December 03, 2008 - Msg 68334: Oh, and thanks for the prayers REV. They are felt. I'll share more later...

Boo
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68335: Morning Porch, hope everyone is up and ready to face the day. Thanks for breakfast SPOT. Those that can should take pictures of you Christmas lights for the Album. I would love to see them.

Been kinda busy so not much time this week to stop by. Things will probably slow down a bit now that we are getting close to the holidays.

COLD here today.. around 20 degrees. BRRR.

Lunch will be: loaded potato soup, grilled cheese sandwhiches, chips, pickles. Little debbie cakes, tea, kool aid to drink.


Lucy, football is over. not such a good season though. Out football days are over as Patrick graduates in May. I can't believe the school year is almost 1/2 over.

Heard back from 1 of my tests yesterday. Some changes since the last one in 2002 so I have to have another one in 6 months. Dr. said he did not think it was anything to be concerned about but wants to keep a check on things. Still waiting on the "offical verification" on the other one. I think if something was up with it they would have called by now. Well enough
about my tests!

Got my tree up and decorated, some shopping done.
My close friend and I are going to Pigeon Forge on Friday for a girls day out. We have gone for the past several years. We shop, go to Dolllywood to see the lights and Christmas shows and of course eat! Looking forward to my day away as well as spending time with my friend.

Prayers for Boo,Lucy, Tom and everyone else around the porch.

Better get to the day ahead.

Prayers and blessings to all.

Big Maude
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68336: Mornin' Y'all! Sorry I was AWOL yesterday,but boy am I glad I can always go back and read the archives-otherwise,I'd never have known about the constipated chihuahua! Ha Ha That struck me as funny too! Hope little Gizzy got some relief! And Boo,I'm still praying for Sean & your entire family. I know God will work it all out.
Me-They,I'll have Nora in my prayers as well.Isn't she around 8 or 9? That seems to be "The Age"-if they are gonna act out it's usually around that time,it seems to me. One of my nieces is at "The Age" and it's hard reining her in. Hopefully you'll get her back on track soon.
Prayers for Bryson,Lucy.
Maude,glad your medical test news wasn't very distressing. Now you go and have a good time in Pigeon Forge.Buy me something! Hee Hee
Tom,as folks have said already,we are here for you buddy.
I did most of my Christmas shopping yesterday.When I got back home,there was a huge box outside my house. Seems a friend of mine drove down on a whim (she lives about an hour and a half from me) and brought me a box full of Christmas goodies! A homemade apple pie,a GIANT chocolate chip cookie,a snowman cookie jar,plates and baskets of homemade cookies and fudge- unbelievable! Man,I need to leave the ROCK more often! I was mad that I missed her-sounds like I pulled in just 15 minutes after she'd left.
So,Maude,you just lay those Little Debbie cakes aside today at lunch because I'm bringing cookies,fudge and apple pie for dessert!
Y'all have a good day!
******************
possum under a rock
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68337: Good Morning Porchsters! Cold one here this morning, 20 degrees @ 9:00! Sun is shining & looks beautiful, but it's still cold. Good to see you Lucy check your email. Prayers for your family as well.
We're planning to start the "Official" move this weekend! YAH!! We are going to put up the kennel for the dogs this weekend & get started with the furniture. I can't wait to see the dogs in the new place, they are gonna LOVE it! We are getting the kennels from Southern States, they have all the hardware & panels for a 10x10x6 kennel cheaper than anyone else, so we are going to get 2 for sure, possibly 3 & just hook them all up together so they can have running/playing room & still be safe. Only thing that doesn't come with the 'kit' are the tops for them, so we'll have to find those. Between Darla, the Bull Terrier that can stand on all fours & clear a 6 foot fence & the Red-Tail Hawks I've seen out there already, I won't rest until the kennel is covered. Don't need her running all over the woods & I don't want those Hawks thinking I'm offering up supper when I put the Chihuahuas & Toy Poodles outside.
Anyway, I've rambled enough, best get ready to head in the direction of the grooming shop. I'm so glad it's just downstairs & I don't have to get out in this cold.
Later taters,
*Mavis
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68338: Good morning everyone. We have a crystal clear sky here today but it’s chilly. It was 24 degrees when I woke up but it is supposed to warm into the low 50s today. Rain is predicted tomorrow.

MAVIS: When the house warming? Congrats!

HAZEL: Thanks for posting on my APB. If you run into AFD at Miss Crump’s, let her know that we miss her around here. You can say “hey” from Me-They.

LUCY: Great to hear from you. Stop by more often.

POSSUM: Yep, Nora is 8. I took the Mrs. and my mom out on Black Friday. We got out about 5:00 a.m. and were done by 11:00. It was busy, and the lines were long, but actually not so bad as it appeared. The line at Kohl's wnet all the way through the store but we stood in line only about 15 minutes. They really had their employees expiditing well. Same thing at Target. We also went to a local mall. Most of our shopping is done now, but we still have the difficult ones to buy for--you know, the one's who have everything but you can't leave off the list.

MDC: I get your drift.

