December 17, 2007 - Msg 58968: Aw, you're welcome DES. My prayers for you today that things start looking up very soon and that you feel the true spirit of Christmas this year. You know, I think I have eaten at that IHOP you mentioned when returning from a church retreat once. If it's the one I think it is, it is very nice. I'm one of those folks who doesn't like to eat typical breakfast food in the morning (too rich). I'm the kind who wants a simple peice of toast and coffee, but now and then I like breakfast for supper so I thought I would try the IHOP. We have a local cafe/diner that has been in business for about 50 years and I prefer to go to a place like that for breakfast; it's cheap and the atmosphere is great...all sorts of folks and the old booths and diner counter with stools...you know the kind of place....I STILL haven't eaten at the Tip Top cafe...I have to do that one of these days.

Ro, that poor dog. I know how you feel, it's a really tough thing and makes you feel so helpless when one like that gets away. We had a really skinny bird dog going through our trash yesterday afternoon but he ran off before we could get a good look at the poor fellow.

It was a busy weekend! The bell ringing for the Salvation Army was alot of fun, but cold and windy. We had a front blow in that day and it was really cold for a Texan. We sang lots of carols anyway! One woman put some money in the bucket, turned to me and said, "That was NOT for the singing!"...hahaha.

Yesterday I had my own kids and 3 other boys hanging around after church and we went to the homestead and built a nice fire, roasted marshmellows and told stories. The weather was perfect, clear and cold and you could see the stars out. Wish you could have all been there so we could share some stories.

Have to finish the Christmas shopping today so better get going...

Boo
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58969: Good morning everyone. It's been cold and very, very windy here, but the sun is shining this morning. It's too nice a day to go and start a moulage, that's for sure.

BOO: You mean you had a bonfire at the future homestead? Remember, as soon as you have a porch to sit on you need to be throwing a big porch party for all of us.

POSSUM: That is a shame about Dan. I do enjoy his music. Have you heard his Christmas CD that he put out a few years ago? It's pretty good. And "Auld Lang Syne" is a real touching song. You can really picture the story as he's telling it. "Leader of the Band," his tribute to his father, is another favorite of mine. RIP.

AUH2O: Maybe the candidates will start campaigning in your neck of the woods soon and melt all that snow with their hot air. Of course, it may leave a foul stench. (That much BS usually does.) I better be careful or I may start to sound cynical.

Prayers for DES, LUCY, HM's hubby, and all those who need them today.

Me-They
"I'm Mr. Heat Miser, I'm Mr. Sun.
I'm Mr. Green Christmas, I'm Mr. 101.
They call me Heat Miser, whatever I touch,
Melts in my clutch.
I'm too much!"
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58970: BOO: AS far as the signing goes, have you tried lessons from Mrs. Poultice? She did wonders for Leonard Blush.

M-T
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58971: She gave SINGING lessons, too ;).

M-T
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58972: haha....maybe I'll give her a call.

Boo
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58973:
Morning Porch

Rev-We didn't get hit bad with snow this weekend, 8 inches over the last few days. They were saying we might get about two feet but I think it went up to Poor Horatio's neighbor in Toronto.

Me-They Did you see Hillary walking around Iowa going door-to-door. That one lady nearly shut the door in her face. Could you imagine having your morning cup of coffee and having to deal with Hill, YIKES! It would be wonder to tell a Clinton to get off my land. That's what I want for Christmas.

Buddy The Elf: "I'm singing. I'm in a store and I'm singing..."

auh2o
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58974:
Funny how the memories come back this time of year!
I saw a DUNCAN YOYO in a store this past Saturday, and i got to thinking how the Duncan yoyo king man would come by school every year, showing off all his trick "yoyoing". We'd all buy one, but alas, mine would barely come back up, much less do anything else!! haha
Prayers for everyone dealing with all the snow and sleet!!
MeThey- Leonard Blush even made it to the "big time!"
BOO- Good sweep!

MDC
"Now keep your shirt on Gilly. The way you treat this car, you're lucky it runs at all."

December 17, 2007 - Msg 58975: Speaking of Goober, MDC, I read in the paper that today's George Lindsay's birthday; he's 72. Sa-LUTE!

AUH2O: I've hired George Clinton (Mr. Funkadelic)serenade you at your property, and Clint(on) Howard (little Leon) to make you a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Merry Christmas!

Me-They
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58976: Boy gang I HAVE GOT to read...will tonight I promise...busy at work today...prayers....will someone cook?..I will be back on the job soon....thanks ..hey brother Rev,Tom,ro,boo,mavis,auh20,possum,hazel,mdc,md,goober,maude and all....this mon thru friday day shift ..well I aint used to this!...will be glad to get back the evenings next month!..busy busy...but the day flys...SPOT
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58977: What a coincidence, MDC. My brother-in-law works for Duncan Yo-Yo as a demonstrator, going to schools and such. He even quit his job and does this full-time now.
But I'm like you, MDC, I could never get the things to work right.
If you are curious and want to see him in action(and some other people later on in the video, but he is the first one on), here is a video he made for someone. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNp7CaVfLiY
You have to wait past a quite artistic intro, but then he comes on. He may look kinda like a street thug, but he is really quite nice and down to earth, and VERY funny.

Hillary almost getting a door shut in her face, huh auh2o? I'd like to see that. ;)

-Sterling Holobyte
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58978: STERLING: I just watched the viedo. To quote Goober, "How'd he do that?"

