September 18, 2013 - Msg 94766: now.
See here G-F to late ben bust it
I have spy keeping a watch on us to guys so I no everything you do.
now back to work the busess is coming.

Mr Sgt TOM

September 18, 2013 - Msg 94767:
Howdy porch family.....back home for a short stay...nice and cool here in SC. Sure is nice to be home for a short time before heading back out for a long tour.

Sgt Tom...nice sweep there buddy. Did you learn that in the army?...lol

Spot...our Braves gotta get a couple more games to sew it up. Winning right now 4-2 in the 7th.

Ro....will be seeing you in a few weeks....can't wait. Tell Toye Starr I'll have my play clothes on:)

Well my daughter is loving me now....she has been wanting to get a couple of the rockers from Cracker Barrel so I went today and got her two and put them on her porch. She thinks I'm the best...for now anyways...lol.

Well gang I'm tired so I'm heading to bed early tonight. You all have a goodnight's sleep.
Love and prayers
-REV.
September 18, 2013 - Msg 94768: Aye Aye Sgt TOM or should I say Yes Sir Sgt TOM.
There has been too much lollygagging around here and Sgt Tom is the guy who can restore order. He deserves a medal.

Thanks to everyone for the welcome back.

from Poor Horatio
September 19, 2013 - Msg 94769:
G-F-- maybe Tom is part Navajo, so be careful! (:
Hey, I just thought of something, maybe YOUR name is a code, and you are really Glen Ford! ha
You been Glen Fordin' all over town?
Maude, good to see you. Mr M must be a pharmacist huh? If I get a shot at a drugstore,
its gonna be one of those "short needle" kind, not a nurse Mary kind. lol
Prayers,
MDC
September 19, 2013 - Msg 94770: Well, this lousy cold kept me off the porch today but wanted to check in before bed.

How nice of you to buy the rockers for your daughter, REV. She will cherish them, I'm sure.

Not up to alot of conversation tonight...tomorrow will be better. :)

Boo
September 19, 2013 - Msg 94771: It's morning Boo. Commence conversing! :) Hope you get feeling better soon. And if you ain't gonna be envious of my cooler temps, I'm gonna quit bragging on them. Boy, you're taking all the fun out of it. (j.k. sweetie) 45 this morning. Ain't been that cool here since May. Did y'all see that big bright moon last night? Beautiful.

Hey GF, I suppose we could attempt code talk, but old Sarge seems pretty wise. I suspect if he don't already know it, he'd crack the code pretty quick. But we gotta do something or them fungirls is gonna leave for greener venues. You got any ideas?

Good to see you Rev. What a nice thing to buy your Daughter. Now you're gonna have to buy her a small table with a checker board.

I'm with you MDC. Short needles will do just fine.

Guess I better get moving. Gonna be nice to have it cooler.

Prayers for all to have a great day.

Asa
September 19, 2013 - Msg 94772: Hi All.
Going to be a nice warm day here.
Asa the fun girl can get you in trouble with your wife, if she see you with them.
HP the two boy want to have a party at Romeena wind she was gong and I stop them from it and had them in jail to she came home, so every sense G-F had call me SGT..

Sgt TOM

September 19, 2013 - Msg 94773: Party at Romeena's? (:
September 19, 2013 - Msg 94774: no PARTY AT ROMEENA
I'M WATCHING

SGT TOM

September 19, 2013 - Msg 94775: Asa....As far as the fun girls....The straight and narrow path for the Goob.. $%&#@=*&%@!?":*+%&3$38&6+#@&6 ;) ok?
You have to use the HVAC service manual code book in order to decode that one ;)

REV, Are those "HIS" & "HERS" rockers? You know they also sell those "little" ones for those little porchsters ;) or is that to soon yet?
Ya needed to get "Possum" to autograph them too.

MCD,Asa,TOM,REV,SPOT,ect. I got a good deal on some Cleveland Browns "Trent Richardson" jerseys, they are going real cheap around here today, as I told TOM:
"Same story just a different year"...I think I'll cheer for the Austrian Boys Choir this year!

G-F.....
September 19, 2013 - Msg 94776: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SC1GfEXjaBU

Go Boys Go - Sing Boys Sing.... GO TEAM!!
How's that! for teamwork?
G-F again....
September 19, 2013 - Msg 94777: G-F I may be from Cleveland but do not like the Brown!
I going with the pitsburgh for the team

TOM

September 19, 2013 - Msg 94778: Party at TOM'S! (:
September 20, 2013 - Msg 94779: Yea Rev they gave one away in washington (braves that is)...we will be fine...well tonight is my week end...off at 6am and then off till monday night..I think My friend Miss Martha and I are gona ride up to the mts in the jeep..top off and doors off...kinda let the wind blow thru our hair ...ya know ..ha ha..hey Boo,Romeena,TOM,G-F...well let me get reprts ran and will be back with a snack...prayers....SPOT
September 20, 2013 - Msg 94780: Don't worry Asa, I am still jealous of your cooler temperatures...I am just trying not to let on... ;)

Feeling a bit better but now have a tummy ache from the @dvil I took to help me feel better...funny how that works...exchange one misery for another. I am doing much better, though.

Better go to bed and get some rest.

Boo
September 20, 2013 - Msg 94781: Hi All
O K who gong to come a clean up this mess here from that party!
G F the guy nextdoor want his firewood back.

