December 07, 2006 - Msg 47650: Good morning ya'll - we were surprised that the skiff of snow we got accumalated into many wrecks and many busses late for school.

Been a traumatic couple of days at our house. . .too much to go into but the God is good and His blessings are ever increasing.

As far as the weather, when people ask me if it is cold enough I always reply that it makes me appreciate my 80 degree days and when people complain in the summer of it being so hot, I always reply that there is always one place hotter. It is all perspective.

Take care and have a cup of hot cocoa with some marshmallows on top for me!

homemaker
December 07, 2006 - Msg 47651: Looks like I swept. . .wow!

hm
December 07, 2006 - Msg 47652: prayers for ya, Homemaker.

Auh20, Rope is one of my favorites; I could watch it over and over. I also really like Henry Fonda in Twelve Angry Men. Ever see that one?

It's fairly warm here right now but we are expecting rain and a cold front around noon. Been busy with laundry and trying to get ready for the trip on Sunday....

Break over!

Boo




December 07, 2006 - Msg 47653: Oh, also wanted to mention Auh20 that I just read the story Jesus told about the rich guy who stored up all his goods and didn't give to the poor and the Lord took him and all he saved went to someone else. Jesus said something like, the same thing will happen to all who are greedy and aren't rich towards God. Makes you think.

Boo
December 07, 2006 - Msg 47654: THank you Boo! I really need them about NOW!
hm
December 07, 2006 - Msg 47655: ok tom u say so gizzmi.....

December 07, 2006 - Msg 47656: Hey Boo
I like ROPE also. What do you think of "To kill a Mockingbird"
Ahappynut
December 07, 2006 - Msg 47657: Hey Boo!!
Shop around the Corner rocked!!!
I really liked Frank Morgan-quite a change from seeing him as the Wizard.
I bought " Caracel" this week
No Matter How many times I see that movie-It always recuces me to a puddle of mush.
My daugher used to make fun of me(when she was still at home). She used to bring me a box of tissues every time the local PBS station showed it.
Now I have the DVD--
I also have "Brigadoon"
Sniffle sniffle
aHappy nut
December 07, 2006 - Msg 47658: Afternoon Porch,
Quick stop by before I do the dishes. I'm tellin' you that I'm runnin' around like a chicken with its head cut off! Calgon take me away!
I'll hopefully get to check in later. I didn't want y'all to forget me!
Blessings to you and yours,
~Lucy M.
December 07, 2006 - Msg 47659: Wow hey gang..wind is killing us here at work...going down to 17 tonight...burr...will someone bring me a plate?...SPOT
December 07, 2006 - Msg 47660: HEY WHERE THE HEAT AT.
17 is to cold for me.
love tom

December 07, 2006 - Msg 47661:
Hey all. a busy day today.
Prayers for all you great people.
Will try to write more tomorrow.
MDC
December 07, 2006 - Msg 47662: Sounds like everyone is busy and cold!

Happy Nut, I think everyone here on the porch loves To Kill A Mockingbird. I enjoyed the book more than the movie, but the movie is great, too. I saw Frank Morgan in an interesting movie the other day...something in the title about a storm? Had James Stuart in it, too. Anyway To Kill A Mockingbird is one of my favorite older movies. I also loved Ransom, with Glenn Ford. Ever see that one? Mr Blanding's Builds His Dreamhouse (Me-They's favorite) is a very good movie, too...very funny. Some of my favorite older films are The Women (with Joan Crawford), The Egg and I (Claudette Colbert and Fred MacMurray), and just about anything with Bette Davis.

Hope more folks show up on the porch tomorrow...seemed kind of lonely today.

I'll bring you a plate, SPOT, but all we had was Hamburger Helper and salad (and Christmas cookies).

Boo
December 07, 2006 - Msg 47663: Boo that would be GREAT!..I will get a fanta grape on ice...man-o-man now real bad but steady trees falling from this 30+ mph wind here in Georgia...just about caught up...kinda dieing down...ourside temp right now 19 headed to about 15 or so...but warming back up to 45 or so...then not so cold the next few nights...got Otis"s dog house FULL of wheat straw...he big enough to keep warm...well let me get me a slice of onion for that Boo Hamburger helper..yum...prayers...SPOT
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47664: Howdy - don't imagine there's anybody here, since it's about the middle of the night, but I wanted to check in. Just got home from my son's house about an hour ago, they came in on a late flight. I almost just stayed out there, but knew I'd never get up and get back into town in the morning, and I have an early appointment.

It's about 25 degrees outside right now. Brrr! Homemaker, do you think that there are more wrecks with a little bit of snow, compared to a lot of snow, because people sort of shrug it off and think they can drive just any old way? When the roads are nearly blocked, everyone has to slow down, but when there's a "skiff" of snow (great descriptive term) they drive too fast and get fooled when they hit a patch of ice. At least that's the way it is here in Texas, where "skiffs" are about all we ever get.

Grandsons were a hoot, had fun with them. The youngest learned he could eat a cheese omelet and it wouldn't poison him, much to his surprise. He's still highly skeptical about toast made using an English muffin instead of plain white bread, though. Three-year-olds! Humph! Sugarplum played with Bentley (the granddog) and had a good time, the cats tried to act injured at the presence of yet another dog in their house (snotty things), and I got to watch some good Christmas cartoon movies with the kids. I love those things!