Thanks for all your assurances, advice, and prayers regarding Nora. It has been such a trial. Don’t get me wrong, she’s a great girl with a big heart. She never gives us one worry about doing something rude or embarrassing in public. She really has a great sense of the social graces, and she’s always been very kind and considerate of others feelings. But! She is a scamp with attitude lately. She seems to always want the last word, doesn’t want to take “no” for an answer, and does her best to defy us silently. For example, if we are scolding her for something, she stands there, hands ion hips, sticks out her chin, and glares. And she’s pretty good at dragging us into an argument with her. Even when I set out consciously not to let it happen, she has a way of doing it. I have a pretty long fuse (most of the time, anyway) and can stay pretty calm (on the outside, anyway) through much, but she really yanks it out of me. My poor Mrs., who has virtually no patience with much and couldn’t hide her mood if she were paid to, has an even tougher time. We’ve taken away television and treats (and that is hitting her where she lives, believe me), having her stay in her room, and she’s even been spanked a few times. One thing that really concerns me is that she is modeling poor behavior for her younger sister, and, to a lesser extent I think, Chad. (Chad can get pretty upset, but he’s generally a happy-go-lucky fellow. And it doesn’t take much to punish him. A good glare and a stern voice will have him upset.) Veda already is saying “no!” and bargaining with us. That’s something that the other two never did at her age. Okay, enough of that. Please keep your prayers going up, please.

On another note entirely, it’s probably not very nice of me, but I’m pleased that Rosie O’Donnell’s new variety show tanked last week. The critics hated it and the ratings were so bad that it’s being talked about as one of the all-time big network bombs. Regardless of her political views, I just think she’s a mean bully. I think she is experiencing the same sort of backlash that Arthur Godfrey did in the 50s. At the time he was the biggest thing on television. He had this public persona as Mr. Nice Guy but behind the scenes was a mean-spirited ogre to those around him. The audience finally saw this when he summarily fired one of his cast on air (because the guy was going to strike out on his own). His ratings plummeted. Nobody wants to watch a mean person smiling away, singing and dancing, hosting a variety show. I guess now Rosie will have to go back to blogging for her sycophants.

Well, better get to work. I came in a little early today but all this gabbing is going to have me running behind (again). See you all at lunch, after my trip to the Goodwill.

Prayers for TOM, MAUDE, BOO, LUCY, and all the rest of you.

Me-They
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68339: I just sent a picture and greeting to ROMEENA that I hope she'll post in the album. I won't be joining the card list this year, but I wanted to send you all a special greeting. The picture is the one we are using on our cards this year.

M-T
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68340: I didn't hear about Rosie's awful show - I can't watch her in good faith because of her views on all views. I really liked her daytime show until she decided she must come out and then be mean and hateful to anyone who disagreed with her. So -

The house comes in on Friday - we won't get moved in before Christmas but we will get many things moved over before Christmas.

So sorry for my long absences - but I am running from both ends.

homemaker
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68341: Oh man, I feel for ya, Me-They. Nora sounds just like Erin, except Erin will embarrass me in public. She is the loudest "burper" in the state of Texas. You're right about Veda, she will imitate Nora's behavior if it works for Nora..but, as you are consistent, she will get the message. My husband was a third child of two unruly, strong-willed sibling and it didn't take him long to figure out that he didn't want to get into the trouble they got into with their dad (he was a barber with a razor strap). Bruce was punished very few times as a child. Hopefully, Veda will be like that, and wise up as she sees what works and what doesn't. I think Ro's advice was pretty good about separation from others. I have done that at times with Erin and she hates it. Last night, we were getting ready to sit down for dinner and Erin and Sean were already seated at the table before the rest of us. Well, Erin reached over onto Sean's plate and grabbed one of his roles and squashed it with her hand...then, Sean yelled and threw it at her (you see, constipated Chihuahuas are not my only problem). Bruce mad them get up from the table and gave them a good talking to about table manners and made them sit alone for awhile until they were able to sit at the table and mind their manners. It's always something!

By the way, are you going to the Goodwill to get MY christmas present?! (I know it's the thought that counts, but c'mon) :) Can't wait to see your Christmas picture, thanks.

Howdy Homemaker..."running from both ends"..does that mean what I think it means?

Boo
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68342: BOO: Oh, don't even get me started about Nora and Chad's squabbling! "She's looking at me mean!" "He touched me!" "He didn't do what you told hime to!" Oh, don't get me started!

Funny, My Mrs. had the exact same experiencve as Bruce. She has two older siblings who were always in trouble, even as teenagers (let's leave it at that!). She remembers that even as a young child she didn't want to get into trouble like that and didn't want to upset her parents the way they did. Maybe there's hope for Veda yet.

Sorry, my trip to the Goodwill was a delivery, not a pick up. But if you want, I can go back. What size undies again?

HOMEMAKER: Well, we'll schedule you housewarming for January. That way, we'll have something fun to look forward to after the holiday. That is, besides returning clothes that are too small and trying to convince the trahs man to take all the bags.

M-T
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68343: Hey HM,salty,Boo,Rev,Ro and all....nice cool day here in ga.better get outside and get busy...prayers....supper at Olive Garden..on Maude and I....SPOT
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68344: Hahaha! You folks are in fine form today. That's what I love about this porch. Everyone has problems and concerns, and feels free to share them, but at the same time, the laughter and the fun go right on. It's just great!

"She's looking at me mean!" "He touched me!" "He didn't do what you told him to!" OH, my goodness!
That could be my two grandsons, word for word, except for the "she". They fight, bicker, squabble, scuffle, and then they tattle. Who but a five-year-old would have the nerve to wade into a room full of adults deep in conversation, interrupt and announce to his father, "Landry called me a dodo head!" My son just stared at him, slowly and clearly said, "I - don't - care!" and kept staring at him. The poor little dodo head just wilted and slunk out of the room. As soon as he was safely outside, everybody just cracked up. Tattling has become a big issue, and the thing that seems to work best is to consistently refuse to take action against the one being tattled on. If the offense is great enough to warrant a response, it happens, but the tattler suffers too, because usually the punishment involves separate rooms for half an hour or so. Oh, it's a jungle out there!

