August 10, 2007 - Msg 54859: Oh...and p.s. there porch pals...I had an e-mail from someone talking about the newsletter and how to get it. It would make me so proud if some of ya'll would like to sign up for it. It's not something that ever gets sold and is managed through a service called InJesus. It's very easy to sign up and easy to unsubscribe if you want.

I send out a newsletter about 1 time a week and it's usually about places we've been or are going. It's just a nice way to tell people about the ministry and remind you to keep us in your prayers. If you'd like to sign up...go to my website at

www.rodburtonmusic.com

and just fill out the little form there on the main page. I appreciate all your prayers...and thank you for your support.

We now return you to your regularly scheduled time of rockin.

Ya'll be good...

Goober...
YO!!!
August 10, 2007 - Msg 54860: Boy howdy...I come waltzin in here and pulled off a sweep....it's been a while, glad I could help!

Goober...
YO!!!
August 10, 2007 - Msg 54861:
Good one Goob!
Wow REV ...106. Sounds like our weather went east!
Can you believe it was 98 here on Wed.?!
Today is 105 only!
Prayers for Sterling and all. Hope Millie is doing ok.
God bless!
MDC
Barney: (to Thelma Lou) I'm a public servant and you're a very cute public.
August 10, 2007 - Msg 54862:
Hello porch family....A lot of prayer needs here tonight. But that's one thing we can do for each other.

Ro...that's a cute poem you wrote. Plum is a special part of our porch.

Sterling.... I'm praying for your situation. Does your wife go to church with you? A lot of good advice here but I truly believe if you continuely seek God He will lead you in the right choice. Jeremiah 29:13 says "You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart."

auh2o....I do watch other games but the Braves are my closest hometown team. Pretty much all the brave's games are on tv in this area. And yes, the Giants have a good pitching staff.

Asa....Today was another record breaker at 107 with very very hight humidity. They have "danger" alerts posted on all the local channels. Supose to drop down to 95 - 97 Saturday and Sunday. It's been unreal.

Hey the picnic sounds great.

Prayers for your concert Goober and that lives will be touched and changed by the power of Almighty God!

Spot...have a great trip. Prayers for safe travel.

Sure do pray that Milie is doing ok. Hope she can check in soon. Miss her.

Better go for now. You all have a great nights sleep and know that the Rev is praying for you all.
-REV.
August 10, 2007 - Msg 54863:
Hey there MDC....didn't mean to rock on your toe. Yes, I believe that AZ weather is over here but with high humidity.
-REV.
August 10, 2007 - Msg 54864: Good evening, all. Millie, please check in!

Go figure little Plum-puppies. I set her dinner in front of her this evening, and she just turned up her nose and refused. That's not allowed, because the medication she takes has to be given with food. I gave her a carrot, which she accepted and ate, but still she needs some real nourishment. She eats dry kibble, and sometimes I put steak sauce (just a drop or two) on it to encourage her, but that didn't work. I had just eaten some watermelon, and there was a bit of juice in the bowl I had eaten from. On impulse, I dipped a piece of her kibble in the watermelon juice and offered it to her from my fingers. She took it right away and ate it. Well, I sat there on the floor and dipped the whole bowl of kibble in watermelon juice and fed it to her, one little chunk at a time, until she had eaten every scrap! A bit spoiled, perhaps? Perhaps. But, who cares?

She says hey! --Romeena
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54865: Morning gang...well at work till 6 then off to the beach in the morning..hey Rev,boo...good sweep Goober!..Rev braves dropped one last night...HOT here...Asa lets fix breakfast...eggs your way,grits,sausage links,bisquits and gravy,hashbrowns,coffee,milk...ready at 7:00 est...back in a bit...prayers to all...SPOT
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54866: Well,today is the big picnic down at Myers Lake. Hope all will be able to make it.
Romeena, be sure to bring Plum. It promises to be a great time of Fellowship, good food, and "JUST SITTING BACK, RELAXING, AND TAKING IT EASY".
BIG JERRY
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54867: Ernest T. even let me borrow some of his rocks so we could have a "ROCK SKIPPING CONTEST" on Myers Lake.
BIG JERRY
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54868: Good morning, all. The Plum will enjoy a picnic. I'm bringing a blanket to spread on the ground, and one of her little beds so she'll have a comfortable place to sit and watch all the activity. Of course, if there are any laps available, she'll be happy to sit in them, too.

Big Jerry, considering the size of the rocks Ernest T. collects, I think you're gonna have a "rock sinking contest". I'd like to see the throwin' arm that could make one of those mini-boulders skip!

Well, we're off. Gotta take the Plum by to see Dr. Mike on the way to the picnic. She says hey! --Romeena
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54869: TRIBUTE TO GRANDMA

GRANDMA IS SUCH A WONDERFUL NAME,
I LOVE TO HEAR IT AGAIN AND AGAIN.
MY GRANDMA MEANT SO MUCH TO ME,
NOW ALL I HAVE IS A MEMORY-
OF HER BEAUTIFUL SMILE, HER SERENE FACE,
THE WAY SHE DID EVERYTHING WITH GRACE.
SHE LOVE US ALL WITH A FEELING SO STRONG,
AND MADE US FEEL WE COULD NEVER DO WRONG,
I MISS HER SO MUCH, BUT SHE'LL ALWAYS BE NEAR,
IN THE MEMORIES SHE MADE WITH ME YEAR AFTER YEAR.
AND I KNOW THAT SHE'S HAPPY WITH GOD UP ABOVE,
BUT I CAN STILL FEEL HER PRESENCE AND UNDYING LOVE!