M-T
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58979: (Snap of fingers)Hey Andy.
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58980: HAPPY BIRTHDAY GOOB
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58981: Well!! Sterling, I watched the video, and I stand amazed. If any of you ever see me with a yoyo, trying those things, please stand by with a knife or some scissors, because I'll surely need someone to come and cut me free at some point. "How'd he do that?" indeed! Very impressive.

As for Hillary, I don't know that I'd shut the door in her face, as that would be rude and not very Christian, but is it okay if I hope that she doesn't come by and test me? And now about Oprah. I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm really getting tired of "celebrities" using their high profile to stump for political candidates. What on earth would qualify Oprah Winfrey to recommend any political candidate above another? What does she know about it that the rest of us don't? She's just like the rest of the movie stars, thinking that because they're well-known, that also makes them all-knowing. Horsefeathers! Actually, I'm disappointed in Oprah, because it's pretty obvious that she's supporting Obama because he's black, and that's not a good enough reason. Shame on her. Skin color is not a reason to vote for, or against, a candidate. You can bet if he was white, she wouldn't be out beating the bushes for him.

While color isn't a reason, deeply-held beliefs most definitely are, and he scares me. I know what he says, what he claims to believe, but he was born to a Muslim father, had a Muslim step-father, attended Muslim schools, and one would assume he still has Muslim family members living in the very countries that we may have to engage some day. He may be a very fine and intelligent man, but I have to wonder. In today's political climate, anything can happen and probably eventually will, and given his background, would he have the stomach to "push the button" against a Muslim nation, when it becomes necessary? I don't care what color he is, but I do care about where his heart and his deep-down loyalties are. Maybe I'm wrong, but that's how I feel about it.

Sorry, I said I'd stay away from political discussion, but this one is so very scary. It's not my intent to offend anyone, and if you have information and facts that could change my thinking, I'm certainly willing to listen.

Prayers for all of you, dear friends. Gotta run now, see you later. Blessings! --Romeena
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58982: ROMEENA: Mayberry's Knot-tying class isn't until Tuesday evening.

About Obama, I have to disagree. He may have been born Muslim, but it's very evident he is a practicing Christian. I don't believe he's a child "sleeper" or anything. Even if he were a Muslim, one need only look at Iraq to see that the brotherhood goes only so far. All that said, I wouldn't vote for him anyway. I'm still pushing for Ellie.

See y'all manana (anybody know where the tilda is?)

Me-They
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58983: Me-They, I heard Obama interviewed on Oprah and while he claims to be Christian, he doesn't hold to basic doctrine. I can't quote him but I know he really got my attention. He is one of those who think "all roads lead to God", which, is not Christian doctrine. I don't trust politcians because I think they will say what they think the voters want to hear, even if it isn't true. When a politician says he a Christian, I think 'Show me, don't tell me'.

Boo
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58984:
Barn: It's from Hilda Mae
Andy: Who?
Barn: Hilda MAE!

M-T- I'll skip the knot-tying class, too many shotguns involved! ha
Sterling- so apparently they still go to the schools! Cool. In my day, they were not at any official assemblies, they would just show up at recess on the playground. After a bit, the nuns would chase them away! ha
One year I remember that it was the cool thing to get one of the "backwards" type yoyos, where the curved part went to the inside. Then they came out with the plastic glitter resin metallic type.
But I still wasnt very good. HA! I did finally get the cats cradle down pat.
I got a Christmas card from old pappabear Colt. He says HEY to everyone!
HAPPY birthday to George Linsay!! JUDYJUDYJUDY!
I hope Millie is smiling down on us!
No matter where one stands, we are definitely another year closer to the coming of Jesus! Praise God!
Prayers,
MDC
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58985: MDC, thanks for the update on Legend City. Boy, I am old!
Also, speaking of Millie, I sure miss that dear friend. I was cleaning up some stuff the other day, and came across a couple of cards she sent me, at 2 different times. One was probably in about August, and inside she had written "I'm so glad we're friends!" In the other one, which was a couple months before that, she had written "God loves you, and so do I!" She was so sweet. Did I ever tell you guys that she also sent me two "Bogarts" Tshirts. A black one and a white one. I love em both! I can still remember the way her voice sounded on the phone. She was a real blessing in my life, that's for sure.
Last night my husband and I were going out to get our Christmas tree. We're a little late this year, and decided we'd go get it last night, and decorate it tonight. Well, there was a big box of stuff in the back of the truck that I was going to give to the Goodwill, so he was moving that back to the garage so we would have room for the tree. So, he was carrying this big, awkward box, and he tripped over a piece of wood that was laying in the yard. Ok, my husband's a big guy, and I'm telling you when he tripped, first he rolled over the top of the box he was carrying, and then summersalted into the side of the garage. I couldn't help but giggle, it seemed so surreal and commical from my vantage point in the passenger seat of the truck. Then I realized he was hurt. Long story short, he broke 2 ribs. And this is the man who had a heart attack 2 months ago. He's now sitting in his chair, sedated on drugs. Next year has got to be better for him, I don't see how it could get any worse!
I'm up for knot-tying class.
I hope Homemaker checks in soon to give us an update on her Mr. Homemaker.
See you in the funny pages,
- Hazel

Otis: "I seen temptation coming, but it seen me coming too."
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58986: Hazel, after reading that I had to post. Broken ribs are the most horrible thing that can happen, you can't even laugh and forbid cough or sneeze. Give him love.

