August 13, 2007 - Msg 54922:
Boo, we sure did have western auto and also Yellow Front. Did TX have yellow Front? Kinda a combo western, camping type store.
Gotta run for tonight.
Sorry, i meant grandma
MDC

August 13, 2007 - Msg 54923: Just checking in after a brief vacation with family to Florida where we enjoyed a very relaxing week. Sorry to hear that Millie is ailing. Hope they can pep her back up in the hospital. Also hope that Sugarplum can get to feeling better. So sorry, Romeena. I'm sure you must be very worried about your little pal. Have sure been enjoying the episodes of Andy that TVLand has been showing--many that I hadn't seen in a long time--Helen and Andy in the cave, Call the Man, Aunt Bee, Charlene's divorce, and others. Good to see you all. Good prayer on the previous page, MDC. Glad Asa is back. Hope your wife is doing much better too. By the way, Asa, my 16-year-old son hit a hole-in-one last night. Boy, was he excited. (Some of you might recall I had some class reunion pics of him and me playing golf on a website a couple years ago.)
Charlotte Tucker
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54924: Ha ha, Asa! You make me laugh with your paraphrasing of the Mr. Tucker quote. Thank you. The world doesn't seem quite as scary when you can interject some Mayberry into it.

Hope you feel better, Millie. We're still pulling, and praying, for you.

I'm not really looking forward to working these next three days. Doesn't seem like much, but this job really takes a lot out of you. I know I am tired even after the first day. I think it is cleaning the meat dept(which I do every time I work) which is the most draining. That place is a bear to clean.
So I am still looking for another job. I did receive the dreaded letter from that insur@nce place I wanted to work for. You know, the one that says, "we thank you for applying and going through our arduous interviewing process, but we shafted you and hired someone else." ;)
Still waiting(and calling) on the maintenance job at the resort. No word yet from them.
But, I'll keep plugging along until something better comes along.

Good to see you, Charlotte. Glad you had a nice vacation.

-Sterling Holobyte


August 13, 2007 - Msg 54925:
Hello porch family. Good seeing you all on the porch tonight.

Continued prayers for Ro and little Sugerplum.

Millie...thank you so much for checking in and letting us know what's going on even though I'm sure you didn't feel like it. My prayers and love are always sent your way.

auh2o.... yep that race had a wild finish. The Giants are playing the Braves real soon. I think they start tomorrow.

Boo...you are so right about the kids today have missed so much. That story brought back so many fond memories. And Boo we still have an old Western Auto store in my little town. There used to be a store called Southern Auto when I was a kid. Speaking of memories, I remember my grandmother used to make frozen pops on a stick and we thought that was the greatest treat on a hot summer day. We would be out playing and she would call us over and make us all sit on the porch and eat it. I really long for those days.

Charlotte Tucker....so good seeing you. Glad your vacation was good. Congrats to your son. Wow, good shot!

Well better go for now. Everyone have a great night and prayers for all.
-REV.


August 13, 2007 - Msg 54926: Sorry about the job, Sterling...must be dissapointing. Your current job must be very hard, indeed. I hope things take a turn for the better soon in the job department.

MDC, I never heard of Yellow Front...don't think there are any in Texas..could be wrong.

Hey Charlotte, drop in more often. Glad you had a nice vacation in Florida.

I think I will go to bed, been a long day with lots of activity (some good, some bad). Bruce and my dad got into a disagreement today. Poor old dad is just getting tougher to live with all the time and this situation is really not a healthy one. I think we will be moving out soon and into an apartment until the house is built. We will still be nearby and I will check on mom and dad daily. It is just time to move out.

Goodnight,

Boo
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54927:
Boo...By the way, if you go to my website (rockymorrismusic.com) and click on the "Our Hometown" page, there is a pic of the Western Auto store. It's the store directly in front of the flag pole. It has a little red car parked in front. And pretty much what you see in the pic is the whole town of Prosperity. It's kinda like a Mayberry of today.
-REV.
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54928: Oh Hey there, REV. I know what you mean...I miss those days like crazy. What special times and we are so blessed to have those wonderful childhood memories, aren't we? I am hoping that heaven will be alot like those memories of childhood and carefree, sunny days spent with the people we love....

Boo
August 13, 2007 - Msg 54929: Hey thanks, I'll go to your website!

Boo
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54930:

Just checking in. Great to hear from you, Millie. So sorry you're having a rough time. Prayers for you.

Also, prayers for Sugarplum, Ro. I hope she continues eating the canned food well.

REV., checked out your wonderful web site. It is proof positive that a web site can be well-designed, pleasing to the eye, yet fast to load and easy to navigate. Btw, you have an outstanding singing voice! I also enjoyed the jokes.

My thoughts are with everyone suffering this sweltering heat. C'mon, fall!

~DeS~
.
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54931: Morning folks and friends.

Hiya Des, alawys goodto see you.

Charlotte, that is wonderful about your son. How long a hole and what club did he use? Good to see you too.

