February 21, 2009 - Msg 70529: Thanks for the comment KY girl. By the way, my wife and I was in Louisville Sunday.

Thomas A.
February 21, 2009 - Msg 70530:
No charge for the sweep.

Thomas A. Moody Janitorial Services, INC.
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70531: How sweet, Chuck! Thank you for sharing that with us. I am glad you have a devoted and loving wife to share your life with...you sound like quite a husband, too.

Hey KYG, yep, they don't get much "purdy-er" thank Clark. What a charmer. Did you ever see him in "It Happened One Night"? Talk about charming and gorgeous....! Seems to me that the modern day actors just don't have the same appeal as the stars of yester-year. I just loved guys like Jimmy Stewart, and Cary Grant. They were s#xy in a respectable, and decent way...not like the actors in movies today who seem to have no decency for the most part. What men these days don't realize is that what most women find really attractive are men like Chuck...Godly, sweet, faithful men who love their families (and we have many of those on the porch).

Think I will "HEAD ON" to bed (remember that one...I thought it would become the next Vicks)..

Boo
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70532: Good evening, all. Boo, you are so right. As it happens, my Dale was a very handsome man, wavy black hair, beautiful eyes, a powerful build and all that, and of course that's what initially attracted me. However, the thing that held my interest was who he was, not his appearance. I've always said I fell in love with him at first sight, and then getting to know him gave that love definition. As I got to know him better (and that was easy, because he was very open and honest), loving him because easier every day. Finally, I was so smitten that he could have looked like a warthog and I wouldn't have cared. Thomas A. Moody, I was already a Christian when we met, and he became one before we married, so Jesus Christ was the binding third party in our marriage from the start. That makes all the difference in the world.

Well, I'm pooped. I left here at 10:30 this morning, picked up Eloise and went out to Keller to our grandson's basketball game. Afterward, we went with my DIL and the two little boys to Cheddar's for lunch (my son is out of town), then to DIL's house to pick up church clothes for Landry, who was going to spend the night with Eloise. Of course, we stayed there for a while, finally got back to Eloise's at 5, and I stayed there until 6, when we went to the high school and met a group of friends from church and attended a production of "Guys and Dolls" presented by the school drama department. Very well done. I finally dragged into the house about 10:30, to be ignored by a highly chapped Toye Starr, who had been alone for the whole day and was not happy about it. Poor baby, now I'll leave her again in the morning. I still think that well-mannered furkids should be allowed to attend church. It's discrimination, that's what it is!

Be blessed, friends. --Romeena
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70533: Ok gang im back at work to keep the Church lights on,will scan the TV for a good sermon here...hey Thomas,Boo,ky,Tom,Possum,Romeena ...where is Maude?...Asa?..hazel?...b-fast...sausage and bisquits (both hot and mild),scrambled eggs,oj,coffee....prayers...will check back after I get the comp. started here at the good old power company...SPOT
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70534: Boy ya can tell its Sunday..which is good on the porch..everyone at Worship!..Hope I did my part by keeping the heat and lights on!..had some good preaching on the comp radio..my co-worker found a good station somewhere in Tenn..so we listened to it...well let me get us some lunch...ham and cheese sandwiches,chips,olives....Kool-aid...your flavor....prayers...SPOT
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70535: Hello Folks;

We could not attend worship service today, so as an alternative, we are listening to Rev's CD's. All that is missing is the sermon. But being a musician myself, I prefer music worship.

Romeena, I hear ya about leaving pets at home. When I was younger, our church allowed us to bring our pets one day a year for a blessing. But it was worse for me when I was away in the military and away for up to 11 months a year.

Today I had a thought about the joke Andy played on Barney involving a nickel. I can't recall the details nor the particular episode. Can anyone please help?

from Poor Horatio
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70536:
Poor Horatio, Andy had Barney thinking the buffalo his nickel was facing the opposite direction that buffalo on Barney's nickel was facing.

I think the episode was Mayberry on Record, but I'm not 100%.

Thomas A.Moody
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70537:
SHAKEDOWN!
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70538: You are right, Thomas A. Moody. It was in the ep you named, where the man comes to Mayberry and records the local talent, then produces the record, and the performers all have a share in the proceeds.

It's so beautiful outside today. The birdbath was frozen over when I got up this morning, but it's 50 degrees out there now, sunny and clear, no wind. Just lovely. Birds everywhere! A big old grackle just landed in the fishpond and was splashing around. I was about to head out there to net him out, when he found a foothold on something and managed to get out. Goofy bird. About twice a year, I find a drowned bird in the pond. If I'm here, I usually see them and help them out, but when I'm not here - well - it makes me sad, but for the life of me, I don't know why they get in there. There are full birdbaths all over the yard, and the fountain rock at one end of the pond is accessible to them. There's just no reason for them to end up in the main body of water. It sort of gives new meaning to the term "birdbrain".

