August 11, 2004 - Msg 22847: I finally found you Charlotte. I had been looking at the wrong pictures (just the golf ones) I decided to check out the dinner ones and there you were. You are very pretty, Charlotte (even cuter than the squirrel)! I'll bet you have changed less than alot of folks at that reunion.

Boo
August 11, 2004 - Msg 22848: Wow Boo...you swept!!

--Floyd
August 11, 2004 - Msg 22849: Folks...have any of you noticed the porch seeming "slow" when you load it or post a message? I'm looking at moving TAGSRWC.com to fix the problem and just wondered if y'all were noticing it.

--Floyd
August 11, 2004 - Msg 22850: Floyd, I'm on a DSL connection and sometimes it takes 3-4 seconds to load a whole page. Thanks for all you do for us! ~ Mrs. Wiley
August 11, 2004 - Msg 22851: Yeah...That's what I'm seeing..I'm gonna get it moved by next week. There might be a little while where the site won't let folks post....just wanted to let everybody know. --Floyd
August 11, 2004 - Msg 22852: Thanks, Floyd. It seems to be pretty slow here on my end.

Boo
August 11, 2004 - Msg 22853: Hey yall..Well another night of VBS and I am pooped again. Fortunately the girls are asleep and I will be soon. I just wolfed down a huge baked potatoe,and its almost 10:30..got to stop eating so late this week.
Boo: yea, the beaches on the East are nice too. I have never been on the West Coast, but I bet its beautiful. Dixie: How is the weather? I didnt think Charlotte had red flowers in her shirt...I'll have to go back and check again. Oh Boo: yes, I can relate to you about all the running. I am not as busy as a lot of moms I know though, so I am fortunate. I even get to take a nap occasionally! Only if the baby is asleep and I can only take a shower when she is asleep too, she'd be into everything and I'd be scared of what my 3 year old would do to her! Well yall have a great night and day tomorrow..I am taking the baby to the Dr for her 9 month appt.

Alyce
August 11, 2004 - Msg 22854: Oh, Alyce, now I know the confusion. I had on a red and white striped shirt at golf with my son and a white shirt with red flowers at the reunion dinner with my hubby. (I must like red more than I thought.) I'll have to check out that place Big Tom's a talkin' about. We sure did like Cade's Cove. I took a picture of the Primitive Baptist church there cuz I was raised in such a church. We go to an evangelical church now though. Boo, I know what you mean about doing everything for everybody. I work at home and lately I can't get my work done. I told my husband that if volunteer jobs paid anything, I'd be rich. It seems I prefer those to the paying kind. : ) Alyce, as long as you can get those naps in, enjoy 'em!
Charlotte Tucker
August 11, 2004 - Msg 22855: P.S. Thanks for the compliments, Boo. Actually the boys from our class decided that they thought the girls had aged much better than they had.
CT
August 12, 2004 - Msg 22856: Mornin' Y'all.Looks like the South is gonna get a double punch with Bonnie & Charley.Can y'all imagine the rain that's coming? Geesh! Both are gonna move across S.C.-Bonnie today,Charley later this weekend.Sure hope Charley gets torn up on his journey across Cuba-don't want a full blown hurricane! Hugo was MORE than enough for me!
Mrs. Wiley,Dixie,and all the Florida/Southern porchsters take care and stay safe!
Hey to Floyd!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
August 12, 2004 - Msg 22857: sometimes when my little girl was a baby and a toddler, i would bring her into the bathroom with me to take a shower, i would have enough toys or a snack to keep her busy and i could watch her at the same time......this is also great when they are small enough to be in a bouncy seat......whatever works......today is the last day of swimming lessons for my kids,lately the weather has turned cooler, the kids yesterday were freezing getting in and out of the pool......todays high will only be 85....we have had a cooler summer this year....love,sara
August 12, 2004 - Msg 22858: Good Morning yall..I wish these storms would just vanish..we are expecting rain from them, but we have had tons of rain! Get em out before my vacation on Sunday!
Yall have a great day..

Alyce
August 12, 2004 - Msg 22859: Sara, yep, that would work for some kids..but not mine..The older one is fine by herself, but the baby would never just sit in the bathroom and play, she would probably crawl into the shower!!

Alyce
August 12, 2004 - Msg 22860: Rain, rain, rain..... It's been raining pretty much for 3 days straight. Our rivers rose 5 feet last night. We're under flash flood watch but that's nothing new in my neck of the woods. We are right smack dab in between two rivers, the Apalachicola and the Chipola.

Hurricane update: Bonnie hits us today and charlie hits us Saturday but no one is quite sure where in Florida he'll go.

Big Tom, I apologize for telling a lie yesterday about Charlie being here next week. I didn't realize that the prediction had changed so much from the night before. I'll do my best to get them out of the way for ya. Everything should be just about cleared up by Saturday evening and at least by Sunday. You be careful traveling :).

Thanks to everyone for thinking about us Floridians. Keep us in your prayers.

A very soggy

Dixie Belle
August 12, 2004 - Msg 22861: This weather is just plain weird! I couldn't believe I was sitting in the den last night and I heard a big gust of wind hit the house so I ran outside and it was an actual, honest-to-goodness cool front! The first in the known history of South Texas to hit this early. I have never seen a cool front in August in my lifetime (that I recall). We got lots of rain and storms from the mixing of the hot and cool air. I got up early this morning and sat outside for an hour just soaking in the air out of the North. Its not cold by any means but much cooler than usual. I love it!

Well, I'm off to visit my parents and help my dad with some chores. Have a good day and stay safe,

Boo
August 12, 2004 - Msg 22862: Prayers for Laci, pipeman, Mrs. Wiley, Mavis, those in the path of the hurricanes, and everyone else (cuz we all need 'em, don't we).

The cool front has hit us too - yesterdays high only 73° (last nights low 50°) - expecting the same today. I saw where some folks in Minnesota didn't even make it out of the 50's yesterday. Brrr. Makes a person wonder what Old Man Winter has in mind in a few months...