I hope you have a good trip Sterling. And good luck on the other job.

Continued prayers for Millie and Sugarplum and all who need them.

Rev, has things cooled off any for you? We were 102 yesterday. Still pretty dry though. We need some gypsies around here who can do a rain dance.

Auh2o, so what did you think about the Iowa straw poll? I was watching the talking heads on Sunday and they were all going on about how meaningless it is. And I thought to myself, if it's so meaningless who's the biggest fools, them for doin it, you guys for covering it, or me for wasting a Sunday morning watching you tell me how meaninless it is? I decided it was a 3 way tie! LOL

Asa
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54932: Morning Dears, Good to see everyone today. My kids are back in school. I can not believe I have a Junior in High School and an 8th grader already. Hopefully they will have a good year.
Prayers for Millie, Romeena and Plum as well as everyone else. Lunch will be: grilled chicken, grilled veggies, oven potatoes, fresh fruit and pound cake with whipped cream. sweet or unsweet tea to drink. see you at lunch time. Gotta get to work. Have a blessed day. Big Maude
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54933: 102, ASA?! Wow...stay cool somehow. Funny comment about the talking heads. It reminds me of something my sister told me the other day. She said that Angelina Jolie held a press conference to announce to the world that she was giving up women for Brad Pitt. Now, did she really need a news conference for that and who really cares? Even the news commentators asked that question but they were still there in droves to cover the event. Idiocy.

Hey DES, good to hear from you. I, too, spent some time on REV's site last night and it enjoyed it very much. Some of those jokes were really hilarious. I especially like the one about "Harold's dog".

Well, better finish my coffee and get to work. I think I will be doing some apartment hunting today. Wish me luck!

Boo
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54934: Hey Maude, didn't see you there! How does it feel to have the kids back in school? Mine start on Monday and I am ready for it (I think). Back to routine.

Boo
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54935: Mornin' Y'all. Prayers for our friend Millie. I know y'all feel like me-I'd gladly take one of those bad days for Millie so that she didn't have to suffer.

Sterling,you hang in there.Wishing for lots of good things to come out of your trip to Vegas.

Western Auto! I kind of grew up in one! I had a good friend in 4th grade whose parents owned the one in town. After school we'd play in the store-had the run of the place until a customer came in.Then we'd go hang out in one of the little offices and watch tv. Matter of fact,my friend Sharon told me a 4th grader's version of the birds & the bees while sitting out in front of the Western Auto! Man,I haven't thought about any of that in ages!

Coffee & donuts for everybody- enjoy!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54936: Good mornin' porch! Continued prayers for our Millie. Romeena, check in and let us know how Sugarplum is progressing. Hello back at ya, Sterling, Rev, and Boo. Asa, I'll have to give you the particulars on the hole-in-one later as I don't know. I think he used an iron so it must've been on a par 3. He said the shot made a large ball mark as it hit the green and then just rolled right in. Hope some of you are in a cooler place today. It is very hot here. Prayers for the miners and their families.
Charlotte Tucker
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54937: Hey possum.
Charlotte Tucker
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54938: Thanks for them prayers for the miners Charlotte. That's only a couple hundred miles from my place and it has been wonderful to see the entire State pull together on this. Sadly the westboro baptist church has said they will be coming to the funeral services to offer their typical protests if indeed the miners are not found alive. This group is a disgrace not only to Christians but to the entire human race. They disgust me.

Asa
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54939: ASA,Who IS THIS GROUP FROM WESTBORO BAPTIST CHURCH?
BIG JERRY
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54940:
Hello porch family. Just checking in real quick.

Thanks DeS for your kind words.

Boo...I believe heaven will be like that and much, much more.

Asa...100 today & calling for 100-102 all week long. Hot and very, very dry.

Maude....thanks for lunch.

Prayers for all the porch family. See ya a little later. Tell someone about Jesus today.
-REV.
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54941: What?! Why would Phelp's group picket the funeral of miners?? Big Jerry, do a Google search for Westboro Baptist Church and you can read about the activities of the group.

We had rain and cloudy skies today so I think we are the cool spot in the nation! Ha, imagine that.

Been out looking for a place to move and I think I found something. Supposed to meet with the realtor at 3pm....

I wanted to ask you good folks to please pray about a couple of needs. My sister's husband saw his doctor yesterday about some problems with his throat/nose and the doc told him that he had never seen anything like what was going on inside of his nose. Apparently their are literally chunks of his nose missing. I am concerned about him. He is seeing a specialist today at 3pm. His name is Pat. Also, a friend's uncle named Brad, is in his early 40's and has several young children. He just found out he has a agressive type of cancer that has probably already spread from his neck to his brain. I don't think he is a Christian or a church-goer and is very scared for himself and his family and requesting visitors. My pastor and my husband are going to visit him in the hospital today and tomorrow, so please pray that they can help meet this man's spiritual needs and that God will give him peace. It bothers me to to think that he is afraid and doesn't have the peace of God at a time like this. Thanks friends.

