March 23, 2003 - Msg 12809: Morning porch.
Please bless our troops Lord. I think things could get ugly as we take over Baghdad. Sure hope nt.

Asa
March 23, 2003 - Msg 12810: Porch sweeping time I see, Good Sabbath Mayberry
Yes we lift our troops up in prayer.
Ellen Brown
March 23, 2003 - Msg 12811: "If we could just have one little crime here. Just one murder."
"BARN!"
"Well it doesn't have to be someone we know!

hehheh... I probably messed that up a bit, but I figger if ya got time to post, ya got time to quote.
How are all my Porch buds doing? Fine, I hope. All's well here in De§ville. :-)
My daddy used to sing Mairzy Doats to me, too, and my mommer sang that 'bushel and a peck' song. What a coinkydink.
Boo, ya just about laid me out with that 'little one' poem. OUCH. Some here will remember that when I first came on the Porch, I had twin younguns who were 4½ at the time. I remember I was asking Romeena's advice about them starting kindergarten. Well, now they're 11½ and will be in 6th grade next year. How time flies. So you can see how that poem clutched me.
Love to all, and praying for peace.

~De§~

March 23, 2003 - Msg 12812: Hello all! Amen ~Des~. Amen.

Briscoe Darling Jr.
March 23, 2003 - Msg 12813: Well, I was in choir when I was in high school, but it was kinda cause they was scraping the bottom of the barrell. I can carry a tune, but that's about it. But when little Opie was a littler Opie, he used to like for me to sing "Rella" as in Cinderella. As in the song before the Disney movie. And as you don't have to be able to carry a tune to sing a song here on the porch, I'd be happy to do it for you all now.

Cinderella
Your as lovely as you name
Cinderella
As a sunset in the rain
Tho your dressed in rags you wear
An air of queenly grace
Anyone can see a throne
Would be your propper place
Cinderella
If you give your heart a chance
It will lead you
To the king of all romance
May you see your dreams unfold
Cinderella
Cinderella
In the sweetest story ever told.

(applause applause)
Thank you, Thank you.

Now when I sing he just laughs. Oh for the days when they think everything you do is wonderful and magical. (and for the days when YOU think everything THEY do is wonderful and magical.)
fun girl
March 23, 2003 - Msg 12814: That was right purty, fun girl. I can't even carry a note in a bucket. LOL!

~De§~


March 23, 2003 - Msg 12815: My stars, De§! Do you mean to stand there on your little flat feet and tell me that those babies we "conferred" about are now in the 6th grade?? I can't imagine such a thing! Time sure does fly. No wonder I'm getting so creaky.

Possum, you're on the right track, but "Sunrise, Sunset" is a different song. Much the same sentiments expressed, though.
"When did she get to be a beauty?
When did he grow to be so tall?
Wasn't it yesterday when they were small?
Sunrise, sunset, sunrise, sunset.
Swiftly fly the years.
One season following another,
Laden with happiness and tears."

I think I'll chase the other song on the net and see if I can determine where it came from, the "Turn Around" song, I mean.

Well, the Plum is upset about something at the front door, guess I'll investigate. Likely someone has left a circular at the door, and she won't hush until I open the door and let her get it and "kill" it. My little guardian. (teehee) Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
March 23, 2003 - Msg 12816: Well, that little adventure paid off. I just went through Lycos, and did a search on "Turn+around+and+you're+four" and it brought up a wealth of information. Lots and lots of sites to visit, some giving the full lyrics, and finally, at a site called "Kididdles" I learned that the song was written by Allen Greene and Harry Belafonte and someone else. Guess it wasn't in "Fiddler". Anyway, I'd recommend doing this search and then pursuing some of the sites it brings up. Some lovely, tender and touching websites - you'll enjoy the visits.

Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
March 23, 2003 - Msg 12817: I hate to admit it, but I'm a little down today. I am worried about the war, and very frustrated at some of the reports about Iraqi's pretending to surrender, or welcome our troops, and then open fire on them. I am very sad about the troops who were taken prisoner, and it looks as though some have been executed. I knew going into this war that it would be a difficult battle, but it makes it even harder when you hear about all the people who are turning against Americans. Even some of our own. I have prayed and prayed about this situation, and I truly feel we are doing the right thing, but it is such a frightening time. Heavenly Father, please be with our men and women who are fighting this war, give them courage, and wisdom, and help them to not become discouraged. Give our Leadership in Washington Your wisdom. Give all the families who have seen their loved ones go off to war, Your peace that passes all understanding, and give us all the gift of world peace, and very soon. Help this war to resolve itself soon, and that the rest of the world will see, this was not a war for oil, or for a colonization of the middle east, but it was truly a war to liberate the Iraqi people from an evil regime, and to remove a threat of terrorism that is very real. Help me, Father, to not be overcome by despair and hopelessness, help me to turn to You at this time and realize that You're able to turn every evil thing to my good, and You can also do this for the entire world. Without You, Lord, the world is a miserable place, so help me and every other God-fearing person to try to be a light in this world that reflects your love. In Jesus' name I ask this...Amen
Mary Wiggins
March 23, 2003 - Msg 12818: Amen, and amen. --Romeena
March 23, 2003 - Msg 12819: Amen
Miss Ellen Brown
March 23, 2003 - Msg 12820: God Bless the captured(possibly executed) troops.

"You're in the arms of the angel,may you find some comfort there..."

*****Amen*****
possum under a rock
March 23, 2003 - Msg 12821: Amen.

Boo
March 23, 2003 - Msg 12822: Count me in on them prayers for our troops. Sad news coming out of Iraq today for sure. On a lighter note... thanks for putting out the Pop Tarts for me for possum this morning, fun girl. I was busy. It was hubby's birthday. His sister and her balloonist boyfriend came to our house in the country and brought his hot air balloon. Took the whole family up for rides--something I've always wanted to do. It was a beautiful calm morning. What fun! You could see for miles. In reading the archives, I enjoyed all the porch conversation about old songs. My mom sang "Scarlet Ribbons" to me too. She also used to sing a song "My Little Buckaroo" to me. Anybody know words to that one? A great day here on my porch. Hope everyone had a good Sabbath!
Charlotte Tucker
March 23, 2003 - Msg 12823: Hey, good to see you, De§!
CT
March 24, 2003 - Msg 12824: Good evening, everybody. It's been a beautiful day here in the 70's. Not such a good day in Iraq. I am very sad to hear about those killed and captured. Prayers for them and their families and prayers for you, Mary Wiggins, hope things look a bit brighter tomorrow.

