January 24, 2016 - Msg 103743: Sorry MDC for your birds....
January 24, 2016 - Msg 103744: Ouch, yes, to whoever swept the porch, we got spanked but good! I don't think there is any stopping Cam Newton; he's a real goliath!
The game got away from us in the first quarter...and just went from there.
Not sure if Fitz has any more gas in his tank, but we shall see.
But my congrats to Possum's team.
MDC :(
January 24, 2016 - Msg 103745: PH--2 great videos!! Beautiful and HAHA!
January 24, 2016 - Msg 103746: RO--concerning your sofa vs bed vs ironing board:
I too have often wondered why he had to/wanted to use the ironing board. If nothing else, sleep on the floor! And, I agree, I find many sofas to be more comfortable than a bed. In my almost 40 years of marriage, I have had the chance to try out several different couches! haha Slept great, and no feet in my back! (another ha)
MDC
January 24, 2016 - Msg 103747: Wow, PH, those snow pictures are impressive. Perhaps I shouldn't mention that it's 60° here in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, and not a snowflake in sight. Actually, the last snowman I built was two or three years ago, and I used a tablespoon to scrape enough snow out of the grass to build a little snowman about six inches high on the corner of a brick lamppost out front. He had an acorn cup for a hat, and a couple of strands of fluffy yarn for a scarf. I doubt that anyone in a passing car would have noticed him, but my mailman did, since he walked within three feet of him.

As most of you know, my husband was from Michigan, and we met when he was in the Air Force, stationed in San Antonio. When he got out of the service, we had a decision to make, regarding where we would settle to live. Being very young and eager to be the dutiful wife, I assured him I would go with him if he wanted to return to Michigan. He looked at me as though I had just sprouted horns, and said - "Girl, are you crazy? I have shoveled my last shovel full of snow. We will live in Texas!" I couldn't have been more relieved. As far as I know, he never regretted that decision. If he did, he never let me know it. Instead, he quickly picked up a respectable Texas drawl, learned to love Mexican food, and would comment several times every winter about how he was glad he wasn't shoveling snow. About that drawl - he really sounded like a Texas after a few years, except for the word "on." Midwesterners pronounce it "ahn" and he never lost it. Texans say "awn", and he never quite got there. I can spot a Michigan accent a mile away, just by listening for that one word, because it just never quite yields to any other accent. In fact, some Texans almost manage to make two syllables out of it, and I'm one of them. The more pronounced drawls are fading somewhat these days, especially in the big cities, because of the influx of "Yankees" who are moving here. However, some of us old-timers are still hanging on to the drawl. It's just part of who we are.

Blessings, friends! --Romeena
January 25, 2016 - Msg 103748: Romeena, I can't take offense at something that I already know to be true. I do tend to dwell on things sometimes. Who do you think Kai gets it from?! The thing is, I also talk about those things, maybe too much I guess.

I guess I will be having to have a talk with the missus first; can't very well take the hard line with Noah if we are not a united front and in agreement on which direction this should go, and then take it from there.

Haha Poor Horatio, I think if Noah watched that he might never want to go back to the dentist. But it had me laughing.

Sorry about your Cardinals, MDC. I watched the last quarters of the game. To be honest, I was hoping that it wouldn't go into overtime as I was waiting for the new episodes of The X-Files to come on after the game, Lol. But I do wish it had gone a bit better for Arizona. Nothing seemed to go right for them especially in the 4th quarter. I still don't understand why the Panthers went for the 2 point conversion when they were so far ahead. Seemed kind of classless to me.

As for the X-Files revival I was excited for, it didn't quite live up to the hype. Oh, I enjoyed seeing them get together as a team again, but it feels kind of rehashed stuff all over again, and the way they ended the first part was predictable. I will still watch the remaining 5 episodes(unless they get real stupid or something), but my excitement for its return has been tempered a bit.
Actually, I don't find myself getting excited by much in Hollywood anymore, which I think is probably a good thing and means I have my priorities straight, or at least, straighter.
Now, if I found out that there were a whole bunch of lost TAGS episodes that they were going to show, THAT would earn that excitement back.

-Sterling Holobyte



January 25, 2016 - Msg 103749: Good morning, porch! It's 63° here, just before noon. The sun is a laser coming through my window and reflecting off every smooth surface, even my phone! I have placed pieces of paper over the shiniest spots, so I can see my monitor! Once the leaves fall, my window is not shaded for much of the day, and it presents a problem! Yes, I have a blind on the window, but it's eight feet wide, and therefore heavy, and it wouldn't take long for those 40-year-old cords to wear through if I was raising and lowering it every day. There are drapes as well, which can be drawn, but again, they're 40 years old (good grief!) and would probably just shred if I started moving them. Besides, covering the window would defeat the whole purpose of having it, which is to allow me to view the whole back yard and observe all the wildlife activity out there. So, I'll just keep putting pieces of paper on the reflective surfaces as needed. Looks messy, but who cares?