I'm still receiving addresses, a couple every day, and as soon as I'm pretty sure I've got them all, I'll send them out. I know those cards have to be mailed soon.

I had hoped to get a bit done on my Christmas tree today, but I didn't even finish the stuff outdoors yet. My car has to go in the shop - the little lever that allows the steering wheel to tilt at different angles is broken, the wheel is tipped up high, and I feel like I'm driving a bus! Very annoying. So, it's going to the shop. It's under warranty, they'll give me a loaner and I'll get it back in a day or two. Gotta work tonight and tomorrow night, so will be scarce until that's over. Then I'll be back in full swing.

Be blessed, everyone. --Romeena
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68345: We try and do the same thing when the tattling occurs. We only act when the offense is dangerous or a particularly big transgression.

One thing that's kind of funny is that Chad has mastered the "art of the fall." If Nora so much as brushes up against him he falls down or backwood and claims injury from being hit. Between his pratfalls and Nora's Scarlett O'Hara imitation, my kids should be on Broadway.

We cut down our tree last Saturday and I'll bring it in tonight so the branches can drop. We'll decorate on Sunday. In fact, the picture I sent to you was taken at the tree farm, which is a whole 1/2 mile from our house.

Me-They
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68346: M-T, my kids argue/fuss much the time and pretty much always have. He is almost 18 and she will be 15 in May. She is a strong willed young lady, can be stubborn and has been the challenge of the 2 kids. She has been more frustrating at times in terms of attitude and behavior at home. We have never had any compliants from school, other parents and the folks at church think she is wonderful. She makes great grades and is a good kid. Sometimes I wonder if she leaves that kid at school and another one comes home. She is full of drama. I try to ignore as much as possible, set limits and have tried to instill the "choice/consequence" message to both kids. I tell them they are resonsbile for their behavior, not me, and they choose how they act. Then, I point out consequences for both the good and bad choices/behavior and they choose what they can deal with. Doesn't always work but mostly it has. Most kids know they are pushing buttons and want a reaction, good or bad. I found with my daugther if I put her in charge of her behavior and send her to another room to think about her choice and the consequences, she usually settles down. Hang in there.

Big Maude

December 03, 2008 - Msg 68347: I'm back, this time to ask for prayers. I just got a call from Eloise, telling me that her son-in-law, John, has been in an accident on his motorcycle. This is no wild man, John is a new car salesman for one of the Sewell dealerships, and rides the motorcycle for economy. He's very careful, no showing off or anything like that. He had been to lunch and was on his way back to work when a pickup (I think) just pulled out without warning and hit him. The other driver said he just simply didn't see him. That's the big danger with motorcycles, I guess. Anyway, he has a broken leg, probably both bones, some broken ribs, a mild concussion (yes, he was wearing a helmet) and apparently he bit a chunk out of his tongue. They are running tests now to determine if he has any internal injuries, but at least he's awake and talking. He's my daughter-in-law's sister's husband, and he's a very nice guy. I really hate that this has happened to him, but I'm glad it wasn't worse. Prayers for the family, as well as for John, please.

Blessings! --Romeena
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68348:
Boo- an earlier comment struck me funny about
bruce teaching poker to Sean. I thought, what's he gonna do next, teach him to drink and smoke?? haha
Prayers for Homemaker.
M-T- I got your drift also...man, take a shower or something! haha Just ribbing at ya.
I joined a club today, but what it is, I can't tell ya! ha
I watched keeper of the Flame last night.
Andy: You grin any bigger and yer teeth will fall out!
Good grub lately on this here porch.
Let's head to Culvers, my treat!
Prayers,
MDC
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68349:
Didn't see you there RO,
Yes, you bet prayers for that gentleman.
MDC
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68350: Prayers for John.
******************
possum under a rock
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68351: HAHAHA, undies from the Goodwill, what a gift!! I'm getting you used earplugs.

Interesting about your wife, Me-They. Maybe it will work for Veda..I'll bet it will. As I am typing this, Erin is in her room alone with no TV, in the bed. Grandma and I have told her more than once not to take Gizzy out on a chain to walk him. She deliberately disobeyed us both and then tried to hide the evidence (the chain). So, not only did she deliberately disobey the rules, but she tried to deceive Grandma. I took her straight to her room, explained why she was being punished and gave her a spanking. She is still denying that she tried to deceive us, but she is going to sit it out in her room.

Poor John, prayers for him and for Eloise.

OK, here is an update on the Erin situation. Bruce just got home and I was filling him in on the situation, when I heard what sounded like the TV going in Erin's room. I snuck to her door and opened it. Erin quickly turned it off with the remote! That stinker disobeyed again. Bruce is dealing with her now. What on earth is going on with that child?!

MAVIS, MIL gave some pumpkin to Gizzy today and he loved it..hope it works.

Boo
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68352: To answer your question, MDC, I doubt Bruce will teach Sean to drink...we're not Catholic...:) Just kidding, buddy.

Boo
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68353: Boo,maybe you should try singing "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" to Erin- remember this part?
" He sees you when you're sleeping
He knows when you're awake
He knows if you've been bad or good
So be good for goodness sake!"
Honestly,I don't know what to tell y'all about these little girls. I raised one,but it's been 20 years since she was the age Nora & Erin are. Good luck-y'all have my prayers!
***********
possum again
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68354: Barney : " Well,today's 8 year olds are tomorrow's
teenagers. I say this calls for action and now! First sign of youngsters going wrong you've got to
nip it in the bud!"

