June 30, 2007 - Msg 53795: Very well said, Romeena. You really should have been a nurse/editorial writer...you have a wonderful way of expressing yourself.

Sterling, my dear friend, I feel for you. I get so concerned sometimes, not only for my own children (and they aren't in public school) but for all children in this society. Let's remember to pray that God will change things in the public school system, somehow. Maybe he can use some of us to do it. I wonder if you have ever considered homeschooling Kai until a job becomes available to you? It is fairly easy to do at Kai's age and there is curriculum available via the internet that won't cost you, or will cost very little. Just think of the extra time you would have with her to impart your values to her at her young age. Just a thought....I pray that job opens up for you soon and that the Lord will provide for you and your family. I know it must be tough to be in your position right now, but being in the position of having to lean on the Lord can be a real "growing" experience, right? You seem to have a very humble spirit and the Lord will bless you...remember he opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Oh, to answer your question about talc, yes it has been linked to cancer. Specifically to ovarian and lung, but ingesting it is never a good idea. I know it is probably a very small amount in a vitamin but I wouldn't do it anyway. I never buy powder that contains talc, either.

Well, better go tackle the rest of that laundry.....

Boo
June 30, 2007 - Msg 53796: Here is a good website that explains what talc is and why it's a cancer risk (it has properties similar to asbestos). wwwdotpreventcancerdotcom and do a search for talc.

Boo
June 30, 2007 - Msg 53797: Hey Y'all! Boy,that was some bachelorette party we threw for Mavis last night! For you fellas who didn't get to attend,here's a bit of what you missed: Yes,Asa did perform his Gigolo Club act for us-even jumped out of a cake! Only thing was,he forgot he was wearing his toolbelt and when he jumped out,all that wiggling & jiggling he was doing caused his hammer to fly out of his toolbelt and hit Hazel in the head! Hazel just clopped him back with that leg of lamb she's been brandishing lately. Don't worry-Asa's ok.Can't nothin' hurt that hard head! (just kidding,Asa!) If some folks are absent from the Porch today,well,let's just say those were some mighty good mulberry squeezins - hiccup! Ha!
Careful when you go to sit in your rocking chairs- Millie & Boo both found meatballs under their cushions!
On a serious note,Boo,I've never had a close friend pass away,but I'd imagine the emotions you're feeling are normal. You mentioned that she wasn't taking her blood pressure meds as she should have,so I can see why you'd be angry about her not taking care of herself. Just hang in there and ride out all the feelings that you're experiencing. I pray it will get easier.
Prayers for Sterling & his job situation.
Y'all have a good afternoon and Happy Wedding Day to Mavis!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
June 30, 2007 - Msg 53798: MDC.. the fine for the Hendrick cars were for not conforming to the front fender templets before qualifying last week
MD
June 30, 2007 - Msg 53799: Thanks Possum. It's funny because yesterday was just a painful day for some reason and Sean and I both dreamt of Karen last night. We both had dreams that she was back here with us for a visit and that she looked very young again. In part of Sean's dream, he said he was sitting near a window in the church and Karen was there, he looked outside the window to see a beautiful white dove flying up to heaven. Some days are more difficult than others but I never seem to stop thinking about her for long. I don't think I ever shared this because it is very personal but Karen and I were very close like sisters and when we were still young and unmarried we even lived together (no, it wasn't an innapropriate realationship. That would have never happened). Since Karen was down here alone and without family, we became like family and even formed a covenant (like King David and Saul's son, Benjamin) that we would always be sisters/friends and watch out for each other forever. In the bible, a covenant was a very serious thing that, once made, God expected to be fulfilled. It is like a vow made before God. Karen and I had a very great love for each other, just as I have for my own natural-born sister. I took that vow very seriously, just as I am always faithful to my family. So, for the past 20 or so years, that is how it has been. We have shared our lives as family, shared holidays, raised our children together, helped each other out in any way. Now, I find myself in the position of being needed by her children, so I will continue to do what I can for her. It's not easy but with the Lord's help, I can do it. It's funny, at Karen's funeral, people who were touched by her had the opportunity to stand up and share a memory. Bruce stood up for the both of us and one of the things her said was that when he married me, he knew it would be a "package deal", that Karen would also be a member of our family, and that's just how it was, through thick and thin. It was never very hard to include her, though, she was a very kind and compassionate person; the kind who was generous to a fault. I hope you all have a friend like her, the kind who will stick with you no matter what.