Boo
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54942:

Boo, prayers are going up for Pat and Brad. I imagine Brad is plenty scared, bless his heart. I pray that, whatever the outcome, this crisis brings him to the Lord. Please keep us updated.

You're right about this weather, Boo! It's crazy that we're relatively comfortable in S. Texas in August, while most of the remainder of the country is sweltering. A few years ago it was 112 here and our a/c had gone out! The thermometer in the kitchen read 100 degrees. And then I had to cook dinner. haha! That'll toughen a body up. (We actually didn't get that a/c replaced for several years. Now we're downright chilly. :-)

Love to all!

~DeS~
.
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54943: UGH! How did you do without a/c for several years??! You must be a tough cookie. Thinking of the thermometer in your kitchen reading 100 made me think of the episode of Twilight Zone in which the woman is dreaming of the earth getting hotter and hotter until everyone dies. Remember that one? Creepy.

Boo
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54944: Well, just heard from Pat and he has a staff infection...we can handle that. Thanks for all prayers.

I'm off to the drug rehab...

Boo
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54945: Good afternoon, all. Speaking as a lifelong Baptist, on the matter of Phelps and his gang of pseudo-religious thugs from the Westboro Baptist Church - I'd just like to say that hanging a name on one's self doesn't make it so. They may be from Westboro, but they're neither Baptists nor are they qualified to call themselves a church. By doing so, they're coming dangerously close to blasphemy. They have exhibited nothing but rancor and mean-spiritedness, and have shown nothing of love and compassion. They're a bunch of bullies who have found strength in numbers, and God will get them for the things they've done. Call me judgmental if you wish, but I calls 'em as I sees 'em. The Bible says we will be known by our fruit, and I can't see that they've produced anything but grief and pain and hurt. Shame on them!

The Plum is not doing well. She's weak, not eating much, but her little tail plume still waves whenever she sees me, especially if she knows I'm looking at her. I'm in a very hard place right now, and I need your prayers. --Romeena
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54946: Oh, my stars. Please take what I said in 54945 and double, or triple, or quadruple it. Until this minute, my knowledge of the activities of that group of hate-mongers was based on what I read in the papers, and the account given by an acquaintance who had the misfortune to have a run-in with them a year or so ago. Just now, I did as Boo suggested, and ran a Google search on them, and I feel like I need to go take a shower. Their home page website is unbelievable. There is a sidebar under the heading "Love Crusades", and it's a list of the war casualty funerals they have scheduled to picket! Boo, one of those funerals was today, at the Roy Akers Chapel in San Antonio. I hope someone found a way to stop them from bringing more grief on that suffering family.

After reading as much as I could tolerate at their website, I'm now convinced that they must receive a paycheck every month from Satan himself. If they don't, they should, because they certainly do enough to further his cause to deserve a place on his payroll. They're disgusting. Their activities are enough to turn any seeker aside from the truth. Who would want to be a Christian if that's how they act? Well, to any who might be wondering, their behavior does NOT reflect Christ and his teachings, there is nothing "Christian" about them, and when Judgment Day comes, I don't want to be anywhere near them.

I think there's a lesson here for us all. We should be very careful about the choices we make when it comes to leadership in our churches. I would imagine that at one time, that church was much different from what we see today. Somewhere along the line, some person or persons achieved positions of leadership, and one step at a time, the people were led into what it is today. Probably a lot of good people saw it coming and left, and only those who get a thrill out of hurting others remain now. No doubt some are really completely deluded and believe they're doing God's work. I feel sorry for them, but sorrier still for those who led them into it, because God will repay, and it won't be pretty.

May God have mercy on their souls. --Romeena
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54947: I am totally astonished at this group from Westboro. However, it does confirm that JESUS IS COMING SOON.
BIG JERRY
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54948:


Yes, let's remember Pat and Brad that Boo mentioned and also the lady from my church who is battling cancer and staph infection. She is not doing well.
BIG JERRY
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54949:

Wow, Ro, Roy Akers is here in my city. Crazy to think those people are here in my very vicinity. I know nothing about them, but they sound scary.

Ro, I'm praying hard for you and the Plum. May God comfort you in this difficult time. I know you love her so much.

Glad to hear Pat's staph infection can be treated, Boo. Them staph infections is tricky.

Tonight at the Casa de DeS, we're having meatloaf, homemade mashed taters and green beans. Who's comin'? I'll set out extry plates. :-)

~DeS~
.
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54950:

Prayers for your friend from church, BIG JERRY.

~DeS~
.
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54951:

Dang it, me again.