As for "A Christmas Carol", I think I have five different versions on VHS or DVD, and they're all good. Alistair Sim, George C. Scott, Patrick Stewart, whoever - each brought a unique dimension to old Scrooge. It would be hard to choose a favorite.

Well, I'm off to bed. Stay warm, everyone. Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena

P.S. Check out the Christmas sub-album - Sterling's Nativity scene is there.
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47665: Morning gang ...brrr 18 degrees here in Georgia...fixing to get oof work....at 6...need a Good Warm Breakfast this morning:eggs your way,country ham,hashbrowns,grits,bisquits and red eye gravy,toast,pop tarts,cereal,apple rings,sausage links,flap jacks with maple syurp and blueberrys,milk,coffee,butter,mixed fruit jelly,h20,oj...whew...enjoy ready at 7:00 est...Asa come and get it!...prayers....brrrr...SPOT the cold dog of your porch!
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47666: I love Sterling's nativity! Very nice work.

Hope you had a good night, SPOT and didn't get any heartburn from the HHelper.

Sounds like you had a really nice time with the grandsons (and granddog) Romeena. I love those Christmas cartoons, too but the kids don't seem to get into them, darn it! I have been trying for weeks to try to get them to watch Charlie Brown Christmas with me. I wanted to remind you of the wonderful scene in A Christmas Carol with George C...remember when he wakes up on Christmas morning and is a new man? The joy, and the child-like glee he displays is great. I could watch it over and over.

Well, time to get the kids ready for school and my coffee cup is now empty....see you later,

Boo
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47667: Well things have quieted down here. . .my car broke down on Wednesday in the midst of my travelling as a teacher. In the repair shop yet today - I broke some belt and it needed a pully replaced. . .whatever. . .Then, our flue caught on fire from buildup (yes we clean it regularly but I guess just not regularly enough this time. . )no real damage except fire extinguisher dust everywhere. . .no fire department called, the husband and I took care of it. . .I will still be cleaning this weekend. . .it was just too much to handle withing in 12 hours. But God is good and I still have a house to live in - dirty - but liveable, and I didn't get stranded on the road, the car crept into the driveway. So - someone always has it worse than you. I have decided that everything is a matter of perspective and I am going to try and be as positive as I can..

We have been watching Miracle on 34th Street all week. It seems that every station is showing it two and three times. . .it is kind of fun!

Well - take care. . .

homemaker
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47668: P.S. Boo - my youngest son wouldn't miss a Christmas cartoon! He loves them and has them memorized. He just turned 9 - but he still loves all of them! And Christmas movies too. .

By the way, did anyone see the movie, The Christmas Card, I think on Hallmark. It is great!

hm
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47669: Man, I wish I got Hallmark channel, HM! Glad you survived your trauma...keep your chin up.

Boo
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47670:
Morning Porch

Well, it was 7 degrees when I took the kids to school this morning. However, that 12 to 18 inches of snow we were to get actually turned out to be about 0.05 inches.

homemaker-That's a great perspective you have there.

"The Homecoming" is my favorite Christmas movie but I love them all.

Romeena-I agree, when there is just a trace of snow people seem to always forget about the "black ice" it's almost more dangerous. It's similar to those drunk driving commercials (that I just loved by the way) that said everyone knows when someone has had way too much to drink but maybe don't notice when someone has had just too much to drink.

Have a good day folks. Talk to y'all in a bit.

auh2o
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47671:
...another slow day on the Porch.

I just read that another one of my heroes has passed, Jeane Kirkpatrick. RIP Jeane.

Forgot to mention that a neighbor of ours had a couple of bear cubs on their porch a little while back.

auh2o
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47672: That must have been painful, auh2o. How long was your neighbor in labor? Too bad she couldn't make it to the hospital and had to have them on the porch. ;)


Sorry for your troubles, homemaker. If it makes you feel any better, we all have them, so you are not alone. Don't you hate when a bunch of them happen all at once like that? Seems like you have a good att-itude though.
I know I am going to be having some troubles soon if I don't get a job. Our savings are getting lower and so I have stepped up my job-hunting. There is one job I really want that would just be perfect for me, location, hours, and duties. Appreciate any prayers that'll help me get it.

Have a good day, everyone.

-Sterling Holobyte
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47673: Thanks for making me laugh OUT LOUD, Sterling. It wasn't bad enough that the neighbor had one bear cub, but TWO! Prayers for that job you are hoping for.

Who's Jeane Kirkpatrick?

Where's Me-They?

Boo
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47674: Good afternoon all... Hope everyone is having a great friday. Sterling, praying that the Lord will provide a job for you soon. He is faithful!

My girls have been after me to watch "The Christmas Box" (Richard Thomas) with them. I love it but I always need a box of kleenex beside me when I watch it... bucket of tears no matter how many times I see it!

Homemaker, glad you still have your home! You hear so many stories this time of year about fires.

Spot, you must be getting your strength back, with that big breakfast that you planned. Blessings to you and everyone today!

Miss Peggy
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47675: Hi All.
Will it look like some of us are in a cold.
Will git my flu short for the year and now hewant me to have more blood worke done befor I come back.
I will e-mail Mav tonight and see why she have ben here.
She may being working day grooming all the pet for this holidays and all who are going out of city what pet.
I just can not git into this holidays why I do not no.
It ben that way for years.
LOVE TOM.

