January 30, 2003 - Msg 11749: Afternoon Y'all. Briscoe must be working overtime,what with all the jugs he's been leaving out for us lately! Glad to see that he still has time for music! Thanks for the squeezins and the songs,Briscoe!
Is it just me,or does anybody feel that this has been the longest dang week? Thank goodness tomorrow is Friday!
Well,I'm tired,so guess I'll head on back to the rock.Just wanted to say hello to all you good people.Take care and have a great evening!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock

January 30, 2003 - Msg 11750: I SAID I was tired! Why'd you make me sweep the porch,Floyd? No rest for a weary possum!
Ha Ha

************
possum again

January 30, 2003 - Msg 11751: Well, I have to say that for the most part our little elementary school was a wonderful experience for my son. (Other than our school nurse.) Mostly there were only things I felt supportive about. There were a couple of reading stories that I felt were questionable from a Christian standpoint, but even some of my Christian friends think I am strict about some things. (Reading material especially) Of course there are some of my friends who would die before they would let their kids watch wrasslin' too. See that is my burden, those who try to dictate to others. I say let each person decide and they will be the one to answer to God for their actions.

I just want to say also that the reason I kept little Opie home this year and decided to homeschool had to do with more than Christian convictions. (although that did enter into it)
I just do not see how he can help get a better education at home than at school when he has only one ear that he can hear in and he is sitting in a noisy classroom all day at school. Even the heater/air conditioning is a distraction for this poor kid. And we have had case conferences and they have noted that he is to have special seating in order for him to hear and it just doesn't happen. Now I have worked in the school system and I know how difficult it is to work in everyone's special requests. I don't expect much, I guess we have been in the school system just long enough to realize what a burden teachers are under. I, therefore, have chosen to advocate for my son. This year it just so happened that my advocacy took the shape of applying for a home school permit and forwarding it to the superintendent of schools when it came. There again, a purely personal choice.

Well I accidentally hopped back up on my soap box again. Now for some lighthearted day to day news and conversation. Just got back from the YMCA and I feel just like JELLO. I walked on the tread mill for 10 minutes and rode the stationary bicycle for 5 minutes. It is so discouraging when I was up to 20 minutes on each before surgery, but I must say that for someone who has to have her hubby lift her foot in the air and place it on the bike peddle, I ain't doin to bad. But folks I am pooped. Then hubby and I sat in the hot tub for about 15 minutes and the got in the car and headed home. So I guess after all my hard work, I deserve to have hubby go and pick up some Long John Silvers for supper. (Please Asa, tell me you have at least heard of LJS. If not, does Arthur Treacher's Fish and Chips ring a bell?) Am I the only one who remembers Arthur Treachers? How about you homemaker, you are from the hoosier state. Do you remember those back in the early 70's? Then after supper I will have a little chocolate and then head off to bed. Bet I sleep good tonight.
fun girl

Hey gang I just realized that if I were to run my names together and leave off the r l I would be
FUNGI.

January 30, 2003 - Msg 11752: Oh, I crack myself up! I just wanted to clarify that I am having some trouble with lifting my right foot. I walk okay, just the muscles that lift do no want to do their job, but I am working on it. I also have trouble getting into the car. Hubby again is there whenever I need him and helps me lift it and put it into the car. AIN'T HE WONDERFUL? (Now I got a hankering for mashed potatoes. I am a mess.)
FUNGI

January 30, 2003 - Msg 11753: When you wrote FUNGI, you reminded me of the Microbiology professor I had in college, Dr. DeLong. He was dead set against vacines of any kind, but especially attenuated (live) vaccines. I wish I could remember all he taught us about it but it's been twenty years ago. I do remember that he thought they caused cancer by causing cell mutation. He told a story about how some of the first vaccines were made from monkey blood and that they caused cancer. Maybe he was just weird or maybe he knew what he was talking about? Anyway, he scared me to death but I still asked questions and didn't let the dr's intimidate me. I have never come across a dr who wasn't in favor of them, though. Most people that think those who don't immunize are crazy, probably don't really know much about it and only believe what they have been told. I remember a few years ago some friends that homeschool and don't immunize had an outbreak of whooping cough in their church and one of the babies almost died. So, what do you do? I'm afraid to immunize and afraid not to. Help! Also, I know that I would be a nervous wreck if I didn't give my kids the Tetanu- vaccine. I mean, what if they stepped on a nail and died from it. I would blame myself for not giving them their shots. So, I said all that to say, I hope the answer lies in safer vaccines in the future.

I am really sorry about what happened to little Opie and am so glad that he didn't have an even worse reaction, like little Hillary (the child I cared for who passed away).

Ya'll have a great evening!

Boo

January 30, 2003 - Msg 11754: Good Evening Porch,
I can't set on the porch for a few days and all kinds of stuff happens!

Romeena, I hope everything is going well for you and you are in my prayers. I hope the Plumster is doing okay, and not missing you too bad. Maybe you are already home by now?! I have been away from this here porch a couple days too many!

Fun Girl, or Fungi,
I am glad to hear you are getting out and riding the bicycle and walking on the tread mill. Sounds like you are making real progress! And don't you feel any need to explain your homeschoolin' little Opie! I for one, commend you and any other mom (or dad) who makes that kind of commitment to their children. The rest of us parents might just be a little jealous that we either don't have the time, self discipline, or desire to do that for our kids, so some folks might be a little condescending about things like that. My best friend has homeschooled her two daughters who are now 14 and 13 and they are just lovely, well-mannered, delightful young ladies. I love being in their company and I am awed at the fantastic job my friend has done with them. My older two children have had the benefit of a private school education, and I feel my friend has done a better job with her two home-schooled children than I and the private school system I chose for my oldest two have done. I have another friend that simply does not have the inclination to homeschool her children, and she does not have the financial wherewithal to send them to a private school. They are in a local public school and my friend is there every day, volunteering in one capacity or another, and staying on top of the curriculum that school uses. Her children are also very well-mannered, delightful children. But, if I am honest, the best job has been done by the home-schooler. Now I have one little one ready to start school next year, and I really don't want to home school him. But, from antecdotal evidence, that would be the best for him. Come August, I will be making a big decision!

