March 10, 2017 - Msg 107011: HI ALL, just a quick hello tonight. As a switch,
I had to take my wife to the doc today for a varicose vein procedure, and then they will do the other leg next week, which was another incentive to get myself off the hydrcodone last week. (so I could be the driver today)
All went well with her procedure. But it was so funny tonight, as we were BOTH in bed with our feet elevated!
Well, enjoy the various weather patterns.
Prayers,
MDC
March 11, 2017 - Msg 107012: It all happened so fast! I mean Whoosh and the last screen was gone!

Good sweep, MDC!

Good to hear wife's procedure was all good! I hope you had everything you needed at bedside! Who was going to get up and get what you needed?! LOL!

Night All!

John Masters
March 11, 2017 - Msg 107013: Good morning all. I see MDC's rehab is coming along nice as he has swept up the porch. Good job MDC. I hope your swelling issue resolves itself.

John, I would offer you this thought if you decide to buy a new rider. Consider buying through a dealer than a big box store. The big box stores offer good prices on name brand machines, but they are built cheaper for that very reason. The machines sold through dealers are built better. So although you might save some money initially buying through Lowes or Home Depot, you will end up paying more on repairs in the long all. Unless you are able to do the repairs yourself, and don't mind that, your better off buying through a dealer. Case in point, Back in 2002 I bought a new machine for a great price at H.D. I was happy enough with it until about 4 years into it when I noticed it seemed to be cutting my grass uneven. I started checking the mower deck apparatus and seeing if something on it had come loose somewhere. Everything seemed ok, but I did notice that the entire mower seemed to be leaning a bit to one side. I kept checking tire pressure, and everything I could imagine. Well finally I realized what was going on. Part of the front axle strut had bent causing the machine to lean on that side. So I removed the tire, removed the strut, put it in a vice, heated it up with my torch and got it straight. I reinstalled it and was pleased for about 5 minutes until I saw it was leaning once again. So I removed it again and realized that the axle shaft was cracked right where it was welded to the strut support. It really wasn't anything I could repair because of where it was welded, so I ordered a new entire strut. That was only $26.00 so I wasn't too upset. It showed up, I installed it and was back in business. I never gave it much more thought until the following year and I noticed uneven cuts again. That's when I realized the strut on the other side had done the exact same failure. That was when I knew it was not a fluke, but a design flaw. So I ordered a new one for that side and replaced it. Then I started having some engine problems that I was able to repair myself thank goodness. But it was starting to fall apart. What I was paying for parts was not outlandish, but had I been forced to take it in the shop for these repairs, I would have been in trouble. Anyway, 3 years ago I got tired of working on the thing every spring, so I broke down and bought a new Snapper rider through a dealer. Wow, what a huge difference in quality. Anyway, just something to consider. Also, there is a difference between a riding mower and a lawn tractor. It sounds like you might want something heavier duty like a lawn tractor rather than a riding mower. I only have an acre that I mow, and it is flat, and that is pretty much all I do is mow with it. Anyway, good luck. There are a couple of brands I would suggest you stay away from if you are interested though.

Asa
March 11, 2017 - Msg 107014: Oops, Boo. I also meant to tell you I hope you are feeling better. I have been fighting a cold all week. But I think it is doing better now. Hall's used to have a lozenge that contained Zinc, Echinacea, and Vitamin C in them. At the first hint of a cold I would start sucking on a few of those and by the next day, the cold was history. I swore by those things. But this year I have not been able to find them anywhere. And I have had 3 colds since October. I have tried other products, but non of them seem to work like the Halls stuff did. Plus their stuff wasn't bad tasting, like a cherry cough drop. Oh well, what are you gonna do?

Asa

March 11, 2017 - Msg 107015: Morning, folks!

Asa - Yeah, I could use some good advice. But the problem is I am on a budget up to about $1,000 for a mower. So I dont know if that is going to limit me much or not?! I havent gotten out yet to do any mower shopping. But I would appreciate you steering me thru this!

Boo - My "get well" sentiments too. I havent had a cold in about a year, so I imagine MY clock is ticking.

Hey to G-F, MDC, Romeena, SPOT, TOM and the rest of you that called the courthouse looking for Ethel.

John Masters
March 11, 2017 - Msg 107016: ASA--what are ya gonna do? Just buy a bottle of Echinacea, Vitamin C, and Zinc, and swallow them down the hatch! haha Just sayin'.
TAGS on ME-TV last night was the one with Jerry Van Dyke as the "sultan." He is right up there with Warren IMHO. He just bothers me to no end in that ep! (Almost as bad as cousin Virgil too! haha)
My swelling IS going down a bit. Thx for the prayers. Have a good Saturday!
MDC
March 11, 2017 - Msg 107017: Oh, and John, with us both laying with feet elevated last night, we had a quarter between us to "flip" if needed! ha How's that for marital compromise? :)

March 11, 2017 - Msg 107018: Cousin Virgil had to be the most annoying character on the show, ever. Sort of like most color episodes, you wonder how SOMEONE didn't realize how awful it was before airing it.

