November 21, 2006 - Msg 47236: Good morning everyone. I just have a second, but if you want to see Goober as Mr. Spock, someone over at Miss Crump's concocted an image of it. It's a hoot! Here's the link: http://www.tagsrwc.com/crumpbb/messages/21572.html
(Sorry, I'm not ept like HORATIO to make it live.)

I'll try and mull over your problem, BOO. As a 4-year-old Sunday school teacher, I've seen my share of disruptive behavior, too.

See y'all at lunch. The diner? Olive could use the tip.

Me-They
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47237: Hey, I swept! And I didn't even have broom!

Me-They
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47238: Morning Porch friends, Just checking on everyone, been busy and not had much time to rock lately. Thanks for sweeping M-T, good job.
Romeena, you don't have to return that photo, you may need a scarecrow for your garden in the spring :). Hope everyone is doing okay, Prayers and good thoughts for everyone. Big Maude
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47239: Oh, I don't know, Romeena and MDC. Remember that Goober was a pretty logical chap when he sported his beard.:)

Put those 3 kids in another (darkened)room when they disrupt the class and let them disrupt each other all they want, Boo. But really, though, I think you hit the nail on the head when you talked about their lack of discipline in the home. That could have a lot to do with it. But even if they don't get enough discipline at home, that doesn't mean they shouldn't receive discipline anywhere else. You, and your assistant have to show them who's boss, because it looks like they think that THEY are. They have to see that unruly behaviour will have consequences, whether it be putting them each in a separate corner of the room or having serious sit-down talks with them AND their parents about their behaviour and in doing so embarrassing the heck out of them and their parents, who most assuredly won't like that the behaviour of their perfect angels are causing THEM to get a talking to.
Well, those are my thoughts anyway.
Have a good day, everyone.
-Sterling Holobyte
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47240: Good Morning gang.good sweep M-T....lunch will be at burger king on M-T........SPOT
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47241: Boo, I taught sunday school to elementary school aged kids and also had some disruptive kids. I told them if they did not stop, I would go and get their parents out of their sunday school classes to come and take care of them. That seemed to work well. Of course you have to follow through with the plan if they don't behave. I agree, the problem many times begins with the parents. I had a couple of kids that I knew the parents would be upset and also knew the parents well enough to know that they would not stand for such behavior so involving them seemed to to the trick. Prayers and good luck. Big Maude
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47242: Just some school news from my area. One of the schools I work at is large for this area. Our middle school is between 750-800 7th and 8th grade students. You can just imagine the high school. Last week, we had 1 bomb threat at the middle school (which is connected by a tunnel to the high school)and a threat of Columbine by some caucasian students on the homose*ual, black and hispanic students so the Police were out in full riot gear with guns roaming the hallways in the high school. When you say it can't happen in your area - boy are you wrong! I am waiting for an even bigger boom - because I think something bad will happen in this school. The lack of discipline is atrocious. I would not want my children to go to school here.

Things are going well - my tests proved inconclusive so probably my next step will the ENT.

homemaker


November 21, 2006 - Msg 47243: Things here are going better...The flu has finally flown. I am cooking a small dinnner on Thursday for my ex and son and my dad and me. Yeah, I kinda miss our mayor too. Isnt it awful how a stroke can hit and change your whole life? Prayers for him and his family. This must be so hard on them.

fun girl

November 21, 2006 - Msg 47244: FUNGIRL: GLad you are feeling better.

ROMEENA: That was so nice of you to put COLT's picture on the intro page of your album. I can't wait to see everyone's pictures (hint, hint, everybody!).

BOO: If you can't change things with the kids, you should gently involve the parents. If that doesn't help (many parents can be oblivious to the rude behavior of their children), then you may have to tell the parents that you just can't give their child the individual attention that they need and ask them to hold the kids out of class. It's a sad last resort, but sometimes necessary. After all, ultimately, you aren't being the teacher you need to be if you allow these kids to take over all your time.

HM: That's horrible. But you're right; it can happen anywhere.

Jump in for Burger King. Who wants shotgun?

Me-They
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47245: Good Morning!!
I am getting all ready for Turkey day..got my centerpieces going and my place cards signed. Its coming together, I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving. Its so nice to hear my 5 year old pray for her thanksgivings and just tell us what she is thankful for.. And when I asked, the first thing she said she was thankful for was God.. Amen!

Boo: I would have a deacon or a pastor come in during the Sunday School hour and speak to the kids..as a whole. Let the pastor/deacon stay in there for the whole time if needed. If anymore disruptions occur later...on more Sundays, I would definetly have to speak to the parents. If I had a kid acting like that I would certainly want to know. We've had some issues with older kids on Wed nights and we've had our associate pastor come up and talk to them. I think it did help ( I dont work with that group, but was told).

Have a great day!

Idelle
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47246: Good Morning!!
I am getting all ready for Turkey day..got my centerpieces going and my place cards signed. Its coming together, I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving. Its so nice to hear my 5 year old pray for her thanksgivings and just tell us what she is thankful for.. And when I asked, the first thing she said she was thankful for was God.. Amen!

