April 11, 2007 - Msg 51198:
Thank you Millie! That's what I was doing yesterday in Tn, working in the recording studio on a new cd. But glad you like the song. Every song that I write, that's my prayer, that it ministers to someone.
-REV.
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51199:
Well I guess I have time to sweep the porch before I hit the sack.
-REV.
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51200: Prayers continuing for Sugarplum.
- Hazel
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51201: Thank you, Hazel. I really do appreciate that. She's moving around a little better this morning. I just wish I knew whether this lameness is related to the spleen thing or not. I don't think it is. Poor little girl.

Thanks, REV. That's pretty much on the mark. I really never intended to hurt anyone's feelings. I just get carried away sometimes. That's why, when it comes to politics from now on - tick-a-lock! --Romeena
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51202: Hope little Plum feels better soon. I know God is watching out for her (and Romeena). Peace to you, Ro.

Aw shucks, Auh2o, I wish you would reconsider because I will really miss you and your opinions. I think you're awesome. You feel like family, you know?

Better go get Erin ready for school. Today begins Sean's first day of homeschooling in almost 3 years. The poor thing cried yesterday over having to leave his friends and teacher and I wish he didn't have to. He is the kind of kid that has a real need to be around other kids, more than the average I think, so I am going to have to take extra pains to make sure he gets plenty of time with his friends. The school he attended has youth services on Wed nights so I may take him to those so he can stay in contact with his friends and we will be living right next door soon. Speaking of...we are supposed to have our drive-way put in today so the dump trucks can bring in the sand for the foundation...of course I'm not getting my hopes up cause it may still be a while!

I mentioned my nephew coming from California on the weekend, well he brought home the sweetest girl! I think they are talking about getting married in the future. I really like this girl so I hope it works out for him. Ben is in the air force and doing well so I think he will be ready soon. She seems very grounded and family (others) oriented. My brother Dave and his wife are flying in today from California. Hoorah! I can't wait to see him, it's been over a year. He is a great guy and his wife is very nice, too. Dave is a athletics teacher at a college and he coaches a women's golf team. I think he actually met his wife in an aerobics class he was teaching. He was in a very bad marriage for years. His first wife had some mental health issues and their relationsip was more than tough but Dave stayed in there. She finally made the decision to leave and not too long after, Dave met his current wife and she has been so good to him. He is very happy and that blesses me and he didn't just forget about his first wife, he has helped her and provided for her financially.

Millie, hope you are still having a great time. I am watching a great Joan Crawford movie. Something about "Susan and God"? Have you seen it. I love to watch Joan Crawford.

Better go...

Boo
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51203: Wow, that was looong, sorry.

Ro, I hope I can still email you if I want your opinion about political things.

Boo
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51204: I just read the archives and I too am guilty of speaking my mind on political issues. Being a conservative is just in my blood by my in-laws are not conservative and they do not support our President in anyway. Heaven knows I keep my mouth shut in front of my father-in-law. So, I will keep my mouth shut here as well. Unless I just can't contain it - - -no promises, but I'll try. Thank you Hazel for bringing this to our attention because we never want to alienate anyone from the porch. Mayberry is truly a bi-partisan place.

Boo - I never saw you as a Joan Crawford fan. But then you probably never saw me as one for broadway musical films.

Have a great day everyone - it is raining here!

hm

April 11, 2007 - Msg 51205: I don't want Auh2o to leave either. I think I'm more the lone porchster out, so to speak, so I'll just try to not let these things bother me. So, as Barney would say, "Go back to whatever you were doing! What were you doing?"
- Hazel
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51206: ...oh, I wouldn't say I was a Joan Crawford fan. I usually like her movies, though, especially the ones with Bette Davis. Just wonderful, cat-like chemistry between the two! No, I wouldn't have taken you for a broadway musical films fan. What's your favorite?

Boo
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51207: Ha! I love that quote, Hazel. Don't you worry, you speak your mind whenever you want to, you hear?

Boo
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51208: Good morning everyone!