Andy: " I'm going to have a talk with them.What else do you want me to do? "

Barney: " Well,just don't mollycoddle them."

Andy: " I won't."

Barney: " Nip it! You go read any book on the subject of child discipline and you'll find everyone of them is in favor of bud-nipping."

(Just recalled this bit of advice!)
possum again
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68355: Boo, my son has another thing he does with his boys. When he finds them doing something he has told them not to do, he doesn't say anything, he just stands and stares at them, expressionless. They fidget, scuff their feet, look off in the distance, fidget some more, and usually will finally start to cry. Then he'll just say, "You do know I'm terribly disappointed in you, don't you?" Then he walks away. No closure, just leaves them dangling. Most of the time, they'll come to him in a little while and apologize. Not always, but usually. Then they talk about the situation, he accepts their promises to do better, gives them a hug and all is well.

As for Erin and the TV, I know what my Dale would have done. He would have said very little, but would have disconnected the TV and carried it out of the room, saying something about "since you can't be trusted...." And it would have stayed out for about three days.

My car is fixed, didn't have to come home in a loaner after all. The service consultant was able to fix the problem on the spot, goody goody. The loaners are always very nice cars, but I just like to have my own, with all my "stuff" in it.

Well, gotta get ready to go to work. Be blessed, all. --Romeena
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68356: Hello Family:
Sorry about my long spells of MIA. We have been so busy at home, work, kids and cooking. Ro- I will email you my address to add to the card list. Thanks. I need to go back to the archives and do a little reading. Love and Prayers to all ~New Neighbor
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68357: Good to hear from you NN!

Well, I don't want to bring anybody down but I have to ask you to please pray for Jubi. She is my little friend from church who is 11 and had cancer a few years ago. I had asked you to pray about a spot they found on her lung three months ago. They rechecked this week and it has grown a half-centimeter and they want to do surgery on Tuesday. Jubi's mom, Amy, is in a panic and was crying in church tonight, bless her heart. Please pray that it won't be cancer and pray for peace for Jubi and her parents. Also, our little church has been through alot lately and if it is cancer, it will be so hard for all of us. Thanks again, friends.

Boo
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68358: Hey gang...Miss Sherry just left headed to work at 10pm....got the crosses up and lit...got pics for Ro...Ok..let me get Otis put up..prayers porch..back in just a bit...hey Maude,possum(YOUTS)!...Rev....and all...SPOT
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68359:
Hello porch family....a lot going on today on the porch. Many prayer needs.

Ro....praying for John and his family. Praying for complete and speedy recovery even as I post this.

Boo....also praying for little Jubi and her family. That just breaks my heart. But I know God hears our cries and our hurts. I just pray now that this is not cancer and she will come out of this in complete health...in Jesus' Name...the Name that is about all sickness and all diseases...Amen

Spot....thanks for Olive Garden....one of my favorite places to eat.

M-T.....yep I agree about the Rosie deal. I think she is now seeing that she has shot her mouth off too many times.

I'll be leaving out tomorrow for Florida so I may not be back on the porch till Monday. I'll be praying for all of you. You folks are the BEST!
Remember.....Jesus loves evryone of us so much....please tell someone about His love!
-REV.
December 03, 2008 - Msg 68360: Whew! Just wanted to run in and sit in my rocker for a minute and catch up with everybody.It is cold here again,we go from the 30's to the 60's then back again.No wonder I keep a cold.Boo and Romeena, sending up prayers for your situations.Can't visit long,gotta hit the hay.Prayers for everyone-ky girl
December 04, 2008 - Msg 68361: Prayers for Jubi and her mom.I had hoped she was on the road to recovery,since we hadn't heard anything about her lately.Praying that she WILL recover and be a healthy child.
Safe travels,Rev.We'll look for you to be rocking on the Porch again soon!
Yep,Ro,taking the tv away from Erin is a good idea.I used to punish my daughter (this was before all kids had cell phones) by taking the phone out of her room.Usually I would just go get it and hide it when she wasn't home.She knew the reason I took it and knew better than to protest & ask to have it back. The only other phone was on the wall in the kitchen,and she didn't want to gossip with all of her friends out in the open like that,so her goose was pretty much cooked there for a while!
I reckon Spot will show up later with breakfast.Here are some Krispy Kremes to tide y'all over until he does-enjoy!
Have a good day-love to all!
*******************
possum under a rock
December 04, 2008 - Msg 68362: Good Morning to you all today. Cold and raining today here in Northeast Tn today. Hopefully it will not rain tomorrow for my day trip.

Romeena, if you still have my home home address, you can add it to the card list. Thanks!

Breakfast menu will be: scrambled eggs, toast, apple butter/jelly, crispy bacon, sausage links,
fruit, coffee, tea, assorted juices. and Possum's Krispy Kremes.

better get to work. Prayers and blessings to all

Big Maude

December 04, 2008 - Msg 68363: Morning, it is pretty cool here this morning...I just took Gizzy outside and almost froze (good thing he isn't constipated today).

I am a bit droopy. Woke up at 4am with a tummy ache, darn it. Got lots to do, though, today. I have to take Sean to get his labwork again.