December 08, 2006 - Msg 47676:
Boo-I didn't mean to ignore your post, yes I really liked "Twelve Angry Men." One night a while back we watched the original and then they played the newer version with Tony Danza. The original was better but the one with Danza it was good also.
Jeane Kirkpatrick was a Reagan Conservative. She was also the first female UN Ambassador from the United States, a staunch anti-Communist.

Sterling-OK! You wisenheimer. Prayers go out to ya buddy.

APB Where have all the Reverends gone? Rev, Rev Jr. and Irishter. Would love to hear from you guys. I really enjoyed and looked forward to your posts.

colt-If you stop by and read every now and again, Howdy.

auh2o
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47677: Good evening, all. I spent the day with my best buddy, Eloise. We shopped, and had lunch, then she got a manicure, and I got a pedicure. I got little snowmen painted on my big toes! Why? 'Cause it's fun, that's why! As the tiny Asian girl said to me several years ago when she talked me into letting her put a flower on each toe, "When you see your toes, you will smile." Now I ask you, does one need a better reason than that? Trust me, at that time, I needed a reason to smile, and I've just kept up the tradition. Flowers all year, but snowmen in December. It's fun.

My living room no longer looks like Hobby Lobby exploded, so I'm getting there. The tree is finished, the big wreath is hung above the fireplace (after I teetered on a 6-ft ladder), Snowman Row is complete on the mantelpiece, the living room is vacuumed, most of the non-Christmas decor stuff is put away and my little Christmas sit-arounds are in place, lots of candles are ready to light. Mostly I have to get the Nativity displayed and clean up the kitchen. My Nativity takes time, as I'm very particular with the placement and lighting. I don't do it hurriedly, so tomorrow will be the day, when I have time to do it right. Now, my next project is to get a respectable outdoor Nativity display set up. I think I said earlier that I had lighted angels, but they've fallen into disrepair, and I've put them into the attic. I have an idea what I want to do, but need to find just the right thing. I'll be looking, or will get a friend to build something. It was really embarrassing when I realized that my outdoor display is entirely secular. Gotta fix that!

Well, off I go. I'm ready for some leftover whatever, and a big glass of tea. Mostly the tea. Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47678:
Sterling -neat nativity scene.
Boo- I love that old plastic santa!
RO- did you get the two pics of my display?
Everyone old and new: GO TO:
romeena dot myphotoalbum dot com
and then to the porchster album and then to sub album Christmas! Great stuff!
Prayers continue for Colt and all missing porch sitters. I'll try mrs colt again this weekend.
ASA- did i see you driving with lettuce in your backseat again??? Really, you youngster sppeding on those backroads! ha
MDC

December 08, 2006 - Msg 47679: Thanks MDC, I love the plastic Santa, too. I always have my eyes open for vintage christmas decorations. I have some neat stuff packed away, too. I'll tell you something funny about one of my pictures in Ro's album. In the one that shows a little, smiling snowman, you can see me in the gold glass ball to the left in the picture. You can't see my head but you can see me in a red robe holding the camera!

Boy, it's 38 degree here and was sleeting all evening. We were out in it and the sunday school class went and sang carols at the local nursing home. It was so sweet.

Glad you got most of your decorating done, Romeena. Too bad Sterling can's come over and build you a manger for outside. I think he did a real nice job (nice....real nice).

Auh2o, I didn't know there was a newer version of 12 Angry Men. I'll have to look for it. What part did Tony Danza play in the movie?

Well, think I will relax and watch an old Jimmy Stewart movie I found at the dollar store. I watched the George C Scott version of Christmas Carol today and enjoyed it, as usual.

Hey to Miss Peggy and to TOM.

Boo
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47680: Well hello porch....I've been away from my rocker for a few days. Missed you folks.
Hope everyone is doing well. Haven't had a chance to read the archives. Cold here too. Mid-teens tonight....brrrrr! I agree with Tom...that's too cold for me. Just crank up the heater, stay inside and watch TAGS DVDs.
Even though I haven't been here for a while, you all have been in my prayers.
-REV.
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47681: Good evening, all. Yep, MDC, I got those pics. They were in today's mail, which I just got around to opening. I'll scan them in, and they'll be in the album before I turn in tonight. Thanks for the SASE, will get them back to you tomorrow, and I won't forget to get the last one out of the scanner like I did last time - thanks for the reminder! I've done that twice, actually. Must be I'm no spring chicken anymore, ya think?

Boo, you're right about the Christmas morning scene in the George C. Scott version of Scrooge. There was just such exhilaration, actually you phrased it best - just gleeful! You could just feel his relief, and his joy at being given another chance. I still can't choose a favorite, but that version comes very close. Of course, I've always been a Scott fan. A consummate actor, that man.

I, too, wish Sterling could come and build me a Nativity shelter. The figures I'll need to find somewhere, I guess, but will still need the stable part. Probably the idea I have for a scene won't happen this year - not enough time - but it's something I can work on for next year. I want a traditional manger scene, with Mary and Joseph, and of course the baby Jesus, and perhaps a shepherd or two, but I'd also like to have a figure of Santa, hat in hand, kneeling at the manger. Some might at first see that as sacrilege, but in my mind it represents the commercialism we've allowed to exist, brought to its knees at the feet of the real meaning of the day. I had the scene in ceramics, tabletop size, had stained it myself and it was pretty (pardon my pride), pretty enough that a friend begged me out of it, and then I couldn't find the greenware anymore to make another one for myself. Maybe I'll look again.

