December 14, 2006 - Msg 47799: Good Afternoon Friends,
This sure is some strange weather we're having. First, it's freezing and now it's supposed to be 70 today! I really wish it was cold just until New Year's and then the 70's can come back.
Fungirl- Prayers for funmom. It is the wrong time of year to feel puny.
Big Maude- Have fun at the game. I'm not sure which day you're coming, but if it is Friday try to make sure you're not getting into Atl from 2:30-7. That's when the rush hour is on Friday's. Crazy, huh? If you want email me at a1healthataoldotcom for my number in case you get into trouble.
Floyd- Happy Belated Birthday! Thank you for all you do for us to chat.
MDC- I like your song!
Homemaker- I hope your team wins. Blimpie's are good subs!
Skippy- I'm glad that Aiden is coming home soon. Bryson was a preemie also (36 wks, 6lb,-dropped to 5lbs 7oz) he's still a little thin (20% at 8yrs) but other than that he's great.
Possum- Prayers for little Laci. She's such a pretty little girl. My cousin recently adopted a little girl and she had RSV. She recovered well.
Asa, Auh20, M-T- I don't want the village people raising my kids, ha! Although, Nick does want to be a policeman!
On our homefront, remember my problem with Nick having a girlfriend at age 12? Well, the girlfriend's parents found the expensive bracelet Nick bought her and made her feel guilty for going behind their backs. So, she dumped him yesterday. He was heartbroken. Although 7 girls want to "go out" with him now. Hubby and I decided that he needs to focus on school and not so much social activity. He currently has a 72 (C-) average and if you get below a C then you automatically fail. So, hubby's going to spend some time talking to him this weekend. The sad thing is that Nick was head-over-heels for this girl and he really and truly thought they were going to get married someday! What the heck has happened to our kids?!
Blessings to you and yours,
~Lucy Matthews
I'm dreaming of a White Christmas!
December 14, 2006 - Msg 47800: hello, does anyone know about this gomer movie that is supposed to be happening? is this real...can it be happening? NATE BRACEY
December 14, 2006 - Msg 47801:
Lucy-Ok, all right, I can take a hint. Clearing throat and .......hmmm,ok and ready!

Young man, there's a place you can go.
I said, young man, when you're short on your dough.
You can stay there, and I'm sure you will find
Many ways to have a good time.

It's fun to stay at the Y-M-C-A!
It's fun to stay at the Y-M-C-A!

auh2o
December 14, 2006 - Msg 47802: Thanks Lucy!! How very kind of you.I will e mail you. Big Maude
December 14, 2006 - Msg 47803: Lucy...were the parents upset enough to have her return the expensive bracelet?
fun girl

December 14, 2006 - Msg 47804: I can't believe that even in the 1970s nobody saw the problem with five grown men playing dress-up and singing about staying at the YMCA or fooling around in the Navy. But, I guess it was a little like my grandmother's heartbreak when it was "revealed" in 1980s that Liberace was more than just eccentric. Naivette has it's charm.

LUCY: I certainly wouldn't let my twelve year-old daughter accept an expensive gift from a boy. Heck, I won't even let my daughter get her ears pierced until she's thirteen.

That reminds me, I don't know if any of you parents out there have experienced this particular cultural dynamic, but what is it with kids' birthday parties? My daughter gets invited to gynmastics parties, parties at Build-A-Bear, etc. These things must set the parents back at least several hundred dollars. What happened to cake, ice cream, and games? We are just not into the one-upmanship. Tomorrow Nora will be attending a classmate's party. Guess where? At a hair salon! Six little six-year-old will be getting there hair and nails done. Is that sick or what? We weren't sure if we were going to let her go but decided to anyway. Normally, we don't allow her to use fingernail polish so she is pretty excited about that. Can you imagine how much this costs, though? Or just what the parents are instilling as important in that child?

Maybe I'm just getting to be a fogey before my time.

Me-They
December 14, 2006 - Msg 47805: I think your signing scared everybody off, AUH2O. Nobody's been on the porch since this morning.

Gomer...Gomer...Gome?

Me-They
December 14, 2006 - Msg 47806: Well, Nate Bracey, Nate Bracey, Nate Bracey! Where on earth have you been? I thought we were going to have to have another class reunion in order to get you to show up. It's good to hear from you. In response to your question, I don't know a thing about that movie, sorry.

Me-They, my husband and I thought we were really going all out for our youngest son's 8th birthday (he's 37 now) at Pennywhistle Park, at $6 per child, which included tickets for the little rides, balloons for each dhild, hotdogs and sodas. We invited five kids, so counting my son, it cost us $36. Believe me, in 1977, on our budget, that was a lot of money. We never did it again, either, mostly because my husband threatened mayhem if I even suggested it.

On the other hand, my mom had one of the burger-and-birthday cake parties for my brother, back in the mid-50's and it was awful. The kids got in a food fight, broke a lawn chair, made fun of the games my mom had planned, and refused to behave, so my father loaded them all into the car and took them home, one by one, and told each parent why he was bring their child home. My brother was mortified, had an asthma attack and went to bed.

No point here, just observations related to both approaches. Personally, I'm pretty much against these things that push adulthood on little kids, or that instill expensive tastes and values in them.

Well, gotta go get a haircut, I'm pretty shaggy. I hope they've plugged up that hole Barney made in the wall at the beauty shop, I'm always afraid some critter is going to come slithering out of there.

Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 14, 2006 - Msg 47807: ROMEENA: My biggest birthday was when my parents took me and a group of friends to the Smithsonian (that's the Smith Brothers Institute to you Mayberrians). It was my first time there and so cool (I was 12, I think). Of course, I now realize that it also was cheap since admission is free. We even had a picnic lunch on the Mall. Pretty smart on the part of my parents, if I do say so.

If they are making a Gomer Pyle movie I've got just one reaction: Shazam!

Y'all have a great evening.

Me-They
December 14, 2006 - Msg 47808: Hey Lucy,ro,bo,m-t...class reunions...whew my 30th will be next year!...hey sugarplum...and all...great weather here in ga...thank you Lord!...70 days 45 nights..no rain in site...well lets meet at Arbys for Roast Beef sandwiches tonight on Asa!....Beef and Cheddar!...curley fries!...well here at work till 6 am...back in just a bit....prayers SPOT
December 14, 2006 - Msg 47809: Hey Y'all. Update on Laci: She had a rough morning,trouble breathing and was almost put in the PICU. She is somewhat better now and may come home in a few days.She's been a sick little girl-had tears in my eyes watching her struggling.Thank you all for the continued prayers.
Well,I'd better go.Been a rough couple of days on this grandmama possum! I'll catch up soon with all the Porch goings-on. Love to all!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
December 14, 2006 - Msg 47810: Possum you can for sure know one thing, this porch is ALL thinking and praying for Laci from the bottom of our hearts...I went back to Ro"s site and looked at her pic again...so cute...SPOT
December 14, 2006 - Msg 47811:
Spot- great grub as usual, thasnks!
Asa- did they change the marque to G-MEN?
Fungirl, dad-burn them little sisters! ha
Homemaker- gotta chop any more wood.?
How's the stock doing these days? All keeping warm I hope.
auh20- the 70's LIVE!
Hillary's government-sponsored village!
Well, ya all have a good evening.
Squeezins and hot choclolate all around.
Good Christmas stories
Me They- invite the Crump board over for some refreshments and caroling!
ole MDC
December 14, 2006 - Msg 47812:
Prayers for Laci and for the hikers on Mt hood too
MDC
December 14, 2006 - Msg 47813: Hi All.
Will it that time that thing do not go right for me.
i AM GITTING SICK OF WATCH THE POLAR EXPRESS AT BEN ON ABOUT 9 TIME THIS MONTHY.
RO- I'm going to send you a pict that I found of sant kneeing in front of tne little baby.

DON'T WORRY
Don't worry about tomorrow,
And what your fate might be
For by the time tomorrow comes
Today's but a memory.
Don't spend your time wondering
If happiness will last;
Think about your life today
For all to soon it's past.
Sometimes sadness comes along
And we seldom realize,
That it was really happiness
Wrapped up in disguise.
So don't fret when skies are gray;
Because in just the blink of an eye-
Tomorrow is yesterday!

DO NOT ORRY ABOUT TOMORROW; TOMORROW WILL TAKE CARE OF ITSELF.


LOVE TOM
PRAYER EVERYONE
December 14, 2006 - Msg 47814: hello porch,
just stoped in for a moment. It has been a long evening with kaylee(granddaughter) son and daughter in law had to spend all afternoon and night at the hospital. Things are alot different since I had my kids. Alot of different requirements. As a premie the baby had to sit in his car seat 4 different times the time length it takes to drive home (1 1/2 hours) and the parents have to be the sole care givers for 24 hours before the baby can come home. My how things have changed. If all goes well tonight my grandson will be home tommorrow!!! I can't wait.

Possum prayers to Laci

Lucy What a bad time of year for a break up.
My 18 yr old son had his girl friend break up with him last week and he has stayed at my house for almost a week. somedays you wonder why they even move out. Our house is busting at the seams between our daughter, the boys, daughter in law and grandkids staying here.As of tommorow there will be 8 people. Then my sister called today and asked if we had room for 2 more this weekend and over the holidays they want to be here on Christmas Eve and Christmas day to be around the kids we will surely be busting...
Skippy

December 15, 2006 - Msg 47815: Morning gang ...hey skippy,Tom,Rev...asa...yall get up!...im headed home at 6 and back at 2 to finish up my 3 day week!..breakfast will be at I-Hop on Asa and I...Horatio will you and Big Maude split the tip?....I will say grace....prayers to my porch family!...I got to get my Cross Pics to you Ro....done took the pics just got to scan and mailhope I remember the mail address...think I do....well see yall ant the Hop!...SPOT
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47816: MDC - I shor do need more wood - ya wannna come and he'p?
homemaker
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47817: Homemaker, I have a lot of wood at my house in the garage that you can have, left over from the previous owner(and some left over from my nativity project;)). We have a fire pit thingy outside, but it is too cold to have a cookout. And we have two fireplaces, but on one the flue thing is broken and the other one is stuffed with insulation, so it doesn't look like we'll be sitting by the fireplace letting chestnuts roast on an open fire this year.

Prayers for all with kid problems today, there seem to be a bunch.

-Sterling Holobyte
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47818: Spot, you good hard-workin' ol' doggie, you need to ask Santa to bring you a digital camera for Christmas. Meantime, I'll look forward to those cross pictures. I'll email you my address.

Cloudy, cool and damp here this morning. Eddie, my trusted yard man, came yesterday and got all the leaves up off the yard, so the neighbors have stopped glaring at me, but there are still some to fall. He'll be back right after Christmas to get the stragglers.

Skippy, what you described is called "rooming in" at our hospital. It's designed, of course, to verify that the baby will be okay out of the hospital and that the parents have sufficient skills and confidence to care for him or her. Robust little full-termers don't require this, but vulnerable little preemies can be a different story. Actually, building the parental confidence is a big part of the procedure. The babies are usually fine, but the parents are so anxious. That little one will come home and do just great, and you will be a good resource for the nervous parents.

Well, gotta go take my car in for routine service. I just love my dealership - oil and filter change, lubrication where needed, and computer diagnostic will cost me $34.95, and it will be washed and vacuumed and wiped down inside at no charge. Meantime, the Plum and I will sit in comfort in the visitor's lounge, where we can get cappucino in a choice of three flavors, and will be served fresh-baked cookies and muffins. If the diagnostic finds anything that needs attention, it will be paid for under warranty and I'll be given a loaner at no charge, for as long as I need it. The loaners are typically nice cars, not some old clunker. In the event that my car breaks down at home or anywhere else and can't be repaired where it is, they send a flat-bed to pick it up, a second driver arrives with a loaner for me, and I go on my way. That dealership is something else! It pays off for them, because I'm now driving my fifth car, purchased from them. Oh, and these aren't new cars, either. I buy them as "certified, pre-owned" cars, they carry a bumper-to-bumper new-car warranty, but I pay about half the price of a new car. Can't beat a deal like that! Barney should go talk to them, instead of buying from old ladies.

Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47819: Sterling - do you deliver? Ha Ha Ha I am sure Asa will come to the rescue and help you haul it - he will do anything for one of my meatballs! hm
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47820: Good morning everyone. My prayers continue for POSSUM's Laci and SKIPPY's grandduaghter.

Thanks for the poem, TOM. As usual, it gives us something to reflect on.

Hey, STERLING. How's Kai doing at school?

MAUDE and ASA: Be sure to leave that waitress and extra quarter!

Me-They
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47821: Mornin' Porch,
Okay, I'm officially a little mad. I don't think it's going to snow for Christmas in Ky this year! I'm so sad!
Fungirl- The girl offered to return the bracelet, but Nick wouldn't take it. It was a $75 bracelet, but he only paid $15. I told him to take it back today. These other girls want it from him now.
Me-They- It's funny you say that. Hubby & I were imagining my stepdaughter (age 11) getting a gold and diamond bracelet and talking about getting married. We were horrified at the thought. Apparently we have a double standard. We realize that now. We can't force him not to "go out" with someone at school, but we can control what goes on in this house. He's completely OCD over these girls here and we're going to put a stop to it. About the birthday parties, so far Bryson's favorites are when my Mom had a party for him at her house and played regular games like pin the tail and such. He didn't like the build a bear one at all. It was a complete waste of money. Most parents don't feel like us though. They want to be popular parents with their kids and their kids friends.
Possum- I pray that Laci continues to get better!
Romeena- Hubby and I were talking last night how our multitude of gifts to the kids is outrageous. We've lost sight of the reason. Nick actually admitted to me yesterday that he really only cares about himself. At least he's honest is all I could say.
Tom- Yes, the polar express is on quite a bit.
As I started writing this I got a call from Bryson's school and he has a headache, dizzy, and 101 degree fever. I have him home and he won't go to bed because he wants to cuddle. I had this yesterday and it went away. We were planning on going to the new Cracker Barrel for dinner tonight since Bryan's at an office party. Oh well, what can ya do when you have a sick kid?
Blessings,
~Lucy
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47822: Sorry hm, but I uphold a strictly "cash and carry" policy. Except without the cash part. But you have to "carry" it yourself. ;)

Kai is doing great in school, Me-They! She loves it. Thanks for asking.

-Sterling Holobyte

December 15, 2006 - Msg 47823: MESSAGE REMOVED
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47824: LUCY: Yeah, it's tough to keep ourselves focused on the true meaning of Christmas much less keep our kids focused. And, for a kid, it must be a mixed message indeed to receieve extravagant gifts while being told that they aren't important. We get the kids three modest gifts plus stocking stuffers. We had to institute a three-gift policy when Nora was very young because we found ourselves "one-moring" every time we shopped. It is hard; you see so many things you'd love to give your kids. (Every year we have to remind the grandparents to limit their generosity--we tell them if they must spoil, do it on their birthadys and not at Christmas--it's a good compromise.) I truly think that when we (parents) have those feelings its more about us then them. We want to experience their pleasure, momentary thrill, and be popular. But we have to remember that it is fleeting. Kids need our love and guidance much more. And, after all, an X-box may be great fun now, but our #1 job is to prepare them for eternity (not fly killin', by the way).

But gosh don't kids make the season so much more real?!

Me-They
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47825: hello how are all of you today i am fine today gizzmo........
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47826: Good thoughts, Me-They. And as far as being popular with their kids, I cringe when I hear about parents who want their kids to think of them as "friends".

Btw, I'll take that X-box if you don't want to give it to your kids.;)

-Sterling Holobyte
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47827: Hi Gizzmo!
-Sterling Holobyte
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47828: Sorry, STERLING, but an X-box costs more than we are spending on all our kids' gifts combined. You'll have to count on Santa...

M-T
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47829: I wish I could say that, Me-They, although I have been able to keep spending down a little this year. I think my wife goes a little nuts at Christmas. When you have so many people to buy for, and the number seems to increase every year, you can't spend $20 per person. One reason I don't care for the commercial side of Christmas. I'm always the "no" person, and that can get tiring.

Yeah, those X-boxes cost an arm and a leg, don't they?! $400.00. That's a lot of candy canes.

-Sterling Holobyte
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47830: Hey romenna
Thanks for the encouragement. My brother has alot of problems and he has neglected his own kids-Then he wonders why they don't call him too often.
Well life goes on. my daughter is doing what she has to do in life and making the right choices for her future.
Ahappynut
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47831: Have a great weekend everyone! And remember, nine shopping days left.

Me-They
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47832: hey Sterling,m-t,Ro dont know if i could work one of those fancy cameras?....well back to work..snack later...SPOT
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47833: "Fancy cameras", Spot? Old doggie, they're just point and shoot. Nothing to them. Easier than film cameras, trust me. I just love mine - got two of 'em, one small one that I can carry easily, one bigger, a bit fancier and more complicated, which I bought to take to Mongolia. Actually, I use my little camera most of the time. They've come waaay down in price, and you can get a really decent one for less than you used to pay for a good film camera. My small one is an Olympus, but Canon makes a good one, too. Believe me, knowing what you do and have done for a living, I know you have to be joking about operating one of these cameras. Try one, you'll love it. --Romeena
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47834:
Yeah Spot, we "got the goods" on ya, seeing you settin' in front of all then new fangled computers at work! ha
RO- I see you are takin' good care of that Caddy!
That is one special dealership!
I'll call you on my onstar phone! haha
Did ya all hear about the lady here who told a valet to watch her son who was sleeping in the car??!! Some people!
LUCY- I hope that JESUS is getting some say in the whole deal too! I know he is, just ribbing you. Me They is right, we really got to hold the line on the materialism, and stand out from the world!
Sterling - sounds like things are pretty good in your life these days. good to hear!
APB for colt, Daphne, Quiet Sam, DIXIE, Mavis, Rev, IRISHster and others.
Party tonight over at Mrs Wiley's social club! Plenty of punch-soaked napkins for refreshments.
Prayers for you all, boo traveling, all our brave soldiers so far away from home. God bless em and protect them!
Good night.
MDC
December 15, 2006 - Msg 47835: Hi All
Will all this warm weather and no snow ,
that not the holiday that I know.
I will not be to happy it the same thing every years.
I can not think of one good holiday that I had in me life time you no wine you do not have the money for a gift that was no fun.
Wined back inb school you are aske want did you git for christma and who have to say not a thing.
So here is that you all git the thing you wanted .
NO I AM NOT ASKING FOR A THING FOR CHRISTMA.

LOVE TOM

SHOUT WITH JOY TO THE LORD, ALL THE
EARTH; BREAK INTO SONG; SING PRAISE.

December 15, 2006 - Msg 47836:
Hello porch family. Just a quick howdy.

MDC...I'm here. Thanks for asking.
I'm up in Tennessee right now. Had a concert tonight.

Spot...I'll treat everyone at IHOP for breakfast so that you won't have to cook.

Prayers for each of you. Have a great nights sleep.
-REV.


December 16, 2006 - Msg 47837: Good Deal Rev...I-Hop it is rooty tooty fresh and fruty..hey there Gizzmo..TOM,ahappynut,sterling,m-t....yall get up....asa lets fo to I-Hop...I will hold the door for the ladys!...great weather here in ga...70 and sunny today...Kelsey [my daughter]are gona ride the 4-wheelers this afternoon and grill out with Miss Sherry and the kids...bby back ribs so yall skip lunch and I will start the smoker early...corn on the cob and baked beans with bacon and big maude slaw....well let me wind things up here at the power company....SPOT
December 16, 2006 - Msg 47838: Good morning, all! Well, hooty-hoo, hooty-hoo! Guess what?? My yard was visited by a little screech owl last night. You may remember that there used to be one, then another came and the pair would come in every evening and perch on the birdbath outside my window. Then one was killed when a very strong wind blew him into the side of the house across the street, and the other never came back. Well, last night, one appeared. I don't know if it's the survivor of the pair, or if it's a newcomer, but whatever, I felt so blessed. He (she?) swooped around in the yard for a while, that's what caught my attention, as he was silhouetted against the lights that illuminate my back fence. He appeared to be chasing insects, though I wasn't aware that owls eat insects. Then he came and perched on the birdbath, remaining there for about half an hour. My binoculars gather a lot of ambient light, so I could see him quite well. I got out my night-scope also, but could see more with the binoculars. Anyway, it's a thrill for me to have that exquisite little creature visit my yard.

Well, off I go. I'm going with friends over to the Eisemann theater, to hear a Christmas concert by the Vocal Majority. One friend's husband sings bass with the VM, so I rarely miss a concert. They're just excellent. Rev, do you know their work? Check out their webpage at www.vocalmajority.com. Highly respected in the music world, winners of all sorts of awards - they're really good.

OK, off I go. Lots to do, and have to leave here in an hour. Spot, don't include me in the count for dinner. Our group will be stopping at Old Whiskers after the concert, for fried catfish and boiled shrimp, all you can eat. Yum!! Do hate to miss those ribs, though. Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 16, 2006 - Msg 47839: Ha! I just looked it up on Google, and screech owls do indeed catch insects on the wing, so guess that's what my little visitor was doing. --Romeena
December 16, 2006 - Msg 47840:
I invited the folks at Miss crump's board to stop by for a little Christmas cheer, so ya all be nice to 'em now ya hear! ha
Actually, that helped to get Mehey to start posting here last year, so maybe we'll get a few more.
In mayor's absence, I will be getting the brown tready for its Christmas run!
more later!
MDC
December 16, 2006 - Msg 47841: Well everyone,it sure has been a mild winter here in Wis.Forcasters up here think we may not have snow for Christmas! I'm not one who likes to shovel the stuff,but to me Christmas just don't seem like Christmas with out the white stuff!Hope
you all have a Merry Christmas and don't forget to say a few prayers for the men and women who I fighting for our security! I don't always believe in supporting every war we get involed in but I do believe in supporting our Troops!Brian
December 16, 2006 - Msg 47842: Just wanted y'all to know that Laci has pretty much nipped that nasty RSV in the bud and may come home tomorrow!!!
Yippee!!!
P.S. I borrowed some exclamation points from Barnwannabe-think he'll mind? :)
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
December 16, 2006 - Msg 47843: I don't think he'll mind one bit, Possum. After all, they were used in a good cause! --Romeena
December 16, 2006 - Msg 47844: Yep, MDC, I take very good care of my car. Next to my home, it's the biggest investment I make (not that a car is an investment, but you know what I mean), so I believe in proper maintenance. My dealership makes it easy and pleasant, so why not? --Romeena
December 17, 2006 - Msg 47845: Hooray for Laci and praises for He who healed her. That is great news Possum. Makes my heart happy to hear.

Asa
December 17, 2006 - Msg 47846: Possum, I am so glad Luci is doing well and coming home soon.
Brian, I suport our troops all the time as I have 3 in the service. Thanks for your suport.
Aiden came home and is doing well and cute as a button.
Well got to go as I have to put the tree up today and decorate. Better late than never. But with all the kids home it should go fast.
Skippy
December 17, 2006 - Msg 47847:
Just time for a quick hello today. Thanks Brian for visiting from Miss Crumps.
Well, gotta get my cards done and a few last touches on the inside decs!
Good Sabbath to you all.
Praise the Lord,
MDC
December 17, 2006 - Msg 47848: My friends, I need your help. You will remember that on two occasions, I've gone on mission trips to Mongolia, where we worked closely with an American missionary and his wife, who operate a children's home that currently has over 80 children in residence, and who grow food in large greenhouses and feed not only their own organization, but much of the little nearby town as well. They also employ many locals, paying a wage that is a lifeline for those folks.
They are in residence in Houston at the moment, visiting churches and enlisting financial and manpower support. Susan, the missionary's wife, is very ill, with what is feared to be ovarian cancer. Since they are not affiliated with an organized mission board, they do not have health insurance. That needs to be fixed, but that's another story. Right now, the need is for prayer for Susan's health and Jerry's strength. They are to see a specialist tomorrow morning, and plans will be made for surgery and treatment. Please pray for these good people. They have sacrificed so much for that mission over there, taking only subsistence income for themselves, putting every available penny into the work. Thus, no insurance. A surgeon has offered to operate pro bono, and they're trying to get her into Ben Taub, the county hospital in Houston to minimize the cost. However, since their principal residence is in Mongolia, they're hitting roadblocks there. American citizens, but can't get care. That, too, is another story. For now, please pray for a good outcome for Susan.

