August 22, 2004 - Msg 23071: The Big Freeze is on folks.
Good Sabbath to you all.
Alan will be home soon to lend a hand.
MD- How's the race goin today? Thanks for the info
Spot, it's good to see you are back.
We were really lackin' on the porch for some fine
grub. How about we switch on the flood lights and
get the smoker going again.
I can hardly believe that schools are back in session again. In AZ they upped the days from 175 to 180, so we are in full swing by tomorrow. When i was a youngster, we never started til after labor day.
Anyone watching any Olympics?
Hope all is well on your ends of the porch.
Prayers continue for Mavis, Boo, pipeman and other porchsters, as well as troops and families.
Well, settin back now for some Sunday afternoon
apple peelin!
MDC
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23072: Oh yes, I swept the porch off too!
MDC
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23073: MDC.. Greg Biffle won in the #16 National Guard car won ,Mark Martin 2nd ,Dale Jarret 3rd....
mayberry deputy
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23074: Thanks for sweepin' MDC. We sure needed it this time. What a bunch of garbage!

Hope you are all having a nice Sunday. We had a little rain today but its still real hot. Can't wait for that first cool front of the season. Its like we come to life around here when it cools off. Just like folks in the North get house-bound when the winter weather is fierce, we get house-bound with the terrible heat. Who wants to go outside and do anything when the minute you set foot outside, all your make-up melts off?!

Later friends,
Boo
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23075: Thanks for the clean up job MDC!..hey Boo,MD,tonight its pot roast,mashed taters,pinto beans,turnip greens,sliced sweet onions,sweet tea,hot peppers...gona go read the mail..signed:SPOT the"keeping the porch lights on all night" dog of this great porch!
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23076: SPOT....supper sounds great
PIPEMAN .. Kasey Khane and Dale Jarrett did you proud today ,both had great runs ,hope you were filling well enough to watch some of the race
mayberry deputy
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23077: showed my lack of education above didnt I ,meant to say feeling not filling
mayberry deputy
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23078: Evenin' Y'all! Poor,poor, pitiful folks who don't have anything better to do than take up space here on the porch with their vulgarities and terrible grammar.Oh,and the "site moderator" -what a hoot! Yeah,right! Glad the word has gotten to Floyd- I'm sure he'll be on the porch real soon. Meanwhile- BIG FREEZE!
Hey Spot,thanks for supper! Sounds tasty! Can I get some gravy on them taters? I'll give up my share of the turnips for some good homemade gravy!
Sterling,I'm not sure I knew about your daughter's heart problem.God bless your little girl. My grandaughter was born with atrial septal defect (hole in the heart) and is undergoing open heart surgery on Friday. I'm sure you & I have shared the same fears,concerns and emotions.Please keep Laci in your thoughts & prayers as I will hold your little girl close in MY heart.God Bless all the sweet little girls-wish I could see Boo's lil' angel!
Well,guess I'll go tackle my dirty dishes-y'all keep rockin' on this fine evening!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23079: P.S. Thinking of you,Mavis.God Bless.

possum again
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23080: Ok Possum no greens for you , just scrape them in my bowl!..here is a extea dollop of gravy for yer taters!.SPOT
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23081: Saw something interesting the other day, was watching Star Trek, one of those where they go back to earth (or somewhere like it) Kirk and Spock were walking down a city street and low and behold the walk right in front of "Floyd's Barbershop". I almost spilled my coffee! If they had started the scene 10 earlier they would have been right in front of the court house. Small world (s).
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23082: Removed
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23083: Reguards to Msg 23081 ,Yep, the same desilu sets were used in some star trek shows..!..SPOT
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23084: I'm still here porch, just still really blue today & don't feel like doing much talking. Having a couple of bad days, usually on Sundays we are at Mom's having supper or spending the day at the flea market or the garden center. Instead, today, we ate sandwiches & planted flowers around her grave. Gonna get the grass seed this week to spread too. Please keep the prayers coming, Lord knows I need them!
*Mavis
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23085: Mavis I have my long wheel base truck full of porch prayers for you and gona dump them at your house...God bless ya...SPOT..butter pecan ice cream for a late night snack here at the power company..
August 22, 2004 - Msg 23086: Thank you Possum! Any time I hear about another person's children's medical condition I can't help but feel for them and know what they must be going through, so you don't have to ask me to keep your Laci in my thoughts and prayers twice.

Mavis, stay strong, and try to keep your chin up. Our thoughts and prayers are with you too.


Boo, I don't have a problem with my makeup melting off. ;) It's either because I live in Wisconsin where summer is already leaving, or it's because I don't wear makeup.
Wait, it's both!:)

I really wish summer wasn't leaving, but I am glad I don't wear makeup.

-Sterling Holobyte
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23087: #23081, and anyone else interested, here's some pics of that episode of Star Trek that I found on the Mayberry.com server....

Mayberry in Star Trek

--Will Stockdale, P.L.O.
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23088: Removed
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23089: Good Morning Porch!..Hey there Sterling...GREAT pics Will!...Well what cha"ll say we have a road trip away from the porch this morning [looks like we need it]and all meet at I-Hop..Im buying will someone stop and get a news paper please...signed: SPOT the"COLD"dog of your porch if ya know what I mean..lights are on!
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23090: Hey folks,....sorry for the problems. The feller has been removed for now and I'll just keep removing any trouble makers. Y'all just continue the "Big Freeze" to any trouble and let me know. I was out of town this weekend doing Mayberry events up in NC so I'm just getting to this. I did find the feller is also using Comcast and that he's in Elkton, MD. We'll get 'em under control soon.
--Floyd
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23091: Thank you Floyd, I always said you run the cleanest clip joint in town! I went to ATL this weekend to vivit my parents. They aren't doing too well and for the first time, my ancestrial home - the house I grew up in - smelled like old folks. Guess they are both to the point where they can't clean up well. I would help them in a snap if my arms weren't so weak. Pittiful. PITTIful! Guess it's time to have a talk with my brother and sister who live near them. Mavis, my prayers continue for you and your family. I fear I will be in your shoes before too long.