((hugs))
AFD!
August 12, 2004 - Msg 22863: hmmmmmm.... from the way everyone keeps talking this weather of ours is acting strangely. Well, we have no hurricane here. It rained this morning but it's all sunshine now.

Strange I say.....

Dixie

August 12, 2004 - Msg 22864: Hey all, Can ya'll please send some of that Florida rain to Las Vegas? Jeez, it is hot (115 degrees) everyday and every night. Tell me where else does it measure over a hundred after midnight? I'll take the humidity. Anything but this sun beaming down on you, cooking everything in sight. Welcome to August in Vegas I guess. Sorry to rant but the heat, it got to me. Take care all and have a Pleasant, Cool, Refeshing, Mayberry Kinda Day!

Ed "Roasting" Sawyer
August 12, 2004 - Msg 22865: Hey yall..
Everyone around here, well one person in particular, is just torn up over the weather..We probably will only get some rain and a bit of wind. I am just ready to get to the beach! We havent really had a cool down this week though. Let me get to the beach and it be really warm, the way I want it, then when we get back it can cool right on down! I'd like that. Well getting ready to go see my little one sing for the Bible School program. I hope she does well, since she only had a car ride nap!

Alyce
August 12, 2004 - Msg 22866: hELLO
August 12, 2004 - Msg 22867: Thanks for the prayers AFD, looks like I'm going to dodge the bullet on this storm. Sounds like Ed Sawyer is half-mad with thirst. Just remember Ed, if you see any horses be sure to give 'em the right of way.

~ Mrs. Wiley

August 12, 2004 - Msg 22868: hope all the Fla. porch sitters made it through hurricane Bonnie safely ,saw on the news where thenext one ,Charlie ,will hit Fla. Saturday ,the governor has called for 800,000 people to evacuate hope everyone makes it through the storms safely SPOT ... you might be busy when the storms come through Ga.
ED SAWYER ...115 is mighty hot ,sure dont envy you folks
mayberry deputy
August 12, 2004 - Msg 22869: Hey porchters,Bonnie blew up toward the Carolinas and Charlie better be gone by Sunday.Dixie, keep me posted I'm relyin' on you girl to keep me up ta' date. My wife is as nervous as a long tailed cat in a room full of rockin' chairs. See last honeymoon we had back in the '70s a hurricane blew us from Panama City back to Tn. We been Destin bound ever sence. Hey Ed go over the hill to the East. Theres a big ol' lake over there, bigger than Myres lake...Big Tom
August 12, 2004 - Msg 22870: Hey to the porch. Hope you are all doing well. I add my prayers to all who may be in storms way. Sounds just awful.
Glad your safe from it Mrs. Wiley. How ya been feeling?
Charlotte, I took a gander at your pictures and have to say my your purty. And you golf as well. What a nice combination.
Possum, prayers for your Laci. I just know she will do well. Hang in there. How's your Mom doing?
I don't think I got a chance to welcome some of the new comers, Big Tom, Sara, Alyce. Welcome and have fun here.
Pipeman, I hope your doing better. God bless bud.
Hope Romeena is doing ok. I miss her.
Y'all take care and keep smiling.

Asa
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22871: Mornin' Y'all Thanks for the prayers for Laci and please keep them coming. Asa,my mom seems to be doing well-thanks for asking. She is as nervous as a cat what with these tropical storms coming at us and she's concerned about Laci,but other than that her heart hasn't been giving her any trouble.Got the info packet in the mail yesterday regarding Laci's surgery-no big surprises in there since we've researched ASD ever since Laci was diagnosed.Just biding our time till the 27th and I am praying without ceasing.Yes,Laci will be alright-God has already told me.Laci goes to church and "sings" and "prays" along with the congregation,so I'm certain God has talked to her about the surgery too.She has faith.
We had some rain last night (Bonnie)which didn't amount to much and we're expecting Charley sometimes Sat. Florida is going to get the worst.Prayers for all Floridians in its path.
Thinking of Mrs. Wiley and Dixie and all of our Porchsters in Charley's path. Y'all stay safe & let us hear from you ASAP. God Bless!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22872: Good Morning everyone!
Prayers for all in harms way with the hurricanes. Bonnie gave us some rain...Looks like we are going to get lots more from Charley.
Thanks for the welcome Asa..see you at the Hotel. The VBS program went so good last night. My little girl was a trip! She stood up (the only one in her class that did) and just sang and danced..so cute! Then at the end she was up front just getting into it. I am so glad its over though cause it was some late nights.
Well yall have a great day!

Alyce
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22873: oh by the way..Possum, how old is Laci?

Alyce
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22874: Thanx to everyone for thinkin' about us hurricane endagered porchsitters. I'm in the panhandle and I'm okay. The weather is REAL nice this morning. It's overcast but so cool..... I love it when we get a break from our normal Florida weather.

Big Tom- here's the latest on Charlie. He's supposed to hit somewhere around Tampa today. I'm thinking they said later today, like this afternoon. So unless that changes this side of Florida should only see some rain. Fishin' in Destin shouldn't be affected too much. If that changes with the morning weather reports we're getting today I'll let you know.

Hey to everyone a rockin' today. Push your chairs closer to the wall.... we may see more rain today :).


Dixie Belle

"The govenor, is coming here, to shake my hand? Bless his heart."
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22875: oh -oh... did it again test
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22876: Ack! testing now
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22877: whew.... I almost had an epidemic on my hands!

DB
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22878: Mornin' porch friends. Glad everyone is safe from the storms. I heard there was a pretty bad tornado last night in North Carolina.

Good to hear from you, Asa. I miss Ro alot, too. Hope she gets home soon and that she had a good experience (can't wait to hear about it).