TOM

August 11, 2007 - Msg 54870: That's just beautiful, Tom. I was blessed with being able to know both of my grandmothers, and they fit that poem perfectly. My dad's mom passed when I was only six, but I remember her very clearly. My dad was her "baby", the youngest of 11 children. My grandfather passed before I was born, and she lived with us, so I was very close to her. My mom's mother lived until I was about 22, and got to see and enjoy my first two kids. I spent a lot of time with her and my papa, and have very fond memories of her. The two of them lived with us when I was a teenager, so we had a close relationship. I feel very blessed, and your poem brought back a lot of memories. Thanks, Tom. --Romeena
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54871: I just found that in a box that had some old photo init.
ME grandma send it to me mon and said that fit her to a t wind it came to all the kids we help out .

TOM

August 11, 2007 - Msg 54872: Great Poem TOM,,Big J ya better ger some flat rocks like Ro said...Romeena has built a web site with some of our pics on it...get her some pics...she will post them!...the rest of yall need to also...skeered-d-cats!...lunch will be a salad with shreaded turkey and all the trimmins...kinda busy here at work...Asa my buddy meet me and Miss Sherry in Panama City and we will go deep sea fishing...got my big rods out yesterday...monsters!..caught a 4 ft. shark last time....well let me get back to work...SPOT
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54873: Good grief, Spot, what on earth do you do with a 4 ft shark, besides try to stay out of his way? No, wait, I don't think I want to know.

Well, guess I'd better get busy. This house is so dirty, and so cluttered. I've been so involved with the Plum lately that I've really let things slide and it shows. Gotta get it cleaned up - it's making me crazy.

Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54874: Romeena we were on a guided fish trip that year and the Cap of the boat got him off and grabbed him behind the head and I got a pic of me holding him with the Cap and he let him go...we always catch several 2 and 3 ft one off the pier...everybody bathers and works together to get them off ..they really aint to bad...lots of people keep the 12 to 18 inch one and eat them..Im not a shark steak lover..have eat them but most ot the time just give them away...watchng some DUMB move on the SciFi channel..got to find something else...SPOT
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54875: I'm ready for the picnic. Anybody need a ride? Now, I'll drive, so I'll sit up front...
- Hazel
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54876: I need to sit next to a window so the Plum can get plenty of fresh air. Anybody object? --Romeena
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54877: I just got back from an emergency haircut. I looked at my hair this morning and declared it an emergency. Fortunately, my hairdresser has cut my hair for 30 years and she will take me on a moment's notice if necessary, though I usually make appointments in advance. I declare, I think the two sides of my head aren't related to each other. My hair is wavy, at least the left side, top and back are. The right side is straight as a stick and has a mind of its own. I just wash it and comb it into place and it dries in an acceptably decent manner, except for that right side. It droops, or it sticks straight out, or it frizzes, or just whatever it can dream up to be annoying. This morning it looked like a worn-out paintbrush. So, now whatever it does, it won't do much of it, because it's SHORT! So there! Just that right side, she didn't even touch the rest of it. The left will lie back in waves, the top will wave and fluff, the back just sort of flips up, and the right will have to just sit there, because there's not enough of it left to do anything else! --Romeena
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54878: Shot gun Hazel!...ya hair cut will be cooler Romeena!..Big J I will bring the smoker to the lake party...a dozen or so chickens,tater salad,my big fish fryer and some shrimp and crab legs,big maude slaw!...Party is ON!..I will breing the horse shoes too,can anybody play a banjo?..I got one but cant play it very well..ladys will you string up some lights?..I will bring corn on the cobb too and fresh tomatoes...yeee hawww...we can swim too!...well let me get the reailer and smoker loaded up and Hazel you can pull it and I will ride with you...Asa jump in the back.....SPOT
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54879: How many watermelons should I bring? Don't forget the sunscreen, Dr P
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54880: Dr P better bring a half a dozen or so...Big J and Asa will be there!....SPOT
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54881: Good grief! I just went out back for a few minutes to clean the pond filter and regulate the emitters on the irrigation line in the rose bed, and my friends, it is HOT out there! I'm wringing wet with sweat (I blew past perspiring in the first three minutes) and I was only out there about twenty minutes. The house across the street is getting a new roof, and I absolutely do not understand how those men can work up there all day, standing on that black tar paper and all. Can you imagine how hot it must be up there? The weather thingie says it's 97 degrees, and the humidity is 42%, but I think the humidity is higher than that. It's hot, hot, hot! --Romeena
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54882: Ro,it was 117 here with the heat index on Thursday! It has been 100 degrees all week. So humid you can't breathe! My husband has been working outdoors in it all week.He comes home in the evening so beat down.I don't know how he does it. They don't even take breaks! I go outside for about 10 minutes-that's all I can handle. Dangerously hot over lots of the country.Hope we'll get a break soon from this oppressive heat.
Let's have the picnic someplace cool and shady! I've got the potato salad and a jug of sweet tea-see y'all there!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54883: Well gang the lake trip was great!..thanks Big J,im going to bed im going to pick Miss Shery up at 5am, head to Panama City Beach Fla!..will get on the motel internet to holler ..please say prayer for us a safe trip....love yall!..SPOT
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54884: Wow, I can't believe that we are the cool spot down here in South Texas on the coast. I think it was only 95 today. I just got back from the hill country, though, and it was plenty hot there! I think Austin was near 100. We had a nice little vacation and I did get some rest, REV. I thought of you folks a time or two, like when we ate at a place called Opie's Bar-B-Q, and when I saw a pink bed jacket in an antique store in Blanco. I also had a wonderful dinner at an old diner called The Bluebonnet Diner (in Marble Falls). It has been in business since the 1920's and my husband's grandmother actually worked there baking the pies years ago. It was some of the best food ever! We really enjoyed it. Glad to be home, though....I think. Already have some "friction" from the parents, though.