~ Mrs. Wiley
"We're no spring chickens any more."

August 23, 2004 - Msg 23092: Hay man-those Mayberry in Star Trek shots are pretty spooky...gave me the creeps-TAKE THEM OFF! Don't ruin the memory of Mayberry!
BOOhoohoo!
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23093: Mayberry in Star Trek, that sounds like a "Twilight Zone" episode! haha
Thanks FLOYD! Seems like those mayberry teenagers need a ride along and a tour of the Rock! How were the events this weekend?
Spot- thanks for the fine dinner spread!
Now we just need to gather the Dillards for some strummin' and juggin'. "Pa, that un makes me cry."
Prayer truck #2 is now loading!Have a good day all.
MDC.
MD - thanks for the race update. I didnt have time to see it.
PIPEMAN? Where ya been?

August 23, 2004 - Msg 23094: Thank you Floyd.

Asa
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23095: The events this weekend went GREAT! Oakboro,NC on Friday night and then The Bluegrass Blue Ridge Jamboree up in Mt. Airy, NC on Saturday. Barney, Otis, Floyd, Opie, Howard and Ernest T visited Oakboro Music hall on Friday for their Mayberry Night and then Barney, Otis and Floyd headed up to Mt. Airy for Saturday nights show. It was just plain fun.
--Floyd
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23096: Floyd, I bet the Snappy Lunch was doin a booming business.
Ya all didn't try sneakin in the motel room by climbing in the back window, did ya? teehee
I sure hope to make it to some of those special events someday. It must be a hoot! Maybe I could meet you, MD and others.
Asa - how you been?
Sterling - you 2 ?
fun girl - stick around a spell.
APB for pipeman, Ed sawyer, Charlotte, ellen etc!
Auction tonight!
MDC

August 23, 2004 - Msg 23097: Hey yall! I am back from the beach! We had a perfect weather week. It was beautiful..especially with our ocean front room. I found Andy's house...although you can only see it by boat..but I got to see his driveway..should have taken a picture of it..rats..didnt think of it..cause it was raining that morning I guess! Didnt rain until our last day so that was great. Hope everyone is doing well. Thoughts are out your way Mavis!
Yall take care..so much unpacking here to do!

Alyce
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23098: hey ALCYE ..welcome back ,glad you had a nice trip
mayberry deputy
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23099: Good afternoon, everyone! Don't have time to sit and rock for very long, gotta go to work shortly, but just wanted to check in. Mavis, prayers continue for you, honey. I know that empty feeling when the normal routine is so abruptly changed. My car still wants to turn toward the assisted living center on Sunday morning, because I always picked my daddy up and took him to church. Mrs. Wiley, if you have siblings who live near your folks, then it certainly is time for them to step in and help out. Do they realize there's a need? Sometimes when someone is on the scene regularly, they don't notice the changes. Maybe they just need you to point it out.

I took Sugarplum to her doctor today. She just hasn't been acting right, a bit lethargic, not as playful, sticks too close to me, hesitates before jumping up on the ottoman, tail at half-mast instead of waving jauntily over her back - she's just not herself. Dr. couldn't find anything wrong, but he drew a blood panel and we'll have the results tomorrow. Guess I'll have to wait until then.

I finally got a little hummingbird coming in to visit my feeders. I had given up, and the sugar water was cloudy, so now that he's here, I've got the feeders all scrubbed and fresh sweet water cooling on the stove. Hope I can hang 'em back up before I have to go to work. I sure don't want to disappoint the little flying jewel.

Have a great evening, everyone. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena

August 23, 2004 - Msg 23100: MD - did you by any chance make it to Mt Airy for the festivities? Sounds like it was great fun.
Welcome back Alyce. Did you see Floyd perform?
Mr Darlin's Cuz
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23101: Ro, we posted at the same time. Too bad about the sugarplum. Hope she's feelin better soon.
Keep a smile at work tonight!
MDC
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23102: MDC.. sorry to say I didnt make it to Mt. Airy,sounds like those who did had a great time
mayberry deputy
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23103: Hey..MDC..I didnt go to Oxboro..or whereever that was..I went to the Outer Banks..but it would have been nice to see the performances!

Alyce
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23104: Welcome hom, Alyce, glad you had a good time.

Ro, hope Sugarplum is ok. Let us know when you get the results, please.

Been a busy day around here...I better go get the kids ready for bed. Maybe I can come back and sit on the porch later. I could use a nice, peaceful evening.

Boo
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23105: Glad to have you back on the porch safe & sound,Alyce! Glad to have Floyd back home too-thanks for tidying up around here!
Hope lil' Plum is okay,Romeena.Fingers crossed that all turns out fine!
Y'all have a nice night!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23106: Evenin' gentlefolk...

My, but haven't we had some ugliness intruding on the peaceful streets here lately. A good sweeping is what trash wants and Floyd has done admirably. During my recent troubles my daughter wanted to "chat" with the individual at the root of the problem. I told her, "Simply because you see dog mess on the sidewalk is no clear indication you HAVE to step in it." Seems good advice for just about most unpleasantness. Ignoring and marginalizinng such folk is always the best policy. As one of my personal favorites (Mark Twain) once said, "I never argue with idiots. Bystanders have trouble telling the difference." Just gotta' love Samuel Clemens. I just ran across another of his quotes that has had me smiling mischievously ever since: "I did not attend the funeral but I wrote a nice letter saying I approved."