SGT TOM

September 20, 2013 - Msg 94782: Party at TOM's? He's serving "Bread" & Water! No Peanut & Butter in prison remember....Fun & games will include:
Jumping Rope
Deputy Inspections
"Shakedowns"
Sobriety Tests
Rehabilitation crafts, Leather,Metal,Woodworking and Mr. Potato Sets....
Quick Drawing
Prisoner Maximum Security training (keys in the drawer) not the peg on the wall by the cell door!

It will be a FUN time, better than taking your Mother-in-Law shopping....
I don't know about you guys, but I want the Mr. Potato set!

G-F.....
September 20, 2013 - Msg 94783: now now G-F a little beer ,wine and some chips!
For Asa and you some kissing games
we will fun doing thing .
No Mr Potato that kids suff

SGT TOM


September 20, 2013 - Msg 94784: Now,TOM....I thought Mayberry was dry! We don't want the Revenuers' showing up now do we!
No Mr. Potato set? Well at least do I get the mosaic tile set then?

SPOT, be careful runnin' with you "Top off,& "Drawers off", could be sorta dangerous, like going commando in a pond of snapping turtles ;) Oh...sorry that's..."DOORS off"..I think the devil was coming outa my finger tips whilst I was typing! See even Andy & Barney had trouble with the "door" & "drawer" thing...(I'll stay over after preach'n this Sunday ok?)
Lord, I apologize.....

G-F again....
September 20, 2013 - Msg 94785: Having a great time. Third day on road, will reach Peoria this afternoon, then board paddlewheeler tomorrow. More later. Sent from my phone. --Romeena
September 20, 2013 - Msg 94786: Now G-F Mayberry is a dry but you no now people are with moons .
No toy at this party it all up people stuff.

TOM

September 20, 2013 - Msg 94787:
Howdy porch family

Ro......have fun on your trip!

Will be leaving in the morning for my concerts this weekend so may not get to check back in until Monday. Ya'll behave and don't let that party get out of hand now.

You all have a great weekend!
Love and prayers
-REV.
September 21, 2013 - Msg 94788: SHAKEDOWN!
September 21, 2013 - Msg 94789: Hi
If you want a shake some one hand and be come a friend to him

September 21, 2013 - Msg 94790: Have fun, RO...bring us back something! ;)

Well, I am over my cold for the most part and feeling ok this morning. Yay. I actually sat at the computer last night for 4 hours and worked on the pharmacology portion of the nursing course I am taking. Much to my surprise, I really enjoyed it. I was actually having fun calculating dosages..amazing. I am a math=phobe but am discovering that my brain is still functioning. :)

Its been raining here off and on since last night. We had a nice little lightening show and some thunder, too. I love it! Just can't wait for those cooler temperatures. Of course I had a dream last night that millions of mosquitos were swarming my front door, which will probably happen in a couple of days. ;)

Hope you all are having a find Saturday.

Boo
September 21, 2013 - Msg 94791: 2 Aspirin every 4 hrs, 2 Tylenol every 6hrs, or 1 Aleve every 12 hrs....Depends what drug Co. ya wanna believe Boo. We all know your brain is still functioning...Good to hear that you "still got it"! **Better have the Bats ready to go after all that rain.**
I hope Romeena brings back some good stories from her trip. I'm making some apple cobbler ya'll want some? I need Ice cream to go with it...

G-F...
September 21, 2013 - Msg 94792: Just checking in, Porch friends. Actually, I was looking for Romeena, but I guess she's on a trip. Does anyone know when she's to return? She was writing a story for me for publication, and I didn't get her revision. : ) Lost my mama suddenly on Aug. 21. Has been sad time for me. She died suddenly after a stroke following a, what we had believed to be, successful surgery. She was only 72. We were very close, and I'm an only child. Thanks for listening, Porch friends. Sorry I don't come by to sit very often. My best to you and yours,
Charlotte Tucker
September 21, 2013 - Msg 94793: Hi
All.
Will it ben raining here all day :(
Charlotte Tucker to heard of you lost my prayer for you and the family.
Last year in Dec I lost my stepdad from cancac.

TOM

September 21, 2013 - Msg 94794: Well mercy sakes Charlotte Tucker it is so good to see you. I'm so sorry to read about your Mom. II takes time to deal with that kind of loss. My prayers are with you and yours. Yes, Ro is on a trip but it looks like she has a smartphone with her so you might be able to e-mail her if need be.

Glad you're liking your stud ies BOo. And glad feeling better.

Guess I'll turn on the tube and watch some college football.

Asa
September 21, 2013 - Msg 94795: Oh this stupid touch screen kindle. Haha,I meant to say your stdies. Not your stud. Lol

Asa
September 21, 2013 - Msg 94796: Oh for heaven's sake. I h old you ain't got stds BOO.
I have got to get a computer quick before you all think I'm nuts

Asa
September 21, 2013 - Msg 94797: I quit!
September 22, 2013 - Msg 94798: BAHAHAHAHAAAA...Give up, Asa.

So good to see you on the porch, Charlotte Tucker, but so very sorry about your mom. That has got to be terribly hard. My prayers for you tonight, that the Lord would bring you comfort and healing.