Sterling, my prayer for you and your family, my friend. So sorry for your difficulty. I am wondering if you should take that trip with your wife and maybe the two of you would benefit from being together, just the two of you for a few days? Just a thought, since you know Kai will be well cared for with her grandparents. Sometimes just getting away together and talking can do alot of good. Just a thought. I am praying that you and your wife will find a way through this thing, especially for Kai's sake. Again, I am so sorry for what you are going through but I am very glad that you feel comfortable enough to talk to us about it. I am wondering if you talking to your pastor might make you feel better, or give you some ideas on what steps to take next? Are you close enough to him to do that? I would encourage you to find another Christian man to share with so you don't feel like you are carrying this weight all by yourself.

Ro, I loved the poem you wrote about Sugarplum. It is so sweet, thanks for sharing it with us.

Would love to chat longer but have to go get Erin to bed. Church tomorrow and we are celebrating Erin's birthday tomorrow. She turned 6 last week. We are going to eat pizza after church and then come home for a little party with a cake and then a sleepover with a couple of her friends (call me crazy...because I am). Goodnight,

Boo
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54885: My stars, Possum! That's just ridiculous! Now tell me again where you are? Somehow, I thought you were in a place that wasn't so hot. I guess the whole country is pretty warm right now, though. At least we're in the middle of August, so another six weeks or so and it should start cooling down.

I'm enjoying TV Land's gracious presentation of several TAGS eps tonight. Now, I've always been a fan of Elvis Presley, but let me tell you, I'm getting pretty sick of all this Elvis stuff this month. The man has been gone 30 years. Give it a rest, for pete's sake! And I wish they wouldn't dwell on some of his last performances. He was obviously in bad health, and was a bloated caricature of his old self. His voice even showed his condition at times, though he still sounded good. Poor guy. I think he was a victim of his own fame.

Well, guess I'll go check on the Plum. She has slept most of the day, and only picked at her dinner. I wish I knew what to do to help her. Poor little baby, I guess I'll just continue to love her and pamper her as long as God leaves her with me. She's such a sweet little thing. --Romeena
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54886: Oh, my goodness, Boo. You ate at the Bluebonnet Cafe in Marble Falls? And Bruce's grandmother worked there? Well, so did my dad's sister. She waited tables there for years - lived in a little house in the country somewhere. I was only there once, and all I remember is it was on a wide spot in a river, with a beautiful waterfall about a hundred yards upstream, with a deep, clear swimming hole at the base of the falls. Anyway, she worked at the Bluebonnet for a long time. I wonder if she knew Bruce's grandma?

Well, I just did something I really didn't want to do, but figured I'd better. Someone nearby is playing some VERY loud music, the kind that you feel as much as hear it. You can feel the vibrations, and honey, that's loud! I'm not against folks having a good time, but this neighborhood is in transition right now, with a lot of people moving in who have a very different idea of what's acceptable. If no one makes a move to let them know that we prefer it quiet at night around here, how will they know? So, I called the police dispatcher. No, not 911, it's not an emergency. I just asked if they could have a squad car drop by and ask the folks to tone it down a little, just friendly-like. If it was the Darlings, I wouldn't mind, but this isn't their kind of music. This is blaring trumpets and big bass drums. I guess I'm just a gripy old lady, but I think we need to nip this in the bud! Some of these folks are the kind that race up and down the streets at 3 a.m., and you find beer bottles in your front yard the next day, and a neighbor's truck was stolen and another was vandalized. As I said, our nice, quiet neighborhood is changing, and I for one intend to let them know that they may have come to the wrong place, unless they decide to try to assimilate. We'll handle it nicely at first, and hope that will do it. A shame, isn't it? --Romeena
August 11, 2007 - Msg 54887:
Howdy porch family. Enjoyed the picnic. I ate too much.

Boo...good to see ya back from your trip. Glad you had a good time. Wish Erin a Happy Birthday for me.

Tom...loved the poem. Sure brought my grandmothers to mind.

Spot...you and Miss Sherry have a great time. Prayers for you both as you travel.

Ro...that is a shame that you have to put up with that kind of mess. Did the police tone them down?

Well better to bed. Got a busy day tomorrow. Prayers for all the porch family. Remember Jesus loves us!
-REV.

August 12, 2007 - Msg 54888: Thanks REV!