I noted today the first leaves are giving up. This has been a most peculiar summer here in Texas. Can't help but wonder what the winter holds.

I go by the Porch name, Dragonfly. It seems wherever I am the dragonflies show up pretty thick and I really enjoy watching this helicopter of the insect world. I've seen some strange ones this summer. There's one that perches on the same stem at the pond each day, unremarkable except for his neon blue eyes (I call him "Frank" - for the Chairman of the Board). Then there's the red one that lights on the ornamental cross. That would be "Rusty". I've seen black ones with bright blue striped wings & white bodied ones with black striped wings (those remind me of the pics of our aircraft after D-Day). How peaceful it is to just watch them dip and hover on a hot summer day.

Well, 'nuf said. Just wanted to check in & say Hey! Hang on, dear Mavis. A day at a time, hon. Gentle hugs to all y'all... Blessings, Dragonfly
August 23, 2004 - Msg 23107: Oops... my bad. Thanks for the needed sweep, MDC.
Blessings, Dragonfly

"I am opposed ot millionaires, but it would be dangerous to offer me the position." -Mark Twain
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23108: Hello there fellow colleaug you tell mark he can jion medical school this year.i here its a blast

August 24, 2004 - Msg 23109: REMOVED
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23110: REMOVED
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23111: How's everyone doing today? I am still unpacking and cleaning..you know how it is when you've been gone away for a week.

Alyce
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23112: REMOVED

August 24, 2004 - Msg 23113: Hey everyone! I started back to school yesterday. Yech! I'm glad I'm almost through with my degree. I'm ready to be giving the test instead of taking them ;).


Hey Floyd we need you and I think you know what I mean........

Big Freeze still on? Good!

Later guys! I'll catch up on the porch news when I have more time.

Dixie Belle
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23114: hello to William Hensely welcome to the porch ,its full of real nice people ,except for a few interlopers wanting to cause trouble (msg #23109 and #23112 )
mayberry deputy
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23115: Mayberry deputy, just FYI, #23109, 23110 and 23112 are all written by the same person No welcome is needed. --Romeena
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23116: Big freeze for now, and Floyd will take care of them.
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23117: Good Afternoon Porch Friends,
How are one and all today? Things are okay on my edge of the porch. My little guy starts first grade next week. I can't believe how fast time is going these days! My older two seemed to get through school in such a hurry, but time is really flying now! My father had a theory about why time seems to speed up as you age. When you were a child, say twelve years old, one year of your life amounted to 1/12th of it. When you get to be 50, one year of your life amounts to 1/50th! A much smaller piece of the pie you might say.

Hey to William Hensely; and Dixie Belle, good luck in school.

Welcome back from your trip Alyce.

Dragonfly, you and Romeena are such wonderful writers, maybe you two should collaborate on something someday!

Have a blessed day one and all,
Mary Wiggins
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23118: Hey again..Yep, Ro..I put that together too..that this William Hensely is the author of the disgusting.
Its ashame!
Well back to cleaning and unpacking..

Alyce
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23119: Thanks Floyd...welcome home Alyce,hey MD,ASA,MW,MDC,pipeman,..tonight its grilled burgers with all the trimmings,chips,pickels[kerosene kuks]...koolaid,..will someone bring some slaw...signed:SPOT the"happy dog" of your porch ...lights are on
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23120: ROMEENA... thanks , I didnt realize that #23110 was the interloper ,after looking at the posts again I agree that they are most likely the same person ,so I guess I take my welcome back
SPOT ...burgers sound great ..everyone have a good day
mayberry deputy
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23121: Spot: If the burgers are done really well, I'll have a couple! When we were away last week, we went out to a great restaurant,that I have always loved..had a bad experience this time..The burgers were gross!! Bad meat!
I think it was too big too, I ordered a 1/2lb burger.

Alyce
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23122: Alyce burgers will be well done...got to be..hey can some make some baked beans?..SPOT
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23123: I'll bring the beans..kayro syrup, brown sugar, bacon..yummy!

Alyce
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23124: We will need someone to bring some tater salad too !...and I will go pull some little green onions from my garden..signed: SPOT the"got to work all night" dog of yall porch..watch my tail!
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23125: On second thought, why don't we extend a welcome, but at the same time say that this board is for TAGS fans, it's life lessons and it's values
expressed on the show?
Like I hear so many say, "Jesus sat with the tax collectors and sinners", which is true; BUT (and so many forget that "but"), in the same passages, he also evangelized them, told them their sins were wrong, AND how they had to change!(ie:M.Mag)
Ok, I'm standin on my soapbox, so I'll slip it back under the porch for a spell.
Spot- thanks for fixin dinner again, or is it supper? Oh well, it sure smells good.
Last night's local ep (we're in the color ones now) was of Emmitt's BIL wanting him to sell insurance, but in the end Emmitt's love is the
fix-it shop. Great show for me as I switched from "white collar" to "blue" and just love it also!
Hey to all the moms home with the kids, to pipeman, floyd and others settin on the porch today! hey to Goober too.
MDC

August 24, 2004 - Msg 23126: MDC.. nothing wrong with being on the soap box ,especially when you are saying such truths
MD
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23127: Alyce, I like my burgers well-done too, so supper sounds good to me, Spot!

-Sterling Holobyte
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23128: MD, I was going to say something like that to MDC, but you said it much better!
-Sterling Holobyte
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23129: Sterling and all others...burgers will be well done and good..a little whitch-this-here sauce on then while cooking..the grill is almost hot!Alyce the beans sound great!..yall wana go for a bike ride after supper?..signed: SPOT the"got my apron on " dog
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23130: If we are having beans then going for a bike ride I dibbs the lead bike.:)

Asa
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23131: That's good thinking, Asa. Can I ride up front next to you?

