August 15, 2009 - Msg 74559: Where is everybody??...out having fun on a saturday, no doubt. It's too dang hot outside to do anything here in south texas. Bruce came home from working outside and he looked like he was going to collapse. He told me that he was out in the trench, pulling on this long conduit pipe and it wouldn't budge. He got frustrated and pulled with all his might. The conduit snapped and he rammed the end he was holding into his right testicle. He said he bent over and fell face first into the sand and just stayed there for awhile like an ostrich with it's head in the sand! Is that hilarious or what?! Wish I could have seen it (I am a very compassionate wife, by the way) ;-)

Boo
August 15, 2009 - Msg 74560: Oh man, I swept with that?! HAHA!

Boo
August 15, 2009 - Msg 74561: No, no, that is not hilarious, Boo. At least to us men. ;)
Poor Bruce.

Just wanted to pop in and tell you all we made it over to Hawaii safely. Thank God. Only one more trip to go.
I actually got to play the brave dad for Kai, and tell her what the different sounds were as she would ask me when they occurred.
Right now we are helping fix up my wife's dad's house, so the trip isn't totally for nothing.

Well, will try to talk later.
And I am going to be extra careful around the pipes around here. ;)

-Sterling Holobyte
August 15, 2009 - Msg 74562: Don't worry Sterling at least Boo is tucked away in Texas, far away from Hawaii and your pipes. teehee That is great you are helping Kai not to be afraid, I bet she was beyond excited! Just wanted to stop by and say hey to everybody, it's been a lazy kind of day here today, thankfully. Ro I wanted to tell you about my squirrels here eating banana chips! They LOVE them! I get bird food that has all kinds of good things in it for my birds. My little Quaker parrot won't eat those or almonds so I save them for the critters, my Amazon parrot won't eat peanuts so I save those too and the squirrels just go crazy for the almonds and the banana chips! They grab those little banana chips and lick them, then crunch them, and boy if there is more than one squirrel out there at a time, it is something else to watch the "battle of the banana chips" you should grab a bag of them just for kicks and enjoy watching the antics. Anyway, I'm off here.
later taters
*Mavis
August 15, 2009 - Msg 74563: YAY!! Sterling is safely in Hawaii!...yes, watch out for those pipes.

Well, the only problem is that banana chips are expensive around here. Worth it for a squirrel treat and some good entertainment, though.

Boo
August 15, 2009 - Msg 74564: Hey Asa,Mav,Ro,Boo,Possum,Sterling and all...will go read the other page in just a bit.....back here at work till 6am...let me get things rolling...man My Great Mom fixrd me a plate and broughrt it to me (sorry none to share) but its baked pork chops,purple hull peas,cream corn,fried okra,squash,onion and cuke and mater salad with italian dressing,cornbread (all veggies from garden)....got a big quart of milk also....whew..cant wait to eat that in a bit....SPOT
August 15, 2009 - Msg 74565:
Hello porch family Been a great day with my family.

Sterling....glad to hear you're safely in Hawaii.

Asa.....man that corn sounds so good. Never heard of that kind. I love it when you bite into the cob and it just pops into your mouth.

Yea Boo.... you really sound like a VERY compassionate wife.....poor Bruce! :)

Spot....brother we need to let your mom cook for us one night.

Ro....have fun at the party. Also....I have heard the same thing about the rash. Good ole natural sun that God gives us. Of course we better be careful or the FDA will tell us we can't use it without a presciption. lol

Well better get off here and get ready for bed. Praying for all the porch family. Sleep good tonight....HE is watching over you! Thank You Lord!
Love you guys!
-REV.
August 15, 2009 - Msg 74566: Good grief, SPOT...would you ask your mom to adopt me? Hope all that food don't lay on yer chest.

Guess what I found in the thrift store today, besides a crystal container for my Q-tips?....a like-new album of THE DILLARDS!! Made in the 60's and not a scratch on it. Fun!

Better go spend some time with the kids. They want to watch a movie together and I want to go to sleep!

See ya in the a.m. with my morning coffee and a smile (or a yawn, depending).

Boo
August 15, 2009 - Msg 74567: That last statement came off like I am planning on coming to the computer unadorned...let me just say that i will be wearing the proper attire AND a smile.... ;-)

Night-night Mayberry!

