or grandson. Prayers for your Daughter.
Sorry you have to work during the holidays Romeena and Salty Dog. Guess it is good that you have jobs though and have the means to work. Seems this economy is getting worse all the time.
Christmas is a wonderful time of the year, but it can also be a very sad time for a lot of folks who are lonely or who are hurting in other ways, so my prayers go out to any who may be in such a way. God loves us all and is aware of our every need. Trust in Him and He will see you through.
I pray you all have a wonderful Christmas.

Asa
December 23, 2002 - Msg 11144: Asa - I din't know that you could be so profound! Just kidding!
Glad to hear from Fun Girl's hubby - hope that she is still doing okay. She is probably enjoying the drugs - so she really feels fun!
Last minute Christmas shopping today and baking some cookies for Santa , except I think he needs cheese - the power of cheese! My hubby has a package under the tree for me and you know what they say about small packages. . .we'll see. I know that he is tempting me.
I hope everyone has a safe and joyous Christmas ,
love to everyone on the porch. . .

homemaker (Betsy)
December 23, 2002 - Msg 11145: Hello all!
Thought I better get my Christmas memory in before Christmas is over, then maybe we can work on New Years Eve memories. If we can remember them. Oww, my aching head!
Well, my Christmas memory t'aint funny, and t'aint sad, it's just kind of... there.
My parents had sold the home in the country and we all moved into town, which I hated because to a seven year old even the small town we lived in seemed like a big city, compared to having a forest for your backyard. They did, however, keep a tract of land out there where a lot of pine trees grew. So, every year we would hop in the buggy(ok, it was really a car, I'm not that old!) and then trudge through the snow along the fenceline between our used-to-be neighbors house and our old house. This was when it still snowed in December. I don't know why it doesn't seem to anymore.
Anyway, then we would select our tree and Dad would chop it down, then we would drag it back to the car, us kids in our little snowsuits waddling through the sometimes deep snow looking like little penguins. I loved going out there.
This tradition continued about until I was in high school, when my parents finally sold that land. Of course, in the later years our snow attire changed and we didn't waddle so much, but it was still fun to go out there and reminisce about our childhood years there. I still think about it when I happen to drive out that way past our looonnnnggg driveway and the land in-between the houses where we'd walk.

That's it.

No, really!

That's my Christmas story. It's all done!

I'd like to wish everyone on the porch and everyone in cyber-Mayberry a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! - With only mild hangovers.

-Sterling Holobyte
December 23, 2002 - Msg 11146: Good Morning Porch!
WOW! Some of the posts have moved me to tears, others have put a smile on my face and in my heart! It is always a pleasant passage of time to come here and cavort with my cohorts!

Boo, when you were writing about all the visiting you have been doing it reminded me of something my niece told me this morning. She, and a neighbor friend of hers are in dance classes together. I knew they were supposed to do a Christmas dance at a nursing home last week. I asked her how that went and she told me only 4 people came. I thought, "I wonder why that nursing home only managed to get 4 patients out of their rooms to see these darling little girls?" When I asked Reggi about it she told me only 4 little girls showed up to dance. I thought that was so sad that the parent's of these little girls didn't think the seniors were important enough to keep that commitment. I can say however, and this is God's absolute truth, that my niece and her little friend down the street are absolutely GORGEOUS little girls! At least those seniors got to see the cream of the crop!

I know, like Asa said, a lot of people are hurting at this time of the year, but I thought this story might be encouraging to any one who has suffered a loss. 5 and a half years ago I found out that my mother was dieing of cancer. Within a week or so I also found out that I was having another child, and I was already 40 and my youngest was already 13! Well, that was one tough year. My mother and I went through chemo and pregnancy together. My little boy was born in October, giving her a second grandson, and my mother passed away right after Christmas. The next summer my sister-in-law made a big announcement that she was expecting their third child! We were thrilled, and with my infant and a new one on the way it sure took the sting out of losing my mother. By September we were shocked to learn that my sister-in=law also had the same type of cancer that had just taken my mother. She was five months pregnant and they could do nothing unless she had an abortion. She opted to give the baby one more month to develop so they could take the baby at six months when it had a much better chance to live. The baby was born, also in October, just like my boy, and he was healthy, although only one pound 11 ounces. He looked about the size of a Barbie Doll. His little knees were the size of the knuckles on my hands. His mother only held him two times. She passed away just before Christmas. In January, the little baby (Joey) came home to live with me to start out his life. His three year old sister also came to live with us. My poor brother had to endure losing his mother one Christmas, and then his wife the very next Christmas. Not to mention he had to somehow support three children, one on a monitor, with no wife. Well, this happened 4 years ago, and Joey is a very healthy, energetic boy, who brings tons of joy and happiness to all around him. We call him Joe Joe the Wonder boy! For him to have no health problems is a miracle! My family gets together for every holiday, birthday, or whatever other reason we can think of. We have had some very nice family times since then and tomorrow, the whole crew will be here again for Christmas Eve. My point is this...I know sometimes we can be in the middle of very difficult trials, and it may seem that life is not worth it any more, and that joy will never touch your doorstep again. But, I can attest that I have experienced joy, happiness, comfort, love and many other wonderful things in these last 4 years, and my brother would tell you the same thing. We have seen God's mercy, tenderness, forgiveness, and salvation work wonders in our lives, and if any one out there is hurting this year, please know next year could see better things coming your way...don't despair, God is always with the broken hearted.