I am going to visit my sister-in-law, Linda today who I have mentioned was recently diagnosed with cancer. She had to have more surgery to remove her lymph nodes (her third surgery in 2 weeks!). She is supposed to start radiation in 4 weeks. Sounds like a long time to wait, doesn't it? I don't know much about cancer treatment. My husband saw her last night and said they had to cut her from behind one ear to nearly the other ear and down one side of her neck, poor thing. I hope I can encourage her. Last time I talked with her she was doing pretty well, just a little scared from time to time if she lets her mind wander.

My garage sale is on Saturday so I have lots to do today!

Bye,
Boo

Alyce, I think Laci is about a year old but I'm not positive.
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22879: Otis:"Well, I never fell out of bed onto the wall before...Uncle Nat, what are you doing here?"
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22880: "Put that in your smipe and poke it."

Boo I hope that Linda comes through everything okay. Keep us posted and tell her I said we can do all things through Christ who Strengthens us.

Dixie
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22881: Hey yall..
yep a bad tornado in NC last night. I read that 3 were killed and like 25 injured. Not good. Hope everyone stays safe..get in your bathtubs!

Alyce
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22882: Why? It's not Saturday yet is it? Bath time now?
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22883: I hope everyone in Florida is either out of the way of that hurricane or tied down to something real sturdy! I heard that hurricane was just upgraded(and I don't mean in a good way) and expected to get worse. I'm sure everyone here will keep those in it's path in their thoughts and prayers.

Sorry about your tornado Alyce, I'm glad you didn't get swept up by it. Sad for those that did.

Speaking of bathtubs, I've been kind of busy renovating our tiny bathroom. It's still tiny but now it has new flooring and it at least LOOKS a little bigger with a smaller sink. I have to admit, I'm no handyman! That's why things like this take me so long. Still have some caulking and moulding to do, but it is looking better than the old way. Carpet in the bathroom?! I never thought that was a good idea, and we finally got rid of it. I was surprised that there was nothing growing underneath it when I tore it up.
Hope everyone has a good day!
-Sterling Holobyte
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22884: Sterling..hey, nope I am not in NC, but VA, so the tornado didnt get to us. But yea, Charley is now a 4 so he is getting fierce. We are in a mobile home right now so I am wondering if I should get out tomorrow..oh how I cant wait till our house gets built. I feel like one of the 3 little pigs..LOL. Good luck on remodeling your bathroom. Our bathroom had carpet in it too, real stupid to me and I hated it. But..I flooded our b-room one night so we had to take the carpet up and put down vinyl. My husband thinks I planned that one! ha!

Alyce
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22885: Thanks Alyce, I need the luck, being that I am all thumbs when it comes to remodeling. And sorry, I don't know why I thought you were in NC, just because you spoke of it.
I hope you're building your house out of brick!;)

Stay safe!
-Sterling Holobyte
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22886: Sterling..only the foundation is brick! Going to be siding. But anything is probably better than this. And, just to clarify, I didnt really flood our bathroom on purpose. I was running bath water..into a big corner garden tub at that, and I fell asleep on top of the bed..when I woke up water was every where, even into the bedroom..we had to get new carpet in the bedroom too.

Alyce
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22887: Hey Y'all. Alyce,Laci just turned 11 months old on Aug.7th( Boo,you had it right!).We hope she'll be recovered enough by Sept. 7th for her birthday.If not,we'll have a big "shindig" later for her.Please keep her in your prayers-open heart surgery on the 27th.
Poor Florida.Category 4 is terrible.Hope our Florida porchsters are hanging in there ok.S.C. is going to get Charley tomorrow morning,I think is what they're saying.It will hit (so they say) as a minimal hurricane.We could still have a mess on our hands with trees down,power outages,etc.Alyce,you're in N.C.? Be careful-these hurricanes can be rough on y'all too.Are you near the Outer Banks? My sister lives inland near Roanoke Rapids and they've gotten banged up by a few hurricanes,so I sure hope you'll be safe.The sun is shining right now-weird,weird weather.
Y'all stay safe! Love to all!
**********
possum under a rock
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22888: Just remembered our food fixin' dog Spot over in Georgia- stay safe too Spot! I know you'll be out there keeping the lights on.Take care!
*********
possum again
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22889: Hey yall...
Possum: best wishes for a smooth surgery and recovery for Laci. I am not in NC..but not far. We are a couple of hours from the Outer Banks..we are heading there Sunday. And we are probably 1 hour from Roanoke Rapids..we're in VA. Yes, we have gotten banged up bad from hurricanes before too. Floyd flooded us terribly..all of downtown was underwater..LITERALLY!..and Isabel brought a lot of wind damage.
Well off to do more packing for our vacation..

Alyce
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22890: Dixie,keep your eyes pealed, we're leavin' on Sunday headin' south. 'Preciate the info on Charley and our thuoghts and prayres are with 'ya'll caught in the wrath of this deadly storm. Alyce,be careful and safe on your trip and we'll talk after we get back from Destin. I gave her an option to go to Cancun but she declined. So I lucked out again,lets go fishin'.Hey how ' bout supper at Lamberts 'throwed roll cafe in Foley,Al.'bout Tuesday evenin'...my treat...they treat you so many ways ya' bound to find one ya' like, and the best food ya' ever ate.They throw rolls to ya' when ya' hold up ya' hand.Night all...see ya' tomorrow...Big Tom
August 13, 2004 - Msg 22891: Been watchin' the weather channel all day since my dad is here from his home in Ft. Myers. Looks like they escaped without too much damage. My other relatives are in Jacksonville and have a vacation place in Edgewater. It's near Daytona and could get some of the worst of it. Time will tell. Does Briscoe live in Florida or just vacation there? He needs to check in. Hope Charley goes on out to sea without botherin' you porchsters in the Carolinas. Asa, you make me blush. True, I golf, but I ain't too great at it. I just love it. When does Ro return? Does anyone know? I forgot she went on that trip.
Dry and cool (very cool) in Illinois,
Charlotte Tucker
August 14, 2004 - Msg 22892: Hey Big Tom - we have a Lambert's 15 minutes away from my house (near Ozark MO), and there's also one in Sikeston MO (the original Lamberts' - GOOD eatin'!