I just thought of something fun we can do. We usually start the Christmas movie quotes by now. I was thinking maybe we could share some of our worst vs. best Christmas gifts over the years. We have done this before, of course, but let's do it again. Put you're thinking caps...

Boo
December 04, 2008 - Msg 68364: I don't remember getting any "bad" gifts from my parents as a child (we appreciated everything we got from them) but I remember being dissapointed at some of the school christmas party exchanges, when we drew names for a gift. Everyone hated to get the dreaded "Book Of Lifesavers" and I got a couple of those. One year, in the 5th grade, I think most of the girls got "Skinny Dip Perfume"...that was a big year. I loved the stuff when I was a kid. Anyone else remember it? I'll tell you about the best gifts later...

Boo
December 04, 2008 - Msg 68365: A quick good morning, friends. Just got home from work, am beat to the socks, and have to go back tonight.

Big Maude, I thought I did have your address, but don't find it. Would you mind sending it to me again?

Gotta run, I've got to get this aching body in the bed. Blessings, one and all. --Romeena
December 04, 2008 - Msg 68366: Good afternoon friends. I'm outfitted with white gloves and equiped with a ladder and am helping to decorate the museum today. If that sounds at all fun to any of you, I can assure you it is a pain in the...well, you know where. It's the one day every Christmas holiday I absolutely hate. But, it will be done later for the year (or at least until the take down). So, I wish you all prayers and good wishes for today. I'll be back tomorrow with some bad gifts, and, who knows, maybe a moulage.

Me-They
December 04, 2008 - Msg 68367:
Mt- whay dont u like putting up Christmas decorations? Just curious.
Maybe the fun girls could stop by and help.
"Hiya Doll, hey Bernie!"
RO- do you have pappa bear's address? he would
like to be on the list. I can email it to you if need be.
He says hi to all. Get the brown truck over to
RO's dealer for a tune up, and skis! ha
Prayers,
MDC
Andy: How's every little thing in the county nursing game?
December 04, 2008 - Msg 68368: Howdy, all. Just passing by on the way to work. Got a good day's sleep, thanks to a spoonful of mustard when the leg cramps hit.

Update on John - both bones in his leg are broken, his pelvis is broken, hip joint is chipped, nose is broken, he has a mild concussion, broken ribs and punctured lung. He should have had surgery yesterday for the lung and broken bones, but he's at Parkland (county hospital, world-class trauma unit) and the hospital of choice when the EMTs pick you up. However, it's like going to the best restaurant in town. It's not worth much if it's too crowded to get in. He has been there over 24 hours now, and all they can tell him is that they have to bump him off the OR list for life-threatening trauma cases - gunshots, stabbings and the like. Makes me sick. As a nurse, I understand the principle of triage, but this is getting ridiculous. He's lying there in severe pain, with a partially collapsed lung and several fractures and they can't get him into surgery?? His wife (Eloise's daughter) is in shock and trying to be patient, but Eloise is furious and about to start raising a ruckus. By now, I would have instructed the nursing staff to call an ambulance and start preparing transfer papers to move him to another facility. This is not acceptable.

Yes, MDC, I have Pappa Bear's address, and will definitely include him in the list. So far, I have addresses/permission from the following folks:

Pappa Bear, Possum, Mavis, Spot, REV, Ky Girl, Mayberry Deputy, Hazel, Salty Dog, Tom, Homemaker, New Neighbor and Lucy Matthews.

If I've missed anyone, please speak up, but these are the ones I've received so far. If you've sent me an email that I missed, let me know. If you haven't sent one, and want to be on the list, please send. I'll probably get the list together this weekend sometime, and get it emailed out.

Just had a call from Eloise, they took John to surgery just a few minutes ago. Please pray.

And now, I'm off to work. Be blessed, everyone. --Romeena

December 04, 2008 - Msg 68369: Maude thanks for covering breakfast...I will be on time..Boo my friend I hope you feel better..Miss Sherry and I have been shopping...joy-joy...hey Rev,auh20,Tom,Romeena dont work to hard...hey Luch,hazel,M-T,MDC and CHUCK!...well its the ironing board for me...work at 6am till 10 pm tomorrow so I will be checking in all day...then night shift on the weekends this month...well night and prayers...SPOT
December 04, 2008 - Msg 68370: Prayers for John, poor thing! I can't believe that situation at Parkland. That's just terrible.

I took Sean for his labs in town and they did one of those blood sugars where you have to drink the sweet stuff. We spent the rest of the day shopping and when I was nearly home, got a call from one of best friends that her son, Jordan, who is 13 was on his way to the hospital because his head started hurting, then he lost part of his vision, next came the speech and he couldn't walk without stumbling. Of course she was terrified and thought he had a brain tumor or something. Bruce and I rushed up to the ER to be with them and by the time we got there, he was talking and walking and just had a headache. They are thinking it was all some sort of migraine. They took him for a CAT scan tonight but I won't know anything until tomorrow. I was so relieved when I got there to see him doing better.

So, I am beat and heading to bed now at 10pm. See ya in the morning with my morning coffee.

Boo
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68371: Well, looks like I'm the first one up...is everyone hiding from the cold weather?

I think I will be getting ERin to school and then heading back to bed. I've been up since 4 with stomach cramps. ALSO (and this for Mavis), the pumpkin seems to have over-worked Gizzy and at 4am I had a Chihuahua with overactive bowels. I think MIL is trying to give it to him everyday and that's too much.

Hope John came through the surgery alright.