Boo: I would have a deacon or a pastor come in during the Sunday School hour and speak to the kids..as a whole. Let the pastor/deacon stay in there for the whole time if needed. If anymore disruptions occur later...on more Sundays, I would definetly have to speak to the parents. If I had a kid acting like that I would certainly want to know. We've had some issues with older kids on Wed nights and we've had our associate pastor come up and talk to them. I think it did help ( I dont work with that group, but was told).

Have a great day!

Idelle
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47247: OOPS!! sorry about that
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47248: Oh no, Homemaker. I was really hoping it wouldn't happen in your town. The way you describe it is so nice, I just hate that it is happening in your schools. Prayers for your community and the children who live there.

Thanks for all the wonderful advice, it's all very good. I want so much to teach them something, and I am a good teacher, but as Me-They said, I can't be the kind of teacher I should be if I can't control the class. I also really like what Sterling said about teaching them that there are consequences to their choices. That is a very important lesson for them to learn and maybe I can help with that since they aren't getting it at home. I like to think I am there every Sunday to make a difference. I was talking to my pastor-friend, Mark about it the other day and he told me that I shouldn't expect to change them in one hour each week when their parents don't make them behave all week. I think that attitude stinks. Mark is a great guy but we don't always see eye to eye (like most friends) and I'm not afraid to tell him so. Anyway, last Sunday was pretty bad. We had a visiting young man who is a 6th grader and very well-mannered and he came to me at the end of class and said, "I don't think I belong in this class". I asked him what grade he is in and he said, "Sixth but these kids act alot younger". Well, that cracked it for me. When they are chasing off the well-behaved visitors, it's time to do something drastic. I am going to do something. A couple of weeks ago I met with my co-teacher to discuss the problem and I had drawn up a letter to send to parents about the problem but my co-teacher talked me out of it saying that some of the kids wouldn't come back and that we should try talking to the kids first...bad idea, so I am going back to plan A and involving the parents. Just because the parents aren't going to be good parents and insist that their kids come to Sunday School and behave, doesn't mean that I shouldn't be a good teacher and teach something to the ones that come and are capable of learning something. I am also thinking of something else that might embarass them enough to do some good. When one becomes disruptive and won't obey, I think I might sit them in the hall in a chair, supervised be either the co-teacher or myself. That way they are away from the other kids who they are trying to impress with their behavior and can be seen by others sitting in the hall. Also, it gives us a chance as teachers to have some one on one time to talk to them about their behavior. Just a something I am thinking about, what do ya'll think?

I want shotgun, Me-They.

Boo
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47249: Hey, Idelle, so sweet about your little one! As far as involving the deacons/pastor. There are two deacons (my husband, Bruce and one other man who is out of town alot!). Bruce and the pastor both teach adult ss classes so they aren't available. One of the teachers of the 5 yr olds is a big, football player looking guy that looks like a biker. He offered to come in some time so I am keeping that in mind, but I don't know how much good it would do to have someone come in just once. I might try it, though.

Boo
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47250: Almost forgot, I went on Miss Crump's, Me-They and saw that picture. So funny. Did you read the posted comments about Goober/Spock? Hilarious..you should all go over there and read them.

Boo
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47251: Hey Y'all! Idelle's chewing her cabbage twice! Ha!
Me-They,I'll go to Burger King with you,but only if I get the Burger King Kiddie Crown this time-Asa always grabs them from the cashier before anybody else can get their hands on one! Never did figure out how he kept one of those things on his head,with all that Dippity Doo he uses to slick down with!
Can y'all believe it is SNOWING in Charleston,SC today? Mr. Possum called this morning from work and said it was coming down heavy- big fat flakes along with thunder & lightning. Kind of unheard of in these parts. No snow at my rock though-just rain with some sleet mixed in. I'm dreaming of a White Christmas though. Believe it or not,I HAVE seen a White Christmas here in SC- back in 1986,so it IS possible.
Fun Girl,happy to hear that you're feeling better!
I miss our Mayor too. Prayers for Colt.
Goober as Spock? Good grief! I've gotta check this out over at Miss Crumps.
Romeena,you mentioned the flowers that were blooming out of season- guess what I saw yesterday when I was out walking? An Easter lily in bloom on the side of the road. I had to do a double-take,but yep,no question-it was an Easter Lily!
Well,guess I'm off to take a gander at Goober Spock- y'all have a good day!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47252: Hey Miss Boo!

possum again


November 21, 2006 - Msg 47253: LOL! Just got back from Miss Crump's and saw that pic of Goober as Spock.(for those who don't want to go through all the posts it is the upper post from Ernest T) All I can say is, boy, that would have really changed Star Trek!

They also have a picture of, I think it is Emma Brand if I am not mistaken, as Princess Leia, a few posts below the Spock one.

-Sterling Holobyte
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47254: You get the crown, POSSUM. I'll make sure ASA get's a kiddie meal with a toy to keep him busy. I think they are still giving out Matchbox cars.