Rev, it's good to see you back on the porch. How was the tour? Sure do wish I could have made it to a service while you were in this area. Please let me know anytime you're near Dallas, and I'll try to attend. I'll be the one wearing earrings. (teehee)

Well, guess I'll get those pictures scanned and posted, and then hit the ironing board. Tomorrow is another day! Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 08, 2006 - Msg 47682: OK, MDC's pictures are in the album, and folks, you've got to see them! Cute as can be, but doesn't back off from the message. --Romeena
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47683: Mornin' Dears & Honeys! Brr! Very Cold here in SC this morning. My Southern blood isn't used to 20 and below! Looks like most of the country is in a deep freeze and like Calvin Coolidge said: "nobody does anything about the weather" so I guess we'll just have to put up with it.
I'll have to make time to check out the additions to Ro's album. I'll try to send some pics of Laci at Christmas as well.
Haven't seen Millie lately- check in when you can,ok?
Hey to Rev! Been thinking about your neck of the woods a lot recently- we used to go to my Nana's house in Saluda every Christmas.Always went through Prosperity.Good memories!
Well,I'm an early bird,er possum,so I'm gonna try and get some things done around here so I can relax later today. Y'all have a good day!
Prayers for homemaker.
Thinking of ol' pappa bear (colt)-we miss you friend.
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
P.S. Coffee & Krispy Kremes for all! That sugar will jolt ya awake for sure!
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47684: How cute, MDC! I love the verse you used, and it's certainly big enough to get someone's attention...good job. We only have a single string of lights on the roof of mom's house right now but after the house is built, I want to have a nativity in the yard.

Well, I don't know about our trip to Colorado. Sean seems to be coming down with something. He has a virus of some kind, darn it!

Better go get something done..

Boo
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47685: Hey Possum, we haven't had Krispy Kremes here on the porch in a long time, thanks.

Boo
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47686: Hey Porch!

It's been way yonder too long since I have posted. I have been busy, but I know all you good folks are too, so that's no excuse. I hope y'all will just forgive me...

Last night, the family and I went to see a "Living Christmas Story" at a local church. It was quite nice, they had 12 "scenes" such as the nativity, the last supper, the empty tomb, etc. It was all done with people acting it out as you drove by in your car. They gave out CD's or casettes to narrate the scenes as you drove through. There were live camels, sheep, donkeys, even a llama! It was really well done, but unfortunately, they had a much bigger turnout than they anticipated. The show itself takes about a half hour to drive through, but there was a 4 hour wait to get in to see it! My 9 year old goes to the school that is hosted by the church, so we really had no choice but to make the best of it. He would have been crushed if he wasn't able to see it. Only 3 cars got in after us, and then the police had to send all the waiting cars home. Some of them had been waiting 2 hours already! I will tell you, however, with all that I do this time of year, if I don't have 4 and a half hours to remind myself of the reason for the season, then shame on me!

It's been awful nice visiting with you folks again! Romeena, I like your idea of Santa kneeling at the nativity scene!

Have a wonderful Mayberry Evening all!

Mary Wiggins
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47687: Yes, Possum, thanks for the Krispy Kremes. I love the ones here on the porch, because I can eat all I want and they don't affect my blood sugar at all!

Been stuck here at this desk all the livelong day, and I've had about enough. Paying bills, juggling accounts and trying to figure out how to make ends meet. If I don't get that house rented soon, I don't know what I'm going to do. It's really not a good rent house - too nice, too expensive. I've considered selling it and reinvesting the proceeds into two smaller houses, but not here in this town. My friend owns 8 rentals, all moderate price range, and three are empty, not even getting any calls on them. Because of the changing demographics around here (read: illegals) people are just not moving into this town anymore, at least not people who could afford to rent these houses. Oh, they can come up with the rent, but they'll have 15-20 people living in one small 3-bedroom house. Imagine the damage. My friend had to evict one crowd for non-payment of rent, the house was trashed, and she found broken-down old cots set up in the largest closet. They had been using it for a bedroom! She evicted another group, after complaints from neighbors. The activity around the house indicated it might have been in use as a way-station for transporting illegals.

You may have read about the measures Farmers Branch is taking - a nearby suburb. They have declared English as the official language of the city, have removed the Spanish translations from all legal documents and signage, and have made it a prosecutable offense to knowingly rent a property to, or employ, any illegal alien. "Knowingly" is not the loophole you might think, either, as they have declared it the responsibility of the landlord or employer to verify the status of applicants. In other words, in Farmers Branch, the word is - Illegals, stay out! Seems very harsh, but until you have lived in the mess that the invasion is creating, you can't hope to understand it. Oh, well, enough of that.