Sitting here by this window is a bit like being in a treehouse. I just love it - I can see about 90-95% of the entire yard. Just can't quite see the corners nearest the house, but the rest is a living stage. All three squirrel nest boxes are visible, and fortunately, their little "performance stage" is just about fifteen feet out from my window, at the base of a sycamore tree. That's where the little males come to show off for the girls, and it's hilarious. All the foot-stamping, tail whirling, hop-and-flip gymnastics they do - just so cute. They all go to that same area, every year. I never knew before that squirrels do that, but the ones around here definitely do. I have gotten some wonderful photos.

Well, I guess I'll go cuddle the Starr. She has seated herself on the floor behind me, and occasionally emits a tiny bark, which means "C'mon, mom, it's nap time." She's waiting for me to provide the lap in which that nap will be taken. I think if I'm not careful, I'm going to spoil that little girl. Be blessed, all. --Romeena
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70539: I agree Boo, I liked Cary Grant and Jimmy Stewart.And, "It Happened one Night" is one of my favorites.IThat is one of the reasons I liked "The Horse Whisperer" .It had the underlying story between Robert Redford and the leading female character,who is a really good actress I just can't think of her name right now.Anyway,I thought the storyline was romantic without being indecent.Romeena, I bet little Starr was a little put out with you for being gone all day!We have a new puppy at our house,he is 8 weeks old.My son named him Johnny Nickle, I don't know why, but he likes that name.He is a mix of a little bit of everything,but, is cute as a button. The other dog that we have, the one who has become so attached to my mom, she is not real happy having this puppy around.It's going to take a little time for her to share the attention, talk to you all later-ky girl
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70540: Ok gang its RACE TIME....hey Ro,ky girl...headed home at 6...wings and pizza...yall come ove and watch the race...im off work tomorrow....barn day...prayers...SPOT
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70541: Romeena, your yard sounds beautiful-ky girl
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70542: Be there in a bit spot, want me to bring some cold drinks,Mt.Dew,pepsie, sprite?-ky girl
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70543: Hello Folks

Thank you Thomas A. Moody for clearing up my memory. And thanks to Romeena for the confirmation.
Now I remember it. The secret to the trick was that Andy and Barney were facing each other thereby putting Andy's right side on Barney's left side. So when Andy pointed to his right, he was pointing to Barney's left.

Have you folks heard about the person who has failed the driving test 775 times even though the passing grade is only 60%? Click on http://uk.news.yahoo.com/22/20090221/tod-oukoe-uk-korea-driver-116e0fe.html.

from Poor Horatio
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70544: Can anyone remember any other tricks performed on TAGS?
I know there was one whole episode where Goober was tricked into thinking a dog could talk. But what about other tricks?

from Poor Horatio
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70545: Poor Horatio how about the ep where Andy & Barney spent the whole time teasing Ben Weaver with letting Bert set up a little stand to sell his goods? I always thought that one was funny.
*Mavis
spread a little sunshine every day~~Ain't that purdy? the look on old Ben's face when Andy would say that cracks me up.
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70546: Sorry I haven't been able to rock for a while, since we've gotten this new foster Bull Terrier in, it's been even crazier than normal here. This poor girl is needing more attention than normal because she is under so much stress. Stability and structure are what dogs like her need, the same thing everyday at the same time, day in & day out. It's been a challenge for me to re-work my schedule to get everything accomplished.
Now for an update on the crazy lady. First off, we aren't in there yet, we have a man there pulling up carpet & laying tile right now, so it's easier for him to do without us & all our furniture in there. Anyway, I went out there on Wed & found another note from her. I'll type it out here & ya'll can tell me your take on it:
Dear XXXX Chinquapin,
I have tried to leave cards, notes & notice to the neighbors seeking your response that I & my children grandchildren can come & visit the grave site off & set(?) to this property that was ours since 1974 with no response-If necessary I will remove my husbands remains to be able to visit if you would please just call 423-XXX-XXXX Patrice S. ps we love him and want to be able to visit and would not ever be a problem as X & X can vouch for. (I'm not sure exactly what it says where I put ?)
Now, we haven't called her yet because we were trying to wait until we were there full time in case she decided to retaliate in some way. I did talk to both the neighbors & they told me she comes up there alot and that she has been asking them for our phone number. They didn't feel comfortable giving it to her, so they didn't. One neighbor thinks she will retaliate, one isn't sure, but says she idolizes the house and the property. They both tell me she & her son are up there alot, so apparently it doesn't matter to her whether we approve or not, she's still coming and going as she pleases! I also noticed the amount of time she "lived there" has changed, the first note was 27 years, now it's 35 years. I don't like the tone of this note, almost like she blames us for buying "her" house.
What do ya'll think?
I talked to both neighbors and I've already had a call from both of them about her son being there since Wed. We did talk to the sheriff's department and they said they would be there at a set time to have her remove him so there won't be any problems.
Mr. Neff & I strung a chain across the entrance to the driveway with a No Trespassing sign on it, so if she comes back, she will have to walk about 1/4 mile up to the house. I'll let you know what happens next. Mr Neff is going to call her tonight.
*Mavis
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70547: Good heavens, PH. 775 times? My first thought was that maybe she can't read well enough to pass the written test, but the quotes attributed to her on the link indicate that she's pretty articulate, so I doubt that's the problem. I know some people freeze up on tests, even though they know the material, but 775 times??