Boo
June 30, 2007 - Msg 53800:
Sterling, to borrow some words from our Poor Horatio, sometimes WE have to be the ones to make a change in whatever it is! YOU need to stand up to that activist and present a counter speech saying why you do NOT need such a class.
I complained for several years about the lack of caregivers at my mom's nursing home. Sometimes it can get to be as high as 20 to 1 because managemnet wont call in more help.
So i am now working with my state legislator to introduce a bill at the next session to have no more than a 7 to 1 ratio in nursing homes.!!
Next week I'll tell you about a founding father who had a mortal illness, yet travelled 80 miles thru the night to vote to help pass the Declaration of Independence! He didnt have to do that, but we are free today because of his vote!
OK, that's enough soapbox, I'll slide it back under the porch. (:
BOO- yes, that is very normal. I HAVE lost a good friend. It will pass eventually, but it can really be with you for some time. My prayers are with you. I just had to keep saying that "life does indeed go on."
Possum- that was very cute about the party!
Was mrs Wiley there? haha
ya all have a good day,
MDC
Barn: Little things like this will lead to a police state.
June 30, 2007 - Msg 53801:
Hello everyone. Just a quick check in to say howdy. Busy day today. Hope to check in tonight. Concerts are going good.
Prayers for all!
-REV.
June 30, 2007 - Msg 53802: Been praying for you Boo. Haven't checked in for quite some time now. Busy with life in general, plus trying to help our daughter who just graduated, map out a plan for her future. Sweet story about you and Karen, Boo. My best friend and I are just as loyal. It's not everyone that will meet you at church at 10:30 in the evening to pray, but Denise didn't hesitate when I asked her. She's almost too good to be true! Don't know how you guys feel about your 'buds', but we ladies need at least one that's 'tried and true'!

Sterling, hope you get the job that you need. Kai is very fortunate to have a Dad who cares like you do.

Best of everything with your new hubby, Mavis!

Hope everyone has a great Mayberry evening!

Miss Peggy
June 30, 2007 - Msg 53803: (singing proudly..) "Here comes the bride, all dressed in....leather???"....isn't today Mavis' wedding day or am I off?

Hey Peggy, good to hear from you. Thank you for your prayers and kind words! It's true, we do need a good friend, don't we?

Hubby is putting in the new dishwasher (finally!!) so hopefully no more dishpan hands (remember that commercial?).

Boo
June 30, 2007 - Msg 53804: ..."you're soaking in it!"
June 30, 2007 - Msg 53805: Yes Boo, I have considered homeschooling Kai. But it is kind of a moot point for right now, because as I've said, we could barely afford our mortgage this month, and I need to concentrate on finding work or it will get worse. That, and I'm not entirely certain that my wife would go for that. But she did mention the private school, so I think that is our best bet - something we could both agree on. You, and your kids, are lucky to be able to homeschool. What do you do(especially when you only have one child) about socialization with other kids, when you homeschool? I would be afraid of Kai being isolated. Heck, I would feel guilty during the school year on weekends, when Kai would come up to me and say, "Daddy, I have no one to play with." And that was just a weekend. :D

I know, MDC, I have been trying to think of what I can do to at least put it into the school board's head that this type of thing isn't needed. I HAVE thought of presenting my case to them during a meeting, but you know, out comes my fear of public speaking. To say nothing of the fact that I don't consider myself a very good speaker.(That's why I like writing, I guess; I feel I can communicate more effectively that way).
So, I was thinking of a letter to the editor, or to go more directly to the source, a letter to the school board. I'd like to be able to include names from other parents of the district, but I am not the most social of people, and it would already difficult to bring up this subject and not appear "intolerant". Which is I suspect another reason why these "social" activists have found it so easy to manipulate the public inst*tutions. After all, who wants people to think they are "intolerant", "discriminatory", or any of the "-phobics" that the pc crowd likes to throw at you at any time.
We don't, because most of us Christians are not that way, even though that is what defending traditional values is labelled nowadays, and we don't want anyone to think we are like that. So they are using the Christian principles of tolerance, acceptance, and love, against us.

Oy, I think I even outdid Romeena's lengthy speech on the soapbox. Maybe I should stop while there is still some room on this page before it is swept again.

Thanks for all your comments and prayers. And Miss Peggy, thanks for the compliment!

Have a nice night everyone. Oh, and I hope you had a Happy Wedding Day, Mavis!

-Sterling Holobyte


June 30, 2007 - Msg 53806: I don't homeschool my kids, Sterling. I did homeschool Sean 3 years ago but he has dyslexia and it just became too much for me while caring for my parents, too. At that time, though, Sean's Tourette symptoms were much more severe and putting him in school wasn't an option. When his symptoms were controlled through medication, he was able to attend private school. I did take him out a month early last year and schooled him at home because of some anxiety problems, so we could re-adjust his meds. I am planning on sending him back to private school next year (he and Erin). I may consider homeschooling again in the future, depending on what Sean's needs are. As far as socializing goes, when I was homeschooling Sean we had lots of kids on our street that he played with everyday after school and one good friend across the street who was also homeschooled. We had a bigger problem getting him to stop socializing and do some schoolwork! ha Also he had alot of friends at church that he did things with. Erin would have a tougher time with homeschooling because she lives and breathes being with other kids. She loved going to school for no other reason than to be with her buddies.

I can relate to what you are saying about Christians being considered intolerant. Unfortunately all you ever hear about in the media it seems, is people like Fred Phelps (the guy whose church pickets the funerals of military heroes). There is not much out there about those thousands of martyrs who give their lives in this world to help others.

Better go...