Seems like Ro was gonna be gone around two weeks, Charlotte. So I'd say she'll be back home sometime in the next few days.

Prayers for all, especially those affected by Charley.

AFD!
August 14, 2004 - Msg 22893: Hey, everybody! I'm home, just barely. Got home about an hour ago. I'm tired beyond belief, my little Plum is still with my granddaughter and I miss her, and I'm about to fall into bed. The trip to Mongolia was an experience I'll never forget, and I'll very probably go again next year. More later..
Sugarplum would say hey if she was here! --Romeena
August 14, 2004 - Msg 22894: Good Morning All!..hey Ro,AFD,Mrs Wiley, Asa,possum,Alyce,Big Tom,Sterling,Dixie,MD,Boo,and all the porch..nice weather here so far in Ga.,..Im going to tybee island next tue for 4 days, play in the ocean!..its ham and egg bisquits this morning!..oj and coffee...gona read the mail..signed:SPOT the"gona take a trip next week" dog of your porch ...lights are on!
August 14, 2004 - Msg 22895: Morning all! Its 7:30, but I am not moving good yet. Been kicking my snoring husband for an hour. 3 yr old hopped into bed with us early too, so I left them and am waiting for the baby to wake up before I start my day. So much to do..I dont now how we'll leave tomorrow when I havent packed a great deal. Charley has gone down to a category 1 now, so that is a good thing for us.. We'll be sitting around waiting for his visit tonight!
Everyone take care..

Alyce
August 14, 2004 - Msg 22896: Thanks for the breakfast spot! Where are you going on your trip? Here's a mashed penny - it will bring you luck in your travels. Alyce and everyone else in Charley's path, please be careful. I read where the only hurricane fatality (other deaths caused by tornadoes) was a 20 year old boy who durring the worst part of the storm decided to go outside to smoke a cigarette. I wonder what St. Peter is saying to him right now...

Romeena, you are a sight for sore eyes! So glad the trip was a success, can't wait to hear your stories about it - but I know you must be dog tired from the flight. Plum sure will be tickled to see you! Do check in when you can. Asa: thank you for asking after me dear. I'm doing well - one lung still isn't quite up to par, but I'm working on that. The ribs (now removed) ache where they broke them off and I have to stretch every day to keep the scar tissue from curling me up like a pork rind, but I'm off all the nasty pain meds now and feeling good. Ready to start planning surgery #2 for... October? Still waiting to hear from the Dr.

Y'all have a fine day and you folks in GA, SC and NC... DUCK!!!

~ Mrs. Wiley

August 14, 2004 - Msg 22897: been busy with the daycare and my own two.....sosorry to hear about hurricane charley and the deaths......it looks horrible on the news.....be careful everyone that is in harms way.....we are prayin for the porchsters that will be having surgery,i am signing my daughter up for more dance classes this morning and a meeting at the church to do a mural for them....our womens conference is called , if you want to walk on water, you have to get out of the boat......should be interesting......gotta go mow the grass, the weather here is very cool for august, bye,sara
August 14, 2004 - Msg 22898: Tybee Island Mrs Wiley...on the Ga. coast...look at it on the web..tybeeisland.com..SPOT..hey sara.
August 14, 2004 - Msg 22899: Morning! Hey Big Tom come on down. The weather is absolutely B-E-utiful! Nice and cool for a change. No bad weather here. Fishin' ought to be real good :)

Hey Ro! Nice to see you! When get all rested up tell us about your trip.

Gotta get going this morning. Busy day ahead!

Dixie
August 14, 2004 - Msg 22900: Hey Romeena..glad you are back safely. We'll all be looking forward to hearing about your trip! Mrs. Wiley, bring me up to date please..I havent a clue what you are talking about..what are all these surgeries for dear? Hope you recover well! Sara, how old is your daughter that is taking dance? My daughter took it for one year, but now is in gymnastics. And says she wants to do both..NOPE is what I say to that! Have a great day..it is raining so much today...I am stressing trying to get everything packed!

Alyce
August 14, 2004 - Msg 22901: TONIGHTS MENU...grilled ribeye steaks and fried gulf shrimp!..large baked taters,corn on the cobb,butter and sour cream,bacon bits,those little green onions,A-1 and 57,eating outside on the picnic tables,red and white table cloths,season salt,pepper,and sweet tea..and a tear from my roll of paper towels!...lighting the grill at 6:30...and oh-yea will someone bring some slaw!..signed:SPOT the"gona pitch some horse shoes after we eat" dog of you fine porch...lights are on!
August 14, 2004 - Msg 22902: Man o man Spot, I'll be there for sure. Sounds like a meal that Jeff Pruitt would be proud of.
Romeena, so good to have you home. I'll bet Sugarplum will be beside herself to have you back too. Can't wait to hear your stories.
I sure hope all caught up in them storms are safe and dry. My goodness, what a disaster.
Glad your feeling better Mrs. Wiley. Hope the healing continues.
Well better go get ready for that big fat spot dinner.

Asa
August 14, 2004 - Msg 22903: Hello all! No, I aint fallin' off the Robert E. Lee. I'm glad school has started. Now, I can sit and rock a spell. Hello to the newcomers! Here is "Doug's Tune".

Briscoe Darling Jr.

August 14, 2004 - Msg 22904: SPOT.. you do set a fine spread ,truck race just finished ,Bobby Hamilton won and his son Bobby Jr. was 4th after leading most of the race .Cup guys start the road course race by points Sunday .
mayberry deputy
August 14, 2004 - Msg 22905: Just checking in to let y'all know that Charley didn't cause any damage in my part of SC-not even one DROP of rain!I'm inland 45 miles from Charleston and sure thought we'd have some effects from the storm.Surprise! Turned out to be a pretty day,with a few light breezes.Luckily the storm stayed off the coast with the worst part of it over the ocean. I think the Myrtle Beach & SC/NC border area got beat up a bit,but the rest of SC came through fine.Thank God! Prayers for Florida.
P.S. Please be with us in spirit tomorrow as Laci gets baptized.
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
August 14, 2004 - Msg 22906: WELCOME HOME ROMEENA! We missed you.