Sounds like you have a plan there, BOO. You've gotten some great advice from the porch, too.

IDELLE: Sounds like you're having a regular Martha Stewart Thanksgiving. That's neat about your daughter. Kids are wonderfully suprising, aren't they? They are a blessing.

M-T
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47255: What's evryone doing for Thanksgiving anyway? We are traveling ten whole miles to my parents. My mom is cooking for us, my grandmother, aunt, great uncle, and two of my parents friends, so it'll be a nice crowd. My brother and his family are going to visit from West Virginia, but they aren't staying to eat (they are going to his in-laws who live nearby). Normally, we'd be going to the Mrs.' sister's house in Delaware to celebrate with them and the rest of her family, but plans went awry thsi year. We would have had them up to our house, but we have been able to have them for dinner since about four kids ago (they have ten). (There would be seven adults, three grown kids, ten small kids, and two infants--too many for our 1,100 square foot house.) Hopefully, we'll get together with them soon. So, no real traveling this year and no cooking. We really made out!

M-T
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47256: I meant to say we'd usually be going to the in-laws on Saturday. We alternate each year, one family on Thursday, the other on Saturday.

M-T
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47257: "Hey" to Possum.

Boy, you are lucky, Me-They! We are having Thanksgiving here at Mom and Dad's and I am making the turkey, cornbread dressing, pumpkin and pecan pie, and providing the tea and flavored coffee. Sister is bringing her husband, son, daughter-in-law, 2 grandchildren, sweet potatoes, broccoli-cheese casserole, and a blueberry-banana cream cheese pie (my favorite), mom-in-law is bringing her husband, chocolate pie and cranberry relish, my friend Karen is bringing her 3 kids, grandbaby and mashed potatoes, sister-in-law Vickie is bringing herself if she is up to it (she is the one who recently divorced and her ex is dying with cancer. She has been very depressed and unable to even work, poor thing. We are asking her to come and she said she might. I hate for her to spend Thanksgiving alone in that apartment). So...we will have a houseful and the kids will play football and baseball and ride bikes outside. The weather is supposed to be dry and in the 70's. I will be very busy between now and Friday morning! Do any of you have any Thanksgiving traditions to share?? I always get up and watch Macy's parade while basting the turkey and making pies. I love it!

Boo
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47258: ...oh, and we will be eating on (cover your ears Idelle) paper plates and drinking from plastic cups!! I don't have a dishwasher here and I want to do something besides stand in the kitchen for 24 hours.

Boo
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47259: We have a dishwasher...me! The Mrs. hands are super-sensitive anyway, and washing them at work constantly usually has them raw and cracking, so I get dish duty. I have done it twice a day, nearly every day, for nine years. I don't mind most of the time. She pushed her luck a few years ago by getting rid of all the non-stick cookware and switching to stainless steel because of the possible health concerns. I told her I'd rather take my chances with toxic levels of teflon building up in my body. Of course, she brought up the children and won the argument. You women sure are sneaky.

I have watched the Macy's parade almost every year since I can remember. I like switching back forth between the networks and getting teh different angles. I also used to like watching the "All-American Day Parade" and watching the hula dancers in Hawaii ;).

Me-They
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47260: hey everyone ,gonna be out of touch for the next few days ,just wanted to wish everyone a happy and safe Thanksgiving .Prayers for all porchsters in need
MAYBERRY DEPUTY
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47261: Oh..Please dont compare me to Martha Stewart..I'd much rather be Paula Deen..haha!!

We are having a TON of food...should I share the menu, like BOO did? Ok, I will,

I wont tell who's doing what, but everyone does bring at least one dish.
Me: (hubby)Fried Turkey, sweet taters, mashed taters, peach salad, cranberry sauce w/oranges, broccoli casserole, collards, gooey pumpkin butter cake, butter pecan cake, apple butter pumpkin pie, pecan squares, tea, coffee. That is all I can think of that I am doing..
Then,others are bringing: grilled turkey, dressing, gravy, kale (my mom), corn pudding, snaps, butter beans, homemade rolls, choc. eclair, cookies, cranberry salad.

And yes, its on CHINA..except for the dessert, I bought paper plates.

I like watching the parade too..but gee, will I ever have time this year?
METHey..I switch channels too for different angles..hmm..wonder what that means about us. Normally I like NBC though, cause I like Matt and Katie..but dont know about this year.

IDelle
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47262: Oh.. BOO... ya'll only have 2 deacons in your whole church??

Idelle
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47263: Well I lost the battle I have to go to my sisters for Thanksgiving. But hubby talked my kids into going too so now I am not cooking I just have to figure out how to keep my granddaughter from tearing up my sister brand new house that is not in any way child proof. Should be alot of fun keeping her from touching everything at 2 she is curious. Worst case we won't be invited back and I won't have that hour drive each way. HAHA
Skippy
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47264: just stopping by to wish you all a blessed thanksgiving,I have been so busy i haven't had a chance to stop by the porch.i miss you all.until later-ky girl
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47265: Yum, that sounds great IDELLE. I don't know what she's having, but based on many years of experience I'm sure my mom's dinner will be delicious. About switching channels, in my case I just don't want to miss anything! What's your all-time favorite float? Mine is Underdog, unfortunately retired in the early 1980s. I loved that show as a kid and was thrilled when they made it into a float.