Thanks Ro, for your detective work. I will check out that site. You have been a wonderful wealth of information today!

My mother had a beautiful voice. She often sang solos in the church choir and sang at weddings and funerals. I remember once when I was about five, I had a baby kitten that died (I found it dead under it's mother- she had suffocated it). Well, it was the first time I had to deal with the death of a pet and I was very sad. My mother put the kitten in a shoe box and buried it in the back yard, but not without a proper service first. She had been practicing a piece for the church choir and sang it over the little grave of my kitten as we stood there showing our respects! I guess she was killing two birds with one stone. haha
Mom also sang a song about a bicycle built for two and Que Sera, Sera (did I spell that right?).
The way I am talking makes it sound like Mom has passed away but she hasn't. Unfortunately, though, a bad stroke has made it impossible for her to sing like she used to. Sad because singing was such an important part of her life for so many years. She will sing again some day.

Well, here's to sweet mothers who sang to their babies...

Meeeeetheeeeey.....

Boo
March 24, 2003 - Msg 12825: [color=blue]test
[/color]
March 24, 2003 - Msg 12826: Good morning porch, Dear Jesus I pray today that you have our son's and daughter's, husband's,wife's, mother's and father's tightly in your hands today Lord war is an awful thing, but I know it brings about changes and that is mostly good change it's just that I don't understand the price that has to be paid, Lord my heart is heavy, what happened to the soilders yesterday was all uncalled for. I'm just not understanding the reasoning behind it, so I'm asking once again protect our troops and the innocent people in the name of Jesus. Amen

Hello Des, long time no see, I pray every one feels the blessings of the Lord today in their life. Have a good one. Where is Mavis and Bulbsnatcher?
Ellen Brown ((((HUGS))))
March 24, 2003 - Msg 12827: Morning porch.

Asa
March 24, 2003 - Msg 12828: Morning Asa (and everyone else). Prayers for our nation. I am so thankful today for the men and women who are willing to sacrifice their very lives for this country and for all of our children.
I wish those who are protesting this war would give those willing to fight for a us the honor they deserve. This is not Viet Nam all over again. I have prayed and thought about all this and I believe we are doing the right thing by going into Iraq with force. I saw things differently after hearing the missionary speak last month on the tortures he endured while a prisoner in Iraq. I wonder if Natalie Maines knows anything about what it's like to end up in an Iraqi prison for what she believes, or if she has ever heard of the children's prison in Iraq, or seen pictures of women and children dead in the streets from chemical warfare inflicted on them by their leaders. What is that famous quote that goes something like, "all evil needs to flourish is for good men to do nothing". Well, we are doing something and I am proud of it. I have never been prouder to be an American and I have never been more grateful to those who are willing to fight for what is right!

God bless you all today and if you start to give in to worry, remember that our God IS God.

Boo
March 24, 2003 - Msg 12829: It is a beautiful day here in Indiana. The sun is shining, the temp is in the 70's, and I am on spring break. I am also mucking out goat stalls (pens) and working to get my tomato bed in shape for some tomato plants that my brother is bringing me in from TN on Easter week-end. Goat manure sure makes dandy summer tomatos!
We just learned that my husband's cousin is in the military over in Iraq. We hadn't anyone this close before. He wrote his mom and dad and thanked them for a wonderful childhood and for being such good parents. He was also at peace with God should anything happen to him.
I am certainly grateful for his sacrifice as I look at my own children. Saddam and Osama are evil men. I don't think it has to do with Islam as it does with pure evil. No matter what the religion - there are always extremists. Evil is just evil.

And Boo - your momma is probably singing in her soul - you just aren't able to hear the words. I hope my children will remember me singing to them. When Casey was a baby - that would be the only way to soothe him at nights. Now he sings all the time. . .and I mean all the time.

WEll - take care - back to mucking!

homemaker
March 24, 2003 - Msg 12830: Howdy, everyone! homemaker, what a beautiful thing to say. "Your momma is probably singing in her soul." That's lovely, and I'll bet Boo is finding a lot of comfort in that thought.

It's beautiful here in north Texas, too. Warm and sunny, makes me just yearn to get out and dig in the dirt and plant things. Can't do it, though, I'm still too sore from that chest scope procedure. Pain was miserable enough two nights ago that I broke down and took two Darvocet, instead of my usual Advil. Then I spent the rest of the night hearing things, dizzy, and throwing up. Didn't see things, thank goodness. Sometimes that happens, too. If I get that reaction from Darvocet, can you imagine what morphine or demerol does to me? It's not a pretty sight. I was given morphine in the recovery room once, and spent the next eight hours in my own private little hell. How on earth the drug addicts manage it, I'll never know.

I'm really fighting the urge to go get some bedding plants, though. We're not gonna get another freeze around here, because I noticed yesterday that the mesquite trees are starting to put on leaves. You can't fool the mesquites. We may get more cold weather, but we won't get another freeze. I should be planting begonias, snapdragons, dianthus, maybe a few more pansies, and some petunias if I can find a sunny spot. I have quite a few pansies that made it through the winter, and they'll die back as soon as it gets very warm, but I could fill in a few spots with some fresh ones for now. I love their cheery little lion-faces.