Well Mrs. Wiley, having one's cartilage curl up like a pork rind sound positively dreadful (ouch)! Hope the next surgery and recovery go smoothly.

Sounds like everyone is safe and sound, thank the Lord.

I had my garage sale for the missionary today. Lots of hard work (mostly for my husband, hehe) and not alot of money but I am sure it will help. Sure got hot here today but not as hot as Ed Sawyer's neck of the woods. I remember being in Phoenix in the summer and I had to carry something to open my car door with in the day because it was like grabbing something out of the oven, horrors!

Think I'll go get ready for that nice, comfy bed. Nighty-night.

Boo
August 14, 2004 - Msg 22907: "What are ya talkin' about, Berney? You told us to meet ya here"!
August 15, 2004 - Msg 22908: Howdy, all. I've read through the archives, and thank you all for your kind words, wondering how we were doing and all. I know you were praying for us, and our trip was very successful. Thanks, too, for the words of welcome, now that I'm home. Makes me feel all choked up with humbleness.

Mavis, I'm so sorry about your mom, honey. It sure does hurt, I know. I lost mine four years ago, and she was 80. I can't imagine losing her at age 61. Of course, my husband was only 58 when God took him home, so my kids could relate to your situation, I'm sure. I'll be praying for you, for strength and acceptance.

pipeman, you're such a dear. I'm so sorry you're having to endure such challenges with your health. The rain does fall upon the just and the unjust, doesn't it? I guess there are some things we're just not expected or meant to understand in this life, but God is in control, nevertheless. Little Laci is another example of that. Possum, I'm so glad things turned out well for your mom, and will surely be praying for a good outcome with Laci.

There are no words to describe our experiences in Mongolia, at least not any that I could find space for here. I kept a journal, and am planning to transcribe it in installments and email it to my family and some others who have asked for it, so if any of you wish to receive it, just email me at
Romeena@airmail.net, and I'll add you to the list.

We were told that making the trip to Mongolia would be life-changing. I certainly hope that's true. I'd hate to think I could have the experiences I had, and not have it affect me. It was incredible. Sad, happy, heart-breaking, uplifting, every emotion you can imagine. One thing is for sure - I've always been proud to be an American, and now I can say thank God I'm an American, because trust me, friends, at least the part of the world I was in lives very, very differently than we do.

I still don't have my little Plum, she's still with my granddaughter. Haven't been able to make contact with her, and she wasn't expecting me until tomorrow, so I expect I'll get my little Sugarplum back then. Sure do miss the little clown. She'd say hey if she knew I was writing. --Romeena
August 15, 2004 - Msg 22909: Hey yall..
Well we are off to the beach after church. I am so ready to leave. Yall have a great week. I am going to try and scope out Andy G. He lives at Roanoke Island..over near Manteo..where Ill be near..

Alyce
August 15, 2004 - Msg 22910: Hey Romeena, add me to your list. You have my a.d.
Have fun and be safe Alyce I hear Andy don't cotton to too much attention so be careful.
My prayers go out to those folks who have lost so much on the east coast. How very sad.
I think I'll head on over to the Diner and see whats on the lunch special. I just hope it ain't chicken wings. You get two wings, and usually from a chicken thats done a lot of flying.

Asa
August 15, 2004 - Msg 22911: Alyce have a great time!.hey boo,md,pipeman,ro,congrats to laci!..hey possum,asa,..good Sunday to all...its Race time!..#24 is gona be strong...got hot wings and veggies gut up fot the race...got plenty...blue cheese and ranch dressing...here at work..is is kinda cool got a 77 in tv build into the video wall here..its one of the video screens on the control board...well VARRRRROOOMM..signed:SPOT the"prayers to all in need and to the race drivers" dog of your porch!..lights are ON..hey will someone scrach behind my ears?
August 15, 2004 - Msg 22912: Afternoon Y'all! Laci looked like a little dollbaby today in church.I am so happy she is part of that wonderful church family.They sure love her,my daughter,& son-in-law.After baptizing Laci the pastor took her in his arms and walked amongst the congregation and he was wiping tears from his eyes as he spoke about Laci.That is one loved little girl!
Glad you are home safe & sound Romeena!Sure missed you! Alyce,have fun in Eastern N.C.and tell Andy "hey" for me if you run into him-you never know!
Y'all have a good Sunday evening!
*****PRAYERS FOR FLORIDA*****
possum under a rock

August 15, 2004 - Msg 22913: Good Sabbath Porchpals! Alyce, I had 2 ribs removed in June, have to have 2 more removed here soon. God brings us through trials, with our sanctification in mind. Congrats to little Laci today! I'll bet she was a 'lil dolly! BDJ, good to see ya! Thanks for scrubbin' one off for us. Asa, the Diner sounds like a good plan tonight - I don't feel like cooking. Should we get married before the coffee or after? :-)

~ Mrs. Wiley
Barney: "ANDY, LETS GO DOWN TO THE DINER AND GET A CUP OF COFFEE!!"

August 15, 2004 - Msg 22914: ROMEENA ...welcome back ,glad you enjoyed your trip . All the racing porch sitters .. todays race was good for a road course ,Tony Syewart won even thogh he was sick as a dog ,one of my favorites Mark Martin finished third ,not bad for one of the older drivers.hope everyone has a good evening MRS. WILEY ..
mayberry deputy
August 15, 2004 - Msg 22915: MRS. WILEY...why are they removing your ribs ???
for some reason my post above submitted itself before I was finished
mayberry deputy
August 16, 2004 - Msg 22916: Hey folks...welcome to the new server for TAGSRWC. I hope this helps improve our speeds when viewing and posting. --Floyd
August 16, 2004 - Msg 22917: Thanks, Floyd!