ky girl, give your "old" dog time - she may come around. My daughter has an elderly mixed breed female named Snickers, who is the sweetest, most precious little old dog you ever saw. She has been "auntie" to several small dogs introduced into the family, but a few years ago, my daughter got a golden retriever pup. She was about Snickers' size when she arrived, at ten weeks of age. She grew at an alarming rate, of course, and is now about 80 pound. As a puppy, she was wild and rowdy, all feet and slobber, and with no potty manners whatsoever. Anywhere would do. This just disgusted fastidious little Snickers to no end, so she took it upon herself to train this upstart. And she did! She didn't just housebreak her, she calmed her down and taught her how to behave with company and small children. Poor little Snickers is now arthritic, nearly deaf and nearly blind, but she still rules the household with an iron paw. Everyone respects her, and I don't believe she has so much as shown her teeth to anyone or anything in her life. My daughter calls her "my little taxidermy dog" because she's looking pretty dilapidated, but she provides every possible comfort for her, and the whole family loves our little "grande dame". When she goes, I will grieve for her. We all will.

I just saw the football vs piano lessons episode. At the very end, when Opie is up at 6 a.m. practicing, and a sleepy Andy comes down the stairs to protest, I couldn't help laughing. Is it just me, or does everyone find such scenes amusing? Here's Andy, who had been sleeping in pajamas, and he puts on a robe before coming downstairs. I will guarantee you, and I hope this isn't too much information for someone, but I promise, my Dale would have been stomping down those stairs in his drawers, no question about it! Would any other wives care to comment? How about you fellows? PJs and robe, or drawers at a time like that? (heeheehee)

Be blessed, all. --Romeena
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70548: Hey there, Mavis! You slipped in while I was talking to my SIL on the phone. Wow. Sounds like you're dealing with a real nut. If Mr. Neff talks to her tonight, and lets her know that she is not welcome to "visit" her husband's remains, then that should be the end of it. If not, you have grounds for a restraining order, especially since you have put up a "No Trespassing" sign. If you make an appointment with her to remove the remains, I would have a constable there at the time. He probably wouldn't have to do or say anything, but as Andy said, there are some folks who benefit from resting their eyes on a sheriff's badge now and then. Please keep us posted.

Bless you for taking in the little bullie girl, and for having the patience to work with her. I'll bet you can turn her into a good companion for someone who needs her, and they'll both live happily ever after. --Romeena
February 22, 2009 - Msg 70549:
Well hello porch family.....I just walked in from my weekend road trip and I'm ready to lay back and get some rest. Hope you all had a great weekend.

Chuck....man that was such a special gift to your wife. God is so good! I know she was really blessed.

P-H....when you play my cds be sure to keep me in the warm.....I don't want to get my larynix cold...hehe

Well Spot you did a good job today. Every church that I was in kept the lights and my sound system on. You're alright!

Well folks I'm heading off to bed. Everyone sleep good and I'm praying for you all.
-REV.
February 23, 2009 - Msg 70550:
Thanks Rev for the kind words, and you too Boo for what you said about being se*y. That one made me chuckle. I always thought it was pot bellies that ladies found appealing.

Thomas A. Moody
February 23, 2009 - Msg 70551: Good morning everyone. I haven't had the chance to read yet today (since Friday), but I wanted to stop by to let you all know that Zach lost his battle and went home to the Lord yesterday evening. He was 16. Thank you all for your prayers. It means a lot.

Me-They
February 23, 2009 - Msg 70552:
KY Girl, you can see the view from Ro's window
to her backyard if you go to:
http://www.romeena.myphotoalbum.com
Tho i forget which album it is in.
RO, how do we find that view?
MDC
February 23, 2009 - Msg 70553: Prayers for Zach's family. Bless that boy's soul.
We were praying for a different outcome,but God had other plans.Me-They,I'm sorry.You take care,my friend.
Love to all.
*******************
possum under a rock
February 23, 2009 - Msg 70554:
ME-They- so sorry, i did not see your last post.
My prayers for you and the family and the whole school. The Lord works in mysterious ways, and
maybe many there will come to the Lord because
of his influence. My condolences.
Boo- i will be praying for a good rehab tonight.
Steve
February 23, 2009 - Msg 70555:
that was me MDC
February 23, 2009 - Msg 70556:
PH- there was the time opie put the egg in a bottle, and also in that ep he used his "disappearing ink" to trick Brisco Darling.
Some "tricks' that Andy did on Barney at the beginning of eps often get cut out on TV, like
when he puts the blanket under the bed posts,
or takes his shoes, or the trick with the
lipstick etc.
Barney tried some trick slingshot shootin' in
"Opie Birdman".
Hope that helps.
MDC
February 23, 2009 - Msg 70557: So very sorry, Me-They. My prayers go out to Zach's family and community.