Boo
June 30, 2007 - Msg 53807:
Hello porch family.

Where's Tom? Check in buddy.

Hello Miss Peggy. Good to see ya back sitting in your rocker.

Congrats to Mavis! God bless your new lives together.

Wow Boo....what a voice! I think yu should sing at more weddings.

Prayers for all. Have a good nights rest.
-REV.
June 30, 2007 - Msg 53808: Thanks REV, Miss Eleanor Poultice said I could be a star....

Boo
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53809: Oh, sorry Boo. I guess I just thought that since you said your kids didn't go to public school that they were homeschooled. Of course, NOW I remember you talking about the troubles Sean was having in school.
I must have gotten my wires crossed somewhere. Probably at Emmett's Fix-it shop.;)

I just watched the episode where Howard goes off to live on the island, and it just hit me, that wasn't it kind of rude for him - when they were watching the travelogue of the Caribbean islands over at Andy's house - to get up and turn the volume up on the tv. I mean, I wouldn't even touch someone elses tv when everyone is watching it, but especially not turn up the volume right after Andy asked him a question. That just seemed double rude to me.
I'm sure they thought of him like family, but still. It was almost like he was telling Andy to shut up by turning up the volume like that.

Oh oh, I'm going off on another tangent. Somebody stop me! ;)

-Sterling Holobyte
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53810: Good sweep Boo..hey Rev be sure to get rest..Asa ltes take everybody to Shoneys breakfast bar!...im back at work for 24 today...bacl in a bit...SPOT
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53811: Hey Sterling, "wanna buy a ship in a bottle?"...

Boo
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53812: Good morning, all. I agree, Christians are always maligned for standing up for their principles, accused of being "intolerant" when we try to uphold God's laws, and held up to ridicule when someone seems to fail. Interesting note: You all remember my two mission trips to Mongolia? Well, I got a letter from our missionary, telling how some illegal Chinese men, in an unauthorized mining project, managed to contaminate the entire water supply for the small town that was our base there, Darkhan. Somehow they got sodium cyanide and mercury into the water supply. The entire town is without water, about 5,400 people. The government trucked water in for a while, but ran out of funds for it, so just stopped. So, Jerry and his staff have stepped up and are trucking water in, using mission vehicles, at a cost of $3,000 a month. Also, scientists from Baylor University and some water experts from the Texas Baptist Men will be in Mongolia next week to try to find a way to resolve the problem. Faith in action, friends, faith in action. The largely atheistic government of Mongolia has no qualms about allowing the Christian missionary organization to step in and solve their problem for them. This I know, though. The people of Mongolia will long remember who gave them "a cup of cool water" when they needed it. God works in mysterious ways.

I have a deep concern for the mission work in that country. Sandwiched between Russia and China, Mongolia is very close to the "-istan" countries on its western edge, and could easily be overrun by Muslims. The population is mostly atheistic, with some Buddhism, and some animism and shamanism thrown in. There are only 2.8 million people, in the whole country. That, my friends, is "do-able", in terms of evangelization. Will it be by Christians, or Muslims? Those folks are hungry for something in which to believe, they have that "God-shaped void" in their hearts. If we don't fill that void with God, one of these days the Muslims will overrun that land and "convert by the sword if necessary", as their Qu'ran teaches them to do. That's why I went, and that's why I'd love to go again.

Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53813: Hope you can go again, Romeena. That is a wonderful example of Christian love in action, but you probably never hear about it on the evening news...

Boo
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53814: Ok folks, I am officially a married woman now! The wedding went great! Not alot of folks showed up, but there was a threat of rain overhead, but it was wonderful. You can read all about it here http://www.tricities.com/tristate/tri/news.apx.-content-articles-TRI-2007-07-01-0012.html
it was great! Be back later or through the week while we are honey-m0oning.
*Mavis
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53815: Hey Floyd or Horatio can one of ya'll make a link for that for me?
Thanks
*Mavis
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53816: CONGRATS MAVIS!! May you spend many, many happy years together.
Millie
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53817: Congrats Mavis!..Millie just saw your Bogart Pic on Ro"s site...neat to know who im talking too!..hey where has TOM been?..Rev dont weat your self out on the road..Horatio say your pic too...i have to get her some pics of the new boat and lake pics...hey hazel,possum,sterling,asa,mdc & md and race fans...one hr till the flag drops....well late lunch: fried bologna sandwiches and chilie chees free-toes!!..fanta grape....well back in a bit...SPOT
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53818: that "wear"..mercy!..now that was a funny mistake!
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53819: Good Sabbath y'all.

Congratulations Mrs. Mavis! That's swell news.

BOO: All I can say is that I'm praying for you.

STERLING: Prayers for your situation as well. Regarding education, like everything else we do, it should be Christ-centered. All private schools are not created equal. If you do decide to go this route, shop around for one that has a good Biblical as well as academic foundation. And, at least in my area, the parochial schools tend to be far less expensive that other private schools.

Hey to the rest of you. I've got to get to work (sad, but true).