MDC, I am curious....what did you used to do and what do you do now? I sometimes wish my husband was blue collar instead of white. He seems to be under so much stress in his administrative position. He is the outdoor type that would love to be a hunting guide or something (not unless we win the lottery).

Gotta go....
Boo
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23132: Hey..I'll bring the tater salad too..with my homemade sweet pickle!! Yum Yum..No bike ride..we have to have dessert..then play Mayberry Trivia..

Alyce
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23133: Boo: what does your husband do?
My husband is blue collar and loves it. He makes good money too. Not boasting, just saying that blue collar isnt always a bad thing.

Alyce
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23134: MDC, your latest
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23135: oops...
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23136: Am I still having difficulties?

August 24, 2004 - Msg 23137: I fear, dear porchsters, I've forgotten how to turn the bold off... so sorry, Dragonfly
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23138: I'll fix it Dragonfly...I have some cleaning to do anyway.
--Floyd
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23139: There we go. All is well. Y'all are doing a great job just giving the "Big Freeze" to those that are causing problems. I'm working the issues and I'll continue to remove anything that needs removing as soon as I'm able. We'll take care of them soon.

I also fixed Dragonfly's bold problem so everythings okay...in Mayberry.
--Floyd
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23140: Your the greatest ole boy Floyd!
Thanks..
Alyce
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23141: Boo, I taught school for many many years (white collar, tho some may say it's blue, teehee)
but all those years of 7th and 8th graders finally did me in! (another teehee) Since then, I have driven a truck, worked in a printshop and currently help run a mailroom and help clean out dializers for kidney dialysis. I liked teaching, but just burnt out, so now, like Emmitt I just get into helpin' and cleanin' and hopin' the "toast don't burn!" I hope to retire in about 6 years, but til then I am pretty darn happy.
(I visit my mom with alz a lot too nowadays),
have a wonderful wife and count my blessings daily!
Mr Darlin's Cuz
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23142: You fixed it, Floyd? You da' man! Thanks ever so much... Dragonfly
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23143: My Mama always told me not to fiddle with stuff I didn't understand. Note to self: Listen to Mama. It's a wonderment I ever figured out my ball point pen.

Regarding potty-mouth, he's most like the kid who never fit in who liked to go behind the barn & say ugly stuff. It's a great place to do that kind of thing due to its proximity to the woodshed. I suspect if that had been done by this adolescent's parents to begin with we wouldn't be discussing the matter now. Just my opinion.

I like the current discussion on blue/white collar. I am a partner in a company that works with electrical engineers in specifications and applications of products. Although I'm in a suit a good bit of the time I weasel my way in to "wrench-turning" a good bit of the time. It's the "instant gratification" of seeing a job done right and teaching the youngsters the "tricks of the trade" that capture me. I hurt a bit more than I did in my youth but the satisfaction is comfortable. There was a young nun in France in the 19th century who consistently asked for the "grunt jobs", the work no one else wanted. Her take was the menial task done well and with love was a fitting offering to the Lord. She called it her "Little Way". She is now known as St. Therese of Lisieux. What a gentle and comforting way to live your life; serving others and your Lord at the same time. Almost like "double-dipping", hmmm....

Blessings to each of you... Dragonfly
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23144: Hey, Mary Wiggins... Just "went upstairs" & saw your comment. With all that's been said about Ro here lately, you've put me in good company indeed. Thank you for your kindness. I think with my head but I write with my heart. If anyone on the porch ever wants to write directly, my "real" nickname is "Pete" & I can be found at bynumjas@sbcglobal.net
Blessings always, Dragonfly
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23145: Dragonfly, there will be a movie out in October on the life of St.Therese... hope it's playing in your area! Hope it's playing in mine for that matter. Her life story has been very inspiring to me.

Floyd, thanks again, we'll stay on yellow alert here (one of us awake at all times).

~ Mrs. Wiley
Barney: "I WILL AT NO TIME WHILE WEARING THE UNIFORM OF A MAYBERRY DEPUTY TAKE A DRINK."
Otis: "I will try to look like a deputy and act like a deputy."

August 24, 2004 - Msg 23146: Evenin' everyone, we had a great time in Destin. The weather was perfect and no storm damage in the panhandle. The fishin' was perfect. We slaied 'em. Went to a unique place to eat in Foley, Alabama called Lamberts throwed roll cafe. And do they ever throw them rolls..just hold up your hands and they throw rolls all the way across the place. Country ham big as a Buick hub cap fried okera,'taters and onions,black eyed peas...makes the natural water run outta my mouth. If you ever getta chance ta' go ya' owe it ta' yourself. Well its redneck round up time in Tennessee. Ats right Bristol night race this weekend. I got 4 tickets handed ta' me today at work,so I reckon we're goin after all. The Kingsport paper said they estimated 80,ooo+ campers would be decendin' on us this week makin' Bristol the largest city in Tn. for three days. Thanks Dixie for the info you nailed it. Glad your vacation went as planed Alyce and everybody faired well last week. Night all I'm give out...Big Tom
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23147: Hello all!
Big Tom..you are a true redneck..I love it! Glad you had a great time. Wish I had one of these Lamberts near me..sounds enticing! Dragonfly..it is good to hear that you will go into the Wrench Turning mode at work. There are so many that dont. My husband talks about the "supervisors" that actually cant come out and help, etc..cause they dont know anything about the job. That is what kills me..you can get anyone to be a supervisor to these jobs that they know nothing about. (my husband is a maintanance mechanic) Anyway..enough of me rambling..
Alyce
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23148: Hey ya'll! Thanks for the APB. I'm been having serious 'puter problems. Sorry I'm so out of the conversation and with what's going on. Didn't even realize Mavis' mama had passed. So sorry about that and I can't even send her an email cuz my address book got wiped out. Will get on the Cutlass first chance to get it. Keep up the good work, Floyd.
Charlotte Tucker
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23149: Well, since I don't have favorites either, I don't have the Cutlass address. Can someone give it to me please?
Thanks
CT
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23150: Mrs. Wiley... How kind of you to give me the heads up. I'll look for the movie in October. Therese prayed to spend her heaven letting fall a "shower of roses" on us on this side of the veil. What a lovely thought.