Where are those Christmas gift memories??? I remember someone sharing that they got an ashtray for Christmas once and they didn't even smoke AND it was one of those plaid bean bag and aluminum ones. Speaking of aluminum...how many of you had those aluminum trees when you were a kid? We never did and I didn't like them then, but I would sure like to get my hands on one now, just for the sake of nostalgia.

One simple gift I remember getting that I really liked, though, was when I was 14 and my mom gave me this little glass bird from AVON and it was filled with a creme perfume called "Patchwork". To me it smelled wonderful and I treasured it. You can't get Patchwork anymore.

Better run..

Boo
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68372: Good morning Porch, Boo would you pass a cup of coffee please, hard to get myself going here this morning, it's been a looong week. I am so glad it's Friday, gotta work tomorrow, but it's fun, long awaited work, we are starting on the dog's kennels out at the new house this weekend & hopefully will be get some of the furniture moved as well, FINALLY! Anybody wants to help, just come on over.
Me-They did you get those decorations up?
I'll check back in later, have a wonderful day!
*Mavis
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68373: Dadgum it, that shows you how tired I am, how is John doing this morning, Romeena?
*Mavis
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68374: Oh, Boo, I'm sorry for you & poor little Gizzy tell MIL to only give it to him when he is having problems, not everyday. Bless his heart, now, ironically, pumpkin does work both ways, if they are constipated, it helps & also if they have diarrhea, it will help with that too, just don't give him alot, a teaspoon in the am & then no more until he has a problem again. Also, be careful about giving him table scraps, some things we eat just don't go over well with their little bodies.
*Mavis
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68375: Good morning, all. Just home from work, going to sleep until about noon, then get up and enjoy the rest of the day. I don't go back to work until next Wednesday night, unless you count the all-day class on Monday for recertification in neonatal resuscitation. We have to recertify every two years. It's kind of annoying, but I do get paid for the time, and the person who conducts the class does her best to make it interesting. Plus, it's in the daytime, so don't have to stay awake all night.

It's COLD here. A bird just landed on the birdbath and skidded clear across on a sheet of ice! My thermometer says 31 degrees. Guess I'd better go break the ice for them, poor things.

John finally actually got into surgery about 7:30 last night, went from there to ICU on a ventilator, because of the broken ribs and collapsed lung. Oh, and they also found that in addition to one leg having both bones broken, the other kneecap is shattered, so he's going to be off his feet for some time, I guess.

Boo, I hope Jordan is doing well today. The description of his symptoms made me wonder about a stroke. Very unusual in one so young, but it does happen. I once worked with a nurse whose little daughter had a stroke at 18 months of age, which left her with permanent paralysis on one side. Will continue to pray for Jordan and his family.

Well, I'm off to bed for a while, after feeding this hungry little puppy who keeps nudging my ankle. Be blessed, everyone. --Romeena
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68376: Mornin' Y'all. Sure hope John made it through surgery ok and is on the road to recovery. Let us know when you hear any news,Ro.
Boo,hope your friend's son only suffered a migraine. That sounds scary-sure praying it was nothing else to it.
Miss Laci spent last night at my rock and I guess she got 8 hours of sleep,but this is how it went last night- Asleep @ 11pm,up at 4:30am,asleep again @ 6:30,awake at 8:30. And no,she didn't have overactive bowels like Gizzy! (I still laugh about Gizzy!) She sometimes sleeps very good,but other nights are a wild ride!So,I'm not up to cooking breakfast for the Porch- how about we head to the Waffle House later.We'll put it on Rev's tab this time!
Have a good day-love to all!
*******************
possum under a rock
P.S. Boo,maybe you should try some of that canned pumpkin?! Just kidding-hope you feel better!
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68377: Oh, Thanks for the update on John,Ro. Continued prayers.
Hey to Mavis!
possum again
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68378: Good morning everyone. It’s a really beautiful early winter day here. Sunny blue sky, crisp but not too cold.

All this talk of loose bowels right after breakfast! Makes me think of a funny story, though. A number of years ago, when they first came out, my mom bought some of those orange falvored prunes. I forget why now, but she had a bunch of them in a ziploc bag. Anyway, my dad came across them, loved them, and ended up eating the whole bag not thinking that even though they were orange flavored they still were what they were! Let's just say he steers clear of dried fruit these days.

ROMEENA: Prayers for John. I’m glad they finally called his number. Keep us posted.

MAVIS: Yep, all done.

MDC: I don’t dislike decorating, and I really enjoy doing up the tree with family. Here at work it’s a whole different ballgame, even from lots of other workplaces. I was helping to decorate the museum. There are so many restrictions, so many obstacles to affixing things to walls, not to mention that the curator must be present anytime any object is moved, be it furniture or rug. And the stupid gloves never fit my hands. Plus, as one of the only guys here I am usually elected to be the “ladder” guy and to cart all the stuff down from storage. I figure that yesterday I did—and this is a conservative estimate—over 2,000 stairs. I like to deck the halls as much as the next guy, and I don’t mind putting muscle into my work, but not particularly at the same time.

BOO: Prayers for Jordan, and your church family.

About your Christmas musings...As a kid, we usually put up an artificial tree. We had that tree from the time I could remember until I was in high school. My dad usually put it together (it was the kind with the color coded branch tips, you know, the ones that after a few years you’re trying to guess what color it used to be). Thinking back it was pretty small and spindly, but I tell you if I had that tree today I know I would put it up. My parents always put it up in a corner. When I was younger it was my job (actually, I made it my job) to crawl under the tree, come up in the space between the tree and the corner, and decorate the back of the tree. I’m the only one who probably ever saw it, but I took great care with the back of that tree. It was kind of like my special Christmas place or something. When I was in Kindergarten I got one of those plastic toothpicks with stuff on the top that they stick in cupcakes. It was a snowman. I brought it home from school and stuck it on the back of that tree every year that I could remember. It finally got lost sometime after I moved out of the house.

