December 04, 2012 - Msg 91372: The kind that run with the yellow-bellied lake looms of course.....
December 04, 2012 - Msg 91373: That is too bad about the tree, Ro. We are having the same trouble with the outside lights this year. Bruce is still working at it and we usually have everything done by the week of Thanksgiving. What a pain. I would say to just forget it but a party or two here every year and try to make things look festive.

Boo
December 04, 2012 - Msg 91374: Boo, have you tried the Lightkeeper Pro, that little gun that revives lights? It really does work, much of the time. Of course, when it's the wiring, which is what I suspect on these lights, it won't work, but David has really shortened his time with the outside lights. No searching for the "out" bulb - you just connect the thing, pull the trigger, and poof! The lights come on! They're available at just about any hardware store, but definitely at Lowe's and the Depot, for about $20. --Romeena
December 04, 2012 - Msg 91375: Boo, T answer your question that was Cousin Eddy's daughter (I can't remember her name now) that spoke those words to Clark. Speaking of Eddy, don't you reckon he was using a "prop"? (If you get my drift lol)

Ro, you sound just like a commercial for Lightkeeper Pro. LOL

Asa
December 04, 2012 - Msg 91376: Yes Ro...I told Bruce about it yesterday because of what you had shared about it and he bought one. He has been using it. :)

No, Asa, I think "it" was the real deal. ;)

Boo
December 04, 2012 - Msg 91377:
Howdy porch family

Boo....hope Bruce gets those lights fixed up....They can be a pain sometimes:)

Ro....yep...yellow blood. I didn't know what that stuff was until I googled it and found out. They spit it out because it smells bad and of course that helps to protect them. As for as them not hanging around your gardens long....that's because they pack their bags and move to my house here in SC...lol

Well had a wonderful day with my baby girl (daughter) and my wife joined us later this afternoon. Had dinner with both of them along with my future SIL. God is so good!

You all have a goodnight!
Love and prayers
-REV.
December 04, 2012 - Msg 91378: REV, it just warms my heart to hear you talk about your family, and share your joy regarding the new, soon-to-be SIL and all. That's so wonderful. Yes, He is good, all the time.

Just got home from the Women's Christmas Dinner at church. Good food and good fellowship with good friends. All of that, and a top-notch speaker also. Her name is Deb DeArmond, and she just talked about what it means to be Christian, and especially Christian women, in today's world. One of the best speakers I've heard in a long time, and that's saying a lot. Very easy, comfortable style - she just seemed to be visiting with friends, and her points were softly delivered but unmistakable. Very, very good.

Well, guess I'll put in another hour or so on that tree, then I'm going to bed. Tomorrow will be a bit busy. PT first, then to a local elementary school to be a "reading buddy" with a kindergartner, then mail some packages, then home to try to whip this place into some sort of shape. Robbi and Richard will be here Thursday afternoon.

Blessings, everyone! --Romeena
December 04, 2012 - Msg 91379: Rev sounds like you had a great day!,..Got my crosses up and gona put the rest of the lights up Friday..A lady friend of mine and I are gona to go shopping Friday night for my Christmas buying ...have know her for 30 yrs or so..she is so nice to help me!..very nice lady..got to get my tree up...Christmas gathering on my Moms side Sunday after Church...BUNCH on that side...ok...let me get these reports ran here at wk..hey Boo,asa,possum and all....ok...here all night..back in a bit...peace...SPOT
December 04, 2012 - Msg 91380:
REV- I just had to laugh at your line about helping daughter (with wedding stuff i take it) and
then giving blood... so you gave blood, and then gave blood again? haha
SPOT- love those crosses! I remember you had a photo of them on RO's old photo site.
GF--so are they runnin' with the ladybugs or runnin' with me? hee
BOO- yup, I'd do a commercial for lightkeeper pro as well. Darn, why didnt I invent that thing!!
I think I'll take a short video of my house and post it on youtube for ya all to see! (:
Prayers for all...away in a manger...
MDC
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91381: Morning Porch. I trust you all snoozed well.

Boy Ro, that tree must be a labor of love. Sorry you're having all them light problems. Maybe you could do it like the old days when they used candles. Well, on second thought, maybe you better not.

Boo, The real deal, huh? I dunno about that. I dunno that I wanna know though. lol

MDC, be sure you post a link if you go on youtube with your decorations.

Rev, sounds like your enjoying those precious days with your Daughter. Good on ya, but things really are good after they marry. In my case I still take both my girls out on Daddy-Daughter dates every couple of months. Been doing that since they were old enough to remember it, and they still love it, as do I.

Well no skeeters, bats, ladybugs, or wasps here to talk about. Even the one lonely house fly that was hanging around must have met his maker. But they lie in wait for spring.

Asa
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91382: Glad you had a good evening, Ro! Sounds like fun. We have our church ladies annual party/ornament exchange this sunday. I didn't go last year but i will this year...I need to hang with my homies.

Thanks, REV. Bruce (thanks to the help of the lightkeeper pro) has all the lights working and will have everything done by the end of the week, I am sure. He is still working on his lighted balls to hang in the tree. He has been making these balls out of wire and wrapping them in lights to hang in the trees near the house, so for days I have had the fun of saying, "Bruce, I wish you would hurry and get your balls off the floor of the living room!"....hehe...couldn't resist sharing a typical day in the life of the Guenter family.