Me-They
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53820: This from MSN Health: "According to studies done on shopping carts, more than 60 percent of them are harboring coliform bacteria (the sort more often associated with public toilet seats). 'These bacteria may be coming from raw foods or from children who sit in the carts,' says Chuck Gerba, Ph.D., a microbiologist at University of Arizona. 'Just think about the fact that a few minutes ago, some kid’s bottom was where you are now putting your broccoli.' According to studies done by Gerba and his colleagues at University of Arizona, shopping carts had more bacteria than other surfaces they tested—even more than escalators, public phones and public bathrooms. To avoid picking up nasty bacteria, Gerba recommends using sanitizing wipes to clean off cart handles and seats, and to wash your hands after you finish shopping."

Yukky!

M-T
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53821: Double yukky! Our local Kroger store made a half-hearted effort to provide sanitizing wipes, but it only lasted a couple of months. The little pole that held the container of wipes is now gone - stolen, probably, like everything else that isn't nailed down. My personal semi-solution is to pick up a cart from the parking lot and take it into the store with me, especially one that's far out and all alone, not in a corral. My reasoning is that the longer it has been sitting out there, the fewer hands and dirty kid bottoms have touched it. Also, if it's been sitting in the sun for a while, it has been sanitized to some degree. The sun will kill a lot of pathogens, especially yeasts. I have a small bottle of hand sanitizer in my purse, which I dribble on the cart handle, then wipe it down with a tissue. Of course, I keep my hands away from my face until I can get home and wash them with soap. Also, I never, ever, put fresh produce directly into the cart. I don't care if it's one onion, it goes in a bag. That may not be "green", but it's safer.

My yard is overgrown with weeds! The recent rain has brought them out like, well, like weeds! It's beyond what I can manage myself, so I've scheduled my landscaper friend to bring his helper and come spend a day with me. We had mulched it all very thoroughly, and the dratted weeds just grew in the mulch! It's all one thing, not sure what it is, but it sure is prolific.

Congrats, Mavis! I'll be looking for those pictures for the album. Have a wonderful life!

Well, I hear a nap calling me. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53822: To clarify - the weeds are in the flowerbeds, not the lawn. --Romeena
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53823: Well storms are headed this way again...about 30 miles away..small hale and winds...may be a long night for me!...will someone whup up some grub and Fed-ex the Rev and I a plate?...SPOT
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53824:
Good Sabbath to all.
Congratulations Mavis!!
RO- our Kroger-owned chain here, Fry's Foods, has the handy wipes at the door still. They have been out about a year. Our 115 summer days definitely do a job on them too! haha
Hey folks, forecast for 4th of July is 118!
We dont need fireworks, things just spontaneously combust! haha
I watch a tags ep on dvd last night where Andy and Floyd are talking in the barbershop about carps.
It is such a funny routine, right up there with "who's on first' in my opinion. It's the "Crime-free Mayberry" episode.
How goes the race Spot, MD?
Hang in there friends.
MDC
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53825: Hey all.....Spot I got some grub for ya....Beef stew and biscuits, comin' your way. Peach cobbler for dessert.
Mil
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53826: Well, it's raining again here, but my "storm" has passed. I had the 3 yr old grandson on Friday night, traded off with their other grandmother on Saturday and brought the 6 yr old home with me, and kept him last night. We made it to church this morning (the issue was in doubt a couple of times, but we made it) and then all went to lunch afterward. Brought him back home with me, and finally went to dinner a while ago, met my son and DIL and handed the kids off. Oh, and I had their dog, Bentley, the whole weekend. We all had fun, and I'll do it again, but it's nice to be home with just the Plum tonight. She and Bentley started playing this afternoon, chasing each other, tugging on toys, rolling around on the carpet, with the Plum acting like a puppy. She'll be stiff and sore in the morning, I'll bet! It was good to see her playing, though. She's not such an old lady after all, I guess. Bentley is so cute. He's five times her size, but he's so gentle with her when he plays. You can just see him pulling his punches, and he'll run from her like he's scared when she chases him, big old goofy grin on his face. Cute dog!!

Well, I'm tired. I'm ready to get into my jammies, settle into my chair with a glass of tea by my side and the Plum in my lap, and maybe catch some Britcoms. Have a lovely evening, everyone. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53827: Sterling, praying that you'll have a peace about Kai's education. I'm thankful to have been able to homeschool both my girls. One just graduated and the other one will be in 6th grade in the fall. When will you know something about your job situation?

Millie, how are you feeling these days?

Boo, how are the house plans, and your Mom and Dad?

Night everyone... sweet dreams!

Miss Peggy
July 01, 2007 - Msg 53828: Thanks Peggy! About the insur@nce job, I don't know when I will hear from them. They did say they will tell me whether or not I got the job and won't leave me hanging. I told them I appreciated that. Especially after the trouble I had getting an answer out of Walmart. Geesh! Still haven't gotten one either.

The grocery meat cutter job I should hear about tomorrow.

Thanks for the prayers everybody.

Geeze, MDC, where do you live, the Sahara Desert? ;) Try and have a cool 4th!