Boo
September 22, 2013 - Msg 94799: Hi All.
Will look like mother nature has come to pain thing for the fall color.
G-F how the Indin doing?
I no the brown are playing bad at the two game but thing can chan

Sgt TOM

September 22, 2013 - Msg 94800: Sarge, The Indians are holding on to a chance as a "Wild Card" but they MUST keep winning..As far as the Browns, same story...I don't watch them they just get my B-P up!

Asa you need a bigger Kindel or smaller fingers is what I'm thinking.

O-H-I-O State big win yesterday, but when are they going to start to play the "Big Boys"? Right guys?
I like college FB better than the Pro's. They are (not as full of themselves) Yet!

G-F....
September 22, 2013 - Msg 94801: hey
G-F I see the Brown won the game today

Sgt TOM

September 22, 2013 - Msg 94802: Hold the phone Sarge and GF. The Browns trade their best player on Thursday and then respond with a win today. I'll be flat dogged. And them Bengals look pretty tough too. I reckon you Ohions know football.

Sure been a nice Sabbath here. We blessed our new Granddaughter at Church and then had a nice family dinner afterwards. The weather was perfect with the temperature in the mid 60's. I'm hoping the night time lows stay above freezing for a couple of more weeks so I can have my tomatoes all ripen up. And it's about this time of year the potatoe farmers start selling their fifty pound bags of big fresh baking spuds for twenty bucks. They are fantastic and a sack will last us till past the new year.

Well I best get thinking about the ironing board. Early day tomorrow.
Prayers for all.

Asa
September 23, 2013 - Msg 94803:
Good Sabbath to all. Charlotte, I am so sorry to hear of your mother's passing. May God be with her and all your family. Please come back when you feel up to it. That's what we're here for.
ASA- your last "transmission" was much better! ha
For those of you not on FB, I wanted to let you know that the Catholic high school that we all went to honored my baby sister for her nearly 40 years of working with the poor around El Paso, and preaching the gospel to them. She was so humbled in receiving the recognition. Each year they induct a former grad into their "hall of fame," and this year she got it!
Hope all goes well with RO and her gal friends.
Prayers for all,
MDC
September 23, 2013 - Msg 94804: Happy Monday porch, checking by from work this morning. A beautiful cool and sunny morning on my end. Fall is definitely in the air around here. the leaves are starting to turn colors.

I have been watching some football games. watched the Titans and Vols this week end and hope to watch the broncos tonight.

better get to work. lots of folks to see today.

Prayers and blessings to all.

Big Maude


September 23, 2013 - Msg 94805: Hey Maude !..and MDC,Romeena,Rev,Possum,BOO an dall...well back at the night shift again for one more week!..and CT! see you stoped by to rock!...Asa you behaving?...well let me get logged in....back in just a bit...SPOT
September 23, 2013 - Msg 94806: Hey, porch! I'm at a Holiday Inn in Rolla, MO. Will be home tomorrow evening. Charlotte, I'm so sorry about your mom. That really hurts, I know. Prayers for you and your family.
I haven't set up email on my phone yet. Just email my home address and I'll get it tomorrow evening. What story was it? I thought I was up to date? ?
Speaking of stories, we have had a master story teller on the boat. More about that later, from my computer. This teeny phone keyboard makes me crazy. See you tomorrow evening. --Romeena
September 24, 2013 - Msg 94807: Thanks for checking in, Ro. I look forward to hearing about your trip when you get home. Toye Starr will be so happy to have you home. :)

Glad fall is on you porch, Maude. It was 90 here again today...wish it would cool off.

MDC, that is just wonderful about your sister! Lord bless her.

"Hey" to SPOT. Asa is not behaving (to answer your question). ;)

Well, just took some cough medicine and put some VICKS on my chest...now I should retire to the ironing board for some adventure sleeping.

Boo
September 24, 2013 - Msg 94808: Anyone go to Mayberry Days?
September 24, 2013 - Msg 94809: skippy & I will be there, pics will follow @ miraclesalve.com website
any requests?
Daphne
September 24, 2013 - Msg 94810: Just crossed the Red River! We're back in Texas, home soon. --Romeena


September 24, 2013 - Msg 94811: Ro, I been lookin' for you. I never got the Fiesta Ware piece. Or, perhaps it went to my junk mail by accident. Can you send it to me asap? Thanks. Glad you are back safe and sound.
Charlotte Tucker
September 24, 2013 - Msg 94812:
BOO-did I ever tell you that I got another new vacuum? Sean may like this one. After two bagless models the past 6 years or so, I returned to a bagged Eureka. (Bagged Eureka? Is there a joke in there somewhere?) Anyways, it sure works great, better than either bagless Hoovers I tried.
CHARlotte- glad to sse you back on your rocker.
SPOTTY-Night shift eh, is that like night court? ha
DAPHne- would love to see any MD photos when ya get back. thx.
Well, praying for Kenya, Syria,and for our government reps and senators regarding this showdown. We sure do need God's help in all!
Prayers,
MDC
September 24, 2013 - Msg 94813: Hey MDC..well back here at the night shift...My Friend Miss Martha and I are gona get a treat Thu...gona Take my mom and pop to the north ga st. fair to see Loretta Lynne!..pop is so excited....hey Romeena,Boo,CT,Asa you better behave....ok...let me get logged in...prayers...SPOT
September 24, 2013 - Msg 94814: Hey MDC..well back here at the night shift...My Friend Miss Martha and I are gona get a treat Thu...gona Take my mom and pop to the north ga st. fair to see Loretta Lynne!..pop is so excited....hey Romeena,Boo,CT,Asa you better behave....ok...let me get logged in...prayers...SPOT
September 24, 2013 - Msg 94815: sorry...