Thank you, MDC. I appreciate those prayers very much. I am tired today so I need them. I had a tough night and ended up spending all night at the psych ward with a suicidal friend. He had overmedicated himself and was telling me that he was going to really do it this time, so I went to his house and was able to talk him into letting me take him to the hospital. I pray they are able to help him and they have him in a lock-down unit right now so he cannot check himself out. He has such major, major issues that it is hard to be optimistic about his outcome but I had to try.

Well, I am finally having my first cup of coffee at 1:30pm. I was able to take a nap so I am feeling ok.

Thomas A: Right, I just love pot bellies and bald heads and my hubby has both...

Boo
February 23, 2009 - Msg 70558:
Ro- my 2 cents on your robe question is this: I think it is more of a "TV" thing than it is a "reality" thing, especially with men, tho i can't speak for all. Most "TV" families wear robes
over their PJs, at least in 60s and 70s shows.
my wife sometimes wears on over PJs on a cold Sat. morning, but I havent worn one since my boarding school days.
MDC
February 23, 2009 - Msg 70559:
Me-They Prayers for his family. Like you said, he went home to the Lord. For some reason I felt a real connection praying for Zach. You're post came as a bit of a shock. Funny thing isn't it, praying for someone ya never met and feeling so close. Maybe not a funny thing but a strong thing, the power of prayer, that is.

auh2o
February 23, 2009 - Msg 70560: Good afternoon, friends. Me-They, Zach may have lost his battle, but he won the war. It may just be that God loved him enough to call him home. His family and friends need our prayers now, as they cope with their loss, but Zach is just fine.

Friends, Miss Betty is very close to going home to the Lord as well. She is no longer eating, and has requested no visitors except family. Perhaps she'll meet Zach soon. Isn't that exciting?

Boo, bless you for the things you do for others. I'm glad you could be there to support that poor hurting man, and I pray that he will find his way out of the darkness that has enveloped his soul.

MDC, thanks for posting the album link. Just click on the last album - Yard and Wildlife - and it contains a lot of shots of the yard, among all the birds and squirrels. Remember that the first pages were taken when the yard was new and immature, the last pages are the most recent. I think the reverse view, taken from the back fence toward my window, is about midway through, around page 4, I think. In all honesty, the angle of that shot makes the yard look larger than it is. It's big, but not quite that big! Also, that particular shot was taken before the pond was added, so it looks a bit different now. There are several good shots of the pond, though.

Well, I've got to start getting ready for work. For just working two nights a week, they sure do roll around fast. I was up there for two hours this morning, for two different meetings, and now have to go back for a 12-hr shift. Argh.

Be blessed, everyone. --Romeena
February 23, 2009 - Msg 70561: Oh, and thanks, MDC, for answering my robe/no robe question. As you said, all TV characters wear robes over PJs, and that's understandable (and appreciated). I just wondered if my own household was different, or if that's just a TV thing. I recall an incident when an amorous young man came at 3a.m. to sing beneath my daughter's window, accompanied by his very tipsy older brothers and their father! My daughter quietly requested that they leave, and they refused, just sang louder and strummed their guitars! Daughter woke dad. I can assure you, he did not sit and blink and run his fingers through his hair, nor did he put on a robe. No, he charged through the house like a bull, yanked the front door open and stood there in his drawers, towering over the now-quaking young men and their terrified, 5'3" father, who had sobered up real quick. The old man got one protesting sentence out ("We just want to sing to your beautiful daughter", I believe it was). Dale took a step forward, and through gritted teeth, he suggested they vanish, and they did, like smoke. Then he calmly walked back to our room, got back into bed and was snoring in about ten seconds. Now, lest you think my DH had no romance in his soul, you should know that this particular boy was one our daughter didn't care to associate with, had dated once and once was enough. She had refused further dates, and had asked him several times at school to leave her alone.

Well, this time I really do have to get ready for work. (And feed me, little Starr is thinking.) Be blessed, all. --Romeena
February 23, 2009 - Msg 70562: For anyone interested in Mayberry collectibles, there's a very rare/unusual item on Ebay that was posted by one of our friends. If you search ANDY GRIFFITH SHOW BADGE KEYCHAIN GIFT TO ACTORS RARE, it should be the only item that shows up.
February 23, 2009 - Msg 70563: Hey gang,,ky girl,Rev,Mavis,Romeena,horatio,thomas and all...been busy all day...will someone cook in the morning?..I have to hit the sack and get up early for work...will read then...prayers...Maude?..Tom?...SPOT
February 23, 2009 - Msg 70564: Me-They, so sorry to hear about Zach.I will keep the family in my prayers.Romeena,so sorry to hear about Miss Betty.I think she will meet Zach in Heaven.Romeena, I looked at your yard, so pretty! You can tell it is lovingly cared for.I guess when your husband came to the door, those guys took one look at your husband and knew there was no room for argument!Yea, I think the robe is more of a t.v. thing.I usually put one on if someones at the door late at night or early in the morning.That's about the only time I would be in nightclothes anyway.Thanks MDC for the link to the photo album, I can never remember that web address, and, I don't know why, it's not real complicated.Hey Spot, I'll cook in the morning,sausage, gravy and biscuits, eggs any way you like, hashbrowns, coffee, tea, juice, milk,etc. See you all at 7 am-ky girl
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70565:
Hello my porch family.