Boo
August 15, 2009 - Msg 74568: Well, here it is. Saturday night. I’ve been on vacation all this week. I guess I didn’t post more than usual, even though I was home, because I’ve been so durn busy. With fun stuff. I am just finishing up with my very favorite kind of vacation. One where I didn’t go anywhere… just stayed home. I was to the point at work where I was about to get the notice that I better “use it or lose it”. And man, I liked it pretty fine. It’s been a real different summer here for us. Sure, we had our hot spells (over a 100 for several days in a row, in July). But usually it’s even hotter than that. We had lots of rainfall the first part of June. Lots of folks didn’t get their gardens in until the middle of June because the ground was so wet. Then, some hot weather in July, but not really too bad. Then, first part of August, and more rain. I think we’re having the best fire season for many years… usually we have wild fires going for most of the summer. Not so this year. And this week, while I’ve been home. 70’s. It’s like the end of September, weather-wise. And my garden is doing great. Lucy, you asked about my container garden. In years past, I might have 3 or 4 vegetable plants in pots. This year, I think I mentioned that my main garden, that I’ve had in the same spot for almost 20 years, was getting too much shade. So I have about half of that garden vegetables (the part that gets the most sun) and the other half is in flowers.) Anyway, my husband made me a second garden spot, in the old circle where we used to have an above ground pool. It gets tons of sun. Well, that is my container garden. I have 16 tomatoes, some cantaloupe, green beans, carrots, squash, eggplant, and flowers. All in containers. They are doing absolutely wonderful. I buy my containers from a place that is actually based out of Utah, but they have one of their stores in a town about 20 miles from me. They are each about 20 inches deep, and maybe 18 inches round. The plants do great in them. My husband got me a digital camera for Christmas, and I’m still learning how to use the thing. I did take lots of pictures today, so I hope to figure it out so I can send them to Ro to put in the album. I have pictures of my main garden, and my container garden, and the flowers around the patio. I love gardening. Both vegetable and flowers. I love to plant my flowers from seed… so I don’t have to spend money at the flower nurseries in May. Saves money, plus it is so fun and rewarding. This past June, I had grown so many flowers in pots, that I was taking flats of extras to work for the gals at work. I love sharing cool flowers.

But, the funnest part of my vacation has been playing with my dog. I’ve told you all about our border collie. We got her around Thanksgiving time last year. She is now 10 months old, weighs around 35 pounds. And is the sweetest thing. Loves to play “catch”. (Just like our previous border collie, Mollie, who lived to be almost 14 years old, and has been gone about 3 years). As I’m messing around in the garden, deadheading petunias, or watering, or whatever, I’ll feel this “plop” by my feet. She’ll have gently dropped her tennis ball by my feet, then run clear across the yard. And just waits patiently for me to notice.
When I do see the ball, I give it a huge fling, and she’s off to catch it. Then we start over. I love it! I’ve got pictures of her too, hopefully you’ll get to see them. She does this one funny thing. We have a bench in front of our garden. Whenever we sit on that, to just relax, she brings the tennis ball in her mouth. Circles the bench where we’re sitting. 1, 2, 3 times. Just circles. Then she’ll go slow, when she’s right behind us, and drop the ball, and then runs as fast as she can to a place in the yard. It’s like the game we used to play when we were kids. “Drop the hankershift”, I think it was called. Or in my daughters day, I think it was called “Duck, duck, goose”. Where one kid circles the group of kids sitting in a circle, and then drops the hankershift behind one kid and runs off. They have to get up real quick and try to catch the kid. Anyway, it reminds me of that. Her name is Sally (you know Sally, "she dances with Al" haha). She loves being outside, and there's nothing like seeing a happy dog at play!

Well, didn’t mean to write a book.

10-4,
Hazel

August 15, 2009 - Msg 74569: Hazel the garden sounds great...Rev will get Mom to send ya a plate..Boo WOW a Dillard album!..a prize for a mayberry fan for sure...WOW..neat..well fixing to watch some movie on the Life channel....not really much on...and the Mom plate was great...Im booked up working till next thu but after that its 6 days off and YARD work..gosh sweet gum trees just pop up all over the place..got to get my peas and greenbean garden rows cut for turnip greens in a few weeks..well let me set back and rub my full belly....SPOT
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74570: Forgot to mention what veggies I have this year (since I know everyone is so very interested... NOT). I grew lots of onions, which did great. Also shallots. Tomatoes, potatoes (Idaho potatoes, no less), many types of peppers, carrots, eggplant, 3 kinds of squash, pole green beans, cucumbers. Oh, and cilantro (for salsa) and basil (for pesto). No corn. I just don't have the room!
That is all.
- Hazel
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74571: Hey to Spot. (you snuck in on me)
- Haze
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74572: Well, I'm back...wasn't ready for bed yet...How enjoyable your post was Hazel! It's great to hear about your vacation and your description of Sally's antics gave me a vivid mental image of the events. She sounds like a treasure! We had a very sweet and smart Border Collie when I was in middle school. Her name was Blossom. My mother adored her but sadly, poor mother accidentally backed over her in the driveway and killed her. Poor mom was was devastated, of course. I think my mother has about the softest heart towards animals than anyone I know. She came by it naturally. Her father, though they were very poor and had 8 mouths to feed in the family, bought a pig to raise for meat. He and a friend eventually had to kill the pig when it was grown but it was such a trauma he swore he would never do it again, and he never did. He was one of those men with a gruff exterior but a marshmallow heart. I miss him.

Hazel, I think playing with a dog is thera-pedic ;-). It's like being a kid again. I love playing fetch with our lab. She is huge and strong (and very fast). She sounds like a horse thundering through the yard when she runs.

Boy, I wish we had some of those 70 degree days! It would be heavenly. Everyone around here needs a break from the heat so badly. It won't last forever (it will just seem like it).

Well, maybe I will sign off and go to bed now. Have to get up for preachin' in the morning!