SKIPPY: Your concern reminds me of my brother-in-law, who calls our house "the museum" when he brings his kids over. Our house isn't really child-proof either, but thankfully, except for a few little things, our kids have never really borthered with things they shouldn't. My nieces (brother-in-law's girls) are darned cute, but have to touch and hold everything.

Happy T-day KY GIRL and MAYBERRY DEPUTY. I'll (hopefully) see the rest of you tomorrow, plus a few of the missing.

Me-They
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47266: Our only tradition is to watch HOME ALONE the night before Thanksgiving. Oh and lots of good food too.

My mother has white carpet and their house is pretty much a "no touch" zone. When something gets messed up or spilled, she always tries to act like its no problem, but the kids all know it is. You can not fool kids! I remember once my nephew dropped a plate and ended up in tears.

Bless his heart.
fun girl
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47267: Yes, Idelle, can you believe it?! We did have four but one retired and moved and one left his wife for another woman and moved to Florida. Now it's just my husband and one other who is about to retire and move I think. It is way past time for another deacon election. Our church is thriving with lots of young couples and children and there is alot to do. We only have a membership of about 300, though (and growing). Your menu sounds wonderful! I am going to make my pies tonight while my darling daughter is having a sleep-over with her cousin. I am trying to get things done ahead so I can enjoy the day.

Thanks for offering to wash dishes, Me-They! You are a real friend, indeed (I'll save you an extra big peice of pie...what's your favorite?).

Well, been running around all afternoon and didn't cook so Bruce is taking Sean and I our to Blackbeard's (local seafood and steak place) for dinner. Talk to you later...the rest of you, share your Thanksgiving plans, menus, etc.

Boo
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47268: Oh hey, KY Girl and Fungirl, Skippy and MD!

Fungirl, your post reminded me of the Thanksgiving that we had just gotten new light-colored carpet and one of my nephews was carrying a big pan of candied yams through the living room and poured a big stream of brown syrup from one end to the other! I took it well, not wanting to upset the relatives but Bruce was very quiet with a little steam coming from both ears!

Boo
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47269: Almost forgot...TOM, I saw the new picture you sent to Ro. What beautiful blue eyes you have, very handsome picture!

Boo
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47270: Evening folks.
I'm not sure if I shared this with you last year or not. My neighbor really does an incredible light display that I usually help him set up.
He has a small radio broadcast signal that you tune your fm dial too and has about 8 songs done in a loop that the lights are in sync too.
Afetr you get to his website click on videos on the left hand side. You have a couple of choices there. I like the second one Stille Nacht (Silent Night by Mannheim Steamroller) Hope you like it.
http://westhavenlights.com

Asa
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47271: Me-They When my children were little one year at Thanksgiving we went over my sisters and it was muddy out and the kids played ball at the rec center in my sisters community they walked threw the grass as not to get mud on the driveway and sidewalk took their shooes off and left them in the grass. I thought that was good. My brother-in-law looked out side and went off because they got mud on the grass and he washed his grass off and yelled at the children.
There is no way to when at their house.
Skippy
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47272:
wOW, HEY TO ALL. no time to even get caught up tonight.
have a great evening.
MDC
November 21, 2006 - Msg 47273: Wow Skippy, no wonder you don't want to spend Thanksgiving at her house. I don't understand people like that. The joy of having a home is being able to share it with open hearts and hands. I think your sister was very lucky that your children were thoughful enough not to track mud into her house.

Asa, I tried that site and when I clicked on Silent Night, the black screen with "Windows" came on but never would play. Not sure what I am doing wrong.

Boy, dinner was great tonight. The cook at the restraunt we went to is a friend so he went the extra mile. I had Chicken Marsella with mushrooms and wine sauce and it was great. Wish you could all of joined me. As we were pulling in the driveway, I got a call from my neice saying my little girl (who was sleeping over at her house) was running a fever and felt bad. We backed out and went to get her. She is laying on the couch sniffing and coughing with a very red little face. Great, just in time for Thanksgiving. I am going to start loading up on vitamins (I might even get some Oregamax, MDC...there, I said it so you won't have to).

