August 18, 2004 - Msg 22973: mavis= sorry about your loss. i've lost both parents and grandparents long ago. the pain and missing them is always there but then you'll be doing something and a memory will pop in your head and you'll laugh at how much like them you are. mary wiggins= thanks for the kind thoughts. i'll try and get some time to talk to all of you soon. spot, asa, sterling, mdc, afd,homemaker and the rest. have a great day. pipeman
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22974: Mavis, My prayers are also with you! As you may know from my previous posts, my mom has alz, and it is soooo hard to watch her go down on a daily basis. I cry out to the Lord, and have run every gambit of emotion. When i went away last week,
every one of those 5 days i felt "guilty" for being away from her for so long. It is constant and ongoing, and yet, somehow we endure it and try to work and play and eat and sleep as anyone would. My mother, of course, "endures" it without knowing what is happening to her. So, tho my situation is different than yours in many ways, I cling to those words that sterling and others have said, that I will be re-united with her in heaven-- healthy and happy and HEALED! This porch has been a great daily respite for me, and I appreciate all you good folks have said and done so much. So keep coming back Mavis, and we'll do our best to comfort you.
hey to pipeman... good to see you again and to see that you are doing ok! I miss the western site!
Mary, floyd, Asa, Boo, CT, dixie, alyce, possum and all,
have a great mayberry day!
MDC
Andy:"Barn, dont forget... the big freeze!"
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22975: Boo? Boo? Where are you? I'm scared sitting up here on this strange porch with strangers.
Hoo:)
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22976: We're all friends here, Hoo. Pull up a chair and rock with us awhile, won't you? You want a sip of my Nectarine Crushİ? I just popped the top off it, and you can have the first swaller!
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22977: Welcome Hoo. No need to be afraid of us.
We're just plain folk who like to set a spell and jaw our time with each other, take a load off, pick at the ole guit-fiddle and tickle the ivories of the old upright, sip a little cider
and puff on a briar, just as that last bit of daylight dips behind the hills.
So stick around for a bit and get to know asa, AFD,pipeman, spot, salty dog, homemaker, mary w, auh20, mrs wi-lee, romeena, sara, alyce, goober, charlotte, briscoe, sterling, des, Mayberry dep, MPO, mavis, possum, ellen, dixie, jelsik, tom, floyd, will, angefan, new neighbor, whew! I think that's about it, but I'm sure there's a few I forgot! Prayers for all, our troops, our country and our world!
Mr Darlin's Cuz
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22978: Hazel! Jennie B.! Frankie! Rafe! I forgot ya, sorry!
MDC
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22979: "You always wanna talk about somethin' else just when I wanna talk about somethin' else!"
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22980: VAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRROOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMM.
Elizabeth Crowley
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22981: Mavis... only those who have been there know. I lost my Papa almost thirteen years ago and I miss him every single day. There's a huge "Papa-shaped" hole in my life no one can ever fill but him. He was my mentor, my friend, my hero. The gentlefolk on the porch are right, of course. The pain becomes less gut-wrenching, the tears less often. That doesn't mean we don't love those who have gone home before us any less but it is the Lord's way of allowing us to function on this side of the veil. Memories change from the crimson, wrenching, emotional violence of loss to a golden-hued softness and wistfulness of remembrance and certain gratefulness for having shared in a life well lived. The place where you are is not wrong or even unexpected. I should be more concerned if you were not going through this roller-coaster of emotions. To love greatly is ensure that you will feel great pain. You gotta' admit, though... it's worth it. While I feel the shadow of your pain (and remember my own) I am consoled knowing you on the Porch & knowing the woman who writes so sweetly has the courage to love greatly. People like you make us all a bit more than we can be on our own. That's part of the Lord's Plan... The Great Dance. Continue to pray for your dear Mother and I shall add her to my Morning Sacrifice as well. Be assured also, as Scripture assures us, "Those who sow in tears will reap in joy." AMDG and blessings, Dragonfly
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22982: Oh, Mavis dear. I, too, have been there. First my beloved husband in 1996, my precious mom in 1999, and my sweet daddy in 2003. It hurts. Oh, yes, it hurts! The others are right, though. You will get through it, because you must. The alternative is not acceptable, so you will get through it. Sometimes taking it "one day at a time" becomes "one breath at a time", but you will survive. We will continue to pray for you and the rest of your family, as I know you have prayed for us at times. Blessings upon you, sweet friend. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22983: a big hello to HOO.. hope you enjoy your visits to the porch MAVIS ... may god bless you and your family and help you through your loss.Good to see PIPEMAN back on the porch .
mayberry deputy
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22984: I see Elizabeth crowley kicked up some dust again!
MD, get your ticket book from out under your hat!
Hope all are doing OK. Gotta go work the late shift tonight, kinda like the nurses we got on the porch. Have a good evenin all.
MDC
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22985: Prayers for you and your family, Mavis....so sorry. The grieving process is so hard but it is the pathway to healing, so crying in Wal Mart is completely expected and healthy.

Hoo, sorry, I was in Corpus all day. Sean had his appointment with the counselor and I had some errands to run after I took the kids to Chick-fil-a (or as Erin calls it: Chick-A-Lay). I should have dropped her at your house, she was so difficult today! I went to that new Pet Co store because somebody told me it was less expensive than Petsmart, no way! Glad you came back to the porch, you should keep coming. You can see what sweet people come here. How's Jorge?