-Sterling Holobyte

Oh, I was watching the episode tonight where Opie gets a job and breaks that bottle of perfume, and then he finds out it is only a display bottle filled with colored water.
My question is, why would a store have display bottles of perfume without any perfume in them? What, a customer is going to see a bottle of perfume(colored water) they like, without wanting to smell it?
And why wouldn't Opie have been able to tell that it really wasn't perfume in that bottle he broke because of the lack of fragrance?
Actually, I can kind of write that part off as he was too scared to even think about that after he broke the bottle.
But having the perfume display bottles is just odd.

-Sterling Holobyte
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53829: Thanks for the grub Mil...and Sterling I agree with you!..Hey Ro,plum,lucy,MDC race was good..Denny won...Jr had a good run...well storms have passed here at work and letting crews go home...whew..It almost 4 am mon and I have been here since 6 am Sunday...gona try to wrap things up...Breakfast will be at Asa"s house...surprise! surprise! suprise!....prayers [yawn] SPOT
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53830: Hey Sterling, you know anything about cutting meat? :)
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53831:
Hello porch family....Concerts went great last night. It was so late I didn't get to check in on the porch.

Congrats Mavis! Prayers for the very best in your life together.

Spot...get some rest buddy. I didn't get to see much of the race. I caught the highlights this morning.

MDC...keeping cool out there? Do they still use swamp coolers out there? I had never heard of them the first time I was in AZ.

You all have a blessed day. Prayers for all!
-REV.

July 02, 2007 - Msg 53832: Good morning everyone. ASA's for breakfast, huh? This oughta be interesting.

MDC: Only 118 for Independence Day? I doubt those founding fathers of ours would have worn those powered wigs in the desert ;).

Now, I have come up with a list of my own fashion don'ts:
1. Men with sandals. Man, another way that the 60s have ruined things. Thanks, baby boomers. Keep your ugly feet in your shoes already!
2. Body piercings. Who finds this stuff attractive? And shouldn't they be getting therapy?
3. Teenage girls with phrases or words written across the seat of their shorts. What parent allows this? Do you really want your daughter advertising like this?
4. Women wearing jeans and high heels. Kind of like pearls with a t-shirt. I also add capri pants with high heels. Kinda creepy.
5. Crop tops and other inappropriate clothing on preteens. Who are their parents dressing them for anyway? I'm sure all the sickos out there are loving the current trend for parents to dress their little girls in clothes that grown women in a burlesque show would have worn in days gone by.
6. Boys with pants so baggy it looks like they are wearing a bolt of fabric on each leg. Better than tight pants I suppose, but really sloppy.
7. Boys (and even some "men") with pants hanging down at their hips (or worse). Even my three year old knows to pull up his pants without being told.
8. ASA in a toolbelt. Only a toolbelt. Oh, the inhumanity!

See y'all at lunch.

Me-They
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53833:
APB for Tom! And Dud!
-REV.
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53834: STERLING: Just wanted you to know that your situation is in my prayers. I know first-hand the anxiety you must feel. Keep us posted.

On the other hand, if that job falls through, maybe try with Emmett's brother-in-law ;). Seriously, praying for the best (His) outcome.

M-T
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53835:
Morning M-T. Didn't mean to rock on ya buddy. Have a great day!
-REV.
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53836: Sorry for rocking on you, REV! I second your APB and add HORATIO, AUH2O, CHARLOTTE, IDELLE, GOOBER, and others.

M-T
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53837: We're a regular Abbott and Costello routine this morning, REV! Now back away slowly...

M-T
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53838: What the heck; lunch is on me today. I'll fix one of my specialties (beside pbj). It'll be Hawaiian Chick Salad (chicken, chunky pineapple, and shaved fresh coconut mixed with a little plain yogurt) on a Kasier roll. I don't care for them, but I'll put out some macadamia nuts for those who want to add them. Side of sweet potato fries and a cold kosher dill. And fresh squeezed lemonade on ice.

Me-They
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53839: thanks everyone for the advice on the grits. I do like cream of wheat--accept when it gets cold and rubbery. by the way 'Who's on first?"
I love abbot and costello.
My favorite films are
Abbot and Costello meet Frankenstine
The time of their lives
Gay Ninties
Abbot and costello meet the killer Boris Karloff
Mexican Hayride
Watch for the "smelter" routine in this one!!!

ahappynut
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53840: Glad your concerts are going well, Rev. I can't imagine the schedule that you have to keep. How many weeks out of the year are you on the road? Does your family travel with you sometimes?

It's raining cats and dogs here in south Texas! We either get drought or soaked in the summer. Can't complain, though, God is good!

Miss Peggy
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53841: As the resident dish washer in our house (when someone comments that we don't have a dishwasher, my wife corrects them and points at me), and father of children who love cream of wheat, I can attest first hand to the problem of that substance being left to dry in a bowl. That's when you have to take out the sander.

I really better get to work.

M-T
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53842:
Hey Folks

What a beautiful summer here, so far. School just let out last week so we're just kicking into gear.