Boo
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47274: Mornin' Honeys! Mornin' Dears! Finally got my fingers working well enought to type.
Wow, all y'all's Thanksgiving plans sound great.
Skippy, sorry you have to suck it up. There's always one in a family, huh?
Hey Boo, if you love chicken Marsala, my restaurant makes the BEST I've ever had. If I could just figure a way to ship it to Texas....
Ro, I lost the addy for your album...what is it again?
Asa, thanks for the Christmas light show....I really enjoyed that.
Gotta go, I'm fixing deviled eggs and pies for the feast.
More later.
Millie
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47275: I love deviled eggs Mil> Save some for me. Glad you liked the light show. It really is spectacular.
Boo, not sure why it won't work for you. Maybe you need bigger wires.
Glad you're feeling better Fungirl. Just in time huh.
Boo, about Thanksgiving traditions, we always have family here for dinner. We will always ask each person at the dinner table to express what they are thankful for. And I always try to find a good short story about being thankful to tell. When our children were young-uns we would go on the day before T day and spend a few hours working at a homeless shelter. I always wanted my children to see there were folks in real need. That way they were not as upset if they didn't have designer jeans or the latest Nike shoes.
Then of course at dusk everyone has to go outside for the traditional lighting of the house ceremony. (If you have ever watched Christmas Vacation it is much like that....drum roll please). Then we plug in a Christmas video and watch that.
I hope everyone has a blessed and wonderful Thanksgiving. We do have much to be thankful for, and may our troops be blessed and safe.

Asa
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47276: Absolutely fan-tabulous Asa - I really enjoyed both videos and have told many others about the website. I can see you in the Chevy Chase role - I think it fits, specially since you pulled a Chevy Chase on your VACATION and bumped your noggin!

homemaker
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47277: Good morning everyone. It's gonna rain here, but hopefully will stop before I have to loosen teh belt tomorrow.

SKIPPY: I'm sorry, I'd have to tell your brother-in-law to pull that stick out of his...well, you know where it is. That's just crazy. BOO's right, life's too short and people are much more important than things. Muddy grass! Now I have heard everything. I'll say an extra prayer for patience, and dry weather, for you.

ASA as Clark Griswold, huh? That might just fit. Watch it if your cousin's family shows up in an RV. I wish I could get the full experience of that link you provided, but I don't have sound. Maybe I'll try on my parent's computer tomorrow, but they have dial-up.

MILLIE: You take care and don't try and do too much. Save an egg for me, too. Do you put a dab of horseradish in yours? Yum.

BOO: I hope that Erin is feeling better today. Chad and I have had a cough/sore throat for the past two weeks. Just can't seem to shake it. Thankfully, Nora-"I'm ready for my close-up, Mr. DeMille"-hasn't had it. She has the immune system of an aspirin; she rarely ever gets sick.

Speaking of Nora, she loves the Grinch. So this year instead of renting it (the Jim Carey version) several times, the Mrs. bought it when she saw it on sale at Target. That was Sunday. That movie has already played six times.

It's actually kind of intesting how she ended up seeing that movie. Two years ago, while I was in a Bible study group, she was being babysat along with a couple of other kids by two teens from someone else in the class. One of the other kids brought the movie and they played it. I likely wouldn't have let her watch it then. But it just goes to show, you have to constantly be vigilant about what your kids are watching and not take things for granted. I'm just thankful that it wasn't "Poltergeist" or something.

What is the deal about this Oregomax you all keep talking about? Does it have the "secret spice?"

You know, one of the things I am truly thankful for is this here proch and all y'all.

Me-They
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47278: Oh, MILLIE, ROMEENA's album is at Romeena . myphotoalbum . com (eliminate the spaces).

M-T
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47279: Good Morning everyone..
Well I have started cooking.. Got the turkey patted dry and in the fridge waiting to be fried in the morning. Just gotta season it tonight. And started on a congealed peach salad..yum. More to do though. Gotta cook some chicken nuggets for school and take that to the party.

Boo: It is amazing that ya'll only have just 2 deacons for that many at church..even with just 4 when you had that. Our Sunday average is probably 350 or so, the membership roll is over 800 though and we have 20some deacons. Just elected 6 more a few months ago. We have a lot of ministries and the deacons are certainly used.

Have a great day everyone..
Idelle
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47280: thanks for posting that address for ro's photo album. I had written it down and then tossed the paper I wrote it on. (oops) Here is hoping that each and every one of us has a blessed Thanksgiving and that we take the time to express to the Lord just how grateful we are for the MANY blessings He bestowed on us this year!

Hugs my dear porch friends!
fun girl

November 22, 2006 - Msg 47281: Good morning, everyone! Just got home from work, have made my way through the archives. My stars! Columbine threats at homemaker's school, rude and undisciplined kids in Boo's SS class (hmm, does one lead to the other?) and it all makes one wonder what this world is coming to. homemaker, I'm glad your kids don't attend that school. Boo, sounds like you've got a real problem there. Involving the parents is a good idea, but too often since the parents are the root of the problem, not much is solved. Talking with them probably won't help, they'll just think you're picking on their little darling.

You might consider inviting all the parents, one couple at a time, to sit in on the class, without singling out the ones with the rude kids. Maybe if they see the behavior firsthand, it will make an impression. Or - set up a video camera in a hidden spot, and send the parents a copy of the results. My brother nailed a thieving employee in his jewelry store by using a hidden camera. Clear pictures, no question about it, the police were absolutely gleeful, knowing they had an airtight case. Sad thing was, it was an 18 yr old girl, and she stole over $10,000 in jewelry and cash - definitely a felony. That's what happens when kids aren't taught right from wrong, and about the rights of other people. I'm sorry, but "time out" just doesn't cut it for me. I watched a kid scream obscenities at his mother in the grocery store, and nearly fell over when she told him he was "going in time out" when they got home. Had he been mine, he'd probably still be eating his spinach standing up. Parents don't realize how they're actually abusing their children when they don't teach them good behavior. If they don't, the world will later on, and won't do it very gently. Well, that's my soapbox for the day.