Miss Alyce, your gentleman husband has a legitimate complaint. My Papa always told me "you can't lead a person in their responsibilities if you have not successfully fulfilled those responsibilities yourself." A wise man, my Papa. It all comes down to an issue of respect. That is something that cannot (other than that respect we are bound to issue to someone else as a child of God) be given away. It must be earned. I have to look at my homely mug in the mirror as I take my brush and lather my face each morning. I'd best be able to look me in the eye. I'm a man. I've worked hard and bled to be able to say that and I demand the same of others. That's not unreasonable. Only from my manhood can I acknowledge the manhood of other men. Only from my manhood can I honor the ladies the Lord places before me. Otherwise, it means very little.

Sorry, gentlefolk, I'll place my soapbox under the porch with MDC's. Have you noticed the waxing moon the past few nights? I suspect we'll have a celestial show when she reaches full. It makes me almost giddy to anticipate the "harvest moon" we'll see at the end of September & again in October. I just love the seasons but have to reach for them here in Texas.

Have a blessed night & may our gentle Shepherd place His angels 'round about you this eventide.

...Dragonfly
August 24, 2004 - Msg 23151: Good evening, all. Dragonfly, I feel honored to be mentioned in the same sentence as you, because I love the way you write. As you said it so well, you write with your heart. I can imagine that you read a lot as well. Most writers do. It's good to have you back on the porch, friend.

Floyd, you are one of the great national treasures, in my opinion. Thank you, for all that you do for us.

I heard from the Plum's doctor today. Her blood work was not normal, but he's not sure just what the abnormal values signify. The main problem was a strangely elevated lipid profile, almost like you might see in diabetes, but her glucose was normal. She hasn't been eating any fatty foods, so we're not sure just what this was all about. He wants to repeat the labs next week, and says he thinks it's probably just a fluke elevation, and will be gone by then. I did allow her to free-range under the grandsons' chairs at the youngest one's birthday party Sunday night, so am not sure just how much birthday cake and frosting she might have lucked into. I usually monitor her food more closely than that, but it was a party, doesn't happen but once or twice a year, why not let her enjoy herself? Well, maybe I'm finding out why not. Anyway, we'll recheck next week. I appreciate you all being concerned about her. I know you realize how important she is to me.

Well, guess I'll turn in. Nite-nite, everyone. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena

August 25, 2004 - Msg 23152: a big hello to everyone= love and miss you when i'm not able to keep up. been so busy lately, had lots of great friends helping me with long over due projects, we added a wooden porch rail, two rockers and 2 white wicker chairs. trying to catch up before winter. working on the railsplitters weekend, our club is setting up andy memorbilla, a notebook for guests to put where there from and there favorite character. back in the good ole days most tv series were shot on same location with only name changes. walkers drug was in that star trek episode also. thanks for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers. prayers go out to all in need. long lost pipeman
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23153: Romeena, she's our Sugarplum too and we think the world of her! Hope this is something passing with her, poor puppy! Pipeman, glad to see you posting! Sounds like you are getting caught up on your chores, what would we do without good friends? Charlotte, the address for the Cutlass is:
http://www.geocities.com/porchsters/
Hey to Alyce and Big Tom! Good to hear the trips went smoothly. Wonder where our dear (regular) TOM went off to? Hope he's OK. Prayers for all us porchters and family, 'speshuly Mavis.

~ Mrs. Wiley
Barney: ..."oh, there are things of wonder of which men like to sing, like (something something something), or birds upon the wing."

Does anyone know the whole Juanita poem?

August 25, 2004 - Msg 23154: Good morning fellow porchters. How is everyone doing? I am busy with clothes. My friend is having a yard sale and last night she called me over to get first dibbs on girls clothes..I made out like a bandit..brought home 26 dresses, among other things. She takes very good care of her clothes and they are very good quality brands. Such good friends I have. I wont have to buy my oldest any clothes this fall I dont think..if so not many!
Yall have a great day!

Alyce
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23155: "I'd just like you to take a look at the record book, Mister Jackson." *shivers*
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23156: Was that from the ep "Andy on Trial"?
Wow, great posts today!
Dragonfly, don't know if you follow Biblical prophecy or not, but Paul in Rev. describes
an attack of giant "dragonflies" which we can now see must be helicopters! The Apache and others profiles look just like a dragonfly. In fact, the Army is currently working on a new one with the nickname 'dragonfly.' Very interesting stuff!
PIPEMAN! Could to see you posing again. Hope you're getting things caught up.
Ro and Charlotte glad you are both ok. Food can often cause some of those problems that the Sugarplum may have.
Did anyone hear Paul Harvey's "Rest of the Story" today? It was on the origin of the FRONT PORCH on houses in America! very interesting! I'll give you the "rest of the story" on it later.
Only 99 in Phoenix area today, hopefully the intense days of summer are over.
ya all hang in there.
MDC
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23157: Pipeman, that should be "GOOD to see you POSTING"
sheech! MDC
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23158: Anyone have supper planned?
Teriyaki pork tenderloin (grilled) over here..trying to figure out what to go with it..my cabinets are bare!