With the time change, I reckon some people will be late for preaching tomorrow. But then again, what's your hurry?

Billy Ray the Television Critic Postman
March 12, 2017 - Msg 107019: Good Sabbath everyone.

I do take the supplements individually, but they just have not worked. Maybe it has just been a bad year or something. But while on the subject, what is your opinion of probiotics? Just curious.

Billy Ray, I guess you could say Virgil's charter was supposed to be annoying so he played the part well. I have always kind of felt sorry for him. I have known a few people like him in real life. Folks who really lack any confidence in anything and have always been the brunt of teasing and mocking. Sometimes from their own family. Some finally find their niche and become successful in something. Sadly others never seem to move on.

John, with a $1.000.00 budget I don't think you will find much more than a lower end big box store machine. That or you might be able to find a used better quality machine, but that is always a roll of the dice. I have read a lot of issues with Troy Built riders and deck belts. So I might shy away from that brand. Troy Built used to be a top notch outfit but were bought out I heard by MTD. Amazingly MTD makes some decent low end machines. Anyway, just some thoughts.

Well another spring, another time change. The 47 hour weekend, as if they were not short enough anyway.

Boo, I hope you are feeling better.

Romeena, I have heard of some type of dental apparatus you can wear that is supposed to do away with the CPAP mask. Something about how it keeps your lower jaw from going slack which they say is where a lot of sleep apnea originates. But I don't know much about it.

Well I think I'll go rustle up some grub before preaching or my belly will be growling.

Prayers for all.

Asa
March 12, 2017 - Msg 107020: TOM... I'll put up the snow fence, they say a Big one is on the way, we may have to call Dick Goddard out of retirement for this one Buddy!..
"In Goddard We Trust" as they say in our area..Right?.....

G-F...
March 12, 2017 - Msg 107021: Good Sabbath to all! Good sermon this morning
on the Transfiguration of Jesus. Definitely not
dry as dust, but very interesting about the fulfillment of the law (Moses) and the prophets (Elijah).
Hope you all have a relaxing afternoon.
MDC
March 12, 2017 - Msg 107022: OH ASA, after finding out that my "withdrawal" from the hydrocodone was partly to blame for my gut feeling so poorly, my wife did get me to start on
a probiotic; and it seems to be helping!
And BOO--my prayers continue for Christian. mdc
March 12, 2017 - Msg 107023: Good Sabbath, Everyone!

Asa - If you had a thousand dollar budget, which brand would you use? IS there a good one out there for that price?!

MDC & Billy Ray - I wasn't a big fan or Warren, but I loved to see how Andy got so bent out of shape with him. He sure didnt work out the same as Don Knotts, but "The Bazaar" was a perfecting set for what was about to come! Virgil got under my skin too. When he did something, it was like he made too many faces in his embarrassment. Just settin' here, I cant think of anyone who really got under....oh, wait a minute....I just thought of one! Howard Sprague's mother! Oooooo, she got my goose! She was REALLY irritating in the beginning of "The Lodge!" Yep...I go with Mrs. Sprague!

Boo - Are ya' out there?! LOL! Hopefully you arent missing because youre flat on your back. I hope not! Next thing you know, you'll have Emmett trying to fix ya' up a lamp and Goober and Howard coming in when youre trying to sleep!

Romeena - My FIL has a CPAP too. He has had to change his mask because he lost over 150 lbs. and his face isnt as full anymore. He told me and the wife that it kept slipping off his face in the night.

Good Sabbath to G-F, possum, SPOT, TOM and the rest of you missing. You guys can still visit. You don't need to wait for the official verification!
March 12, 2017 - Msg 107024: Good evening gang !..John,MDC we had a good race today...Kyle got a little out of hand ...:o Prayers Boo...well Mr. Winter has payed us a visit here in Ga...down below freezing tonight..but that's ok...Lucy you out there...Maude? Billy Ray Virgil was in a mivie called Next Of Kin..Patrick Swayze...hotel clerk...any of yall see it...not bad...ok gona run reports..im here all night....prayers...SPOT
March 12, 2017 - Msg 107025: I'm here but still ailin'. Took lots of Zinc, Vit C, Echinacea, fluids, cough medicine, Vicks, throat lozenges, cough medicine, cold medicine...anyway, finally starting to feel better but not well yet. I made the mistake of taking Erin and her friends to San Antonio for the quincinera they had to be in and I really shouldn't have. I was pretty miserable by the end of the night and coughing my fool head off. I felt like someone sandpapered my throat. We decided not to stay the night and drove home last night. I don't usually drive at night but I needed to get home to my own bed. Turns out, it was a wonderful drive..no traffic at all..no big trucks on the road, as there usually is. We made it home in and hour and 45 minutes, which is great. I took me a warm shower, some prescription cough medicine and slept. I woke up coughing now and then but not too much. I have been taking it easy today and drinking lots of water. I am getting well and expect tomorrow will be a much better day. Thanks for the get well wishes.