Time to eat a bite, catch a little nap, then start putting my lighted reindeer out in the yard. My son put the roof lights up last night while I was at work, bless his little pea-pickin' heart. I'll put the reindeer in the back yard where I can see them from my window. Who cares whether strangers passing by can see them? Not I!

Sugarplum says gobble, gobble. --Romeena
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47282: Our deacons are dead-weight, ha...just kidding...my husband does alot but the other one is not as active. Bruce has been so busy with getting the house built that he is less involved than he used to be. In our church, various members head up different ministries. We just started 3 new ones last month, too. We started the Salvation Army canteen, that feeds the homeless in the inner-city, a teaching ministry at the local drug rehab for kids (that's the one I was telling you about that I was going to on Monday nights...it is such a blessing), and a ministry to single mom's and widows...this part is interesting...You all remember Linda that you all prayed for who died recently, well, a month before she died she and Keith decided they wanted to start a fund for single moms when Linda passed away. They received and are still receiving some sizable contributions to the fund in Linda's honor. About a week after, one of our church members came to the pastor (he knew nothing about the fund) and offered to head a ministry to single moms and widows. It is a much-needed ministry in our church with all the young people we have, some divorced and many navy moms whose husbands are in Iraq. Anyway, we seem to do ok with only 2 deacons. I think if you have members who like to join in the church work, it works out well. For instance, when my husband couldn't be at the hospital with Don's wife last week during his surgery, I went and was very blessed by being there. I can't help but think that if we had lots of deacons, I might not get to do things like that, you know? Having said that, I do agree that we need more than two, though!!

Asa, what a nice post and lovely traditions! Thank you for sharing them with us, Clark...uh, I mean Asa. Let me ask you, did your dad teach you everything you know about, "exterior illumination"? (a quote from the movie). Hey, that's an idea. We could have a Christmas Vacation quote-a-thon....

I finally sent my pictures to Ro last night so they should be in the album soon.

Gotta go get to work...gobble, gobble!

Boo
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47283: My first paragraph above was directed to Idelle, in case it doesn't make sense. Hey to Romeena!

Boo
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47284: Have a great day everyone. Looks like a rainy one over here!

Deputy Warren Ferguson
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47285: Since when is making sense required aren't here, BOO? I'm in biiiiig trouble.

M-T
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47286: See, I said "aren't" when I meant "around." How much sense is that?

M-T (again)
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47287: Hey gang...prayers needed...a very good friend and co-worker of mine nephew got killed yesterday on a 4-wheeler accident...he was 15 years old...I will be going to the funeral home friday night...thanks....will be back with supper in a bit...SPOT
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47288: Hey yall my new pics on Ro"s page have no names or nothing under them?.......who is everybody?!..SPOT
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47289: Hello everyone.

For those who would like to see Goober dressed up as Mr. Spock from Star Trek, click on Goober as Mr. Spock.

To Millie, I am saddened to hear of your recent physical problems. I only wish I could offer more advice. But at least you got your fingers working so you can type and join us here. But how dare a good Christian like you prepare devilled eggs? ;)

To Boo Msg 47248, have you considered videotaping the sunday school class? There is no reason to hide the camera because once the word gets out, hiding it will be a waste of time. Plus, with keeping the camera out in the open, you can claim you're using it for other more positive reasons such as:
- can be viewed later by the pastor, deacons and parents for evaluation of content and procedures.
- provides solid evidence to support claims of any kind.
- to be viewed by students who miss the previous class.
- as a training evaluator for the teachers.
Locate the camera to the side and up in front of the room. Installation and operation of the camera will be easier and cheaper if left out in the open. The camera can remain fixed on a tripod or operated by the second teacher.
I like the idea about isolating the disrupter, but not at the expense of losing the second teacher to the class who is behaving. Move the disrupter to the front of the class with their backs to the rest of the class. And make sure they are closest to the video camera.
As for obtaining a video camera, borrow from parents on a rotating basis, or borrow from the local library, or purchase one since they have come down in price. Also purchase a few tapes and maybe a tripod. This camera can also be used to record all sorts of events involving the church and its members.

To M-T Msg 47255, you think you are tight on space for family dinners? My grandmother made it a practice to have everyone come for Christmas dinner in her 750 square foot house. Since the kitchen table only seated six people, we ate in three shifts.

Here in Canada, we celebrated Thanksgiving on October 9. So we'll just go out to a restaurant for a meal on Thursday. There's only the 3 of us.

from Poor Horatio
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47290: Prayers for your friend's family, SPOT. How very sad for them. What happened to the boy? You said it was a 4-wheeler but what happened?