Boo
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74573: Hazel,so glad to read your post!It sounds like a nice vacation.And your collie sounds so sweet.Spot,send me a plate too,it all sounds good.Boo,poor Bruce,that had to be so miserable.Well gang,I'm headed to the ole ironing board,talk to you all later-ky girl
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74574: Good Morning gang...b-fast at cracker barrell...be there at around 8...Boo bring a paper ok....SPOT
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74575: Roger!

Boo
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74576: Good Sabbath Porch.

Hey Hazel. I enjoyed your book and look forward to seeing those pictures. Border Collies have got to be one of the smartest dogs there are I do believe. I had one as a child, named her Prince (yea, HER name was Prince) but she was smart and loyal. What have you named her?

Hey Rev, drop by and grab some corn. It'll twang yer buds. I think I could convert an athiest with this stuff. To dang good to happen by chance. Gods handiwork is evident. :)

Glad you made it safe to Hawaii Sterling. Enjoy your time there and have some fun.

Well Boo, our rain down here in the valley yesterday resulted in 4 inches of snow at one of the local ski resorts peaks. At 11,000 ft. it was snowing yesterday. I guess Hazel and I are close enough to have simulat weather, cause she described ours to a tee. Seems like summer has been very short, with not a lot of heat. Maybe we'll have a nice long Indian fall/ summer to make up for it, followed by a mild winter.

Well best go get ready for preachin. Sure hope they fixed or replaced that organ. I don't think Clara can take much more of it.

Asa
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74577: I don't think they fixed it, Asa. I went to early service and heard a couple sour notes, and saw a tear in Clara's eyes. Maybe we should take up a collection for a new one? If you don't have the money right now, we could each pledge something, and pay later.
Speaking of that ep, my favorite part is when Clara sings "Some Enchanted Evening". The look on Andy and Warrens face is priceless.

- Hazel
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74578: Well Hazel, I'll pledge a few dollars if you will I reckon. I'm still a little miffed we didn't get a pool table though, a few years back when we had that windfall. Although I admit playing pool on a leaning table is problamatic.
You think Clara was trying to egg him on while he buttered her up? :)

Asa
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74579: Well, there was a story going around about them, but I ain't one to gossip.
- Hazel
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74580: I am...what's the story??? Does it have anything to do with Myra Koontz?

Boo
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74581: Good afternoon gang!..good b-fast meeting...RACE day race fans!..MDC,Mavis,Rev yall gona be able to watch it?..Go Tony and Mark...rain delay now but not for long...lunch menu:grilled ham and cheese sandwiches,sour cream and onion chips(plain too),bread and butter pickels,maude slaw,Boo tea...possum brownies....aafter we eat I got to hi the shower and head back to work at 6...cut a big mess of okra this mroning...who want it?....SPOT
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74582: Well, Boo, the way I hear it... (oh shoot, something's come up... I'll have to tell you the story about Myra Koontz later)
- Hazel
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74583: Enjoying the TAGS marathon on tv land.
"Yep, it's the liver. She took one look at it and started crying."

"It ain't a whim if you put on clean underwear".

"There's nothing more I hate than a wino on a crying jag."

"What are we crying about here. A bed with a lid!"

Asa
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74584: (whining) Hazel!...Don't leave me hanging like this!

Great quotes, ASA...wonder if that marathon is still on...I'm goin' to check it out.

Boo
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74585: Afternoon Family:
Just wanted to check in to say we made it back to the USA safe and sound. What a wonderful time, and so life changing. We truly are a blessed, spoiled nation! Hoping to get some pics on here soon. Thanks for all the prayers and thoughts. We had a great work team that was so much fun to be with...Off to rest. ~New Neighbor
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74586: Welcome back NN!..kinda a slow porch this evening..Boo you and Asa and hazel want some left over roast and taters?..SPOT
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74587: Heck yea Spot. I'm on my way over.

Welcome back Sandy. We wanna hear all about your adventure.

Asa
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74588: Asa will put the roast and left over taters in the oven and make some tea for us...SPOT
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74589:
Sterling-must be big wires coming from hawaii! ha
Boo- how did you get the "t" word thru the censor? ha Believe me, I can feel his pain!
One 3-letter word...cup. ha
Hazel- glad you had a good vacation.
Hey to everyone else!
"Oh Andy, what happened to your eyeeeeee."
Prayers,
MDC
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74590: Welcome home, N Neighbor! Come back and tell us more about the trip after you rest up.

Yes SPOT...roast and TATERS! sounds good, thanks.

Boo

"I didn't heave it!"
August 16, 2009 - Msg 74591: Oh hey, MDC. I guess those who would try to spread smut on this site wouldn't use the proper name for parts of the anatomy. ;-)

Boo
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74592:
Hello porch family. Just got home from a concert tonight. Had a great time. So nice to be close enough that I get to sleep in my bed at home. Don't get to do that very often after a concert.

Hazel....sounds like you had a very nice vacation.

Asa...."convert an athiest with your corn"....I like that. Now that's some good stuff!

Spot....didn't get to see much of the race because of my concert. But caught the highlights on the news. Also, our Braves are really in for a tough fight to get into the playoffs this year. I haven't given up on them yet but they really needed to sweep the Phillies.