M-T...I'm so sorry. Prayer for all of Zach's family and friends.

Boo....prayers for you to receive supernatural strength from from the Spirit of our Mighty God as you minister in power and in love.

Ro.....it's so comforting when you know Miss Betty is ready to go Home to our Lord.
Have a good night at work tonight.

Spot.....get some rest and don't work too hard tomorrow. Matt had that car fine tuned Sunday.

ky girl.....I'll be there 7am sharp for breakfast. Sure sounds good.

You all have a good night. Prayers for all the porch family. HE will never leave us nor forsake us....even while we are sleeping. Night
-REV.
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70566: Matt done great Sunday Rev....but the Daytona race....well...let me get logged in here at work...breakfast menu:2 eggs your way,country ham,hashbrowns,bisquits and gravy,oj,coffee,coke....SPOT
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70567: ky did not read above....we are gona have plenty to eat!....SPOT
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70568: Romeena, loved the story about Dale! My Dad always wore nothing but boxers, never any robes, but Bruce is a robe-aholic. Every evening, it's a shower, the robe goes on and doesn't come off until bed. It is really funny-looking because he has this pot-belly now and he ties the belt high above the belly! It's real attractive, especially when he also wears socks and slippers (heehee). Poor old dude...

Thank you all for your kind words concerning my friend who is hurting. In the words of Andy, you all are really somethin', you know that?

Better get Erin up for school. I am so behind on the house chores but have to go help out the parents and babysit Emily today (that little angel!!).

Boo
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70569: Mornin' Y'all.Boo,bless your heart.You do so much for others-please try to find time for yourself & get some rest!
Prayers for Miss Betty.And continued prayers for Zach's loved ones.
Can't rock too long-have to take my mom to doctor & then Laci is coming to spend a few nights with me. Between babysitting & this aggravating computer,I might not be on Porch much in the next few days.Y'all don't plan any trips to Mt. Pilot without me!
Thomas A.Moody,that was such a sweet Valentine's story you shared with us.By the way,I saw your episode last night.Had a good laugh when Barney told Andy you were a "klepto-men-o-rack"-I'd forgotten that!
Well,gotta scoot.Y'all take care!
*******************
possum under a rock
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70570: Thanks Possum! I got a really good night's sleep last night so I am feeling pretty good. You do so much for your family...I will give you the same advice...get some rest when you can and do something nice for Possum today.

Klepto-menorak (KM)would be a good TAGS name for someone, wouldn't it? haha

Boo
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70571: Good morning, everyone! Just passin' by on my way to bed. Long, rough night at work last night, and have to go back tonight. I had only four patients, and three of them were practically on autopilot, but there was one.....Oh, mercy! I hope she'll be gone home by tonight, but I'm afraid she won't. She'll still be there. She's that deadly combination - you other nurses will know what I mean - she really is sick, she really is in a significant amount of pain, but she knows how to milk it for all it's worth, and then some. "Drama Queen" would be a compliment. Let me just say this. She howls. Yep, howls. Ah-ooooooooo! Howls! A passing housekeeper nearly crashed her cart into the wall when the woman unleashed one of those wails. The final give-away was when I realized her husband was snoring right through it. He's heard it all before. He would wake up and help her to the bathroom (she wouldn't let anyone else), and was kind and gentle about it, but then back to sleep, right through the howling. Oh well. Tonight should be interesting. Guess I'd better get some sleep.

Be blessed, all. --Romeena
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70572:
APB for Charlotte, Lucy, Big Maude and others!!
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70573: Tic-a-lock
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70574: ...but thank you Johnny Shafto when the lead begins to fly!
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70575:
This is the week that pappaBear is in the VA hospital for tests etc, please keep him in your prayers.
Thanks, and prayers for you all, especially M-T
at this time.
MDC
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70576:
Ro, I sent you a pic from a little trip my wife and I took last week.

Possum, glad you enjoyed my episode.
Well, I guess I'll get back to "weaving my baskets. It's very 'thera petic'. I also must call mama. She'll be so proud of me".

Thomas A. Moody
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70577: Prayers for all the porch family:
Seems is goes in spells. AND yes, Ro-- there are the drama queens that make the rest of the patients look like dolls! Sleep tight, don't let the bedbugs bite! ~New Neighbor
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70578: Hey NN,steve(MDC),thomas,Romeena,Boo,Possum,Asa,hazel....others need to check in..Mavis I would put a sign up and call the law and get that man dug up and gone!..and once you get there I would get one of those dogs of yours and have them guard that place..not to sound mean or nothing but a shot gun and pistol would not be far from my side..you are back up in the woods and got to be safe...well lets have some BBQ sandwiches and chips for lunch..Maude?.Tom?..prayers to all...Mavis I did not mean to sound like a gangster but I think you know what I mean..I live far off the road also...yelling would not help me!...SPOT
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70579:
TAM, that's right, you dont want any "traumatic..., well, trauma!" teehee
MDC

Andy: You been reading again haven't you?
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70580: Hi porch. Mavis what Spot said sounds like a good idea. You never know with people, what they might do.Turned out to be a pretty day here on my end of the porch, hope it is the same for everyone-ky girl
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70581: Well gang my day is about done here at work...hey possum,ky,MDC...Im gona go home and put on the work clothes and work on the barn a bit...off the next two days now..will someone cook and bring me a plate over and I will eat on my barn break....SPOT
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70582: Dear Possum, I LOVED the song...Livingston is great! Thank you so much.