On the bright side, I did get to eat at the Alamo Café in San Antonio last night and its always good.

See you all tomorrow.

Boo
March 13, 2017 - Msg 107026: Those of us in the Northeast are hearing the "Jaws" theme as the snow storm approaches... It's suppose to start this afternoon, continuing thru Wednesday. Plus a double whammy of "Lake Effect" snow on top of it all!...

Better get moving,I have a lot to do before it starts. I had a tire blow out and need to get it replaced today...

G-Flurries....❄️❄️❄️
March 13, 2017 - Msg 107027: Good Monday morning all.

Hey GF, It sounds like you folks are in for a big one. Gonna make up for being such a mild winter huh? Be careful.

Boo, So sorry you are still sick. No fun a-tall! Take care of yourself Dear.

John, as I mentioned, for a $1,000.00 you are not going to have a lot of choices. But I would shy away from Troy Built. I have heard a lot of negative reviews on them.

MDC, I hope your Dr. appointment goes well today.

Guess I better go see what Monday morning brings. Seems like the gremlins spend the weekend here sometimes and tear apart everything. I hate it when that happens.

Prayers for all.

Asa
March 13, 2017 - Msg 107028: HEY ALL.
Jail time for some one?
Rom not going to asked about the photo that i send you from fbc?

TOM
March 13, 2017 - Msg 107029: GF, TOM, PH, Possum, Spot, Maudie, Sterling, baton down the hatches, buy supplies, etc, it sure sounds like a
big nor'easter is coming your way.
Prayers for you all that will pass OK, and
prayers for Boo! Get well dear.
Hate to say it, but 85 forecast for us today!
MDC
March 13, 2017 - Msg 107030: I hope GF has the toilet paper to swing it! :)

Asa
March 13, 2017 - Msg 107031: Good afternoon, porch. Beautiful day here, sunny and warm at 65°, going to be in the 70s and low 80s for the rest of the week. My sympathies for you folks in the path of that blizzard. That's just so hard to imagine, as I sit here looking out at tulips, snapdragons, daffodils, irises, pansies and budding trees. My redbud out front is in full bloom. Yes, I know, our summers are brutal, but the most uncomfortably warm I can remember ever being was one early August in Michigan with the in-laws. The temp was in the high 90s, the humidity was so heavy I felt like I was drinking the air, and there was no a/c! They don't think they need it. That was in the early 60s, and I guess more people have a/c now, but back then, more didn't than did! Did you ever take a cool shower, and then have trouble getting your clothes on, because you can't get dry, because you're sweating as fast as you can dry it off? Not fun.

TOM, I guess I missed it. I don't visit Facebook very often, but thank you for thinking of me. I'll go back and see if I can find it.

I guess I'll have David and the boys over here for dinner one night this week. Brittney went to Rome, Italy, with her mom (Eloise), and her sister. They've been planning this trip for a very long time, and finally the timing and the finances all came together, and they went. Brittney's brother works for an airline, and he was able to get them some really good fares. So, the boys are on their own. Guess I'll have to put my pork-chop-fryin' hat on and feed them. The girls will be back next Sunday.

Boo, it sounds like you had a lollapaloozer of a cold! Sorry, love! I'm glad you're feeling a bit better. Wish I could send you a fruit cream slush from Sonic. When I have a really sore throat, I just crave those things! Luckily, there's a Sonic just down at the far end of my street. Once when I had a terrible strep throat, couldn't even swallow my own spit, I called to see if they delivered. I knew they didn't, but was desperate. As luck would have it, the phone was answered by the manager, and she asked if I was sick. (I wanted to say, "No, I'm actually a talking frog"), but I didn't. She asked where I was, I said I was about a quarter mile from her, and she said to give her ten minutes then open my garage door. I did, she pulled into my driveway and handed me that wonderful cherry cream slush, refused my money, and went back to work. Now, is that customer service, or what? I wrote the main offices of Sonic and told them about it. I hope she got a raise.