Welcome back New Neighbor! Get some rest.

Speaking of rest...I'm off to bed. You all have a blessed night and start your week off by telling someone about Jesus.
My love and prayers for all the porch family.
-REV.



August 17, 2009 - Msg 74593: New Neighbor,so glad you are home and I can't wait to hear about your trip.Rev,glad you made it home to sleep in your own bed.It is one oclock in the morning and I have been thinking about lima beans cooked with a hamhock for 3 days,so I just put them on to cook about half an hour ago,but,they will be done in about an hour,then I'll make some cornbread.It's a little different than what Spot usually cooks us for breakfast,but,hey,I can throw on some breakfast food too for anybody that prefers it.I know this ain't what Barney would call a whim,because I thought about it for three days,but,it is still good eatin!Thanks for those quotes Asa.I got to see 3 eps of the marathon,and I got a good laugh out of the "bed with a lid on it "!I can honestly say,I do not like canopy beds.They make me claustrophobic.Well,you all,guess I will close and make sure my beans have plenty of water.Be ready to eat in an hour or so.Spot,bring any taters and roast you have left if you want to.Oh,and I'll take some of the okra too.Mine didn't do well at all-ky girl
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74594: Ok ky will send ya some okra..I have to cut mine every other day....well nice slow night here at work...just a couple of calls...home for me at 6am then back at 2pm for 16 more...lets swing by McDonalds for breakfast for a change...they have good steak and cheese bagels...and coffee...Boo bring a paper please ok....me I never have any change for the box....SPOT
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74595: My husband's uncle passed away this morning. Many of you have prayed for him and I know that his passing was God's will. I am thankful that my husband will have a good memory of our last visit with him. We went down last Sunday and visited with him for about 3-4 hours. He was clear headed and talked well. This was good for my husband and for Uncle Ray. We knew that he would pass before Christmas due to his heart condition. Thank you once again for the prayers.

hm
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74596: Mornin Y'all- things have settled down here at the rock,I got a good LONG night's sleep,and hopefully will be able to sit down & read all of the posts from the past few days.I don't know what's been going on with my fellow Porchsters- pray all is well. God Bless you all.
I do know in my heart,because I know how caring you all are,that prayers have been going up for my sister's family and especially my nephew Andy.I'll tell you why that boy has touched my heart & I'm worried about him once I can catch up,ok? Please continue to keep Andy in your prayers-he needs them. Heartfelt thanks,friends.
Oh,can y'all believe OUR Laci will start school tomorrow?! Yes,she will be in kindgarten in Special Needs. Please pray for her-it is a big new thing for her. She's never been in a daycare or around other children much.I think she will make great strides.I will miss having her as often,but this is where she needs to be.
Homemaker,I did read your post right above mine. You & your family are in my thoughts and prayers-God Bless.
I'll see y'all later-love to all.
*******************
possum under a rock
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74597: Hey KY Girl, I haven't had lima beans with cornbread in ages! It used to be one of my favorite meals as a kid. Mom used to make her coleslaw to go with it, which consisted of shredded cabbage, Miracle Whip, vinegar, a little sugar and salt and pepper to taste. That was some awesome-good eatin', as i recall. I would make it now and then but Bruce and Sean would gag at the notion. Talk about picky eaters! Growing up with my hillbilly mom from west virginia, I learned to eat all kinds of good, southern cooking but Bruce didn't. His mom used to fix venison and potatos most of the time because it's what Bruce's dad wanted. Now and then she would experiment with something out of a magazine and it was always a flop. We still tease her about her horrible King Ranch Chicken!

I never cared to have a canopy bed because, ya'll know me, I would be staring at that thing thinking, 'that thing is collecting alot of dust. Time to wash it!', and all I need is something else to wash...

Speaking of okra; I have a real fondness for fried okra. We used to grow it in the garden when I was a kid and mom would pick it, slice it and fry it up for dinner. Wow, good stuff (especially with some of that sweet corn with real butter, some spinach with a splash of vinegar, and some of mama's cornbread).

So sad to hear about Ray's passing, Homemaker. Prayers for your dear family, and your husband, especially.

Prayers continue for Andy, Possum. So Laci is starting to school?! Can you believe it? Seems like only yesterday she was born.

I am seriously thinking about crawling back into bed for another hour. I woke up too early and went to bed too late. A friend from church gave me some of those tabs that you put on the pages of your bible to help you find the different books and I sat up putting those on...took me over an hour! They are great to have on there, though.

Be back later....I'll bring the paper, SPOT.