Thank you, Sterling. You're very kind. I hope you and your wife can come to an agreement on how to deal with the problem. Right now, he has to be the kid, and you have to be the grown-ups, and do what must be done, and you're absolutely right, you have to be united here. You both love Noah, and want what's best for him, so I'm sure you will.

Here comes my neighbor's cat, strolling down my fence line. Dumb cat, he does this almost every day, and every time (if I'm home) I water him. I guess he just plays the odds, hoping I'm not home. Today I am, and armed with my sprinkler remote!

Ha! Got him! Caught him in the sweet spot in Zone 6, and watered him very well. He threw his dignity to the four winds, scrambled down the fence to the spot where there's a break in the fence-hugging shrubbery, and up and over he went! He has gone home, a wetter but apparently no wiser kitty, because he'll be back tomorrow. He's actually a sweet old cat, and I like him, but I don't want him over here preying on my birds and squirrels. The water doesn't hurt him - I'd never do that - but it sure sends him packing. So funny! I love to puncture a cat's dignity.

Well, guess I'll go rustle up some lunch. Blessings, friends. --Romeena
January 25, 2016 - Msg 103750: Ha! That ol' cat is still prowling around your yard,Ro? He must be as dumb as a box of rocks,'cause you've been blasting him for a LONG time now with that water sprinkler. You'd think he'd get a clue-geesh!

MDC,those are my mama's Panthers! I'm not into football or big on sports at all,but I'm sure Mama Possum is mighty happy over her Panthers going to the Super Bowl! I am proud & excited for the Carolinas though!

Hope everyone is having a nice Monday-stay warm & remember to "Act like somebody"!

*****************
possum under a rock
January 25, 2016 - Msg 103751: Oh drats Possum! You done told me to act like somebody and I'll be dogged if you weren't to late. I mean it's late Monday afternoon. You think I haven't broken that rule a dozen times already today? Remind me first thing in the morning and I'll give it a shot tomorrow. 10-4?

Sorry for the loss MDC. I cursed em I'm sure. Every time I come out for a team they lose. I'm just no good! I disgust myself.

Sounds like Ro and that cat have them a little thing going on. LOL You get em Ro.

Asa
January 25, 2016 - Msg 103752: Here ya go Romeena!... I taut I saw a putty tat!..lol...G-F
http://youtu.be/iGh5aE5VGoI

January 25, 2016 - Msg 103753: Hi
I taut I saw G-F and ASA in the big house? 10-9

TOM


January 25, 2016 - Msg 103754:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-B5vCLAoqw

from Poor Horatio
January 25, 2016 - Msg 103755: Hahahaha! Tweety is just the greatest. I love Tweety. Thanks, guys. --Romeena
January 26, 2016 - Msg 103756: Ok, Asa, we'll let you slide this time,but if you keep forgettin' to act like somebody, we just might not let ya have any elixir during National Potato Week!

:)

possum again
January 26, 2016 - Msg 103757: Hi all

My Comfort Blanket.

God understands my aching heart,
He sees my hidden tears.
Tho all alone, I trust in Him
To guide me through these lonely years.

When sorrow overwhelms me,
I go to God in prayer.
I carry on with faith and hope...
Knowing He is always there.

My God is my comfort blanket,
He wraps me in His warming care.
When the specter of loneliness shadows me.
He hears my entreating prayer.