You can follow her progress at CarePages.com. Just register (it's free) and her page is entitled SusanJerry. Click there, and you'll find updates on her condition, pictures from Mongolia, and messages posted by friends. You can leave a word of encouragement, too, if you'd like. Thank you, friends. Sugarplum says please pray! --Romeena
December 17, 2006 - Msg 47849: This is Little Leon from the Bulletin Board just stopping to say hi. Sure is weird weather for December but Happy Holidays to one & all
December 17, 2006 - Msg 47850:
Hello porch
Welcome Little Leon..good to have you.

Ro...Nope, I haven't heard of the VM. I'll have to check out the site.

I'll be back a little later. Be blessed!
-REV.
December 17, 2006 - Msg 47851: Evening everyone! Haven't had time to sit on the porch lately. With Christmas getting closer and company coming, I'm feeling the pressure.
Romeena, I will certainly pray for your missionary friends. I know that the Lord will work out every detail. Our missionaries need our support as they "go to the ends of the earth" spreading the gospel.
Merry Christmas to all!

Miss Peggy
December 17, 2006 - Msg 47852: Hi All.
Will this had ben a bust monthy for rayers for everyone .
Me heart go out to the family of the mountclimber who was found dead .
RO- prayer for your friend too.

This was in a card that I saw
THE BEST GIFE OF CHRISTMAS

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
2 corinthians 9:15 best gift of christmas lies not
beneath the tree, wrapped in shiny paper with
a bow tied carefully-- the best, where
Gods love came as Jesus...The best christmas gift of all.
May you experience Gods gift of love and find the joy of christmas in every day of the new year.


love tom

December 17, 2006 - Msg 47853: Hi porch folk. Just stopping by to say "hi." It's basketball season full swing at our house. Both kids play hs ball and hubby coaches 5th - 6th. We have been on the run and will be till mid Feb. I suppose. I'm feeling like I'd like to listen to some music under the stars about now and take in a band concert so clean them spiders outta there, Gomer. Good to see ya'll are here having lively chitchat (which, by the way, I don't hate) even when I'm nowhere in sight. Save my rocker for me, will you?
Charlotte Tucker
December 17, 2006 - Msg 47854: Me again. Just read some archives. Prayers for Millie's chemo. MDC, Loved your 12 Days of Christmas. Watched It's a Wonderful Life, Christmas Story, and yesterday White Christmas. Man, I love that song "Count your blessings instead of sheep." Good advice.
CT
December 17, 2006 - Msg 47855: Good evening, folks. Well, bad as I hate to admit it, and hated to do it, I had to turn the a/c back on this afternoon. When the temp in here hit 82, I decided it was time, December or not. Sure seems weird.

Welcome to Brian and Little Leon, who dropped by our porch. Glad to have you, please feel free to drop in anytime. Mayberry is universal, I guess.

Well, guess I'll turn in. Gotta take my car back to the dealership tomorrow, they found a problem with the radio - it won't toggle between the single CD player, the radio, and the 6-disc CD changer. I should be able to hit the "source" button and toggle from one to the other, and it won't do it. Ha! I didn't even know it was supposed to! Anyway, they're going to put in a new radio, no charge. They'd have done it last week, but had to order the radio. Those folks run a class act, believe me.

Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 17, 2006 - Msg 47856: Apologies to Little Leon. You should have been bold, but I put in an extra "/". Sorry! --Romeena
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47857: Romeena, you are rubbing it in, ain't you! 82 and a/c. It is 14 here this morning with a high this afternoon all the way to 28. A regular heat wave!
I will certainly offer a prayer for your friend Susan and her husband. That is sad to hear about the situation they are facing.
Charlotte, so good to see you again. Sounds like your busy alright.
Possum, is our Laci home yet? I hope so and that she is doing fine.
Spot, you cooking breakfast today? I'm hungrier than an old buzzard and my name ain't even Don!
Hope you all have a wonderful Monday.

Asa
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47858: Good Morning Porch family, well, we made it back from our trip to Atlanta in good shape. Big Big Week end for Maude's family. My son enjoyed the football game. The Big City is a nice place to visit, but I prefer the small town life where I live. the traffic is crazy there. going to catch up on the archives and check back later.
have a good morning. sausage biscuits for everyone with coffee, tea or OJ. see you later.
Big Maude
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47859: Hi All.
Asa- Ro had me beatfor the pass week we have ben in the 50-70 temp.
love tomm
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47860: HEY ALL
I was reading some comments about keeping your kids focused on the true meaning of Christmas.
Yeah it's hard.
I am going with my brother, sister in law and nephew to serve Christmas dinner at a shelter on the day.
we never had a whole lot as I was growing up, but we still had some very special Christmases.
It's about Jesus, and reaching out to others.
Ahappynut
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47861: Good morning everyone. It's warm here, too (sorry ASA). The weatherman says it'll be in the low 50s to mid-60s through Christmas. Must be that global warming.

ROMEENA: I'll be praying for your friend.

POSSUM: Prayers continue for Laci.

AHAPPYNUT: Now that's a meaningful Christmas tradition.

Good to see you CHARLOTTE. APB for IDELLE, IRISHTER, DIXIE, GOOBER (how's the little Gooberette doing?), AFD (how's Reagan?) and others. I sure miss COLT. Howdy to all you hookey-players from Miss Crump's class. Welcome back MAUDE.