Boo
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74598: Good morning Porch! Boy what a day we had here yesterday, first thing, before coffee or anything 2 of the Bullies busted through the fence AGAIN and ended up at a house behind up in a fight! Well if you can call it a fight, Darla stuck her nose through that dog's fence, he grabbed her nose trying to pull her through and let me tell you, he tore her nose all the pieces! It is a mess, she couldn't get a bite on him because of the way her nose is shaped and the fact that it was between the chain links. We couldn't get him to turn her loose and obviously his owner was a little afraid to get near him. I kept telling him how to get him loose, but he just wouldn't listen to me. Finally Feather came up and went for the other dog, he turned loose of Darla to go for Feather and I pulled her away. I had her back legs up in the air so I could pull her off. Mr Neff ended up getting a pretty bad bite through his fingernail and Feather got a laceration on her muzzle. Darla was by far the worst of them all. She is much better this morning, still looks bad but acting a little more like herself and alot of the swelling has gone down. I was up most of the night worrying over her and of course I have to try to work today on very little sleep. On top of all of that, yesterday was Mr. Neff's birthday! Poor dear, what a great way to start a birthday off, huh?
Also, our automotive tech and his wife had their baby boy yesterday! They are beyond excited! Haven't gotten the name or the weight/length yet, but I'll get that today
Laci in school?! I can't believe it! I bet she will have a ball, can't wait to hear all about it!
Well, best try to get more coffee in me so I can at least try to act like somebody today.
later taters,
*Mavis
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74599: Morning porch, hope everyone is up and ready for the week ahead. Busy Busy Busy the past few days and off to work I go today. Beth had a successful first week of her sophmore year last week, not too much homework yet. I have a feeling she will stay busy though. She has chemisty and an honors english class. Patrick will start on the 31st. HOT HOT HOT weather around my end of the porch this week end.

It is race time in Bristol this week end so things are "gearing" up for all the fans. Hopefully it won't be so hot for them. I know Mavis lives in Bristol which is only about 45 minutes or so from me. Gosh Mavis we need to plan to meet sometime. That would be fun.

Better get to work, Oh and lunch menu will be:
roast beef sandwiches, sliced tomatoes, SLAW,
chips, chocolate oatmeal cookies. tea, lemonade to drink. see you all at noon.

Prayers and blessings to all.

Big Maude
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74600: Our baby Laci is in school?! Wow - yes she will make great strides with other kids around. Keep an eye on your school system and make sure they follow through with what is in her IEP (the plan they had to make to put her in kdg.) If it is written down they must do it and show documentation that they did it to boot. Never expect them to follow through - sometimes, they will get bogged down with other kids and "forget" - don't let them get by with that either. You will need to be her advocate. As you have done in the past, you will need to be her voice. Just some words from a special ed teacher.

hm
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74601: Well, my little nap didn't work out (the cat was crying outside the door). I can't let him in or he will pounce on my feet (or face, which is worse). I guess I am up for the duration, like you Mavis. (BIG YAWN)

Boo
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74602: Ok,I FINALLY caught up on reading all the posts. Funny camping stories, good veggies y'all got growin' and I believe this is the FIRST time in my life that I have ever prayed for somebody's (Emily)lil' hiney to get better!
Boo,I thank you dear friend for praying for Andy. You too,Asa. I know others are praying for him as well- thank you friends. Here's why I am so heartbroken for that young man:
He just turned 18,had good friends, a job and happy life here in SC. He wanted to go to the Art Inst*tute in Charleston (he has lots of artistic talent),but his dad wouldn't pay for it-wants him out West with them.Anyhow, Andy & I have not had many close talks lately-(y'all know how teenagers are about us old timers!) but he is very close with my daughter,& I know from her how unhappy he is about moving.
The day they came to my mom's to say goodbye,I pulled him aside and told him that I know life is bringing changes that aren't fair,that he doesn't want,and to know I will always be here for him & if he gets to where he cannot stand it in Wyoming,let me know and me & the rest of his family here will do whatever we can to get him home. He mainly just listened & nodded.
Then I gave him a CD of James Taylor's greatest hits- told him every acousitic guitar player (Andy is great on guitar) HAS to have some James Taylor,plus there are songs on there that will mean something to him ('Carolina in My Mind" & "You've Got A Friend") and that he will realize WHY I gave it to him. I hugged him,told him I loved him,he told me the same.

Later,my mama was in her bedroom and wanted to have some time one at a time with each kid and give them each a Bible. The rest of the family was in the kitchen having lunch. I noticed Andy sitting alone on the couch & went & sat next to him. I asked "You're worried about Gran,aren't you?" He nodded his head yes. That boy loves his grandmother so. I told him to try not to worry,that we( family still here) would do our best to take care of her & not let her grieve badly over them moving.
He just started opening up to me then and said this: " You know,I am looking at this move like it's a vacation. That's the only way I can deal with it.That's not gonna be home,all my friends and everything is here." I looked down at him in his shorts & flip flops,and said "you're a Southern guy,aren't you?" and he said "yeah." Again,I told him to keep in touch,we'd help get him home somehow & I told him that anything he tells me,don't think just because his mom is my sister,I will tell her-to know he can trust me.
Well, a t-storm was brewing,and I had strolled over with Laci & needed to get home,so I had to be the first one with final goodbyes.As I picked Laci up and headed for the door,I passed Andy.All I could do was reach out,squeeze one arm and say "Remember what I told you" to which he replied "I will." As I turned back to close the door behind me,Andy's eyes were locked on my face-I'll never forget it. Poor sweet boy.
I learned later that he asked my daughter if he could come live with her-that he would work and even help with Laci. Poor sweet boy. She couldn't tell him yes because the house she's in belongs to her roomate's aunt.Plus,his dad & mom would probably disown him for "rebelling".
So, Andy is driving his dad's pickup alone,following the rest of the family in moving vehicles across the country, to a place he doesn't want to go.Can you imagine how he must feel?! Once in Wyoming,they are sending him to a community college about 25 miles from where they will live. This is a very isolated part of western Wyoming.
I am just so disgusted & upset by my sister & her husband not considering their children.For some crazy pipe dream of her husband,my sister has been brainwashed and has bought into it too. Heaven help 'em when the snows come! Andy has a 20 yr old sister that's mentally impaired. She loves Laci to death & doesn't understand things. She was talking about Laci's birthday party coming up! This girl will wander out into a blizzard to pet a grizzly bear- Lord watch over her. The younger niece is 11 and facing new circumstances too. She appeared depressed to us.It's sad.