September 25, 2013 - Msg 94816: Those darn paws again? (:
September 25, 2013 - Msg 94817: I'm heading out tomorrow to Mayberry Days, will try to act like somebody (Sgt.TOM has spies there too I suppose!)

G-F.....
September 25, 2013 - Msg 94818: Have fun, G-F.

No, MDC, you didnt tell me about the new vaccum. Sean has about 10 vacuums right now and at least one of them is a bagged Eureka. I know he likes it. Glad your's is working well for you. Right now Sean is mostly using a Dyson cannister vacuum that works well on wood floors. He bought it like-new from a man who got rid of it because of a broken switch. The part cost about 4 dollars, Sean ordered it and fixed the thing and now it works great.

Well, I have to talk something over with you all and ask your prayers concerning a decision Bruce and I need to make concerning Erin's education. You may remember that she was in a private Christian school from Kindergarten until the start of 5th grade and she loved it and thrived there. The school closed and I just couldn't put her in the public school here. It has a very bad reputation and I just felt I had to homeschool. In some ways it has worked out well and it has been good being able to spend so much time with her, but she is so energetic, competitive by nature, and very social and Bruce and I feel that she is getting bored and lonely. Frankly, she is wearing me out with all her energy and I just can't be all she needs right now. The nearest private school is about 40 minutes from here, and its a good one but costs about 500 per month. I know that is not bad...especially compared to some of the Catholic schools in the area, which are great schools but very expensive, especially for non-Catholics. Anyway, we are contemplating putting her in public school in a town about 15 minutes from us, where we attend church and Erin has friends that attend there. It is an "open" school system and you don't have to be a resident of the town to attend, and it is probably the best public school system in our area. She wants to go and I know there would be so much for her to enjoy and be involved in. It would also be an opportunity to fill in any of the gaps in her education that I may not even be aware of. It is scary for me to think about because I know what things are like in schools these days, in many places. I am thinking that I can put her in public for the rest of this year and by then I will be working part-time again and can send her to a good private school next year. She just can't wait to start school and begin playing sports or be in band, etc. She is dying to be with other kids her own age, as scary as that can be. She feels left out when her friends talk about their school activities and so on. Please pray for Bruce and me as we make our decision. We want God's will for Erin. Thanks!

Boo


September 25, 2013 - Msg 94819: Hi All
Boy is it cold in the morning about 46 and now me heat did not want to work!
G-F go have from at Mayberry day just send me a postcard from there, and you can be bad.

TOM

September 25, 2013 - Msg 94820: You have my prayers Boo. I know you two will allow Gods will to lead you to make the right choices. That is one of the blessings you enjoy in living close to the sprit always. You know what He will have you do, and you will have the faith and courage to do it. Gods ways are not always our ways, and sometimes we have to put our faith on the line and let God work his miracles. I know you know what I'm talking about, having experienced such things previously no doubt. I know you both will do what He wants done.

Have fun at M.D. G.F. and stay sane. Well.... have fun buddy. :)

Asa
September 25, 2013 - Msg 94821:
Boo- I will also be praying for the Lord to guide you on this. I would say just be prudent up front to meet with the principal to make sure that you are notified before any s-x ed is taught, alt lifestyles, etc, because legally you can pull her from any of such classes or assemblies. Plenty of warning should be given.
Also, know her rights on a PS campus. She can pray, bring a Bible, etc without any repercusions.
here's a good link:
http://media.aclj.org/pdf/040817_jay_student_rights.pdf
Folks, also pray for our country right now.
The so-called affordable HC plan is about to start,
and in AZ it was just announced that the so-called cheapest plan, the bronze, will be $260 a mo with only 60 percent coverage, and with super-high deductibles and copays!! And, if you don't take it, you will be fined and have NO coverage!Sorry prez, that is NOT afforadable. So many people still think it will be free! Are they in for a big surprise! Lord Jesus help us.
Prayers,
MDC
September 25, 2013 - Msg 94822:
Howdy porch family

Here's a short film of my daughter's wedding if ya'll would like to see it. Hope I get this right

https://vimeo.com/75258639

Love and prayers
-REV.
September 25, 2013 - Msg 94823: Hey Rev..and Boo,MDC,asa and all...here in rain till 6am to try to keep lights on...back in a bit...SPOT
September 25, 2013 - Msg 94824: Well darn it, REV...you should have warned me! I am sitting here without a tissue....! So beautiful.

Boo
September 25, 2013 - Msg 94825: REV, I agree with Boo...That one made me cry! It reminded me of my daughters wedding even the Manor was a lot like the place they were married in thanks for sharing that....

TOM, Me bad?? The slogan for Mayberry Days is: "What happens in Mayberry stays in Mayberry" ;) I'll try...As long as Asa don't show up and make me stray off the straight & narrow. I'll try to "Act like somebody"!