Ro, calling yourself 'an old gal,' where does that put me...? Age is just a number....and to quote Rosa Rio, mine is unlisted. She is 105 and still performing.

AUH20, Fines are just to much for doing good for your wildlife friends. I pay to feed our deer and they appreciate it. I don't think I will tell them about this....but doubt they will be wanting to move to NY anytime soon. From reading your posts you seem more an New Englander rather than a Yankee. If ever, take a break and come over to the TX end of the porch.

ray
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58987: Oh Hazel, your poor husband! He was trying to do a good deed and ends up getting hurt. Bless his heart. Take good care of him (I know you will), and we pray her mends quickly. Thanks for sharing what you did about Millie. I have been thinking about her and her family lately, wondering how things are for them during the Christmas season. Surely they must miss her terribly. She was a light in this world.

Got all my shopping finished today! Yippee...now for the baking and cleaning. I am having a small Christmas party for the girls at the rehab tomorrow night and my pastor and his wife are coming. He got a new guitar as an early Christmas present (after his was stolen during a church break-in this year!), so he is going to come and play some songs for us. I think it will be a blessing. I have to bake a bunch of cookies and thought we could have hot spiced cider.

Well, been a long day and I have to go shew the neighbor boy home. I found out today that his dad wasn't working last night but was out with his buddies at the VFW until almost midnight while the boy was home alone on a school night. Didn't like that. The man is supposed to be getting married next month to a woman who is moving here from the Philippines...one of those internet romance things. Certainly hope everything is on the level and that she is a good person. The boy could use a nice woman to be at home with him after school.

Well, better hit the sheets...

Boo
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58988: I mean "he" mends quickly, of course...the poor man has enough trouble without me calling him a girl!

Boo
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58989:
Howdy porch family...just wanted to check in on everyone.

Hazel...about 15 years ago I was on a two story roof and fell on a concrete drive. Broke my elbow and my ribs. Let me tell you, those ribs were the most painful thing! As ray just said, Lord forbid you cough or sneeze. Just takes time to heal. Prayers for your hubby.

Ro and Boo.....I have to agree with you both concerning Obama. And I don't care what color he is, the dude scares me.

Spot...don't work too hard brother. We'll bring you a plate during these day shifts.

By the way...my wife gave me my Christmas early. She bought me a black felt Larry Mahan's Hat Collection cowboy hat. The Milano Hat Company out of Garland, Tx makes them. It is REALLY nice. And my daughter has ordered a molded hat case for me to travel with.
Now I'll let you all look at it but you can't put it on your head. You know I don't like anyone wearing my hat. My mother is the same way...hehe

Well better go for now. You all have a Jesus filled night and prayers for all the porch family. Jesus loves you so much! He really does!
-REV.
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58990: Howdy, all. Just got home, my friend and I went to Red Lobster (it was crab-crackin' Monday) and filled up on crab legs. Yum! Then I drove us around town so we could enjoy the Christmas lights. Seems there weren't as many as last year, though we did see a few very lovely displays. I just love the lights.

Me-They, you could be right about Obama, but so far "Christian" is not what crosses my mind when I see or hear him. Boo, you're absolutely right - show me, don't tell me. Clinton claimed to be a Christian too, but if he went on trial for it, I don't think the evidence would convict him - far from it.

Hazel, I'm so sorry about your poor hubby - those broken ribs are going to be really painful for a while. Bless his heart! So much for the Christmas tree, huh?

The weather finally dried up, I was able to plug all my back yard lights in and they're working without tripping the GFCI, at least for now. Sure does look pretty back there, if I do say so myself. You just can't go wrong with a bunch of colored twinkle lights and a few lighted deer.

Well, I'm going to snuggle in and cuddle little Starr (she's one sweet little puppy) and we'll sleep late in the morning, because I have to work tomorrow night and Wednesday night. Then I'm off until after Christmas. Not a bad schedule, I guess.

Blessings, all! --Romeena
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58991:
Hazel-Prayers for your husband, the poor guy. Like Ray & the Rev, I also broke a couple of ribs, back in my ice-hockey days. I think sneezing was the worst. Praying for you two and I hope the new year treats him better too.

ray-I'm not sure what a New Englander sounds like but I can tell you I am in the vast minority here in New York. Or, as I like to call it The Peoples Republic of New York. My family tree on both sides is deeply rooted in New England, since 1638.

The Grinch: "Grab a bag, Max! We'll come back for the rest later. Of course, when I say 'we,' I mean 'you.'"

auh2o
December 17, 2007 - Msg 58992:

Sorry to hear about your hubby, Hazel. Broken ribs are excruciating.

Boo, hot spiced cider sounds good. I just made some sort of apple baked thing. Apple Brown Betty is what I guess it is. It's apples, brown sugar, butter and cinnamon and the crust and topping is crushed cinnamon graham crackers and oats with a little melted butter and a pinch of salt. Whatever it is sure smells good.

I haven't studied Obama much so I don't know what to think of him. Based on what I've heard, I'm skeptical. Sure is true about people talking the talk, though. Walking the walk and acting like somebody is whole other story.

~De§~


December 18, 2007 - Msg 58993: Morning all. Been absent for a few days.