Romeena, NO WAY!! You mean your aunt worked at the Bluebonnet Cafe? What a small world (or should I say "small state"). Did you ever eat at the Bluebonnet? I think it would be safe to say that your aunt most likely knew Bruce's grandmother. She lived there for many years and worked at the cafe for a long time, too. She lived in a trailor down by the river and when Bruce was a little boy and they visited her, she make tell the kids to take a bar of soap and go down to the river to bathe. Needless to say, they loved it. He also remembers her taking them up to the Bluebonnet to eat (they walked, of course). Marble Falls was a very small town then, it has grown like crazy. They were having some kind of boat races there this weekend and we couldn't even get a motel room. The Cafe has enlarged and added two large rooms, but Bruce and his mom tell me alot has stayed the same about it. I know they still bake lots of pies. I shared a peice of chocolate pie with Erin while we were there. I also bought a T-shirt with the name of the Cafe on it and a coffee mug. It really was fun...felt alot like Mayberry.

Better go to bed for real this time.

Give Suparplum an extra pat for me...

Boo
August 12, 2007 - Msg 54889: ...and also, Ro, Bruce's grandfather owned the barber shop in town. His name was Fritz and he was a German immigrant. I have seen old pictures of Bruce's grandma and she had a man's haircut (I guess it was the only knid of haircut her husband knew how to do). She was a really tough looking woman who one could easily mistake for a man. I also learned this weekend that Bruce's great-grandfather on his mother's side brought his family from California to the Austin area by covered wagon. He is said to have brought the first Swedish bible to Texas and it is displayed in a museum in San Antonio. I haven't seen it yet but I hope to soon. So, Bruce has alot of Texas heritage. I don't have much. Both of my parents were from elsewhere, originally. Mom was from West Virginia and Dad from Louisianna.

Nighty-Night...

Boo
August 12, 2007 - Msg 54890: Yep, she sure enough did work there. For a number of years, I think. She lived in Marble Falls, or thereabouts, for a very long time. She'd never be very far from water - loved to fish, or just sit and look at the ripples. Married five times, lived a somewhat different life from the rest of her family, but naturally, she was one of my favorite aunts. Sort of a poor man's version of Auntie Mame. When she lived in San Antonio, and her husband at the time would be out of town, my folks would let me go and stay with her because she was afraid to stay alone, of all things. It would not be at all unusual for her to wake me at 3 a.m., wanting me to help her bake cookies. Ha! We did have a lot of fun. She always had a couple of c0cker spaniels, and was a big influence on my love of dogs, I think. She loved them too.

Yes, Rev, within about ten minutes of my phone call, the music quieted way down. I thought it was gone completely until I opened my back door, and then I could hear it very faintly. I'm glad I didn't totally rain on their party, but they really did need to turn the volume down. When you can hear it loud and clear with the house closed up and the a/c and TV on, it's too loud. It sounded like it was at least a block away, so I can't imagine how the near neighbors were faring. I'm sure I wasn't the only caller.

Well, I'm off to bed. Gotta get up for preachin' in the morning. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
August 12, 2007 - Msg 54891: Boo, my mother's father was called Fritz, though his name was Frederick Albert. I guess Fritz is a nickname for Frederick. His family came to Texas by wagon, though I'm not sure from where. Her mother's father was a member of the Old Traildriver's Association, and actually drove cattle over the Chisholm Trail. I have his vest, and his Old Traildriver's badge. I also have his little eyeglasses, which had belonged to HIS grandfather, and date back to the late 1700's. They look like a child's glasses, and the vest is tiny, too. I guess people just weren't as big back then. There are also a couple of sleeve-holders, which resemble garters. In the pocket of the vest there's a small bag of Bull Durham tobacco, some cigarette papers and a little box of matches. There's also a picture of my mom at about age five, with her grandfather, who was very old at the time. All of this is now mounted in a glass case that hangs on my den wall. I'll try to get a clear picture of it and will put it in the porch album.

I'm very proud to have these things, and am considering leaving them to the Witte Museum in San Antonio, which is probably the same one where Bruce's great-grandfather's Bible is displayed. Texas heritage, and a bit of Americana as well. --Romeena
August 12, 2007 - Msg 54892: Well, I got a few pictures, but I think I can do better. Will try again tomorrow, maybe using a different camera. --Romeena
August 12, 2007 - Msg 54893: Great, would love to see those pictures, Ro. Very interesting about your grandfather.

Can you believe it's 4:45am and I am wide awake. I just have been tossing and turning all night and finally got up...no idea why I am so restless tonight. I don't feel anxious or anything. Think I'll try to go back to bed and see if I can fall asleep...

Boo
August 12, 2007 - Msg 54894: Well I don't know how anyone is supposed to sleep around here with Romeena and Boo up half the night yaking away on the porch. I declare I was dreaming I was eating at some cafe in Texas and my waitress was some guy named Fritz (althought his name tag said Fred) and after dinner he gav me a bar of soap and go down to the river and bathe. It was a strange night to say the least.

Asa
August 12, 2007 - Msg 54895: Ha! Asa,you are too much! Why don't you head over to your night job at Weaver's Dept. store next time you need some sleep? I've heard you always get a lot of rest over there! I think maybe you ate too much at the picnic-I saw you over there gobbling up homemaker's meatballs when you thought no one was looking!
Ro,we live in the Lowcountry of SC-about 40 miles from Charleston. Summers are always very hot,but this past week has really been rough. Don't think it's any cooler at 10pm-I walked outside the other night and temp might have dropped to about 90! All I do is stay under my rock and if I have to go shopping,etc.,it's early morning. I'm ready to see the leaves falling and feel some cool breezes!
Ditto about Elvis on TVLand,Ro! And those incessant movies! Give me Andy & Barn any day!

Y'all have a good Sunday-love to all.
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock

Gomer: "Hey Mister..you're all tied up to a tree!"