TOM 10-4

January 27, 2016 - Msg 103758: Good evening, porch. Tom, that poem is beautiful, and really speaks to my heart. I've known loneliness, and I've found God's comfort, just as the poem describes. Thank you for sharing that. --Romeena
January 27, 2016 - Msg 103759: Yep TOM, have to agree with Romeena, that is a Good one!... 10-4....G-F
January 27, 2016 - Msg 103760: Anyone like some fish muddle or hogback bone for dinner? ha
I just saw that ep on Me-TV, but they cut out the scene of Andy trying to wake Barney up! i like that scene, so well acted.
I wonder why they do that?
TOM, nice work on the poem, thanks so much.
Well, things are getting pretty crazy in Iowa!
At lease our 'lections are still 'civil' and not
coups or the like!!
I hope everyone made it thru the storms OK, and that
POSSUM stayed huddled under her rock.
SPOT and others, all OK?
Prayers,
MDC
January 27, 2016 - Msg 103761: Good evening, porch. MDC, to answer your question, I know why they do that - cut out good parts of episodes, that is, and so do you. It's to make room for more commercials. I usually finagle things so that I'm about thirty minutes behind on whatever shows I'm planning to watch, and can therefore buzz through commercials, but that doesn't always work out. So, when I have to watch the silly things, I pass the time by counting the number of commercials in any given break. Earlier this week, a new record was set. Nineteen commercials. Yep, count 'em - nineteen. That's 19. The duration was around six minutes, though I didn't time it precisely. Some were 30 seconds, some were just 15 seconds, and one particularly annoying one (Marie Osmond and her diet stuff) was a full minute. Tell me that's not ridiculous? One night, on a commercial break, I fed Toye Starr, took out the kitchen trash and then took the big trash bag out to the street, replenished my iced tea, and was back in my chair when the break was over. Do they really believe we sit and watch that stuff? I guess I do at times, but I'm not paying attention to the content, I'm counting, or more often, reading the newspaper comics during the commercials. I like the comics for that purpose, because you can put them down at any time. Well, so much for commercials.

Our weather is just beautiful. We got to 31° last night, but it warmed up today, was clear and sunny, and the rest of the week is supposed to be warm. The 70s are predicted for the weekend. Sorry, all you snowbound folks. Just remember - we may get hit in February - we usually do. It won't be anything like what you've endured, but we frequently do get a little snow in February. Then spring will be here before any of us know it. I'm ready! --Romeena
January 28, 2016 - Msg 103762: Hey porch sitters ,just jumped in for a quick howdy .Looks like the rockers are still full of familiar folks .Hope all had a blessed Christmas and new year .I hope to be visiting again more often .SPOT , MDC ...NASCAR time is just around the corner .Blessings to all
MAYBERRY DEPUTY
January 28, 2016 - Msg 103763: Good afternoon, porch. This morning started off busy, but things have settled down now. I picked up Eloise and Jerry and took them to the airport, dropped them off at 8:30, then came home, stayed about half an hour, then went and picked up my sister-in-law and drove her to the doctor's office. She's about two weeks out from a hernia repair, so had to get checked out. She's fine. Came home and had a little lunch, then Ted came by to check out a possible leak in the roof, but couldn't find anything. There's a spot on the ceiling of my bedroom, which is either new, or is old and I just never noticed it before. Ted told me to just watch it and see if it expands when we get more rain. He stayed a while and we sat in the sunroom and talked. His visits usually start as business, then end up as social calls. He's a good friend.

Hey to Mayberry Deputy. Don't be such a stranger!

Well, guess I'll get up and tidy up the kitchen. How does it get so messy?? Blessings, friends! --Romeena


January 28, 2016 - Msg 103764: Just a trouble check gang. I'm headed to work. SPOT
January 29, 2016 - Msg 103765: Hey to MD, good to see ya again. Yup, nascar season soon, as well as spring training! Lots of testosterone! haha
ROMEEna, yup, i figured it was for commercials, but
ME-TV has been good at not doing too many, so that's
why I was so disappointed!
Big changes coming to our weather by Sunday, big storm
coming in from Kelsey's O-shun and the pa-ci-fic coast.
HELLO to SPOT AND ALL!
mdc
January 29, 2016 - Msg 103766: Well gang Goob's at the hospital waiting for the arrival of "Miss Olivia" looks like it's gonna be a long night.... G-F
January 29, 2016 - Msg 103767: Good Friday morning all.

Woke up this morning with my good friend gout. It is in my left foot and my right knee, which seems odd. I have never had it in two places at the same time before. But the knee pain may not be gout. It is in the back of my knee, which is a new place for me to have gout. I took my medicine, called in to work, and am now hunkered down in my "Wheeler". I guess we will see.

I am so excited for you GF. I hope all goes well with Miss Olivia and Mama. I bet you are an excellent Grandpa. I once heard someone say the reason Grandparents and Grandkids get along so well is because they share a common enemy. lol I don't go along with that, but I do think Grandparents can sometimes connect with Grandkids in a way that parents can't. And my kids welcome my help with their kids, which I appreciate. I try not to stick my nose in to their efforts, but will offer advice when asked.

Yes sir
January 29, 2016 - Msg 103768: Dang, hit the wrong key. Yes sir MDC, supposed to get some rain here tonight, and snow tomorrow. But a quick mover they say.

Hey to Mayberry Deputy. I hope you can visit more often.

We are socked in with a thick fog this morning. I hate driving in that stuff, so just as well that I stayed home.

Well y'all have a blessed day.et us know how things go GF.