Well, gotta run. I'm winding down on the book, and need to put a little more work into it tonight, hope to get the final copy submitted this week. It's been a long, long road, but it's been a labor of love. If it makes any money, I won't refuse it, but that wasn't the point. It was just something God put on my heart, and I knew I had to write it.

Blessings, friends. --Romeena
March 13, 2017 - Msg 107032: Lol Asa....You KNOW a good Maintenance guy is ALWAYS prepared!! 👍 I Just came back from the Walmart and that WAS on my short list of "snowed in" supplies to pick up.
Looks like it's gonna be a Doosy!...🙏

G-F....
March 14, 2017 - Msg 107033: Well, at my follow up appt at the surgeon's office today, he told me that he thinks the swelling in my leg is a homatoma that has settled deep inside the calf. I am going to have an MRI done, and then he may try to 'suck' it out with a syringe. I have sure
been thru the dictionary with this thing, but I'm sure the answer to your prayers was me finding this all out today. God does indeed work in mysterious ways!! :)
MDC
March 14, 2017 - Msg 107034: Good morning all.

Sorry to hear about that MDC, but glad it is nothing worse. I hope they can resolve it with minimum efforts. In the mean time, you got anything we can loosen? ;)

That was a nice story about the Sonic gal Romeena. And good for you for reaching out to Corporate. I seldom complain to business owners about shoddy service (I reckon I have become used to it), but I do like to give a shout out when I see someone who excels in their jobs. I have never understood how these huge retailers will spend millions of dollars in advertising to try and get you in their doors, only to be greeted by a snarky clerk or salesperson who seems to care less if you are there. One of the reasons I like In-N-Out burger joints so much. They obviously have trained their folks in the art of customer service. I am always treated with a smiley face and a cheerful attitude. Makes all the difference in the world to me.

GF, Tom, I hope you ain't buried too bad in the white stuff. Gonna be 72 here today. Not bragging, but I ain't complaining either. lol

Asa
March 14, 2017 - Msg 107035: Asa JUST FOR THAT 72 YOU ARE GOING TO THE BIG HOUSE WHERE COLD.

TOM
March 14, 2017 - Msg 107036: Asa, I'll bring you a peanut butter sammich after I get done shoveling my snow.

Boo, that scarf sure came in handy this morning while I shoveled round one of our snow storm. It is really blowing and that wind cuts thru you, and the scarf sure helped stop that!
THANKS AGAIN!!....

Goob wins the first round 🥊👍....
March 14, 2017 - Msg 107037: Morning Porch!

Have been absent as I was a little "under the weather" myself. No cold or anything. Just rundown and wore out.

Asa - Any thoughts on Husqvarna or any brands at say Sears?

Boo - Hope to see you again here soon! Looks like you've almost nipped that cold in the bud!

G-F - I have EarthCam where you see live shots of different places around the world. At 11:30 am central time, it looks like from Boston to Chicago just has a little more than a dusting. Traffic is fine and things are moving well.

Romeena - That story about SONIC is awesome!

Gotta go. Small crisis. Nothing big.

John Masters
March 14, 2017 - Msg 107038: Ok, crisis averted. Everything OK.

MDC - I agree with Asa, good thing it wasnt something worse and it was pinpointed! Hopefully, this next procedure will put an end to this stringing out!

Back to Rommena - That sure was nice of them. Heck, in this day and age, you can't hardly get a fast food worker to give you a "Youre Welcome" or a smile! You got very lucky!....and very blessed!

Raining snow here in mid southern Missouri. No accumulation. Is pretty to watch out my window and across the many acres behind me.

Ok, gonna go for now. Hey to SPOT, TOM, and everyone else we have yet to hear from. Say...think they are trapped in that same cave where Andy and Helen was?!

John Masters


March 14, 2017 - Msg 107039: Thanks for the sympathy, Ro. I appreciate it. I am going to have to try one of those crème slushes from Sonic. Can you believe I never have?! I remember when the Sonic employee did that for you. She was nice..real nice. :) Very cool about Eloise and her girls getting to go to Rome. I wish you could have gone, too, but I guess someone had to take care of the boys.

Sorry about the leg, Steve. That doesn't sound like any fun at all...wonder if they would put you out for that? Maybe Ro knows. I don't think I have ever cared for anyone with that particular situation this long after-the-fact.

Glad you are putting that scarf to use, G-F!