G-F.....MB (Mayberry Bound)
September 26, 2013 - Msg 94826: Good evening, porch! Sorry I haven't checked in before now, since getting back home, but have been busy, and tired! We had a perfectly marvelous time. The riverboat trip on the old stern-wheeler was so much fun. There were about 110 guests on the boat, and our group was just 34. It wasn't what you would think of, when you think of a riverboat. No casino, a cash bar available for those that wanted it, but it was not emphasized, and very few used it. All food and all non-alcoholic drinks were free. The river itself was a lot of the entertainment. Lots to see as we paddle-wheeled our way down the Illinois river. We didn't get on the Mississippi until we reached the point where it converges with the Illinois, just about three hours out of St. Louis. Therefore, most of the three-day trip was on the Illinois. We were on the boat all day, but docked and went by bus to very nice hotels every night. Our luggage was on the buses, which followed us from place to place. When we got to the hotel each night, our luggage was on the bus with us, and was taken to our room. We never had to handle it.

The food was wonderful, and was in almost constant supply. It was cooked on the boat, by two very pleasant ladies, and served buffet style. When they weren't serving an actual meal, they were putting out "snacks." So much food!

The boat is smaller than I expected, but it has everything. Three decks - first deck is the kitchen and dining room, second deck is the "salon" where the entertainment took place, and there's a lot of comfortable chairs out on the aft and stern deck as well. The third deck houses the little gift shop, and an area that was not accessible, which I believe is the captain's cabin. He stays on the boat at night. There is a lot of on-deck seating on the third deck, and is an excellent place to just sit in the warm sun (it was a bit chilly) and watch the world go by. A little room on top of all of that is the bridge, where the captain spends the day while the boat is in motion.

The "entertainment" consisted of a very talented piano player, Ken Bradbury, an older fellow with a delightful wit and charm, who has taught school in every grade imaginable, including college courses. He has written songs, stories, poems and essays, and was a joy to talk with. He also plays the on-board calliope!

Barry Cloyd played the guitar, the dobro, and the banjo, and sang. Many of the songs he wrote himself, but he sang a lot of familiar ones as well. One was "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald", to give you an idea of his chosen music genre. Lots of ballads.

They were all very good, but my favorite was Brian "Fox" Ellis, a storyteller and self-described "riverlorian." Just Google his name on the internet, and you'll find a wealth of information about him. He's delightful, tremendously talented, and makes the characters and stories come alive. He goes by "Fox", I never heard anyone call him Brian. He can switch into one of his story characters so smoothly that you almost don't realize he's done it, he tells the story using that person's voice, and when it's finished he does a simple little bow, and he's Fox again. When he's not performing, he just wanders around the boat, mingling and talking with the passengers, answering questions and just seems like everyone's brother. An extremely interesting man. A naturalist, a writer, an ecologist, a historian and a very accomplished storyteller. I'd make that trip again, just to hear more of his stories.

Well, I guess that's enough for tonight. I wish everyone could have been on that boat. It really was a wonderful experience. If you want details, such as cost, and the logistics involved, just Google "Spirit of Peoria" riverboat cruise. You'll find it all there. Blessings, everyone! --Romeena
September 26, 2013 - Msg 94827: Boo, I have no doubt that you and Bruce will pray the question through, regarding Erin's school, and will arrive at the best thing to do. As you habitually do, just listen to God's voice and you can't go wrong. Remember that there's nothing you can do that can't be undone, so if you decide on a school, and you see signs that it might have been a mistake, you can always pull her out again. On the other hand, if you see her blooming as she makes new friends and begins to figure out who she is and where she fits in this old world, you can leave her there. Of course, if you decide to continue to home school, you know it has worked up until now, and you may or may not need to change it. Just pray it through. Blessings, my friend. --Romeena
September 26, 2013 - Msg 94828: Morning porch, just a quick check point chickie as I start my work day. I will be here til 6 tonight so it will be a long day for me.

We had rain off and on all day yesterday. This morning it was foggy but clearing to be a sunny beautiful fall day.

Beth and I got out flu shots last night. Mr. Maude did a pretty good job. It didn't even hurt and my arm is not sore this morning. Hopefully it will keep the flu at bay this winter. I have had a pneumonia shot, whooping cough shot, flu shot and all the recommended tests for those of us over 50. Guess I am no spring chicken anymore but am good to go for a while longer.

Boo: I agree with the fine wisdom Romeena has passed along regarding Erin's school. Public school can be scary but those are also schools that provide quality education not only academically but socially as well. Some kids need the social interaction. I found that our public schools prepared my kids well academically but also for them being able make decisions about social issues and friends, It certainly helped them make their own decisions about who to hang out with and who NOT to hang out with. Of course, I live in a different area of the country than you so things may be a little different in how school systems operate. You and Bruce will make the right decision.

Charlotte Tucker I am sorry to learn of your mothers passing. my sympathies to you and your family.

Lunch menu: tomato soup, grilled cheese, little debbie cakes. tea or leomonade to drink.

guess I had better mosey on. gotta get busy.

prayers and blessings

Big Maude

September 26, 2013 - Msg 94829: Sounds like a wonderful trip, Ro, though i don't know that i would like to hear The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald while on a boat..just sayin'. ;) I'm so glad you enjoyed yourself and are back home safe and sound. We always miss you when you are away.