Who's cooking tonight? I'm too tired to go anywhere, would somebody please just bring me a plate? I'll do the same for you one day. Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47688: Well, I do declare! Mary Wiggins, it's so good to see you. Please don't wait so long between visits. And please don't forget, I want another of Pat's paintings. I'd love to see some examples of his latest works - anything since the ones I already have. A brochure, a digital photo by email, anything so I can get an idea of what he has available. I just love his work! --Romeena
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47689: Afternoon Porch,
I'm not sure of the weather since I haven't been outside all day. I'm glad to be home. My laundry, dishes, and wrapping are done. Bryan's been out with Nick all day and Bryson's with his friend. So, for once life is a little peaceful.
Boo- I do hope you can go to Colorado. I have double ear and sinus infections myself right now. Give him plenty of vitamin C (EmergenC is the best), zinc, and echinasea. One thing we've learned is to cut the carbs when sick. Give him lots of protein. Protein heals the body.
Mary Wiggins- You need to come back more often!
Possum- Thanks for ruining my diet, ha! I'll take hot cocoa instead of coffee though.
Romeena- I too like the Santa idea. Maybe you should consider selling the house. I know it has meaning to you, but if you can't make ends meet then maybe you should pray about it.
Sterling- I like your nativity.
MDC- I like your Peanut characters. I showed Bryson and he liked them also.
Mary Wiggins- You go girl!
A Happy Nut- I loved Shop around the corner and To kill a mockingbird. Those are both classics. You've got mail is a modern version of Shop around the corner.
Homemaker- We've all had those weeks. I pray the coming week is better for you! I saw the Christmas card and it was great. Hubby didn't think the actors were stellar, but the concept was sweet.
Auh20- I don't remember The Homecoming. Who's in it and what is it about?
Sterling- Prayers are for you my friend.
Miss Peggy- I cannot watch any of those in the Richard Paul Evans series. They just kill me! I read the books and just sobbed!
Rev- Good to hear from you!
I'm not sure who mentioned this a few days ago, but I just finished watching Christmas Carol from 1951. I agree that it is now my fave Christmas carol movie, although the goofy one with Bill Murray is a bit funny. It depends on your mood.
Well, I think my christmas cards are calling. Hey to Spot, Big Maude, Goober, Tom, Charlotte, Millie, and all. Stay warm!
Have a wonderful day!
Blessings to you and yours,
~Lucy
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47690: Romeena- My husband deleted your email with your address. Can you please resend it to a1healthataoldotcom? Thank you!
~Lucy
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47691: Lucy, who's Richard Paul Evans?

Miss Peggy
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47692: Done, Lucy. You should have it by now.

I just came in from the back yard, and my fingers are like frozen lead. I went out there to put out critter feed, then realized that the fountain was running very slowly in the pond, which means that the pre-filter is clogged. Also found that the whole pond was full of fallen leaves, which had to be netted out before they start to decompose. Did that, then tackled that filter. My friends, I cannot tell you how cold that water is. How on earth those little fish live in that icy stuff, I don't know, but they do. My hands were only in it for a minute or so, while I reconnected the lines after removing and cleaning the filter, but I thought my fingers were going to fall off. Brrr!

Funny story - as I netted huge clumps of leaves out and dumped them in the grass, I noticed that one of the leaves was a very bright gold color and was moving! Yep, a nosy little fish had gotten caught up in a netful of leaves, and suddenly found himself trying to swim in grass! I picked him up and dropped him back in the pond, and he darted away, no doubt to tell his friends about his big adventure and to warn them about the net monster. And yes, I went back to each clump I had dumped on the lawn and made sure there were no more strays. Silly little fish.

Well, guess I'll round up some dinner. I was going to go out, but my friend can't go, so I think I'll just bake a potato and be done with it. That and a bowl of soup will make a pretty good meal. Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47693: Hello everyone! Just dropped by to rock for a minute, too cold to stay much longer than that unless someone will build a big bonfire. Been so busy with grooming puppies (Tom was sure right on that one) I hardly have time to myself anymore, BUT, that is only because of the holiday, afterward will slow down for me (I hope) I'll tell you, sure has been a strange week for me. First, I head out to work on Tues, late because that rotten Bull Terrier, Feather, stopped in front of me with one of my slippers in her mouth, barking at me to notice, it was muffled cause she was barking while still holding the slipper, took me 15 minutes to rescue that slipper, of course, I ran late the rest of the day. Then on Wed, I got out of the house on time, but the first dog I went to do is normally a clip, that day she decided she wanted it hand scissored since it was getting cold, I didn't schedule extra time for that & ran behind from then on out, next lady... 84 years old, has her 82 y/o sister visiting with her, she had a dr. appt. so she decided SHE wanted to take a bath before I bathed the dog, any of you that have dealt with the elderly know, there was no use in me arguing with her about how it would be better, time wise to let me do the dog first. Well anyway, 35 minutes later, she yells for me to come here quick, I go back toward the bathroom & there she stands, buck naked, dripping wet, asking me to get her a towel please!! I almost fell out trying to keep a straight face! She is very sweet, but I tell ya, I feel like a babysitter when I go there. I was almost afraid to start the day on Thurs, but it went pretty well. Friday, I got bit & scratched doing a new Pomeranian & felt like I had been run over by a truck by the time the week ended. So, there ya go, the run down of Wonder what *Mavis has been up to? for ya'll. Bet yer glad you asked ain't ya? teehee
*Mavis
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47694: Oh and NOW I think I am getting the flu. Don't need that with my upcoming schedule.
*Mavis
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47695: Hey folks, I updated my grooming blog, ya'll check it out & see Poochie, the Poodle I colored green for Christmas.

http://groomerang.blogspot.com/

not gonna try to make a link, too tired tonight. Ya'll have to get there the old fashioned way.
*Mavis
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47696: Hi All.
Mavis I was just guessing that what you was doning wine you are not here.
I was going to called and tell you that everyone was looking for you.
Now where is mill.
Maybe someone will have to found her what the cold weather that came pass her.
tom
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47697: Sounds like a real interesting week, Mavis..heehee! Hope you don't have the flu. Remember, fluids and rest.