Asa, now you have me thinking...I am going to have to watch Christmas Vacay again and pay closer attention to Eddy in his leisure suit...it's not something I want to do, but it will bug me until I do. ;)

I got my cards finished last night so will be mailing them today. :)

Better get going...plenty to do.

Boo
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91383: Morning porch, thought I would stop by for a visit
this morning. been busy this week.

My Mom is doing much better. thanks for your prayers.

Raining on my end of the porch this morning. It's not cold, just a little chilly. Hopefully, it will clear up by this afternoon. I need to do some errands at lunch.

We have our tree up and some inside decorations as well. I have done some shopping but have some more to do. seems like I don't stress out about that as much as I used to.Maybe I am getting OLD.

I am working on my Christmas cards as well BOO. Hopefully, I will get them mailed the first of next week. We do Christmas cards at church as well. We have done this for years.. they pass out a list of all the folks who are members and/or who attend regularly. Every family has a number. so you fix the card with the name and corresponding number and pay 25 cents to mail it in the "post office". The "post office" is in the church and ran by the young men (RA's), We can mail a package of cookies or whatever for 25 cents and all the money that is raised goes to the Lottie Moon Missionary Christmas offering, The raise around $2,000 over the course of the month. It is a lot of cards and packages and goes for a great mission project.

lunch will be; chicken or tuna salad sandwhiches, chips and a Mr. Cookie Bar.

Prayers and blessings to all.

Big Maude
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91384: Romeena-new email address for me:abaugh62atgmail. Sorry - thought of that the other night.

Just to catch you a little more up to date - my momma is 88 now and battling that dreadful Alzheimers. She lives in a health care center. A really beautiful place! My dad just moved into the same place except he is in another addition that is more mobile. He has his own fridge, micro, etc and can visit mom anytime he wants. He is now 89.

Been reading the archives - things are popping! We get them dratted ladybugs here but I know there are no spiders to eat them. We don't have a porch for them! :)

My youngest turns 15 today!! I can't be that old already!

hm
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91385: So I guess we will have to start calling you MDC Griswold from now on? I'd like to say I'm gonna run with the "Bulls" but that's a pretty stupid thing to do too getting chased by a bunch of angry Bulls.
Plus ya have to go across the big pond to do that! I think O'l Goob is smarter than that..
(But I guess the jury is still out on that one!)

Asa, I guess man doesn't live by bugs alone in your case..That WD-40 must have REALLY worked good for you!

Boo, Sounds like a really good reality show, now ya just need to come up with a name....
How about: "Guenter-U"...Just make sure my man Bernie gets a staring role....They could put it on right after the "Duck" Boys...I'd watch it..
Let's hope Bruce does'nt start singing.."Great Balls of FIRE!"..ha!...G-F...
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91386:
Morning porch family.....been up early working on songs:)

MDC.....good one brother...I didn't catch the "blood" phrasing when I said that....that's good:)

Happy Birthday to HM's son! Prayers for your mom and dad!

Asa....yep I know we will also still be very close after the wedding doing things together.

Boo....glad Bruce got those lights working.

Maude...so glad to hear your mom is doing much better...continued prayers!

Ro....thanks again so much for sending out the addresses.

Gotta get going. You all have a blessed day!
Love and prayers
-REV.
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91387: Good morning, porch! Mercy, you folks are in a wild and weird mood this morning! This place is always good for a laugh, that's for sure.

Asa, I think that daddy-daughter date night thing is just wonderful, and it's something your daughters will always treasure. Dale used to take our kids out for breakfast, one by one. He'd get up early, slip in and wake whichever one was chosen for that day, and the two of them would go off to a little restaurant he knew that served fabulous breakfasts, and they'd have their own little time together. He took the boys, as well as the girls. I think a lot of good was done during those little breakfasts. Later, he continued the idea whenever he could, with the grandkids.

I made an executive decision and decided to opt out of PT this morning - just so much to get done. I have to do my little "reading buddy" thing at 11:30, though. Can't skip that. Also, got to get the mailing done. I had ordered a beautiful Thomas Kinkade Santa/Nativity from The Bradford Exchange. It came, and it's beautiful, and lights up, but it doesn't speak. It has a feature with (supposedly) Kinkade himself reading the Nativity story, but that part doesn't work. So, I called them. Normally, the plan is you return the damaged one and upon receipt, they send you a replacement. I told the lady how I wanted to have it here and working when my little grandson arrived, and she agreed to ship the new one right away. So, I've got to hold up my end of the bargain, and get the damaged one on its way back. It should really have gone out on Monday, but I just couldn't get it done. So, it goes today!

Heard from Robbi - she and Richard will be here tomorrow afternoon, and I'm under instructions not to try to get all the decorating done before they come, because they "want to help." Uh-huh. They just don't me wearing myself out. Sounds good to me, though. They're both creative, and they're fun and comfortable to work with, so we'll all enjoy it. I'll finish the tree before they come, but the rest of it will be a community project. David will be here tomorrow to get the lights up - that's his personal project, he has it all in his mind and knows how everything goes together, so we'll leave that to him. He does such a good job.