Message #70574....what???!

Sounds like a real pain, Ro (the pt.)..I can certainly sympathize with Ultra Drama Queens and the husbands who learn to ignore them (had one in L&D for 2 months in supposed pre-term labor). What a nightmare that was. I think it gave me traumatic shock disorder ;)

Thomas A, keep on weaving Darlin'. Look forward to seeing the picture of your trip.

Prayers for Pappa Bear, thanks for the reminder, MDC.

Where is Me-They...guess his nose is to the grindstone today.

When I went to help out the parents today, I was shocked at how poorly they are doing. Someone here on the porch had said that when you move elderly parents out of their home, they tend to go down quickly, and it certainly seems to be the case with my parents. Dad looks just terrible. He is pale and won't eat and is barely getting around. I just don't know what else to do for him. We practically begged him to eat today. New Neighbor, do you know if there is a med or supplement that I could give him to increase his appet!te? Mom is very depressed, too, and we have tried her on depression meds before and the side effects kept her from being able to take them and she fell while on them. They aren't lonely and always have people around but they are very sad, almost seem hopeless. Any words of wisdom would help, or if any of you would like to share your experience with elderly parents.

Better go...always plenty to do around here (can you moms and stay-at-home dads relate?) :)

Boo
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70583: Ro, that was supposed to read, "I can sympathize WITH you when it comes to Ultra Drama Queens.."

Boo
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70584:
Boo-picture yourself in your folks shoes.
You are in a place that is "home" for so many years, and
it is "yours," You know where everything is located, etc; then suddenly you are pulled from that to a totally different environment. It is
traumatic, so they are simply reacting to it, physically, emotionally, phychologically etc.
"For evry action there is an equal and opposite reaction."
Do they have any of their own furniture from the house, any paintings or other familiar things?
That is very important. Someday, someone may do the same to you, so try to think how you may react.
They say it is the hardest thing in the world.
One man at the place my mom was at, kept asking me
what he had ever done to his kids that they had him put "in a place like this." I cried inside everytime I heard him say that. Within a year, this 70 year old man was dead. The best answer is to try to
make such moves only when absolutely necessary, and then have plenty of familiar furnishings of all kinds move with them. Prayers, God help you and be with you and yours,
MDC

February 24, 2009 - Msg 70585: Good afternoon, friends. I just got up, and then got a call from work asking if I'd like to come in at 11 p.m., instead of 6:45. The aide that's supposed to come in at 11 called in, so they have to shuffle the staffing around at that time. That will put two nurses on the annex unit, which is where I prefer to work, instead of a nurse and an aide. Not a problem for me, it should be a decent night. My howler had her CT this morning, found a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, had surgery, got blood, and is probably doing fine right now, but I still think I'll let the other nurse keep her. That's the problem with drama queens. They make such a fuss that often it's hard to distinguish between dramatics and real problems.

MDC, you're right about the trauma of elderly folks having to leave their comfort zone and familiar surroundings, and the problems it causes. I remember - will never, ever forget - the sight of my dad sitting on a kitchen chair in the middle of his living room, watching as his life was dismantled before his eyes. He "directed" the disposition of his things, and to the extent that we could, we honored his directions. In the cases where we couldn't, he never seemed to realize it. We deliberately took a two-bedroom suite at the retirement residence for him, so he could take as much of his furniture as possible, and we arranged the living area as much like it had been at home as we possibly could. Of course, everything was scaled down, many pieces couldn't go, but we did our best, and I think it helped. We were fortunate, in that my dad had the resources to pay for such a place, and I understand that not everyone can do that. I probably won't be able to, myself, but I'm happy that we could do that for him.

My dad was an unusual man - happy, upbeat and positive - always. Even through the Alzheimer's fog, that nature would shine through. He had a deep and abiding faith, and in the last months of his life, his greatest dream and goal was to "go find my Mary and then see Jesus." The dementia caused him to plead with me and his doctors to make it happen, and not understand that we couldn't do that, but it was his faith and hope that prompted the request. He knew where he was going, and didn't see any point in hanging around here! Can't say I blame him.