Well, that was my soapbox!! I hope I didn't bore any one to tears!

Asa, when's the next practice? Should I bring that big leather thing every one kept telling me to put on my hand instead of my foot again? I still can't figure out how to tie it!

Have a great evening all!
Mary Wiggins

January 30, 2003 - Msg 11755: Sorry, Possum.... I think it really was my fault the porch got swept but I guess you got stuck with the dirty work! You're a good possum... workin hard sweepin for us! You know how all that hard work is gonna make you feel?... POOPED! Okay go get under your rock now and I'll bring ya a nice cup of hot milk just cause I was the one who made the porch get swept.

You're a dedicated mom, fun girl. I'm sure lil Opie is going to get much more because of your efforts.

Boo, naturally I have reservations about those immunizations but, mostly because of the amount they give the kids these days... I've heard that they give as many as nine in one day. I just don't think a little body can easily deal with all that. Then they had been using mercury as a holding agent or preservative or something like that and mercury causes brain damage. They said it was in minute doses but all the same.....

BTW, my post about the book I'm reading on true Christian child rearing is the last one on the previous page (archives) so, I'm hoping you all, especially you young parents, go back and read it cause I'd like to know your opinions about the "modern" vs. traditional/old-fashioned child-rearing methods are.

You all take care. I'm making a big pot of chicken-vegetable-noodle soup.... can smell it cookin right now...mmmm. Come on over.. got plenty of it with good Sheepherder's bread, too. Have a good evening. ~Clara~

January 30, 2003 - Msg 11756: Must have just missed you, Mary... nice to see you around. I've been pretty busy myself and found it pretty darn hard to catch up too. And for the next week I'll be doing our taxes to bring to the accountant. I think I'm gonna feel like possum.... but under a "rock" of receipts and papers instead! I might call out for help so, you all listen for a faint call.. it might be me! ~Clara~

January 30, 2003 - Msg 11757: Howdy, all. I just got home from the hospital about two hours ago, been reading posts and catching up. I must say, both sides have presented their point of view very well. To vaccinate or not to vaccinate? My personal opinion is the same as voiced by some others - that the risks involved in not vaccinating outweigh the risks involved in doing so. However, I recognize and understand the fear experienced by those of you who have children with serious problems that may very well have been caused by vaccinations. I guess it comes down to the point of view, which is influenced by previous experiences. I have a friend who is very afraid of my little Sugarplum, and literally trembles until I put poor Plum into the bedroom. When she was small, she was attacked and seriously bitten by a small dog, and she remembers it very well. She'd like to enjoy the Plum like everyone else, but her experience with small dogs makes that impossible. So, I put the Plum in the bedroom when my friend is here, and all is well. We are all a product of our life experiences, I suppose.

My surgery went well, I'm extremely sore and moving around is difficult, but this too shall pass. In a couple of weeks, I should be back to normal, except that the chronic, annoying discomfort I have had for years should be gone. It will be worth it.

Good night, all, I'm heading for my bed. Ironing board is much too hard! Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena

January 30, 2003 - Msg 11758: So good to hear from you, Romeena. It was very thoughtful of you to let us know how you are doing right away. As the discussion about immunizations has been going on I was wishing you were around to give us your opinion and lo-and-behold, there you were....a very pleasant surprise! I hope all goes just as you want it to. Take plenty of time to get well.

Clara, when you were talking about the chicken soup I was wishing that I really could sit across the table from you and share some soup and conversation about the book you mentioned. I will try to get a copy of it.

Ya'll have a good sleep!

Boo

January 30, 2003 - Msg 11759: Hey all! I have a knack for stirring the pot all up and then leaving, dont' I? I might remind you all that I'm the one that brought up the immunization issue. (sorry). Well, it's late. More work to do tomorrow. Good night. Gargle, Gargle, do do do sittin' on a junebug, do do do. How's that go, Gomer?
Charlotte Tucker

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11760: Morning, porch. Well, I didn't get much sleep, what with Charlotte making all that racket. I think she was vacumming druing the night. And singing, and gargleing. Boo, did anyone answer your question about the Ragedy Man yet? I've never seen the movie, but I do have the book. Which I've never read. I'll try to find it and read it and give you a report.
- Hazel

"When she's in that position, she's gonna run on you."

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11761: Sorry Hazel, I made some coffee, but be careful. It might be hot. Don't want you to burn your mouth and snap at me or anything. Tonight maybe I'll just holler out the windows at all my garage customers.
Good morning, everybody!
Charlotte Tucker

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11762: Thanks, Hazel! Something funny happened yesterday while I was visiting with my Dad who is 77. I asked him if he had ever seen Raggedy Man. And he replied, "Yes, that's one of my favorite movies!". Well I was thinking, 'Eureka! He will be able to answer my questions about the ending', and so I began: "Dad, remember when the Raggedy Man killed the bad guys in the end?" and he said, "Was there any violence in the movie? I don't remember anyone getting killed." (I knew I was in trouble then). Needless to say, he knew less about the movie then I did, much less. Poor Dad can't even remember anything about his favorite movie! LOL
So, I'm counting on you, Hazel, because I have never seen the movie at the movie store so I don't think I can rent it (I guess I could get the book from the library, couldn't I? Finding the time to read it would be tough right now, though).

Well, off to meet the demands of the day!

Boo

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11763: HI THERE WILL IT COLD HERE FOR NOW HOPE TO GIT WARM TODAY.
O K WAIRE IS TOM.

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11764: Hello all! Hey Possum, I've started to make my Valentine love potion(squeezins). The demand will be great. But, y'all are worth every drop. Aint that right, Fungi? Lol! You a mess. Well, back to work. Have a good day.