I just want to say one last thing... when I sign my name Merry, I really am!

Merry Wiggins
December 23, 2002 - Msg 11147: Good morning porch, I have really enjoyed reading all the stories around here. Asa, you always kow the right thing to say to make me feel better. Today is the day that my grandma died 13 years ago. I was only 14 at the time and still remember it like it was yesterday. So, the holidays tend to be a lil sad. But I know where she is and that I'll see her again one of these days. I hope you all have a wonderful holiday. My work schedule isn't going to be as bad as I thought. I have Wed through Fri off. Bosses changed their mind about going to Florida. So, I aint complaining not one bit. Off to work today though, you all take care--Salty Dog
December 23, 2002 - Msg 11148: To all my wonderful Porch friends,

Thank y'all for welcoming me on the porch this past year. Y'all are a special group of folks and I'm glad to be one of you. Hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas and many blessings in the New Year. Here is my Christmas present to y'all-
*****Have your speakers on-Enjoy!*****

http://www.blueyze.com/letitbechristmas.html

*****Happy Holidays*****
possum under a rock
December 23, 2002 - Msg 11149: possum under a rock (Pam)
December 23, 2002 - Msg 11150: Hello all! Hey Possum, Thank you for the beautiful card. It's the best one I've recieved this year. I just wanted to say to you all, that, coming here on this Porch, is the highlight of my day. You all cheer me up when I've had a bad day. The love and caring on this Porch, can't be matched anywhere. Thank you all for allowing me to come to this wonderful place and rock. Happy Holidays and a peaceful New Year.

Briscoe Darling Jr.(Dave)

December 23, 2002 - Msg 11151: Bless your hearts, all of you, bless your dear sweet hearts! Reading these posts has brought tears to my eyes several times, and always, after the tears, there is a smile. What a group! Boo, you're gonna have so many stars in your crown that you'll need a neck brace to help you hold it up! Merry, Clara, possum, BDJ, Mrs. Wiley, Sterling, Salty, homemaker, Hazel, Miss Ellen Brown, fungirl and her thoughtful hubby, Charlotte, Happy, TOM, and of course, everyone's big brother Asa, and anyone else I may be missing - you are treashuhs! That's what you are, just treashuhs! I'm so thankful to the good Lord for sending Floyd to build this porch for us and provide a place where we can share, declare, despair, repair, and send up a prayer. There's just nothing like it anywhere, and I'm grateful.

I wish each of you the happiest of holidays, with a warm place, good food, friends and family around you, and most of all the sense of God's love, incarnate in the person of Christ our Lord. Peace be unto you, my porch friends. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
December 23, 2002 - Msg 11152: Romeena, now don't start crying. If you start, I'm a goner.
- Hazel
December 23, 2002 - Msg 11153: Hope you all have a wonderful and blessed Christmas.
FRANKIE FLINT
December 23, 2002 - Msg 11154: The same to you Frankie Flint. It's good to see you post. Merry Christmas to all of you.
jennieboone
December 24, 2002 - Msg 11155: Thank you, thank you, Merry wiggins. Bless your heart for sharing that encouragement. Thank ya'll for your kind words but I'll tell you a little secret Romeena, I find many opportunities to do things for people during the holidays but I don't do much at all the rest of the year (so I think my neck will be able to hold up that crown alright!), ha ha You folks are so sweet and even though I haven't been on the porch long, you have such a special place in my heart!

If I don't talk to you again tomorrow, Merry Christmas Eve!

Love, Boo (Julie)