I'm here John Masters..feeling a lot better but still somewhat puny and some congestion in my sinuses. I slept in today since Erin is on spring break and I don't go back to work till the weekend. I am going to have to pay someone to sit on me to make me rest this week, though. I wanted to get a lot done but we will see. Yesterday while I was at work, Sean did a lot of the laundry, cleaned up and reorganized my laundry room and the pantry closet under the stairs. Wow! Such a difference, bless his heart.

Well, time to get something to drink and put my feet up for awhile. I managed to cook supper and do a couple loads of remaining laundry but now I think it is time for some TAGS.

Boo
March 14, 2017 - Msg 107040: One thing I forgot to mention, concerning Asa's comments about recognizing those who go above and beyond. While I was working in labor and delivery, I was there 14 years and had one person compliment the care I gave her to my supervisor, and she was someone I knew already. lol I always had a little self-doubt because I always gave 100% and was a good nurse. I always got great evaluations from my bosses and was appreciated by my fellow employees. Frankly, I got many compliments from doctors and coworkers, there were even doctors who asked me to care for their patients, but never a thank you note or anything from a patient. I have questioned that in in my mind..maybe I wasn't kind enough...did I come across as unfeeling? I tried and I was always really fast with the pain medicine or epidurals. Oh well, I guess I will never know. It doesn't matter now, I guess. Now that I have been a patient myself, I think people have good intentions but once they go home with a new baby, they forget or are too exhausted.

Well...gotta go.

Boo
March 14, 2017 - Msg 107041: Evenin' Porch

Well, all is quiet in the household. It's a cold but starry night and outside, it is as quiet as a closed library.

Boo - Wonderful boy you got there! Sounds like he paid you back for your TLC toward his sickness. I second the sentiment...bless his heart.

I remember years ago, a young girl was working in a KMart in Kansas City and I was coming thru her line. She was working frantically to calm a person who was upset, about what I dont know, and she was running back and forth to the register on the other side of me to get some information for someone else. By the time she checked me out, she was sweating so much, she had it dripping off her nose. After I left her line, I searched for a supervisor, pointed her and out and told him how hard she was working and said "You need to reward her somehow!" I dont know if she ever was, but I wanted her hustle to be noticed!

Well, 'bout that time to call it a night. Y'all have a restful and peaceful night! And if y'all cant sleep, tell Gomer to shut the vacuum off and go to his room!

John Masters
March 14, 2017 - Msg 107042: ^^^ I meant to say "pointed her out"

JM
March 15, 2017 - Msg 107043: Well, I think the bulk of the storm is behind us, although I just got done cleaning up 4" of "Lake Effect" snow. This will continue throughout the day as bands of snow come off Lake Erie... But "That's Life"... as Gomer says.

Even though I'm retired I still get out first thing in the morning and take care of the snow shoveling/blowing. I guess that's the maintenance man in me, Amen Asa?...

Again I thank Boo for her kindness to a stranger for the scarf, when I use the snow blower it sure helps!. When the wind is blowing the snow flys where it wants to...Another Amen Asa?...lol

Time for a hot cup of coffee ☕️ 👍 Later Gang...

G-F
March 15, 2017 - Msg 107044: Morning, folks!

G-F - Yeah, looks like you are in for a day of a warm house, warm food and maybe TAGS.

I was watching some of TAGS last night and a few things jumped out at me that I hadn't noticed. For example:
When Aunt Bee buys the 150 lbs. of beef and is taking it to Mr. Foley's in the wagon, why is she going in the wrong direction? When Andy come out of the courthouse, Foley's market is to his right, just a few doors down from the courthouse. But when he spots Aunt Bee and Opie, they are across the street, going to Andy's left.

Also...when Barney thinks he is the descendant of Nathan Tibbs, he makes reference that he IS sensitive. All the Fifes were sensitive. Yet in "Opie and the Spoiled Kid", when Andy and Opie are discussing the .75 cent rule, Barney makes it clear that, one thing he is NOT, is sensitive!

In "Three Gossipin' Men" did you notice that, in Walker's drug store is Aunt Bee, Emma Watson / Brand and Rose? Yet Opie doesnt seem to be fazed that Rose is right in front of him? LOL! I know, I know...same actress playing a different character.

I guess TAGS had their "stock" actors like Jerry Lewis and director John Ford had theirs. Notice how the same actors appeared in Jerry Lewis' and John Wayne movies?

Ok, gang, the day is getting started. I better catch it. I hope you all have a good one! Take care!