Alyce
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23159: Ok, I figured it out..nothing fancy...just green peas and buttered noodles to go with the pork..and garlic bread..
good enough!

Alyce
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23160: Do you have any magic beans?
Just kidding, Alyce!

Speaking of front porches, did you know there is a discussion board over on Ebay called "The Front Porch"? Do you think Floyd should sue? ;)

-Sterling Holobyte
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23161: Afternoon Porch!

We're having pizza over here. Delivery, not Digiorno! I have too much going on this evening so I have the night off from cooking and there is a new pizza place in town that is supposed to be real good. We'll see.

Mavis, I am still thinking of you, better days will come. I remember looking at perfect strangers after my parents died, and wondering how could they just go on so glibly with life when my world was changed so dramatically. I felt somehow all the world should have noticed that things were just not quite the same any more. The pain isn't so extreme any more, and the knowledge that our parents are in God's care now does help quite a bit.

Hey Sterling, How's things by you? Glad to see you posting!

MDC, I would love to hear "The Rest of the Story" on porches. Clue us in please!

Romeena, you let us know as soon as the Plum returns to her normal playful self. I will say a prayer for her. (I know God cares about her, because He cares about YOU!)

Asa, you need to take a moment out and sit with us! We miss you. Any fire works shows coming up to wind down the summer? How is your garden doing?

Guess I better go act like somebody!

Have a great Mayberry Afternoon,
Mary Wiggins
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23162: You all are just so special. What would I do without you? Thanks for caring about my little furkid, it's appreciated. Actually, she's pretty much back to her regular little perky self, though she still hesitates to jump up on the ottoman. I suppose that could be the first signs of age, though I don't want to admit it. As for the weird lipids in her blood, I've about decided that could be because she got more birthday cake Sunday night than I realized. The kids dropped a lot, and she's not very big, so a little is a lot for her. Anyway, the repeat labs next week should tell the story.

Mary Wiggins, that pizza sounds good. My favorite place doesn't deliver, so I have to go get it, but it's worth it. That's a definite possibility for supper tonight. Pork chops sound pretty good, too - hmmmm, decisions, decisions.

Well, got errands to run, guess I'd better get after it. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23163: Boo: I have been looking through my new Gooseberry Patch catalog..really neat I might add. I was wondering how long it takes for shipping on their items. I havent checked yet, but are the shipping fees outrageous?
Thanks,
Alyce
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23164: Everybody to Marys for pizza..doesent matter to me what kind....just love pizza pie..I will bring my bongos!..Hey Alyce save me a slice of that pork tenderloin for a bisquit in the morning!..I will conjure us up a snack for later around 8 or so..Hey dragonfly!,mw,ct,boo,asa,pipeman,mdc,md,fg,hazel,and all the porchsters...signed:SPOT the"just got done teaching a class here at the power company and got to work all night" dog of this here fine porch!..lights are on!
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23165: Hey, MDC! Pretty interesting about the helicopters. I've always liked the things ever since I got the bejeebers scared out of me on a Huey by a warrant officer with a sense of humor.

Me, I think I'm going to Esparza's tonight for some good old fashioned Mexican food. You know, they have these big ol' green Slurpies that make you giggle if you're not careful. Their pickles are pretty hot, too.

SPOT, what do you do with the power company? I'm in the electrical business so it's professional curiosity.

I've mowed the yard (at 100 deg.) & it's time to go wash me. Did y'all know fire-ants get positively testy when you run over their mounds? No doubt how they feel about it either.