Well, off I go. Got to load up my card table and chairs and take them to Eloise - she needs them for Friday night's bunco party. Lots to do! Blessings, everyone! --Romeena
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91388: Uh, that's "they just don't WANT me wearing myself out." And I proofread, too. Funny how your mind supplies what should be there, even when the eye doesn't actually see it. --Romeena
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91389: Hi All.
It a little cold this morning but nice by this noon it going to rain.
Stepdad is not feeling and he keep falling down and I have a time gitting him up off the floo.
Nun of the family will help or called to see if I uesd help?
REV-
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91390: SORRY FOR THAT.
do not worke so hared.
G F how the hold there going?
Mr.TOM
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91391: Mr. Tom, I'm sorry that you can't count on the family to help you out. That's really too bad. Does your stepdad use a walker? Does he have one? That would probably help keep him from falling. Do you have anyone that comes in to help with him, like a visiting nurse? If not, talk to his doctor and see if they can arrange that. Those people can help you a lot, and can also show you the best ways to handle him when you have to do it by yourself.

It's beautiful here, just 63°, sunny and bright. Makes the leaves look even prettier, with the sunlight coming through them. I love this time of year. I know I've talked about it before, but I really do like it. The weeds have given up for now, the grass is growing very slowly and doesn't clamor for attention, and there's a layer of leaves everywhere, and I don't care! It's fall, there should be leaves! The yard and everything in it is sort of winding down, snuggling in for the winter. Still some diehard flowers blooming, and they look so pretty. It's just such a peaceful, restful time of year, a time of reflection and repose, and anticipation as we await Christmas. I love it!

Well, I'm off to tackle that tree again. Not much more to go on it. Blessings, everyone. --Romeena
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91392: Wow Romeena. That was beautiful. And somewhat like our lives as we near the end of our mortal journey. Everything is sort of winding down, snuggling in for the winter, a peaceful restful time, a time of reflection and repose and anticipation as we await Christ. (And I'll add await our spring, meaning our ressurection)

Asa
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91393: Amen, Asa. You're so right. The signts, sounds and scents of the seasons have always made an impression on me. From time to time, I've written in my little blog about the subject. If you'd care to read more, you can find it here: http://www.romeena-viewsfrommywindow.blogspot.com/

There are other topics there too, of course, but Spring and Fall are addressed. The one about Fall is pretty lengthy, be warned. You know me, I get wound up and don't know when to stop.

Well, back to my tree. I'm coming down the home stretch with it. Maybe when it's finished I'll email a picture to Boo, and she can put it on Facebook. I can't, because I'm not on Facebook! I may have to remedy that. We'll see.

Any, blessings, y'all! --Romeena
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91394:
RO- just a quick thought...they sure dont make things like they used to! Look how long your former tree held up (and apparently still is at son's) yet your two year old "new" one is plagued with problems. So sad! Remember when
good old american-made Zenith TV's jingle was "the QUALITY goes in before the name goes on."
good evening to all,
MDC
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91395: Howdy porch family.....sights of Christmas decribed from the porch is truly a sight. Sure am glad I've got a rocker her on the porch to enjoy it with my porch family:)

Love and prayers
-REV.
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91396:
Tom....you take care and hang in there buddy. I'm sure you get tired of doing all the load but I know your step dad loves you for it.
And your porch family loves you too!
-REV.
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91397: Ok back at wk...just a quickie...Romeena has the new address e-mail went out yet?....ok...hey Rev,Boo,MDC,asa,Boo and all....back in a bit let me get all these comp up and running...SPOT
December 05, 2012 - Msg 91398: Maude, we do the Christmas card/Lottie Moon thing at our church, too, but I stopped participating a couple years ago...just too many to give cards to and it became a major undertaking.

Darn it, Asa! You have to go and write such a sweet and spiritual post after I posted something about Cousin Eddy and Bruce's...ahem...Christmas decorations. (Imagine Foghorn Leghorn here) You're making me look bad, son. ;)

Alright now...since you brought up facebook, Ro...I wish some more of you would get a facebook page. We could share photos and communicate with each other more easily. It wouldn't make you stop coming to the porch...I do both. Okay, that's all I'm going to say about it. Everyone is free to do as they please, of course.

You know MDC, you mentioned Zenith. I remember out first color tv was a zenith and we had that thing forever. It was a great set. They just don't make things like they used to, that's for sure.

So sorry to hear about your situation, TOM. Very hard, indeed. I hope things change for you.

Well, I didn't get my cards mailed today but should tomorrow or the next day.

Think I will shower and go to bed. Its been one of those long, hard days.

Boo


December 05, 2012 - Msg 91399: Spot, check Randycan. It should be there.--Romeena
December 06, 2012 - Msg 91400: Well, good morning, porch! Am I the first one here? Where is everyone? Guess I'll start the coffee for those who drink it. I'll have tea myself.

Wow, have I got leaves in the yard! Around one cottonwood, you can't even see the grass, the leaves are so thick, and the tree just has a few left. The second tree is about half-finished, and the third one is just beginning. The sycamore has only dropped a few. It will hold onto its leaves until everybody else is bare, and the litter cleaned up, then overnight it will drop the whole load all at once. Ornery thing, it's done that for years. Annoying, but kinda funny.

The crape myrtles are completely nude, the pear tree doesn't have many left, and the neighbor's elm (right by the fence) is still showering us with its little arrow-head leaves that are impossible to rake up. We won't rake them, we'll just run over them with the mower and mulch them. I wish I could do that with all of the leaves, but the load is too heavy, it would smother the grass. Eddie will rake or use the blower to just thin them down a little, then will mulch the rest.