Me-They I saw your little quip the other day, regarding Michael Moron, that's a low blow. I did read an article that he wrote claiming the wonders of the Cuban heath care system. Boy, I just don't see it. How a country that can't feed it's people, cloth it's people, or provide automobiles post-1951, have great heath care system. ....and quit staring at my nose ring!

Romeena- Loved your post, Msg 53812. Another bulls eye.

Sterling Holobyte- Just doing your part, in your way, will make a difference. Just don't stop doing what you think is right. In our school district, this last year, they showed "Super Size Me" to the kids and next year it's gonna be "An Inconvenient Truth." Well, that dog don't hunt. My kids are not sitting through that piece of dreck. I have already contacted the health teachers to let them know. Keep up the good fight.

Hope the Texas end of the porch is drying out.

I gonna get a cup of coffee and head out on the back porch and read for a bit. The kids got me "The Reagan Diaries" for dad's day.

auh2o

Oh yeah, John Edwards may want to rethink his there is no global war on terror bit. The people in Scotland and Britain may disagree.
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53843: Isn't that kind of Mr. Castro? He pumps all that money into keeping people alive to continue to enjoy the poverty and misery his regime has inflicted on Cuba. Maybe Michael Moore would want to document that. Oh, no, that's right, in Michael Moore World (he is big enough to have his own orbit and atmosphere) the truth is what you want it to be.

Yes, our health care system does need work, but you don't fix a computer by looking at typewriter manual.

What War of Terror? I'm still waiting for the Ann Coulter-Elizabeth Edwards boxing match. Ann may be skinny, but she's wiry. Whoever wins gets to act like somebody.

And the nose ring may actually improve things ;).

M-T
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53844: Well, thank you Me-They. And auh2o, I already had a talk with Kai's teacher about "opting" Kai out of one lesson they had planned earlier in the school year. I will let my voice be heard, in one way or another, you can count on that.

Why yes, Msg 53830, I actually was a meat cutter at a local grocery store(different from the one I may have the job with) for a while back in the day.

Me-They, I agree with all of your fashion don'ts. Although I have to admit I am known to wear sandals(not the split toe kind, but still). It was those visits to Hawaii that got me into that, as that is what everyone wears over there.
But one thing I cannot stand, besides piercings and tattoos, are those baggy pants. Sometimes it looks like they couldn't wait to get to the bathroom and had an accident in their drawers by the way they sag down in back.

I'd like to see that Ann - Elizabeth bout. I think Ann would mop up the floor with her. She's feisty.

Got to go get ready to take Kai to the Library for her reading program. Have a great day!

-Sterling Holobyte

-Sterling Holobyte
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53845: I see my evil twin also wrote.;)

-Sterling Holobyte
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53846: You have a great day, too, STERLING. At least your "dark cloud" of being in-between jobs has the silver-lining of being able to spend so much time with Kai. Who knows, maybe He has let you "idle" for awhile because Kai needs the time with her dad. There is a plan.

BOO or whoever is interested: I am currently listening to "The Diane Rehm Show" (as I typically do). He guest is Wendy Shalit, who is talking about her new book, "Girls Gone Mild." She previously wrote "A Return to Modesty." Basically, she is talking about teaching girls self respect and that modesty is good for them. She's not coming off like a religious zealot or anything but is making valid points. And Diane is treating her like she's stupid or something. I don't get it.

Me-They
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53847: auh2o, still have the umbrellas out in Texas!

Miss Peggy
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53848: Good morning, all. Yep, we're still pretty wet here in Texas. It's sunny today, but there are dire predictions for the middle and rest of the week. Gonna be hard to light wet fireworks, I'm thinkin'!

On the question of modesty, both for males and females, I just don't understand why there is even a question. Have these people no self-respect? For the younger ones, what are their parents thinking? Low-slung pants on men - who wants to see their cleavage anyway, I'd like to know? Makes me want to find a red hot nickel and drop it in the slot. And the way some girls and women dress, it's no wonder the Muslims see us as the great Satan. In their countries, a woman dressed like that would be shot where she stands, or worse. I'm not advocating that, and I'm certainly not advocating women wearing burqas, but a little modesty would be a good thing.

My father would have slapped me out of my shoes if I had started out the door dressed like that, and my husband would not have tolerated it from our girls, either. It's disgusting. And have you noticed how they bristle up and get defensive when some man looks too long, or makes a remark? What do they expect, for cryin' out loud?!

As for the piercings, (and I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings or start a moulage) but I have to ask: Why?? Yes, my ears are pierced, it was done when I was twelve, by a friend of my mother's. I wear discreet, pretty earrings, which are much more comfortable than the clip-on kind. Fact is, earlobes sort of invite piercing. I'll even go so far as to admit that the tiny nose studs are attractive on the exotic-looking women from the culture where the custom originated. They do look a bit odd on a freckled red-head, I think. However, what on earth would prompt someone to have a hole poked in their tongue, and a big silver stud stuck in it, to interfere with their speech, to trap food and germs, and to just generally look weird? And, as a nurse I can assure you that some people have piercings and wear rings in places you wouldn't imagine, and would really rather not think about. One would hope they're not usually visible, and though I've tried, I can think of no purpose that could be served by them. Really, really weird.