Y'all have a gentle evenin' on the Porch. Leave the bicarb on the kitchen counter for me... Dragonfly
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23166: Dragonfly my "quote" job is Master Power Control Tech......I work in the control center watching over all the sub stations and such..been doing this 6 years worked outside running a crew for 18 years, been with Cobb EMC for almost 24 years now, they wanted some cross over training so they talked me into taking this job..what do you do?SPOT
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23167: SPOT,ASA,MDC,PIPEMAN.. truck racing at Bristol on SPEED channel tonight yeeeeessss, back to some good short track action
mayberry deputy
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23168: Thank you to all you wonderful porchsters for your continued prayers & support, I surely do need them. This is so hard to do, I cry everyday, usually at night when I have nothing to occupy my mind with. TV doesn't interest me, can't read (forget what I just read & have to start over again) just plain don't want to do anything. My mother was such a HUGE part of my everyday life, that I just don't know what to do without her! We still have people coming into the shop asking for her & have to explain to them that she passed away, we do that at least 10 times a day. Of course, I know they are truely concerned, my mother was loved by alot of people & to be honest, I really never knew just how MANY lives my mother has touched over the years! Makes me proud, but makes me sad at the same time. Why didn't I see that, cause I was with her all the time & just took it for granted?? Our shop is right next door to an RV campground & as all you know, the race is in Bristol this weekend, most people reserve the same spot for the next race before they leave & just about all of them with animals come to the shop to kill time during the day. So we had 3 couples from the campground come over today to visit with Mom & get 'racing gear' for their puppies & 2 of them actually broke down in tears when we told them we just lost her a few weeks ago. Tomorrow, there will probably be more, I know of at least 3 more couples that made our shop a regular stop while in town for the race. I dread going in to the shop some days, Mom isn't there & sometimes I feel like we are having to comfort the customers when they break down. Mighty confusing sometimes. Big Tom I noticed your post about getting tickets, congrats, those are hard to come by! I also saw where you said something about campers descending on 'us' do you live near the track? I am in Bristol, on the VA side. Anyway, I'm still around, just extremely depressed & sore from all the sobbing & swollen eyes & all, & Boo please don't tell me to use VICKS on my swollen eyes, then I'll be crying even more! ;) (I'm trying to find some laughter ya'll.)
*Mavis
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23169: DANG IT! told ya'll things weren't right with me, but I wasn't meaning to be so bold about it~!
Don't need to sign cause ya'll know who did that.
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23170: Good Grief! Sorry ya'll, fixed now, reminds me of my nephew when he was just learning to talk. He would break a toy or something & run to Mom crying asking her to fix it, let me or my sister try to fix it & we would hear "No, NANNY fick it" we still say that, 20 years later, only now, Nanny is not around to "fick" it anymore. :(
*Mavis
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23171: Hugs to ya Mavis...MD yep truck racing tonight, gona be a good race weekend....lets make fried bologna sandwiches for a snack tonight!..SPOT
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23172: SPOT...I like a slice of vidalia onion and mustard on my fried bologna sandwich and a glass of sweet tea to wash it down with ..off to watch the race
mayberry deputy
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23173: Fried bologna makes the house smell bad, ya'll, could you grill it instead??
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23174: You got it mayberry deputy!..chips and one or two pickled okras...SPOT
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23175: ((((HUGS)))) and prayers continue for Mavis.
We love ya and appreciate ya!
Good to see pipeman aboard too.
Spot- did you hear about the 400,000 lb transformer that went out in Phx this summmer?
it was quite a trek to get another down from Washington state.
Ok, here's the Rest of the Story on the origin of the Front Porch in America...
(In not nearly as eloquent words as Paul harvey's)
Apparently some of the early folks coming over on the boats a couple centuries ago had brought with them a marvelous idea to cool down. it was something that caught the evening breezes, and pretty soon they were being made all over the
place in the south and soon around the country as it was settled. But the originators had brought the idea with them across the ocean from whence they came.... which, believe it or not, was Africa! Yes the early slaves started building
porches on their quarters as they had in their country, and would sit out on them in the evenings, and pass the time with song and chatter.
Soon the owners started building porches on their plantation homes! And now you know "the rest of the story!"
Have a nice ev'ning all.
MDC

August 25, 2004 - Msg 23176: Mavis, bless your poor little aching heart! I understand only too well, and can offer nothing that will help much right now. It just takes time, honey, lots of time. I thought I would die when my husband passed away, and indeed was disappointed when I didn't. People told me it would get better and I thought to myself, "Yeah, what do you know about it?" Now I know those sentiments were kindly meant, and actually proved to be true, finally. It did get better. You don't "get over it", but you do learn to live with it. You have a uniquely difficult situation, because of being in business together, and people coming in looking for her, it makes it hard for the wound to heal. Just try to look at each encounter as a sweet commentary on your mom's life, and be grateful that people, even passing acquaintances, liked her enough to miss her. Prayers for you, honey.

Who on earth appointed the film editors on TVLand, who keep cutting out the "Giraffes are selfish" part of "Dogs, Dogs, Dogs" episode? Don't those knotheads realize that they're editing out what is probably the funniest line in the whole show? They lead up to it, Barney mentions giraffes, but the cut out the final punch lines. Blockheads!

Well, g'nite, friends. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23177: MY, how full the porch is today. I love it!

MDC, thanks for the porch trivia, now I know the "rest of the story"...hehe

Mavis, I wish I was close by to give you a long hug and just sit and be with you, maybe make you a batch of chicken and dumplings. If only there was some way to ease your pain right now. I have no doubt that in time things will get better but right now, its so hard. I hope that having us to talk to helps a little. Its hard to sit on this side of the computer and not be able to actually be with the people we care about when they are hurting. God continue to bring healing to your heart. Oh, and I won't ask you to put VICKS in your eyes, although the thought did occur to me (kidding, of course). heehee

Ro, was the birthday cake Plum ate chocolate by any chance? I have always heard that chocolate is toxic to dogs (please don't tell Sugarplum that I called her the "D" word).

Alyce, I am so glad you are enjoying your Gooseberry Patch catalog. I can't remember how long the shipping takes but I know it wasn't long. Shipping can be pricey but if you register on their web site, at certain times of the year they will send a notice and a code to use when ordering that will give you free shipping. I haven't been unhappy with service I have received. One thing they do that is neat is that you can order something for someone else, say for a birthday or Christmas, and they will deliver it straight to them. I have a friend in Nevada that loves Gooseberry and sometimes I do that for her and it is much simpler than packing and mailing a gift to her. You asked me what my husband does, well he is what is called a Local Area Network Administrator, which means he he a computer man for the branch of government he works for. Its alot of stress because he sort of does it all, he only has one other young guy that works with him. Its stressful but we are thankful that he makes enough money that I don't have to work outside the home. We are by no means rich, though (at least not financially--we are rich in God's blessings).

So nice to have you back on the porch, Dragonfly.

Think I'll shuffle off to bed now that Baby Girl is FINALLY asleep. She was very excited tonight because I bought myself a bike today and put one of those kiddie seats on the back. I took her for a spin and she loves it. I can't wait for the weather to cool off so I can really enjoy it. This morning it was 91 degrees at 9:45am and 107 by the afternoon! The air is so thick you can cut it with a knife.