Thank all of you for the wisdom, prayers and encouragement concerning Erin. The school district I am thinking of sending her to is a small-town school where they still say the pledge of allegiance, they can meet for prayer 15 minutes before the start of school, and they even have a bible club that meets after school once a week, that is led by one of my good friends who teaches English/Lit at the school. I know she would have at least one good friend that would attend with her, too. After talking to my pastor friend, Mark, who has several children in the school there, I think I have decided that I would want her to attend the intermediate school (6th grade) instead of 7th. There is a big change in junior high and I think she might adjust better in 6th grade. She just turned 12 and she is a young 12...pretty naive about the world. Maude, she is very social and wants badly to be with kids her own age. If I had more time and energy, I would try to involve her in a homeschool coop but would have to go out of town for that. I just dont have it in my right now. I feel like I am pulled in so many directions, having an elderly mom and mom-in-law here in town, plus my own schooling. I am really leaning towards putting her in school at this point and feel ok about it. Still praying, though. One of the main reasons I think public school might be a good option is that she loves athletics and playing sports and has little opportunity to do that at this point.

Better get going...still feeling kind of crummy, got alot of congestion. It is taking forever to get completely over this cold! I guess I was rundown. I need to go visit with mom today so better scoot...

Boo
September 26, 2013 - Msg 94830: Good morning, porch! Boo, it sounds like you've just about made your decision, and every word makes sense. Small town school, still permits value-based activities, the Bible isn't a dirty word there, pastor's children go there, good friend teaches there - it all sounds good to me. I agree totally with your decision to put her in 6th grade instead of 7th. There's no hurry. She has her whole life to be "grown up" in, and only a few short years to be a school kid. Let her get the most out of it that she can.

Well, better run. Blessings, everyone! --Romeena
September 27, 2013 - Msg 94831:
BOO, I agree with RO. You seem to know quite a bit about the school. My comments had to do with going in "blindly" to some school, sort of like what our senators and reps do with some bills! :(
I hope all is well with all porchsters. Step right up and say Hey.
REV, loved the video, very cool.
MDC
September 27, 2013 - Msg 94832: Well, Ro, it seemed easy enough but now we are having trouble because the school systems are demanding records that we don't have. When the private school that erin attended closed and now it is next to impossible to get any of those records. Homeschool in Texas doesn't require record keeping and most homeschool families don't begin keeping records until highschool (due to preparing for college). Also, they would be giving Erin the new STAAR test that is required and it is harder the the TAAKS test that was being given last year in public school. They would use the test to place her and that concerns me because she isn't used to formal testing. Now I have to come up with some sort of records, write a letter explaining Erin's situation, begin trying to get her ready for the testing, and it is discouraging. I really thought it would be easier. I don't understand the need for all the records if they are going to test her for placement anyway. Oh well...one step at a time. I did talk to my friend who teaches in the school and she assured me that she is available to help Erin to prepare or catch up if she needs it. It's funny that I have heard so many stories about families that homeschool and the hassles they sometimes get from CPS trying to get them to put their kids in public, and I have to say I have been met with a kind of disinterest in the schools here. Sad part is, they probably already have more kids than they can handle.

Well, I should get to bed. Tomorrow is another day with its own challenges. :)

Boo
September 27, 2013 - Msg 94833: Charlotte Tucker, nice to see you, but sorry about your mom. Prayers for you and your family.

Boo, my prayers to you as well for God to guide you through these tough decisions regarding Erin's education. But yes, some public schools do still practice traditional ideals. When Kai was in kindergarten, we were living in another town, even smaller than the one we live in now. Actually, a lot smaller. And I would always walk her to school for her half-day of kindergarten, and I remember hearing the principal always reciting the Pledge Of Allegiance over the loudspeaker as I was walking out, and it could just have been me, but he seemed to emphasize the "...Under God" part, which was a surprise to me considering that this was a public school, but I always liked that he did that. Gave me more confidence that the school was not just another "progressive" indoctrination center.
Sorry you are having trouble with even getting Erin in the school. If they give you too much hassle, you may want to consult the ACLJ like MDC suggested. Another place you can ask about it is the CLA http://www.christianlaw.org/cla/index.php/contact/ I have used them recently in a question I had about Kai taking some more classes in the public school this year, and they were very quick to reply with the information I needed.