Hazel, I also broke a couple of ribs a few years ago playing basketball. A week later I was back at the Doctors with pneumonia. They neglected to tell me to not supress coughing. I hurt so bad that I forced myself not to cough when the urge hit. Well coughing is you body's way of expelling stuff from your lungs. So they put me on a heavy duty antibotic and told me to go home and force myself to cough every half hour or so. Told me to hug a pillow tight when I did to ease the pain. So something he should be aware of if he isn't already. I'm sure Ro or Boo can explain it better then me.

Hope everyone is doing good.

Asa
December 18, 2007 - Msg 58994: Now,Asa,you know ya didn't break 'em playing basketball. You went a little overboard doing your act at the Gigolo Club,that's what! Boo & I were there,don't you remember? We were the ones that drove you back to the Hospital in Mt. Pilot from Yancey.Tell the truth,man! Ha Ha

Hazel,I sure hope Mr. Hazel is on the mend soon!

Y'all have a good day!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
December 18, 2007 - Msg 58995: He gave himself away as a phony right off, didn't he Possum?!
Seriously, since hubby broke his ribs, I really am in fear that he'll catch my cold. Remember a few days ago I told you all about my rotten cold? Well, I kept thinking last night, what if he gets it. Wouldn't it be awful to be coughing and sneezing with broken ribs? And then I saw all your posts this morning about that very subject... If he does get it, I'm going to keep in mind what Asa said about not suppressing the cough. I don't want him getting pneumonia. Let's just hope he doesn't get it. They did check his lungs at the docs, because I guess sometimes a broken rib can puncture a lung, but his lungs were ok. But we're still suppose to watch it if he gets shortness of breath.
Have a great day, everyone.
- Hazel

Andy: "Otis! He spiked the spring water!"
December 18, 2007 - Msg 58996: Good advice Asa, you explained it well. I certainly hope Hazel's hubby doesn't catch her cold! What a Christmas that would be..

Romeena, are you planning on going to Fredricksburg over Christmas to see the new grandbaby? You still haven't seen him, have you?

I remember that night with Asa well, Possum...had something to do with a "table dance", didn't it? I told you that you shouldn't have requested it.

What movie is this quote from (hint: it was on ABC Family Channel last night): "I'm sweatin' like a dog in a Chinese Restaurant!"...

Boo
December 18, 2007 - Msg 58997: Good Morning everyone, hope all is well today.
Been busy the past few days and not much time to stop by for a visit. Not been sleeping well and that makes an ole girl tired.

Cold here today.. 18 degrees here in Northeast Tennessee.

Still getting things ready for Christmas. Pretty much done with shopping for presents. I have some more wrapping to do and then the grocery shopping. We will do Christmas eve with my Mom, brother, sister in law and niece at my house and then we wll travel to Knoxville (about 2 hours away) on Christmas morning to have Christmas with them. I am going to be off the day after Christmas just to rest!

Good to see ASA, Possum, Boo, Hazel,Ray,Auh20, and Romeena and everyone else.

Lunch will be: homemade chili beans, cornbread or crackers. lemonade or tea to drink. dessert will be homemade cookies: sugar, chocloate chip,
peanut butter. see you all at lunch

Prayers and blessings to all today.

Big Maude

December 18, 2007 - Msg 58998: A good day to everyone. Stopping by to say hello and to wish all our ailing friends and friends' spouses a speedy recovery! Especially Hazel's husband--hoping he gets plenty of rest and healing. I'm still taking care of throwing-up-kids. #2 woke up early this morning asking for the "sick bowl." My tummy feels questionable but so far, no reverse...uh, digestion! I think its just by sheer will power because I'd rather have 3 root canals, 2 infected hang nails, and a raging itchy rash than throw up! On that note, I better make #2 some warm tea and dry toast. Take care everyone! Thinking of you all. Love, MW
December 18, 2007 - Msg 58999: Good morning, all. No, Boo, I still haven't seen the baby, but am just not ready to attempt that 4 1/2 hr drive until I have seen my cardiologist and gotten his okay. I hate to complain, but I really haven't been feeling too great lately. Cardiac problems are getting worse, I'm thinking I need a pacer. I had one of those bradycardia episodes at work Sunday night, took it nearly 15 minutes to resolve. It's not my imagination, we put a pulse oximeter on me and it registered my heart rate in the low 40s, witnessed by another nurse. Amazingly, my blood pressure was okay at 115/59. A little low for me, but not bad. Still, it's a terrible feeling - very weak, short of breath, the old "impending doom" thing - remember that one from nursing school? Then it just suddenly starts speeding up, and over about 30 seconds, it returns to normal and I feel fine. Very, very weird. It's a conduction problem, and a pacer would probably fix it, so we'll be talking about that on Friday. OK, that's my whine for the day.

Right now, I think I'm going back to bed. I have to work tonight, and some extra sleep sounds like a good idea. That is, if I can get this Starr puppy to settle down and quit playing. Ha!

Blessings, all! --Romeena
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59000: Hahaha! MW, those are my sentiments exactly. Why do we fight it? One always feels better after ejecting the offending substance, but I will fight it until I turn green! I just HATE to throw up! I always felt especially blessed by the Lord, because I was never sick during my pregnancies. Felt wonderful, and could eat anything, and didn't gain weight, and was never sick, not for one moment. With my youngest, my neighbor was expecting at the same time, and I think she hated me. She gained 80 pounds while I gained five, she was sick every morning and I never was, and my labor lasted 55 minutes from wake-up to delivery, while hers was nearly 24 hours. It's a wonder she didn't drop a bomb on my doorstep! It's really a good thing I didn't have morning sickness, because I'd probably have had only one child.

Well, this time I really am going back to bed. Just not feeling tiptop today. Blessings, everyone! --Romeena
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59001: Romeena, you take care now ya hear.. maybe you could call the cardiologist and see if you could be seen sooner than Friday. This is nothing to mess around with as you well know. Big Maude
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59002: Romeena - you get yourself checked out soon - can't have my favorite aunt ailing!

Mr. Homemaker is doing as well as can be expected.

Sorry this is so out of pace for me - our Christmas present to the boys is a new Boston Terrier puppy. We pick her up on Thursday. Her name is Maddie.

homemaker
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59003: All this talk about throwing up is very... nauseating. ;) Still, I agree with Ro and MW. Never liked to do that myself. Then again, I don't think anyone really enjoys it. I remember when I was a kid, it was downright frightening.

Hmmmm..., kind of glad I got my flu shot this year. :)

Ro, hope you get your heart thing settled. And Hazel, hope your hubby heals quick. Broken ribs don't sound like any fun a'tall.

Do any of you think it is uncouth to not go to a Christmas party with the people you work with? Got one coming up on Thursday night, and I really am not the Christmas party type of guy. For that matter, I am not really ANY party type of guy. I simply don't do parties. Don't like 'em, don't need 'em, don't want 'em.
After not working for so long, I had forgotten about work Christmas parties. I think I have only been to one before, and I didn't enjoy that one either.
Well, got to get to work. I imagine my supervisor will probably ask me today if I am going. Hopefully the words will come to me that won't sound like I am too anti-social.

-Sterling Holobyte
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59004: Good morning everyone. It's clear but mighty chilly here today (30 degrees). No snow in sight, though.

I didn't mean my comments about Obama yesterday to be contrued as to mean I think the man has his theological hat on correctly. Frankly, I don't know enough about him to have opinion in that regard. And I whole-heartedly believe what BOO said about "show me" to be correct. I was simply trying to say that I think his Muslim roots are unimportant to the debate, and that his professed Christianity is no more of a measure than it is for any of the other candidates, Democrat or Republican.

I'm so sorry to hear about your husband, HAZEL. He's on my prayer list. And thanks for sharing your though on MILLIE. I miss her, too. I hope that her family is coping okay.

REV: Congrats on the hat. I remember that about your mother ;).

I hope that your kids feel better, MW.

ROMEENA: I heard on the radio this morning that design firms that decoarte for Christmas are becoming much in demand around the country. You can employ one to decorate inside and out for prices starting at $500 and going upwards of $25,000, depending on your level of "Holiday Spirit."

We may be getting a new pooch on Thursday, too, HM! She is a 1-year-old c*ocker spaniel. The rescue is bringing her over Thursday to meet us. If all goes well, it looks like we'll have a new addition to the family in time for Christmas.

See y'all at lunch. I think I'll have the blue plate special, the phosphate, and finish off with a little lemon cookie.

Me-They
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59005: Celebrating my little "Opie"'s 9th birthday today. Hubby is coming home at 1:30, we're doing apple pie and ice cream (birthday boy's request) and opening presents. THe big present is they're all going to the movie theater for a matinee. Big deal in this family. I'm staying home. Didn't want to spend the money on the ticket just to spend it in the lobby with our soon to be 2 year old.

Opiemom
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59006: STERLING: You snuck in on me there. Well, I assume the party is optional, right? I'm not much help--I like parties, except under unusual circumstances. Maybe you'll have more fun than you expect. Remember Opie didn't want to got o Arnold's party stag, but he did and ended up with Mary Alice Carter. And I imagine he thought that was some goodie bag.

Me-They
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59007: OPIEMOM: You snuck in, too! Just who's turn at guarding the Golden Door to Good Fellowship is it anyway? I hope your going to see a good Cary Grant movie--JUDYJUDYJUDY. Or, you could just stay home and watch a George Raft movie on tv.

M-T
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59008: ROMEENA! I am worried my friend! Worried, worried, worried. PLEASE get this checked out and taken care of a.s.a.p! How are you to work if you're so weak, love? I am worried about you. Check back often. We love you, you know! Very, very much. Truly.

On another note, I was like your neighbor when I was pregnant! I actually developed "hyperemisis" with my first pregnancy after being pregnant for a whopping 4 weeks. I ended up in the hospital right before Christmas that year and lost 27 pounds in a month. It was amazing that my daughter survived the ordeal! I was unable to eat or drink on my own until the first day of my 2nd trimester. Then like magic, the morning sickness was gone and I ate like a trucker for the remaining pregnancy. My appetite was insatiable. Fortunately, I craved lean meat and fruit. Oh, and jalapeņo peppers--ate 'em by the jar full. Only once did I have a weird or sweet craving and it was a Nestle Crunch Bar shoved between a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

Have a great afternoon everyone--special prayers today for RO. MW

PS Congrats HM on the new puppy Maddie!
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59009: Well gang I will squeeze lunch in....so busy here at work...everyone wanting to get service hooked up before Cahristmas..prayers to all..Opiemom my Kelsey she will be 9 tomorrow and I will be 48 Sat..yee haww...lunch bbq sandwiches chips and a pickel...[pulled pork]...coke.....back in a bit...SPOT
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59010: Well gang I will squeeze lunch in....so busy here at work...everyone wanting to get service hooked up before Cahristmas..prayers to all..Opiemom my Kelsey she will be 9 tomorrow and I will be 48 Sat..yee haww...lunch bbq sandwiches chips and a pickel...[pulled pork]...coke.....back in a bit...SPOT
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59011: Im double trouble..sorry!
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59012:
Anyone want to share a favorite Christmas toy that you got as a child? For me, it was a Rifleman cap rifle. Wow, and I grew up to be just a normal guy! Had so much fun with it.
My mom gave it away when i was at college. I eventually forgave her! ha
Can broken ribs be "set" or do you just have to deal with them? wow. Prayers for him.
Keep those quote comin' in, just dont make hubby laugh!
RO- do you think digoxin would help? That helps with my heart rythum.
Maude, thanks for the grub, much better than your cabin burgers! ha
Opiemom- sounds like fun, remember no IHOP!
Prayers for all.
MDC
Barn: Ring a ding ding, Will you look at what's getting off the bus!
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59013: Chatty Cathy
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59014: HO1 HO1 HO1 JUST PAPA BEAR CHECKING IN.... LET'S MAIL OUR CHRISTMAS LIST FOR 1963 WISH LIST. I'M MAKING A LIST AND WILL CHECK IT ONCE, HA. THR BROWN TRUCK IS GASSED UP LIKE OTIS. READY FOR IT'S ROUNDS ON CHRISTMAS EVE.... THE STATE OF THE MAYBERRY ECONOMY IS PITIFILL NOT A PRETTY PICTURE BUT BOTH MY DAUGHTERS WILL SING FOR YOU. MDC- GOT YOUR LATEST TODAY. IF IT WAS CHRISTMAS 1963 WHAT WOULD YOUR WISH LIST BE? MORE SPIKED EGG NOG PLEASE. PAPPA BEAR
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59015: merry christmas and a happy new year to one and all. from your mayor- pappa bear.. is it election time yet? mr weaver for mayor, otis for liquor control officer. pappa bear
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59016: Merry Christmas Pappa Bear!!! How wounderful to hear from you. Hope you can drop in more often!
Happy Birthday to all the December birtdays!
Big Maude
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59017: How about a GI Joe with the Kung-Fu grip?

Good to hear from you, PAPPABEAR. Merry Christmas to ye.

Me-They
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59018:
Hey there pappa bear! Was that your "State of the Mayberry" speech? ha So good to see you on the board! 1963-hmmm Remember those plastic models where you could see all the innards of a human being? I asked for one and got the see-thru V-8 engine instead! I guess the other was too risque! ha
We will take the brown truck in for service before the big run!
MT- do you still have your GI Joe? The big ones are worth something these days.
more later,
MDC
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59019: No, MDC, they are lost to time. However, (oddly) I still have some of their clothes and weaponry, though it's seen better days. So if you know of any ten inch people who need to explore the artic or moonlight as a SEAL, I have some gear.

Me-They
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59020: Good afternoon, all. Thanks for your words of concern, everyone. MDC, I took digoxin for a while, but the slow-downs were as bad or worse than they are now, so he changed me to atenolol. I've done fine on it for a couple of years, but lately, it seems to be doing the same thing the digoxin did. Big Maude, and Merri W, thanks for the sweet words. I did call my doctor this morning, he's out of town until Thursday night, so Friday morning it shall be. I did tell his assistant some of the situation, so he can schedule any tests he might feel are needed. Truly, I won't be surprised if they decide to put in a pacer, and I won't argue. I've seen them do wonders for people. By the way, I've told you folks more than I've told my own family, because there's no need in getting them all excited and worried right here at Christmas. They know a little but not the whole thing. There's nothing they can do, so why upset them? I guess I talked here on the porch because we all need some place to whine! (heehee)

As for working, I'm okay unless I have one of those "spells", and then I just have to sit down until it passes. It's only happened three times at work in the past couple of months, so it will likely be just fine tonight.

My favorite Christmas gifts were always books. Books and more books! I was never very big on dolls, being such a tomboy (all male cousins, I had no choice) and I remember getting a cap pistol one year that really made me happy. That way I could play cowboys and Indians with my cousins and be a lot more convincing! Oh, such fun we had!

Well, Starr is begging me to pick her up, I think she wants to cuddle and take her afternoon nap. She's just like a little baby, she needs that nap about mid-afternoon, and she prefers to do her napping on my shoulder or in my lap. Suits me just fine!

Blessings, all! --Romeena
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59021: Ro, I know that feeling pretty well. I used to have it more often when I was younger, though. My heart rate used to get into the 30's and 40's from time to time. The other day it happened for less than a minute but it feels awful. If mine starts acting up, I'm getting on some meds. I pray that the docs can help you without the pacer but I also know how much better you will feel with the pacer if you really need it (well, you know that, too). I have a good friend who is my age and has a pacemaker. He had a fatal arrythmia several years ago and was brought back by paramedics. Very strange but he is fine now. He did have a personality change, probably from the O2 deficit durning his clinical death episode, I assume. He used to be a nicer guy. I remember that happening to my dad after open-heart back in the 80's. He was not as nice after the surgery, no kidding.