I never got any real stinkers for gifts, but I vividly recall a dream I had when I was in middle school. It was near Christmas, probably just a few days before, and I dreamt that I woke up Christmas morning, went down to see my presents, and all I got was a bunch of wooden puzzles. Not even the 500 or 1,000 piece kind, but real simple little kid ones. I was probably about 13 at the time. Anyway, my brother got all these great gifts. My parents were obviously thrilled with my giving me my gifts, and in the dream I was trying my best to act thankful and gracious even though I was so disappointed. You can bet I was a little anxious that Christmas!

Oh, things went pretty far downhill on the daughter front yesterday. My poor Mrs. is quite frazzled. It’s been a week! We’ll see how it goes over the weekend.

Well, I’ll be back later.

Me-They
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68379: BOO: I loved getting those Life Saver books! I usually got one every year from my grandparents.

M-T
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68380: Hi All.
Rain all day thursday and now it snowing.
Boo , Ro prayer for your friend.
My S I L is making tha family go crazy ?
Have so my grandmother and mom pass the houe is in no one name, but the was going to be mom but there is five of us and just one who wnt the house and we all side we will sig off on it , but she keep it up b---h about it .

TOM

December 05, 2008 - Msg 68381: Hey there TOM. We all have relatives who make life agravating...I mean interesting. Sorry to hear about your troubles. You can keep your snow, though.

BOO: Hope your cramps are better.

M-T
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68382: M T no I will send it to you.

TOM
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68383: test

December 05, 2008 - Msg 68384:
There's gonna be a test?
MDC
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68385: Don't worry, MDC, all you need to know is Kelsey's Woods, and Kelsey's Ocean.

Snowball coming your way, TOM.

M-T
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68386: For any fans of "The Jeffersons"- I just saw where Paul Benedict,Who played neighbor Mr. Bentley,has passed away at age 70.

possum
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68387:
"Merry Christmas you wonderful old Building and Loan!!"
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68388: Life saver books were so cool....hey Romeena,Rev,possum,my friend Boo...kennel moving Mavis..Tom..Maude...Asa...well been busy here at work...got a little break....supper will be as follows: Pot Roast and carrots,red taters,onions,greenbeans,maude slaw...and cornbread...get a laddle full out of the crock pot and croumble the cornbread up in it and ummm...sweet tea...ok...prayers see you at supper...SPOT
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68389: Good afternoon, friends. I got a good nap, and am now up and rarin' to go! Got to make a run to the bank, then go pick up Eloise around six and we'll go play bunco. It's the first Friday of the month, that's when we meet. We wanted a Tuesday night, but the Mayberry Knot-tying Society meets on that night.

John is still in ICU, though he's off the vemtilator and breathing on his own. They have now found that he has blood clots in his lungs - not surprising after broken ribs and punctured lung. I would imagine his lungs were bruised and clots can be the result. So, he's on Heparin, among other things. The orthopedic surgeon told him he will not be able to bear any weight at all on the broken leg for FOUR months! As for the shattered kneecap on the other leg, they're still debating what to do about it. Seems he can opt out of surgery - I don't understand that, but that's what he was told. Hmmm.

About those aluminum Christmas trees - you can find them on eBay, I think. Last time I looked, they had some, and you would NOT believe how expensive they are! I wish I had bought a bunch of them and stockpiled them, back when you could get one for about $10.

Me-They, I always decorate the back of my tree about as carefully as I do the front, too. However, I leave the whole thing out in the middle of the room where I can easily walk around it, place ladders or stepstools, whatever is necessary. Once it's finished, I slide it back into its corner. It stands on a piece of plywood which is enclosed in a heavy-duty plastic bag. That slides easily on the carpet, and I just drag it into the corner. The hard part is wriggling out from back there, and it's getting harder every year! Once it's in place, though, and I get out, I can tweak it into perfect placement from the front. Sure does make it easier. For those with tile or wooden floors, I would think that a sheet of heavy cardboard beneath the plywood would work. It should slide fairly well.

Well, off I go. Be blessed, friends. --Romeena
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68390:
Clarence: Strange, isn't it? Each man's life touches so many other lives. When he isn't around he leaves an awful hole, doesn't he?

I love "It's a Wonderful Life"

auh2o
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68391:
Hey all, I'm at the ASU library tonight, so I thought I'd pop in.
Me too AUH20, as sappy as some thing it is,
to me that line of Clarence's is so "spiritual" because that is what jesus basically said when he said "Whatever you do to the least of my brethern..." Plus i love Jimmy Stewart! ha
I think I mentioned last year that back in the 60s I wanted one of those "invisible man" models, but my mom thought it was too risque! ha
Anyone recall "Teak" cologne (ala barney 'ode colone, ha) I courted a few gals in college wearing that stuff!
Prayers for all.
Possum, how goes things your way these days?
I forgot to comment your "Catholic" joke.
I guess i am the teetottler of the group! ha
God bless!
MDC
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68392:
Oops, that was BOO's joke! mdc
December 05, 2008 - Msg 68393: Shoot, I was hoping you were gonna blame it on Possum, MDC...I don't remember Teak cologne but I remember Hai Karate (sp?)...phewy...and who could forget Brut?