Well folks, I had my first night ever spent in a hospital last Tuesday(not counting the times I spent there with my wife when she was having Kai and Noah).
What happened was I had just put on my shoes and was getting up from a seated position, when I had the worst back pain I ever had. It came on fast and furious and I was floored, literally. Oh, it was horrible. And I actually yelled, and I never yell. That's how bad the pain was. Luckily Noah didn't get too scared, and he was busy watching the show I had put on for him on the tv.
I had lower back pain like this before, but never this bad. I couldn't even crawl. I felt like the earth's gravity had increased 50 fold and I was just stuck to the ground from the pain.
Another lucky thing was that I had my cell phone, and called my brother who was up from where he lived, and he came over and helped me a bit, changing Noah's diaper and helping me stand up when I needed it. I was amazed I was able to go over and unlock the door for him, but I knew I had to so somehow God gave me the strength to do that.
After he left because he had to take his wife and daughter back home, my mom came over to help with Noah, and I made the mistake of laying on ground again facedown(I certainly couldn't lay down on my back because I tried that and it was horrible), and then I really couldn't get up this time. So my wife came home, and called for the ambulance(also my first ride in one of those, not counting the ex-ambulance that my brother bought and drove around in for a while). They tried to roll me over on my back, but that was not happening. Then they put this neat little board that splits apart to get under each side of you and then connects together again, and then they were going to carry me out on that, but I guess there was not enough firmness to that and when they lifted it I let them know that wasn't going to work either. So finally they brought in the cart thing they had, told me to take a deep breath, and lifted me quickly onto that. Then rolled me out to the ambulance. So that was that and I was on my way to the hospital. They put me on one of the ER beds, with the same "take a deep breath" suggestions, and everything was good after that, as long as I didn't have to move. So they gave me some morphine and some other stuff I couldn't pronounce, and I thought I was doing better. And they thought I was doing better as well and were even going to let me go home after a while. But first one of the nurses said I had to get up on my feet. I mean, I couldn't even lay on my back and she wanted me on my feet??
But I thought I would give it a try. The minute I put my legs down and put pressure on them(and my back), the excruciating pain came back and I tried to get back down onto the bed on my stomach, telling them that I felt like I was going to pass out, but that stupid nurse wouldn't let me lay down, holding me and telling me not to go back down. She must have thought after I stood up that I would be ok.
Well, I wasn't. What happened after that I couldn't really tell you, because the pain was so bad I actually blacked out. And I am kind of glad that I did because it was really horrible. I guess my brain just shut off my body due to that pain. Unfortunately it also shut off my bodily control so I wet my pants. I did really have to go, but I had been waiting until the drugs kicked in so maybe I would be able to use the bathroom. So much for that.
The only good thing was that at least they put me on my back, and it was comfortable then once I got there.
So for some reason they decided to keep me there overnight. ;)
Giving me meds which didn't really seem to help much, but at least on Wed. I was finally able to get up and walk to the bathroom. I didn't know if I was ready to leave later that day on Wed. but they seemed to think I could, but I could stay if I didn't feel I was ready. But I went home anyway.
Today I had my first appointment with the physical therapist they set me up with, and that went pretty good and I actually felt a little better when I walked out of there. Though later on I started to feel the pain a bit more again, but I can still walk(tilted over) and do most things, except bend down. My wife is going to attempt to go to work tomorrow while I attempt to take care of Noah. That should be fun trying to change his diaper, especially if he is in a rascally mood.

But that was my past couple days, hope your days are better.

-Sterling Holobyte

September 27, 2013 - Msg 94834: Good grief, Sterling! What a terrible experience. Good luck with the physical therapy, but I'm betting you're going to need some surgical intervention. I hope not, for your sake, but just know this. I had a very similar experience in June of last year, and it required surgery to fix it. I had low back problems and significant pain for years, had been through three rounds of PT for it, would get a little better, maybe even disappear, but would always come back. The final episode had me standing in my bedroom crying, unable to take a step. My legs simply would not respond, the pain was too great when I tried to move, so they just wouldn't move. The pain when standing had me crying, but taking a step was out of the question. I'll skip the details, but with help I got to the doctor, who reviewed old CTs and more recent x-rays, and knew what had happened. I was in surgery for almost five hours the next day. The whole sacral plate had literally broken apart, and had to be put back together. I've got a lot of hardware in my lower back now, but I have no pain. None. I have back pain, but it's in the middle of my back, related to scoliosis, and I just have to deal with it. The surgeon said he could operate and "try" to help, but said I'd probably end up in worse shape than I am now, and he would prefer not to attempt it. It's more discomfort, unlike the lower back which was screaming pain. I can deal with discomfort. I didn't even take pain meds after the surgery. The postop pain was nothing compared to what I had experienced before the surgery, so it was easy to deal with it.

I'm saying all of this because it sounds like you could be in the same boat. Try the PT, it might work. However, if it doesn't, find a good back surgeon and get it done. Life is too short to spend it in pain, or in the anticipation of another attack. It's just not worth it. I have a sense that you're a very reluctant patient, not inclined to submit surgery, but take it from one who has been there - this situation can and will bring you to your knees. You can pray while you're down there, (I did!) but sometimes God's answer is for you to take advantage of the knowledge and skill He has placed in the hands of physicians. Remember, Luke was a physician! I will be praying for you, and hope you'll find an answer very soon.

Boo, I'm so sorry you're hitting roadblocks with Erin's school situation. Just keep asking God to put the answers before you, and you'll make the right decisions.

Well, I need to get away from this computer for a little while. Other things in the house need my attention! Like Toye Starr. Blessings, friends! --Romeena
September 27, 2013 - Msg 94835: Wow...so sorry, Sterling! That is just terrible. As a nurse, I think alittle like Ro does and I am very curious about what is really going on with your back. Did they do a CT scan while you were in the hospital? Please let us know how things go.

Thanks, Ro. I am praying and waiting...and thinking and preparing. I believe God can arrange things the way He wants them. :)

Its was a HOT day here in south Texas...wow! We are so ready for some cooler temperatures but doesn't look like there are any in sight. Hope the rest of you are staying cool and enjoying this time of year.