August 12, 2007 - Msg 54896: Oh, yes, Possum, those miserable movies! For some reason, their commercial just irritates me to no end. "And now, we've got your movies!" I think they have about six under contract, and they just keep running them over and over and over and over and.... And yes, I know they show the same sitcom reruns over and over, but somehow that's okay. A movie is a movie. Unless it's really something top drawer, like TKAM, once I've seen it, that's enough. If I want to see it again, I'll rent or buy the DVD.

It's very hot here again. It was 104 according to my car on the way home. Very hot, and not a breath of breeze moving. I got home and walked into the cool house so gratefully, glanced through the window and realized the fountain wasn't running out at the pond. Oh no. The fish won't survive out there very long if the water isn't aerated and moving, so had to go back out there in the heat. The filter didn't look too dirty, but I pulled it anyway and brought it over to my big rock to wash the filter medium. Not all that dirty, but I washed it, already feeling pretty sure the thing wasn't going to run when put back together. Sure enough, it didn't. Thinking I'd have to go buy a new pump and install it, I ran the lines anyway, and joy of joys, found a connection that had come loose. Hooked it back up, and it's running! Hooray! I wasn't looking forward to spending the money, and sure wasn't happy about having to install a new one. Hooking up the part in the water isn't all that hard, but the power cord is buried from the pond to the plug, about eight feet, and has to pass beneath the liner stones at the edge of the pond. Hot work!

Well, I feel a big glass of tea calling to me, and a little Plum cuddling, too. She says hey! --Romeena


August 12, 2007 - Msg 54897:
Ro- have you ever eaten at the Ilamamora Fish Co. in Dallas? My wife and I ate at the new one here that is attached to the bass Pro Shop. Very good seafood. Liked it better than Red Lobster.
Hiope you all have a good Sabbath. No squeezins bein' the Sabbath! ha, Prayers continue for all.
God bless the miners.Hope they can find them.
MDC
August 12, 2007 - Msg 54898:
When does MT come back from vacation? We need a good moulage, and i dont mean the plaster kind! ha
SPot, Rev, MD- anyone see the Nextel Cup race?
I tried skipping one of Ernest T's rock and all I got was WET! ha The wake was amazing!
Well, gotta run. Band concert under the stars.
MDC
August 12, 2007 - Msg 54899: I believe M-T comes back around the 20th, MDC!

We have the original Bass Pro Shops here in Springfield (where I used to work, I might add) and they have a Hemingway's restaurant - which I would guess is similar to the Islamorada Fish Co that you visited. I would agree that their seafood is pretty fine.

Stay in out of the heat if you can folks. It's around 102° here, and we're anticipating 104° tomorrow. Thankfully we have somewhat of a breeze, although it's not cool by any stretch of the imagination. Congrats on that new A/C homemaker. I feel your pain - we don't have CA either. Hubby found a window unit on clearance at Lowe's so we have a little bit of cool in the main part of the house now.

Hope all are having a restful Sabbath. Prayers continue for the needs among us. God bless ya'll.
AFD
August 12, 2007 - Msg 54900: Evening all....still blessed with better than normal south TX weather. High so far this year is 95F and a normal year would be counting the number of days of 100+....like so far would have been 20 or so. But, did go out and do some mowing...wasn't going to do so much so got out the rotory push mower. Thirty minutes and I was soaked and my legs were getting weak. Have just this week started having to water...we are over our yearly average of rain. No water rationing as in the past few years.

Boo, Bluebonnet Cafe is another on my list of places to eat. For lunch you have to plan to be there at 11 if you want a seat. Breakfast is also great. So few places like that left....(mentioned before....Tip Top etc.). Another if headed west on I-10 is Isaak's in Junction. Lunch still comes with a cup of home made vegetable soup and a cake slice. Everything fresh. Still have trouble accepting the chains, everything prepaired, preporpotioned and just put in the microwave or dumped in the fry pot. Corporqte managent tries to keep costs down for higher profits....so you can eat 'dirt' cheap. Off my soap box on eating....and guess you all know what I enjoy.

Romeena, be happy you are the one to have Plum in her golden days. Just think what it would be like for her if it were the other way around. Some years ago we lost a wonderful neighbor who had Annie, a little minature grey Poodle. Long story, but Elayne fell and broke her hip and the hospital (managed by Columbia Health Care) gave her the wrong meds....and killed her. Poor little Annie never got over it....last I saw of her she was grieving away.

Supper tonigh....nothing since breakfast....and didn't get to Albertsons...sirloin steak out of the freezer, after thawed and it is...one time thru the grinder on a cource plate, mix with one egg, salt and pepper. Roll into one inch balls, then roll in matzo meal. Brown in real butter. When browned, add water...a garlic clove crushed and simmer for 45 minutes. Serve over buttered egg wide noodles.

Enough rambling...may God show His blessing on us all.
ray


August 12, 2007 - Msg 54901: I remember when my mom and dad moved to Michigan. It was a company move, or they'd have never left Texas. Anyway, they moved to Battle Creek and lived there for two years, then transferred back to Texas. When they bought their home up there, it didn't have a/c, and the realtor convinced my dad they wouldn't need it. Being January, they didn't. Then came July. I thought they were going to melt into puddles. My dad spent about a week in that heat, and ordered central a/c installed! He laughed for years, at himself for actually believing the realtor. --Romeena
August 12, 2007 - Msg 54902:
Hello porch family. Good to see everyone on this wonderful Lord's day.