Well, guess I'll go find something semi-yummy to eat, relax for a little while, then at 10:30 I'll head to the hospital for a short shift. Not a bad deal. Be blessed, everyone. --Romeena
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70586: Thank you, MDC. I think maybe it was you that mentioned to me in an earlier post that it was important to make things as familiar as possible in the new residence and we have done that. It was impossible for my parents to stay in their home. It just wasn't safe for them. I know they are grieving their old life and know they are coming to the end and can never go back. I ache for them and I know it was so hard. We put bedroom furniture, their favorite chairs and familiar pictures in their room and Dad took his weinie dog, which was a stretch because the dog hates my brother-in-law and barks at him constantly. The only thing that would probably help dad would be to take him on a trip, but it is hard because we all have responsibilities and can't just take off. I don't think he is in any shape to travel now, anyways. My brother Dave, from California is coming next month and that will help. Ro, my poor Dad just doesn't have hope or faith so that leaves him in a very difficult place as he nears the end of his life. It is hard to witness.

Well, better check on Erin and see if she is getting ready for bed...

Boo
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70587: It's always harder for someone without a strong faith anchor, as they reach the end of the journey. I'm so grateful that my parents were so secure in their beliefs, because it made the transition so much easier for them, and made giving them up easier for us, their family, to bear. My heart aches for you, Boo, and your parents, as you live through this difficult time. It's still not too late for your dad to find that place of trust, but even if he does, he can't build the solid rock of a lifetime of faith now, there isn't time. My father-in-law experienced a last-minute conversion, about six weeks before his death, and we were grateful for that, but still we mourned all the years he had spent in bitterness and doubt. Sadly, so did he.

Well, gotta get ready and head to work. Then I'm off until Sunday night. Be blessed, everyone. --Romeena
February 24, 2009 - Msg 70588: Good evening my porch family, it's been awhile as usual for me, just been working some extra hours here lately, bosses are on vacation. Wow such goings on here. MT, I'm so sory about Zach, nothing more can really be said. Even though we dont understand things, God still knows best. The family is in our prayers. Boo, prayers for your situation as well. I cant even imagine going through that. Ro, prayers for Miss Betty. To the ones I've missed, I'm sorry I still got some reading to catch up on. Mavis, thats some scarey stuff you got going on girl, please be careful in whatever you do in that situation.

Spot? I dont know about you, but I sure hope the next races are better than the past two. Dont worry about breakfast in the morning, I'll take care of it since I'm off. I'm thinking some sausage casserole and french toast would hit the spot. (no pun intedned lol) I hope everyone has a blessed night love and prayers for everyone--Salty Dog
February 25, 2009 - Msg 70589: Yes, it is possible for him to find that trust, Romeena. We have certainly been praying for it for 30 years now. He is a very sad man.

Hey there Salty, good to see you. Thank you for your prayers and hope you can find time to come and rest here more often.

Better get Erin up. She is completely back to her normal, challenging little self. She's full of vinegar, that one!

Boo
February 25, 2009 - Msg 70590: Good Morning Porch, cold & dreary here today, would much rather stayed in the bed instead of getting up to groom dirty dogs today, but......
Me-They I'm sorry to hear about Zach, prayers for his family as they go through this hard time & prayers for you & yours too, my friend.
Romeena prayers for Miss Betty's family as well, you're right tho, I'm sure she will meet with Zach when she goes home.
I know ya'll have just been on pins & needles wondering how it went with the crazy woman yesterday. :) It has been one more mess, let me tell you. She called Mr. Neff back about 3 times on Mon throwing a fit about us not wanting her out there anymore and about us having the Sheriff's Dept there to keep things the way they needed to be. I mean she DID NOT want the sheriff's dept there at ALL! Don't know why, but it didn't matter, they were there anyway.
She did come out at 9:00 yesterday morning, with her mother as a so-called witness and did get his urn and all the things from around his grave. There was no confrontation, but I believe that is because we did have the deputy there, she wanted to, a couple of times she started toward the house, but he stopped her. He informed her that she nor her family was not to come back, according to our wishes, and that since there are signs posted and she has been told by us AND the Sheriff's dept not to come back, if she does, she can and WILL be charged with criminal trespassing. I hope that will be the end of it, but something tells me, it won't.
I'll tell ya'll more about it later, I just wanted to let ya'll know, she did come get his urn and leave yesterday. Right now, I have to go pick up a dog for his grooming appt.
Ya'll have a great day!
*Mavis
February 25, 2009 - Msg 70591: Mavis, as Barney would say, "She's a nut!". Don't you just hate dealing with that sort of person? Anyway, I'm glad she got her husband out of there. She is obviously mentally unstable...you said she was an addict, didn't you?

Got a lot of laundry and chore staring at me this morning so better get a move on...

Boo
February 25, 2009 - Msg 70592:

Mornin', Porch. Well, a lot has happened since I posted my prayer request for that family in my neighborhood. First off, I got the boys jobs with a friend of mine who runs his own company. They're sooooo happy to be working and buying groceries. I guess teenagers are a little like stray cats - feed 'em and they keep coming back. LOL But that's ok. I just have two more kids now. :-) My family's financial situation took a decided upswing the very morning after I posted here. Things are looking up, up, up. THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH! (I know I shouldn't shout, but hey, sometimes ya gotta shout!) I love you guys. Prayers for each and every one of you and those in your lives.