OK, that's my soapbox. If any of you porchsters have these piercings or dress like that, we'll never know unless you tell us, and I implore you, keep it to yourself! Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53849: Well, Me-They, Diane Rehms IS on NPR. That should explain alot of her disdain for traditional things right there. NPR is not known for their conservative leanings.
I actually used to listen to her back in the late 90's at my last job. When I first heard her I used to think she was a little old lady by the sound of her voice, until I learned that she had some problem with her throat that she was getting worked on.

I'm glad you agree with me, Spot, but with what do you agree with me? ;)

-Sterling Holobyte
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53850: Romeena, did you ever take Sugarplum back to the vet for an evaluation? Just wondering about the prognosis. Our Hershey is 6 and a half months, weighing in at 9 pounds and going strong! Has more energy than I do, that's for sure.

Miss Peggy
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53851: Having listened to Diane just about every work day for about eight years, I hear you. However, this didn't seem like a liberal v. conservative thing; just good old common sense for parents.

M-T
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53852: Sorry, I can't make it to lunch today with you all. There was a line at the tatoo parlor, and I had to wait forever; then when I left my high-heel got stuck in a crack in the sidewalk and I tripped and tore my blue jeans. I really can't eat anyway, had a little minor infection in my tongue pearcing and it's still healing. But, maybe I can join you all tomorrow.
- Hazel
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53853: HAZEL! I do believe that you're yankin' my chain. Thanks for reminding me...

9. Tatoos. I want to be there when these people with tatoos all over their faces and necks wake up in forty years and realize that a neekid lady looks just plain silly on a wrinkly old neck. On second thought, I don't actually want to be there.

Me-They
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53854:
M-T While I am in full agreement with your list, and have often expressed the same concerns, there was a time when buttons and zippers were frowned upon. I know this is the apples and oranges part of the debate but I felt I had to mention it, in the interest of full disclosure. By the way, has any one found a word that rhymes with oranges. No, poranges doesn't count.

auh2o
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53855: 10. Buttons and zippers. All sarapees, all the time.

Rhyming fruit is on my next list.

Me-They
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53856: Well im back at work and so arr the storms...Rev travel safe and watch out fot the
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53857: I hit the wrong button...supper...pizza..I will have to eat and work..hey.boo.auh20..where has TOM been or have I missed a post?...well ...wind blowing and they are about 20 miles away..let me get ready..prayers for those in its path...SPOT
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53858: Hello, mmy friends. Been a little quiet lately, 'cause I've been feeling so poorly. I went in for chemo today and they said "no way" because my counts are way low(like my spirits), so maybe next week. Anyway, I have the nutropenia again, time to get in my bubble. Sorry to be such a Debbie Downer today, but I believe I'd have to reach WAAAAAY up to touch a snake's belly. Y'all's prayers are appreciated, in advance. I love you guys.
Millie
Barney: "Heartache! Nothin' but heartache!"
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53859: Whoohoo, Me-They! you nailed it there. Again, as a nurse, I've been privileged (?) to see some rather personal personal adornments, and let me tell you, fallen tattoos rank high on the list of silly-looking things. Picture a full Zodiak, about ten inches across, adorning the recently-vacated abdomen of a new mother, with the navel as the center. Wrinkles, crinkles, creases and droops. Oh, it's a sight! Then there are the chains and anchors, and strands of barbed wire, that wrap male arms where bulging biceps no longer bulge. Not so fearsome looking when they're spanning a row of wrinkles. I think, though, the saddest tattoo I ever saw was a series of numbers on the forearm of an elderly woman who had survived a Nazi concentration camp. I've never forgotten that, and I hope the rest of the world will remember it as well.

Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53860: Oh, Millie, bless your little heart. I'm so sorry things are not going too well right now. Keep your sweet spirit, and know that we're all praying for you. Maybe God just felt you needed a little rest for a few days. Stay in, stay protected, and feel the love we're sending your way. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53861: Hazel, you are a caution! What a mental picture you painted -- too funny! Don't ever change, you are a bird in this world.

Miss Peggy, the Plum has an appointment a week from today. At this moment, she's feeling just fine. I combed her out a few minutes ago, and when I released her, she ran and grabbed a toy, raced around the room with it, had one of her old-time spaz attacks, and generally seems to be feeling very well. She's to have a chest x-ray next week, so we'll see what that finds. I'm thinking it will find nothing, but we'll see. --Romeena
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53862: You're always in our thoughts and prayers, Millie!

How about the Plum, Romeena?

Miss Peggy
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53863: Guess we were posting at the same time, Ro! Glad the Plum's spirits are good! The longer we have Hershey, the more I understand how you feel about Sugarplum. Keep us posted.

Miss Peggy
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53864: But auh2o, at least buttons and zippers are useful. What use is there in a pierced eyebrow or pants that sag down to your knees? ;)

Hope you get to feeling better, Millie.