Briscoe Darling Jr.

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11765: Yep, can't say I have tasted any better, and as far as the demand, wooooo we, you better put in your order now cause come Valentine's Day Briscoe will be busy as a one legged man in a butt kicking contest. Sure was kind of you all to say we were worth every drop.

Good to see Tom drop by. Hope things warm up where you are. We had a beautiful day yesterday, but today it has gone and gotten cold again.

Glad to hear that Ro is through with surgery and able to join us on the porch. Also glad that soon she will be able to live without that chronic annoying discomfort. I can relate. That is exactly what made me decide to go for back surgery. I have already lost much of the restless legs I used to have and once I have totally healed, I hope to be pain free, or almost.

Well I will run for now. Chat at ya later.
fun girl

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11766: Welcome back Romeena. So glad your home and all done with that nasty Dr. stuff. 4 weeks of cuddling with the plumster now. That will be great.
Hey Fungirl, heard of Long John Silvers but never ate at em. None around these here parts.

Asa

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11767: Good afternoon, everyone! It's so good to be home, and able to visit the porch. Might be brief, I'm still a bit drowsy, and feel better when I'm lying down, but I'm here! The Plum is delighted, seems to know I'm sore and steps very carefully around me as she wanders around the bed at night.

Hey, TOM! Good to see you. We need one of your sweet poems, friend. Can you find one?

Someone asked about Arthur Treacher's Fish and Chips, whether anyone remembers them? Well, I do! Ha, I even remember Arthur Treacher himself! How's that? I recall that their food was pretty good. Perhaps just a cut above LJS, though theirs is not bad for fast food.

Honeys and dears, if you like catfish and the trimmings, you need to visit my end of the porch. There's a place here called "Ole Whiskers", and they serve fried catfish fillets (they serve baked catfish, too, but I love it fried), and the best homestyle french fries you ever ate. Cut thick, as thick as my finger, skins on, brown on the outside but soft in the middle - yum! Fried okra, corn on the cob, pinto beans, and all the cold boiled shrimp you care to peel and eat. Appropriate sauces, and a big bowl of green tomato relish finishes it up, and honey, if you come out of there hungry, it's your own fault. Buffet-style, all you can eat, and just delish! I hit that place about once a month, with a catfish-loving friend of mine, and we just really enjoy it. Gooo---ooooood!

Oh, fun girl, if restless legs were part of your problem, no wonder you had surgery. That's just the worst! Not exactly pain, but so annoying you just think you can't stand it anymore. I have a little spell of it now and then, but it's transient, never lasts long, so is not really a problem. I can't imagine having it come and stay. I'm glad your surgery was successful.

Well, I think my bed would be a good place for me right now, getting a big shaky. Keep my chair open for me, I'll probably come back by later on. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11768: Make that "a bit shaky". I'm going to bed before it reaches "big shaky". --Romeena

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11769: That you, Tom! Good to see you.
Still-not-done-with-her-work Charlotte Tucker

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11770: Hey ya'll, let's run down to "Ole Whiskers" and have some supper. We can even take some over to Ro and the Plum. Now let me tell ya about some good eats. We have been to Daytona Beach a couple of times and there is a restaurant just across one of the bridges called "Aunt Catfish's." Let me tell you, if you want some good eats, that's the place to be. They serve sweet tea and yeast rolls and sweet taters with your meal. I had the flounder and it was just simply wonderful. The whole meal twanged the buds and set just right.

Wasn't Arthur Treacher the police man in Mary Poppins? I don't know much about his acting career, but he did have some pretty good fish and chips. Didn't the paper they wrapped it in look like newspaper, like in England? Is it true that they eat fries in England with vinegar? That's just how I eat mine too. I am a big vinegar fan.

Well my muscles are so tired from my workout yesterday, so I think I am gonna do like Ro and go climb into bed for a bit.

Love to all,
fun girl

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11771: Hi FG, yes overe there in Eckmondwyke they eat 'chips' (Fries to us) with vinegar and mostly with - get this - MAYONAISE!

Hey to all,
~ Mrs. Wiley

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11772: Yeah, they'll eat mayonaise with just about everything over in Europe. In Germany, they put it on hamburgers and brats. I tried it, and you know what? It's not half bad!

Valentines day. Ugh, don't remind me. I think that has to be the worst holiday anyone ever thought up! And what is this "sweetest day" thing? Isn't that the same as Valentines day? Do we really need two holidays to remind our significant others what we haven't bought them?
Gosh! I need to go over to Wally's, get a pop, and calm down. Anybody else want one?
-Sterling Holobyte

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11773: Hello Porch, can't set out at my end here long another cold night we got another 3 ins. of snow this evening. Gee whiz I will be so glad to get some warm weather although we needed this to kill the germs and all, but I do believe ifin it don't let up it's likely to kill me, maybe I'm a germ LOL. No No I'm not really , I'm just funna ya. Mrs Woley Mayonaise? on fries, I like mustard on my chips (potatoe chips) that is.Fungi how are you tonight? Y'all have been visiting on here today sorry I missed everyone. I've been so busy working part time now they have hierd me full time, at least I'll have more week ends of now. I really like my new job, working it along with my old one last month was touch and go and it really got me down, but I resigned from the other one I like thisone so much better, the entire staff is just a Great Bunch of People to work with and there is not a lot of stress at this one and the pay is twice the amount I was getting at the other place.Pollyanna says Hi to the Plum and I guess I'll get off here and try to read a few more post before I hit the sack, I have to work tomorrow, :) Love and prayers to all
Ellen Brown
Lots of luck to you and yours. Stay warm!