How long did y’all think it would take for me to open up my yap about the political talk discussion? Well, I don’t want to disappoint…

First, let me say, as resident porch “Peacenik,” that I understand HAZEL’s comments and appreciate the kind and reasonable way in which they were made. HAZEL: You should have been the one meeting with those Russians in Mayberry (how do you say that name? Vasiliovch?). There are times, too, when I have been the odd man out, so to speak. The difference is I like bantering back and forth—as long as it’s done with respect and without malice. Heck, I have a number of friends who are Democrats (heck, even a few Green Party!) and we enjoy talking politics. The reason? Because it’s no fun arguing politics with strangers but it’s a wonderful opportunity to engage the mind—and preconceived ideas—when talking with friends who come from a different perspective. I can’t tell you how many times my own opinions have been changed over time by discussions with friends. That said, perhaps we have let some of the discussion turn from the productive to the smart-alecky variety. For that, I apologize. We should always be respectful of others feelings.

Now, as far as anybody leaving (are you listening AUH2O?), well, everyone is entitled to do as they wish but I have to tell you that it is not necessary. Friends disagree, but they don’t walk out on a relationship over a simple misunderstanding. So, anyone is free to leave if they wish (of course) but they need to understand what they are actually doing. I really, really hope that you both are not serious about leaving.

Me? I intend to continue talking TAGS, weather, church, kids, food, holidays, health, and (yes) politics. But I will try to be more considerate about my tone in the future. If there becomes subjects that we can’t talk about as friends—if this becomes the “politically correct porch”—I don’t have time for that. I’ve come to really like you people and consider you friends. I have enough acquaintances to chit-chat with.

You all have a nice day.

Me-They
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51209: Good sweep Rev!...missed breakfast,busy here at work....early lunch:.tuna fish salad sandwiches,pickels,lays wavy chips,mountian dew...back in a bit...SPOT
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51210: Lydia doesn't like chit-chat, M-T, good thing I'm not Lydia. . .

Boo - I really love Bing Crosby movies (Holiday Inn, White Christmas) and the Road pictures as well. Oh yes, Donald O'Connor too! and Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire - Loved them all!! Do you all remember the Ma and Pa Kettle movies. . .with GearDuct and Crowbar (the Native Americans - or can I say Indians?) Pa would always say, "C'mon boys. . ." in a real slow drawn out manner.

Time to help my student finish his government paper - we are doing it on Veterans Issues. We really could have a moulage there!

hm
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51211: Okay, it's my turn... I've only been here a short while, but I already consider you all to be friends. Like many have said, friends don't always agree with one another and that's okay. We weren't all stamped out of the same mold. As Rev. has said, I'm going to stand up for my Christian convictions. If someone disagrees with me, that's their choice.

Millie, I love what you said, "Let's play nice!" You're some kind of gal with your upbeat attitude. You're always an encouragement to me!

Ro, you're a very gracious lady indeed! I think we all get carried away with ourselves from time to time. Continued prayers for you and the Plum.

auh2o, if you leave, you will force us to drag you back in whatever manner we have to. Please don't let things go that far! :)

Boo, hope you have a wonderful time with your family. Prayers for Sean concerning home school. So glad to hear that the Easter services with the Bible study group went well.

Well, I better get some things done. Wednesdays are always rushed for us because my youngest has piano lessons and we have to get through with school so early!

God bless you all!

Miss Peggy
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51212: Hey to you ladies.

By the way, I'm neither a Democrat or Republican. I'm a registered Independent. I wouldn't join either party if you paid me. Well, maybe if you paid me. How much will you pay me?

And, I'm a socialist (how's that for a moulage starter?).

Me-They
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51213: Oh no - a socialist. . .I think we better go back to chit chat! :)

hm
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51214: Just take a breath and remember: socialism is an economic system, not a political system. Feel any better?

Socialism trivia: Did you know that Francis Bellamy, Bapstist minister and author of the "Pledge of Allegiance," was a Christian socialist?

Me-"distribution of wealth"-They
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51215: Me-They, you definitely add 'spice' to the front porch... you 'ole renegade! :):):)

Miss Peggy
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51216: Mornin' Dears! Have a great day! I'm taking the kids to the aquarium in Manteo today, I'll check in later.
Millie
ps...I'll tell Andy "hey" from the porch while I'm there, lol.
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51217: OK Peacenik, bring me your shorts.