Boo
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22986: MDC.. Ive got a new citation pad and a sharp pencil ,Im ready to start writting some tickets
MD
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22987: With the way I've been driving lately - I deserve a citation. Been super busy since school started again - my real job! Wish Fun Girl would join us again now and then - we could swap hearing impaired stories. I have been trying to educate teachers about accomodations for my students. What a job! And I am ordering equipment out the wazoo - gave my boss orders for over $8000 yesterday - she wasn't too happy:(

My dear Mavis - I am so sorry for you. You were one of my first friends on the porch - I wish I could give you a real hug but a cyber one will have to work (((Mavis))).

Take care everyone - I'll chat when I'm not on the open road (between two of my schools it is a 40 mile jaunt!)

homemaker
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22988: Boo - my son calls shishkabobs - pork a ma bobs. . .go figure!

hm
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22989: Hey to you great folks on the porch. I luv hearin your wonderful conversations each night, even though I don't chime in much. Does anyone know if Miss Crump's Blackboard is broken, or am I just a no-account? Ernest T.
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22990: Homemaker, whats a wazoo?
Ernest T. Miss Crumps is working. I know Allan changed servers so you may have to access it different from what your used to.
Elizabeth Crowley run me off the road onto the sidewalk where Arnold Winkler about plowed into me on his bike. What on earth has happened to our fair city? Lawlessness,littering, jaywalking all over the place. Mayberry is turning into a sin city. WELCOME TO MAYBERRY, GATEWAY TO DANGER

Asa
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22991: Asa, I found it--Thank You. Ernest T. (But no coffee, tea, or punch.)
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22992: Ernest T. You need to go to Mayberry.com and then to Miss Crump's (the link says "Bulletin Board"). Or you can got to TAGSRWC.com and click the Bulletin Board link.

--Allan
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22993: Thank you all my dear friends! Ya'll are the greatest bunch of people & Ro you were the first person I thought of on here when I lost Mom, I remember being here on this porch rocking with you & praying for you when you lost both your Mom & Dad. Knowing you made it through & still have such a wonderful outlook on life, gives me lots of hope. Same goes for you Dragonfly All of you that I know lost someone so dear to them & can still be so loving & say such beautiful things are an inspiration to me! Thank each & everyone of you for your prayers & for helping me to know, what I am feeling right now is normal. I have found a wonderful grief recovery message board online & the Mountain Region Donor Services, who took care of Mom have been amazing as well, they have helped me so much.
Knowing Mom can help someone like little Laci warms my heart & reminds me what a wonderful caring person my mother was. I just miss her so much it hurts!! It has now been 21 days since I heard her say "I love you, see you in the morning!" None of us ever part from each other (whether in person or by phone) without telling each other we love them. I just want to hear her say it again, I tell her every night still when I say my prayers & I listen ever so closely to hear her voice but it doesn't come.
Thanks again you all (((((((((((porchsters)))))))))
*Mavis
August 18, 2004 - Msg 22994: Almost forgot, if any of you all would like to see her obit. we had her picture included, go to Mary "Jerri" Whittaker Montona
Also, our Pet Shop web address (that I haven't changed yet) is The Pet Stop
Thanks
*Mavis
August 19, 2004 - Msg 22995: good morning porchsters= welcome ernest t. floyd our penny pinching barney lincoln, illinois chapter is doing the first local railsplitter show in lincoln sept 18 and 19. we attract people from all over us and canada. any pamplets, suggestions etc would be greatly appreciated. we've contacted the local clubs several times and no replys. it's so great to see asa, mayberry deputy, mavis, homemaker, mdc, elizebath crowly around. breakfast is ready. krispy cream donuts, eggs, pancakes, bacon, sausage, hash browns, ham, cottage cheese, melons, homemade biscuts, coffee, tea, o.j. served until noon. pipeman
August 19, 2004 - Msg 22996: Morning! How is evryone? *Mavis how are you today? When you start feeling blue just do what I do. Sing the song One Day at a Time to yourself. It always makes me feel better :).

Hello to everyone settin' and a rockin'. Watch your foot I'm about to rock forward.

I start school Monday..... all afternoon and night classes this time......yech!

Here's a hug from me to all of you today (*(*(*(*(*(**)*)*)*)*)*)
August 19, 2004 - Msg 22997: I'll be hogwashed... that was me up there...