Well, guess I'll scratch up some lunch. You all have a great day now, you hear? Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
March 24, 2003 - Msg 12831: Afternoon Y'all.I pray for all the folks fighting for what's right over in Iraq.Good will triumph over evil,but what a price,oh,what a price.
Hope you get to feeling better Romeena and can do without those mind-bending pills.My mama was on a morphine drip after she had a spinal fusion last summer and it turned her into somebody I didn't know-mean and crazy! I knew it was the drug and not her,and she realized it too.She demanded not to have a morphine drip last December when she had more surgery-think they gave her demerol,which didn't mess her up like that morphine.
Don't wanna talk about that stuff! Lemme talk about nice things like flowers and such! I have lots of pansies planted around my rock,Romeena.My favorite are the tiny miniature pansies-they're gorgeous! Do you have any of those? I'd like to plant some snapdragons,irises,and hydrangeas too.I fell in love with blue hydrangeas a few summers ago up on Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard.What pretty yards! Can y'all believe that hydrangeas are such the rage up there that people actually steal them out of other people's yards? I've read the crime reports in the papers up there and it's a big thing-hydrangea stealing.Geesh! How could you enjoy looking at something that you know was ill-gotten? Anyways...
Hope all of you are doing ok.Love to all!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
March 24, 2003 - Msg 12832: Hmm, never thought of planting Hydrangeas. I have Hybiscus of various colors and I just planted new petunias in the flower beds, all colors. I put out some beautiful bright red geraniums. they are gorgeous! My house is a cream-colored brick with green double doors in front and those geraniums just look so pretty against the house. Wish you could all sit on my front porch with me and enjoy the flowers and the weather.

I went to the Motherwise class this morning at the church and topic was how to discipline your children. I got some good advice! Hope I can follow through and be consistent.

Well, better go unload the dishwasher while baby girl is asleep. Later, friends...

Boo
March 24, 2003 - Msg 12833: Wow, Boo, I think you hit the nail right on the head with that key word - consistent. Imagine how hard it would be to grow up and learn how to behave if a certain behavior was okay at times, and not okay at other times, and you didn't know when those times were, like it depended on whether your parent had a headache or something! Kind of like driving on a road with a certain speed limit, and sometimes the officer would just smile and wave you on, and other times he'd stop you and write you a ticket! Confusing!

Possum, I love those little miniature pansies, too. I learned to call them violas, and maybe that's one reason I like them. My mother-in-law's name is Viola, and a sweeter, kinder person you could never find. The little flowers make me think of her, with their little happy faces. I love her, wish I could see her more often, but she's in Michigan and I'm in Texas, and it seems whenever I have time and money to make a trip, I always go see my own kids first. One of these days, I'm going to just plan it and go up there to visit her for a few days. She lives near her daughter, and is well cared-for, but I'd surely like to spend some time with her.

You mentioned blue hydrangeas. Did you know that you can buy any color hydrangeas and make them turn blue? It depends on what you feed them. High iron (I think) makes them turn blue. I may be wrong about the iron, but I know any nurseryman can tell you what to feed them to produce pink blooms, or blue, or shades in between. I love hydrangeas, there are some beautiful ones around the entry to my dad's house, which is now leased out. My mom planted those hydrangeas, and they were her pride and joy. Fortunately, the woman who is leasing the house is taking excellent care of the yard.

As I sit here, looking out the window into the back yard, I see five squirrels, a blue jay, about eight grackles, five or six starlings, uncountable sparrows, and nine lovely little doves, all jostling for space on the ground under the bird feeder. They're on the ground, because one of the squirrels is swinging on the feeder, and seed is raining down to the ground. A feast indeed, and the birdbath is freshly filled, so they're all just having a wonderful time. Yes, the squirrels dig up the bulbs I plant, and the birds are messy at times, but I really do enjoy these little scenes, and wouldn't change a thing. Now if I could just find a wild critter that would eat those miserable cottonwood buds, the little green chains of beads that eventually open out into a blizzard of cotton. If I could find an animal like that, I'd import about two dozen and send them up those trees to feast on the millions of little green beads that are there. I have five cottonwood trees (oh, woe!) and three of them bear cotton. My neighbors would like to put out a contract on me, I'm sure, but even if my trees went away, there are about two dozen on the street directly behind me, so it wouldn't make much difference. The biggest change would be that my house would be in the direct, hot sun all day, and we'd still have cotton. I remember one year we had a killing freeze at just the right time, it froze the cotton buds, and we didn't have enough cotton flying that spring to even notice. It was wonderful! Wish I could have those trees neutered! Anybody got any ideas? Next time Mr. Weaver comes through, I guess I'll ask him.

Have a lovely evening, friends. Prayers for our troops. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena

March 24, 2003 - Msg 12834: Hey everybody. Lovely day on the porch today. Did anybody remember "My Little Buckaroo"? If so, give me a few more of the words. Thanks. I thought the hydrangea blossoms had something to do with the alkaline in the soil or something like that.?
CharlotteTucker
March 24, 2003 - Msg 12835: Ya'll talking about your flowerbeds - you know goat manure will shur make look rite pritty and all. I got some for sale - CHEEP! Well, I'd even help you load your pick-um-up truck. I got extry pitchforks and shovels. . .no need to feel shy- come and help yurself!!

God bless President Bush and all our boys (and girls) overseas. . .Amen

homemaker
March 24, 2003 - Msg 12836: Hey, Charlotte Tucker! I think this may be what you're looking for:

Close your sleepy eyes,
My little Buckaroo.
While the light of the western skies,
Is shinin' down on you.
Don't you know it's time for bed,
Another day is through.
So go to sleep,
My little Buckaroo.

Don't you realize,
My little Buckaroo,
That it was from a little acorn,
That the Oak tree grew?
And remember that your dad,
Was once a kid like you.
So go to sleep,
My little Buckaroo.

Soon you're gonna ride the range,
Like grown up cowboys do.
Now it's time that you were roundin' up,
A dream or two.
So go to sleep,
My little Buckaroo.


I just ran a search on "My+Little+Buckaroo+" through Lycos, and the second or third site offered lyrics and music. When you click and go to that site, it not only displays these words (which I cut and pasted here), but it plays the music as well. Also, there are two other versions of the lyrics. I'd give you the link, but it was a mile long. Just do that search and you'll find it.

Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena

March 24, 2003 - Msg 12837: good evenin' porch.It was a beautiful day in PA,about 70 degrees.I cleaned out space for my flower beds also,just can't decide what to plant.Everything everyone mentioned sounds wonderful,I love flowers of any kind.Romeena,I can't remember ever seeing a cottonwood tree.I'd love to see one.The birds have been eating the seed as fast as I can get it in the feeder,but,I haven't seen any squirrels yet.Does anyone know how to make fruit tea?I used to order it at restaurants when we would go out to eat in TN,but,I never did get the recipe.Well,time to get the little ones to bed.Take care porch,((((hugs)))) to all.Teresa
March 25, 2003 - Msg 12838: Hi, Teresa! Honey, if you've never seen a cottonwood tree, then you've never been in Texas. They grow along all the river and creek banks, and in everyone's back yard, if given the chance. Most people don't tolerate them, call them "big weeds" and they're often classified as "trash trees". The "cotton" they scatter in the spring flies and blows all over the place, billions of tiny seeds attached to a little cottony puff, light as air. Each of those little seeds, smaller than a sesame seed, can grow into a tree. Isn't that amazing? Kind of like faith, in that respect. They settle in the lawn, get mowed down and die out. In flowerbeds, they're yanked out as soon as they put their little heads above the soil. They grow very, very fast, and because of their rapid growth, they make a very soft wood, easily broken. Not recommended as firewood! The roots will approach the foundation of your house, meet a little resistance, make a right angle and grow the other way. Since I have three of them within ten feet of the house, I had a foundation expert look at them, and he just laughed. Don't worry, he said, the roots are too soft to do any damage. He was right, because ten years later, there are no cracks in the foundation.

The male trees don't make cotton, but they do make stringy "blossoms", similar to pecan blossoms, that fall all over the place, and the pods they come out of also drop, and leave sticky shells that track in the house. The female trees make the cotton, and trust me, it's a mess. Gets in the a/c unit unless you screen it off (I have) and blows into every nook and cranny. Squirrels love the trees, because they can nip off twigs easily and make their nests. Of course, they drop more than they actually use, so I'm constantly picking up twigs.

Now, with all that, why on earth do I want them? Well, first of all, because they're there, and I won't live long enough to see a stately maple or oak grow up and take their place. That's not the real reason, though. The real reason is that there's just not another tree that makes the same music when the wind blows through the branches. There is a cool, sweet, gentle sound that's just so restful and pleasant, and makes me remember days on the Frio river, floating along in an innertube, listening to the wind blowing through the cottonwoods overhead. They make a nice shade, too, which doesn't hurt my electric bill one bit! A lovely maple would have been nice, but I don't have a maple. I have cottonwoods, and I'm grateful for them.

Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
March 25, 2003 - Msg 12839: You know, Ro, there are almost zero cottonwood trees here on the coast but I know of one on the street my sister lives on and the first time I saw the little cotton puffs in the wind I didn't know what in the world they were. I saw them in Concan of course but didn't know what they were. Seems all we have down here are Live Oak, Mesquite, and an occassional transplanted pine. Oh, and LOTS of palm trees. The land I am planning to build on next year is covered with Live Oak trees and they are so thick I don't even know what is back there until I have it cleared. I am hoping for some big trees but most of them look small.

Well, I am off to bed. I have to take Dad to the outpatient surgery clinic to have his other cataract removed in the morning. Ya'll have a good night.

Boo
March 25, 2003 - Msg 12840: Morning porch, breakfast is ready, come and get it. I want to insert some verses that Lucy put at the All Souls Church so here goes.
Psalm 41:11 By this I know that you favor me, because my enemies do not triumph over me.

Psalm 44: 5-8 Through You will we push down our enemies; through Your name will we tread them under that rise up against us. For I will not trust in my bow, neither shall my sword save me. But You have saved us from our enemies, and has put them to shame that hated us. In God we boast all the day long, and praise Your name forever.

and I want to add a prayer and verses God gave me today.

Oh by the way Have a Blessed day, today is a day we really need to lift our troops up in prayer, they say their at that red line In the name of Jesus, protect our troops see them through this day Victorious, for the honor of God. Amen.
2Corinthians chp10 v.4
For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal. but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;

Have a Sonshine filled day.(((HUGS)))
Ellen Brown
March 25, 2003 - Msg 12841: Thanks Ellen, very encouraging verses. I have seen the news this morning and they are having tremendous sand storms today, which is slowing down their progress. I can't help but believe that God, in His infinite wisdom, knew those men and women needed a rest before the battle, and that perhaps this time will give the air forces a little more time to hit a few more targets that could do harm to our soldiers. I know I have been praying for them, as has much of our nation, so I have to see situations like this as something God has orchestrated.

Romeena, I am not sure, but I believe we have trees like you describe here too. In the spring we have these white fluffy puffs that float around and probably cause fits for those who have allergies! They might be considered "nuisance trees" to some, but I like them. We have an apple tree in my yard and I spend most of the late summer picking up the apples before I can mow. Now to me, THAT can be a nuisance! But I love my apple tree, it is so pretty in the spring, and it shades my patio area so nicely. And the apples are good too! But I do have to spray it to keep the little critters from ruining the apples. So, I can picture Romeena, floating down the Frio river, just soaking up a glorious day, and then there is me, bending over, picking up LOTS of apples, and getting stung by the occasional bee!

I hope everyone has a great day and God be with our troops.

Mary Wiggins
March 25, 2003 - Msg 12842: Thanks for those wonderful verses, Ellen Brown, and for the prayer!

Ya'll have a great day...

Boo


March 25, 2003 - Msg 12843: Hey Ro and Boo - what should we see in Texas this summer besides goat farms (that's a given). We are thinking of heading that way on my husbands vacation days. We would rather have side amusements than big city amusements and the regular tourist traps, We've ordered our vacation guide.
Another beautiful day in Indiana!

homemaker

I can't believe there have been no takers on the manure.
March 25, 2003 - Msg 12844: I'll take some manure, homemaker, and can I get a side order of fries with that? :)
-Sterling Holobyte
March 25, 2003 - Msg 12845: Hey all, the porch looks great today. Hope all ya'll are doing well. Take care and have a great Mayberry kinda day.

Ed Sawyer
March 25, 2003 - Msg 12846: Thank God for the sand storms, I agree with you Mary, God knows thwey need rest, isn't he awsome. and on the cottonwood trees, I have one in my back yard I know it has to be about 80 urs old, it was there when my daddy was young. I have allergies and would like to get it cut down, but it is so huge it would cost me a bundle. As for Texas, if you like crafts you should go to Bid Sandy Texas, Annie's Attic is there and we just loved it, I hope to go back again someday, therre is a Bed n Breafast, one house is a resturant the other house has the crafts, wish I knew how to post where you could see the pictures, but of course it's been 20 yrs since I've been there LOL I guess it's still there. I just loved it.