Asa
January 29, 2016 - Msg 103769: Baby "Olivia" has arrived!...More "Glen Ford'in" soon!...G-F
January 29, 2016 - Msg 103770: Congrats GF and family! :)

Asa
January 29, 2016 - Msg 103771: My word Mrs SPOT put an electric blanket on our bed....oh my glad it has dual controls i keep mine off...we keep the heat set at 68 most of the time and celing fan running ..here at work few things going on...and congrats GF...SPOT
January 30, 2016 - Msg 103772: Congratulations, G-F. Another little grandbaby to brighten up the place! If I'd known how wonderful grandkids are, I'd have had them first! (heehee) Glad she's here, and all is well. Tell her mom one of her porch "aunties" says hey!

Spot, you and my son sound like brothers. He keeps their house on 68-70° most of the time, and I just freeze. I've learned to dress warmly, in layers, when going over there, and he keeps a blanket stashed in the living room because I always need it. Actually, two of them, because Eloise is always cold, too. I keep my thermostat on 74° during the day and 72-73° at night. I have ceiling fans in every room except the dining room, and some of them have remote controls. The one in my bedroom does, and it really is handy. I keep the control under a pillow, and if I need the fan at night in the summer, I just find the control and turn it on, don't have to get up. I've never had an electric blanket, but there have been times when I wished I did.

We're back to warm weather - in the mid 60s today, headed for low 70s tomorrow. Weird. I just know all my tulip bulbs are going to bolt with this warm weather, and then February will be very cold, and freeze everything. Warm weather in January is nice, but it sure does mix up the growing things. Oh well. All we can do is talk about it, can't do anything about it, so might as well just enjoy the warm weather while we have it.

Blessings, friends! --Romeena
January 30, 2016 - Msg 103773: Ah yes SPOTTy, the old cold females and hot males thing! Know it well! ha
GF---CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU and yours on your little "Andalina" Olivia grandbaby! I hear that POSSUM is
buying the wine shots over at Morelli's!! WooHoo!
ASA--This is serious, not kidding...have you ever tried oregano oil or taking oregano capsules for your gout? It helps attack it from within. Also, I'm sure you know about eating cherries, and limiting purine-rich foods, but drinking lots of water, and believe it or not, sasparilla! Just throwing a few things out there for ya buddy.
Our rain is to start on Sunday, sure would be nice!
TOM--where are you??
MDC

January 30, 2016 - Msg 103774: Good snowy Saturday morning porch. Rained all night, and now it's snowing pretty hard. We need the h20, so I best not gripe.

Thanks for the tips MDC. I have never tried the oregano. Maybe I'll get some and give it a try. I have tried cherry juice and extract. Doesn't seem to change anything for me. And I have tried to be careful what I eat, avoiding the foods they say to avoid. I do drink a lot of water as a rule. The only thing I have found for sure that will cause a flare is if I crash diet. That I know will get me. This flare hasn't been to bad thank goodness. Just odd to have it hit me in two different places though. But the left foot, although still a bit sore, is much improved. And my right knee this morning feels fine. But thanks for the ideas. I appreciate it.

My wife and I were always at odds over house temps also. I like it cool, and she could wear a sweater when it was 90 out. So for years we tried to find that happy medium. But since she has taken ill, and because of the monthly steroid infusions she gets, the battles are over. In fact she likes it even cooler in the house than I do sometimes. Mid 60's during the day, and lower 60's at night. That's in the winter. Summer time we don't keep it that cool.

Well GF, Your Olivia, and my Charlotte are going to be the same age pretty much. It is our duty to be sure to teach them the ways of the Mayberry way of life. :)

Well I think I better get some work done around here. I declare, I don't know how I can make such a mess.

Asa
January 30, 2016 - Msg 103775: Yes Asa you are right!... Matter of fact one of my Mayberry friends knitted Olivia her very own pink "Goobette" Beenie!
When I was at Mayberry Days I hooked her up with some Mayberry gear.... G-F
January 30, 2016 - Msg 103776: MDC,what if Ada ate a whole lot of spaghetti dinners with that "secret" Ingredient? ;-)
-Sterling Holobyte
January 30, 2016 - Msg 103777: That's supposed to be "Asa", not "Ada". Sorry Asa.
-SH
January 30, 2016 - Msg 103778: By the way..... Baby Olivia took my finger.... G-F http://youtu.be/VK90jfqjloU
January 30, 2016 - Msg 103779: Forgot to say, Congratulations G-F(Grandpa Fife)!