It's just 54° out there, but is supposed to warm up to the 70s. Weird weather! David just called, he's on his way to get my outside lights up, so he'll be glad for the mild weather, I'm sure. Bless his heart. He's been on the road, working, all week. Just gets home and has his old mama and his mother-in-law (Eloise) waiting for him to put up their roof lights. He will do it, he'll do it beautifully, and he'll be laughing and joking the whole time, and not one word of complaint. He's a gem. As I love to tell him, having him was the best decision his daddy and I ever made! Hahaha! I also tell him that he was worth every one of the 55 minutes it took to get him into the world. Yep -- 55 minutes from "Uh-oh, wake up, honey, this is it" to "It's a boy!" Dale ran four red lights getting me to the hospital in Waco, and twenty minutes later, David was here. Brittney, who labored eighteen hours to get Landry, just glares at me.

Well, better get dressed, or he'll catch me looking pretty scary. Blessings, everyone! --Romeena
December 06, 2012 - Msg 91401: So David was a joy from the beginning. What a blessing. Its great when your kids get old enough to help you out, and with a good attitude. Sean is like that. He does alot for me and right now he is going over to my sister's twice a week to help my mom and do some cleaning since mom's caregiver just had hip surgery. He's been a big help to my sister. We have so much to be thankful for, don't we. My heart breaks for parents who's children are in crisis over drug addiction or worse. How sad that must be.

It's in the 70's here today and sunny, Ro...at least it's not near 90 like it has been. I'll take it..

I just took the kids to lunch at a local family-style buffet place and we are stuffed. They wanted to go, so I gave in and now wish i hadn't. I sure don't feel like doing all the chores I need to do now. I did get the Christmas cards mailed, so if your name was on the list, you should be getting a card from me soon. It will be the one with the Christmas stickers on it...I just love Christmas sticker. :)

Bruce is taking off from work tomorrow to get the lights finished and I think we will do a little Christmas shopping for the kids. Erin wants an electric scooter and they range from 70 dollars to 300! She will be getting one of the cheaper models. Can't imagine paying 300 dollars for a child's scooter. We set a price limit of 200 dollars each for the kids this year and I am really going to try to stick to it.

Well, better get off my duff and forge ahead.

Boo
December 06, 2012 - Msg 91402:
Good AFternooooooooon! I am subbing today. Since the mister and me are out of work, any little income helps out.

I am subbing for a high school art teacher and it is right up my alley. Love it! I had Casey earlier in the day so I helped him with his project - just a little. :)

I have been a little lazy getting Christmas started this year. Just can't seem to get in the mood for it. But I am hoping to find a cheap tree this weekend and get myself worked into the mood.

It is so fun Ro listening to your stories. You are such a true inspiration to all of us. Always a word of good cheer.

Boo - you need to check out my facebook page (Casey and I are making jewelry and boer goat stuff) - we are called Dirt Road Diva. Casey has become quite good at designing pieces and cutting barbed wire! We make barbed wire stars and crosses. Really beautiful items. We have been lucky to ship to both coasts already and we just really started in September. We are approaching about $500 in internet sales. Not alot but it keeps the wolves from beating down the door :)

Take care for the rest of the day - blessings and prayers to all. Tomorrow I sub teach 7th grade English. (Now that is scary!!)

homemaker
December 06, 2012 - Msg 91403:
Howdy porch family....little cooler here today but supose to warm up again tomorrow in the 70's.
My wife, daughter, future sil and myself are going to a passion play tomorrow. This church has been doing it for 25 years. It is great. It has grown so big that they built a huge building just for this play each year. It's called "This Man Called Jesus" at Lake Murray Baptist Church...you google it and read all about it. They do it for 3 weekends and draw around 36,000 people in those 3 weeks. The building holds 2700 people.

Ro....when you mentioned David....I agree...he'll be joking and cutting up the whole time he's hanging the lights. So glad I got to spend a little time with him and his family during my last visit.

Homemaker....will be praying that you continue to get called to do the subbing in the classes you enjoy:)

You all have a goodnight!
Love and prayers
-REV.
December 07, 2012 - Msg 91404: Yea Boo the FB thang is good when used right...I love it...hey Rev....prayers TOM..hey HM,possum,asa,MDC,auh20 and all...sure seems like we are missing so many poarchsters...well so far so good here at work..took tomorrow night off...gona try to get some shopping done...will be off till monday night...got Moms side of the familys Christmas party Sunday afternoon...BIG croud on that side..well Romeena did I miss the new address list?...I have not checked my Yahoo mail today...let me go do that...hope I still got the old one if I somehow missed it...ok...let me run some reports...prayers to all...SPOT
December 07, 2012 - Msg 91405: OK Romeena just seen the post above...Thanks girl...SPOT
December 07, 2012 - Msg 91406: Spotty, I forwarded the list to you,so stop worrying Ro-LOL

Hope everybody has a great day-love to all!

*******************
possum under a rock
December 07, 2012 - Msg 91407: Good morning everyone. . .
A little foggy here this morning and rainy too. There was a plane crash on Sunday nite due to foggy conditions in our little neck of the woods. The funeral is today. I thought of the Steve Warner song - Holes in the Floor of Heaven. The two couples that perished in the plane crash leave a total of 6 children behind. Very sad. . .