Ellen Brown
March 25, 2003 - Msg 12847: Hey, homemaker! If you're coming to Texas to see some goat ranches, you're probably already heading for the Hill Country. If not, then you should. Lots of goat ranches there, as the land won't support much else. Rocky, poor soil, but beautiful. Check out your Texas map. Start at Fredericksburg. It's a beautiful little tourist-y town that has managed to maintain its Germanic heritage. Many nice little shops, good places to eat, and some B&B's that are pretty reasonable. My favorite restaurant is The Peach Tree, (not to be confused with The Peach Tree Inn, on the main highway). It's a quaint little place that serves the best BLT you ever ate. It comes on a buttery croissant, and is delish! Just delish! Ask any local, they can direct you to The Peach Tree restaurant.
From Fredericksburg, just aim west and you'll get into the beautiful Hill Country. Some spectacular scenery, and you can look for these rivers - the Frio (my favorite), the Sabinal, and the Nueces. Not big roaring rivers, just clear streams that meander through the hills, and so pretty. Should be lots of goat ranches in that area. Lots of friendly people, too.
After that, go down to San Antonio. No visit to Texas is complete without visiting my home town. Check out the River Walk, maybe stay in one of the river front hotels (kinda pricey, though) and have a great authentic Mexican meal along the river front. It's been so long, I don't what cafe to recommend, but maybe Boo does.
Boo, from San Antonio, I'll bow to your expertise regarding points south. I'm sure they'd like to visit the coast. Do you have any suggestions?

There you go, homemaker! Have fun, and I wish I was riding along with you. Makes me homesick, just talking about those places.

Have a great day, friends. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena

P.S. If you like flea markets, the granddaddy of them all is at Canton, in East Texas, on the weekend before the first Monday of each month. They even call it First Monday. It's unbelievable.


March 25, 2003 - Msg 12848: See - I knew the porch was the right place to make travel plans! Thanks Ro for the info - hey, that rhymes!

homemaker

I don't know about the fries - but FLIES, I can do !
March 25, 2003 - Msg 12849: homemaker, Is there a Raintree County in Indiana? I recently saw the movie Raintree County. Thanks, Pickles
March 25, 2003 - Msg 12850: Hey, homemaker! If you've got room in your car/van/truck/camper/SUV, whatever you're driving, how about putting about four bags of goat manure in there for me? You could drop it off on your way through here, and then you could use that room to carry home the things you buy while you're here! My flowerbeds would just love that manure. There's a big turkey farm near Fredericksburg, and I sometimes get a few bags of turkeypoo and bring them home. Flowers love turkeypoo almost as well as they like cow or goat manure. Mr. Weaver recommends manure very highly, especially for roses.

Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena

March 25, 2003 - Msg 12851: Afternoon Y'all! My rock is yellow,my car is yellow,I think I am turning yellow from all this pollen! Ah-choo! It is terrible for folks like me with allergies.On the plus side,the weather is lovely,the trees and flowers are so pretty too.I'll survive! Ah-choo! Ha Ha
Yes,God is in charge of the situation in Iraq. I know He is watching over our troops and that no weapon formed against them shall ever prosper.My daughter went through Navy boot camp(she was injured while in BC and was honorably discharged) and she told me today that they go through some heavy duty training concerning being taken hostage and that our POWs were trained for whatever comes in the days ahead.I pray that they stay strong and courageous.I'm sure they know the prayers of America are with them and we'll do all we can to get them home safely.
God Bless our Troops and allies.Love to you all!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
March 25, 2003 - Msg 12852:
Romeena, CT, everyone.. great to see you again, too. I knew I'd butched poor Barn's line. Reading what I typed, I realized it should be something like, "if someone would just kill someone..." Oh well, can't take it back now. I got my britches caught on my own pitchfork and I gotta accept it. :-)

Btw, the younguns are almost through with 5th grade, Ro, but it still boggles the mind. They're supposed to be toddling around the house in diapers, not lugging binders, backpacks and musical insruments.

Here's one for all you parents out there:

"Pony boy, pony boy
Won't you be my pony boy
Giddyup giddyup giddyup whoa...
My pony boy"

There are lots of variations on that song, but ain't it cute? Blessings to all.

~De§~

March 25, 2003 - Msg 12853: How is everybody? Sonds like I'm not the only one suffering from the pollen here. My eyes been swollen and watery all weekend. Had a rough day at work today but I got tomorrow off so maybe things will get better. I hope you all are doin good too. Take care and I'll see yas later. Love ya all--Salty Dog
March 25, 2003 - Msg 12854: Thanks Romeena for the information on the cottonwood,.I know I must have seen them,just can"t remember seeing them.i do remember mesquite and pine trees .does anyone live in or near BAY city Texas? I used to live there for awhile. I will stop by later porch,take care everyone.Teresa
March 25, 2003 - Msg 12855: It looks like we are going to need a roll call for a few people - Asa, Mavis. . and a few others. . .where are you all?

March 25, 2003 - Msg 12856: Hi to all! Prayers for our troops. Seems like it could be a long haul. Sure hope not. Thanks for the lyrics to My Little Buckaroo, Ro. Yup, that's the song. I too will take some manure, homemaker. Maybe I can get Sterling to haul it for me and share some of them fries! Stay awhile this time, De§! Hey to Pickles and Teresa! I second the motion on the roll call! Let's hear some voices...Mavis? Asa? Hazel? Clara? Hey, Ed Sawyer, I just saw your ep again the other day. Curious. Curious. Peculiar! The teacher said my neck looked mighty peculiar. What's peculiar mean? Opie: dirty.
Charlotte Tucker
March 25, 2003 - Msg 12857: behold thy children
behold thy children, precious Lord,
in all parts of the earth-
uplift each heart and guide each mind,
and give each child its birth...
behold thy children, orecious Lord,
of every clime and creed-
fulfill their many dreams, oh Lord,
and sanctify each need...
behold thy children, precious Lord,
of every tongue and race,
and out salvation in each soul,
and a smile on every face!
tom