-Sterling Holobyte
January 30, 2016 - Msg 103780: HI
GRANDDADDE GRANDDADDE G-F and now you will never get a sleep at night when 2:oo am come

TOM

January 31, 2016 - Msg 103781: Good one TOM! :)
mdc
January 31, 2016 - Msg 103782: Good Sabbath all.

Hope everyone does ok with the storm. We had snow most of the day yesterday here. But very wet snow. Now it is colder than a well diggers wallet this morning. But it's the last day of January and I'm o.k. with that.

Funny you should mention spaghetti Sterling. That's what I had for supper last night. But I didn't have any oregano to put in it. Unless there was some in the store bought sauce I used. At least I didn't have to dine with Howard's mother, or listen to snarky Helen.

GF, That is awesome about Olivia getting a pink Goober beanie. You are going to have to get a picture of her wearing that when you are able.

Well better go get ready for preaching.
Prayers for all.

Asa


January 31, 2016 - Msg 103783: Good afternoon, porch. Snow, huh? Well, guess we won't be getting any of it, since the current temp is 72° here in the Dallas area, and the forecast for the next two weeks looks like spring all the way. It's a pleasure right now, but we need some cold weather to control some of the bugs, and to bring the bulbs and things into proper bloom. This has been a weird winter.

Well, I have a new granddog. David and Brittney couldn't stand their house, so empty without Bentley, so they got a puppy. He's a "Whoodle" - a mix of Wheaten terrier and poodle. Bentley was a Wheaten terrier, and so precious, so we're hoping the Wheaten genes will dominate. He's still a very little guy, still has "puppy breath" according to David. I love puppy breath. His name - get this - is Diesel. A little brown puffball named Diesel. Too funny. I haven't met him yet, have just seen pictures, but he's adorable. There will never be another Bentley, and Diesel can't replace him, but he doesn't have to. He'll make his own place.

Well, a nap is sounding very good right now. I had been scheduled for a home health visit this afternoon, but the man's daughter called me and told me that her dad had passed this morning. I wasn't surprised. When I saw him yesterday, I was pretty sure it was going to happen. So, the man is at peace, and it's a blessing.

Later, taters. --Romeena
January 31, 2016 - Msg 103784: GrandKidders come in all shapes, sizes, and kinds..lol I'm glad for you Romeena, can't replace Bently, but little Diesel can bring joy in the morning back to the family.... Blessings!...

G-F
February 01, 2016 - Msg 103785: Good evening, porch. I've had a lovely, peaceful and restful day. Does anyone else watch "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" on the Hallmark Mystery Movie (HMM) channel? The shows are about a group of postal service investigators, who try to deliver mail that has been undeliverable due to damage or missing information. The stories are very interesting, great writing, very creative, and the casting is great. Eric Mabius plays the male lead, and I just think he's the cats! Anyway, I've really enjoyed the shows. There are more coming up on Feb. 21, according to the ads.

Thanks, G-F. I appreciate the kind words. I don't expect any more grandkids - waiting now for great-grands in a few years - but meantime, there are granddogs to be enjoyed, and I can also be happy for those of you who are still having grandkids.

Today was "Cowboy Church Day" at my church, and it was great. Those of us who wished to do so went dressed in whatever we owned that passed for "western" clothes. I wore jeans, boots, a regular shirt and a denim jacket. Very comfortable! We sang the old hymns - "Old Time Religion", "I'll Fly Away", "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" and several others, and then our pastor finished it all off with a real sermon, detailing what a person must do to be saved, and why salvation is necessary. His sermons are definitely never as "dry as dust." God is good!

Well, guess I'll toddle off to bed. It's early for me, not even midnight yet, but I'm a little tired. Blessings, friends! --Romeena
February 01, 2016 - Msg 103786: Cowboy Church Day huh RO? Sounds neat, but now you got me to thinking about our dear REV and the time I saw his live stream form a biker-type church, God rest his soul. I guess "church" is really anywhere 'two or more are gathered together.' But I sure do miss his comments, and sure hope his family is doing OK these days.
RAIN, wonderful rain!!!, we got some tonight and more to fall throughout tomorrow! No snow like ASA has, but that is fine by me.
RO--so glad they got a new puppy. I bet it helps
the kids to get a new one in their lives too. Also, that is so true what you said about that dear man's passing.
After 15 years of watching some of my mom's room mates, and then some of my dad's, I got to the point to where I just 'knew' that they would not be earthbound the following day. I'd go to their bedside, pray with them, ask them if they had Jesus in their life, and sure enough, the next day that bed would be empty.
GF--thank you for that TAGS show, love that bit about Barn's finger!
Have a blessed week!! BOO, POSSUM, TOM, PH and all
MDC
February 01, 2016 - Msg 103787: Hello to all...checking in.