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11774: Oh Sterling mine and Lightnings Anv. is Valentines day 11 years.
Ellem B

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11775: Isn't it terrible to be so unromantic that we complain about Valentine's Day?! I used to really hate it when I was single or not dating anyone. I always feel sorry for people who are alone on Valentine's. Now that I have had my Hubbie for fourteen years, I find that I have become very unromantic and, unfortunately see Valentine's day as just another holiday to prepare for. I usually end up having to cook because the good restaurants are full. I am thankful, however for a loving spouse and will have to examine my attitude and adjust it! I have heard that there is an herb to make a woman feel romantic. Does anyone know what it's called?!

I heard a joke the other day (please don't be offended, men). Why do so many women gain weight after they get married? Answer: Because when they are single, they come home, look to see what's in the refrigerator, then go to bed. When they are married, they come home, see what's in bed and go to the refrigerator!! heehee Sorry, guys, nothing personal....

Boo

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11776: Allspice?

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11777: Oh Boo, your something LOL I thought that was cute, but I know that dosen't apply to us with our hubbies, my romantic, loving spouce, is asleep in his chair snoreing away right at the moment ;> there he is sleeping so peaceful, mouth wide open exposing his toothless smile, now how could a girl not get excited about seeing such a romantic sight? now tell me? LOL
Ellen Brown

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11778: Ellen, you are a bird in this world! ~ Mrs. Wiley

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11779: Allspice!Lol! that's very clever, message 11776, but i don't think that's the herb I was talking about. heehee

Boo

ps-sounds like you got yourself a real hunk, there Ellen!

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11780: Thank you Boo & Mrs Wiley
Ellen Brown

If you would set a bird lose in this room they would all point.

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11781: Hmmmm. I knew a Herb once. He wasn't very romantic though.
I love Valentines Day. It's one of my favorite days.
- Hazel

Barney: You know what I'm going to do? I'm going to go home, change, drop by Thelma Lou's and watch that George Raft movie on T.V.

January 31, 2003 - Msg 11782: Please cupid, look the other way.
Save it for another day.
I'm all spent from lovin' men,
Don't wanna go that route again.

They don't know how to share with chores,
leave piles of clothes and dirty floors...

Oh, never mind. They are really worth all the trouble. Shoot me again, Cupid.

February 01, 2003 - Msg 11783: Mornin' Y'all! Hey Briscoe,let me put in my order now for some of that Valentine love potion,cause from what I see here there's gonna be a lot of ladies wanting some of that stuff! Make sure you put some of that special herb in Boo's jug!
I had a boyfriend once that always put mayo on his fries.Thought it was weird,thought HE was weird-therefore,he's history! Ha Ha
Ro,glad you are through that surgery and hope it helps you feel better in the long run.I know little Plum is taking good care of you!
Well, since I'm up early on a Saturday morning,I might as well start doing some chores around my rock.Y'all have a good day and HAPPY FEBRUARY to all!
Coffee,bacon and french toast for who wants it.
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock

February 01, 2003 - Msg 11784: Mornin porch, hey possum grub sounds grand but I'ld love to have a cup of tea with a a drop of honey, Briscoe's Valentine potion sounds good to me, LOL Y'all have a grand day now, I'm off to work in a few.
Ellen Brown

February 01, 2003 - Msg 11785: I know what it is. It's oregano. She looked right at it and cried.

February 01, 2003 - Msg 11786: Dear God! Please comfort and strengthen the families of the astronauts on the lost shuttle. Wrap them in your love and help them as they try to pick up the pieces of their lives, shattered as the shuttle shattered in the skies over north Texas. --Romeena

February 01, 2003 - Msg 11787: God Bless the crew, family and friends of the Space Shuttle Columbia. It's a dark day in Mayberry. :-(

Briscoe Darling Jr.

February 01, 2003 - Msg 11788: Amen.

Boo

February 01, 2003 - Msg 11789: Yes it is,Briscoe.A sad dark day for sure. On a personal note,I know a shuttle astronaut (not on this flight,thank God.) from my hometown.He recently retired from the program,but has flown missions on Columbia in the past.He was engaged to marry Judith Resnick,one of the astronauts that perished on the Challenger.Just sad,is what that was and now this.God Bless our space program, the lost crew members and their families.
***********
possum under a rock

February 01, 2003 - Msg 11790: The Porch flag has been lowered to half-mast as we mourn with all of America.

February 01, 2003 - Msg 11791: I add my prayers to the Porch for the Columbia crew.... may God bless their souls and comfort their brave families.

Ro, glad to see you. Fun girl, take it easy now... don't over do it, although I know how easy it is to lose patience with the recouperation period.

The other day I asked if anyone had read a really good book on Christian character development that I am currently reading. Those of you who want your children to grow up Godly and with much fewer problems than most kids have these days would appreciate the wisdom I believe. Anyway, I decided to search for an online parenting group that perhaps had read the book or similiar books. I found a very small group of parents at a Yahoo Group. They are very eager to add more parents so I am inviting you and giving you their address:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/kidsofcharacter/
Their homepages says, "This group will be for parents who desire to raise their children with values and morals not common in today's society. We can give each other ideas on positive reinforcement, creative discipline strategies, and much more! I would like this group to be open to both Christian and non-Christian parents looking for ways to instill character in all ages of children, from babies to teenagers! Our children will be the rulers of tomorrow; shouldn't we train them to be people of integrity?" So, I encourage you all to at least go take a look. It's very difficult to find these kinds of parents anywhere these days!

Have a blessed day, my friends. ~Clara~

PS..Sterling, I'm gonna put some of that there oregano or allspice in your food ifn ya don't get a little of that there am-moor in ya in time for Valentine's Day! I think it's one of them Frenchie affairs ain't it and we don't wanna go and get them mad at us now do we? Anyway, if them herbs don't work on ya, Briscoe's mulberry squeezins will!

February 01, 2003 - Msg 11792: Our hearts & prayers go out to the families of the Astronauts.

Ellen Brown

February 01, 2003 - Msg 11793: Thanks Clara, I think I'll try that. Briscoe, could you send me a couple jugs o'squeezins?
Better make that a few.
-Sterling Holobyte

I second that, Boo-message 11788. Nothing more I can say about that. It's just sad.

February 01, 2003 - Msg 11794: God bless America,
Land that I love.
Stand beside Her and guide Her,
Through the night, with the light from above.

From the mountains,
To the praries,
To the oceans white with foam.
God bless America,
My home, sweet home.
God bless America,
My home, sweet home.

Just seemed appropriate tonight.

Boo

February 01, 2003 - Msg 11795: Prayers for the families of the Columbia crew. I was out of touch and didn't realize what had happened until I saw a sign in front of a local car wash asking for prayers for them.
Charlotte Tucker
P.S. I'm still waiting for someone to answer that question about the herb!!

February 02, 2003 - Msg 11796: Hello Porch! You all have a Mayberry Day!
FRANKIE FLINT

February 02, 2003 - Msg 11797: Happy Groundhogs Day, porch. Nice to see you, Frankie Flint.
I don't know the answer to the herb question, Charlotte. I'll take a guess. How about basil? That always has a... certain effect on me. Kinda like what Root Beer does to Mavis.
- Hazel

February 02, 2003 - Msg 11798: Good Sabbath, Porch. Mornin' Frankie. My you look purty today with all that lipstick and rouge and lotion (smell purty too). Basil, huh, Hazel? Where's Mavis? She probably knows the answer to this one.
Charlotte Tucker

February 02, 2003 - Msg 11799: Is the answer Oregano? It is the secret ingredient! ~ Mrs. Wiley

God Bless the Astronauts, their families and all those in the space program.

February 02, 2003 - Msg 11800: Please, someone find that herb!

Guess what I have to do today? I am making spaghetti noodles for a hundred church folks. I am helping with the Youth fund raiser after church and I think I will take along my secret ingredient (Oregeno). Should be a busy day and I feel a cold coming on.

Ya'll have a good one and "remember the Sabbath, to keep it holy".

Boo

February 02, 2003 - Msg 11801: Anyone got a good cure for this nasty cough that I can't seem to get rid of now that my bout with the flu is somewhat over - I can't rid of this cough. Sure does tire me out. . .

Prayers for the Shuttle crew's families -
my brother is an aeronautical engineer and worked on some of the testing for the space shuttles after the last tragedy - it is a sad day for all and it was for him yesterday.

Everyone take care . . . .

homemaker

February 02, 2003 - Msg 11802: Yes, it's a sad day for the Shuttle crews families. God bless them.
Do you have a juicer, Homemaker? If you do, try juicing some carrots, a clove of garlic and a handful of parsley. Drink that twice a day. Might work.
- Hazel

February 02, 2003 - Msg 11803: yeah, but it might not. ~ Mrs. Wiley

February 02, 2003 - Msg 11804: I second the motion for Homemaker to start hitting the garlic. It is good for everything. They say in ancient Egypt that garlic was used as an antibiotic. I swear by it. Fresh is best, but if you can't stand the thought, try GARLIQUE. It is the best of those I have tried.

Prayers for the families of the Columbia crew. I can still remember where I was when I heard that the Challenger had exploded. I was in the snack bar at our college. (See even back then I was a lover of fine junk food.) Anyone else remember where they were when they heard about Challenger?

Ro, I am trying to be patient while recovering. I definately over did it on Friday when I went to the YMCA. I think that from now on I will stick with the pool exercises. Leaves me alot less sore and tired. I have done nothing since Friday and I am just starting to feel pretty good again.

Hugs to the porch!
fun girl

Briscoe, add another 2 jugs onto my Valentine's Day order. Gonna share the love with a couple old married couples who could use the help. LOL

February 02, 2003 - Msg 11805: Oh also, I just want to say that I have been married for 14 years and we both have put on weight and aged, but he still looks good to me. Wish I was in some kind of condition to take advantage of the feelings of amore on the coming romantic day. I am sure the surgeon would say, "WAIT, and baby your back!"
fun girl

February 02, 2003 - Msg 11806: Homemaker.....Try a couple of tablespoons of honey,lemon and Strawberry syrup. Just mix equal parts of the three. it sure smooths a raw throat....LD

February 02, 2003 - Msg 11807: Homemaker, my grandmother used to have a nagging cough, she called it a tickle cough, and it just never went away. She discovered a cough drop called Fishermen's Friend. They aren't much to look at, and I don't think they taste like much, but they always worked for her.

I add my prayers to all of those being offered here on the porch for the crew of the Columbia and all their families, loved ones, and co-workers.

Mary Wiggins

February 02, 2003 - Msg 11808: I used the Fishermens Friend once, and it worked good. Hope everyone is well and happy.
FRANKIE FLINT

February 02, 2003 - Msg 11809: I remember the Challenger event quite well. The educational magazine I was editing at the time had just done a piece on Christa McAuliffe, the teacher to go into space. We were all excited about getting the article in the issue. We were all busy at our desks with the radio on when my coworker jumped up and turned up the volume. She said, "Listen! It blew up!" "What?" we all said. "The space shuttle!" That was a sad day also. Prayers and more prayers. We all seem to need God so much every day. Prayers for all my Mayberry friends!
Charlotte Tucker

February 03, 2003 - Msg 11810: The weather here was in the 50's today. But by the middle of the week, we are supposed to be back down into the 20's and 30's again. YUCK!

We are headed down to the gambling river boat again on Tuesday. We got out taxes back and so we are gonna have a little celebration. Shoot, I may even go down to the spa and have me a massage. That sounds so good to my poor aching body. Restless legs have returned tonight. I just hope that it is a brief visit and that they haven't returned for good. I decided to come in here and just chat for a while and wait for the medication to kick in so my legs will be still.

See ya when I get back from the river boat.
fun girl

From now on I will call the hubby FUNGI. (fun guy)
I think it suits him just perfectly. And we match
fun girl and fungi. LOL I just crack me up!!