March 25, 2003 - Msg 12858: Here ya go, De§. www.perfessorbill.com/lyrics/lyponyby.htm

I think that's what you're looking for. --Romeena
March 26, 2003 - Msg 12859: Good evening! Ro, I agree completely with your suggestions for seeing the hill country. I especially love Fredricksburg. My husband and I like to spend our anniversaries there at an old stone cottage outside of town. It is a very nice place to visit but is very hot in the summer. I think Homemaker and her little ones one enjoy Concan and tubing on the Frio, don't you , Ro? There is probably a website for Neal's Campground.
Homemaker, Texas is really big, so let us know where in Texas you are planning to be and we can give you more specific information. The beaches here are not great because the water isn't the pretty blue water you see on the west coast. If you go down to South Padre Island, the beaches are beautiful but that is a long way from you. Lots of folks like to visit Mexico if they are down here and that can be fun if you like to shop. Be prepared for culture shock, though. At least you wouldn't be shocked by the roasted goat hanging in the store windows!

Ro, my mother remembered where she learned the "turn around" song. She learned it from Captain Kangaroo, of all things.

Well, better go hit the hay. Ya'll have a good night.

Boo

Where's Asa?!
March 26, 2003 - Msg 12860: Asa, WAKE UP! You need to watch the bank!
CT
March 26, 2003 - Msg 12861: Hey all! Charlotte Tucker how are you? You are always welcoming folks and asking about folks, you are just a sweetheart. Hope everyone is well this fine day. I know all of our prayers on the porch are with the troops and I can't wait until they come home safe. Well, back to work for me. Have a wonderful, Mayberry knida day!

Ed Sawyer
March 26, 2003 - Msg 12862: HELLO PORCH FOLKS, MY FIRST TIME TO WRITE.
HOPE ALL IS WELL AND GOD BLESS. (smile) TO YALL
LORI 37 TN
March 26, 2003 - Msg 12863: Good afternoon porch, I'm home for lunch and thought I'd just drop by and rock a spell with y'all, Hello Lori37TN. grab a chair and set a spell with us glad to see a new face. :) Hey Ed CT AND Boo, whats for lunch? I finally got my printer to work, been trying for a few months . I said now God you'll have to fix this mess I can't figure it out and sure enough it went right in. :) Y'all have a grand day chat later.
Ellen Brown
March 26, 2003 - Msg 12864: Good afternoon - no goat manure for me today - I figure I'd let my blisters rest for a day.
I'll take goat doo over the sand the poor troops are battling anyday. Godspeed to them!

Welcome Lori from TN - good to see you!


homemaker
March 26, 2003 - Msg 12865: Welcome Lori,you have a great day.Teresa
March 26, 2003 - Msg 12866: Where is Mavis? Hey Bulbsnatcher, where you be?

Ellen Brown
March 26, 2003 - Msg 12867: Anybody know anything about the Cooranbong area of Australia. A friend is heading there on Friday and was wondering if there is anything especially not to be missed. I emailed him some sights of things I found on the web. Anyone know anything special. I got an email from Trevor today. He and Cherry, his wife LOVE the TAGS dvds I sent. Prayers for their family. He no sooner found a job and she looses hers. Worries Worries Worries.
My ankle pain comes and goes. Went in for just a consult with my chiropractor from before the surgery. He says I have a pinched nerve and after my spine is fully fused I will be able to have traction and most likely get relief from the pinched nerve in two weeks. He was a world of comfort. Now I just have to wait the next 6-9 months for it to fully fuse. I have a lead on a bone growth stimulator that was left to a health equipment loaning program upon the owner's death. I believe that a pinched nerve constitutes extreme circumstances and I will use it if I can get it. Surgeon's reccommendation or not. Shame on me.
fun girl
March 26, 2003 - Msg 12868: Hello to Lori! Keep coming back and tell us all about yourself.

Fun girl, I'm not sure what a pinched nerve feels like but I have been plagued over the years (off and on) with a very sharp pain in the left side of my back that runs down the left side of my fanny and the outside of my left leg. Dr told me it was caused by the sciatic nerve and is being irritated as it comes through the sacroileac joint. Funny thing is, he told me that the way to cure it would be to stay totally off my feet for about three months! Ha! I guess I will have to keep it forever. Sometimes it stabs me so quick and hard that I cry out before I can stop myself (pretty embarassing when you are standing at a patient's bedside). When I was pregnant, the pain was so bad at the end of the day that I would have to ease out of bed and crawl to the bathroom. Terrible!

Well, hope all you fine people have a peaceful sleep and a good day tomorrow. Until then....

Boo


March 27, 2003 - Msg 12869: Mornin Dears and Honeys! Only two more days till the weekend! It's been a long week for this tired possum,but I did manage to leave y'all some coffee and Krispy Kremes-enjoy and have a good day!
God Bless our troops and allies.
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
March 27, 2003 - Msg 12870: Morning porch... wow possum you sure an early bird.. I just knew I'd be the first one up this morning. Thanks for the coffee. I needed it big time. Yall have a good day. And if someone can, run by the bank and makde sure Asa is ok, I'm gettin pretty worried about him, and swing by the drug store too and see whats up with Mavis. I gotta run to work, but I'll see yas later on. Have a wonderful day today. --Salty Dog
March 27, 2003 - Msg 12871:
"Did I have a pain? Started right here in the side and shot down my leg, rared up the other side and around my back, and then went clean on up around my neck." (Emma Brand)
March 27, 2003 - Msg 12872: Morning everyone. Possum, those Krispy Kremes smell pretty good. I could never get anything like that at home. I'll stop by.
- Hazel
March 27, 2003 - Msg 12873: HI All will thing are o k here what all the warm weather we are have! but by this weekend we may have some anow .
I pop in one day this week and no one saw me.
TOM

March 27, 2003 - Msg 12874: Hey Tom, good to see you, friend. We've been having nice weather too but we also have the snow forecast for the weekend. Ick. Hi Hazel, it's good to see you too. I was worried about you (see Msg 12856). OK, we've found you. Now we still need to find Mavis and Asa. I'll call like a lake loon and maybe they'll hear me. HO-O-O-O, H-O-O-O
Charlotte Tucker
March 27, 2003 - Msg 12875: P.S. Thanks for them Krispy Kremes, possum! Fun girl, Glad Trevor likes TAGS. There's hope for him yet.
CT
March 27, 2003 - Msg 12876: Good Morning Porch!
I hope everyone is doing well today.