Boo
December 09, 2006 - Msg 47698:
Hello porch family....pray that all is well with everyone.
Ro...the tour went great. And yes I too wish you could have made it to one of the concerts but maybe next year. I just got back from Florida this past week and I go to Tennessee this coming week. But then I'm home for the Christmas season! Don't leave back out till the first of January.

Still cold here. Got down to 18 this morning. That's COLD for us here in SC.

Possum....yep...Saluda is just right up the road. Not far at all.

Boo...prayers for Sean. Hope you are able to make your trip.

Lucy...pray you feeling better too.

How is Millie doing?

Spot must be busy today. Ya'll come on over to Texas Roadhouse on my treat. Think I'll have a grill chicken ceasar salad with a baked sweet tater...mmmmmmm good!

Prayers for you all.
-REV.
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47699: Mercy, Mavis! You did have an interesting week. And oh yes, I do know what you mean about there being no point in trying to hurry the elderly, or change them from the direction they want to go. You might as well talk to the wind. After 17 years up on the medical floors, with over half of our census being elderly, I know very well what you were up against. Now I'm with younger women, but since they've just delivered a baby, they're not moving too quickly either. I seem destined to stand around waiting on somebody to potty, or wash their hands or whatever, while listening to phones and call bells ringing at the desk and no one there to answer. Oh, well.

Boo, I just realized I had failed to rotate one of your Christmas pictures, so the little figure was lying on his side. He's standing upright now. You do have the most charming ornaments.

Well, guess I'll hit the hay. Preaching comes early in the morning, and being elderly myself, I'll be moving a bit slowly, no doubt! Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47700: Good Sabbath, porch. Thanks for asking about me. I've been sick for the last few days(chemo was wednesday) and haven't visited with y'all.
Mavis, so good to hear from you! You too, Rev! Been missing y'all.
I enjoyed the oics in Ro's album. Thanks for the smile.
Well, I'm up early to try to be presentable for church....it's getting tough. I did get my new hair yesterday, so that'll help. And lots of makeup. And earrings....gotta have the earrings, right?
I'll check back later, and lunch is on me. Menu later...
Millie
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47701: Bless you, Millie. I was sitting here with my aching joints, feeling a bit tired and giving serious consideration to going back to bed and skipping church this morning. Then I read your post. No question, I'll get to church this morning. How could I do otherwise? --Romeena

P.S. I'll be wearing earrings, too.
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47702: Hey Millie, figured you might be under the weather the last few days, we've been thinking about you. Glad you got your new hair. What color is it?

Thanks, Ro, I am kind of a collector of ornaments.

Boo
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47703: Gooid Sabbath yall...Church was great...Rev I will take you up on that Roadhouse...but Im going big Steak and tater!...thousand Island please on my salad...mushrooms...tea...hey bboo,ro,Tom,lucy,mil,peggy,mavis,auh20,hm,m-t,mdc,md,horatio,fg,possum and all the gang...gona be a nice one today here in ga...about 50 for a high i think...think the kids and i are gona hit the walmart for some shopping....My Dad will be 75 tomorrow...happy b-day dad!..he is in great health and a worker!..think i will take him to apple-b"s for lunch tomorrow..yall come...mil will you bake a cake for him?...big maude you can sneak some slaw in the place!...he dont hanker for places like that but will just have to make an exception!...well let me let Otis out to run...prayers ....see yall at Road house on Rev!..prayers...SPOT
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47704: Spot.....baked your dad a big chocolate layer cake, and one for the porch. Lunch is roast beef, roasted new potatoes and gravy, green bean casserole, salad, parkerhouse rolls. Y'all eat up!
I made through all of the forst service this morning, what a blessing to be there.
Forgot to tell y'all, Skippy had her new grandbaby this week, early, but all is ok. Prayers for her family.
Boo, my new hair is kind of light brown with highlights. I'm actually surprised at how good it looks. I need to work on faking the eyebrows and lashes, though. I'll try to get a pic to Ro of me and the kids by the tree.
Have to go get some laundry done, it's really piled up. See ya in a bit.
Millie
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47705:
Hello porch family.
Pray you all had a great worship service today.

OK....I hate to ask this again but I had to do an update with microsoft and I lost all my sites in my "favorites" list. So could someone please give me Ro's photo album site again.... PLEASE... thank you!
-REV.
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47706: It's romeenadotmyphotoalbumdotcom, Rev.
Mil
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47707: Afternoon all. Wish we could all be with you Millie to lend a hand with your laundry and anything else that needs doing. Your faith is truly an inspiration! God bless and keep you!

Boo, have you decided about the trip? Praying you'll have peace one way or another.