Very sorry to hear about Bentley but glad to see that they have a new puppy in the house, Ro. That will go a long way in helping those boys, especially. I saw pics of him on facebook. Really cute. :)

Ro, this week we had a little dog wander into our yard and I thought my male dog was going to get him! I brought him in the house and thought he must belong to one of my neighbors. He looked like Maltese to me and had the sweetest disposition. He was a little nervous and wanted to go home but couldn't find his way. He didn't belong to any of the neighbors near us and it turns out he lived in a house two blocks away and he had come through about 10 acres of brush to get to our yard. Poor thing had stickers but was well-groomed and well-mannered. We were able to find his owner that night through a post on facebook. He was reunited with his very happy mom the same night. She said that her grandson was taking some boxes out of the house and left the door open, the dog ran out and they had been spending all evening frantically looking for him. So glad I could reunite them. :) The dog was what the owner called Maltepoo. Half Maltese, half poodle.

Hope you are feeling better, Asa. I thought of you in preachin' this morning. The preacher was teaching on Kind Asa from the old testament. He also said that King Asa suffered from a disease of the feet that might have been gout! lol..no kidding. Anyway, hope you are doing better.

Not a lot of news around here. We are doing ok. Everyone is well right now and busy with school or work.

I took some Melatonin and am getting really sleepy so I think I will hit the ironing board.

Love to all,
Boo
February 01, 2016 - Msg 103788: Good morning, porch! Boo, it's good to hear from you, glad everyone is well. Thank you for helping that little dog! His owner must have been frantic. I know I would be a basket case if little Toye Starr wandered away. She is so tiny and vulnerable, and has absolutely no street smarts at all. She has no idea that a car would run over her, or that another dog she might meet could be unfriendly. She'd trot right up to them and expect a polite greeting, because that's all she's ever known from the family dogs. I would be devastated if anything happened to her. I'm so glad you were able to get that little fellow back to his family.

MDC, after 35 years of hospital nursing, believe me, I know "the look" very well. Actually, I was checking my phone frequently yesterday morning (it was muted) because I fully expected to be notified that a visit to that patient was no longer necessary. They're a sweet family, have been caring for this man at home for a long time, bless them.

The bird traffic out back is amazing this morning. There must be at least 150 birds in my back yard, everything from wrens and chickadees to big old pigeons. Not sure what the attraction is, since I haven't put feed out in two days, but they appear to be finding something yummy! I love watching them, and it's always a thrill when a "stranger" shows up - a bird I can't identify. That's when I go to my "Birds of Texas" book and start digging. The squirrels will show up soon, and the birds will scatter if there are a bunch of them. One or two squirrels aren't scary, but when a mob of them comes charging in, the birds depart! Oh, it's a jungle out there!

Blessings, friends. --Romeena
February 01, 2016 - Msg 103789: Good evening, porch. Where is everybody? I'm feeling kinda lonely.

Asa, I was hunting something for dinner tonight, and what I finally ended up with was pretty good, and took about ten minutes to make. A dish that's good, and easy to make, something I've made a zillion times. As I was pulling things from the fridge and pantry, I thought, "This is something Asa could do!" So, here it is. I started with a can of yellow and white Steamfresh corn, Niblets brand. I drained the little bit of juice off of it, then put it in a medium-sized bowl. I had a couple of broiled chicken legs left from last night, so took the meat off the bones and diced it up into the corn. Drained a can of cut green beans and stirred them in. Added a generous half cup of sour cream and mixed it all together. For me, I added several hefty dashes of Tabasco, but you might not want that. Of course, the sour cream neutralizes the "fire" in the Tabasco, leaving only the flavor, but still, it's optional. Now, to all of that, I stirred in one of the large cans of Campbell's Chipotle Chicken Corn Chowder. You can use the plain Chicken Corn Chowder too, but I like the chiipotle flavor. Stir it all together, pop it in the microwave for two or three minutes, until it's piping hot. Now stir in a big handful of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts. All the ingredients are things I always have on hand, except the chicken legs - that was just luck, and the soup is still good without the added chicken. It's very versatile, you can add just about anything to it, just about any leftovers you might have. Cooked carrots are good in it, some diced onion would be nice (might want to lightly sauté the onion in a little butter in a tiny pan first), probably even a little diced tomato, though I've never tried that. As you can see, the canned soup is the base, and you can add just about anything else you want - it only makes it better. Play with the seasonings too. If you like dill, a little fresh dill would be a nice touch, or some fresh rosemary. Just have fun with it, and know that you can't fail. Campbell's has done all the real work, but it tastes homemade when you're done adding to it.