Did I mention that 7th graders are a little squirrely? We also had a two hour delay today and it has really thrown them off schedule. (So I am subbing today.) Monday I will float from classroom to classroom in two hour blocks. That will be fun - no one group for toooo long! The days of popping in a video when there is a sub are long gone - esp. in Indiana.

Remembering those veterans today on the anniversary of Pearl Harbor. Peace to all and blessings as well - I am sure there are many unvoiced prayers as well - may God be with all of you today.

HM
December 07, 2012 - Msg 91408: Hey Homemaker. Good to see you here. Rainy and foggy here also. And there was a plane crash here a week or so ago. Took them several days to find it because of the mountainous terrain. They didn't have a locater. Sadly a man, a woman and a 6 year old girl perished in that one.

December 7th, a day to never forget.

Asa
December 07, 2012 - Msg 91409: Asa, The History Channel just had a good special about the attack on Pearl Harbor. I've seen it before but it was a good program as a time line before during and after the attack. Also TCM just had Tora,Tora,Tora on too. I really enjoy all the History stuff and I'm really thankful for their service to our Country.
SALUTE! To all the Veterans on this Remberance Day...

Boo, If you get a electric scooter does Bernie get a basket to ride in?
Better yet try this...It will be fun and cheaper.
get some wood,paint & rollerskate wheels and let them build their own, and paint it they way they like it. You don't need electricity just use the resorces you have, you already have 4-10 power What's that you ask?... Four feet 10 miles per hr.
Have Thelma Lou tow them around! We use to build wood go-carts and have the neighbors St. Bernard tow us around no body had any Greyhounds so the ride was slow...(just trying to help!)

G-F....
December 07, 2012 - Msg 91410: Sorry I haven't been by the porch today...been one of those busy days so common this time of year.

I took dinner to mom tonight and as we were talking, she reminded me of something that happened in the 80's that I had forgotten about. It is a story that I think you all would enjoy and I have never shared. We usually share a christmas memory on the porch each year..
Well, I will tell you the story without embelishment of any kind and you can decide for yourselves whether you believe in angels or not. :) Back in the 80's I had a widowed aunt named Virginia who came down from Michigan to spend the month of December with us each year. One December she and my mom were at the Christian service center where mom volunteered. It was a place where folks down on their luck could come to get food and clothing at certain hours during the week. On this particular day, mom was there to be on duty for the crisis hotline so it was quiet and just she and Aunt Virginia were in the building. A young woman came in asking if they had any Christmas decorations that she could have because she wanted to put a tree up for her children and they had no money. My mom told her she could have the few decorations that they had and she took her to the back room to find them. Soon a man who looked to be in his 30's came in about the time mom was coming out of the back with the woman. The man looked at my Aunt Virginia and asked, "Do you know who I am?"...she replied, "No, I don't remember ever meeting you."...He said, "That's strange since I have known you all your life". He went on to ask them if there is anyone he could help. Mom explained the situation with the young woman and the man pulled a large roll of bills out of his pocket and gave it to the woman and left. After he walked out and closed the door, my mother said that my Aunt Virginia went to the window and he was gone. They couldn't see him anywhere after he closed the door. He was never seen again by my mother and she believes he was an angel sent to help the young woman. What do you think? Curious, isn't it?

Anyone else have a story to share?? :)

Boo
December 08, 2012 - Msg 91411: Boo, I am not one to readily buy into stories of the "supernatural", as a rule. However, I would never doubt the word of your mother or your aunt, nor would I doubt the power of our Lord to use supernatural means to help someone. After all, what is "supernatural" to us, is simply "natural" to Him. We will never know who or what that man was, but he did no harm, he provided help when it was needed, and I have no problem believing he was sent by God.

Some may question - why all the mystery? Why didn't the man just walk in and say he was sent from God, hand the woman the money and then vanish in a puff of smoke, before their eyes? Why does there always seem to be room for questioning, or doubt? I think I know. If concrete evidence exists, or proof is provided, then there is no room for faith. All through the Bible, God makes it clear that He wants us to come to Him by faith. We have to trust, and make a choice, following Him by simple faith. Hard proof would reduce us to puppets, and that's not what He wants. Well, that's the way I see it, anyway.

Robbi and Richard have gone over to Dallas to spend the night with some of his family, but will be back around noon tomorrow. Right now, I'm about to put myself and my sweet puppy to bed, and get a good night's rest. I'm very tired, every joint aches, and I think I need some rest. Sleep - another one of God's blessings! --Romeena
December 08, 2012 - Msg 91412: Very insightful, Ro! I absolutely agree.

I am up at 6am on a Saturday, unfortunately. Woke up with a stomach ache...not a bad one, just enough to get me out of bed. I have a funeral to attend this morning for a friend's dad so I will just stay up. Hopefully, I will be able to grab a nap this afternoon.

It was in the 80's again yesterday and will be through the weekend but supposed to get some much cooler temperatures next week and then back up to mid-80's by Friday. I was hoping for cold weather through next weekend. We have the annual deacon's christmas party here on Friday and I was really hoping to be able to put a nice fire in the fireplace. Oh well.

Yesterday I ran into my old friend Cynthia in the store. She is the childhood friend we have prayed for before here on the porch. She had stage 4 breast cancer diagnosed over a year ago and has certainly been through the wringer! She was very thin but had about an inch of hair on her head, which was a great thing to see. For now, all her chemo and radiation is completed and she told me that if it comes back, she will not go through it again, but accept her fate. She is no longer able to do her dog grooming job anymore and has applied for disability. I certainly hope she is able to get it. She has a 14 yr old daughter that she is raising as a single parent. Please say a prayer for her that she can get the help she needs. She is a person of dignity and for her to apply for government assistance, she is in a desperate state, believe me.

Well, guess I will finish my coffee and migrate to my chair. :)

Boo
December 08, 2012 - Msg 91413: Good morning, porch! Well, I guess I was more tired than I realized last night. I set the ADT alarm, because Robbi and Richard weren't coming home, they were staying with his family last night. I turned on the TV, got in bed and fell asleep almost immediately. About an hour later, I woke up when Toye Starr barked a couple of times. I noticed that the "on" light on the ADT panel was not on, indicating that the alarm had been turned off. I knew very well that I had set it. Between that and the barking, I was a little uneasy, so I got up. Starr ran to the bedroom door, barking and sniffing beneath the door. Someone was out there. I knew there was a remote possibility it was my kids, but still, I picked up my pistol and went back to the door, standing a little to one side. About that time the phone rang. Ah, Robbi is calling to let me know it's them. No - it was ADT, asking if I was okay. I answered, "I don't know yet, but I'm standing here with a pistol in my hand just in case!" About that time, I could hear Robbi calling out, "Mom, Mom, it's us! Don't shoot us!" She had heard my response to ADT, over the answering machine, which hadn't shut off yet, so she knew I had the gun! They were standing back in the den, where they would be out of the line of fire, at least until I came into that room. Of course, I then told ADT I was okay, gave them the security code, and all was well.

Now here's the scary part. Robbi had called me to let me know they were coming home. I never heard the call, though the phone is two feet from where I was sleeping. When they had opened the kitchen door, the alarm had sounded. Big, shrieking siren coming from the front hallway. Also, the alarm keypad in my room would have been squealing, enough to wake the dead. Robbi had keyed in the code, which shut it off, but didn't know she had to enter "cancel" as well, so ADT called. Here's the scary part. I had heard absolutely none of this. The first sound I heard, the thing that woke me, was Toye Starr's little bark. I slept through the phone call, that howling alarm, the squealing, chirping keypad, all of that racket! It was a little "woof" from my tiny guardian that woke me.

Well, at least we learned some things. We learned that ADT responds promptly. We learned that I don't emerge from my bedroom with gun blazing, but am armed and ready if the situation is threatening. We learned that I apparently remain cool and don't over-react. I mention those things because they have been points of concern for me. Having that gun is a big responsibility. I've always thought I would handle it properly, but was not sure. I do know now that if it had been someone else in the house, if my daughter's voice had not reached me, calling my name, I would have been prepared to take the intruder down. I feel a bit more secure now. We learned one more thing, too. Don't ever enter Mom's house unexpectedly. Call from the driveway, even if it takes ten calls to wake me, because Mama - she packs a gun! Hahaha!

Well, maybe I'll go start some coffee for the kids. I don't drink it, but they do. It has been so much fun having them here. Richard put out my lighted deer in the back yard yesterday, and I'll scatter some twinkles back there today. Robbi and I will finish the inside stuff, in about an hour or two, and then we'll just sit back and enjoy the atmosphere of Christmas. Some carols on the player, good conversation, and just a lovely time of being together. God is good. --Romeena
December 08, 2012 - Msg 91414: Romeena...Sorta scary but sorta funny story too! You just gave me (and the ADT operator)a mental picture of the event.....
Here's this lady with her little dog shivering at her feet while "Mom" was in her robe holding her S/W 357 Magnum, in her best "Dirty Harry" impression.."GO AHEAD PUNK MAKE MY DAY!"..only this could happen in Texas! Ro now we can for sure refere to you as a pistol-packin Mama..ha

REV Take Notice...If you are back to Romeena's neck of the woods ya just may not want to just pop-in on her, I'm just say'in....She pack'in and I don't mean a bag of samiches!!

Also you're gone'a scatter some twinkies for the Deer?...Better put my glasses on..Oh..spread some twinkles..That's better cause those "Twinkies" are getting hard to find now that they quit makin-em!.....

Romenna ya "Made My Day" with that story THANKS!

G-F... :)
December 08, 2012 - Msg 91415:
Howdy porch family

Ro....lady I'm proud of the way you handled that situation. You know you and I have talked about being armed and ready...and you proved that you are!

G-F...believe me from all my visits there I know better cause I know what she's pack'in....and she don't even have to be a cracker jack shot to hit the target with what she is pack'in:)

Well the wife and I had another wonderful day out together. We ended the evenning with dinner at Cracker Barrel...we had the Haddock fish dinner. If you've never had that at CB...it is SO very good.

Well you all have a good night and a Jesus filled worship day tomorrow.
Love and prayers
-REV.
December 08, 2012 - Msg 91416: Ha,Ha, REV, I rest my case!! Does she call her Heater Roscomeena? That's what I'm thinking...
G-F
December 08, 2012 - Msg 91417: Roscomeena? That's pretty funny! No, G-F, it's more like "Here come da Judge!" REV is right, even a poor shot can hit something with the Judge, but as it happens, I'm not a poor shot, I'm actually a pretty good one! Maybe not a crackerjack shot, but not too shabby. Comes from living in the country as a kid. I used to shoot cans with my brother's .22 rifle, but had very little experience with a pistol. I hadn't done any shooting at all in years until I got that pistol, so wasn't sure about it. My son took me to a firing range (I think he wanted to be sure I wasn't going to hold it backward and shoot myself) and it turns out I still remember. He was pretty pleased with what I could do. With the paper target about 30 feet downrange, I put a hole in its face, chest and belly. My son said "I think you got him, Mom." I'm glad, because if I can't use if effectively, I don't want the thing. I pray I never have to use it, but if threatened, I will.

REV, I'm glad you're having some peaceful, enjoyable "home" days with your family. You've earned it, and I know your "girls" are enjoying it too, not to mention little Jake. I'll bet he's glad to have Pappy home!

Robbi and Richard told me something about Toye Starr that is just a bit pitiful. I had heard little stories of this before, from Deanna, after she has stayed with her, but thought she might have just been trying to make me feel good, telling me how Starr misses me. Well, according to Robbi, the poor little thing sits in the utility room, near the door to the garage, and mourns. She swings her head down, then sort of sweeps it back up and at the highest point, she makes a little "O" with her mouth and makes a high, soft, sad little howl. She'll wait a minute, then do it again, and this goes on for quite a while. That just breaks my heart! I had no idea the little rascal missed me that much. I hate the thought of going back to work, after I've been with her night and day these past few months. Bless her sweet little heart!

Well, guess I'll get comfortable. Just got home from the Christmas music presentation at church. Rob and Richard are with his family, but will be home in a little while. I haven't eaten, so will have some of Robbi's good chicken salad, and some grapes, and a big old glass of tea. Yum! Blessings, everyone! --Romeena


December 08, 2012 - Msg 91418: Ro, I'm a real good shot, too, and that's all I'm sayin'. You can't grow up in Texas and not know how to shoot. I am glad to know you are prepared to protect yourself but it makes me a little uneasy that you didn't wake when the alarm sounded.

Ro I forbid you to leave Starr for any more trips! From now on you must only plan trips that you can take her on... well, you know I'm kidding, but that is so very sad. In her little puppy mind, she doesn't know when her mama is coming home. If I am not mistaken, wolf pups howl that way when they are lost and calling their moms to find them. Too sad.

Well, I feel the Christmas season revving up now and there is much to be done. I hope I am up to the task. Some of it will be alot of fun and some of you will be happy to know that I have hired a woman to help me clean before our party next week. She is a lady I met when I was helping people fill out applications for the toy drive. Turns out her trailer burned in November and she lost everything. She said she is trying to find work as a cleaning lady and I got her number. I am supposed to pick her up on Thursday since she doesn't have a car. Its the first time I have ever hired help for anything and this way I will be helped and so will she. Can't beat that deal.

Bruce and I took the kids to look at some lights tonight but not much to see around here. Seems like alot of folks don't do lights anymore.

Better get a shower and get to bed. Preachin' tomorrow!

Boo
December 08, 2012 - Msg 91419:
Boo's story reminded me of one that I dont think I have ever told here because it actually regards my sister who lives near El paso TX.
Each year, she, her husband and others from their church go to Juarez on Christmas Day with
turkey, ham and all the fixings, and set up tables near the town dump to feed people who actually sadly pick thru the trash there for sustinance.
Well, a few years ago during the event there was an unusually large crowd, and she said that they were getting very concerned because they could see that they would definitely run out of food
before all could be fed. The turkeys were down to the bones, as well as the hams, with very few slices remaining. Well, suddenly behind them one of the workers dropped a whole load of empty metal food trays creating a loud crashing sound.
Everyone turned to look! But when they turned back around there sat a nearly whole turkey and a nearly whole ham. They asked those in line who did it, but everyone said that they didnt know because they too were looking in the direction of the banging, falling pans!! Angels?
Who knows, but there was plenty of food for everyone for everyone! It is even documented in a book and was also in Guidepost's "His Mysterious Ways" segment.
Well, I'm off to watch the tags Christmas ep.
Peace and Prayers,
MDC
December 09, 2012 - Msg 91420: Neat story, MDC! Thanks for sharing it.

Darn if i didn't wake up at 5am after having a scary dream...a really strange one. I dreamed that I was outside and I heard Bruce yell, "Oh no, what happened to her?!" and rushed over to where he was and there was Thelma Lou, our donkey standing at our back fence and she was covered with bloody gashes all over her neck and side. I woke up and tried to go back to sleep but then I started thinking about all I have to do in the next 3 weeks and got anxious. I did it to myself again before I even knew what was happening. I now officially have too much on my plate again. I had to get up and get my coffee and start making "to-do" lists and menus and shopping lists. I haven't even done any of my christmas shopping yet...!

Well, might as well not worry about it now. One prayer request, please...I am taking Sean back to the doctor this week and we need to discuss what med we can try for his stomach trouble. Please pray the the doc is wise and open to trying something that might help Sean.

Better git to preaching!

Boo
December 09, 2012 - Msg 91421: Boo & Romeena, There was no doubt it my mind that you both know the working end of a gun! I think that is a givin for Texas girls...They are tougher than a "Diamond Jim's" beef roast..ha

Boo...Just a thought as to the reason Romeena didn't wake up, maybe she has visions of sugar plums dancing in her head..Ya never get to old for the Joys of Christmas..That's what I'm thinking...G-F...
December 09, 2012 - Msg 91422: Boo..You poped in before I hit the post button, When you were discribing being anxious I thought you were talking about Mrs.G-F, That girl is the QUEEN of lists. I got mine from her today so off I go to deal with the Wal-Martian's...It's a FUN day as Andy would say..ha!...G-F
p.s. Prayers for Sean....
December 09, 2012 - Msg 91423: Good heavens, Boo, what a horrible dream! Have there been some animal cruelty cases in your area, that might have put such a thing in your mind? That would wreck my sleep too!

G-F, I guess you're right, we Texas girls are pretty tough when we have to be, and while we're sympathetic to the needs of others, and will probably hand over anything that someone needs and asks for politely, we don't take kindly to having it just taken from us. As for a personal attack, well - not a good idea. I would like to clear up one thing, though. Unlike what you would naturally assume, Toye Starr was not shivering at my feet. In fact, she is a liability because she's not afraid. She was scratching at the door, and if I had opened it, she would have gone charging out toward whoever was there. An intruder would just kick her in the head, and then I'd have to kill him - no question. So, now that I know she'll do that, next time (if there is a next time, I hope not) I'll toss her in the closet before I investigate the problem.

Well, the kids are stirring around, Im all showered and dressed, so guess I'll go see what the plan is. Church services this morning will be the same musical presentation I saw last night, so we'll be staying home this morning. A great time to just relax, enjoy the "Christmas House", and each other. They are such pleasant company. Richard is so kind and considerate, both to Robbi and to me, and I'm delighted to have him as one of my own.

Blessings, friends! --Romeena
December 09, 2012 - Msg 91424: Ro, I should have figured being a Texas female dog I should have put 2+2 together..ha
Tell Tory Starr please accept my apology for the assumption..:)
G-F....
December 09, 2012 - Msg 91425: G-F, there's another trait for which Texas girls are known. We forgive easily, when we receive a sincere apology. As you pointed out, Toye Starr is a Texas girl, so you can consider yourself forgiven. --Romeena
December 09, 2012 - Msg 91426:
Spot....well the Flacons just couldn't do it today. Some good football games today...close one's.
-REV.
December 09, 2012 - Msg 91427: Hey porch!

How are y'all?

I haven't received an updated Christmas card list. Can someone email it to me?

Hope everyone has a great week!

Blessings,
Lucy

PS. PH, do you know of another YouTube channel to get TAGS? The old one deleted them all.
December 09, 2012 - Msg 91428: Howdy, porch! Lucy, you were included in the original list that I sent it to. Can't imagine what happened, but no problem. I just sent it to you again. Be watching, and if you don't get it, email me. Maybe I have your address wrong. I don't think so, because the first one didn't come back to me, but who knows?

Well, it's all done around here, thanks to Robbi and Richard. All outside lights are in place, powered and on timers. The tree is complete and lovely, if I do say so myself. The Nativity is n display and is beautiful. How could it be otherwise, considering the subject? The rest of the house has an elf or a teddy bear or some little critter either hanging from something, snuggled up to something, or perched on something. It looks like the Christmas House, for sure. Little Trip is going to be bug-eyed when he arrives in a couple of weeks.

I have a collection of gold-plat4ed ornaments, about thirty of them, collected one by one a number of years ago, from (I think) The Hamilton Collection. Maybe Bradford Exchange, but I think Hamilton. Anyway, I've never displayed them satisfactorily. They get lost on the big tree, and nothing else has worked. Robbi took one look and said "Just fill a green wreath with them, Mom." I did, and it's so pretty. All it needed was someone with a fresh idea. The pieces are so original - a tricycle, a station wagon with a tree tied on the top, a cuckoo clock, Noah's ark, just such as that. The detail is very intricate and precise, and they're so pretty, that I'm delighted to have them finally displayed properly.

Well, I think we're ordering Chinese, so guess I'd better go put in my order! Blessings, everyo9ne! --Romeena
December 09, 2012 - Msg 91429:
Rev-Cards loss of 53-0 not exactly close, nor very pretty! wow, do we need to get back to the drawing board!
POSSUm- do you by any chance belong to that Possum Lodge up Canada way??? haha
Hope all had a good sabbath. Prepare ye the way of the Lord!
HOMEmaker--prayers for Casey, and whole family!!!
Big Maude, son coming home for Christmas??
Hey to SPot, GF, ASA and all.
APB FOR AUH2O!!!

mdc
December 10, 2012 - Msg 91430: Good Monday morning porch.
Got some cold on my porch this morning with snow expected anytime. Let the whining commence. :)

Boy MDC, That Cards game was a stinker. What on earth is going on with them boys? I still think Wisenhut is a good coach, but he seems to have lost the team. Quite a few upsets yesterday for sure. 3 weeks in the regular season. It's getting down to the nitty gritty.

Glad you got your decorating all done Ro. Now you can sit back, relax and enjoy it.

Boo, I pray for y'all's troubles with Sean, and that they can get a treatment that will be effective for him.

I watched the TAGS Christmas episode over the weekend. Good episode. Will Wright sure made a good Ben Weaver.

Gotta get rolling. Starting a few big jobs the next couple of days thats gonna keep me right busy for a spell.

Prayers for all.

Asa