Boo, about the a/c -- the central unit went out in '01 and we were waiting all that time to come up with the $4K+ needed to replace the whole thing (outside compressor, inside condenser unit, etc.). Meanwhile, we could have bought winder units, but our logic was, well.. there wasn't much logic involved actually. We just did made do with our whole-house fan and floor fans. It was pretty hot at times, but we always had fresh air circulating. (For the record, I'll take stale cold air any old day. lol)

~DeS~
.
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54952: Hey friends, I'm home fromm the hospital already and feeling much better. Thanks for the prayers, they obviously worked. I love you guys...you're the cat's.
Millie
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54953: Glad to hear the good news, Millie.
BIG JERRY
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54954: Thanks, Big Jerry, and I'm praying for yoyr church friends. I certainly understand all they're going thru....God give's me the strength...Glory to God!
Millie
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54955: Sorry about my spelling errors...I guess I'm still doped up on pain meds.....and too lazy to check myself well...haha.
Millie
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54956: Evening porch folks, just a check point chickie to see how you all are. Good to hear from you Millie, glad you are back home. Prayers for Plum and Romeena. wish there was more we could do for you. We will all keep praying. My cousin who had the liver transplant last week is showing some signs of improvement. She has had a very hard week, had to have emergency surgery to repair some arteries that were bleeding into her abdomen. She is now off the respirator and talking (barely) a little. Her kidneys are beginning to work a little as well. Keep praying that she will progress from this point. She still has a long way to go. Prayers for all and a midnight snack: chocolate brownies and milk. Hey to ASa, BJ, DES, Boo, Romeena. My kids completed their first full day of school. Homework already. My son has Advanced Trig and Calculus. I will be of no help to him at all, AP Biology and AP English. Way above my little head I am afraid.
Sleep tight folks. Big Maude
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54957:
Asa-I think I'm with you, so does that make it a 4 way tie? haha

Rev-Over 100 degrees for the rest of the week? My goodness. It was 44 degrees here this morning and I think it's about 60 degrees now, of course it's 10:00 pm.

auh2o
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54958:
Rev-Hey, that adds up to 104 degrees.

auh2o
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54959: Asa, my son says he used a 7 iron on a 138-yard hole for the hole-in-one. He said he really didn't hit the ball that well either, but it worked out just the same. Glad you're back and feeling better, Millie. Big Maude, you ought to be able to handle that Trig and Calc, you're a "clever woman."
Charlotte Tucker
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54960:
Good to see Millie, Charlotte, Maude, DES Possum and others.
BOO- have you thought of trying Arecept for your dad. I have heard that if used early, it can really retard the memory loss in many cases.
Prayers for all in need.
God bless you all.
Western Auto, who wooda thought the memories it would spark.
Looks like many folks will be sleeping in wet sheets tonight!
MDC (:
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54961:
Howdy porch family.

Boo...I was praying for Pat and Brad as soon as I read your post and then scaned down and saw the good news on Pat. Still praying for them both.

Ro...you are so right about this satan infested group. They may call themselves a "Baptist church" but that surely doesn't make them one. I can sit in a garage but that doesn't make me a car.
Still praying for you and the Plum.

Oh praise the Lord that our Millie is back home. So good to see you feeling better.

Maude...prayers for your cousin that she continues to recover and gain strength.

auh2o...the Braves pulled it out over the Giants in the 9th. A close one.

Spot must be having a good time in Florida. Hope he took his suntan lotion or he'll be a red spot.

Big Jerry...sure will be praying for the lady in your church also.

You all have a great nights rest. I'm so glad that our Lord never sleeps. Even when we are sound asleep, He's watching over us. Oh He is so good to us!
-REV.
August 14, 2007 - Msg 54962: Wow, great to hear that you are feeling better, Millie. That just is a load off my heart and mind.

Thanks for your prayers for Pat and Brad, everyone.

Glad your cousin is improving, Maude.

Continued prayers for Ro and Sugarplum, bless their sweet hearts....Lord be with them in a mighty way.

MDC, Dad was on Aricept for awhile, then they gave him some kind of memory test and told him he didn't need it. Of course that was over a year ago so I will get him back to the doc to try again. I know he needs some help. It's not even so much his memory as his poor judgement at this point. He has been talking about wanting to go into an assisted living facility and I encourage it for him and mom. I think they would be happy there and feel more secure than they do being in the house alone.

Speaking of Western Auto....guess what?? The place we found today to rent is 2 blocks from the old Western Auto in town. I guess we will be signing the lease tomorrow. I think it's a great little place. It is in the older part of town that I used to live in as a young child and it is a short walk to uptown, where there is a neat pizza parlor and a tortilla facory, doughnut shop and snowcone place (there goes the diet). It will be great to buzz around the old neighborhood with the kids. It is a duplex apartment that was built 2 years ago so the appliances and all are fairly new and the place is in great shape. Nice ceramic tile throughout, big kitchen and dining are and 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Sean is beside himself with joy over the thought of having his own room again. We should be moving in 2 weeks....lots to do!