Miss Peggy
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47708: Well Miss Peggy, we found out yesterday that the radiator in the Suburban has a hole in it (the heater in the back wasn't working so we took it in and found THAT out). Bruce is sick with a cold now and Sean seems fine! I went to WalMart and got that Emergen-C that Lucy mentioned and stocked up on orange juice. The car won't be ready until tomorrow so we might still go on Tuesday, who knows?! ha I am trying not to get sick in the mean time.

Glad you made it through the service, Millie. I, like Romeena, was not planning on going to church this morning because I already had someone taking over my Sunday school class and I thought Sean would be sick this morning. After I read your post, Sean came in the room and said he felt fine and wanted to go to church. So, we went and I am so glad we did. It was a beautiful service. The church looked wonderful with the lights, candles and decorations and it was just a special time. Thanks for being an example without realizing it! ha The hair sounds nice. My hair is kind of a light brown/blonde highlights....seems we always have things in common, doesn't it? I wish you would send a picture to Ro. I will if you will....and I am afraid my picture might scare somebody.

Better go...got the Ladie's ornament exchange and party tonight at church. It is always fun because we do the Chinese Christmas exchange thing and a few fights usually break out (kidding of course...well, sort of).

Boo
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47709: Oh, almost forgot, I want to ask my porch friends to send up a prayer for my good friend Connie. She has had thyroid cancer in the past and has a strong family history of cancer. She is having some symptoms that might be breast cancer and she is really worried. She is a wonderful Christian woman and heads up everything in the ladie's ministries at church. She doesn't want to be put on the church prayer list just yet, I don't think, so I am giving this request to all of you. Please pray for her peace, and her husband's. They have been through alot already, and pray for healing. Thank you so much! Love you all,

Boo
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47710: Oh, and one more thing...this is an answer to prayer. I wanted to give you all an update on Keith (who's wife Linda recently died from lung disease). The Sunday after Linda passed away, Keith was in church and has been every Sunday since. To be around him you would never know what he was going through. He is always there with a hug and a big smile and is willing to talk about how he is doing. God bless him, he is such an example of God's grace.

Boo
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47711: Good afternoon, all. Millie, I shared my little wake-up experience this morning with my SS department, and we prayed for you. Ditto my SS class, more prayers.

Wow, the eyebrows and lashes too? The chemo you're taking must really pack a wallop. I lost most of my hair in 1979, though not quite all, and also kept my brows and lashes. My hair came back thicker than ever, and with more wave than it ever had. Well, there's always false eyelashes, and I guess you can pencil the brows on. My aunt always did. She had almost no eyebrows, and never took chemo in her life, she just didn't have any!

I had to get a new cordless phone. My old one, a Sony that was nearly 30 years old, finally quit. Sure hated to lose it, it was better than the new model, but I guess I'll get used to it.

Well, daggone it. The pond is covered with leaves once again, and the trees are nowhere near finished shedding. I wish they'd get it done, so I can clean up around here and be done with it. What we need is a good strong wind tonight, that would probably clear them off.

Well, gotta go finish the last touches on decorating, then that's that! Just sit back and enjoy it, I guess. Wish my sweetie was here to tell me how pretty it looks, and to enjoy it with me. He always praised anything I did, no matter how feeble my efforts might have been. Sure do miss him! Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47712:
Ro, are the deacons taking you to dinner this year? thanks for posting my pics. Charlie Brown is on the far right.
God made fish with oily scales and coldblooded, plus it is usually warmer near the bottom. Ice fisheman say the ice actually insulates too. Wonderful creator, our God!
Boo- Is one of your Goodyear Albums the one with Lou Rawls? Always liked his Christmas "drawls"! ha.
Make up some Progresso minestronie soup, add actual oregano from the spice rack for Bruce and Sean, plenty of C, that will knock it out of them!Good to see Mary, Millie, Mavis etc!
God bless!
MDC

December 10, 2006 - Msg 47713: No, MDC, I was invited, but have to work that night. I'm sorry, because it's always a lovely evening. The fellowship hall will be beautifully decorated, the food will be wonderful, there will be some very good entertainment, probably homegrown but that's the best kind, and it will be very nice. I wish I could go, but somebody has to help keep the hospital open. I'm having to miss our SS department Christmas party as well, also because I have to work.

Well, gotta finish up a few decorating details, then will probably make a fire in the fireplace, and cuddle up with the Plum to watch a Christmas movie. I have many from which to choose, hmmm, which shall it be? Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47714: Ok, ok, MDC...I'll make sure we get some Oregano this time. Thanks!...as far as the Goodyear album goes, I don't think there is any Lou Rawls. The youngest album is about 1972, I think. When did Lou Rawls come on the scene?

Ro, when you post some pics of your external illumination, we will "oooo.." and "ahhhh..". It won't be the same as your Sweetie but we will love seeing it, too.

I don't think we will be having our deacon thing this year. The deacon chairman is kind of involved in other things and I don't think he will get anything together. I could be wrong, but I will be surprised. It's too bad because we have 2 widows who really enjoy it. If I don't go to Colorado, I will try to make sure it gets done somehow.