February 03, 2003 - Msg 11811: Every morning I pull up my home page and all the headlines of bad news just jump off the screen at me. Then I pull down my favorites and come here to take refuge on the porch where I can hear a prayer or a good thought or have a laugh from an Andy ep. Dear Father, today I praise you for the good things in life, we don't praise you enough. Thank you for your son and for your love and for this porch, a place of refuge from our troubled world. In Jesus' name. Amen
Charlotte Tucker
P.S. Maybe I should change my homepage. Anyone have any suggestions?

February 03, 2003 - Msg 11812: Hello all! Hey Sterling and Fun Girl, Here is a six pack of my squezzins with a happy face on them. That means, you can bring back the jugs for a refill, any ol' time. Prayers for all.

Briscoe Darling Jr.

February 03, 2003 - Msg 11813: Do I have a suggestion??!! Charlotte Tucker, my home page is the TAGS site! Lovely to open up my Netscape, and all that faces me is the TAGS site. I then click on "hide frames", and "The Front Porch", and voila! Here I am! Delightful!

Am still sore, still creeping around, but getting better. Naps are a wonderful thing! Fun girl, I'm glad you're improving, too. I've never had back surgery, imagine it takes a lot of time to get back to normal. Hang in there!

Speaking of naps, here I go.... Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena

February 03, 2003 - Msg 11814: Wish I could take a nap. I am one weary mom right now. Just got one kid over a cold and cough and now baby girl is sick. She has a fever and is taking a nap. I guess it will be another sleepless night. I have not been sleeping well for about a week and I just feel tuckered out.

I don't remember where I was when the Challenger exploded but I can recall seeing it on tv and how awful I felt.

It was a beautiful 80 degrees here today! We are all in shorts and loving it. Supposed to get cool tomorrow, though.

Well, seems I don't have anything really exciting to share today so I will sign off. Have a great evening!

Boo

February 03, 2003 - Msg 11815: Someone just sent me a wonderful email article about our President and his Christianity. I am not very familiar with tags and was wondering if there was some way I could forward this article to you?
LD

February 03, 2003 - Msg 11816: Thanks for the "squezzins" Briscoe, is that similar to squeezins? Sorry.
Hey, with all those bottomless jugs of squeezins, you're going to get us hooked!

LD, one thing you can try is to highlight the entire article, then press Ctrl and C on your keyboard, then when you get to where you want to put the article(like here on the porch), press Ctrl and V . Should work. I look forward to reading it!
-Sterling Holobyte

February 03, 2003 - Msg 11817: Hey guys how is everyone? It was in the 70's here today. But supposed to be down in the 20's by the end of the week. I remember when the Challenger exploded, I was in school and we were watching it on tv. Prayers for the ones who have lost family members. You all have a wonderful evening, I'm off to find the ironing board. --Salty Dog

February 04, 2003 - Msg 11818: A Big Hello to the Porch~~~~~~~~
FRANKIE FLINT

February 04, 2003 - Msg 11819: Oh, lawsy me. Salty Dog, did you just have to say that? You were in school when the Challenger exploded? If I didn't feel ancient already, that did it! Where's the Colonel? I need a bottle of his tonic. Or two or three. I'm afraid Briscoe's squeezins or squezzins or anything else just ain't gonna do it! I need a bottle of tonic and a good night's sleep. Hope I wake up in the morning! Anybody know a good incant for "older than dirt"?

Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena

February 04, 2003 - Msg 11820: Sterline Holobyte, you're a treashuh, and your education was worth every penny! Your advice to LD was an answer to a question I've had, indirectly. I've wanted to save some things from the porch, and I reasoned that if your instructions worked one way, they'd probably work in reverse, and guess what! They did! I copied that little paragraph into a word file, saved it under "copying doc to doc.doc" and now I'll have it if I forget which letters to use. Would it work with "edit/copy" and then "edit/paste" also? I've never tried it. I need to get a bit more adventurous. Yeah, and crash this infernal machine, too, just watch me!
Sugarplum says hey again! --Romeena

February 04, 2003 - Msg 11821: Oops! Make that Sterling. Sorry! --Romeena

February 04, 2003 - Msg 11822: Good Morning porch
Ellen Brown

February 04, 2003 - Msg 11823: I wasn't in school either, Ro. We ain't no spring chickens anymore, are we?
Charlotte Tucker

February 04, 2003 - Msg 11824: I wasn't in school either, but I'm a spring chicken! A forty year old spring chicken.

Well, can't talk long, gotta go take care of the little chicks.

Did ya'll watch the TAGS episode last night with Peggy? I really liked Peggy.

Gotta run!

Boo

February 04, 2003 - Msg 11825: Hello friends! I guess I took too much of a taste yesterday. :-) Have a Mayberry day all.

Briscoe Darling Jr.

February 04, 2003 - Msg 11826: Thank you kindly for the six pack with unlimited refills. Ain't nothin' like a good batch of squeezin's and Briscoe makes the finest that have ever twanged my buds. Ro-I had a rough surgery. Even considering that back surgerys are usually not fun. My surgeon came in every day and he never looked me in the eye, but looked at the floor and kept saying, "You had a rough time. You lost alot of blood and there was SO much scar tissue from your last surgery." As a matter of fact, my blood count was so low they gave me Procrit, which is a medication they give cancer patients after chemo so to build their red blood cells. All in all it was a nightmare experience, but my surgeon was wonderful. A kind and caring man. And he was skillfull. By just looking at an MRI he could not tell what he was getting into. I think when he opened me up he just was overwhelmed with all there was to do and that is why it took them 9 hours. But God is good and I am on the road to feeling better.

Well we are off to the gambling river boats. Chat at ya when we get back.
fun girl

February 04, 2003 - Msg 11827: Mercy, fun girl! Your back surgery makes this little old stuff I've just had done sound like a Sunday School picnic. Only three hours, and didn't need any blood afterward. Bless you, honey.

Anybody besides me like the Yankee Candles? I had to go to my doctor today, and stopped by Linens & Things on the way home. New flavors, and so nice! Cucumber & Cantaloupe, and Fresh Peach. I also love the Sage & Citrus, which isn't new but is so nice. I love candles, keep 'em burning much of the time. The wax potpourri thingies are great, too, and much safer because the flame is contained inside the tart burner. With my track record of getting newspapers stuck in a candle, the burners are for me. Still scares me when I think of that night, but all's well that ends well. Well, how'd I get off on that tangent? I amaze myself sometimes.

Gonna go take a nap! Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena

February 04, 2003 - Msg 11828: Ro, I love Yankee candles. They are the only ones I buy. I like them because they don't have lead wicks and can be safely burned around the kids.

I have been having a problem getting on the porch and I don't know if it's my computer or not. When I log on it takes a looong time to scroll down to the recent posts. It didn't used to so I am wondering what's going on. i have not been posting as much as I would like to because I don't have the time to sit and wait. Is this happening to everyone or is it my computer?

well, gotta go feed the young ones.

Boo

February 04, 2003 - Msg 11829: I'm loosing my memory friends and neighbors! Didn't Barney stumble into Ramona Wiley Bectoris near the end of the "Class Reunion" episode and while trying to regain their composure she whispered something in his ear to let him know that she really did remember him?

February 04, 2003 - Msg 11830: I sure don't remember that part, Msg 11829.

Boo

February 04, 2003 - Msg 11831: I don't remember ever seeing that either, #11829, but what an interesting idea! Can't you just see Barney's face? Don Knotts would have made the most of a script like that, for sure!

Mary Wiggins, I've been asked by a couple of people who have seen the brochure of Pat's work that you sent me - they want to know if you two have a website? Also, are there other works available besides the three pages you sent me? I'm still trying to decide what I want. Also, what is a Serigraph? Please pardon my ignorance, but I know nothing about art except what I like.

I'm heading for the ironing board soon. Have been so tired all the time since this last surgery. I'm looking forward to my old energy coming back, sure hope I'm not disappointed! Have a lovely week, friends, and Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena

February 04, 2003 - Msg 11832: Mary, feel free to reply in email if you prefer. --Romeena

February 05, 2003 - Msg 11833: Mornin' Y'all! Just wanted to say hi and hope everyone has a good day.Seems like this week is moving along fairly well-last week sure crawled by,in my opinion!
Y'all take care!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock

February 05, 2003 - Msg 11834: Mornin' Porchsters! Hope everyone has a fine day.
Charlotte Tucker

February 05, 2003 - Msg 11835: Morning Porch,

I hope everyone is doing well this morning. I made an interesting observation yesterday. I like watching Leave it to Beaver with my little 5 year old and I never realized that they live in Mayfield! I thought to myself, self, I need to live in a place that begins with May...Mayfield, Mayberry...always the nicest people in those towns. Even Eddie Haskell did nice things for Beaver once in a while!

I have one other observation I would like to share. My 5 year old is growing up in a world of computers. I know that for sure because the other day, after using the bathroom, the toilet was running, (it probably needs a new flapper), and he told me the toilet was "loading"! I thought it was funny, I don't know if you all will!

Romeena, Pat and I don't have a website, yet! Some day soon we hope to. Any body know any good webmasters!? I guess that is what you call them! Anyway, to answer your question about serigraphs, as far as I understand it, they are similar to a lithograph print, done in a 4 color process off of plates, but the difference is, each serigraph has added brushstrokes of paint added in strategic areas of the print. They are all limited in the edition size. I think we may have 3 more prints that I did not send to you, but I forget which ones I did send! I hope that answers your questions. BTW, I hope you are recovering well! I am sure Sugarplum is so glad to have you home during the recuperation!

Have a great day all!
Mary Wiggins

February 05, 2003 - Msg 11836: Good morning! Mary, your son's little observation was so cute! I guess we should expect this generation of children to say such things, shouldn't we? It's funny because last night I was trying to do something on the computer and my baby girl (18 mos.) crawled up on my lap and wanted to press the keys. I let her for a change and she just squeeled with delight as new things appeared on the screen. She has a real fascination with the computer and sneaks in here to mess it up every chance she gets (she likes to stick foreign objects into the printer, too!). Just think how bright our children will be as they grow up with so many learning opportunities. Since I homeschool my 7 yr old, I am sure the computer will be a great resource for learning in our home. By the way, aren't five year old boys a delight?! i just loved that age. My son was old enough to communicate such neat things (like yours) but still young enough to want to spend lots of time on Mom's lap and give lots of kisses. As hard as the days can be, I try to take every opportunity to just enjoy my kids and not worry so much about the chores, they will always be there but little ones grow up too fast. Maybe it's because of my age (40) but I try to make everyday count and spend lots of time just looking at them and thanking God.

Ya'll have a wonderful 'May'berry kind of day!

Boo

Hey, where's Asa? We have to practice for that championship!

February 05, 2003 - Msg 11837: Ro....I LOVE Yankee candles. I usually get mine at Cracker Barrel since we love their food. So much we kill two birds with one stone. The cucumber cantelope scent is my favorite. I have all kinds of candles around the house. I have been trying to think of a gift for my secret sister at church and I think a potpourri pot and some of those wax discs just might do the trick.I think candles are a woman thing. My hubby hates candles. Makes him nervous to have those things sitting around on fire. Candles and picture frames are two things I always put into gift baskets for my secret sister. I have never met a woman yet who doesn't like either one.

At the secret sister dinner I drew my own name first and so I had to put it back, so then the second time I drew my mom. I didn't dare put another name back so I kept it. Now folks, this may come as somewhat of a surprise, but I am a blabber mouth and not good at keeping secrets. I don't know how I am supposed to keep this a secret for a year. She will probably know before summer gets here.