Dixie
August 19, 2004 - Msg 22998: Good morning. Mavis, I read about your mom and saw her lovely picture. Thank you for sharing that with us. I also looked at your pet stop site, very nice. I saw the picture of you and your sister, too. It must be a blessing that the two of you are so close to help each other at this time. Prayers continue for you. Your last post was so touching, we just hurt for you. I know when our loved ones go to heaven we long to just hear another word or 'I love you' from them and it must be so hard. I am reading a book right now by a woman named Betty Freeman and its called Real Magnolias. It is real life stories of southern Christian women and some of their griefs and trials. One woman named Tina lost her husband with a brain tumor while her little boys were still young (his name was Wendell). I wanted to share a part of her story with you. Here is part of the story:
"Becky, Wyndell's death was often pure torture. There's nothing pretty or good about dying. But his actual death, the moment he left was the most beautiful thing I have ever experienced. Even more than the birth of my babies.
"His body had been paralyzed for weeks, his hands drawn up close to his chin, his eyes shut. No response to us whatsoever. But as my father and mother and I gathered around him, knowing he would be leaving us soon, Wyndell suddenly sat straight up in bed, opened his crystal blue eyes toward the ceiling--oh, Becky he had the most beautiful eyes-lifted both arms upward, then laid back in mine and daddy's arms and died. It was obvious that someone came to take Wyndell home."
Chills of holy awe went up my back.
"And then," Tina said, "after he died, a few weeks later Wyndell visited us."
"What?!"
"It happened in a dream, the most vivid I have ever had. So real, that to this day I don't beleive it was just a dream. I believe it was a gift from God. When I woke up from this dream, in which my husband had held me in his arms and told me everything would be okay, I reached over to pat my Logan, who was sleeping nearby. He stirred and asked me, 'Did you see Daddy, Mom? He was here tonight. Sitting right here, in white clothes, on this bed.'
"I thought that was a little weird," Tina continued her tale as I listened intently. "I mean that we'd both had such a vivid dream of Wyndell, but the next morning when I went to wake Seth he could hardly wait to tell me the news.
"Mom, he said before I said a word, 'I know this sounds strange but Daddy came to me last night. We went scuba diving and it was so real! Remember how he always promised to take me? Oh, man, it was too cool. I could feel the water and the waves and see the fish. I saw sharks, but Daddy said not to worry about them. It was so real.'"
"Wow," I said, shaking my head in the silence as I pondered what's beyond the curtain of death. And if, as Catherine Marshall believed, God sometimes allows those whom we loved, who have gone to be with Him, to play some part in comforting us here on earth.
Tina yawned the yawn of a contented woman.
"Tired?" I asked.
"Uh-huh," she answered sleepily.
"Sweet dreams," I said without thinking.
Tina closed her eyes, smiled, and replied, "Yes, they were."
We fell asleep in God's hovering presence. Outside the dewdrops fell softly in a silent benediciton of blessing."

Well, better go do some school work with my son. I am researching a couple of different options for tutoring for his dyslexia. I can go the cheapest way, which may not be the best, or I can got the expensive way (400.00 per month) which will probably be more beneficial. That's alot of money, though, for us and I don't know if insurance will cover any of it. Would you all say a prayer that God would guide us in our decision because Sean is already so far behind. My prayer is for direction and that insurance would pay if we feel led in the direction of the more expensive treatment. Are any of you teachers familiar with NILD (National Inst-tute for Learning Disabilities)? A class through Scottish Rite is also available but I don't know how good it is? Thanks...

Boo
August 19, 2004 - Msg 22999: Hey folks ,I dont know how many porh sitters are going to Mayberry days in ept. ,but I saw an article in todays paper that there is a company called Squad Car Tours that gives tours of Mt. Airy in a 62 and 64 Galaxy squad car replicas ,sounds like a graet time to be had .SPOT,PIPEMAN ,ASA,MDC,ROMEENA,DIXIE,MAVIS,
BOO,HM,CT and all other porch sitters everyone have a great day
Mayberry Deputy
August 19, 2004 - Msg 23000: what lousy spelling ,thats porch sitters and Mayberry Days in Sept.
MD
August 19, 2004 - Msg 23001: Glad you cleared that up MD, I thought you were calling us inept. LOL
Mavis, continued prayers for you dear. Hang tough.
I have really been enjoying those installments Romeena. You are very talented. Was Sugarplum happy to be reunited with you?
Dixie, do good in School and show the teacher you got some smarts.

Asa
August 19, 2004 - Msg 23002: Great story Boo, thank you. makes my situation better too. Asa, we gotta keep MD supplied with citation books!
Mavis, glad we could help. As Gomer said to Mr Tucker, "Shucks, werent nothin', we was happy to do it. Deemed it a real honor."
By the way, think of that "morning" as the "big morning when we all meet on the other shore."
Pipebro- that's a good song, I sing it a lot too,
both at prayer meeting and by myself. Thanks for the breakfast. Having belgium waffles for lunch.
FUNgirl, dragonfly- sorry , I also missed you you on my earlier list for Hoo.
My such a nice, full porch today!
MDc
August 19, 2004 - Msg 23003: Oops, that's MDC
August 19, 2004 - Msg 23004: Homemaker, glad you didnt get "filtered" out this year!
MDC
August 19, 2004 - Msg 23005: Asa, I agree. I can't wait for Ro's next installment and have not received one today!! I keep looking.....

Hope ya'll have a great evening. Tell somebody you love them!