John Masters
March 15, 2017 - Msg 107045: G F No coffee for you!
You job of snow shoveling the city street it not done.
good thing that lake effect snow stay right there!

happy str TOM

March 15, 2017 - Msg 107046: Stock actors? How about the Hallmark movies! Now don't get me wrong, I love 'em! I watch them all the time, on both Hallmark channels. They're clean, they're fun, and I enjoy them. However, they do use the same stable of actors over and over again, which is fine with me. The plots don't vary a whole lot either - beautiful young woman is struggling to make a living, either with a small bakery, a flower shop, or whatever. She has a boyfriend, usually a sleazy lawyer who is all wrong for her and just wants her for show, because she's very pretty, but she doesn't see it. She also has met some really nice guy who made a bad first impression and she wants nothing to do with him. She has a girl-friend, a co-worker, or a sister - some female buddy - who is doesn't like the lawyer guy and is urging her to give the new guy a chance. Finally the slimy boyfriend slips up, she sees the truth, and marries the good guy. With minor variations, that's pretty much the stock plot, portrayed by the stock actors. Still fun!

Joe was here today, finished the pruning that needed to be done, planted a couple of flats of fresh color, spread corn gluten meal and dry molasses everywhere, and the yard looks great! Irises are opening everywhere, and the amaryllis are all bearing buds the size of lemons. When they open, they're going to be spectacular. The ones I brought into bloom in the house during the winter are through, the bloom stalks are drying up, and in a couple of weeks I'll trim them back and plant them outside, where they'll live and bloom forevermore! Next winter, I'll start a few more in the house. They are SO pretty!

Well, guess I'll go rustle up something to eat. Blessings, friends. --Romeena
March 15, 2017 - Msg 107047: One of those cookie cutter Hallmark movies is a meme in our family. I was at my sister's house. My nephew and I had used up all our TV watching rights on football, and so my niece, his sister, had right of first refusal, and no other sets available to watch. And she chose to watch a movie about a woman that works at a perfume counter, Christmas is coming, blah blah blah. I guess she was about 13, just impressionable enough that she thought it was romantic or something. We struggled through it for a half hour and my nephew, about 9, piped up and said "This has got to be the most boring movie in the history of the world." I agreed, we laughed about it, and my niece fumed. Of course the story got passed around the family. In any event, any time after that any of us found ourselves in a boring situation, someone is sure to say "This is more boring than the perfume lady."

Billy Ray the Movie Critic Postman
March 15, 2017 - Msg 107048: Billy Ray...sounds like you are talking about one of my favorite Christmas movies...the one I'm thinking of isn't a hallmark movie but is shown on hallmark channel sometimes. It stars Minnie Driver and is called The Christmas List, I think. Wonder if it's the same one? Woman works at perfume counter...going nowhere with a longterm boyfriend who won't commit..she figures out what a loser he is when she meets Mr. Right...just as Ro described 😊

I don't often watch the hallmark romantic movies...a little slow moving for me but I watch some of them at Christmas time.

I'm still feeling kinda of yucky and congested but I'm on the mend. Hope you all have a good night.

Boo
March 16, 2017 - Msg 107049: Well, I'm getting this in on the Ides of March whilst it STILL IS the Ides of March! ha
My MRI went well today, and thank God I only had my legs in the tube, and
not my head! Even with earplugs, the clanking sounds were amazing. Worse than a new pea in Barney's whistle! Machines like that ought not to clank so! Anyway, I was "on the table" for about 40 minutes, and it was SO cold in that room, I think I was in a morgue. So now the surgeon will get the results and we'll see what's next! It was 92 in Phx today, so it was so nice to be able to thaw out when it was done.
GF--glad you made it thru OK. Good on you for getting out there with the snow shovel!
TOM, SPOT, POSSUM, MAUDE, STERLING, you all doing OK??
John, you are a good "trained Noticer my friend!"
BOO--maybe a good What-a-Burger with chiles will get rid of the final vestiges of your cold. :)
Prayers continue for Christian. Do u know how he's doing?
Praise Jesus,
MDC

March 16, 2017 - Msg 107050: Woo Hoo..26 degrees here in ga this morning...im fixing to head home to snooze its about 5:30 am ...prayers SPOT
March 16, 2017 - Msg 107051: Brrr! Spot, that's cold! I can't get used to the idea of it being cold in Georgia. That's Deep South, it's not supposed to be cold there! It's only 58° here in the Dallas area, but I switched back to the furnace, because it's cold in this house! I've been switching back and forth from a/c to heat for quite a while. I think my HVAC system is about to have a spell. I suppose I could just put on a sweater, but I don't think I should have to be bundled up in my own home, for heaven's sake! And then there's tiny Toye Starr. She's down there on the floor, where it's even colder, and as small as she is, she doesn't have much fat on her little body to insulate her. She doesn't have that layer of downy fur that most dogs have either, she just has silky hair. She's been all snuggled up in one of her cuddle beds, but the house is warming up, so she'll be up playing in a few minutes. She has about a dozen toys scattered out on the floor, and about three dozen more in her toy box. She'll spend the day moving them around, all over the house. That is, after the mailman has come and gone. Until then, she'll remain in her entryway bed, watching for him. (Yes, she has a cuddlebed in every room that we use. I know, she's spoiled, I did it, and I don't care. How do you not spoil a fluffy little thing that weighs 4.6 lbs, and thinks you're God's representative on earth?)