Ya'll have a peaceful night,
Boo
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23178: Yea MDC heard about the tran in Phx..Boo 107..wow ..now just what part of the porch do you sit?..Im in Ga...nice here ..mid 80"s..hey Ro and sugarplum..having some chicken noodle soup and gona find a movie and settle in for the night here at the old power company till 6am..think I will make a grill cheese too.gona pitch the tent in the back woods sat night and camp with the kids..camp fire and stuff..signed: SPOT the"gona try to find a western to watch" dog of the greatest porch in America!...lights are on!
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23179: Why, thank you, Boo. It's good to be back. I do love the sound of a rocker on a wood porch. SPOT, my company specializes in specification and applications work with technical products. We don't usually usually do "sales" stuff but rather work with the electrical engineering community to ensure the products specified will perform in a particular application or environment. As I said earlier I do manage to weasel my way into some wrench turning now and again & enjoy it. My particular specialty is concerned with issues surrounding grounding practices, lightning protection and surge suppression. Regarding that last, the power companies get a bad rap on "dirty" power. Most (85%) of surge issues are created intra-system within a manufacturing environment. I also get mixed up in Triplen harmonic issues and power factor correction. I'm paid to do site surveys and go on "special" errands for some manufacturers. I see some interesting places like White Sands Proving Grounds. Hard to tell those folks it isn't rocket science because.... well... they're rocket scientists... sheesh.

Dear Mavis, each of us would take your hurt for you if we could. We can (and do) pray for you and know time will help. Each of us know our only hold on immortality is our children. The same is true of your mother. The way to honor her and probably the only way to keep her "present" is to take all the good, wonderful, loving and wise attributes that made her so special and keep them alive in yourself and those you hold dear. Project them to others, keep alive that sense of giving of oneself and she'll be there as surely as you are reading this. But first, of course, comes the grieving. Don't try to stop it, don't try to shorten it. Drink it to the lees and when it is finally done you'll be left only with... love.

Blessings to you, gentlefolk... Dragonfly
August 25, 2004 - Msg 23180: Sounds great dragonfly...the power factor area we watch close..still trying to find a western movie with no luck..o-well back to the hunt..signed:SPOT the"talking dog" of your porch
August 26, 2004 - Msg 23181: Good Morning Porch!..this morning its center cut country ham,bisquits,red eye gravy,hashbrowns with cheese,eggs [your style],white toast,apple butter,sliced canalope,ice cold milk,coffee and a tear from my roll of paper towels!..dont be late!..signed:SPOT the"saying grace and a prayer fo all in need" dog of your porch..lights are on and im tired and going home right after breakfast..
August 26, 2004 - Msg 23182: But you have got to get some sleep Spot! Well I am off to plan our mountain trip for the fall.

Alyce
August 26, 2004 - Msg 23183: "Everything about that letter - the way it's written, the way it's folded, the way the envelope is sealed - EVERYTHING points to just one thing: R-E-V-E-N-G!"
"Reveng?"
"You know what I mean!"
August 26, 2004 - Msg 23184: Love that Barney!
August 26, 2004 - Msg 23185: Wow Spot, I'm stuffed just reading that! Sure sounds good, though. To answer your question, I am way down in the bottom of Texas on the Gulf Coast (Corpus Christi) and this is always the hottest time of the year for us. It will continue to be hot through September and then we usually have a few cool fronts in October.

Alyce, tell us more about this mountain trip. Where will you go. Sounds like you folks really like to travel. I think I will be going to Colorado this December (I am going to try it again after the disasterous trip December before last when my daughter got sick). Anyway, my husband has some time off and my dear old dad needs a vacation in the worst way so it looks like we will be taking him. We just adore Colorado and love to go snow tubing in a place called Winter Park (anyone been there???). There is this snow tubing hill called Frasier Hill that is amazing. Its very high, long and fast and it has a tram thing that takes you back up the hill. The only problem is the alt-tude (sensor). I am used to being at sea level here on the coast and when you get me up in the mountains I don't have the strength I do here (which ain't much a-tall!). Its so beautiful, though. I always leave my heart in Colordo.

Better go see about the kids,
Boo
August 26, 2004 - Msg 23186: Hey there..Boo: Colorado sounds nice! My husband would probably like to go there. I cant ski a lick..he laughs so hard at me rolling down the slopes. The first time I ever went, was a class trip in high school..the next day I was covered in bruises!
We like to go to the mountains every fall to see the beautiful fall foliage and pick apples. We go down the Blue Ridge Parkway/Sky Line drive. Its gorgeous. Last fall we went to Graves Mountain in Syria, VA ...not too far from Charlottesville. We are going back there this October too for their Apple Festival..music, apples, food, etc...I planned it this morning so its all taken care of..we will just go away for one night. Its only a 3 hour drive. We are going away again in December for our Anniversary too. Yea, I'd say we like to travel, but we dont go too far...at least not yet with the baby.The furthest we've been with her is 5 hours, and that was to Mt. Airy. I like to go a lot..being at home all the time, I just like to take mini vacations.

Alyce
August 26, 2004 - Msg 23187: Im Bach gona read the mail...SPOT
August 26, 2004 - Msg 23188: that was "back"....DUH...
August 26, 2004 - Msg 23189: Hey, SPOT, I'll say you do. There is a move on to reset the acceptable power factor from .90 to .95 Gotta' watch pf correction though what with harmonics & waveform issues. I'd say .95 is getting pretty close to unity, huh? Sorry for the "bizness" stuff, gentlefolk, but it really is interesting... Dragonfly
August 26, 2004 - Msg 23190: That's ok Spot...I just thought you were into classical music! teehee
Last night's local ep was about Howard going to live on a tropical island! "Wanna buy a ship in a bottle?" My burning question, why didnt he first just try a VACATION there?
Oh well, then there would be no show, I guess.
Ya all have a Mayberry kind o day.
Prayers continuing for all hurtin' porchsters, families and friends. You're the best!
Mr Darlin's Cuz