Boo
August 19, 2004 - Msg 23006: Boo what a wonderful story! I'll have to go find that book, sounds like it will help me. My poor child (I say child, he's 16 & alot bigger than me, but he's still my baby) finally broke down & let it out today, first time he has cried, I mean REALLY cried since the beginning of all this. My heart was just breaking for him. He has been at the shop working with us the past few days, & he was just missing Nannie so badly, he finally sat down in her chair in the kitchen at our shop & just sobbed. Of course, Linda & I sobbed right along with him. I am on the verge of tears each moment of the day anyway & being in that shop without her has been oh so hard. Jacob told me "Mom, I feel better since I cried, but I just miss Nannie so much & she should be here with us. Sitting in her chair made me feel closer to her, & I felt like she was right there telling me it will be ok." Losing her has been such a shock to us all, she was healthy & such a happy warm giving person. Please keep us all in your prayers. On a GREAT note, so far 3 people are living & hopefully going to have normal lives because of my mother. Both kidneys went to NC & were transplanted into 2 different people. And her liver was transplanted into someone in Rochester, NY!! I just can't wait for the first letter from one of the recipients!!
Better hit the sack & try to sleep, pray for me that I don't wake up crying in the middle of the night & end up rocking on my front porch in the wee hours of the morn. I am so tired & just can't sleep longer than about 2 or 3 hours a night.
I love you all dearly!
*Mavis
August 19, 2004 - Msg 23007: Oh, I meant to tell you all that was a very recent picture of Mom, about a year old or so. Wasn't she such a beautiful lady?
*Mavis
August 19, 2004 - Msg 23008: Mavis... the term lovely comes to mind. She had a face that spoke of a life well lived yet you can see the girl she was. What a gift and a grace. Remember always your dear mother not only was but IS. Maybe she & my Papa are comparing potato salad recipes. Papa was my "42" partner. Maybe she'll fill in on this old Texas domino game until I get there. Likely, I'll be relegated to bringing them lemonade until the set is done... Love you, sweetie... Dragonfly
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23009: BooBerries-Hello!
HooDunIt!
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23010: Mornin' Y'all! Mavis,your mother was a very nice looking lady-she reminds me alot of my mom's sister. I hope the hurt isn't so intense today -for you,Jacob,and the whole family.My mom had a mild heart attack the same day your mom took ill,and the thought of losing her,how much the grandkids would miss her,etc.-that was SO much to handle that I can't imagine what you go through when it actually happens.My prayers continue for you.
I have been babysitting Laci since Wed. when her mama found out she has pneumonia! We can NOT afford for Laci to get sick now with her surgery only a week away,so I took time from work and I am a 24 hour a day hands on Grandmama until Sat. when the antibiotics should kick in and Laci can go back to Mama.I'm glad I have this time with her-won't be able to see her for a few days during & following surgery.Y'all please continue to hold Laci in your prayers if you would.She's got a rough patch ahead,but I know she'll be okay.
Well,let me go check on my little sleeping dollbaby-y'all take care! Love to all!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23011: zzmnx nbvbp ( Laci is awake and says good morning,Mayberry!)
6vn
possum again

August 20, 2004 - Msg 23012: Hello, Hoo! Hope you're having a decent day today. I'll just be doing laundry and helping Sean with his work, trying to potty train Erin, cleaning the house...yada, yada, yada, you know the old routine. I thought I had Erin just about trained and I found her standing on a blanket in the living room yesterday pooping in her Disney underwear. "Why??" I ask her and her response is always the same, "I sorry. I promise.". Oh well, one of these days she'll get it.

Mavis, I don't think you will have any trouble finding the book at your local christian bookstore or on Amazon but if for some reason you can't, let me know and I will mail you my copy. I'm almost finished with it. I read another wonderful story last night that I know would help you. Prayers for you that you will get some sleep.

Contiued prayers for Laci and her surgery.

Bye!
Boo
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23013: Ro, I wanted to tell you that you might want to get a copy of the book Mavis is talking about, too (Steel Magnolias, by Becky Freeman). I read a neat story in it last night about when the author visited a friend in Fredricksburg. She talks about shopping and the places she goes to eat (she even mentions The Peach Tree) and the friend she is staying with is a well known citizen of the town. I am wondering if Heather or Rob might know her. Her name is Suzanne Humphreys. She and her husband have a ranch several miles outside of town and she is an author and speaker.

Boo
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23014: good morning boo and possum, looks like we're the only ones a stirring. howdy to every porchster. raing here and suppose to be 70 for a high. whodunnit itidon't know. zsfewqnhuyrmkjgfder, my thoughts are with each of you. pipeman turnout to the large brakfast yesterday was puny, i had to talk to myself.
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23015: Mavis,
I stopped at your pet store link and I wondered, are you the woman in black? I will continue praying for you and your family, hang in there sweetie.

I had a tough time of consoling yesterday. My 9 year old niece was crying yesterday. Her mother died almost 6 years ago, and she told me she wants a mother, and that all her friends have one, and it's just not fair. What could I say? It really isn't fair. I had to laugh at my 6 year old, though. He offered for her and her sister, and younger brother, and their father to come and live with us! Seems like a logical solution, she doesn't have a mom...he does...why not share?! My brother has dated a few women in the last couple years, but it always seems like the women he meets aren't looking for a normal, stable, hardworking, honest man! It can be so heart-wrenching. And where do these nitwit women come from anyway? Excuse me for getting a little angry about it, but they all say one thing, when it comes to meeting a man, but if they meet someone who is what they say they are looking for, then all of a sudden they realize they haven't gotten over their last love, or they realize they aren't ready for a relationship, or some other mumbo jumbo! And my brother is an old softie. I hated watching him meet women and date when he was a teenager and in his twenties. He would become so smitten, and then the girl would just reject him. To have to watch that all again with him in his 40's, pushing 50, ahhh, I just wish he would meet a real nice woman some day. (Any body know any single women in Michigan! LOL)

It's funny because the day before my niece and I had this talk, I was thinking about my mother who has been gone for 7 years now, and it made me blue. Sometimes I don't think I had the chance to really mourn my mother's loss, because I had a child 2 months before she died, and then the following year we lost my sister-in-law, and I found myself taking care of her premature infant, as well as her daughter who was 3 at the time. (And I was 41 already!) Somehow, we do get through, though.

Well, I guess that's enough of my ramblings, it's making me teary eyed just writing about it, so I think I will commence to rocking, and then eat some of those Krispy Kremes left over from yesterday! (Thanks Pipeman!)

Love and prayers to all,
Mary Wiggins

P.S. Romeena, keep those updates coming, they are wonderful! (And how about your reunion with Sugarplum?)
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23016: Bless your heart, Mavis. You're in my prayers.
I heard Cheryl Pruitt Salem (a former Miss America) say something that really touched my heart several months ago, but I think it can apply here. She and her husband lost their young daughter several years ago to illness (cancer, I think), and she kept asking God why didn't He heal her? The Lord spoke to her and said your daughter is no longer in your past, but in your future. She is healed and whole in heaven and your future together awaits. It really blessed my heart to hear that.
I lost my grandfather 12 yrs ago today. He was buried on my 23rd birthday. I still get teary eyed about it every once in a while. Last year on this date, I just started crying thinking of him and my sweet daughter, not quite 3 at the time, gives me a hug and says I love you Mommy. I just felt like my grandfather was reaching down from heaven, through her arms, and giving me a hug.
May God encompass you in His embrace today, Mavis, through the prayers and hugs of those around you, and us here on the porch as well.

(((((HUGS)))))
AFD!
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23017: WOW, SOME REALLY BEAUTIFUL PROSE BEING WRITTEN ON THE PORCH! Here's an amazing one for you,
My uncle died 10 years ago this month as he was jogging thru a park. He was a big Model Railroad buff. I asked the Lord for a sign that he was in Heaven with Him, and the very next day when I returned to the spot where he died, there was a
tiny train engine sitting on the ground! And everyone I talked to said they did not put it there! The Lord is amazing!
Mary W - You may want to tell your brother about a dating service called "Equally Yoked."
It is Christian based and screened well and all are there for aiming at a relationship toward marriage. I have heard some very good things about it.
Prayers continue for all you super-porchsters!
Have a great weekend.
Mr Darlin's Cuz
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23018: Boo-Don't be so hard on Erin, justthe other day I was watching a great movie on TV & didn't feel like getting up to go number two...well lets just say my friends left pretty quick. Sometimes you just don't feel like getting up & saying "I sorry...I promise" is much easier.
Hoo Baby Hoo!
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23019: Boo & anyone that cares...I heard a quote yesterday that I really liked. "The real test of your character is what it takes to stop you". I like that & gained some strength from it. Peace out porch people!
HOOru?
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23020: HOOrah, that was gross! The mental picture was terrible. I'm not being too hard on Erin. Today she went on the pot all by herself (and I suggest you do the same). I found a key to the training for her is to not put anything on her (no underwear or pull-ups) and she does great. Of course, that causes a problem when we have to dress her to go somewhere. She'll get it together soon.

What a great story, MDC. You need to submit that to the publishers that do the Chicken Soup books.

Sorry about your brother, Mary Wiggins. It must be very hard trying to find a good person to settle down with who would be a good mother to his kids.

I have been killing myself with laundry and housework! My sister says I should hire someone to do my laundry each week but I don't like the thought of anyone I know washing my underwear (weird hangup, I know). I have cleaned up red playdough twice today!

Break time is over,
Boo
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23021: Boo- actually, i submitted it to Guideposts for their "His Mysterious Ways" section, but they said it could have been a person who put the engine there, and so it was not "mysterious" enuf.
So that sort of ended my "submissions."
But i know it happened and that's what really counts!
What's cookin for supper tonight?
White Castle burgers? (the only burger where the
pickle slice is bigger than the meat patty!) teehee
Mr Darlin's, fillin' in for Spot but not doin' a very good job, Cuz
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23022: Baaaaaarrrneeeeeeeeey!!

August 20, 2004 - Msg 23023: Wow, I thought it was WAY mysterious, MDC!

Boo
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23024: hey all racing porch sitters ,cup boys are at Michigan this weekend ,back to some real racing and just think next week its framming and bamming at Bristol ..YEESS
MAYBERRY DEPUTY
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23025: water wet. fire hot.
Hoo
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23026: I don't get it, Hoo. What are you talking about? Bruce and I went out tonight and went to that country peddler thing (Bruce likes to go), then we went out to eat at Jalisco's. I feel the heartburn already.....anyway, the dinner conversation was very depressing. Right after we placed our order, Bruce said, "There is something I wanted to tell you. I am buying more life insurance next month for myself, you and the kids". He also proceeded to tell me that in the event he should die, don't spend alot of money on a funeral and he told me who he wanted to speak at his funeral. What a fun date my husband is! Kind of gave me the creeps. You know how you always hear those stories of people who have premonitions of their death. I told him he couldn't die yet, at least not until the new insurance kicks in.....just kidding.

Well, guess I'll go take some Maalox and retire for the night (burp)!

Boo


August 20, 2004 - Msg 23027: Pipeman, I realized that I have not said anything to you in days. I'm really sorry, didn't mean to neglect you. I'm glad you are feeling well enough to sit on the porch with us!

Boo
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23028: Boo, you crack me up!:)

Asa
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23029: Hey to the porch. Saw that homemaker mentioned me above in her post. (it's me...fungirl) Here I am. All here is going well. School started here on Wednesday. Kyle has just started helping a friend of fungi. He has a mowing business and Kyle is his assistant. He is a hard worker and enjoys having some spending money. Wants to ask a girl from school to go out to eat and to a movie. She said she likes someone else, but she did invite him to her birthday party tommorrow. He was thrilled. Haven't seen a smile like that on his face in ages.

homemaker, why don't you pack up and move here. We could use someone like you around here. Our district is notorious for haveing a lousy special services department. A friend from the dislexic inst$#itute in Indpls. has even mentioned that they have a couple of families who have trouble here.

I am working in a electronics assembly warehouse. We make parts for switchboards, microwaves, planes and all kinds of stuff. I hope to be starting school in October. Gonna train to become a unit secretary at a hospital. Give me the scoop Ro. Do you have any tales of unit secretaries? I am sure it's like any other job. There are competent people and some not so much so.