Well, about three weeks ago, I bought a LED bulb for a low-voltage fixture in the back yard. It's a wedge-base, 20W bulb. In the regular low-voltage bulbs, I can count on anywhere from a week to a month or two of light, then it burns out. This LED bulb is now three weeks old, so it has lasted as long as most incandescent low-voltage bulbs. I'm going to keep track of it, and see just how long it lasts. They cost about twice as much as the regular low-voltage bulbs, but if they'll last even twice as long, it will be worth it. It's a nuisance to be always replacing those bulbs. If I get several months out of it, I'll be just thrilled!

Well, guess I'll go watch a little TV, and then to bed. Maybe I'll get to bed at a reasonable hour for a change. Unless I get started writing. If that happens, I may be up until dawn. Oh well, who cares? I don't. Blessings, porch! --Romeena
February 02, 2016 - Msg 103790: Happy Groundhogs Day. . .remember always keep a jar of Vicks handy!

Guess Who????
February 02, 2016 - Msg 103791: ....I'm not going to live by their rules ANYMORE,..
February 02, 2016 - Msg 103792: I'm going over to see baby Olivia tomorrow, and I made a big pot of tater soup for Mom & Dad.... Sorta like paying a price for admission...lol....Don't think Olivia will be ready for that for a long time...haha

G-F
February 03, 2016 - Msg 103793: GF--have fun, you must be one beaming goober-fife!! :)
ASA--how goes the gout situation?
Ground Hog day--is that you POSSUM?? better stay under your rock! ha
RO- Hope the led lite works. I finally bought some led Christmas lites at
an after Christmas sale. My other sets of C-9 size have been around since 1999!! I finally tossed them out, so the house should be bright enuf to guide in aircraft this coming Christmas! lol
Prayers for all,
MDC
February 03, 2016 - Msg 103794: PS--that "jumblelia" sounds good RO!
February 03, 2016 - Msg 103795: Hey Gang.... It's February 3rd and it's going to be in over 60 degrees today...Wild!.. Hope everyone is doing well...
Asa... Oregano!... Oregano!.. G-F
February 03, 2016 - Msg 103796: Good morning, porch! That soup stuff really is good, MDC, takes about ten minutes to make and uses up a lot of leftovers. You can actually put just about anything in it, but I always add a can of Niblets corn and a can of cut green beans. If you have leftover rice, plop it in. Just about anything that's relatively dry will work. I wouldn't add anything that's watery, really soft or juicy. I suppose a dollop of mashed potatoes would stir in okay, and would just add a little "body" to the soup. Really, just experiment. I once put a small leftover of mac and cheese in it. Worked fine. I keep that Chicken Corn Chowder soup on hand, and when I don't know what to have for dinner, I open that can and start cleaning out the fridge! It's definitely not a low-calorie or low-fat dish, but it's good.

Well, got to go teach a little English this morning. One of my favorite students won't be there, he left last weekend to return to El Salvador. I'll miss him. He struggled very hard with the language, but he was a nice guy, very polite and respectful, and funny! He kept us laughing. I wish him well.

Blessings! --Romeena
February 03, 2016 - Msg 103797: That recipe sounds good, Romeena. Though I don't think I could handle all that corn(doesn't like me).

MDC, speaking of recipes, have you tried any more of the crock pot dump meals?
Aside from the pork chop one, I recently tried the pulled pork one. It was pretty good. Although I probably would have liked it better if I didn't know what was in it, because I could taste the root beer. I might have put too much in(I used one of the single bottles instead of a can of it, and I think there might be more in the bottle).

Just got done with having Kai home from school for the second day in a row due to the snow. They cancelled Tuesday in advance of that big storm we got. Then today it wasn't too bad, but they cancelled anyway. I guess because we had freezing rain along with some more snow last night.
I do have to give some praise to our road crews around here though and the excellent job they do after a snow fall. Just one day after the big storm, and there was not a lick of snow on the freeways today when I was out on them. I mean not a snowflake. It's quite an amazing feat when you think about it. Some of the roads in town aren't so great, but they are passable, and they get them cleared more completely in pretty good time.

Over 60 degrees, G-F? I'm jealous. Temps have actually gone down here. But then they always do after some snow.