Boo
September 27, 2013 - Msg 94836: MESSAGE: MESSAGE: Sterling...Wow is right, and I am wondering the same thing, did they take any x-rays or CT scan? If not, I highly suggest it. A vsry similar episode also happened to me about 5 years ago, and the x-rays showed a pretty crooked lower back and a buldging disc. After much prayer and having my GP look it over, I decided on a chiropractor. I know that they often get a bum rap, but the one I found, by the grace of God, did her thing really well, and I am doing great. I still go once a month, and tho insur@nce only does 6 visits, she still only charges me the co-pay of 20 bucks, and I am not billed for any more. You know from my past posts that I like to try the alt way on things if possible, but at the same time, I am not poo-pooing what RO did. That really worked for her, especially if the disc is fully slipped or worn to the bone, etc. Some days I wake up a little "crooked" but doing some back exercises really does the trick along with ice or heat. I'm not a big fan of things like morphine, etc because it just masks the pain instead of getting to the root cause of it. Our whole nervous system comes out of the spine. My prayers are indeed with you, brother. MDC
September 27, 2013 - Msg 94837:
Oops, the "MESSAGE, MESSAGE" above is because I got censored twice for val**m and insur@nce, so I did the copy/ paste thing, and those words showed up. strange
September 27, 2013 - Msg 94838: Evening friends. Sorry about your back problems Sterling. Been there.done that. No fun at all. You have my prayers buddy.

Boo you might not want to read this. We actually got some snow this morning here. Not enough to stick down in the valley but our ski resorts got several inches. And we stayed in the 40's most of the day.

Nice to see you back Ro. I imagine you're glad to be back.

Hope GF is having a grand old time at Mayberry Days.

Better get going.I gotta change batteries in my smoke detectors. Got one chirping and I'm gonna get my 12 gauge out if I need to.

Asa
September 27, 2013 - Msg 94839:
Sterling Holobyte, many years ago, I pulled something in my back at work. Although I could feel the vibration of something tearing, there was no initial pain. As the work day progressed, that area of my lower back slowly increased in pain until I had to go home early. By the time I got home, the only comfortable position for me was curled up in a fetal position on the sofa. To use the bathroom, I had to crawl on all fours. When I was able to use a cane to walk, I went to the emergency room where an M.D. took an xray and gave me a muscle relaxer before sending me home. Then my neighbor suggested I visit his D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathy). Besides doing manipulations with my legs and back, he gave me daily treatments involving electric current in my lower back. In a week, the pain was gone and I was able to return to work. From now on, whenever I have back pain, I see a D.O. and not an M.D.

Romeena, your recent river trip brought back some pleasant memories for me when I served in the Navy. I miss the sea.
When the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald sank in Lake Superior back in November 1975, I was crossing the Pacific Ocean at that time. Listening to that haunting music puts me in a somber mood since I know what those brave seamen must have experienced. I have been through my share of storms on the Pacific.
During my Naval service, we assisted Coast Guard helicopters in rescuing merchant seamen from a sinking ship. My ship was an aircraft carrier and the helicopters needed to refuel to complete the round trip. It was the high point of my military career because we were saving lives instead of taking lives.

from Poor Horatio
September 28, 2013 - Msg 94840: Thanks for the concern and the prayers, all.

Ro, you may be right with the surgery thing. Today I was talking to my sister-in-law and she was telling me about my brother's problems with his back, and he has had a lot. She was saying that some of his discs in his lower back were so degenerated that Mayo Clinic told him that he was not a candidate for surgery. So now they are still looking for something to help him grin and bear it, I guess. So that makes me think I had better look into this now before it gets worse.

Boo and MDC, no, the hospital didn't do any scans or x-rays. They said it was because they can generally tell about some back problems based on just an examination and the patient telling them where the pain is, and how they are standing or how they move. I guess that could be true because my SIL said my brother had an MRI but it just showed he had a bulging disc but not the extensive damage that he really had.
And the doctors, nurses, and physical therapist I am seeing all said it looked like mine is a bulging disc, so the PT is working with me to get it back in its proper position. I asked her today how can I keep from this happening again, once I am back to normal(or as normal as I can get) and she said by retraining the way I bend down for things and my posture and things like that. I don't know if that will do it completely, and I don't know if I want to take that chance. Any of you nurses have any idea if just doing that would work? I am just not that confident I would be able to keep that up all the time. Because once I get to feeling better, I might tend to slip and won't always remember my posture or exercise that might help.

I've never heard of a D.O. Poor Horatio, but I will have to look into that.
But my SIL says that if we have good insur@nce(which we do, for now), I should look into maybe having some surgery to correct it. Though she said, "The next time it happens." Based on what I went through this time, I don't think I want to wait for "next time."

I am feeling better today. I went down to the physical therapist although I didn't have an appointment until Monday. But I wasn't feeling like I was getting better this morning so when she called to check in on me, I decided to go in today. She gave me some different exercises to do, and I think they are more effective than the ones she gave me on Thursday. I actually was able to change Noah's diaper and get him dressed. I thought it would be impossible, but he was surprisingly a good boy and got up on the couch for me so I could change him. My wife said he must know that I am hurting.



Asa, you got snow?? Wow, where are you located again, the himalayas? ;) And yeah, don't you hate when those smoke detectors start chirping? But that's better than them going off full blast when you don't even have fire. Like when I am cooking. That's happened more than once. :)

-Sterling Holobyte