Our new computer is wonderful. We even got a flat monitor. Not just the screen is flat, but it is ...Oh, I don't know what you call it, but it isn't big and bulky like a TV. It is wonderful and takes up alot less room.

Gonna make it a point to pop in daily. Have we heard from Tom lately? How about my good buddy BDJ? I could use a jug of mulberry squeezins.

Think about you all often. Gonna come and visit more often. Yep, gonna go to town and get a bottle of pop and sit a spell on the porch.
Hugs to all

fun girl
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23030: Good evening, all. Mavis, I understand so well that wish of yours, to hear your mom's voice again. In the weeks and months following my husband's death, I listened, and prayed, and listened some more, but I just couldn't hear his voice. Then one bright morning, I heard it. Perhaps it would be more accurate to say, I finally recognized it. I heard the breeze rustling through a tree as I passed beneath it, and then I heard, really heard, the song of the mockingbird who was perched on the corner of the parking garage outside the hospital where I work. The closer I got to the building, the louder and more intricate his song became, and I suddenly realized that the concert was meant just for me. Thank you, Dale.
Looking at your mom's picture on the obit website, I can well imagine that you will hear her voice in someone's laughter, because joy just twinkles in her eyes, and I'm sure she was a person who loved to laugh. Listen for it, Mavis. You'll eventually hear it, when your eyes and ears are no longer so clogged by fresh grief.

Boo, that's a beautiful story, and I think I'll just have to get that book. I'm at an age now where I have not only my own losses and griefs, but many of my contemporaries are enduring the same thing. That book sounds like one that should make the rounds in a circle of friends.

MDC, I'm a longtime reader and supporter of Guideposts, but I think they missed the boat when they didn't accept your story. Of course the little train was put there by some person or persons unknown. No one would suggest that God just zapped it into place, though I'm sure He could if he chose to do so. The point is, it was there, right there where you would see it, and it ministered to your heart. Whether a child dropped it or however it got there is immaterial. I firmly believe that God uses natural means to accomplish His supernatural purposes. So you just go right on enjoying the peace that the miraculous little train brought you. It's what God meant for you, I'm sure of it. And shame on Guideposts.

fun girl, I think it's great that you're going to be a unit secretary. And yes, I could share some tales, but space doesn't permit. There are good and bad, and I can truthfully say, a good secretary (emphasis on "good") is at least as valuable as a nurse on a busy unit, if not more so. They hold the reins, finger on the pulse so to speak, of a unit. They can make it or break it. And no, we haven't heard from Tom in quite a while. I'm seriously worried about our dear resident poet. Seems to me that BDJ was through here not long ago, but he doesn't come by very often any more.

Boo, my daughter trained my 3yr old grandson recently, by giving him a soap-bubble party in the yard every time he performed on the potty. He's doing very well now.

To those who asked, my reunion with the Plum was joyous. I thought she'd wiggle out of her little fur coat, and I had to restrain myself from squeezing her too hard! I wouldn't give up a minute of that trip, but I'm very glad to be back with my sweet little Sugarplum.

This grows too long. Sorry, friends. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena


August 20, 2004 - Msg 23031: Mary Wiggins the lady in black with the white dog (Duffy) would be my sister Linda. I am the one in the blue (having a bad hair day) I don't know what the deal is with the site, the About Us link should have stories about all of us, instead I see somehow, I managed to get the Grooming 3 page there again & since all my stuff for working on that site is at work & I can't access any of it guess it has to stay that way a day or two. Today was another one of those cry at the drop of a hat days & I am so ready to be over those, but something tells me its just starting. We were at the shop until after 8pm tonight trying to get things done that Mom usually did during the day, we have to groom first then go take care of putting away orders, marking prices & all that stuff when we finish grooming. Of course, with neither of us really wanting to be there without Mom, it makes it even harder. We have had a steady stream of her customers coming in to see her new baby birds she was supposed to be bringing back from FL with her & of course they didn't know she was gone, so it has been very hard having to tell people that again & again, but we are doing it. It's especially hard when the customer breaks down crying. We have had a few that knew she passed away that haven't been able to make themselves come in the shop, that did tell us they figured, if me & Linda could come in there they could certainly make themselves come in. Most all of our customers know it is a family business & that is why they keep coming back, one told us it breaks her heart to see us there without her & holding up so well. I didn't tell her we only do that during the day, at night I am not holding it all together so well.
Please keep the prayers coming that I will continue to find the strength I need to get through this & to help my sister get through this as well. All we have now is each other & our kids & they are all taking it really hard.
Mayberry Deputy I'll trade places with you next week for Bristol if you like, I don't have tickets of course & I HATE being in town for Race Week. WAY too many people for my liking running the streets. I love living in Bristol, but don't care for race week at all (unless I have tickets of course!) Prayers & ((((hugs)))) to all of you, I'm going to try to get some sleep.
*Mavis
August 20, 2004 - Msg 23032: Boy, really running off at the mouth tonight aren't I?
Wanted to post something that we had up during Mom's wake & that is posted next to her picture in the shop now. Enjoy it my friends.


TO REMEMBER ME
The day will come when my body will lie upon a white sheet neatly tucked under four corners of a mattress, located in a hospital busily occupied with the living and the dying. At a certain moment a doctor will determine that my brain has ceased to function and that, for all intents and purposes, my life has stopped.
When that happens, do not attempt to instill artificial life into my body by the use of a machine. And don't call this my deathbed. Let it be called the Bed of Life, and let my body be taken from it to help others lead fuller lives.

Give my sight to the man who has never seen a sunrise, a baby's face or love in the eyes of woman.
Give my heart to a person whose own heart has caused nothing but endless pain.
Give my blood to the teen-ager who has pulled from the wreckage of his car, so that he might live to see his grandchildren play.
Give my kidneys to one who depends on a machine to exist from week to week.
Take my bones, every muscle, every fiber and nerve in my body and find a way to make a crippled child walk.
Explore every corner of my brain. Take my cells, if necessary, and let them grow so that, someday, a speechless boy will shout at the crack of a bat and a deaf girl will hear the sound of a rain against her window.
Burn what is left of me and scatter the ashes to the winds to help the flowers grow.
If you must bury something, let it be my faults, my weaknesses and all prejudice against my fellow man.
Give my sins to the devil.
Give my soul to God.

If, by chance, you wish to remember me, do it with a kind deed or word to someone who needs you.

If you do all I have asked, I will live forever.

*Mavis


August 20, 2004 - Msg 23033: Those are nice sentiments, Mavis, and thanks for posting it. I think it also helps us to remember that we were born from ashes and we will return to ashes, but our spirits will live forever.

Romeena, I am glad you are back with us and your little Sugarplum!

Friends, I have a question I wonder if you can help me with. A fellow Ebayer and artist wrote me and requested info on how I made something that I am currently selling on Ebay. Now, at first I intended to reply and tell them exactly how I did it - being someone who will always try to help my fellow man when I can - then after thinking about it, and knowing that they have sold similar items, I began to question whether they really wanted to know this info for a class(what they told me), or whether they intended to steal my idea(which makes the shipping for this item much cheaper, and therefore easier to sell)and corner the market on Ebay using my technique, being that they are more experienced on Ebay than I.
Sorry for being so cryptic here, I don't mean to. I just don't want to hurt anyone if their intentions are really what they say and they happen to see this. It just gives me pause and made me think about the people who unfortunately do take advantage of others on there for profit, and I don't know if I should give them my secrets or not say anything, or if it would matter at all either way. What do you think? Or do I even need to ask? Sometimes I think I already know what I SHOULD do: be nice and tell them, but I still have doubts, thanks to my over-cautious imagination. :)
Thanks for any suggestions!
-Sterling Holobyte

August 21, 2004 - Msg 23034: Sterling, you very kindly shared with me a while back, telling me where I could find books that illustrated the art of rock painting, and I appreciated it. However, you were simply directing me to published works, available to anyone. You were not giving me any secrets or ideas original with you. Without knowing all of the circumstances, my first impulse is that it's a bit presumptuous of that person to ask you to share an idea you developed yourself, in order to increase their own profits, when they are, in effect, competing with you on eBay. I rather imagine eBay would have an opinion about it, too.

Mavis, I enjoyed browsing your website. You look exactly like I imagined you would, and I do so wish your end of the porch was close to mine, because I'd really like to put my little Plum in your hands to get all "prettied up." There are shops here that do a good job, but she's terrified to go through the door. There has to be a reason for that, because she's very friendly and sociable. Naturally, they're off the list. There's another one where I know she was treated kindly, because she enters gladly, but she's a mess when I pick her up and literally stinks of cigarette smoke, so that's out, too. So, I do her myself. I do a fair job, and she's clean and smells sweet, but I just know you'd make her a regular beauty queen. Oh, well. Prayers for you and Linda, darlin', and for little Laci as well.

Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
August 21, 2004 - Msg 23035: Good to see you on the porch, Ro. I have been thinking of ways to reward Erin when she uses the potty, maybe I'll try the bubbles. I think Dr. Phil suggested something like that on his show.

Mavis, that poem you posted is in the book I have been telling you about. You really need to look for it, it is full of encouragement.

Sterling, Hi! How is your little girl doing these days? Concerning the ebay thing, if you have a funny feeling about it maybe you shouldn't give them the instruction. I don't think I would--just my opinion. Its morally ok to protect yourself.

Better go take care of Erin.

Hang in there, Mavis.....prayers continue.

Boo
August 21, 2004 - Msg 23036: Morning Porch!

Mavis, it is so wonderful that your mother's life is being shared with so many. I am sure that in the days to come that will bring you so much joy. It sounds like your mother is doing just what your "To Remember Me" post above speaks about. I checked your site again, and I see you are the woman in the blue shirt. You and your sister resemble your mother. In my family, I look like nobody else in it! I often wondered about that! I am glad some of the customers are coming into your shop and paying their respects. I know it must be tremendously hard to tell them the news of your mother's passing. When my mother went on to be with the Lord, one person who was particularly struck was her hairdresser. He did her hair, on a weekly basis for 35 years! He was fresh out of beauty school when she became his customer, and they had weekly talks of children, spouses, jobs, joys and sorrows for all of those 35 years. It was people like him who came to her funeral that meant a lot to me. He probably knew her as well as her immediate family, but somehow isn't included in the "inner circle". I am sure his pain was difficult to deal with and I will always remember him as a dear friend of my mother.

Sterling, I whole-heartedly agree with Romeena. You should not share a thing with this person! My husband is an artist, too, and we have seen his work stolen a number of times. One local television show even used one of his paintings in their opening credits and never said a word to us about being allowed to use it! We never pursued them for that, but I still remember how astonished I was when I saw one of his paintings on their show! No credit given or anything! He has also had his work published in calendars and ironically enough, I was walking through one of my children's schools one day, and I saw a pencil drawing in a display case that was clearly traced from a painting he had in a calendar! I spoke to the student, to encourage their talent, but they seemed so frightened that they were in trouble I probably would have been better off to not say a word! Bottom line however, people will and DO steal other's ideas.