Boo & Ro...that's a neat story about the cafe in Texas. If ya'll keep talking and searching you gonna end up being cousins. heehee But seriously, it is a small world when you here of things like that.

MDC..nope I didn't get to see much of the race today because I had a concert. But I got to see all the news clips after I got home. Wild one!

Thanks for supper ray.

Spot....Did you make it safe to Florida?

TAGS is my very favorite but I also love Sanford and Son. So last night I got all six seasons of S&S on dvd. So now I have TAGS and S&S in the motorhome to keep me entertained while on the road. Good stuff!

Well kinda tired so I'm gonna hit the bed. Prayers for all the porch family.
-REV.


August 12, 2007 - Msg 54903: Good evening, all. No, MDC, I've never eaten at the restaurant you mentioned. Will have to look it up and try it, loving seafood as I do.

Rev, you have just demonstrated that there's something for everyone. For me, when it comes to "Sanford and Son", a little goes a long way. I was channel-surfing last night, though, and ran across some episodes of "Coach". I used to watch it when it was original, and had forgotten how funny it really was. The casting was superb. Jerry Van Dyke as Luther was an inspired choice, and Craig T. Nelson played the not-all-that-dumb jock/coach perfectly. There are so many old shows that I'd like to see again. Some are shown on local channels, some on cable or satellite channels, and some are in oblivion. I wish they could be restored. I'd love to see "Barney Miller" brought back, or the wonderful "WKRP". "As God is my witness, I swear I thought turkeys could fly!" What a classic line. Remember Les Nesman's radio coverage as the turkeys plummeted to earth? "Oh, the humanity!" Oh, the comedy! I loved it.

Sugarplum has had a pretty discouraging day. Has mostly slept, appetite is down, stays in one spot unless she just has to get up to potty. She perks up when spoken to, but that's about all. I don't know what's going to happen here, but I don't care for the way it's going right now.

Prayers for all who need them, good friends. --Romeena
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54904: I am so sorry Romeena. I wish she would feel better. It's good she is in no pain. My prayers go up for both of you.

Has anyone heard from Millie? I'm worried about her. Maybe a special prayer this morning for her and her family would be good.

I thought WKRP was a hoot. Les Nesman and the turkey give away ep was great. I loved how he had tape down on the floor for his walls and you better enter through the doorway. I'd like to see some of the old dramas too. Streets of San Francisco, The Fugitive, Dragnet, Adam-12.

Is it really Monday already? Mercy sakes, where did the weekend go?

Asa
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54905:
Morning Porch

The Texas-Gang, Asa, MDC and, I guess come to think of it, everyone in the south-Here in Western New York, we've never seen a 100 degree day and I'm not quite sure I want to. I don't know how you folks do it year in and year out. About the time when we get up into the 90's it's still the coolest region in the country. Ray, you spoke about water rationing, how does that work? We very seldom have water table issues around here, next to never.

Rev-Just as soon as I mention Tim Lincecum, the Giants pitcher, he has is worst outing since high school, haha. Could you believe that race yesterday, what a finish. Watkins Glen is just up the road from my porch. It is always hard for me to believe that major races take place there, the place is so small.

I see that evil Karl Rove has resigned. After what he did to New Orleans with that mechanic weather devise of his and then to make those people reelect the very same governor and mayor that left them out to hang, why he's a regular Svengali, he is.

auh2o
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54906: Yes, Asa, I'm worried about Millie too. I haven't heard from her for about a week.
I'm so sorry about Plum, Romeena. My thoughts are with you.
- Hazel

Barney: "Well you just let John Masters trot 'em out. And I'll take 'em; one at a time."
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54907: Prayers for Millie..

Interesting dream, ASA! Hope Fritz served you some pie before he sent you for your bath.

Ray, I guess the Bluebonnet Cafe is more popular than I realized. I know the chicken fried steak was worth traveling for. I pass through Junction most every year and now I will be looking for Isaak's. You were speaking of the weather being cooler than usual in your parts and I noticed on my little trip this week that everything was much greener than usual for this time of year. I even saw some fields with wildflowers. Have you ever taken the curvy road between Austin and Marble Falls...the one that passes through Lago Vista (maybe it's 186)? What a scenic drive. Everything was so green! I agree with you completely on the food thing. I always seek out the old cafes to avoid fast food when I'm traveling. I have eaten in some really great places throughout Texas, New Mexico and Colorado.

Ro, I am dissapointed to hear that Sugarplum is having a bad day, poor little thing. Prayers for her and you today. You mentioned your parents experience in Michigan. As I think I have mentioned before, I spent alot of time in the summers in Michigan as I was growing up. My mother's parents and siblings lived there in a little town called Royal Oak. It was very Mayberry-like back then. Big Oak trees covering the streets, a quaint little uptown with a five and dime, a movie theater, bookstore, etc. My cousins and I were free to ride our bikes all over town and down to the corner drug store for candy necklaces, 7 up popsicles, and comic books. What a grand time we had! There was even an A&W rootbeer stand down the road that served huge soft-serve cones, which we would get, ride home and sit on the front porch at night and eat, while grandma and the ladies chatted while sitting on the glider and grandpa listened to the Tiger's games on his radio. Boy, I really miss those days. Seems like everyone is gone now except for one Aunt who is in her 60's. I still have some cousins scattered around but we don't keep in contact anymore. Anyway, I remember the nights being very cool. Nobody had air conditioning but if it got a little hot during the day, it was always sweater weather in the evening. I can still remember the feeling of that fresh, cool air in the evenings, being barefoot with a sweater on and sitting by my grandma on the glider. Sometimes I would lay down with my head in her lap (which was ALWAYS covered by a homemade apron...which I have a couple I am saving) and she would stroke my head. It always amazed me that her hand felt just like mom's hands. Sorry to go one so about it, I just got caught up in a memory.