PH, good one about Millie and the devilled eggs! As far as video taping the class, that might be an option later but I want to try a few other things first, thanks for the idea (I think Romeena had that idea, too).

SPOT, my new pictures are on Ro's site but she is still going to put them into a sub-album and label them.

Got the dressing put together so the flavors can blend overnight. I will just have to add the turkey broth tomorrow and bake. Just 2 pies to go....

Boo
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47291: Boo the 4-wheeler fliped over on him and it broke his neck....now the pics with no names?...who are they?...Supper with be at Olive Garden on me and Horatio.....SPOT
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47292: Ok got it figured out now Boo...duh me...its your bunch and your house site right?...man thats some pretty laying land!...SPOT
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47293: Asa could be a kin to Hank Hill cept his profession would "exterior illumination" said in the Hank Hill voice he uses with "pro-pane" - I can see that too but I would rather imagine Asa as Clark. . .too too funny!

Happy Turkey day (eve)- ya'll. . . .

homemaker
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47294: "Exterior illumination and illumination excessories" Ha!

HORATIO: Now that's what I call a crowd! But you shouldn't taken up much room being half a boy. My grandmother still invited everyone over at Christmas, but now just does a sort of open house in the afternoon with finger food. She lives in a 24 x 24 efficiency attached to my house. On Christmas day, you can't hanrdly fit another sardine in the can.

That's so sad about your friend's son, SPOT. Of course the family will be in my prayers this evening. I'm not a fan of four wheelers anyway, and this is one reason, among many.

BOO: I checked out your pics. Fine looking family. Only one person missing. I wonder who it could be...? It's funny about preconceived notions. Whem you talk about your land (which looks real nice, by the way) covered with trees, I imagined it looking like a wooded area here--densely forested with 50-100 trees with hilly terrain. I never even gave your Texas location consideration. It does look great, though, and will look even better with your Boomansion on it!

I wonder where LUCY has been? Last she wrote things were tough. I hope that all is well.

Well, I'm outta here for today. Happy Thanksgiving! See you in the parade, IDELLE. Hula, hula!

Me-"Eatin' speaks louder than words"-They
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47295: Boy, I hope CHARLOTTE doesn't see that last post of mine. Sheeesh!

Gobble! (I borrowed some exclamation points from BWB.)

Me-They
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47296:
Happy Thanksgiving, Thank you Jesus!
Boo-sorry i did not offer any advise. When i left teaching we could still give swats! ha
Possum, SNOW?? wow, please send it here.
Ro- 50's- great decade!
Well, ya all have a good one! More friday
MDC
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47297: SPOT, that is so sad. I don't like 4-wheelers or motorcycles, either...wouldn't even like cars if they weren't a neccesity. I was remembering one Thanksgiving 15 years ago when I was on my way to work and witnessed a young man being killed on the road. He was changing a tire in a dangerous spot and someone hit him. I had problems sleeping and being alone for months after seeing it. I hate that so many fatal accidents could be easily avoided. If only the man had driven just a few yards farther, there was an exit and a safe place to change a tire. Still, 15 years later, if I see an accident on the road I feel very nervous. I hope you will all be very careful this holiday season. Make wise choices.

Thanks for the compliment, Me-They, but you didn't carry on near long enough about my gorgeous children! hehe. Yes, about the land. Here on the coast, things are very sandy and very flat. The trees in the picture look small and scrubby right now but as we thin them out and pull out the old roots, they will start to grow pretty quick and be very pretty. I will also be fairly easy to grow some grass when the time comes. It will take some work and time but the place will look really nice someday....(we have to have vision! haha). About my picture missing from the rest, I will get someone to take one of me soon and I will send it to Ro so you can all get a look at this fat, middle-aged woman!

Gotta go check the pies...

Boo
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47298: To Spot Msg 47287, sorry I missed your message. Rest in peace to your son's friend.
Regarding those 4-wheelers - although they do seem fun to ride, I have two gripes about them:
- They have a high center of gravity making them prone to tip over easily in turns.
- They need at least a roll-bar cage and harness to protect the driver from tip-overs.

from Poor Horatio
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47299: Good evening, everyone. Just came in from outdoors, weary and dirty. I love it! That's one of my favorite conditions, believe it or not. I like to work outside until I'm all dirty and bone-tired, then come inside and shower and put on something comfy and settle in front of the TV for the evening. Something about the contrast....

I got home from work this morning and never went to bed. My best buddy called, and we took off together about mid-morning, had lunch at Corner Bakery (yum!) and just moused around the rest of the day. I got home about four, and never even came inside. I got all the twinkle lights out in the shrubbery out front, the lighted "twig tree" set up and powered, the one reindeer that goes out front is now lighted and all is finished out there. I also planted some dianthus I mail-ordered, a new variety that's very pretty, and extremely hardy. Can't wait to see them bloom. I guess on Friday I'll get all the reindeer positioned and powered in the back yard, so I can see them from my window. About twenty strings of twinkles to go out there as well. I hope it stays cold so my a/c won't be running and my electric bill won't go up, with all this extra electrical stuff sucking up the power.