Boo
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47715: Hi All.
I was looking over so post in the archives and came across one from smokey mtn hillbilly it was the one about a solder at christmas time. (msg 32308 12-21-05)
Floyd how about the story from 1997 for all the new comming that have not heard it.
Ro- you are doing a goo job what the album.

love tom

December 10, 2006 - Msg 47716: Well, forget the outdoor illumination for tonight. I had planned to get some pictures, but we had some rain, I apparently still have a couple of connections that aren't waterproof, and it keeps tripping the GFCI. I have three main power sources with timers out back, so I unplugged one set and reset the GFCI. Tripped again. Unplugged another one, reset the GFCI. It's still on, so now I know that one or both of the other two are involved. A project for tomorrow, assuming the rain stops. Also just found that at least half of the lights out front are out, so it's looking like a pretty project. I've got to figure out a way to waterproof those connections. Duct tape helps, but doesn't always solve the problem. I tried wrapping them in plastic, then duct taping the plastic on the cords, but condensation formed inside the plastic and caused the same problem. I think I'll visit Lowe's tomorrow and see what's available.

Well, guess I'll go scratch up something to eat. Got some asparagus baking (it's delicious that way), and some salad greens, and a little piece of beef to stick under the broiler. Not too shabby. Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47717: Thanks, Tom. I'm glad you're enjoying it. --Romeena
December 10, 2006 - Msg 47718: Hello everyone.

To Romeena Msg 47687, regarding your unrented house, from what you have indicated about the changing demographics, I think it's time to cut your loses, sell the property, and invest elsewhere. The longer you wait, the more you will lose. Or if you can find something now that you would like to own, the seller might agree to an exchange.

To Mary Wiggins Msg 47686, a welcome back to you. How long have you been missing?

To Millie Msg 47700, in your honor, I also wore earings to church.

To someone who earlier asked about Boxing Day, here is the explanation. This is an official holidagy celebrated in Canada, the United Kingdom, and other commonwealth nations on December 26. During feudal times, servants and other tradespeople had to work on Christmas Day to serve their more affluent masters. In return, servants and tradespeople got the next day to celebrate with their own families. Their masters would provide them with practical mechandise or clothing in boxes. But today, merchants take advantage of this day to sell at a discount everything that didn't sell before Christmas. In fact, some merchants have extended Boxing Day in Boxing Week. However, only December 26 is the official holiday when most workers are off from work.

Some favorite movies of mine include:
It's A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World
How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying
Funny Girl

To Tom Msg 47715, how strange it was for you to post about that Marine's poem that was posted here last year. I have been watching Public Broadcasting in the past few days during their pledge drive. They have been showing the Victory At Sea movies. Although I have seen them many times, and I always cry at the end even though I know how the war turns out. To actually see the horrible conditions are troops had to endure to ensure our freedom. God bless them all.
Tom, are you asking Floyd to post that poem again? If so, I could do it.

To Romeena Msg 47716, convert a plastic bag into an umbrella to solve your problem. Obtain a plastic bag without any holes or tears. Tear a small hole in the bottom of the plastic bag. Slide the bag upside down over your cable to completely cover the electrical connection. Dress or hook the wire so that the electrical connection hangs vertically and the plastic bag is upside down. Using electrical or duct tape, wrap the end of the plastic bag tightly above the connectors. Leave the remaining portion of the plastic bag to droop down and cover the electrical connection. Pull the open end of the plastic bag down and past the electrical connection. With the cable mounted vertically, gravity will make the water slide down the cable, over the tightly taped top end, down the sides of the plastic bag that are protecting the electrical connection, and drip off the open bottom of the plastic bag that will prevent condensation. I used this trick to keep electrical wire connections dry during Professional Football games and Christmas parades that we used to broadcast.

from Poor Horatio

December 10, 2006 - Msg 47719: Thanks, PH, I can envision exactly what you're talking about, and agree that it will work. I've also thought about getting some hollow rubber balls, about 4" in diameter, and cutting a slit in them, large enough to pop open to admit the connection, and the business end of one of those little light holders, the kind you use for lights outlining the yard or whatever. The ball would then close back up over the wires and the shank of the light holder, the end of the holder would be stuck into the ground, which would result in the connection being held above ground with the slit portion of the ball on the downside. I think that would work also. What I can't figure out is why some genius hasn't developed a little case for the connections, with holes at the ends for the wires to extend through after the case is snapped shut, and with a rubber gasket lining all points of contact. I'd buy them, probably at least 12-15 of them. I'm a sucker for gadgets anyway, and one that actually serves a useful purpose would catch me every time. Those quick-connect thingies for the garden hose connections? Can't live without 'em. Sure makes reconnecting things in the pond a lot easier.

I use power posts a lot with the Christmas lights, and solved the water problem with them by inverting small plastic buckets over them. Works perfectly. I wonder if they're thinking under there?

At this moment, the two transformers for the underwater lights in the fishpond are protected from rain and the sprinklers by an inverted plastic shoebox! It had to be something clear, because the transformers have photo sensors that turn the lights on at dusk. A few weeks ago, I noticed that the lights were staying on all day, and investigated. Guess what. Fireants had built a mound inside the box, covering the photo cells! I made short work of them, and put enough ant killer around the transformers to keep them from coming back. Villains. I just despise them, though one does have to admire their tenacity.

Well, I'm off to bed. A dear friend is having major surgery tomorrow, for a perforated colon and we don't know yet what time it's to be! So, I'll probably spend most of the day up there, come home and put on my white monkey suit, and go back to the hospital and go to work. Yuck.

Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena