December 24, 2007 - Msg 59118: Well, it wasn't a stroke I don't think, but Don passed away with what sounds like a heart attack to me. Right after midnight tonigh, I think. I left my mother-in-law's house an hour ago and she is holding it together (still in shock, I think). I will have to tell the kids tomorrow and I'm not looking forward to that.

I think they are planning on creamating Don and having a memorial service after Christmas. Thank you for your prayers. Don lived a full life and was ready to meet the Lord so we have that to be very thankful for.

I better try to get some sleep..

Boo
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59119: I'm sorry for your loss, Boo. And at Christmas time too. Again, I'm very sorry, and hope you find the words to tell your kids. Take care!
- Hazel
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59120: Oh,Boo.. What can I say other than I am so sorry and will keep you and your family in my prayers.My heart aches for Sean and Erin,especially.Your Porch Family loves you -hope you can find some comfort in that.Take care,Julie.
*******************
possum under a rock
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59121: Morning Porch Family:
Boo; our heartfelt prayers are with you and the family, but what better place to celebrate a birthday (Christmas) than in the presence of the birthday boy!!!
Hope all the family is done their shopping and ready to relax. I've made cookies and the hot chocolate is ready. Pull up a rocker-lets visit a while. ~New Neighbor
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59122: Very sorry Boo...will be back in a bit to post...SPOT
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59123: Boo,

I said a prayer for you today. You and your famiy will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Opiemom
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59124: Gosh Boo, I am so sorry for your loss. I pray His spirit will comfort you all as you grieve Don's passing.

Asa
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59125: Prayers for your family Boo. Will check back in a while.

Big Maude
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59126: Oh, Boo, I'm so sorry. What a terrible time for your family to receive such a blow, but imagine Don's joy, arriving in Heaven just in time for the birthday! I found a lovely little Christmas ornament a few years back, and got one for my tree. I've often wished I had bought several, so I could send them to others at a time like this. It's a frosty white globe, has the traced figure of an angel on it, and in old-fashioned script it reads, "You may miss me, but I'm spending Christmas with Jesus this year." It has a place of honor on the very front of my tree. What a thought! It does take some of the ache out of the absence of loved ones at this season. Well, at least the thought is transferrable, even if I don't have more ornaments. Blessings and wisdom for Boo, please Lord, as she talks with Sean and Erin.

Must run - much to do. Still wrapping packages, gotta get that turkey in the oven, a prime rib roast to cook for a couple of folks who don't eat poultry, and if possible, maybe bathe Starr. She's not a stinky puppy, but she could look a little fresher with a bath.

Merry Christmas, all! --Romeena

P.S. Obviously, I'm cooking Christmas dinner today, on Christmas Eve. The family will gather here today, then have brunch at Eloise's in the morning before my DIL's sister and her family leave for Paris, then we'll go to my son's tomorrow evening. That way, we'll have spent time at everyone's house, both moms get to cook and do their thing, and my son and DIL will get to "do" for the family as well. It all works out, if everyone can be a little flexible.
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59127: i really loved to see the andy griffith show especially with don in the show. to me he really made the show a sucess. but andy griffith also made the show a sucess. to be honest every character on the show did their part to make the show a true comedy. but my favorite character of all was barney and im just sorry i couldn't meet him before he passed away. he lived a good live and im sure he enjoyed being on the andy griffith show. he was the perfect man to play the part of barney.
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59128: Thank you for such an outpouring of love and concern! My porch friends are such a comfort to me. I don't want you all to worry about me. We are doing ok. It is very true that I am rejoicing that Don is with the Lord. That was my first thought when I heard the news, and I must say that Don's passing will make the true meaning of Christmas even more real to us this year. Thank you for your many prayers for us. I love you all very much, and more than anything want you to have a very, very merry Christmas!

I'll try to check back later and join you all for some Christmas Cheer.

"God rest ye merry gentlemen,
let nothing you dismay.
Remember Christ our saviour was born on Christmas day.
to save us all from Satan's power
when we were gone astray.
Oh, tidings of COMFORT and joy....!"

Boo
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59129: Dear Boo, I am heartily sorry for your loss and pray for your family's comfort and understanding. We may ask "why" at Christmas but God would answer "because we needed him here." I'm thankful that he didn't have to languish with a long, painful illness. You and your family are certainly in my thoughts this Eve of Christmas.

If I haven't learned anything in life, I have learned that the power of a friend and the power of prayer are two forces of nature that can move mountains!

Have a blessed day everyone--Merry Christmas! MW

"God Bless Us, Everyone."
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59130: Christmas Card from the Floyd Family

Merry Christmas to all our friends from the Floyd Lawson (Newsome) Family!!

Here's the 2007 online Christmas card to you from the Lawson's.

http://mayberry.com/tagsrwc/wbmutbb/anewsome/private/christmascard2007.html

It's a flash animation type card and I hope you enjoy it. As an extra bonus, We thought you might like to see The Ghosts of Christmas Past in the form of all the "old" online Christmas cards from our family dating back from 1997 through 2007. The link is at the bottom of the card page.

We hope you enjoy them and have a VERY Merry Christmas!

--Floyd

PS- Boo, your family is in my family's prayers.
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59131: Thank you Floyd. I enjoyed your Christmas card. Merry Christmas to you and your dear family.

Thank you Merri. I know God has his plan, I just wish we had been able to have Don longer, but I don't want to be selfish, either. Jesus has been waiting a long time to get him home. You are right about it being good that he didn't have to suffer. It is a blessing to go quickly. Thank you for your prayers.

Well, I just got the cornbread out of the oven for the cornbread dressing. I make it all up the night before so the flavors will blend. I will get up early and put the turkey in the oven in the morning then fix the dressing and sweet potatoes. My sister is doing the rest so it shouldn't be too hard. I have to pick up Jill and go get Layla here in a little while. The caseworker came to see me yesterday and was concerned that Jill might try to run with Layla so I have to stay with her every minute. I will be taking her back home at 9:30 tonight.

I talked to Bruce this morning and his sisters are coming up to his mom's and we will all take turns staying with her for the next week. She lives about an hour from us in a mobile home park. She has some sweet neighbors but no family close by. Anyway, we will try to carry on here until after Christmas and there will be a memorial service sometime soon. Since he is being creamated, we don't have the time constraints we would have otherwise.

The kids are doing very well. They cried it out last night and seem fine today. I think Christmas is a good distraction for them.

Well, better get moving in that direction! Love to all,

Boo
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59132: ...make that Boo-Poo!....
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59133: Just wanted to wish you all a very very Merry Christmas.

Prayers and blessings to all and "Peace, Goodwill toward men"

Big Maude
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59134: Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.
Peace Dr P
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59135: BOO...may GOD be with you and the family
MAYBERRY DEPUTY
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59136: Well gang I would to like to say Merry Christmas to the friends of the porch, this year yall have meant so much to me and helped me in many ways,laugh,sad,worship,very much friendship,there when needed,and most of all the sharing of the season...Floyd thanks for all you have done the years past and future..you all know Im talking to the old porchers and very much to the new comers...just remember to allways pray to the man above and all will be answered...I love ya porch...I got to work in the morning to keep the lights on but he understands..get off at 12 and then its KID time ..like I said thanks again porch..prayers..the COOK dog...SPOT
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59137: Goodnight SPOT! Hope Santa brings you a big bone to enjoy! Merri "Christmas" Weather
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59138: Merry Christmas,
For Unto Us a Child is Born!
We are so blessed to be living in America where we can celebrate Christ's birth.
I am blessed to have y'all as my friends. It's amazing how our love of The Andy Griffith Show has made us such a family.
We are in Kentucky right now, but I will check back in after Christmas. Y'all have a blessed day!
Boo- I'm praying for your family.
Blessings to you and yours,
~Lucy

December 24, 2007 - Msg 59139: What a lovely day! Son and his wife and two little boys, and DIL's parents came for dinner. Lots of good food, then we went to the Christmas Eve service at church, which was beautiful. Just lovely! We came home and picked at the leftovers and had dessert, then let the kids open a few gifts. All in all, a very nice day. Tomorrow will be lovely, too. I've been very fortunate in that I haven't had to work through these days. Next weekend is another story, however. Still, I'm very grateful for these days.

Spot, I'm sorry you've had to work, but you're right, God understands. Somebody has to keep the lights on, and care for the sick, and man the firetrucks, and do police patrol - there are just some essential services that know no holidays or Sabbaths. I worked every other weekend for many years, and still work at least one a month. I've been criticized in the past for working on Sunday, and my answer was always the same. I answer with a question - "So are you saying that you think Christians should never be nurses, because the job requires working on some Sundays? So you would prefer that none of your nurses were Christians if you were in the hospital?" The usual answer was, "Well, uh, er...." (I know, I have a mean streak.)

Well, a very Merry Christmas to you all. Prayers, please, for my son. He's having a rough time of it. He's going to be okay, but he's pretty sick right now. I'm praying for the needs that have been expressed here by all of you, and isn't it wonderful that we can do that for each other?

Starr says Merry Christmas, too. --Romeena
December 24, 2007 - Msg 59140:
Hello porch family...well it's after midnight here so I can say "Merry CHRISTmas" to all my porch family.

Boo...prayers for your family during this time.

Ro...my daughter came in today with a big tote bag. I thought it was a huge pocketbook. Then she said dad here's your new "grandson" and out popped a little Sh#tzapoo puppy. It's cute as a button. Just loves to be loved and to play. Already spoiled rotten.

Well gotta get to bed. I'm tired. Please know that you folks are always in my prayers and I really mean that. You folks mean the world to me. Thanks for taking me into the porch family over two years ago.
-REV.
December 25, 2007 - Msg 59141: Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night! Best wishes for a happy 2008!

Deputy Warren Ferguson
December 25, 2007 - Msg 59142: Merry Christmas to all my friends at the porch.
- Hazel
December 25, 2007 - Msg 59143: Merry Christmas Y'all! I love all of you.

Had a very nice Christmas Eve with my sister( the sweet one) and her kids. I gave her a present that was intended for my mother,bought before she passed the word that she did not want a gift from me.My sister protested that I didn't have to get her a gift,and I told her it was originally meant for Mama and I thought I'd give it to her in grat*tude for her understanding and sticking by me through all of my family's ugliness.She looked at me and said "I would NEVER abandon you." There could be a zillion presents under my tree today but no better gift than that.Well,I CAN think of one-the reason for the season!

"Go tell it on the mountain
Over the hills and everywhere
Go tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born..."

*****Merry Christmas*****
possum under a rock
December 25, 2007 - Msg 59144: Good morning, everyone! It's Christmas! Christ was really born, really lived, really died, and really rose again, and He really lives today! Can't you just feel it? There's just something in the air on a Christmas morning, a joy and a peace that creeps into one's soul.

REV, what a lovely gift from your daughter! That's gotta be one cute pup! We'll need a picture of him real soon. How old is he? What did you name him?

I wish you could all have seen little 3.5 lb Starr playing with 40 lb Bentley last night, bossing him around, nipping his nose, rolling and tumbling around the house. Bentley is so precious, he plays so gently with her, pulls all the punches, and lets her win. They're a sight - really good friends and playmates, the tiny pup and the big old galumph.

Well, I'm off to my friend's house for a Christmas brunch (my DIL's mom) and then out to my son's tonight, for tamales and chili, and to clean up the leftovers!

Have a blessed Christmas day, everyone. --Romeena
December 25, 2007 - Msg 59145:
Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head.
The stars in the sky looked down where he lay,
The little Lord Jesus asleep in the hay.


The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes, But little Lord Jesus no crying he makes. I love Thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky And stay by my cradle til morning is nigh.

Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay Close by me forever, and love me, I pray. Bless all the dear children in thy tender care, And take us to heaven, to live with Thee there.


What more could be said on this most joyous of days? I pray that God keeps you, wraps his loving arms around each and everyone one of you...Happy Christmas, Happy Day to all! Merri "Christmas" Weather
December 25, 2007 - Msg 59146: Merry Christmas, Porch Friends. Hope you all enjoy your day!

Been busy cooking all day and now will be going to the folks house to meet with family and have out dinner.

Very glad to hear that your sister is so supportive, Possum. That does my heart good to hear it. There is something so important about hearing those words, "I would never abandon you". That God's loving speaking. Bless your dear sister for her loving heart.

Better get moving....I think I'll need a few Advil and some squeezin'g to get me movin' in the right direction.....

Boo
December 25, 2007 - Msg 59147: Hmmm, "out dinner"...sounds interesting...of course I meant to say "our" dinner....man, I AM tired.

Boo
December 25, 2007 - Msg 59148: ...or it sounds like dinner at Senator Larry Craig's place.
December 25, 2007 - Msg 59149: Evenin' Porch Family:
Merry CHRISTmas! Had to work last night, and really enjoyed waking the elder folks up to give them their meds and wish them a very "Merry Christmas". They were jsut like children. I didn't miss the opportunity to share the Reason for the Season. He is so good!!!
We have had a quiet day on this side of the proch, with lots of action last night. It's so good when family gets together, the children laughing and sharing memories (I thought they didn't notice all the time I tried to make memories) Wow, that felt good...
Off to watch my TAGS. Blessings to all! ~New Neighbor
December 25, 2007 - Msg 59150:
Happy Birthday JESUS

Well I pray you all had a great Christmas Day. I sure ate too much....again. It was just so wonderful to spend time with the family.

Possum...I'm sure your sister made your day. Praise the Lord!

Ro...She named him Jake....I really don't know where that name come from. She just laughed and said he looked like a "Jake". He is so cute. He's 2 mo. old. She had been talking about getting a puppy but I was really against it. I told her to wait till she got out of college and settle down before getting a dog on her own. Well her best friend told her about these puppies, so she went to see them....and that did it. Even though I was first against it, I know it will be great company for her at her apartment. She just loves animals and this little fellow loves her to death. And I even fell in love with the little stinker. I'll get Erica to make some pics as soon as she can and get them to you.

Well just wanted to drop by and check in real quick. Prayers for all the porch family and have a Jesus filled night! Jesus loves us so much!
-REV.
December 26, 2007 - Msg 59151: Well, of course you fell in love with him. Who can resist an adorable little puppy? Their unfeigned innocence, even while standing in the middle of a shredded newspaper or some other disaster - they're so much like little children. And they are so much company! Starr is a card-carrying cuddler, and I just love it.

This has been a lovely Christmas. Still worried about my son, but he's stable, and eventually will be fine, I know. I'd love to go to him, but there's nothing I can do, and he's in good hands. I'll just stay here and get my pacemaker, and will get out there to Florida in the spring. I'm in touch with his wife, and as I said, he's in good hands.

We spent the evening out at my younger son's house, and finished things off by watching "The Nativity Story", which he had recorded from TV when it was broadcast earlier. Extremely well done presentation of the story, very powerful. I'm going to try to find it on DVD.

Well, Merry Christmas, y'all, and in the words of Tiny Tim - God bless us, every one. --Romeena
December 26, 2007 - Msg 59152: Morning Porch. Good to see everyone.
Ro, we have The Nativity Story on dvd I was really reluctant to watch it but finally did last week. I was shocked. It really is well done. I didn't think Hollyweird could do anything like that anymore. Very nice indeed.

Well, like most of you, I ate way yonder to much yesterday, but had a good old time doing it. I had to keep telling myself "but it's only once a year" as Bob Cratchet would tell Scrooge. Had all the family over and got to hold the new Grandaughter for a while. Life is so good. And it was great to talk to the children and discuss what it is we are really celebrating. That all seem to have a good grasp of what Chrstmas is all about.

N.N. Is Meredith doing any better?

Rev, the puppy sounds cute.

Boo, are you guys doing alright? Prayers for you.

I think I'll be watching some TAGS today. I'm off until Jan. 2nd. and loving it.

Hope and pray you are all well.

Asa
December 26, 2007 - Msg 59153: Asa and Ro, Glad to hear The Nativity Story is well made. We meant to watch it and didn't get around to it. I'll try to get it to watch.

We're on the road today to Tenn. to visit with Grandma. I'll try to check in on her computer. If I don't I'll "see" you all next week.

Opiemom
December 26, 2007 - Msg 59154: I'm with you, Opiemom, two years in a row I have meant to watch The Nativity Story and didn't get to. Last year I was stuck in a blizzard in Peublo and didn't get home until the day before Christmas, I think. This year, well, it just didn't happen. I have a copy of it on DVD somewhere.

Well, Asa, it was a blessing to hear about your Christmas with your family (that goes for all of you, of course). I think this year has really been a challenge for alot of us but we can still rejoice in the birth of Christ because of the hope that is in us! Last night, before leaving my parent's house, I was standing at the front door and turned to say goodbye. I had to just let my eyes rest on everyone present and take in the glowing lights, the smiles and laughs. I am keenly aware this year of how fragile life is and want to savor moments like this with my family. God has been very good to us and each of my immediate family memebers is well and my parents are still with us. I have alot to be thankful for.

Bruce and I (and the kids) will be spending the next couple of days with my mother-in-law (Ann) and Bruce is there now meeting with the funeral director. Ann is doing pretty well and has had lots of support from her church friends and neighbors (nothing like living in a small town). She was talking about moving back to Corpus Christi to be closer to everyone but I am hoping she will move outside of town where it's easier to drive. She has Parkinson's and is really shaky when it comes to driving.

Thank you all for your sweet words and your prayers. Sean and Erin are doing very well and have already accepted it. I saw Sean crying durning the Christmas Eve service at church but that was the last of it. He seems to be doing very well now.

Ro, did they ever determine why your Dale had the seizure? What is your feeling about what is going on with him? Prayers for him that he recovers quickly and fully.

Have to hit a half-price sale and try to find a gold chain. Bruce bought me a beautiful diamond heart necklace for Christmas but the chain is really short. I am going to try to find a longer one at a good price.

I will try to check in over the next couple of days but my mom-in-law has dial-up so we'll see. Have a wonderful day.

Boo


December 26, 2007 - Msg 59155: Hey gang brother Rev the pup will be a hoot for you!..hey Opiemom,Boo prayers,Romeena you working any over the holidays?..hey possum,asa,hazel and all...well im off to work again..will check in a little aftrr 2...Big Maude lets all stop at red lobster for lunch on me....SPOT
December 26, 2007 - Msg 59156: Young King Wensenslaus went down on the feast of Stephen...
December 26, 2007 - Msg 59157: Where the snow lay round about, deep and crisp and even. (Young King Wenceslaus?)
December 26, 2007 - Msg 59158: Good afternoon, everyone. Boo, he seems to have several things going on, that in combination threw him into a seizure. They don't think it will happen again, he seems to be stable, and the effort now is to correct the things that led to it. I think he's going to be just fine.

You said "I was standing at the front door and turned to say goodbye. I had to just let my eyes rest on everyone present and take in the glowing lights, the smiles and laughs. I am keenly aware this year of how fragile life is and want to savor moments like this with my family." You are so right. It's all so fleeting. I inherited the home my parents had lived in for 20 years, and it's now a rental. It's painful every time the house is vacant and I have to go over to get it ready to be rented again. Many times I've stood in that big den, and imagined the Christmas tree in the corner, a fire in the fireplace, the friends and relatives all sitting around with big smiles and I can almost hear the conversation and the laughter. I can picture my mom busy in the kitchen, my dad hovering around helping her - it's hard to give it up.

Everything changes, though, it's inevitable. The street is a cul-de-sac, and in years past all the homeowners coordinated their efforts and decorated with lights until it's a wonder planes didn't try to land there. People drove from all over town to see the sight. There was a constant procession of cars entering, driving slowly down the street, turning in the cul-de-sac and proceeding back out. Some people would stop and get out to take pictures. It was quite a sight. Well, a friend and I drove over there one night last week, and there were only three houses out of the fifteen or so on the street that had any lights on at all, and they were rather small displays. It was just so sad! Things just change, no getting around it.

On the other hand, the street where my son now lives is brilliant with lights and just beautiful. The torch passes, and I suppose that's as it should be.

Little Starr had a victory last night. I was watching as she crouched and rocked back and forth, trying to get up her nerve, and finally gave a big jump and made it to the top of the ottoman! When she first came, she had trouble getting up one step into the kitchen - she had to climb up. Now she sails onto that step like a tiny gazelle, and last night she made it to the ottoman. No stopping her now! Maltese love to climb, like cats, and soon I'll be finding her lying along the back of my big chair, I'm sure. That was always the Plum's favorite perch.

Well, guess I'll go cuddle the little rascal, she's in here trying to lead me to the chair. She wants her afternoon nap, and in fact, it sounds like a pretty good idea to me, too. See you later, friends. --Romeena
December 26, 2007 - Msg 59159:
"Remember, no man is a failure who has friends.
Thanks for the wings!"

December 26, 2007 - Msg 59160:
Andy: Aunt Bee, you mean to tell me that that fella, Henry Wheeler, saw those little bitty aphids on our roses all the way from his TRUCK?
Aunt Bee (shyly): ah huh
December 26, 2007 - Msg 59161:
Whew, hi again! All the relatives are gone now. We had a great Christmas eve service and then Christmas day at my brother's and his dw. My bro did a neat prayer remembering my mother. Then we all had a great meal together and exchanged gifts. Lots of fun.
My prayers for boo and her family, and also for HM and hers as I see that she hasnt checked in lately.
I see that the squeezins need replenishing, I'll see what i can find.
God bless, more later,
MDC
December 26, 2007 - Msg 59162: Hey MDC,Romeena,Opiemon,asa and all...any leftovers for the dog?..i missed supper...brother Rev is the puppy doing ok?..im here at work all night....back in a bit....SPOT
December 26, 2007 - Msg 59163: Here's a plate of leftovers, Spot. I'll put it by your bowl of water.
- Hazel
December 26, 2007 - Msg 59164: Hey there folks:
Just popped by for a minute. Got off work and getting ready to hit the ironingboard...oops, just got a call to go into work tonight... see ya soon. ~New Neighbor
December 26, 2007 - Msg 59165:
Hello porch family....Glad everyone had a great Christmas. I've enjoyed reading all the special stories from today's post.

Ro...so glad that things are looking up for your son. Still praying for complete recovery.

Hey Spot....the puppy stays with my daughter at her college apartment. But he's doing great. All those girls will really have him spoiled rotten.
I'll get some leftovers to you brother. I had leftovers tonight for supper along with some fresh turnip greens.

Well gotta catch up on some paper work. Prayers for all the porch family. Be sure to tell someone that Jesus loves them....and of course...remember, HE loves you too!
-REV.


December 26, 2007 - Msg 59166:
Hey there Hazel and New N. Didn't mean to rock on you.
-REV.
December 26, 2007 - Msg 59167: Oh, boy, REV, those turnip greens sound good! There are not many things I enjoy more than good greens - turnip, mustard, kale, spinach, whatever! I used to cook them all the time, but rarely do anymore, since I discovered the Glory brand canned ones. I declare, they're so good it's just not worth the trouble to cook them myself. Glory makes a lot of things - their blackeyed peas are good too, but their greens are just great. I've got a few cans in the pantry, maybe I'll have some tomorrow with the last of the leftover turkey.

Yep, little Jake in the clutches of a bunch of college girls - he'll be so rotten it will just be pitiful. Such fun!

I had my echocardiogram today, and the tech being a friend of mine, I pretty much know the results though I haven't talked to the doctor yet. The ejection fraction is about 50%, which is acceptable. Not as good as it was a while back, at 58%, but 50% is not bad. Valves are essentially unchanged from a year ago, so that's good. Looks like it will be a "go" to get the pacer. I see that doctor on January 2. I'm ready.

Starr needs some eyedrops to help her little tear drainage ducts stay open, and I hate to admit it, but I absolutely cannot get them in her eyes. She fights me like a tiny tiger, wriggles and struggles to get away and I just can't hold her with one hand and get the drop in with the other. I've gotten them all over her face, in her ear, in her nose, on my hand, everywhere but in her eye. She's so little and fragile that I'm afraid I'll hurt her if I really pin her down, so I guess I'll give up. The doctor said they "might" help some, so at least they're not something essential.

She just pranced through here dragging a 3-foot long roll of Christmas wrap, which she found under the bed. She looks hilarious, towing that big roll of paper. Such a little clown.

Well, guess I'll hit the hay. Haven't done much today, but am tired. A good night's sleep is what I need. Be blessed, everyone! --Romeena
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59168: Hazel and Rev thanks for the leftovers!..all nighter here at work..."Gone Fishing" movie on right now...funny...night NN ....well let me get my midnight reports ran...SPOT
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59169: Hi guys and gals,

I had an eventful day today. First, my battery in the car was drained because a door wasn't closed all the way. And I have found it near impossible to jump-start that thing. Guess I am not doing it right. So I took my parent's car to work. Luckily, my brother came over tonight and we used his Caddy and got it started.

The other thing was that I listened to my voice messages after work to find that I had a rather disturbing, and threatening, phone message on my cell. I reported it to the police, but they said they can't do anything until they call 5 times. Isn't that crazy?
I just want to find out the region that this call came from, so I can better determine if this was some kid making a prank phone call(he/she did say stuff using a fake Arabic accent), or if it is something that I need to be worried about. I did have some trouble with some people years ago. But that was in the 80's!
I was kind of more upset at first because the person used my first name. Although then I found out that I said my first name in my outgoing message on my voicemail, but what they said was disturbing nonetheless.
I hope it is a prank. But still, I want to find out who did this. I can just imagine if they do this kind of thing to a little old lady or something, because I know I probably won't sleep too well tonight, and I am a strapping young(ish) lad.
I am going to go to my phone service provider tomorrow(I wish I didn't work tomorrow, and I already was late getting to work today because of the car, but I don't really want to wait until after work) and see if they can find anything out about the caller(who obviously used *67, because the caller ID said Restricted). I have already been scouring the internet to find out how I could possibly find the number of who called.
I have enough to worry about. I don't need this as well.

Romeena, I hope your son is feeling better and it is nothing serious.

Boo, sorry for your loss.

-Sterling Holobyte
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59170: Hey, Sterling. That is very frustrating, isn't it - that someone can call you and restrict your ability to identify them. Seems there should be a way to block any incoming call that has used the *67. It should work both ways. Maybe that does exist and I just don't know it. I doubt it though, because that would block most sales and political calls, and that would be a big lobby against such a measure. Anyway, I hope you find out that it was just kids being stupid, and the chances are that's exactly what it was.

Well, this time I'm really going to bed. Got started playing Tumnblebugs before, am still at the keyboard. I used to play Zuma, but nowadays, it's Tumblebugs. Harmless little game, and fun.

Be blessed, everyone. --Romeena
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59171: Morning Gang im fixing to head home from work, its almost 6 am..breakfast will be 3 eggs your way,flapjacks with maple syurp,bacon,toast,grits,oj,coffee and milk...did in..Asa its cold yall all dress well...SPOT
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59172: Hey Ro,
Yeah, there is something that blocks those calls and forces them to unblock their phone #'s if they want to continue with the call, but I don't know if my phone company carries that. I'll find out today. Course it will probably cost extra.

Tumblebugs, huh?! Never heard of that one. My dad used to like to play Lemmings on the computer. I don't think he has played that in a while. That's about as close to using the computer as he wanted to get. :)

Hey, Spot. Thanks for breakfast!

-Sterling Holobyte
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59173: Morning all, hope everyone is doing okay. Back to work today. I need to be jump started after being off for 5 days.

Thanks for breakfast SPOT. Hope you are doing okay and had a good birthday and Christmas,

I will take care of lunch today: homemade chicken noodle soup, grilled cheese. fruit and littledebbie cakes for dessert. tea, grape kool aide to drink.

Prayers and blessings to all today.

Boo, I hope you and your family are doing okay, you are in my thoughts and prayers.

take care today Everybody.

Big Maude
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59174:
I got call blocking when it first came out, and when i call some numbers it will say "this phone does not accept blocked calls. Dial star 82 to unblock your call."
Sterling, will be praying for you buddy. You are right, you dont need that kind of thing, no one does.
God bless,
MDC
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59175: Good afternoon everyone. I hope that you all had a wonderful Christmas. I’m sorry to hear about your son’s illness, ROMEENA, and your father-in-law’s passing, BOO. You and your families are in my prayers.

We had a great Christmas. On Christmas Eve we had my parents, grandmother, and mother-in-law for diner, which the Mrs. did an outstanding job on (eatin’ speaks louder than words). Then, we went to church for a beautiful candlelight service. We got the kids in bed by 9:00 p.m. and spent the rest of the evening wrapping a few last minutes gifts and relaxing. On Christmas Day, the kids got us up at 6:30, we opened gifts, had breakfast, and headed to my parents for lunch. After visiting with them and my brother’s family, we headed to my grandmothers for her open house. Thankfully, she lives in an apartment attached to our house so we could put the baby down for a nap in her crib and after a while we could roll home. Then, the kids played while we relaxed on the sofa, ate leftovers, lots of junk, and watched TAGS season 6 (my gift from the Mrs.).

Yesterday, I had taken off, much to the chagrin of my family. One thing I don’t like about Christmas is the disorder in creates. So, I am usually pretty quick about putting all the gifts where they belong—toys away, clothes hung in closets, etc. (I have been known to do it Christmas morning). Since I was off, I was able to go that extra mile: I had the kids go through their toys and get rid of stuff they didn’t play with anymore, I went through the clothes in my closet, and “encouraged” the Mrs. to go through a few drawers. All in all, by last night you’d never know Christmas had happened at our house. And I feel much, much better! Everyone else is glad I’m at work today so the Mrs. can relax and the kids enjoy their gifts.

Happy belated birthday, SPOT.

I’ll try and stop back later this afternoon.

Me-They
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59176: And by the way, I promise no moulages (thick or runny) until the new year!

M-T
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59177: I just saw your comments about your prank calls, STERLING. That is annoying. It's probably just a prank, though. Kinda makes you hanker for the old "Sir Walter Raleigh in a can" days. I won't comment too much farther, and possibly get into my opinion of cell phones, as that leads mighty close to moulage waters ;).

M-T
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59178: Man lets keep this show on the air as long as possible. It doesnt get any better than this. Been to 3 reunion shows and Mt.Airy once. I wanna hi to all the re-run watchers. As Barney would say nip it in the bud!!

Dave D.
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59179: Well, hey there, Dave D. I believe you're a newcomer here? Stick around, find yourself a TAGS name (or not, it's not mandatory), grab a rocker and stay a while. I'll tell you straight up that we don't stick to TAGS all the time, we discuss just about everything, so if that would be a problem for you, just be aware. We do try to maintain a Mayberry spirit in our discussions, though, so everyone is safe here. Bring the kids!

Word from my DIL yesterday is that my son is improving, but it's going to take a while to get his liver back to normal after the excessive OTCs. I just wish he had gotten that hip replaced long ago, but he didn't, so there we are. He's such a good guy, I really wish he wasn't having to deal with this.

Me-They, you'd have kicked me out years ago. My desk has twin stacks of papers that need to be dealt with, and if it wasn't for the pull-out shelves on each side, the stacks would fall off. I'm a packrat, I'm messy, and I can sit right down beside all this clutter and play computer games! Now, I want a clean bathroom, clean beds, and a clean kitchen. When I'm cooking a meal, by the time it's on the table the pots are washed and in the drainrack, the stove is wiped clean, the sink is clean and the kitchen is in order. I cannot sit down to eat with all the mess of preparation staring me in the face. My desk, my closet and my dresser drawers - now that's another matter. If I can close a drawer, it's fine, even if it takes force! Used to drive my husband crazy. Oh well, I guess it takes all kinds.

Well, I see that the waterfall has stopped on the pond, guess the filter is covered with leaves again. Algae isn't a problem right now, but big old leaves fall in, sink and block the filter. Drat, it's 40 degrees out there, and that water is going to be COLD! Still, the fish need the aeration of the waterfall, so out I go. Brrrr!

Be blessed, everyone! --Romeena
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59180: To each his (or her)own, ROMEENA! The world certainly would be a drab, dull place if we all were alike. And I have a suspicion that most people (my own family included) would rather have spent the day after Christmas at your place.

I'm glad that your son is improving. I have a good friend who (at age 39) just had his hip replaced. He's a very active guy but the pain had gotten to a point that he could no longer sleep properly and had to cut down on interacting with his kids (he has three boys, ages 7 to 12 who love sports). He also downed too much over-the-counter pain/anti-inflamatory medicine. It still was an agolnizing decision (should he have the surgery, and, if so, what kind of replacement), but now that it's behind him he is so pleased it is done. I'm sure it's difficult for a "healthy" active young guy to conceed that his hip needs replacing. There is a certain stigma there, I guess. But now my friend knows that it sure beats the constant pain.

Me-They
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59181: Hey to Dave D.!

M-T
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59182: Good afternoon Porchsters! Finally getting time to get on here & say hello to everyone. I pray you all had a great time over Christmas & things are looking up for those that are having a hard time right now.
I had a wonderful holiday, Jake was here & spending time with my brother & his family after 19 years away from him was great! Jake was so excited with his gift, he said it almost made him cry. I told you all it was a big gift, but wouldn't tell you what it was because he knows how to find the porch & I didn't want the surprise ruined, so now I can tell you.
I bought a 1997 Dogde Avenger a few years back & Jake has tried everything in his power to talk me out of it, even going as far as telling me (& I quote) "Mom, that's a young person's car, not an old lady car, I would look better in it than you do" could have kicked his behind for that one if he wasn't 19 years old & 6 foot tall. ;)
Anyway, I gave him the car for Christmas & just seeing his face light up with disbelief was worth everything I did to keep it hidden all this time! I got one of those digital camera bundles that you can print pictures right off the camera from, and Mr. Neff got a backup camera for the motorhome, so all in all, we had a good time. The best part for me was having those I love around me. I still miss my Mother terribly & it still feels like someone is missing, but I did have a good holiday.
Romeena try sitting in your chair with the ottoman in front of you, hold that little greased pig of a puppy between your legs in a sort of head-lock with her back legs resting on the ottoman for support, you don't have to apply alot of pressure, just enough that she can't get away & you should be able to get the drops in that way. I have 2 here that I have to use that old groomer's trick on. It doesn't hurt them, just gets them in a position that one person can handle. Does make them mad to lose the battle tho. Good luck with her, I know how squiggly puppies can be.
Boo prayers are with your family for your loss, glad the kids are doing better with it.
Best get off here for a while, I am fighting a horrible cold & think I'm gonna go hit the ironing board again, I've been there for most of the day. Me-They can you come straighten my place up while I try to fight this bug off? I promise to keep my naked feet under the covers.
Oh, and a big welcome to you Dave D.
*Mavis
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59183: Boy, for someone that is sick as a dog I sure did alot of "talkin" didn't I?
*Mavis
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59184: Good grief, I gotta learn to proof-read~ make that a Dodge not a Dogde. Think I'll blame that on the cold meds. teehee
*Mavis
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59185: MAVIS: Like Gomer, you may be sick as a dog, but having the time of your life. Now don't go ruining Christmas and start talking about feet! Hope you feel better, soon.

M-T
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59186:
MeThey- My only comment on season six is this: WARREN!! ha
Hey, there's that old moulage again, and darn if it aint still 2007! hee hee
I was looking on the net for a good treatment for cracked fingertips, especially my thumb tips get cracked in the winter, and there it was: one of the ideas to try was, yup, you guessed it VICKS!!
So i tried some, and so far it is beating everything else that i have tried.!!
Prayers continue for boo's family
APB for Charlotte, KY girl, POOR Horatio and others. Prayers especially since they didnt check in for Christmas.
ole MDC

December 27, 2007 - Msg 59187: Mavis,come hang out with me under my rock-I've got one of those nasty colds too! We'll just take our cold meds and be loopy together! I don't know what's worse-the way the cold makes you feel or those fool medications!

Hope everybody else is well,cause I ain't got a lotta room under my rock for any more "sickies"!

Y'all take care!
*****Sniff,sniff,sneeze*****
possum under a rock
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59188: Hey Mavis, Good to see you. What a nice gift to your son. You and Possum be careful down there in that hole taking all them meds now, you hear?!

Romeena, you suddenly have gotten my attention with your comments about Dale and his OTC's. I honestly wonder if I may have a problem with extra strength Excedrin. I've been taking a couple of those a day for a number of years now to ward off headaches and back problems. Is that a problem do you think? It seems if I don't I get horrible headaches. My wife says I'm addictied to the caffine in them, but now I'm worried if I might be doing my liver some damage. What do you think?

Asa
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59189:
Asa, Have you tried a google search such as "Excedrin chronic use" ? It may turn up something.
It could be the caffeine. If you stopped, then the headaches would probably be a "withdrawl feature".
that's my layman's two cents worth. Then try some natural remedies for the pain.
ole MDC
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59190: M-T thanks for the b-day thought..Big Maude you too!..Welcome David D!..where are ya located on the porch/..im in Ga!..Rev check in brother..Mavis possum yall take some vicks!..hey to all....oh-oh phones going nuts here at work ...back in a bit....SPOT
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59191: Asa, I was just about to post the same comments. As I think you all know, I have scoliosis, and I have been taking OTC's for years. I have chronic pain, and it's about the only way I can face most days.
But I didn't come here to talk about my pains. I was mainly just checking in. Take care everybody.
- Hazel
December 27, 2007 - Msg 59192: Good evening, all. Asa, I doubt that two Excedrim ES daily is going to do much harm, but it's possible. Why not try tapering off of them, dropping a half tab at a time, over a two or three week period? Do you drink coffee or tea? If so, have a cup of coffee or glass of tea at the same time to replace the caffeine, because I suspect MDC is right. Truthfully, if you would get a headache without the Excedrin, and caffeine isn't the culprit, then I'd have to wonder just what's actually causing them. I'd bet a cookie that it's the caffeine, though.

Possum, and Mavis, I'm so sorry you have those miserable colds. Sure does make you feel bad. So far this winter, I've dodged them. BTW, do you know why we old folk seem to get fewer colds? It's because there is a finite number of cold viruses, something like 280 or something like that, and by the time you get to be my age, you've had most of them and are immune. Some winters, I never catch even one. When I do, it's usually a real doozy.

Where has Tom been? He hasn't been here in a few days. I hope he had a good Christmas. I miss his poems.

Mavis, I'll bet Jake was really excited about that car. However, after his "old lady" remark, I do think I'd have hung some lace curtains on the windows before presenting it to him, just for fun, and maybe some nice chintz seat covers! Durn kid!

Mavis, thanks for the advice on how to subdue my little Houdini. Actually, that's pretty much how I hold her still to get her topknot put up, but she doesn't fight that anywhere near as hard as she fights the eyedrops. I don't know if they sting a little or what, but she's terrified, and just fights like you wouldn't believe. The other night, I had my son holding her, and I was helping with one hand and holding the drops in the other, and we never did get it done. It's like trying to hold a wet eel. Oh, we could hold her, with sheer force, but I do believe she'd fight until she broke a leg or something. She is something else, the little goofball. Sweet as she can be, but typically Maltese stubborn.

Well, back to my chair and a little more Starr cuddles. She's a cuddle-sponge, and that's good. Blessings, all! --Romeena