Boo
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51218: Hi all --well daughter has gone back to the coast and the visit was kind of a mixed bag-there are still some things I don't understand.
ankle is still hurting and my heart too.
I miss her much.
Ahappynut
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51219: MISS PEGGY: I prefer "scamp."

BOO: I'm glad that you didn't read redistribution of wealth to mean redistribution of work :).

M-T
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51220: Prayers for you Happynut. Take it easy.
Y'all get your mouths set for a big supper. I'm makin' chicken 'n dumplin's!
Millie
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51221: Thank you lucy and everyone for your prayers.
I am going to talk to my tharapist this afternoon.
I also enrolled in the water arobics class at the local "Y'.
I have to start an exersize program soon.
my weight is gettin out of hand and life threating.
Pray for me all.
Ahappynut
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51222: Millie thanks for cooking supper,love those dumplins,been busy here at work,hey possum,M-T,ro,boo,TOM,Rev peg and all...well rain here in ga for the next few days...back in a bit ...SPOT
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51223: Prayers for Ro as she awaits the results from Plum. . .we all love that little furkid Ro, he's one of the family.

hm
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51224: Well, I don't think anyone should leave.
Are we going to start censoring ourselves and our opinions? If we do that we might as well call this the socialist porch, where only the state is allowed to have an opinion. Generally, socialism and communism go hand in hand.
Get that, Me-They?! ;)
(I don't want you to leave either.)

Prayers for you, Ahappynut. Get exercising right away, even if it just small walks at first. It will do wonders for your body and mind.

Chicken and dumplings sounds gooo-oood, Millie! Hope you are feeling fine!

-Sterling Holobyte
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51225: Ahem...Mr. HOLOBYTE: For your information, Mister Capitalist, socialism (an economic system) and communism (which, in its pure form is political, economic, and in fact covers all facets of life) do not necessarily go hand in hand. You can have a democratic country that is socialist. France is a socialist country. Okay, bad example. ;) And censorship is not a socialist (economic) issue, but a political one. So nya, nya.

Seriously, the Christian socialist movement has been around for well over a hundred years. I'm not card carrying or anything, but it does have some appeal to me. Basically, (and very generally) the line is that if you have Christians who make up a state, the economic systems of that state should reflect Christian teachings, i.e. take care of widows, orphans, the poor, not reward wealth for its own sake, land should be used in the best interest of the community, etc.

Oh, and I'm not going anywhere. Unless my wife tells me to.

Chicken and dumplings, yum! Of course, under my system we all get an equal number of dumplings...

Me-They
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51226: Hi All.
Millie- just pass all the dumpling my way.
love tom
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51227: Hey!

M-T
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51228: you can just have one m-t
tom
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51229: Andy: "You have offended the dignity of my robes!And I don't even want to tell you what the fine is for that!!"

Peg
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51230: Ah, but don't most communist countries(China, Russia(before they became "democratic" - yeah, right) adopt socialism, because it fits so well with their ideals?. Saying that socialism is just an economic issue, you're just splitting hairs in my book. And that's Floyd the barber's job.;)
And yeah, you may be promised an equal number of dumplings, but you have to stand in a long line to get them, and by the time you get to the front, they are all out. ;)

"Mister Capitalist" ...I like that! :)

-Sterling Holobyte
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51231: no you just have to know the cook to git all of thim dumpling.
So stay 10 ft behide me.
tom lol

April 11, 2007 - Msg 51232: But! Mister Capitalist, in a true Communist state, Christian socialist ideals (like maintaining widows and orphans) is counter to the Darwinistic "survival of the fittest" component.

And, hey, you can have the shirt off my back, but don't try and take my dumpling. And TOM, free dumplings are always better than ones I have to cook myself.

Me-They
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51233: afternoon porchesters, been a busy few days but thought I would stop by for a minute. I wanted to see if there was any newson the Plum. guess we are still in a waiting period. My computer at word had a melt down and lost about 2 weeks of my schedule. It has been a challenge the past 2 days in trying to remember who hs been in and where they need to be in the next few weeks. I think I have about taken care of things but my brain is only able to remember so much. Thanks for the chicken and dumplings Millie. Hello to everyone on the porch today. Prayer for all. How about an afternoon snack of milk and oreo's and
then a nap I think. see you all later. Big Maude
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51234:
Checking in to see if any word on Plum.