TOM: It must be difficult dealing with such holidays, but just you keep on laying up those treasures in heaven. Someday, your every day will be a holiday of joy beyond imagination.

I'll try and stop back later. Busy, busy, busy...

Me-They
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47862: MDC: You'll appreciate this...last night at my men's accountability group meeting we were reading some passages from the Bible. I laughed out loud when someone read Luke 2:10. Not that I thought it was funny, but I couldn't help but hear Linus' voice inside my head!

M-T
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47863: I think more than feet fell asleep today. Six hours without so much as a how-do-you-do!

Me-They (Otherwise known as the Lone Poster)
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47864: Wow gang...busy here at work...will someone cook supper...SPOT
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47865: SPOT, I will cook supper for us tonight.
Fried chicken,mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans,slaw, baby carrots, biscuits with butter, and peach cobbler for dessert and sweet tea to drink. come hungry!! Have a good evening! Big Maude
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47866: WOW Big Maude now thats a meal,thanks.........SPOT
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47867:
"Linus--For unto us this day is born a savior, which is Christ the Lord!" I hear ya me-they, it is a great line and it is what i tried to capture in the display! Cool!
Catch ya all tomorrow. prayers continue for all.
MDC
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47868: hi all,sorry i've been so scarce,just been busy,busy,busy!Our pastor says,busy,stands for burdened under satans yoke,if you are too busy to read your bible and pray daily.I know thats true,but,i sure need time to stop by the porch once in a while too!Satan knows what good people you all are,so,I guess he doesn't like me stopping by,but,i'm making time tonight!prayers for laci and the hikers,and everyone who needs them.Please remember my 11 year old,jamie,in your prayers.She was in the hospital from thursday to sunday,she had a severe asthma attack,and,it took them quite a few days to get her lungs moving enough oxygen through them to make her breathing better.Talk to you all later,my phone is ringing.-kygirl
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47869: Hi all! Been so busy, haven't rocked much, but I am feeling much better this week(no chemo!) so I'll be around more.
I want to thank Skippy.....this weekend she had all her beautiful long hair cut off and gave it to Locks of Love.....her way of supporting me and others in my situation. Thanks for being you, Skippy. You're one in a million.
More later, got some chores to finish, and the dryer is buzzing me.....
Millie
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47870: Oops! Prayers for Jamie, kygirl.
Mil
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47871: I have an Olympus digital camera and I am just crazy about it. It was not overly expensive. It takes great photos and is very easy to operate. I have decided that come this year, I am gonna start doccumenting more of my life in pictures. I need to scan the photo of Kyle in Floyds Barber Shop in Mt Airy (in North Carolina Business magazine) and send it to Romeena for the porchsters photo page, along with some current photos. Ro, can you tell me where I should send the pictures to? I know you have probably posted it many times, but I dont have it...

Prayers for them who need them.
fun girl

December 18, 2006 - Msg 47872:
Thanks Maude for supper. Gooooood!

Spot...don't work too hard brother.

Millie...so glad you are feeling better.

Prayers for Jamie and all in need.
Have a blessed night!
-REV.
December 18, 2006 - Msg 47873: Sure thing, fun girl. Send the pics to Romeena at airmail dot net. You know how to put that together.

I know what you mean about that Olympus camera. Mine is a D550 and is several years old. I'm sure yours is much nicer. Mine is only 3.0 megapixels, so yours probably takes much sharper images, but the little 3.0 is none too shabby. I love it, never have to worry about buying film, I can review pictures immediately after taking them, delete the bad ones, and no cost for developing. If I want prints of something, I can have them made from the media card, or I can print them myself. I have a nice little photo printer, very inexpensive but good quality - a Hewlett-Packard, I think. I just love the current technology.

My friend Susan, the missionary's wife, will be having surgery tomorrow at 11 a.m.. They think the mass is so large as to be interfering with her kidney function, and we can only pray that it's operable. For updates, you can go to CarePages.com, and her page is entitled SusanJerry. Please pray for her, and for the surgical team that will be working on her tomorrow, and for her dear husband, who is just distraught. As you might imagine, all those little children back in Mongolia are praying too, and I'm sure that God will find those to be the sweetest prayers of all.

Prayers for Jamie, and prayers of praise for a more comfortable week for Millie. Skippy, what a kind thing to do, donating your hair like that. Such a loving sacrifice!

I spent a lovely evening with a friend. We went out to dinner, then drove around looking at the beautiful Christmas lights, then came home and watched "It's a Wonderful Life". She just left, and the Plum and I are about to curl up for a bit more TV, then off to bed.