Oh,and the Bibles my mom gave them? My sister & her husband have instilled NO religion in those kids.None. nada. My mom had inscribed in front of Andy's Bible something like "As you face the challenges of change." She read that aloud and had something critical to say about it. I spoke up & said "Well,he IS facing change!" Then I told Andy that the book of Matthew holds lots of good things-that it is in the New Testament. My sister actually asked if the New Testament was in that Bible!! I could have screamed! I pray that Andy and the two girls come to know God somehow. But... I KNOW that God knows them and will protect them.
Ok,I have probably used all of Floyd's bandwidth (or whatever it's called!) here,but I did so want y'all to know the story behind the story.

Thank you all again for praying for those children.And yes,Laci starts school-lots of changes taking place.
I'll give my fingers a rest and get back to the Porch later. Y'all take care.
**********
possum again
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74603: Thanks, homemaker. I know. I was a Special Ed. aide for over 20 years. Actually, her mom is going to have to be the advocate-I didn't go to the IEP meetings. But,I will be on her all the time to be Laci's voice & make sure her needs are met. Believe me. From what I am hearing, it is a good set up for Laci. I pray.
HM,I'll keep you posted & may need advice from time to time,ok? Thanks friend.
*********
possum
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74604:
Possum-Andy and all involved, including you, are in my prayers. God bless you for all you did for them.!
MDC
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74605: Hi All
just stop in ben figth wite stepdad to stay out of all the heat we are having.
It not helping his copd.

Puse it run me down at time.

tom
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74606: Well, I don't know about everyone else, Possum, but I'm praying they realize the mistake they made and come back home by winter. What on earth was so tempting that they made a move across the country? You said it was a "crazy pipe dream"? What does he think will happen out there?

Sorry you are having a tough time, TOM. Prayers for your strength in this heat.

Boo
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74607: Thanks,MDC.

Tom,sorry you are having a hard time.Your stepdad is lucky to have you to help him. I know you're having it rough now,but you will be blessed down the road for your good actions. Hang in there!
**********
possum again
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74608: Wanna hear something crazy??! The remote control to the tv has been missing for a few days and I went into the pantry and saw a half-eaten bag of popcorn. I looked inside the bag, and there was the remote. Heavens! Hope I didn't do it...

Boo

Boo
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74609: Oh hey,Boo. Who the heck knows? My brother in law is a strange one.Smart,but strange. He got tired of living in their nice home in the city,where there were people around,places to go, his wife and children were happy,etc. We believe he has had this in the works for a LONG time. Looking back,we see signs. Now all of a sudden,Andy is out of high school-BOOM-they're off!I think he wants to not live around people. I really don't know. My sister has done a drastic change. I have no idea of if she was given ultimatums,promises or anything like that,but she is totally 100% doing whatever he wants.She always said she would not think of moving as long as our mom was alive,because she knew she (Mama) couldn't take it. I think he finally wore her down.I hope she'll wise up and come home with those children- leave him out there in the snow if need be! Yes,prayers for them all-they sure need them.
Thinking of you on your porch praying for my nephew meant a lot to me,Boo. THANK YOU.
****************
possum once more
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74610: Remote in the popcorn bag? Oh my my!

possum again
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74611: Boo - sounds like "old timers" has caught up with you!! hm
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74612: No kidding...

You are welcome, Possum.

Boo
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74613: Ha Boo. Next you'll find your pants in the fridge.

Will continue with the prayers Possum.

HM, Sorry about the loss of Randy. Good to see you though. Hope you find the job of your dreams.

Hang tough Tom. Summer is short lived now.

Dang Mavis. You sure know how to throw a party. Glad your furkids are ok. Very scary.

Just trying to muddle through a Monday here. Been good so far.

Asa
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74614: Already found my bra in the freezer last week, ASA.;-)

Boo
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74615: Oh, I was just trying to stay cool....you know, freeze the undergarments before putting them on after a shower....it's a common Texas "thang". Do you believe that?