Better get to bed. Love to all,

Boo


August 14, 2007 - Msg 54963: Good evening, all. I was fortunate enough to get tonight off from work. Another nurse wanted to work, and I didn't, so the manager said if I wanted to use PTO time I could, without it counting as an unscheduled absence, since they didn't have to find a replacement. She offered, and I took it. I have nearly 200 hours in PTO, so I can afford it. I just really didn't want to leave the Plum tonight. Also, am seriously reconsidering the trip to Destin. I may not go. I had already let my friend off the hook, the one who was going to stay with the Plum. I knew she was worried about it, and sure enough, she was relieved when I told her I had decided to leave her with Dr. Mike instead. I just don't know. She perks up, then sinks again, then perks up. I don't know what to do.

Millie, so glad to hear you're feeling stronger. You are so precious to us all.

De§, that is scary, having that vicious hate group right there in SA. Incidentally, my dad knew Roy Akers and his sister Sally when they were all kids, and while they weren't close friends as adults, they maintained a cordial relationship. The Akers family were some of San Antonio's finest folks, strong Christians and kind to the bone.

Well, I guess I'll try to get my little furkid pottied, and get her to bed. She says hey! --Romeena
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54964: Hey again. It's almost 2am but I can't sleep because they gave me a bunch of sterids at the hospital. So, at least I had time toread up on all I've missed.
Ro, I'm so so sorry Sugarplum is not well. hold her and love her.
Boo, the new home sounds great. I'm so excited for you.
I had a nice chat with Big Maude over at Sarah's tonight.....Thanks again, Big Maude, I enjoyed it. Looking out for you, Hazel, where are you?
Anyone up for another snack? Tollhouse cookies, warm and soft(the steroids make me hungry too.) Y"all eat some.
Speaking of eating, it's good to be eating again...when they checked me into the hospital I had lost 18 pounds in a week! I'm so glad I'm feeling better.
Prayers for all....see y'all tommorow.
Millie


August 15, 2007 - Msg 54965: Boy, I'm glad, too, Millie. This is a good day! Enjoy those cookies.....I am looking forward to moving. Yesterday while I was out,I realized that the place we will be moving to is not far from a very popular bar and that bothered me...until I got back to Dad's and when I got out of the car, I could hear one of Dad's next-door neighbors singing at the top of his lungs (he was drunk) and then I saw a very questionable-looking young man in bare feet walking on the street in front of the house. Right now it is still dark out and I can see someone next door wondering around outside with a flashlight. This is the same guy's house that has the illegals working construction for sometimes he has them stay at his house. They sit outside late and get absolutely drunk and sit around the fire! I am SO ready to get out of here. My sister helped me to break the news to mom and dad. Mom doesn't want us to move but dad didn't seem unhappy about it....not surprised. He and Bruce have not been getting along well these days. Dad hasn't set any trash cans on fire this week but has been doing some other things that are hard to tolerate.

It's too early to be up but I couldn't sleep...I think I'll try to catch a few more winks before the kids get up.

Boo
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54966: Morning friends... and enemies too! :)

Millie, so wonderful to see you back. I'm glad you are feeling better and can eat a little.

Romeena, I can tell you are torn as to what to do with Sugarplum. I don't know what to tell you other than I am sure you will directed what to do and when to do it. I know you love her greatly but I also know you won't let her suffer needlessly. Fromwhat you have described she doesn't seem to be in pain but it's more a quality of life issue. Anyway, I pray for you to be directed to as what you should do. I know you will.

I can't imagine why this so called church would choose this tragedy to spew their hatred and venom. I guess it will give them more press. It amazes me how anyone can study the bible and come away with this kind of thinking though. Can someone explain that to me? I'm serious. I don't get it at all.

Sorry your having to move Boo. I do hope they will move into assisted living. It sounds like it would be for the best. I know in my Dads last years he was getting hard to reason with at times. He refused to go into assited living though and would not move in with us. He desired very much to stay in his home... the house he built himself. He died in that home and I am thankful we were able to help him stay there till the end. I know it made his time much easier for him.

Auh2o, I kinda figured you was there with me. I could feel your presence! hee hee hee.

Well off to a full day of meetings. Concerning our work meetings they go like this. When all is said and done, usually more is said than done. And that ain't a bad thing. :)

Asa
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54967: My thoughts are with you too, Romeena. We know you'll do what's best for the Plum, and like Asa said, you'll be directed, I'm sure.
Nice to have you back, Millie. I'll try to catch you tonight over at Sarahs.
- Hazel

"Keep a Good Thought"
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54968: Thinking you and Sugarplum, Ro...

Asa, thanks for the encouragement. I think my dad wants to go into assisted living, but my mom will be the one who won't, I think. We'll see how they feel when we are out for awhile. I also need to check into the financial end of it and the legalities. Dad gets social security and retirement but I'm not sure how much that is each month. He has some money markets and such that he could use, too but I'm sure they would need to sell the house to afford to live in assisted living long term. Maybe that's the direction we are heading and it's good that Bruce and I are moving out. I want my parents to be happy in their last years and they have become too dependant on me and my sister. Dad is still able to do alot for himself and I know he would enjoy being somewhere with folks his own age. Most all of his friends have passed on already and he has nothing outside of this house. No wonder he gets depressed. Mom feels secure right here in the house and doesn't even like to venture from the bedroom where her recliner and TV are, but I know that if she moved to a place where she could meet other women and eat in the dining room, it would be wonderful for her. It was a very hard thing last night to tell her that we were moving out and I know she will grieve for awhile. Mom has always been like that. She doesn't like anyone to leave. It was heck moving out on my own when I was 21. Talk about a guilt trip! ha She doesn't seem to understand that is a natural process for the kids to leave the nest.