M-T...you are a mess....in a good way! Keeping us all smiling and not knowing when you are serious or not.

Millie...chicken and dumplings....I may come over a little early to make sure I get some. Tom be sure to watch M-T.

Spot...don't work too hard. Missed you at breakfast. Don't need to be skipping those meals.

Well better go for now. I'll check back later. Prayers for all the porch.
-REV.
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51235:
Hey Maude...didn't mean to rock on your toe. The snack sounds good.
-REV.
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51236: Good moulage, fellas. Again, my ignorance prevents me from saying much but I have a question. Me-They, I understand about the good of Christian values and providing for widows and orphans, but under a socialist government, would it be forced, so to speak? I'm thinking that what is so tremendous about our Christian faith and great about our nation, is the free will to do good and right motivation. Does that make sense or am I out in left field?

Pass some of those chicken and dumplings...

Boo
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51237: M-T NO WAY I M GOING TO GIVE SOME OF THIMDUMPLING I HAVE TO DO ME COOKING TO.
TOM
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51238: But if you don't share, I'll have to eat that nasty leftover Hamburger Helper.....(voice fading) Please, have mercy!

Boo
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51239: Good afternoon, all. I don't want to rain on this friendly moulage, but I do have some news on the Plum. It is cancer, unquestionably. I don't have the full particulars, as I got this information from her own vet, not the surgeon who removed her spleen. I'm waiting now for him to call. However, Dr. Mike said it is cancer, and what was in her spleen was not the primary, it was metastatic lesions, meaning that it was spread from another location. Where, we don't know. I'll get more information later, and will let you know. Please keep praying for her, folks. Right now I'm very confused, not sure what's going to happen next, what long-term plans will be, whatever. This is so hard. --Romeena
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51240: Oh my Romeena, I am so very sorry to read about the Plum. She and you are both in my prayers as you face this trial. Please, please, please, let me know if there is anything at all I can do beyond my prayers. My heart goes out to both of you. May Gods blessings shine upon you.

Asa
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51241: Romeena,



Please know that my prayers are going up for you and the Plum. I know that fur-kid is so special to you, and God knows too. May His peace and comfort and strength be with you for whatever lies ahead.

Mary Wiggins
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51242: Praying for you and Sugarplum, ROMEENA. Take comfort in Him.

Me-They
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51243: Romeena-My prayes go out to you and plum, may God give you the strength to ovre come the thing that are a head for .
tom
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51244: So very sorry, Ro. Prayers continue.

Love,
Boo
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51245: So sorry, Romeena. We're all here for you. And so is God.

-Sterling Holobyte
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51246: Romeena, praying for you and your sweet companion. Know that the Lord is faithful when our needs are so great. Wish we could all be there with you.

Miss Peggy
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51247: Romeena , I am so sorry, keeping you in my thoughts. Dr Pindyke
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51248: Oh, that is not the news we've all been waiting for! Ro,I am so sorry to hear this. Remember,we are here for you. Miracles do happen. We'll be praying.
love,
possum under a rock
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51249: No, Possum, it wasn't what I wanted to hear, either. I just spoke to her surgeon, and he was not at all encouraging. He said there really isn't any treatment that can be expected to help her, and will likely just make her feel awful for no reason. I will talk with their oncologist, just for my peace of mind, but I'm not expecting any help. Both doctors did say, however, that it's possible she can have several months or even a year or two of decent life, before a decision must be made. One thing I will do, when the time comes, I will love her enough to let her go. I won't keep her here in misery for my own selfish reasons. When quality no longer exists, quantity no longer matters. Thank you, all of you, for your loving support, and please keep praying for her and for me, friends. We're both in a very dark place right now. --Romeena
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51250: Sorry, Romeena. Elmer and Ruth in Oh.
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51251: You can count on those prayers, Ro. We love you both.