Sure does seem strange that my kitchen is quiet and uncluttered tonight. There should be cranberries cooked and cooling on the counter, stuffing preparations underway, pies in the oven, and all that wonderful homey stuff happening. Instead, in the morning I'll whip up a dumb little broccoli/rice casserole to take to my DIL's sister's house, where I have been invited to join them for dinner. I appreciate the invitation, and will go, but I miss the old days when it all happened in my kitchen. Huge old kitchen, I can seat 18 people at tables, 23 if we use the bar. (No, not a wet bar.) There were times when we even had to add a folding table to seat four more. I miss those days. My kids, their sweethearts or spouses, and usually a few strays who had nowhere else to go. Wonderful times. Sigh.

Well, guess I'll go eat a bowl of soup. Yay. Sugarplum says Happy Thanksgiving, and praise the Lord anyway! --Romeena

P.S. Lest anyone be feeling sorry for me - don't. I'm cooking a turkey Saturday night, my son and his family and a few friends will be here, and possibly one daughter and her boyfriend and his daughter. There's still one person missing, though. Sigh again. Holidays are hard.
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47300: Sorry to read about your friends son Spot. I pray for the family.
Boo, Homemaker, I'm all over the idea of a Christmas Vacation quote-a-thon. We use them all the time in our family, such as "I don't know MARGO". Or Ya wanna load me up there Art, it's gooo- ood!

Asa
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47301: OK, the album is updated. Boo's pictures now have captions. If you wish to read the comments, you must click on the picture to enlarge it. The comments will then appear. Boo, I put Sadie's picture in the pets sub-album, and you now have a sub-album all your own. Ten pictures, you get a sub-album! --Romeena
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47302: Thanks Ro! I really appreciate it. It sounds like you had a pretty good day today, bet you sleep like a baby tonight. You know, your post was very poignant when you were talking about your past Thanksgivings. Right now my sister and I are the ones cooking for everyone and things seem very hectic, but happy. I was just thinking about it a bit ago as I was taking one of the turkeys to her house so she could bake one. I was just thinking about how thankful I am to have my family and my parents still living. Anyway, I hope you have a blessed day tomorrow and on Saturday with your son. Just remember that one day we will all be together and won't it be wonderful?! No more death or separation for us. I'm most thankful for that! Bless you, Ro.

Think I will go to bed, set the alarm for 4am, put the turkey in to roast slowly and then go back to bed for awhile. When I wake up, this house will be filled with a heavenly aroma and it will be time for the parade. It's supposed to be in the 80's tomorrow here, with high humidity (bummer). I like cold weather at Thanksgiving. Good night and talk to you tomorrow,

Boo
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47303: Oh..I almost forgot my Christmas Vacation quote for ASA: "I wouldn't kiss him, he's got a lip fungus they ain't identified yet"~Eddie

Boo
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47304: Happy Thanksgiving to my porch family!! May you all enjoy great food, great company & remember to give thanks to our soldiers as well for keeping us free to have this wonderful holiday.
*Mavis
November 22, 2006 - Msg 47305: "Happy Thanksgiving Porch!im still here at work till 6 am,then back at 2 tomorrow to keep yalls lights on..Mom will have me a big plate to bring tomorrow...will stop by there!...SPOT
November 23, 2006 - Msg 47306: Well, it's 4am and I just put the turkey on and now I can't go back to sleep! Maybe if I talk for a little while I will get sleepy (or you will, haha). Thinking about the things I'm thankful for tonight...hope you all have a good Thanksgiving as you remember all the Lord has done for you and how wonderful it is to live in this great nation.

Here's another CV quote: Clark to Eddie (under his breath)..."..drive you out in the middle of nowhere and leave you for dead?"....

Boo
November 23, 2006 - Msg 47307: Good morning Porchsters! Here's wishing each & every one of you a blessed Thanksgiving.
You folks are among the many things I am thankful for-love you all.
Spot,sorry to hear about your friend's nephew. I have a 15 yr. old nephew,so I can imagine how I'd feel. God Bless that family.
Feel free to bring holiday leftovers to the Porch for later y'all!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
November 23, 2006 - Msg 47308: Happy Thanksgiving Porch.
Ha, Boo I love them quotes.
How about "The little lights aren't twinkling Clark".

Asa
November 23, 2006 - Msg 47309: Ha! I remember that one, Asa! I wish I had a copy of the movie, but I don't. I am just trying to remember quotes so some may not be exactly right.

Thanks, Possum. We love you, too (you are the sweetest possum that I know personally). I am very thankful for all of my friends, here and on the porch. You make my life much richer for knowing you, and all the prayers you have sent my way have been amazing. Also very thankful to be an American today.

I am watching the Macy's parade and I think the Scooby-Doo float is my favorite so far. He had the cutest expression on his face. Better go baste the turkey!

Here's a CV quote for ya, Asa: while watching the parade on TV, one of the older folks says about the Nutcracker float, "Where are the nuts, I can't see the nuts?".

Boo