Better go check on the clothes. Busy day, I still have 5 sleeping children on my hands this morning to feed breakfast to (Erin had her sleep-over last night).

Boo




August 13, 2007 - Msg 54908: Good Monday porch, checking in for a minute. Prayers for Romeena and Sugar Plum, and Millie and family. Thinking about all of you. My kids started back to school today. Prayers for all the schools, teachers and students. Lunch will be at Olive Garden today, my treat. Big Maude
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54909: You know, as I was proof reading my post, I was thinking about how different the average childhood is now than back in the 60's. How sad that many kids will never experience the kinds of things we did as kids. Now it's all about video games and TV or being rushed to various activities. Kids are also under alot of pressure in school these days. Sad that it seems they just don's get to be kids the same way we did. I mean, how many children today would be content to sit on the front porch at night and look at the stars while listening to their relatives tell stories about the old days? Back then, the routine was almost always the same. Mama's made a good supper, everyone ate and then got out of the kitchen until it cooled off. The place to go from there was out on the porch, where it was always cooler, and nothing to do out there except communicate with each other.....

Boo
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54910: Romeena, sorry to hear about Plum's condition.
BIG JERRY
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54911: Well, it looks like I didn't have to flip that coin after all. After the wife came home from work Friday she told me that she bought my ticket from work. Don't really know how I feel about that. Can't say I'm thrilled to go to Las Vegas.

Yeah Boo, I do have people I can talk to, but I also know that in the end it is you that has to make the decision. Others can guide, but they can't choose for you, and you just have to hope that you made the right choice, I guess.
And about kids slowing down, Boo, that is why I try to take Kai out often for our little walks, and trips to the library and such. We'll walk around the lake and talk, and if it is later in the day, sit on a bench and watch the sun go down, with the orange beams reflecting across the water. One time she told me, "It's so beautiful I almost cried."
I just wish we had a porch. That's one thing I wanted in a house, but we bought this one that doesn't have one. Oh, it has a little patio section out back with some furniture we put out there, but half the time we can't sit back there because the birds do their business on the chairs.
I remember the hot, sweltering nights when I grew up, and would sit on the porch. Even though we didn't have air conditioning, those were some of the best times.

-Sterling Holobyte
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54912: Ro,sorry about the Plum. Fritz is my husbands nickname, our last name is Frederick and he is a Jr so he's been Fritz since he was little. Boo, reading your post reminds me of a quote from Laura Ingalls Wilder " Some old-fashioned things like fresh air and sunshine are hard to beat. In our mad rush for progress... lets be sure we take along with us all the old-fashioned things worthwhile." Asa, after that dream you better take a nap on the cot in the back room at the courthouse. We're hot here ,too the dew point was 76% at 6:30 this morning,I took the dogs for their morning walk before sun up.I think I'll head over to Walker's drugstore and have a rootbeer float. take it easy in the heat. Peace Dr P
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54913: Hello, cherished friends. Sorry to get y'all worried about me(again), but I guess I need all the prayers I can get. Since last Wednesday I've been in bed(except when I walk 4 steps to the restroom) and I've been very, very sick. Haven't held down any food in 4 days, lots of pain, I'm very weak. Today they are putting me in the hospital to build me back up and see what's going on. And I guess I'm glad. So, I might not be able to check in for awhile. I appreciate all y'all's prayers so much.....this porch is such a blessing to me. You all take care, and I'll check in when I can.
Love to everyone....
Millie
Gomer..."Why don't you just run up an alley and holler fish!"
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54914: Good morning, all. Sterling, somehow I feel encouraged about your wife buying the plane ticket. It sounds to me like she really wants you to go along, and that's got to be a good thing. From an earlier post, I had the impression that you thought she was taking you along to keep her out of trouble. Sterling, that really doesn't fly. If she wanted to misbehave, she wouldn't ask you to go, she'd discourage you! I think she really wants you there. I also think you would be wise to go, make up your mind to have a good time and enjoy being together. I'm not a gambler either, and naturally care nothing for the girlie shows, but there's more to Las Vegas than that. There are other shows that are really superb. The new hotels are marvels of design, and well worth seeing. Some of the best food in the world is served out there, and a lot of it is free! The opportunities to people-watch are abundant, and you do see some sights.

My husband and I were out there way back in 1974, and we had a great time. I had a $20 bill, and made up my mind that it was for entertainment. I changed it into nickels, and spent two evenings just playing the nickel slots with it! I don't even know if they have nickel slots anymore, but I had fun. My agreement with myself was that when the $20 was gone, that was it, and I stuck to it. If I hadn't, my moral and frugal husband would have yanked my leash pretty quick! I won and lost more nickels than you can count, and came away even, and I had fun and ate probably $200 worth of shrimp, so I figure I was a winner. I say put the most positive spin on it that you can muster, go and have a good time. Kai will be fine, and maybe you and your wife will mend some hurts and discover each other again.