I think I will have to sit out this season from the baseball team. I am sure you all will miss me, but I promise to come to all the home games and cheer really loud. (Especially loud if I've been in the squeezins.) We had a profitable trip to the casino. I made $75. Between the two of us we paid for our room and food and still came home with $100 more than we left with. We play Black Jack and only bet $5 per hand. That may sound steep, but there was a man at our table who was betting $25 per hand and Mike saw a guy this morning who was betting $100 per hand. That's too rich for my blood.

Well I need to go and do some laundry so we don't run out of clean clothes. This envolves some effort since I have to have little Opie load the clothes and then unload them into the dryer. A threat to his allowance usually provides the needed incentive. So I guess I will go and threaten some allowance now. Chat with ya later.

fun girl

February 05, 2003 - Msg 11838: Just so you know, I am not to lazy to do laundry. I am still not allowed to bend at the waist, so that's why little Opie will be helping with the laundry.

Also, I too have been having trouble pulling up the TAGS page. When I click on it on my favorites list it seems to take FOREVER to come up and there are many times I just say forget it and go on to something else.
fun girl

February 05, 2003 - Msg 11839: A big hey to all the porch! ~ Mrs. Wiley

February 06, 2003 - Msg 11840: Mornin' Dears! Mornin' Honeys!

Have a good one!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock

February 06, 2003 - Msg 11841: Morning Mayberrians! Hey Mary Wiggins! Me and my kids love Leave it to Beaver. That's a good wholesome show. My little girl especially likes it. Have a Mayberry Day!
Charlotte Tucker

February 06, 2003 - Msg 11842: Beaver Rules!

Boo

February 06, 2003 - Msg 11843: Thanks Romeena! I didn't know you even knew my wife, Sterline Holobyte. :)

Boo, you do know that this is a TAGS message board, don't you?

Ok, I like Leave It To Beaver, too. Not as much as TAGS, mind you.
-Sterling(Sterline's husband) Holobyte

February 06, 2003 - Msg 11844: Hi everyone!

BetsyEllie

February 06, 2003 - Msg 11845: Just wanted to pop in for a minute to say hi to everyone, so HI EVERYONE!

Charlene Darling Hollister

February 06, 2003 - Msg 11846: Well, we went to WalMart last night to pick up a little gift for my secret sister. I didn't see any of those little potpourri pots. Does anyone know where they are located. I was looking in the candle section. Anyway... She wrote on her question and answer paper that she liked plants and so I went to the plant section. I looked around and found a gardenia plant. She loves gardenias. That was what her bridal boquet was made up of when she married my step-dad. So I picked out a pretty good sized plant. It has a couple of buds that look ready to open on it. I think it's something she will enjoy. I have had her name for a couple of weeks and not done anything for her because not everyone was done drawing names. So this week I think everyone has finally drawn and I can start the giving. This is so much fun.(And we all know how much I love anything that is fun!)

fun girl

February 06, 2003 - Msg 11847: Ok, ok, Andy rules. He is my favorite, naturally.

I have an annoying cold so I am kinda cranky. Somebody please make me some chicken soup and leave it on the porch, purty please?

BTW, Ro, my favorite Yankee candle scent is Christmas Cookies but if you are on a diet, don't burn one cause it'll sure make you hungry! Hazelnut Coffee is another great scent.

Gotta go lay my dizzy head back on the couch while my youngest is taking a nap. I can't lay on the couch while she is awake because she puts her face about an inch from mine and whines or else she repeatedly slams her head against my chest (hurts as bad as it sounds). Can't get sick when you got little ones around!

Later, Boo

February 06, 2003 - Msg 11848: Andy rules, all right. Mayberry's the greatest. I can't sit and watch Leave It To Beaver for very long. It's a show that just seems... well... dated to me. I can sit and watch TAGS for hours and hours and feel like I'm "right there in it", but I don't get that same "homey" feeling from LITB. I don't know why.

Anybody know whatever happened to salt rising bread? I remember eating it at breakfast in the mid- to late-sixties, and Barney made his sandwiches with it (two for lunch, and one for later in the day when he gets his sinkin' spell). But I've looked and looked on store shelves everywhere, and salt rising bread is NOT to be found. Anytime I ask somebody about it, folks look at me like I have two heads. Who all here REMEMBERS salt rising bread? Whatever happened to it?

Nice to see ever'body. I'll see ya.

Rafe Hollister
GOMER: "I can do a hoot owl!"
FLOYD: "Oh, can you do a hoot owl?"
GOMER: "HOO! HOO!"
FLOYD: "Oh, say... That's GOOOOOOD!"
AUNT BEE: "All right, everyone. That will be our signal: Gomer will HOOT!"

February 06, 2003 - Msg 11849: I agree Andy rules!! I do enjoy a few other old shows, I NEVER watch any new stuff. But when I die and go to heaven, to me, that would be Mayberry! All my family would live right in the vicinity, all my friends would be nearby, and my neighbors would all be friends too! We would all instinctively know just how long to visit, and we would never overstay our welcome. We would think of each other's welfare before our own. The food would be the heartiest, most delicious home-cooked meals you could ever think of. And for desert...home-made ice cream! Hmmm Hmmm! I think I am going to go now, I am getting kind of hungry!
Have a great Mayberry day now!
Mary Wiggins

February 06, 2003 - Msg 11850: Go where now? Heaven? Come back, Mary, not yet! We'll miss you!
Charlotte Tucker

February 06, 2003 - Msg 11851:

February 06, 2003 - Msg 11852: Hey to Charlene and Rafe! Nice to see you. You should really stop by more often. Rafe, I've wondered about salt-risen bread too. I don't believe I've ever had it. I'll have to do some research on that one.
- Hazel

Floyd: Hey Ollie, guess who's getting married?
Andy: Blabbermouth!