~De§~


February 25, 2009 - Msg 70593:
Great new DES! Woohoo!
APB for Homemaker. Anyone seen her lately?
Anyone watch the speech last night? I'm sorry, he scares me.
Well today I remember the beginning of the 40 day fast that my REAL Savior did before starting his public teaching. My prayers are with you all,
especially M-T as he mourns the passing of Zach.
have a good day dear ones.
MDC
"I can't hear your a-mem-mi-knees."
February 25, 2009 - Msg 70594: How do you do Mrs WY-Lee
February 25, 2009 - Msg 70595: Oh my, I can't wipe the grin off my face!!! Yipee! Thank you for posting the good news, DES.

No, MDC, I didn't watch the speech. I try to avoid scaring myself ;)

Sure would like to hear from M-T..hope he isn't too down.

Boo
February 25, 2009 - Msg 70596: Good afternoon, porch. Just got up after a short nap, am about to go get Eloise and go to El Fenix for some good ol' cheese enchiladas!

I didn't watch Big O's speech, though I did record it. Shoot, I haven't even watched the inauguration yet. I figure I'll watch them one of these days, but right now, I just don't have the stomach for it. Oh, by the way - I must say, "Vogue" magazine has a nerve! Standing in the checkout line at the grocery store this morning, I read the headline on the current issue - "Michelle Obama, the First Lady the whole world has been waiting for!" Oh, brother! How dare they presume to speak for "the whole world"! I would just as soon have gone on waiting, thank you very much. Oh well. It's not worth getting all worked up over on this beautiful day.

Good news, De§! Glad to hear it, and thank the Lord! Mavis, you keep a watchful eye out. You may very well be right, that she's not through yet. She sounds like a genuine nut to me.

Yep, I had my "howler" patient again last night. Big developments, though. She had surgery yesterday, a serious situation was corrected, and last night went a lot better. No more howling, at least. I gave her a backrub, and she thinks I'm an angel. Poor thing, she's really a nice person, she just has a strange way of coping with stress and pain. To each his/her own, I guess.

Be blessed, friends. --Romeena
February 25, 2009 - Msg 70597: Hey, Thomas A. Moody. There's a picture of your alter-ego, Chuck, in the album now. He's standing in front of the window of a store in a town named for one of your ancestors! Check it out, folks! That TAM (Chuck) is a fine-looking feller. --Romeena
February 25, 2009 - Msg 70598: Great-looking picture of "Husband of the Year" (Chuck)..heehee. Thanks for sharing. Have you been exercising? You look pretty buff (no Possum, I am NOT flirting, so NO rumors).

Ro, I was at Barnes and Noble bookstore the other night with the kids and I noticed that in the display of popular books section, there were two books about Obama. I think one was called, "Obama, Son of Promise". I almost choked (and not from laughter). I about shot Frappacino out my nose!

Better go...Emily is here and I have to keep an eye on her.

Boo


February 25, 2009 - Msg 70599:
Our church just finished up a 12 week gathering called "The Truth Project" by Focus on the Family. It was amazing! If any of your churches present it...GO! Here is a quote from thetruthproject.com

"In a recent study, the Barna Research Group revealed a stunning statistic that continues to reverberate throughout the evangelical world – only nine percent of professing Christians have a biblical worldview.

Because of this, today's believers live very similarly to non-believers. A personal sense of significance is rarely experienced, we spend our money and time on things that fail to satisfy, and we begin to wonder what life's ultimate purpose really is. We are, in short, losing our bearings as a people and a nation.

To counter this downward slide within the body of Christ, Focus on the Family has launched one of the most ambitious and powerful projects in the history of our ministry – Focus on the Family's The Truth Project®.

The Truth Project is a DVD-based small group curriculum comprised of 12 video lessons (recommended to be viewed and discussed over 13 consecutive weeks) taught by Dr. Del Tackett, President of the Focus on the Family Institute and a Senior Vice President of our ministry. This study is the starting point for looking at life from a biblical perspective. Each lesson discusses in great detail the relevance and importance of living the Christian worldview in daily life."

have a good evening,
MDC


February 25, 2009 - Msg 70600: I have heard a little about The Truth Project, MDC. I'm going to ask Mark about possibly doing it at our church. It sounds really good and I trust James Dobson and what he endorses.

Well, speaking of church, I better round up the kids and get going.

Boo
February 25, 2009 - Msg 70601: Gang im still here just been busy on the barn...prayers...will read in a bit...yall been eating?....SPOT
February 25, 2009 - Msg 70602: Good evening porch friends, hope everyone had a good day.Mine was pretty good. Ran errands and caught up on homework. Well, gonna get some sleep.Prayers for everyone- ky girl
February 26, 2009 - Msg 70603: Good morning, porch! Am I the first one here? Goodness, that doesn't happen often. I'm up earlier than usual, my handyman friend is coming to change out the lights along the back fence. I've given up on finding a way to add color to those dratted little halogen floodlights. The fixtures were inexpensive, and they seemed like the way to go, but they're a harsh white light, and anything I put over them to make them colored just explodes in the heat. Oops, I see Ted walking through the yard right now. Guess I'd better go. See you later, taters. --Romeena