-Sterling Holobyte
February 03, 2016 - Msg 103798: Just got back from my Daughters... Grandpa Goob still has the touch!. Much like her mother, Olivia likes to sleep on my chest, if I recall back in the day I didn't have as much sprawling out room as I do now..haha. I forgot just how animated babies are while they sleep... Yep, it was a fun day... Soup was good too if I don't say so myself!..... G-F
February 04, 2016 - Msg 103799: Hi, just a quick Gilly drive by tonite.
I joined a health club today and started with a pretty good work out.
Stering, yes, I made the Knockwurst and cabbage. Mmm,
that was great. Being of German descent, I may have a natural taste for it.
Only 52 here today GF, what gives? ha
MDC
February 04, 2016 - Msg 103800:
Our weather here in Southern Ontario (Canada) has been unusually spring like. Yesterday (Wednesday), Toronto achieved a high temperature of 15.5 degrees Celsius. That's the equivalent of 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Not only did that break the high temperature record for that day by six degrees, it also became the warmest day ever recorded for Toronto during the month of February. It was strange to see people outside wearing sweaters and no jackets.

from Poor Horatio
February 04, 2016 - Msg 103801: Now I am really wishing we had some of that warm weather. Our furnace just went on the fritz again. Sounds like the motor is jammed or something. But that is what it did before, and then they replaced the capacitor and it quieted it down... for a while. But even they said the furnace would eventually have to be replaced, because it is really old.
Will have to see how it goes. Maybe I can get by with a new motor, if that's what it is. But I may have to spring for a whole new furnace. I haven't even started paying off the new water heater yet.
Oh well, when it rains, it pours.

MDC, I am making the "tender pot roast" recipe today. Hopefully will be good.

And maybe Noah and I can huddle around the crock pot for warmth until the HVAC guys get here.
Nah, just kidding. I am going to break out the portable oil heaters we have.

-Sterling Holobyte
February 04, 2016 - Msg 103802:
Sterling Holobyte, check out http://tinyurl.com/gwdj8m7
If you decide to purchase a new high efficiency furnace, then check your state's web site to see if they offer any energy rebates or grants. Search the internet using your state name along with "energy" and "rebates" as your keywords. Or visit http://energy.gov/eere/femp/energy-incentive-programs and http://energy.gov/savings for more help.

from Poor Horatio
February 04, 2016 - Msg 103803:

Forgot to turn the bold off.

from Poor Horatio
February 04, 2016 - Msg 103804:
If at first you don't succeed, try try again.


from Poor Horatio
February 04, 2016 - Msg 103805:
Sterling Holobyte, that first link I posted in Msg 13802 does not work because I left out a period that is required in the URL. So try this instead http://tinyurl.com/zokac9o

from Poor Horatio
February 04, 2016 - Msg 103806: Sterling, keep in mind new doesn't always mean better. The new stuff brings new problems. Unless the "heat exchanger" is bad, most everything else is still replaceable. Much less than a new furnace. A lot of shady HVAC guys will condem a furnace just to sell you a "new" one... I think Asa will concur with my opinion... But if it HAS to come down to that PH gave you some good links to check out... Good Luck.. G-F
February 04, 2016 - Msg 103807: Good afternoon, porch! I just got back from picking Eloise and Jerry up at the airport and taking them home. They've been on a cruise - said they had a wonderful time, and I'm sure they did. I'm glad they're back. With Eloise gone, I didn't have anybody to run and play with!

Well, I satisfied my curiosity, and now I feel better. A few months back, I was seeing a home health patient in a home about a half mile from me. It's in a nice neighborhood, nice houses all around, but that house was a wreck. Clutter everywhere, but that wasn't the problem. It was utterly filthy. It stunk, the floor was sticky, and it was carpeted, believe it or not. Sticky carpet! The worst problem was the bugs. I think they must have had to go in with a whip and a chair to get the bugs out of there. Roaches just wandered around the room, walking on the chair my patient was sitting in, one walked across her foot and she just gave a little kick and tossed it away. Trust me, those were short visits! I left my purse in the car - not about to carry it in there. My "visit bag" has to go in with me, but I was very careful where I put it down, and I sprayed the bottom of it with insect repellent before I went on the calls. I showered when I got home. Honestly, it was awful.

Well, the patient sold it to one of those "buy as is" guys, and I've been watching the improvements over the months. Today, there's a "For Sale" sign out front, and the door was open, so I checked it out. It's a really nice house! Big, roomy, a fireplace in the master bedroom, all fresh paint, new roof, new appliances, really nice. I couldn't help wondering - if my patient could move back into it, I wonder how long it would be before it was trashed again? Some people just seem to bring squalor with them. She was actually a sweet person - funny, interesting to talk to, very kind-hearted, but just dirty. What can I say? Anyway, I'm glad to see that house fixed up and it should provide a nice home for a family again. The former owner moved to a different suburb and is renting now. I pity the person she's renting from. I would never, ever, have rented to her, not knowing what I know.

Well, guess I'll go take finish folding laundry. Blessings, friends! --Romeena