Well, I guess I went on long enough about that, didn't I?

Bruce is home today to take care of some things. He has been meeting with some local builders to get some bids on the house and we are beginning to realize that this house we are trying to build my just be too big. I don't have a problem with down-sizing but Bruce is having a more difficult time with it. I know it will take longer to build it exactly the way we want it and the cost is, wow, more that I like to think about. I don't want to have to go back to work to have a bigger house. I love being a stay-at-home mom, and with the parents needing more help I don't want to be tied up in a job. Also with Sean's special needs, and trips to doctors out of town, it would be hard. Sean is doing well, by the way, thanks for all your prayers for him over the years. He has very few Tourette symptoms now and they are very mild. The anxiety seems to be better, but with age it takes kind of a different turn, from irrational fear to more of an obsessive-compulsive direction. Bless his, heart. He is doing well spiritually and loves to attend youth group and church. He is growing into a very responsible young man. He regularly mows two yards here on the street and is paid for those and he mows dad's yard. He helps around the house, too. Erin, on the other hand.....you have to practically threaten her with execution to get her to pick up her room.

Better go....I am a real windbag this morning.

Boo
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54969: Oh, almost forgot. I wanted to ask you parents about something and get your advice. My Erin is now 6 and a very delicate little blonde girl. She is kind of a tomboy and likes alot of what one would consider boy activities. She plays with girls but would rather play with boys. She likes to dress in long pants and shirts but avoids dresses. I have also noticed that when she is playing make-believe, she is always the dad or a boy. Then, the other day while I was helping her get dressed, she said to me, out of the blue, "Mom, I feel like a boy. I always feel like a boy. I want to feel like a girl but I feel like a boy.". She was very serious and it almost felt like she was asking me for help. I know in the past when I would hear her say she wanted to be "the daddy" or something I would correct her and tell her that God made her a girl. Maybe she is starting to feel like she is causing me displeasure by "feeling" like a boy but she can't help it. What should I do? Have any of you had a similar situation with any of your kids? I have read that gender problems can be seen from an early age. Don't want to over-react, but the way she told about how she feels was very sad and I want to help her. I guess it's just a mother's instinct but I feel like something is going on beyond the ordinary...thanks for listening.

Boo
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54970: Boo, I have 2 boys who are both grown and,first of all from what you have said, I feel you are doing a great job as a mother. Erin is just 6 and I would not be too concerned about her habits or play at this time.
I feel,especially in these trying times as a parent, your concern, but for now I would just keep those communication lines "OPEN" and not "CLOSED". I feel that is where as parents, even though my boys are grown, we fail our GODLY duty to our children. I am saying that because we have all made mistakes with rearing our children but for now,I feel you are on the right track.
BIG JERRY
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54971: Well thank you, Big Jerry. I appreciate the moral support and value your opinion highly, as you are the father of 2 grown sons. I do try to keep the lines of communication open between the children and myself and we are a very close-knit family. I hope they continue to be open with me as they grow. I make every attempt to not be shocked or upset with the things they tell me. I may worry about them in secret but never concern the kids with my concerns. Last year, before you were on the porch, Jerry, my little girl went through an experience in which one of her little friends did some things to her to hurt her and she came to me that same day and explained what had happened and how someone had "touched her down there". I was hurt by hearing it but stayed completely calm and made sure to tell her how proud I was of her that she told me about what was bothering her. It was disturbing but a very teachable moment. I took things a step further and talked with a great psycholgist about it so I would know how to talk to Erin about it and watch things to watch for that might come up in the future. I would have to agree with you that one of the most dangerous mistakes we might make as parents is to not communicate with our kids daily. And when I mean communicate, I mean more that "Hi and Bye, how was school". I really try to use opportunities every day to convey spirtitual and moral truths to my children. I think it's my most important and sacred calling to raise them to know the Lord.

I forgot to mention something to all of you. You were praying for the girl at the drug rehab last week who tried to kill herself (he name is Antoinette). Well, she was in bible study last night and that poor child looked absolutely terrible. You could see that she was in a very dark pit of depression. Right as we were getting started, she got up to leave and I followed her out. I asked her if she wanted us to pray for her right then or if there was anything we could do. She looked at me and I could see the tears welling up in her beautiful eyes. Oh, the look of sadness and pleading I saw there. She said, "No, I am feeling very depressed and I can't stay". That was all she could say. I told her I would be praying....I knew you all would want to as well. She is such a precious little darling girl. She used to have a very sweet and happy countenance, kind of a gentle spirit when she attended in the past. I guess maybe that is why she is suffering so now. Maybe her gentle soul can't take the pain anymore. I can only imagine what she might have gone through in her lifetime. Please remember Antoinette in your prayers and pray that she will come back next week to bible study.