August 16, 2004 - Msg 22918: Are we working?
August 16, 2004 - Msg 22919: Yipee, we are.
Hey to the porch and thanks Floyd.

Asa
August 16, 2004 - Msg 22920: This guitar sittin here only has 5 strings.
---Ernest T.
August 16, 2004 - Msg 22921: Thanks Floyd - you are a real prince!

Romeena - what did you bring me? I have been really good and I haven't been mean to Asa at all since you have been gone. Talk about making a sacrifice - not being mean to Asa - that is! :) P.S. We are sure glad that you made it back in one piece and you are in your rocker! (Asa - he's off his rocker. . .I knew it couldn't last! :)

It's auction nite!

homemaker
August 16, 2004 - Msg 22922: Thanks, Floyd.

Hope everyone is well today. All the kiddos in my neighborhood went back to school today so things are quieter. We have had the greatest weather, too, much drier than usual and I actually saw some Tallow trees changing color! Very exciting stuff. I can't wait for the Fall and winter. The winter weather here is very nice.

Hope ya'll are having a good evening,
Boo
August 16, 2004 - Msg 22923: I'm baaaack! (Also)(Just in time for the auction, I see) Had a great week fishing the streams of northern AZ. Yes, we have a few forests up north. One fish I caught was about the size of Old Sam, but this was a TROUT, so I kept 'em! Teehee.
Good to have gotten away for a bit.
Romeeeena, welcome back! Your trip was way different than mine. Hope it all went well and that a few souls were saved too!
Thanks to all for saving our spots on the porch.
I see that Floyd pounded in a few nails and fixed 'er up a might! Thank ya Floyd.
Well, I need to go read the archives.
Hope none of yuz was nippin' at the stock whilest I was gone.
Good to be back.
Mr Darlin's Cuz
August 16, 2004 - Msg 22924: Hey Folks,

It will be one more day before everybody is for sure moved to the new server. It normally takes 3 days for server changes to get sent out to everybody on the Internet so I'm sure other folks will start dropping by tomorrow.

Let me know if you think things seem faster here. I believe they will be a good bit faster.

--Floyd
August 16, 2004 - Msg 22925: Sure is quite here right now. Night folks.

--Floyd
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22926: Morning Floyd,
Thank you so much for all the fine work you do--gettin' down there with them spiders and all. Busy day ahead. Maybe I can get Mr. Wheeler to help me with some of my work. tee hee. Welcome home MDC and Ro! You were missed. Boo, what are Tallow trees? Is that like "jump in the tallow"??
Charlotte Tucker
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22927: This is going to be my second attempt to post here, let's see if it works:
WELCOME BACK ROMEENA!!

You can put me on that list for your journal entries, you have my address also. I bet it was one of the most welcome sites you saw when you arrived home...looking out your big window at your beautiful yard! So glad to have you back!

Boo, that was awful nice of you to have a garage sale for your missionary friend. I know how much hard work is involved, and I am sure they were grateful for all you did! (How did you keep your little one out of trouble while doing the garage sale!?)

Prayers continue for Laci, and Mrs. Wiley, and Mavis and family, and all those devastated by the hurricane...

Have a wonderful trip Alyce and Spot. (Spot when are you going to Tybee Island?)

I hope Big Tom's having fun on his trip!

We just finished our last art show for the year! We had wonderful weather for it, sunny and temps in the low 70's. Now I have to get the house back in order before we head to Glacier in September. I am really looking forward to that trip. Hey Asa, would it be too much to ask you to drive up to northern Montana and come say hi to us while we are there? You're already in Utah, aren't ya? It can't be THAT far away!! LOL

I have to go mow the lawn and then put up the tent so I can clean it out and put it away for the season so I guess I better get a move on!

Have a wonderful Mayberry Summer Day all!
Mary Wiggins

August 17, 2004 - Msg 22928: Hey! It worked! Thanks Floyd, that WAS a lot faster! All that I typed above was saved from yesterday, so it may be a little outdated.

I hope you all have a wonderful Mayberry Summer Day again today!
Mary Wiggins
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22929: Morning porch pals - Floyd: much faster here, many thanks for the hard work! Alyce: I have/had cervical ribs. as we know, the cervical (neck) spine should not have RIBS growing from them, but I do. They grow straight down and are attached to the first rib via fiberous bands. This is compressing the nerves, veins and muscles in the thoracic outlet area - where all the nerves and veins run to your arms. It was causing me to have lots of pain, constant muscle spasms and little to no blood flow to the arm/hands. In June I had the right c-rib and 1st rib removed. Looking at having the left side done in October? Spot: have a good trip friend, here's a mashed penny. It will bring you luck in your travels.

Prayers for all who need them - and there are so many who do!
~ Mrs. Wiley

August 17, 2004 - Msg 22930: REMOVED MESSAGE


August 17, 2004 - Msg 22931: Hey Mrs Wiley, maybe you got that same crick in your neck that Goober got when that lady bumped into him. Couldnt even lift his arms up to here!
haha
Good to be back on the ole porch again.
Anyone heard from the pipeman, goober, frankie flint etc?
Mary, it will start to get cold at glacier in Sept. ! Maybe you'll see all the leaves turn.
Beautiful God's country, that is for sure!
Good day to all!
MDC
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22932: REMOVED MESSAGE.
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22933: FLOYD, CAN YOU HELP US WITH THE INTERLOPER!
thanks,
MDC
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22934: REMOVED MESSAGE
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22935: REMOVED MESSAGE

August 17, 2004 - Msg 22936: REMOVED MESSAGE

August 17, 2004 - Msg 22937: What is going on here on the porch ...SPOT
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22938: SPOT..MDC .. just give the interloper the big freeze
mayberry deputy
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22939: Good idea MD... the big freeze.
Hey spot, what's for dinner tonight?
MDC
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22940: Hmmmmmm..... An interloper huh? Big Freeze it is! How is eveyone ELSE today? Good I hope. Thanx to Floyd for sprucin' up the the porch so we can move around faster. I like rokin' at a faster speed. Anyone up for a race?