Wow, great news about the new family pets! Hope all goes well.

Happy birthday to Opiemom's boy!!

M-T, there was a movie on the other night with George Rath called "Christmas Eve". Ever see that one?

Don't worry Merri, Ro is very good about taking care of herself. She stays on top of things. I am proud of her for that. She's better at it than I am!

MDC, those models were called "The Visible Man and The Visible Woman". When we were kids we used to giggle at their privates!

Ro, feel free to whine at as any time...I certainly do my share. I know you'll be just fine because you are God's own child and He is in control. I only wish you could retire and stop that crazy 12 hour shift business....I think I'll start praying in that direction...do you play the lottery??...just kidding.

Well, I am off to the Christmas party at the drug rehab, HO HO HO!! See ya later.

and a big Merry Christmas to Pappa Bear!! Felt great to hear from you.

Boo
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59022:
Boo-Privates? Were they in the Army?

auh2o
December 18, 2007 - Msg 59023:
Hello porch family.

Ro...you take care of that heart. We need that "heart" to stay healthy for all of us on the porch. Praying for you even as I post this.
Also, we talked about our lights on the Christmas deer not burning. Not sure if I told you what I did, but I took all the lights off and spray painted the deer white. Then I took a spot light and shined it on them and it really looks nice. Even kept them plugged up so that the heads would continue to turn back and forth. At least I can still use them and Mrs Rev likes it so I'm set.

Possum...you are too funny.

Maude...lunch sure was good.

MW...praying for you all. Get feeling better.

M-T...we'll be waiting on the new addition.

Happy Birthday to little Opie, Kelsey and in a couple days to Spot. Let's all sing happy birthday....on three... start.

Hey there Pappa Bear. Good to see ya buddy. You have a very Merry Christmas and try to stop by more often cause we miss ya.

Well gotta get to bed. You all take care and have a blessed night. Praying for all the porch family. God loves us....and I sure love Him!
-REV.

December 19, 2007 - Msg 59024: Morning...hey pappa bear and all...brother Rev are you home for Christmas?..hey boo,ro,auh20 and all..hazel and Tom yall doing ok?..let me get logged in here at work...breakfast will be Cracker Barrel on possum and me...SPOT
December 19, 2007 - Msg 59025: Morning all.
Breakfast sounds good. Thanks Spot and Possum.

Possum, I forgot all about that fall I took in Yancey. Funny the things you forget when you bump yer noggin.

Ro, my prayers go with you and your health concern. I'm glad you are getting it checked out and pray they can offer you a simple and easy fix, like a different medication or something.

Concerning the issue of throw-up. My wife would rather lay in bed all day, maybe all week for that matter than to shoot her cookies. Me, on the other hand would much prefer to lose it quick and often (if need be). I mean I'd much rather that stuff be out of me than in, right? Anyway, just thought I'd say a word for the pro-puke folks.:)

Good to see you pappabear. Hope all is well for you.

Glad your Husband is on the mend Homemaker, and how cool for a new addition to your family. You too Me-They.

I hope your feeling better Lucy. I think I get those spasm things my self sometimes. Usually when I'm eating something dry and not chewing it up good enough. Very uncomfortable.

Sure will be glad when the 1st of the year gets here. We are trying to button up several big jobs before then. Trying to do to much to fast. But then again I'm off till the 2nd of Jan after this Friday, (unless I have to work Saturday to complete this one big nasty job) so that's not so bad I reckon.

Best go get after it.

Asa
December 19, 2007 - Msg 59026: Gross! Your post made me queezy, Asa! This throw-up talk is worse than the feet talk.

Yes Auh2o, and they had sargeants, too.

Our Christmas party at the drug rehab last night was great fun! We had a mountain of homemade cookies, hot cider, chips and dip and assorted Christmas candy (you know the kind wrapped in pretty foil). My friend, Mark, came along with his guitar and we sang and sang. The girls had a really wonderful time (and so did we). I was even able to give them all a big stuffed teddy bear before they left. Wish you all could have been there, I know you would have been blessed.

Well, I can slow down just a little bit today and try to keep the laundry caught up, etc. All the presents are wrapped and under the tree and all the Christmas parties are finished (except for one for Erin on Friday). I always enjoy the week of Christmas because it seems like things slow down a little for me.

Me-They, I'm washing, if you need your boxers done...

Boo
December 19, 2007 - Msg 59027: Good morning everyone. Just a brief drive-by hello until later.

BOO: No baggy boxers or tighty-whiteys for me; its boxer-briefs all the way. Let me sing their praises! Bet that's more than you wanted or needed to know, huh? It could be worse, though--commando.

Me-They
December 19, 2007 - Msg 59028: Good Morning to everyone. good to see ya'll.
cold and raining around this end of the porch.

Today is the last day of school for my daugther, They only have to go until 9:30. Does not make sense to me to run buses and turn the lights on for only 1 1/2 hours but no one asked me. :)
My son finished up on Friday last week as he did not have to take final exams at the high school.

My son Patrick will turn 17 on Friday December 21st.We sure do have a lot of December birthdays around. Happy Birthday to everyone!

Thanks for breakfast SPOT and Possum. and a big Happy 48 to SPOT.

I will take care of lunch today. How about Olive Garden at noon? see everyone there.