Boo
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74616: How funny Boo. I was looking for the cordless phone yesterday and could not find it anywhere. I had my daugther go to the base phone and push the locater button and finally tracked down the beeping to the pantry. I was the only one who had used that phone so it had to be me who put it there. Sometimes I wonder about me.
Big Maude
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74617:
Boo-I must admit that I have never heard of that!
And living in Phoenix, you think I would have!
Frozen undies tho seem a bit strange, but
then again you Texans are a bit....haha
Hey to TOM, Asa, Big Maude, possum, REV and all!
Be back later,
MDC
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74618: I'm gonna give that bra in the freezer thing a try,Boo!
Maude,you ain't alone.Sometimes I wonder about me too! It wouldn't have anything to us getting ol.. um,more mature,do ya think?! Ha!
**************
possum again
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74619: pOSSUM GETTING NOT YOU, YOU GOING BACK IN TIME TO BEING A KID WHO DID BAN THING.

tom

August 17, 2009 - Msg 74620: Good afternoon, porch. Wow. Lots happening here. hm, I'm sorry to hear about Uncle Ray's passing. Prayers for you and yours, dear heart.

Possum, I can't believe our little Laci is starting kindergarten. You're right, that's going to open up a whole new world for her, and will make her much stronger socially. What an exciting time.

As for Andy and the move to Wyoming, it seems to me that about all you can do now is trust that the Lord will take the situation and turn it into a positive thing. Who knows? That boy might get out there in that Big Sky country and fall in love with it. Let's hope so. Be that as it may, I think your best move now is to cease all objections and try to be as supportive as possible, not only to Andy, but to both his parents as well. If the dad gets out there and sees he has made a mistake, it will be hard to tuck his tail and come home if everyone is still telling him how foolish he was. Take the high road, be supportive and encouraging, be excited for them in their "adventure", and it will be a lot easier for him to just "decide" to return, as opposed to having to admit he did a dumb thing. Could that be what your sister is doing? Did she know she would never have any peace from him until the move was made, so she just decided to go along, let him get it out of his system, and then they could "decide" together to return home? If so, she's smart. This move may broaden Andy's horizons a bit, too. He may find that he loves it out there. Or not - in which case he can always return home in a couple of years. He will be independent soon, or should be, so he can do as he chooses. Either way, a positive approach from those he loves will help him more than anything else right now.

Well, it's awfully hot here, but I think I'll refrain from freezing my drawers. I don't think they'd stay cool long enough be much help. Instead, I think I'll just stay as close to a/c as I can get. I just called Ted and asked him to plan to install a ceiling fan in this room, where my computer is, in front of my big window. I have one in the kitchen, sunroom, den and my bedroom - don't know why I've never put one in here. There will be one soon, though. I spend quite a bit of time here - should have a ceiling fan.

Well, got to work tonight, so guess I'd better hit the shower. Be blessed, friends. --Romeena
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74621: That's a good point, Ro. Possum's bro-in-law may find it hard to come back if he expects an "I told you so" from the family.

We have ceiling fans but don't use them often. I am going to have them in the new house anyways, I guess. I am even putting a couple on each porch. BTW, I was only kidding about freezing the undergarments, but darn if it don't seem like a good idea with the heat we are having (with no relief).

Have to go to bible study at the rehab tonight. Prayers if you read this before 6pm, central time, please.

Boo
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74622:
"SHAKEDOWN!"
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74623: Aint nobody freezing MY drawers....NO...not me..well still busy here at work...any leftover supper? HM prayers..hey possum and boo and asa..Romeena you freeze your drawers?...I did find my cell in the freezer once...still works...back in a bit....SPOT
August 17, 2009 - Msg 74624:
Well hello porch.....nope, I agree with MDC, RO and Spot.....NO frozen drawers for me either.

HM.....prayers for all the family of Uncle Ray. So glad your husband had the time with him.

Possum.....prayers contine for Andy. And for Laci as she takes another big step in life starting school.

kygirl.....those lima beans sure sound good.

Boo....I'm with you...I love okra. I like it fried or boiled. Rather have it boiled.

Mavis....wow, that is terrible. A very dangerous situation.

Tom...Just stay strong and hang in there.

Well gotta get to bed. Night all and know that you all in my prayers.
-REV.


August 17, 2009 - Msg 74625: G'night REV.

Had a wonderful night at the rehab. I will try to tell you more about it in the morning. I am ready to go to bed! Love to All.

Boo

God is so good!
August 18, 2009 - Msg 74626:
Here I am at home writing! One thing I found out
is that each time I log on, it goes thru about 15 minutes of virus scans etc.! But I guess it's worth it.
Anyone know of






















































































































































































































some free virus scans? I got 30 days
free of Trend Micro, but then I have to pay.
Boo- hey, I just thought that if bruce would wear
frozen jockeys, he wouldnt need a cup! haha
OK, I'm off to bed,
The new plugged in MDC.
So does this mean I get a cell phone next? Geez ha
MDC
August 18, 2009 - Msg 74627:
What happened there?
Honest, I didnt do that on purpose!
Maybe Trend Micro not so good, Tonto.
hmmm,
MDC
August 18, 2009 - Msg 74628: Gosh, MDC, are you trying to help us to learn to socialize so we can go to Mrs. Wiley's party this weekend? But I can't see (or hear) your amenities! How do you expect us to learn when you're just mouthin the words like that? sheesh
- Hazel
August 18, 2009 - Msg 74629: Ha! Hazel,you crack me up! Well,perhaps we can at least teach MDC how to come into a room properly!