Thanks,
Boo
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54972: Boo, sorry to hear about that terrible experience Erin went through last year.
Hope she does not have too many bad memories of that experience. I will be praying for the girl in rehab and to "YOU AND YOURS".
Good day to Romeena and Sugarplum. Hope all is well there with both of them today.
BIG JERRY
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54973: Have ya'll seen any crazy owls flyin' around??

Briscoe Darling
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54974: Boo, I'm remembering Antoinette in my prayers.
Briscoe, I saw one fly straight up-and upside downways....you reckon that means somethin'?
Millie
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54975: Good evening, all. Millie, I'm so glad you're feeling better. Use that "steroid high" to eat everything in sight right now, and gain some weight and some strength.

Boo, I hear the concerns you're expressing about Erin, and understand why you're troubled. However, I wouldn't take it too seriously right now. Just keep the lines open with her, and keep your eyes and ears on. When I was six, I was really disgusted that I was a girl. Most of my cousins were boys, and I wanted to be just like them. I climbed trees and rode horses, and did just about everything they did. I never wanted to be the "daddy" when playing house, because I never played house! I played cops and robbers, or cowboys and Indians instead. My alter-ego was Gene Autry, and I often insisted on being addressed as such. I detested the Shirley Temple look-alike who lived next door. I hated dresses, wore jeans and t-shirts (and still do) and did my best to "be" a boy. Somewhere along the way I outgrew ol' Gene, thank goodness, but never did become a frilly, frou-frou girlie type. In the natural course of things, I discovered a totally different kind of interest in boys, and the rest is history. I was a very happy wife and mother, I kept house, I'm a good cook, I can sew and crochet, and am very happy to be a woman. I can also groom and saddle a horse, and clean the muck out of his hooves. I can drive a nail in straight. I still don't care much for dresses, wear slacks most of the time, and jeans or shorts and t-shirts and no shoes at home. My Dale had no problem with any of that, and said he fell in love the day I came racing into our driveway on my horse, late for a date and he was there waiting. Erin will be fine. Just give her room, and time. Give her good books - Louise May Alcott or Laura Ingalls Wilder. The Caddie Woodlawn books if you can find them. They all have tomboy-type girls in them, presented in a positive light, with gentle feminine influence at the same time. Don't worry, she'll be okay. --Romeena
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54976:
Just a quick hello tonight. My daily prasyers continue for you all!
Loved the Gomer to the USMC ep last night!
May you have a tomorrow free of metal buckets!!! haha
Goooool-lee Sargeant!
MDC
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54977: Well im back gang! Thanks for the prayers for a safe trip which we had!...Panama City beach is such a neat place..Rev mu truck sucked the gas but the one ton crew cab was a gem!..ate on a 135 ft dinner boat that went out to sea last night!..it was all ya can and eat, country music and a dj....prime rib,all the sea food [crablegs Ro!}....:).....gaught over 40 fish ..[ro 3 sharks} one was about maby 2 fT't....I was theone on the peir with the glove and plres so I took many sharks off line s..BUNGH of young kids from Churches......well let me get un packed..SPOT
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54978: It's me again. I've put off making this entry, but I must. Tomorrow is the day, unless something or Someone intervenes. The Plum is doing very poorly. She had a bad night, panted like a racehorse all night. That can only be because she's in pain. This morning, she sat in her little piddle box and wet herself, soaking her legs and tail and her whole backside. Had to bathe her whole back half. She hasn't walked a step. Her appetite is failing. This is no kind of life for my merry little companion, who has always skipped around the house like a small white sprite, and is now just rooted to one spot, wherever I happen to put her down. So, tomorrow my son is coming to take us to the vet to get this over and done. My landscaper friend sent his helper over today to dig a place for her beneath my big window - I didn't want my son to have to do that. My handyman friend has made a little box for her, and will drop it by here in the morning. My son will be here in the early afternoon, and then I'll bring my baby home and put her to rest, with no more pain. That is, if I can stand to do it. Please pray, friends. I'm in a very bad place right now. --Ropmeena
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54979: Well, I guess I'll forever be Ropmeena. --Romeena
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54980: Laughing out loud at you Ropmeena!
Millie
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54981: Oh, My Romeena, I'm not laughing anymore...just read up....sooooo sorry for your pain. I'm praying for yours and Sugarplum's peace.
Love and hugs,
Millie
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54982: I am so sad. It just hurts so much to know what Romeena is going through. Lord be with her and comfort her at this very painful time...I love you Sugarplum and Romeena.