Tom, I saw you dropped in the other day, you always have just the right thing to say! We also have snow forcasted for this weekend! I have had just about enough of that!

Fun Girl, good luck with your back. It is always so wonderful when the doctors tell us we have to wait! Isn't there something they can do in the 6 to 9 month interim while you are waiting for your back to fuse? Seems like an awful long time...


Welcom to Lori, we hope to hear more from you, and where is Asa and Mavis? If'n they don't show up soon, we may have to set old Blue out lookin' for 'em!

I thought I would mention, I found a site where you can add your name to an electronic thank you card for the troops. Over 9 million people have already signed it, and I just added my name. I can give you the address, but you will have to copy it into your address bar. Here it is: http://www.defendamerica.mil/nmam.html I feel pretty helpless to do anything for our troops, but if there is any way to let them know how much we appreciate what they are doing, I want to be a part of it, and I thought some of you might want to also.

Does anyone have a napkin, I have to wipe all this sugar off my mouth from those Krispy Kremes, thanks possum!

GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS
Mary Wiggins
March 27, 2003 - Msg 12877: A quiet day here on the porch.


March 27, 2003 - Msg 12878: HEY ALL. I FEEL SO WELCOMED TO THE PORCH.I HAVE LOVED WATCHING ANDY ALL MY LIFE. I AM 37.
IF I HADDA SEEN YOUS ACOMIN I TELL YOU WHAT ID DO
IDA RIS BOTH HANDS AND WOVE AT YOU.

LOVE YA LOTS
PRAYING FOR YALL

LORI
March 27, 2003 - Msg 12879: Afternoon Y'all! Glad you enjoyed the KK's! Hey Salty,I've been up early EVERY day this week at 3:30 am and not by choice either-just wake up.I think the allergy meds I've been taking this week are doing it.Weather's been nice and we've had the kids on the playground each day,so I pop a Claritin before heading out into the pollen.It rained today,so we didn't go out,therefore,no allergy pill.Sure hope I can get a good night's sleep tonight.Gonna hit the ironing board right after TAGS tonight.
Welcome to our new Porchster Lori! You'll love it here.I'm gonna send a posse out to look for Asa! Mavis too-hope they are doing okay.
Well,I'm about to burn a meatloaf if I don't get it out of the oven pronto,so tired possum's gonna sign off! Y'all have a good evening-love to all!
God Bless our Troops and allies.Gotta get me some yellow ribbon to tie around my rock!I had some but as y'all can see I just tied it up on the Porch here.Come home soon guys.
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
March 27, 2003 - Msg 12880: Hey, Lori! You are indeed welcome to the porch, and that quote from Ernest T. is one of my favorites! Now, here's what you need to do, but only if you want to. It's not a requirement, but it's fun if you do it. Put your bucket on your head, and see if you can thank up a name for yourself. Look through the archives, and see what names are in use, and that will also give you an idea as to what sort of names we take. Generally, we don't use the three main characters, but anyone else is fair game. You'll see that our folks are pretty imaginative. Some use a character's name, some a descriptive name, like our dear "homemaker", and some use their own names, and that's okay too. The name I chose for myself has carried over into my life to some extent, I use it as a screen name for email, and I guess if someone addressed me by that name in the grocery store, I'd answer! Anyway, welcome to The Porch, and pull up a rocker. This porch is expandable, always room for one more rocker. Sometimes somebody has to get down there with them spiders and fix the "expanders" but there's always room. Have a great Mayberry week. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
March 27, 2003 - Msg 12881: Hello all! Nice to meet you Lori. I had a 'puter crash a few days ago. Back in business now. LOve to all!

Briscoe Darling Jr.
March 27, 2003 - Msg 12882: Hello, All. Hope you are all enjoying beautiful Spring weather.

Mary Wiggins, one of the greatest things you can do for the troops is pray. Pray and believe that it makes a difference (and it will!). "The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.". You have so much compassion and concern for those serving in the military that I am sure your prayers are fervent.

Ya'll have a beautiful, peaceful evening.

Boo

Asa, where are you?
March 27, 2003 - Msg 12883: Praise God Porch, my granddaughter's just called me, the one that I mentioned here back, The oldest girl told her mommy last night she wanted to se me and the youngest one agreed and she let them call me. they set a date for April 12th isn't that wonderful, thank you all for your prayers, I'm going to see them in April I can't wait. Praise God. Thank you all. Can you tell I'm as HAPPY as a grandma could ever be. Thanks again for all the prayers. Bless you.

Ellen Brown
March 27, 2003 - Msg 12884: That's wonderful, dear Ellen Brown! As a grandmother myself, my heart can feel your joy. God is good. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
March 28, 2003 - Msg 12885: Hey porch pals,
The chiro says there ain't much I can do other that get a good massage once in a while, but let me tell ya what I did last night. And NO this ain't no joke. I was hurtin' so bad in my hips I liked ta cried. I went over to the YMCA and sat in the hot tub for a while and then came home and was still mighty sore. I was lookin' high and low for my FLEXAL 454. Well what did I see staring at me from the medicine shelf? You guessed if folks, my little blue jar of VICKS. I thought to my self, "Self, if it smells that powerful, it must do a world of good on sore muscles." I read the label and sure enough, it said to soak your sore muscles with VICKS, soak em good. So I put on a pretty thick layer and then layed on the heating pad for just long enough to get a little warm and let me tell ya, that was the best releif I have had in a month o' Sundays. So once again, VICKS to the rescue. Maybe we outta start out own VICKS fan club web page, seeing as how we all seem to be overly fond of the stuff.

Trevor says he and Cherry think TAGS is "hysterical" and I couldn't agree more. There was one a local station here last night where Andy lets Barney be sheriff for a day, before he decides whether to move to Greendale or not. (This is the one where Rafe turns himself in.) It was quite hysterical. In the begining Barn is gonna "pick Otis'subconscious" while he thinks Otis is asleep to find out where the Rafe Hollister still is. After he realizes Otis is jerking his chain, Andy says he outta write a book and call it the "BARNEY FIFE SUBCONCIOUS PICKER PRIMER" Fungi and I thought that was a riot and decided if we ever open our own chapter, that is what we will name it.