Well, enough of that. Everybody stay warm and dry today, and let's all meet at Spring Creek for dinner tonight. I've got a 2 for 1 coupon! Check your mail, you probably have one too. We can share with the ones who don't, and all eat for half price! --Romeena
March 16, 2017 - Msg 107052: Hi All
It going to be a nice day called for
40 degrees!
M D C Yes I m o k just a little snow here.
Happy Birthday to MAVIS have a good one?

TOM.
March 16, 2017 - Msg 107053: A Good Morning to the Porch!

Boo - I think maybe a few cups of Colonel Harvey's Elixir will do the trick!

MDC - Fingers crossed for a good report! Thanks for the "Noticer" compliment. I know there are a lot of continuity flaws in TAGS that everyone knows about (Andy's address changing, Taylors have a spare room, then they DON'T have a spare room, etc.), but sometimes there are some that kinda ooze out that maybe not everyone sees.

Romeena - Hey, you go right ahead and spoil her! At night, our little cat, Sadie, comes right up between the wife and I and will go under our covers and sleep with us like a child scared of a thunderstorm! We love her to death! She's the cats! Literally!

Hey to SPOT, TOM, Asa, Billy Ray, G-F, and the missing Porch friends! 'Bout time to put out an APB on 'em!
Y'all have a great Thursday!

John Masters
March 16, 2017 - Msg 107054: https://townhall.com/columnists/derekhunter/2017/03/16/theyre-coming-for-your-children-n2299306

Hey Folks,
I know we were trying to keep the Porch on the light side, but I advise you all read the above. You're NOT going to believe the part about the red, white and blue! God seriously help our kids!

John Masters
March 16, 2017 - Msg 107055: Elixir...yeah, maybe. :)

It has been nothing but warm here on the coast, Romeena. Keep little Starr warm.

Almost feeling normal today. Had to take Erin up to see a friend in the children's hospital. Her bestie, Bree, was throwing up for several days and then having abdominal pain..turns out she has a mass in her liver..probably fibrous but they are doing labs to decide if they need to do a biopsy..please remember Bree and her mom in your prayers.

MDC, meant to tell you that the last night I worked I found out the Christian was transferred to the local mental hospital after he threatened suicide. That is where he needs to be right now coming off all the drugs that were in his system. He will probably be brought back to us in a few days.

I took the dog for her final heartworm injection and she did much better this time. I am giving her pain medicine and steroids and she is fine this time. I am so glad it is over. She has been the best dog in the world. She is terrified each time she has to go to the vet, but she cooperates and is very submissive. Sweet dog. I hope she gets well and stays well.

Better go..

Boo
March 17, 2017 - Msg 107056: Hi All.
Happy ST. Patrick's Day!

TOM :(
March 17, 2017 - Msg 107057: Happy St. Patrick's Day to everybody! Thought I'd stop by,seeing as how this is the only day that I use my "given" name-ha!

********************
o'possum under a rock
March 17, 2017 - Msg 107058: Lol...Possum....Oh I mean...O'possum....☘️🍀
March 17, 2017 - Msg 107059: HI
THIS IS A SAD DAY FOR ME!
BECAUSE IT MY MOTHER BIRTHDAY!

TOM
March 17, 2017 - Msg 107060: Top o' the mornin' to ye all! Happy St. Patrick's Day! O'possum, you're a caution! We're so blessed here on this porch. Not only do we have a resident possum, but she's funny too!

Boo, thanks for the update on Christian. So glad he's in that facility. As you said, he's where he needs to be right now. Poor kid, I hope he can defeat his demons and get in control of his life. Also, I'm so sorry to hear about Bree's troubles. I would imagine Erin is very worried and upset. Please tell her that we'll be praying for her friend.

John Masters, I'm glad I'm not the only one who allows critters in my bed. My mom loved dogs almost as much as I do, but she would NOT have allowed one to sleep in her bed. I can't imagine not having little Toye Starr cuddled up with me. Her warm little body up against my back, and the tiny snores she makes - well, it's just so sweet. I wouldn't be able to sleep, if I knew she was trying to keep warm somewhere on the floor. Obviously you know what I mean, and nothing cuddles quite like a cat. I don't have one, but two of my kids do, in addition to their dogs, and I enjoy them very much. I guess my favorite is Kitty Mama, a little feral cat that my daughter took in. She promptly delivered three kittens, daughter found homes for them, had Kitty Mama spayed, and she now reigns in the household. Two dogs step aside to let her pass! She's hilarious. She's a tiny cat, probably about six or seven pounds, very sweet. When there's company and everyone is gathered in the living room talking, she comes in, sits down very primly in the middle of things, and listens. She looks directly at whoever is speaking, and occasionally adds her rusty little meow to the conversation. It's so sweet. Invited, she'll get in your lap, but she waits to be asked. Love that little kitty!

Well, guess I'll go have a PB&J, and get to work in this messy house! Brittney is still in Italy with her mom and sister, and David and the boys are coming over tonight. I'm going to fry up a pile of pork chops and make some biscuits and gravy for them. Then they're going to help me take the Christmas tree down. Hey, don't judge me! I enjoy it, it's not illegal, and I leave it up until I'm forced to take it down. I'm having bunco here in a couple of weeks, so I guess that's the force. Blessings, friends! --Romeena
March 17, 2017 - Msg 107061: Hey, O'possum! I just saw your cousin in my back yard! Usually he appears at night, unusual to see him in the middle of the day, but he (or she, who can tell?) just went trundling along the east fence line. Thinking it was a cat, looking for a bird or baby squirrel to catch, I reached for my sprinkler remote, but stopped when I saw it was Mr. O'possum. I'll water the cats (doesn't hurt them, but send them out of my yard, with no prey taken) but Mr. O'possum never bothers anything but grubs. He digs little finger-sized holes, snags the grub out of the ground, and departs, leaving nothing but a little hole that the next watering or rain will fill in. He's my friend! --Romeena
March 17, 2017 - Msg 107062: Question for our Porch Gsrdeners....Soil test kits?...Mainly the Ph ones...Any thoughts?...

Are the prob ones any good, or do the test tube color match ones work better?

I have a lot of compost soil I harvested and kinda like to know the Ph of it. I suspect it to be high in acid due to the high leaf content of the compost.....Any thoughts?

p.s. TOM.... Try to have a Good Day...Remember the Good times with MoM....👍

Goober McFife.....☘️
March 17, 2017 - Msg 107063: Thanks Romeena. Erin is doing pretty well. You know, I try to shelter her from hardship because I really believe she has a mild case of PTSD. She has all the symptoms and continues to have panic attacks, even with medication. I am really torn about what to do next. I know I cant shelter her from everything, but I swear it seems to be one thing after another! I need wisdom from God.

That is sweet about Toye Starr and if she were mine, she would be sleeping with me for sure. My big old filthy mutts would love to sleep with me, but not happening. I barely tolerate Bruce in my bed. He gets about 24" of a king mattress. If there is one thing I am the queen of, it's the bed. I do allow kitty to sleep there if she chooses but she never seems to. I guess all the pillows discourage her. ;)

Well, speaking of..kitty was throwing up this morning so I put her out on the back porch for a bit..better go check on her.

Happy St. Patrick's Day to All!

Boo
March 17, 2017 - Msg 107064: Hey O'Possum.... They just announced that there WILL be a Westminster Event May 5th & 6th.....G-F
March 17, 2017 - Msg 107065: McMDC here, just checking in. Be back later. :)
March 18, 2017 - Msg 107066:



Well, the tree is down, all ornaments properly and safely stored, tree tied and wrapped in in the closet. The floors in the living room and my office are vacuumed, furniture back in place, Snowman Row is dismantled and stored away and the mantle once again sports its normal decor. Now here's the kicker. It was all done while I cooked dinner! I took the "special" ornaments off the tree, put them in their assorted coffee cans and other protective containers, and Landry put them on the top shelf in the hall closet where they won't be damaged, and I retired to the kitchen. The boys finished it up, David helped them tie and wrap the tree, and that was that. Trust me, it's a huge job. There are several hundred ornaments (seriously!) but those two boys got it done. Nothing broken, everything properly packed away. Those two are remarkable, and they're so sweet about it. David and Brittney are doing a terrific job with those two kids. I'm so grateful, I am so blessed.

G-F, I'm sorry, but I really don't know much, if anything, about soil testing. I've never done it, though I probably should. That may be the problem with my azaleas - I've planted them three different times over the years. They seem to flourish for a year or two, then begin to decline and finally will come a Spring when I find myself wondering what happened to the azaleas. They just fade away. Probably need a more acid soil. Sorry - wish I could help.

Well, I'm headed for bed. Good night, porch. --Romeena