Boo, can you come over and finish up my holiday wrapping and do some cooking for me? I am impressed with you girl. You are such a blessing to those young women in rehab. I know you get a blessing as well.

Have a great day, Prayers and blessings to all.

Big Maude.
December 19, 2007 - Msg 59029: Good morning, all. Just got home from work, gonna hit the bed for a couple of hours, then get up and go get that monitor attached, then back home and back to bed so I can make it through tonight. And when I leave there in the morning, I'm done until the 28th! Yippee!

No episodes last night, not sure why. I did forget to take my medicine before I left - can't help but wonder if I'm taking too much atenolol. Will be sure to mention the circumstances to my doctor.

OK, off I go. Thanks for the encouraging words, friends. You mean so much to me. --Romeena
December 19, 2007 - Msg 59030: Whew busy here at work...hey Big Maude,Romeena,M-T,my buddy Asa,pappa,Tom,brother Rev and all....just a quick lungh menu: fried chicken strips,honey mustard sauce,big maude slaw,fries,homemade fudge and a coke....SPOT
December 19, 2007 - Msg 59031:

Praying for you, Romeena.

Nice to hear from you, Pappa Bear.

M-T, boxer briefs are a sight to behold.

~De§~

"Well if it ain't Daddy Longlegs..."



December 19, 2007 - Msg 59032:
HAZEL- maybe I can make your day. Check out:
www.wallaceandladmo.com and/or
www.legend-city.com (Don't forget the dash)
You and I are the only ones here who can relate,
but both sites are cool for AZ folks!
BOO- yes, that's it, the visible man and woman!
now that was some kind of strong plastic!
We also used to chuckle about the guy in the Operation game! ha
Possum, dont get the thought police on me! haha
Me-they, I'll be sure to let you know if i need a tiny plastic grenade! ha
BOO- that is great that you had a great party with the girls. I can bet that they are just starving for attention! Good for you doing that!
ASA- now we have pro-pukes and anti-pukes??haha
Snoopy's Christmas song just came on the radio.
I like that one. Christmas bells, those Christmas bells...
MDC
"Well, I think ole Ben drank the evidence. I can't hardly hold ya without evidence now, can I."


December 19, 2007 - Msg 59033:
I forgot, I was watching Diagnosis Murder (re-runs) on ION TV (used to be PAX) and it was the one with Andy playing the Matlock character.
At the end, he was playing a mandolin and singing "Mule, mule, that kickin mule.." song that he sang with the Darlings on tags! Neat ending. mdc
December 19, 2007 - Msg 59034: Oh, wow, MDC, of course I remember Wallace and Ladmo! I lived in Arizona from 1956 to 1966 (I shudder to think what I just revealed about myself.) And all the kids went to see them. I loved the website, and forwarded it to my mom. She was born and raised in Phoenix, and it will probably mean even more to her than to me. Thanks!
Spot turns 48 on Saturday? Let's have a party! Shhhh, let's make it a surprise. I'll be behind the bushes and say "hoot! hoot!" when I see him pull into the driveway.
Well, gotta go, hubby is calling.
- Hazel
December 19, 2007 - Msg 59035: KEEP YOUR EYES CLOSED IF M-T IS IN HIS BOXER
December 19, 2007 - Msg 59036:
Hello porch family.

Spot...yep brother, I'm home for Christmas. Don't have a concert till New Years eve and it will be near home so I get to be with my family all through the holidays.

Boo...no we might not be able to be at the rehab with you but it's a blessing just hearing you share what God is doing in those girl's lives.

Cracker Barrel and Olive Garden all in one day....I'm full.

Ro...enjoy your time off.

You all have a blessed night. And remember that I'm praying for you all.
-REV.
December 19, 2007 - Msg 59037: Thanks REV. Glad you are home for Christmas so you can be with family.

Me-They, what is it that you like about those boxer-briefs? Sean likes them but Bruce likes the regular nerd briefs. Seems to me that plain old boxers would be the most comfortable. I think I mentioned this once before but my dad (who has always been a boxer man) told my mom once that the reason he didn't like briefs was because they are like a cheap hotel, "no ballroom". How crude, right? haha

Think I'll head off to bed. When we got home from church tonight, Bruce was already home asleep in bed and I noticed the cold medicine was out on the counter. He must have a cold, darn it, and right before Christmas.

Boo
December 20, 2007 - Msg 59038: Good deal brother Rev...home for Christmas...morning gang...hey Boo,mavis,ro,Tom,auh20,M-T and all...breakfast will be on ME,country ham and egg bisquits,hashbrowns,oj,coffee...back in a bit...SPOT
December 20, 2007 - Msg 59039: Good morning everyone. Don't worry, I've got all my duds on...

Me-They
December 20, 2007 - Msg 59040: Good Morning all. working today, working about 1/2 day tomorrow and then off until next Thursday.

Thanks for the breakfast SPOT. YUM!

I think I'm pretty much ready for Christmas. I need to go to the grocery store probably Saturday but gifts are good to go.

Very Foggy here today and chilly. The heater on my van was not working all (what a time for it to go out). My husband was able to fix it so now it is warm and toasty inside again.

I will take care of lunch today: chicken noodle soup, grilled cheese sandwhiches. chocolate chip cookies and lemondade to drink.

Hope Everyone is feeling okay. Prayers for everyone today. Hope you are okay Romeena.

Big Maude