Sugarplum says ho, ho, ho! --Romeena
December 19, 2006 - Msg 47874: Hey Ro....sounds like a perfect evening. Glad you had fun. Prayers for Susan, her husband, and the docs.
I agree about digital cameras....I don't know how I did without one! I still have my 35 mm, and use it occasionally, but the digital is bettter.
Making pies.....earlier today I made cocnut custard, now banana cream. Better get back to work!
Millie
December 19, 2006 - Msg 47875: Well slowed down a bit here at work...Hey Rev,Ro,millie,skippy....prayers fg....Breakfast will be on me at waffle house!...got andy on the tube....good ept about gomer getting fired and moving in with andy...well let me find us a snack....back in a bit...SPOT
December 19, 2006 - Msg 47876: Haven't had time to read up on everything - been busy with baby goats. . .they are all doing pretty well and we are about half way - two thirds finished with kidding for this part of the sason. Busy, Busy, Busy

Hark the Herald Angels Shout - 3 MORE DAYS AND SCHOOL IS OUT!

homemaker
December 19, 2006 - Msg 47877:
Hey Folks

Wanted to say hey to my friends, you too Me-They, I kid I kid, you know I care for ya!

Lots going on, not much of it fun right now.

homemaker-I'll second your hark to the Herald Angels! Is that enough for a quorum?

Hope to stop back later.
auh2o
December 19, 2006 - Msg 47878: Good Tuesday Morning Porch! Just got back from DC & boy am I tired, getting ready to head out for another day of puppy grooming, but wanted to stop by & say hello to my favorite porch!
*Mavis
December 19, 2006 - Msg 47879: Hey Y'all- Laci is coming home today! They kept her longer than we expected,due to her heart history.Just wanted to make sure her heart rate was ok.I was at the hospital with her yesterday and we said a prayer that she would get well and come home for Christmas-God answered it.Thank you Lord!
Not sure what's been going on here the past few days-will have to catch up with everyone.Hope all is well. Love to all and thank you again for all the prayers for my grandchild.
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
December 19, 2006 - Msg 47880: Yeah - Possum gets her Christmas present early - Laci coming home. Give her hugs from the porch!

hm
December 19, 2006 - Msg 47881:
possum-What a great present!

auh2o
December 19, 2006 - Msg 47882: Hooray for Laci. That is wonerful news Possum.

Asa
December 19, 2006 - Msg 47883: Well Hello everyone,
Its been a loooong time.
I of course cant read all the archives..but I hope everyone is doing well and getting ready for a Merry Christmas.

I did read a bit about birthdays/parties and Christmas gifts. I am one of those moms that can go overboard probably. I try to be reasonable, but I do a lot I suppose. But not like some others.
My daughters biggest birthday party was a Circus Themed one. We held it at church, we had like a circus tent type thing set up with face painting..games, like bean bag toss, various other games. I had a friend, who does a clown impersonation do that and blew up balloons for the kids. In total with friends family and parents, it was about 50 ppl. But it was so much fun. This past year, for her 5th party, she had a Pretend Pajama/Sleep over party. I wouldnt let 6 kids that age spend the night, so they came in their pjs, brought sleeping bags, did hair, nails, make up, karoke, games, pinata, we ate breakfast food (since they wouldnt be here in the AM), then watched a movie in their sleeping bags. It was from 4-7, so they could go home dressed and ready for bed. I liked that party too.
as far as Christmas gifts, we give the same amount to each child. It may not be the same value,but the same amount. This year they are getting 4 gifts each, and 4 together gifts, then of course stocking stuffers. But I love to get anyone what they want..just cant always do it.

Well have a great day!

Idelle
December 19, 2006 - Msg 47884: How many times, and in how many ways, can I say - Praise the Lord!!

Here is a report on my missionary friend Susan's surgery, which took place this morning, copied directly from her care page:

"Ok. Susan's surgery is now over. Are you ready for the most bizarre news of the year? The mass was not a cancerous or fibroid tumor. Apparently, Susan had developed an infection that had sealed itself off...and grew...and grew. The surgeon drained 12 pounds of pus from Susan's abdomen. He has never seen anything like this before. He even called other surgeons into the surgical suite, and none of them had even seen anything like this either. If this infection had not sealed itself off, or if it had ruptured, Susan would not be alive. Susan is still not "out of the woods" yet; there is still concern about her kidneys and she needs 4 units of blood. Susan will remain in the hospital about 4 days while doctors try to determine the cause of the infection."

There is no other explanation - people have prayed mightily, and God has answered. True, as the report states, there are still some things that need answers, but as certain as the doctors were that they were dealing with ovarian cancer, and now to find what they found -- well, I really believe that God will be able to deal with those other questions as well. What a mighty God we serve!

Thank you, everyone, for your prayers.

Sugarplum says thank you! --Romeena
December 19, 2006 - Msg 47885: Hey Hm i got plenty of wood just have to get it split,hey Mavis bet this time of the year dog busy..Hey Romeena prayers for Susan,Merry Christmas Idelle,Rev,MDC,MD and all race fans they test at Daytona in 2 weeks!..Ward Burton has a full time ride this year!..well hey possum,auh20,fg,skippy,mil,lucy...my buddy Asa...tonight lets have a late supper at Olive Garden on me...Asa they got good soup...well slow tonight here at work....back in a bit...SPOT the"today is Kelseys birthday she is 8" dog of your porch..