Fun Girl, I am so glad you are going to visit us more often, we have sorely missed you! I think I will join you in that bottle of pop!

Here's wishing one and all a wonderful Mayberry style Saturday!

Mary Wiggins
August 21, 2004 - Msg 23037: REMOVED
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August 21, 2004 - Msg 23043: INTERLOPER ALERT .msgs.23037-23042 someone call Floyd
mayberry deputy
August 21, 2004 - Msg 23044: BIG FREEZE!
August 21, 2004 - Msg 23045: Afternnon porch pals. Looks like we need some clorox, I don't think sweeping will do it. I just don't understand some folks.
Hope your weekend is going well. Sunny and not to hot on my porch. A lovely time of the year this is.
Good to see you posting Mavis. You come visit us often and we will help you get through this.
Anyone been watching the Olympics? Some pretty good stuff going on there.
Talk to you all later

Asa
August 21, 2004 - Msg 23046: Well Porch Friends I have returned from my trip to Tybee Island to a sad porch...hope yall have eat well...gona read the arcives worth reading......SPOT
August 21, 2004 - Msg 23047: thats "Archives".above..SPOT the"big freeze " dog of your porch
August 21, 2004 - Msg 23048: BIG FREEZE!

Boo
August 21, 2004 - Msg 23049: Boy, someone has a potty mouth!


I'd like to thank you porchsters for your input on my ebay question. Although I must say I thought I would get a different reaction. I thought for sure you would tell me to share and try not to be so greedy. ;)
Really though, that's how I feel about it sometimes. I mean, it's not like I'M intending to corner the market on the idea(which is really just a simple idea, nothing special, and they just wanted tips from me). They already know what it's made of and how the basic shape is made, so I don't know how anyone couldn't figure the rest out if they tried.
As you can see, I am still in decision mode where this is concerned.:)
I guess it would be easier to just not say anything if everytime I went to MY Ebay page there wasn't a "1" under the QUESTIONS column, still unanswered.
Oh well. If anyone has any more to say on the matter, I will be glad to listen to it, and thanks again for the help thus far.

Boo, you asked about my little girl? Well, she's doing fine! Growing like a weed. Actually for her I'd say she is growing like a beautiful flower.
One of the best parts is that(and I don't know if I mentioned this already) on her last Heart Doctor visit the Dr. said that she is looking VERY well, and she couldn't find that she even had pulmonary stenosis. There was some other narrowing(I forgot exactly where)but it was nowhere near the severity that our other Dr. had found. I don't know if it's because she's our new Dr. or what, because our other Dr. always found it to be at least moderate. But I hope not and that this is the real deal, but this Dr. is supposed to be really thorough from what we heard about her. So, she's not out of the woods yet but it is definitely looking better, so I am glad about that!
Hope everyone has a good night!
-Sterling Holobyte

August 21, 2004 - Msg 23050: I emailed Floyd about the interlopers.

Boo


August 21, 2004 - Msg 23051: That's great news about your little girl, Sterling. Let's just thank God for good results!

Boo
August 21, 2004 - Msg 23052: Thanks Boo! And thanks for being you!
Ro, I hear ya on the little train. A child could have dropped it and the Lord wanted me to see it!
I was so amazed i couldnt take it, and decided to leave it right there. Sometimes, I wish I had, but all is well now, as 10 years have passed.
MD- Is the navy car running this weekend, 17 I think. We should root for it for pipeman!
That'll get him riled up! teehee
Spot- welcome back. The vittles were pretty slim in your absence, then we had to give the big freeze, now I hope it dont become a moulage!
A little Lawrence Welk tonight, a little porch settin' and a little squeezin sippin'.
Ya all have pleasant dreams!
MDC
August 21, 2004 - Msg 23053: Hey to the Porch. Hey 038; why don't you go up an alley
and holler "fish!"....I said it and I ain't takin'
it back neither...

-- Jelsik T. Bulkhead

August 22, 2004 - Msg 23054: Just wanted to check in & tell ya'll I'm still kicking, mostly everything, been an angry, crying day, woke up crying & spent 95% of the day still crying, be back tomorrow. Love you guys
*Mavis
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23055: Prayers Mavis, hey Jelsik,Boo,MDC,Sterling,Mrs Wiley,FG,Asa,and all the porch!..this morning its gona be skillet grilled pork chops [two thick ones apiece],hash browns,baked apple rings,eggs your way,texas toast,butter,coffee,H2o,and a tear from my roll of paper towels,WOW its good to be back on the porch cooking!..signed:SPOT the"the good Sunday morning bless all" dog of this here fine porch ...lights are on!
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23056: Good Sabbath morning everyone. Hope your day is bright and beautiful.
Mavis, I am sorry about your hurting. It's normal to feel the range of emotions your feeling right now. I know things will get better for you in time and you and your family are in my prayers.
So good to see you again Fun Girl. Been wondering where you got off to. I heard you had run off with a dish towel salesman.
Guess I'll go watch the boob tube and see what the media thinks I ought to be seeing, and what I ought to be thinking. Spooky huh?

Asa
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23057: REMOVED

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August 22, 2004 - Msg 23070: hey MDC.. the Navy car finished 14th in the Busch race Saturday ( #14 Casey Atwood ) the U.S. Army car #01 and the National Guard car #16 are running in the cup race today .Floyd must be out of town this weekend from the looks of some of the postings on here yesterday and today.Everybody have a great day
mayberry deputy