The Plum is simply refusing her kibble, so I've gotten her some soft food, which she eats very well. Right now I'm not going to argue with her about what she eats. The poor little thing is so weak, and has lost so much muscle in her hips and back legs. I just don't know how much longer this can go on. Please pray for us.

WHERE IS MILLIE? I'm getting very concerned about her. Dear girl, please check in! --Romeena
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54915: Well, ask and ye shall receive! Though the news isn't too good, at least we heard from Millie. Folks, we've got some praying to do here! --Romeena
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54916: Millie, I am sorry to hear that you are ailing. Hope you get well soon and be back on the porch rocking.
BIG JERRY
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54917: I'm sorry your not doing well Millie. You certainly have my prayers for you dear one. Your family is also in my prayers.

Sterling, I agree 100% with what Romeena has said. Your wife wants you there so go and enjoy yourself. Spend some good quality time together and enjoy the sights. There are many free and fun things to do there as Ro mentioned. Treasure Island puts on a great show about every hour and a half out in front of it's complex. The Mirage has a volcano go off every half hour or so there. The Bellagio has a water show to music every hour that is fabulous. Get over to Freemont Street at night and see the show that goes on there. These are all free and well worth going to see. The Tropicana has an afternoon magician who does a show that is not expensive and very family friendly. If you go looking to be offended and miserable you most likely will be. But if you go with the idea of enjoying yourself and enjoting time with your sweetheart, I think you'll come away with some fond memories. As Mr. Tucker would say. DO IT! FOR THE LOVE OF MIKE, JUST DO IT! GO TO VEGAS! GO WITH YOUR WIFE! HAVE A GOOD TIME! JUST DO IT! :)

Asa
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54918: You're absolutely right, Asa. I'm not so dumb as to suggest that there's not a lot of stuff going on in Vegas that's not exactly, shall we say, "Christian"? If you look for it, you'll find it, and you won't have to look very hard. There is, however, as you pointed out, a great deal that's perfectly acceptable.
When my husband and I were there, it was a company "win" and we were with a group, so one night we were taken to a show that we probably wouldn't have chosen ourselves. There was the obligatory girlie show, and I've seen bigger costumes on Barbie dolls. My husband was watching, seemingly entranced, so imagine my surprise when he turned to me and whispered, "Look at their eyes. They're flat, there's no expression. The girls are dancing, but they're not really here. I guess it's the only way they can deal with what they're doing." I guess it's hard to corrupt a good man.

The next day was mostly unscheduled time, so we rented a car and drove out into the desert, and really enjoyed the scenery. There's a lot to do out there besides the casinos. When we were there, the casinos were about all there was in town, but as you said, Asa, there's a lot more there now. My son goes about twice a year on business, and he really enjoys it. He says some of the stuff is just spectacular.

Well, that's my input. As Asa said, Sterling, go! Just do it! I think you may be glad you did. --Romeena
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54919: Wow, that is really touching that Dale had that reaction to the showgirls. What a guy. I am really looking forward to meeting him someday.

Prayers for Millie Dear. Bless her heart, she sounds so tired. I hope she knows how much we love her and that it comforts her somehow. Wish we could actually be there for her in body and not only in spirit.

Sterling, I know you are feeling conflicted about the trip but I really hope you are pleasantly surprised by it.

Nice LA Wilder quote, Dr P. Thanks for sharing.

Whew, it is hot here today!! Had to spend the day in town and feel like I got baked. Sean had to have a test for his blood sugar that took 2 hours and 3 needle sticks, poor kid.

Well, better go vegetate for a few minutes.

Boo
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54920:
Wow, what great memories to cherish, BOO. As you know, i have shared my late fifties, early sixties here, and the things our IMAGINATIONS came up with were pretty amazing! A refrigerator shipping carton became anything from a spaceship to a covered wagon to a secret meeting place. But to have those memories of your head on your aunt's lap, and then to now have the very aprons can almost make a grown man tear up! But I'll never admit it! ha
Sterling- I understand you bro, and tho I do not support the "when in Rome.." philosophy, I do support what the others here are saying, that even tho you may be in Rome, you dont hasve to go to the coleseum, just enjoy the time with your family that will be enough. It's a time away from the everyday routine of home. Our prayers will be with you too, so hang in there my friend.
Also prayers for Millie, plum, troops, Colt, miners and all in need.
And may Merv Griffin Rest in peace!
Have a good one.
MDC
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54921: Thanks MDC, but it was my grandma and not my aunt, which makes it even more touching, don't you think?? hehe...now, "don't cry or I'm a gonner"! Boy, you're right about those refrigerator boxes. There was no greater find than a refrigerator box. We liked to snoop behind the old Western Auto (did ya'll have those?) and try to find them. We had more fun with those things...we used to like to put each other down inside of one and then put kids on each side on the outside and jerk the tarnation out of the box. The kid inside experienced a whiplash now and then but it was fun. Also cut windows in them and made some neat houses.

I remember something while thinking of the Western Auto. It had a small toy section and I remember those plastic toy high heels that we girls used to like to wear. Any of you remember those? They had little elastic bands to hold them on? I also remember some funky fake wigs for kids that were made of plastic...no strands of hair, just kind of a pliable, think plastic mold of a hair-do that fit over the head like a helmet. They came brown, black and blonde, I think. Any of you ladies have one when you were a kid?

Boo