Spot What ya got in the oven for supper tonight? I thought maybe we should throw some steaks on the grill and potatoes in the oven. Anyone up for a backyard B-B-Q?

Dixie Belle
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22941: That's supposed to be rockin'....sheesh

DB
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22942: freeze is on...YEA LETS BBQ STEAKS...corn too...SPOT...and hew will someone bring some slaw?
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22943: and thats HEY..above...sheesh...SPOT
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22944: I'll bring the slaw and the german potatoe salad.
I'm tryin to get used to the heat again.
Up north it was about 75 with lots of afternoon showers. Here it's about 103 today, but the humidity is up! The fresh trout was sure delicious. We pretty much ate all we caught.
Rockin burn marks into the porch,
MDC
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22945: Hey Folks,

I removed the messages above. Please let me know if they continue. I tried to block 'em as best I can. The good part is the user is on Verizon Internet Services so I can contact their ISP to get it stopped.
--Floyd
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22946: Thanks Floyd....yer a bird in this world...SPOT
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22947: Looks like we have had some troublemakers here on the porch. I'll get Dud Wash to come and whup on en. He learned a lot of that judo stuff in the army.
Hope your day is a good one folks. Been fine on my end.

Asa
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22948: Good afternoon, everyone. Floyd, whatever would we do without you? Thanks so much.

Mary Wiggins, I'll surely put you on the Mongolia journal list. I've sent four installments, so you'll be getting those, and then they will come one each day, more or less. I hope you enjoy them.

That trip has really changed my perspective on things. I went to my favorite little farmer's market awhile ago, and when I walked in the door, the realization struck me. There was all the beautiful produce laid out in pretty piles, all sorts of fruit and veggies, a wide variety of nutritious things. It was available, and I had money in my wallet to buy it. In Mongolia, not only is it not generally available, but the people have no money to buy it if it was. Friends, unless you have seen it, you just have no idea. I certainly didn't.

Well, I'm off to indulge in a large avocado and a vine-ripened tomato. Praise the Lord, for He is good. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22949: Hay Boo! Remember the episode were Timmy fell into the well & Lassie rescued him from the danger? Dis that dog belong to Andy or Goober?
much respect
hoo
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22950: I mean did that dog, not dis:)
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22951: Hey, Hoo! I remember that episode but I thought that Timmy AND Lassie fell into the well and it was Opie who rescued them. The dog belonged to Goober, or was it his cousin Gomer?

Love ya, Hoo!

Boo
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22952: PS-Hoo, Phyllis wanted me to ask you if you ever got that little problem cleared up (you know...the big H)?

Boo
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22953: Nope Boo, still bumpy but thats ok since It doesn't get seen by anybody except me these days wrist sistER!
ahhhhhh!
H00!
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22954: Wow, that was far more information that I wanted. I guess I shouldn't have asked.

Have you tried VICKS for that condition?

Boo
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22955: Boo, come on now-too tingly for the boys. Actually you can hardly notice unless you really look. I'll show you when you see my knee bump, you'll generally be in the same area. Now can we stop talking about this subject you brought up & get back to Andy & Goober-Gomer!!!
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22956: ...and Richie. Didn't he grow up to be a fine producer?
Hoo
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22957: Hey porchsters, we're having a BBQ tonight.
Spot is cookin up the grub. Plus we've got slaw, potato salad and all the fixins.
Ya all come over.
MDC
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22958: Romeena,
I absolutely loved your installments! You are a born writer! Years ago I went to Mexico City on a mission trip, and I was shocked to see women, surrounded by children, begging for pesos. I had no idea how poorly some people survive in this world. I imagine it is even more desolate in Mongolia. Keep the installments coming!

I think I will watch a little of the Olympics, y'all have a fine evening!
Mary Wiggins
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22959: Alright, Boo, who is Hoo? Boo Hoo. How clever. Asa, you crack me up with your comment about havin' Dud Wash wup on 'em. You are a bird in this world. Let's get together and "go down to the hospital and take the bolts off the wheelchairs."
Charlotte Tucker
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22960: That's what I was wonderin', Charlotte. Who's Hoo?
- Hazel

Barney: Those of us who chart the course of history, shall forever remain nameless.
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22961: Evenin', gentlefolk... It's been awhile since I've posted & I've missed you. I've been doin' a little of that sufferin' stuff for the past months but, as the Lord is gracious, I have my health & am in the rebuild mode now. I thought of you as I took a walk this eventide. I'm one of those "mackerel-snappin' Catholics" who will actually say a Rosary and spend a little "quality time" with the Lord now & again.
Moreover, I've made the move to quit my noxious nicotine habit & a walk & lots of water helps.

I saw something in my part of Texas I hadn't seen in the better part of three decades tonight as dusk fell... fireflies. It instantly transported me to a simpler, more peaceful time of cleaner country living, kick-the-can, fresh cantaloupe out of the garden and the hypnotic sing-song of crickets without the sounds of jets or traffic. I heard the hoot of an owl as it took silent flight for a night of hunting and the tree frogs chimed in as well. In my mind I saw the soft golden light of the porch with Andy strummin' chords quietly and the click of dominos and gentle laughter. I saw a couple of you rocking gently and the glider was full. Ah, simple pleasures and peace.

I was reminded at the same time that (no matter what your politics are) I will rest secure tonight because boys and girls who ought to be planning to go to the dance or take a ride in the country or sit at the diner with us are instead "saddling up", checking their loads and patrolling between me and alot of bad stuff out there. God bless and keep them safe.

Sorry for rambling but these are the things that occured to me in my walk. Thank y'all for being out there. Save me plate in the oven. The Boss & I have a few more things to chat about.

As always, blessings... Dragonfly
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22962: Dragonfly! Peace, friend! It's so good to hear from you. Please don't stay away so long. We need your gentle observations. Oh, and congratulations on kicking the nicotine monster out of your life. That's not easy.

Mary Wiggins, I'm glad you're getting some pleasure out of my scribblings. I, too, have been to Mexico, but I have never seen anything to equal what I saw in Mongolia. There is pitiful squalor in China as well, but there is a strong affluent element there as well. I never saw anything to indicate affluence in Mongolia. There may be some wealth there, but we never saw it.

Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena

August 17, 2004 - Msg 22963: I will be happy to drop that subject, Hoo. I am looking forward to seeing the knee bump, however. I agree, Opie is quite a producer.

Charlotte Tucker, Hoo is my best friend of 18 years (more like a brother) who I happen to confide in today that I have a secret life on the porch. He decided to visit and sit on the porch for awhile and he came up with the clever name of "Hoo" when he found out my name was Boo. He happened to have told me a very funny story today that I am sure he won't mind me sharing because nobody knows him....he said that his mom used to read alot of those crazy magazines like The National Enquirer and The Globe and once when he was a little boy, he read an article in one and was convinced and terrified that he had Herpes (which was impossible, of course). Anyway, he had to tell his mom and I guess she told her friend Phyllis who never stopped kidding him about it, so that's what those posts were about. Now, I'm sure we will drop that subject and move on to a nicer one. Hoo is a great and very funny guy that you would all like. I hope he drops in from time to time and if you are reading this, Hoo, I hope you don't mind me sharing your story????

Mary Wiggins, I went on a missions trip to Mexico City once, too, and Guadalajara. It was in 1982, I think. When did you go? I remember alot of poverty but some nicer neighborhoods, too. You're right, Ro has a real talent for writing but I don't think she believes us. I wish she would write a book, I'd buy it in a heartbeat.

Well, time to get the kids to bed.

Welcome back Dragonfly, I really missed you,

Boo
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22964: Morning Porch, just wanted to update you all on my grieving progress, it's not going too great so please keep me & my sister in your prayers, our kids too. My family is such a close-knit family, this sudden loss of my mother has devastated us. I have run the gammit of emotions again & again & have broke down crying in Wal-Mart even. Mom, Linda (my sister) and I own a business together & we spent 10-12 hours a day/6 days a week with her. I miss her so, & I feel so empty. My heart is broken so badly, I can't see it ever healing, so please help me keep the strength I need. I pray every night for the Lord to give it to me, but it's oh so hard. Instead of getting easier everyday, it seems to me it's getting harder. Just keep your thoughts & prayers coming, they help more than you know. I love you guys & if any of you still have your Moms with you, spend as much time with them as you can, they can be gone in an instant! :(
*Mavis
August 17, 2004 - Msg 22965: I feel terrible for you, Mavis. I know it won't help right now to say that you will heal, but you will. You will never forget, but someday your grief will turn to pleasant memories of your mother. You will still feel the loss, but at least you have the knowledge that you will see her again in Heaven. Try to find comfort in that, and try to remember the good times. You may even find memories that will make you laugh again.
-Sterling Holobyte

August 18, 2004 - Msg 22966: My thoughts are with you, Mavis. Sterling said it best, and I won't even add anything to what he said. Hang in there, friend.
- Hazel
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22967: Mavis, you and your family are in my prayers. May the Lord give you strength and comfort during this trying time in your life.
-Floyd
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22968: good morning and prayers for everyone. prayers to all folks that were affected by the storm,sadly it reminds us of not putting our treasures on earth, but i really feel sad especially the stories of widow elderly with no family. ed= i know what you mean about vegas being so hot. i made the mistake of going during august one year. like being inside a clothes dryer. just don't be like frosty the heatman and melt away, we need you here. a special prayer for boo's sister. now to a sad story, my friend tom from lincoln,ill. and i were set to attend the indiana mayberry event. he was so exited he called me about three times a day. saved all year to get dinner with quest stars, soveniers,etc. night before we were to leave he had to go to hospital and they did surgery. so he was and still is devastated. we're planning on setting up a booth at the sept railsplitters event in lincoln, illinois in sept. but we wanted to share the joy of the event with people from all over the us and canada. anyone wanting more details just a short post from you and i'll be glad to briefly give you the info. until next time, keep sitting on the porch and enjoy the moment. pipeman
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22969: My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family,Mavis. One day at a time..

*******PEACE*****
possum under a rock
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22970: *Mavis****prayers**** for you all.

Welcome to Boo's friend Hoo. Pull up a rocker and set a while.

Thank you Floyd for removing the interloper. The big freeze was starting to wear me out :).

pipeman I'm sorry to hear about your friend. ****prayers****

Keep rockin'

Dixie
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22971: Mavis, my prayers are with you and your family. What a wonderful treasure you had, that you were so close to your mother. It makes it more painful now, but those precious memories will become friends to you, and solace. Sterling said it best, and I hope to reassure you that someday you will begin to heal.

Pipeman, I won't be in Illinois when you and your friend set up that booth, but I certainly hope you have a great weekend there, and that your friend will be all recovered from his surgery.

Dragonfly, it is soo nice to hear from you! Do visit us again soon, your posts are so refreshing!

Welcome to Boo's friend Hoo!

The Lord has been merciful to me and my family today, and I just want to thank Him for His faithfulness!

I best be getting busy, y'all have a great day and here are some cinnamon rolls and coffee or milk to wash 'em down with!

Mary Wiggins
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22972: Dear Mavis, I can see the pain you are going through in your post. I felt much the same way when I lost my Mom, we were very very close. I promise you, it will get better. And please remember that the Lord will not place any burden upon you that you are unable to handle. Keep your faith in Him and know that we all love you and are lifting you and your family up in prayer.

Asa