Hope you all have a good day and that the rain stays away from your end of the porch. We are supposed to have snow here on our end on Sunday.
IVEHEARDJUSTABOUTENOUGHABOUTTHATTHERESNOWFORAWHILE
fun girl
March 28, 2003 - Msg 12886: Oh, and Hey to the Plum.
fun girl
March 28, 2003 - Msg 12887: Morning porch, hope you all have a good day and a wonderful weekend too. Looks like we are gonna have to form a search party... Haven't heard from Asa, Mavis, NN or Briscoe in a while. I could sure use some of Briscoes toe tappin music this morning to get me goin. Off to work See ya's later. Love ya all--Salty Dog
March 28, 2003 - Msg 12888: Mornin' porch. I'm gonna email Mavis. Somebody check on Asa. What are those two up to anyway? Have a Mayberry Day!
Charlotte Tucker
March 28, 2003 - Msg 12889: Good Spring Morning to ya'll! It is supposed to be lovely today and nasty tomorrow. Oh well - opening day for baseball is Monday for the Cincy Reds - let's hope their new ballpark can make them a decent team!
Let's hear it for VICKS to the rescue again - glad you are feeling better fun girl. You have had some not so fun times!
And three cheers for Ellen - I am so glad you'll see your grandchildren. I bet it will be a special day for you all. Remember to spoil them well that day. Maybe even give their momma a flower so you can tell her how much you appreciated the visit with them. As my daddy says - kill her with kindness!
I think I'll see if can email Asa. What is his deal anyway - it is about time those golf clubs came out and he went to weedwacking!

Have a great day!

God keep our troops safe!

homemaker
March 28, 2003 - Msg 12890: Hello all! Hey Salty Dog, Here is "Salty Dog". TGIF! Here we go.

Briscoe Darling Jr.
March 28, 2003 - Msg 12891: Morning Porch, how are y'all doing? I only have one thing to say,"WE WANT ASA, WE WANT ASA, WE WANT ASA!" and "WE WANT MAVIS, WE WANT MAVIS, WE WANT MAVIS!" And anyone else who has been missing! Like Sterling, and New Neighbor, and Ed Sawyer! Y'all come back here and visit us y'hear?!
Have a great day!
Mary Wiggins
March 28, 2003 - Msg 12892: AFTERNOON PORCH FOLKS, GLAD EVERYONE SEEMS TO BE
HAVIN A GREAT DAY. IT IS A BEAUTY HERE IN EAST TN.
YOU ALL JUST BARE WITH ME WHILE I GET USED TO THIS
PORCH THING.THANK GOD FOR THE VISIT FOR ELLEN AND THE GRANS.HE IS TRULY GOOD ALL THE TIME. GLAD THE
MEETINGS AT MY CHURCH ARE NOT "DRY AS DUST" EVEN
THOUGH I AM A BLONDE MOSTLY FROM A BOTTLE.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL. I BEST GET BACK TO WORK.
LORI

March 28, 2003 - Msg 12893: Thanks for all the prayers.

Camp Lejeune
March 28, 2003 - Msg 12894: Good mid morning Porch, (at least it's mid-morning here in Las Vegas). Hope all ya'll are doing well. What a fine day it is. Weather's great and our hearts are full of pride and prayer for all of our troops. Hello goes out to Charlotte Tucker, Briscoe Darling Jr., fun girl, Romeena, Boo, Asa, Camp Lejeune, Salty Dog, Ellen Brown, possum under a rock, Lori, and anyone else I forgot. Take care all and have a great Mayberry kinda day.

Ed Sawyer
March 28, 2003 - Msg 12895: Good afternoon porch,I'm home for lunch having myself some good ole raisin bran, LOL. Prayers for our Troops and hey to SugarPlum, my 2 lil ones are outdoors doing their bussiness. LOL Mr Bojangles & Pollyanna say hey to the Plum. Hello Lori & Camp Lejeune, our prayers will always be with you, God Bless y'all and have a great afternoon.
Ellen Brown
March 28, 2003 - Msg 12896: Hey there, Porch Buddies...

I sure have missed you folks! I posted one little message on the first day of spring, but I've been stayin' away from the porch whilst I got all this nicotine out of my system. Let me tell you...I've been a BEAST...a real BEAST.

I am going to go out on a limb here and say that I now consider myself a non-smoker. Everybody pray for me every now and then that I can stay that way 'because there are moments when something really upsets me that I SHORE DO want one!

Anyways, I've been smoke free basically for 3 weeks (entirely smoke-free for 2, but I only slipped with like 1 or 2 cigarettes during the first of 3 weeks, so "3 weeks" give me more of a boost). The sad thing about it all is that now I don't enjoy my computer any more. I used to like to sit down at it, type a while, and have a smoke. I don't seem to enjoy much of anything now, but I've heard that will wear off. We'll see. If it doesn't soon, I'm going BACK to Marlboro country! LOL

Love to all, and God bless our troops and allies. WE DEFY THE MAFIA!

Bulbsnatcher

March 28, 2003 - Msg 12897: test

March 28, 2003 - Msg 12898: Hey Ed, Just a funny story I shared with everyone a year or so back when it happened, but seeing as how you are from Vegas, you will probably get a chuckle out of it. Fungi and I went to Vegas for 4 days and stayed at the Monte Carlo. As a gag we took a picture of his 12 dollar watch sitting in the safe in our hotel room. When we got back, my nephew Emory, who was 5 at the time asked me, "Why did Uncle Mike put his watch in the microwave?" Aren't kids a hoot?
fun girl
March 28, 2003 - Msg 12899: hi,porch.Hope you are all having a beautiful mayberry kind of day.We are in PA.It is 80 degrees here today,I,m ready to go camping and fishing.What do you say we all get together and go fishing?I'll pack a big lunch for usand,maybe we can even get some of Rafe "s moonshine.See you all later.Take Care everyone and god bless.Teresa