MDC,I don't think you're ready for a cell phone yet.I think you'd better stick to your party line and just accept the fact that you can't make any phone calls on Sunday when those two old sisters are gabbing away!

Yes,Tom,sometimes I feel like a bad little kid! I'd better start acting my age,don't you think?!

Laci's 1st day of school! Can't wait to hear how things went. I'll let y'all know.

Spot,you and Rev and those frozen drawers- HA!
Well, somehow I ain't too hungry for breakfast after that last comment-y'all go on to the Diner without me!
*******************
possum under a rock
August 18, 2009 - Msg 74630: Oh,just viewed some pics that Laci's mom took wit her cell phone camera- Laci looked like she was enjoying toys and doing great. Think it was harder on us( mom & grandmom possum). I'm glad I wasn't the one to have to walk away from the classroom-y'all parents know how that feels.
************
possum again
August 18, 2009 - Msg 74631: That's WITH,not wit. Think I need to go back to school- ha!
******
possum
August 18, 2009 - Msg 74632: I think MDC is gassed. Longest hiccup I ever did see. LOL

Well Andy has hot knee's and Boo has frozen drawers. It's getting tough to have a whim around here anymore. It ain't a whim if you put on frozen drawers Boo.

Can't believe our Laci is starting school already Possum. Mercy sakes these young-uns grow up fast.

Who ordered the SHAKEDOWN? It made me swallow my gum.

Asa
August 18, 2009 - Msg 74633: Man, you said alot of nothin' there, MDC.;-)

You're so funny ASA.

Well, this is goon be short for now. Erin has been grounded from the computer for a week and now she is off "groundation" and wants to get on Disney website. Be back later...

Boo
August 18, 2009 - Msg 74634: goon??

Boo
August 18, 2009 - Msg 74635: Groundation - I like that word!!!

hm
August 18, 2009 - Msg 74636:
I don't deserve no "ammemimies."
Bad MDC. Sure dont know why that long blank space
happened. Maybe I was showing ya all what's
really between my ears! ha
It must have been my dial-up, and the sisters
with their bad feet messed it up! ha Crazier
than a lake loon! ha
BOO- how was rehab?
Have a good day, prayers,
MDC
August 18, 2009 - Msg 74637: Good morning, porch. Hazel, you are quick, you just make me laugh all the time. Bless you! Asa, you are a caution. Be careful with that gum-swallowing!

Not much to report here - just got to go run some errands. SS class member (Beth) has had shoulder surgery, and I'm taking lunch tomorrow, so need to go to the store today. Another member is making Moroccan chicken (she's from Morocco) and a cake, and I'm taking all the sides. I've never eaten the chicken she makes, but I hear it's fabulous. Wouldn't want to have shoulder surgery to get some of it, though.

Also have to go to the bank, and to the water garden store to exchange a pump. I think I'll take Toye Starr with me, she loves to go, especially to the bank, because the teller at the drive-thru always sends her a treat. I will be within a few blocks of home before going to the grocery store, so can drop her off. My dog isn't spoiled or anything, do you think? Naaah!

Well, be blessed, friends. --Romeena
August 18, 2009 - Msg 74638: Thanks for asking MDC..rehab was just one of those nights that make you so thankful for being able to be a part of those girl's lives. God was there and so tangible and we are seeing hearts changed. One of the groups we met with last night was very serious and had some great questions. There were some tears (mine, also) and some changed hearts, I believe, and some sweet prayer time. One of the girls was talking to us about what the Lord is teaching her about relationships. She said that her dad used to beat her and that when she got older and started punching back, he would tell her, "The bible says that you aren't going to live long because you hit your parent". She has had alot to deal with but has come to the point in her life that she realizes that having God in her life means everything, even if there is nobody else. This is an important realization for these girls because many times, there IS nobody else. Seeing that they are beginning to realize that they have a Father that loves them and will never leave them is a wonderful thing to see. We also had a girl named Dulce who was a beautiful innocent looking girl and began to cry when we were showing a short video and she explained to us that she had never been to church or believed anything about Christianity, and that she had gotten involved with the occult (Santaria, in which spells are cast, etc.) and that she had witnessed the result of that. She said that those teaching the casting of spells intructed her that she could not, ever cast a spell against a Christian, because Christ was greater than all. It made her think, and realize that Christ was real and now she is wanting to start reading her bible. There is a girl named Amy, who the Lord is using among her peers and she is going to begin helping Dulce to study the bible. Good stuff. You all might remember that I mentioned a girl named Michelle a few weeks ago, who was on her own, mom died and so on. She leaves rehab today to begin life down in a type of half-way house. She seems to be very positive and is trusting the Lord. She will leave and start over knowing no one and it will be tough. I am going to try to keep in touch with her in the future. She is really something special. Well, enough of my novel and thank you for your prayers!

Better get back to my chores...break over!

Boo