Ro, Jordan's symptoms made me think of a stroke, too, but I have not heard anything today. I tried calling his mom today and didn't get an answer. If there was a problem, they would have let me know. I did find out that Jubi is scheduled for surgery on Dec 9th at 9am. If it's cancer, they will put in a medi-port at that time and I guess chemo will be the course of treatment (again). She is a very tough little girl and is handling it all well. Her mother, Amy seems to be doing much better, too, and is trusting the Lord. Thank you for your prayers for them. Jubi's dad is supposed to be boarding a plane from Germany tomorrow and we are praying for a safe trip without delays.

I love It's a Wonderful Life, too, Auh2o, but I think A Christmas Carol is still my favorite. My favorite line is when Jacob Marley cries, "Mankind was my business!".

Ro, I saw some old Skinny Dip perfume from the early 70's on ebay and they wanted 40.00 for the stuff! I would love to smell it again, but not at that price. Same with the aluminum trees..it would be nice, but not at that price.

The cramps are better, Me-They, thanks. They aren't gone but much better. I hope I can sleep tonight. I am thinking of taking one of Bruce's leftover pain pills before bed, but I am afraid it will make me sick.

Been a busy day but this evening I chilled-out and watched a Christmas movie on Lifetime. Guess I will get Erin off to bed and go to sleep!

Boo
December 06, 2008 - Msg 68394: I remember the aluminum christmas trees,we had one, but, I don't remember the skinny dip perfume.I remember Bing Crosby christmas specials,or was it Bob Hope?Boo, I remember Sweet Honesty perfume,from Avon.Remember spray shampoo in a can for when you didn't have time to wash your hair? All it was was some baby powder in a can you sprayed on your hair,your hair didn't actually get clean,but, it did have a little more body for awhile.I'm too tired to think of a christmas memory tonight,I'll think on it an post tomorrow.Spot,dinner sounded great.Sorry I missed it.Prayers for all-ky girl
December 06, 2008 - Msg 68395: Hey KYGirl, how is KY Kid? We haven't heard from her in awhile. I remember that spray shampoo in a can..don't know if I ever used it, though. Do you remember Dippity-Doo? It was that cool-smelling hair setting gel that came in a jar and was either green or pink...mom always had a jar of that stuff around back in the days when women wore curlers and had real "do's". She kept it on the window sill to keep me out of it (it never worked). I would climb up on the toilet seat and get it. I loved to smell it and poke my fingers in the gel. Another one of my favorite things was Silly Putty. I liked to press it on the funnies and make imprints of the characters. Anyone else ever do that? I also liked to play with Slinkys and let them go down our stairs. Do any of you girls remember Little Kiddles or Flatsy dolls? How about Dawn dolls? Those were some of favorites, along with Give-A-Show projector, Hoppity Hop, and Barbies. We were talking about favorite gifts and I remembered that when I was in the 4th grade, my oldest brother, Jerry, came to visit from Spain with his wife and new baby son, Paul. His wife was a beautiful Brittish woman named Shirley and it was our first time to meet them since they lived in Europe at the time. She brought my sister and I each a beatiful Spanish doll. I thought it was great and even took it to school for show-n-tell. I still have that thing tucked away in storage somewhere. It's pretty ugly now, though. That was a good Christmas with family. The year before that, we had my other brother, Dave, home for Christmas from California. He had just recovered from surgery for a brain tumor and was doing well, so that was a very special Christmas, too. I can remember the feeling of just looking at him with his shaved head and feeling so happy that he was with us.

Better get going...finished the coffee after sleeping late. I did take a pain pill last night and slept great! I feel like I am ready to take on the world now.

Boy, Mavis sent me a great email this morning containing a couple of chihuahuas. If you aren't on her email list, you missed out! :)

Boo
December 06, 2008 - Msg 68396: Good morning, everyone! I got a great night's sleep too, and am energized today. Good thing, because there is much to do. My Christmas tree is still standing in the middle of the living room, wearing its bedsheet shroud. I always dread the initial unwrapping and testing the lights, because invariably a string or two just refuses to work. This year though, my fear level is lower, because I have my trusty Lightkeeper PRO! Also have to assemble the little Nativity display I bought and get it out in the front yard, and have to go to Big Lots and get more twinkles - I ran out and still have none around the deer out back. It won't take but about a half hour to put the twinkles out, and another half hour for the Nativity, so I should be able to tackle the tree right after lunch. Maybe I'll finish by Tuesday!

Good word on John! He has been moved from the surgical ICU to a step-down care room, so apparently is doing better. The church has mobilized, and is taking care of them. Prayer first of all, and their SS department is putting together a gift basket, containing gasoline gift cards, and gift cards from various restaurants and fast food places for his wife and children to use. They're surrounded by love and prayer, so they'll be fine.

I remember that dry shampoo - wasn't it called Pssst! or something cutesy like that? And Dippity-Do - any female with a piled-up hairdo had a large jar of that stuff. I'll bet it would work fine on today's spiky styles.

As I've said before, my favorite Christmas gift was my horse, when I was thirteen. However, before that happy day, when I was eight I received my first bicycle. Times were hard, and my bike was not new. It was an old one that my dad had bought and lovingly painted and fixed up, and I was as proud as a peac0ck with two tails when I got that bike. I knew it wasn't new, but I also knew that my dad had done his best, and that was enough.

Well, gotta get moving. That tree isn't going to decorate itself. Be blessed, my friends! --Romeena