Boo
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54983:
Amen Boo...I stand in agreement with your prayer for Ro.
Ro...Even though this is a very very hard time but know that you are doing what a real loving pet owner would do. Prayers for you.
-REV.
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54984: Praying for you Ro...that His peace and comfort will walk with you, every step. Bless you in this time of sorrow.

Goober...
YO!!!
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54985:
Welcome back Spot....So glad your trip went well. Sounds like you had a great time.

Boo...for what it's worth....when my daughter was that age and up to around 11 years old, we could not get her to dress like a little girl for anything. She wanted jeans, baggy shirt and a old baseball cap. She would not fix her hair up real pretty, just throw on the cap. She would get out and play just like one of the guys. Then all of a sudden that changed in the early teen years. People look at her now and don't believe it when we tell them that story. (Her pic is on Ro's porch site) Like Ro said, I don't think you have anything to worry about. I just wish more kids today were raised with the values that you have instilled in your two kids.

Millie...so glad you're having another good day...EAT up! Still praying.

Gonna get to bed. Prayers for all the porch family. Jesus loves you!
-REV.
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54986: The tears on my pillow bespeak the pain that is in my heart - hugs and prayers for strength, peace and comfort going out to you Ro.

Prayers for all the other needs mentioned among us as well.
AFD
August 15, 2007 - Msg 54987: Thank you REV, for those very kind words and for sharing your experience. Thank you to Ro, also. I thought you post about your childhood and about your husband falling in love with you was very touching. It really put a smile on my face when I read it. Thank you so much.

Prayers will continue for you and Sugarplum.

Boo
August 16, 2007 - Msg 54988:

Oh Ro.. your post brought tears to my eyes. Letting go is the most difficult thing life calls upon us to do.

Continued prayers for strength and peace of mind at this sad time. Your dear friend will be with you always.

~DeS~
.
August 16, 2007 - Msg 54989: Romeena, I am so very sorry that thins are not well for Sugarplum. I was at where you are now 3 years ago with our little Sammy. You were such a good friend for me then, I hope I can in some way be of help to you now. Sadly, we usually outlive our pets, many times. I know what you're doing is hard but is also an indication of the great love you have for her, to not let her suffer. You know she will be in a better place, and I firmly believe we will be reunited with all our loved ones when we pass thru the veil, yes, even our beloved pets. You have my prayers for strength and comfort Romeena and Sugerplum has them for peace as she is reunited with your husband. May God bless you both this day and may you feel of his love and tenderness during this difficult time.

Asa
August 16, 2007 - Msg 54990: Ro,I am so sorry to know that things have gotten to this point. I know your heart must be breaking. What can I say but that we love you and hurt for you. God Bless you and Plum.

*******************
possum under a rock
August 16, 2007 - Msg 54991: Romeena, I am so sorry that it has come to this. I had tears streaming down my face as I read your post, and I'm sure I'm not the only porchster that had the same reaction. We've come to know and love the little Plum, and again, I am so sorry. Peace be with you today.
- Hazel
August 16, 2007 - Msg 54992: Romeena, May the LORD continue to give you the peace and comfort you need during this time.
BIG JERRY
August 16, 2007 - Msg 54993: Romeena, May God give you strength to do what you need to do and give you strength to work through what you need to do. We all love and care for you and you know that we will be here for you. Hugs, prayers and peace to you and for Plum too. Big Maude
August 16, 2007 - Msg 54994: Romeena, Remember Phillipines 4:13. Big Maude
August 16, 2007 - Msg 54995: THE BURDEN

THE BURDEN THAT'S UPON ME
IS TOO HEAVY, LORD, TO BEAR.
I KNOW THAT YOU ARE WITH ME
AND YOU LOVE ME AND YOU CARE.
YOU FILL ME WITH YOUR STRENGTH
AND I KNOW YOU'RE ALWAYS THERE,
THERE TO LIFT MY HEAVY LOAD
AND GIVE ME JOY TO SPARE.
IS IT ANY WONDER
THAT I LOVE YOU SO?
I KNOW THAT YOU ARE WITH ME
NO MATTER WHERE I GO.


MY PRAYER ARE WHAT YOU IN YOUR TIME OF SADIT.

LOVE YOUR FRIEND
TOM

August 16, 2007 - Msg 54996: Prayers from my heart Romeena...I have been there and know how it hurts..headed to work gang...hey Rev,TOM and all...thinking of you Ro...SPOT
August 16, 2007 - Msg 54997: ROMEENA .. you have my prayers ,Ive been through it with several fur friends ..God be with you MAYBERRY DEPUTY
August 16, 2007 - Msg 54998: Continued prayers for Romeena and Sugarplum. As I am posting this, a lovely little sparrow hopped onto a stool near the window and looked my way. It reminded me that Jesus said that Father sees every sparrow that falls. He cares so much about all of His creatures. I know he will be with Sugarplum and will gaurd her safely until Romeena gets home, too.

Boo
August 16, 2007 - Msg 54999: Im believe my radiator will need the full 5 hat fulls of water today. Man, is it hot!
BIG JERRY