-Sterling Holobyte
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53865: Hey Sterling, Miss Peggy, Ro....thanks,guys.
Millie
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53866:
OK, here is my July 4th trivia that is NOT trivial:
During the final vote for independence in 1776, there was a deadlock in the Delaware delegation; so, little-known Caesar Rodney, who was mortally ill, without regard to his own welfare, rode thru the night, a distance of 80 miles, arriving in time to save the motion on independence from being defeated! He also became a signer of the Declaration. His vote meant that we are FREE today!!! I learned this in 8th grade and have never forgotten how this one man made such a difference, yet, to this day, remains in relative obscurity.
I wonder if such important little tidbits are even taught today. More for ya tomorrow!
MDC
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53867:
Hazel, you beat ever'thing, you know that?

APB for our dear TOM!!! Come in TOM.

Prayers for you Mil. Hanging in there with you.

Auh20- Dont ya know that to Edwards the war on terror is "just a slogan, a bumper sticker."? I cant believe he said that til i heard him on the radio.

Sterling, I need some chops and a round steak please

Rev- Yes, many folks here use swamp coolers until our "rainy humid season" which usually starts around mid July til mid Sept. Humidity right now is about 10% and swamp coolers do well.
When it rises to 30%, everyone switches over to their AC units
Prayers for you all. God bless our troops.
MDC
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53868: I didn't hear Mr. Edwards' remark, but is it possible that it's taken out of context? If he made it as a flat statement of fact, of his opinion, then shame on him. If he meant that to some, it isn't a real war, but rather "just a slogan, a bumper sticker", then sadly, he might be right. Whatever he meant or didn't mean, though, the majority of us had better get it right. We are at war, or had darned well better be, with terrorism and those who employ it. They brought it to our shores once, and unless we continue a show of might, they will do it again. Those people DO NOT understand or respect peaceful negotiation, force is all they will ever recognize, and it had better be stronger than a leg o' lamb. I think the majority of Americans still don't quite grasp the mentality of the Muslim extremists, and don't realize that they don't think like normal people do. It will probably take another violent attack, maybe two, before all of us "get it". We had to hit Japan twice before they saw the light, perhaps America will be the same. I hope not. --Romeena
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53869: Before anyone corrects me, yes, I know we have been hit more than once. It's just that the 9/11 attack was so violent, so destructive, that the other attacks pale by contrast, and I tend to remember it as "the" attack. What frightens me is that in spite of the fact that there had been other attacks, the 9/11 attack wasn't enough. We went to Iraq, yes, but we need to go much further. It's time to draw a line in the sand, if you'll pardon the pun, and insist that Islam cease its worldwide campaign to "convert by the sword", or they will be eradicated by whatever means we can muster. The news media tells us very little of what is actually going on. Missionaries in Indonesia could tell us much. A missionary from Sudan told me much. Nurses from the Phillipines and from Nigeria have told me much. There are Muslim terrorist cells deployed worldwide. It's frightening. --Romeena
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53870: So sorry Millie, Prayers for you are on the way. I want to thank you for letting us know that you are feeling down so we could have the priviledge of praying for your need.

HAZEL, you really made my day with your last post. Thank you! You are such a funny lady.

All of you seem to be in good humor today. I have really enjoyed reading your posts.

Well, I had the nuclear stress test this morning and it was a piece of cake for the most part. I feel kind of bad when they injected me with the raidioactive material (go figure, ha) but it only lasted 3 minutes. Really a very easy procedure. The doc sad everything looked ok while I was on the treadmill but he still has to look at the pictures of my heart. He also said that my last EKG was very abnormal and would suggest a heart attack but that he expected that this test would show no damage, but that we should know for sure after this. Sounds good to me. I want to know for sure.

It rained like crazy here for a good part of the day and we are under a flash flood warning right now....I am expectin' some Texas-sized mosquitos real soon...

M-T, I have a question; what is a woman supposed to wear with capri pants? If we can't wear sandals or heels, what should we wear?? I can't stand tennis shoes with capri pants. I think sandals are ok on men as long as they don't wear socks (particularly black dress socks! yeck!)...no offense to you sandal and sock wearers.

Ro, I am told that many women pierce their tongues for s#xual reasons....try not to think too hard about it, though.

Gotta go watch Extreme Makerover...looks like a good one.

Boo
July 02, 2007 - Msg 53871: Romeena can your friend [tv] friend get in touch with TOM?..hey hazel..peggy..feel better Millie!Boo its cooled off here a bit only a high of 87..but getting hotter at the end of the week..Boo now at the lake boo i wear the boat shoes so i want slip till i get in the boat...not attractive but functional...Rev will send you a plate in the morning..hey auh20,MDC,MD..mavis...possum..well no storms here now ..all lights are on...snack will be..butter pecan ice cream...M-T how are the young-uns doing?..Sterling you and Asa been out on the town...where is that Asa?..maybe getting a new pair of shoes...well let me find a movie...im here till 6 am...SPOT the"talking dog" of your porch!