Boo
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51252:
Ro...I'm praying for you both. You have been and will continue to be in my heart and prayers.
-REV.
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51253: Romeena, I am so very sorry for you and the Plum. We all love you both and will all pray for you both. God will give you both the strength you need to manage through whatever happens. Big Maude
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51254: I believe that, Big Maude, but He needs to hurry up. I'm falling apart here, and I have to go to work in a few minutes. --Romeena
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51255: Elmer and Ruth, thank you. Even though you are "lurkers", you're part of the porch, and I appreciate your concern. Other folks lurk too, and that's fine. There's room for all. --Romeena
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51256: Oh, Ro, I'm so sorry. Lots of payers for you and the Plum.
Millie
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51257: Just got home from work, and read the news. I am so sorry, Romeena. I feel so bad about it, I am at a loss for words. God Bless you during the road ahead, Ro.
- Hazel
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51258:
Hi all, wow, did I miss something? I hope nobody is leaving! I have been very busy these days, and havent been on as much as I like.
Me they- For a peacenik, I think you're and ok guy! ha
Spot, MD, Rev, ASA, racing in Romeena's neck of the woods this weekend in fort worth. Lets all head to her place for a BBQ. Whadda say RO!?
BOO- how did you Easter service go with the girls? You sure had my prayers going up!
Well, a big God Bless Ya all, and be careful with that elixer!
MDC
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51259:
OOPS! sorry Ro for me not reading all the messages before posting mine. I just skimmed and did not see that part about Plum. My heart goes out to you and her! And my prasyers are indeed with you!
God bless (and that aint easy saying with booth feet in mouth!)
MDC
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51260: Romeena- I'm so sorry sweetie. I can only imagine your pain. You both are in my prayers. Let us know if there's anything we can do.
Auh20- Please don't leave. I'll be honest with you about something. I have little to no idea about what's going on in the world and don't care to, so I skip over the politics talk with everyone. I feel like there's more to life than that malarchy.
Well, I really need this day to end. It was a doozy. I'll tell y'all more about it later.
Blessings,
~Lucy
April 11, 2007 - Msg 51261: MDc- I think Romeena would like that all of us to come to her place for a bbq.
It will show her how much we all love her and the plump to.

( HELP ME GOD)
Please help me, God,
Accept, not judge
Nor criticize my friends.
Help me show them love,
Like You show me,
And forgiveness without end.
Help me not to cast a stone,
But to look within myself,
And every time I seek to fault...
Set that stone upon a shelf.

LOVE TOM.
PRAYER FOR EVERYONE WHO CAN US THIM.

April 11, 2007 - Msg 51262:
Hello porch family. Still a little messy here in SC.

Spot....The Braves did it again tonight. The last time they were 7-1 they won the World Series. Looking good!

MDC...yep, should be a good race in Texas. I forget who you pull for? I'm hoping Kenseth has a good week. Got a question: I know Phoenix is a big area but have you ever heard of a church called Starlight Baptist Church in the Phoenix area? Just wondering, it's been a few years ago but I remember doing several concerts there.

Well I guess I'll get back to Sanford & Son. Fred wants a color TV. You all have a good night and remember that Jesus loves us so much. He is our strength in time of need.
-REV.
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51263: Wonderful poem, TOM. Thank you.

Boo
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51264: Morning porch, just checking in for a minute. continued prayers for Romeena, the Plum and for
Millie and everyone else around this porch. I will take care of lunch for us today: grilled ham and cheese sandwiches, chips of choice, brownies and lemonade. see you all at noon. Big Maude
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51265: Gosh thanks Millie for lunch, we are putting in a new system here at work and its kept me jumpin!..hey all....great poem TOM,hey Boo,MDC its gona be a good race week and what about my atlanta braves!best record in the majors!..7 and 1...go braves..its gona be our year!...well let me get back to work...SPOT
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51266: Good morning everyone.

ROMEENA: I hope that you didn't have too hard of a night at work last night. Our prayers follow you wherever are go. Remember, He has a plan.

See y'all at lunch. Thanks, MAUDE.

Me-They
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51267: Romeena, we prayed for you as a group in church last night. You are continually in my thoughts.

I mentioned a few days ago that my nephew from California brought a nice girl to meet us. Well, last night he announced that they had eloped to Reno a month ago so they are married. She's a real nice girl.

Well, have to go check on Sean. The homeschooling is going well so far. I am enjoying the time with him.

Be back later.

Boo
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51268: SUPPER MENU: grilled chicken breast with Rev bbq sauce,grilled [in husk] corn on the cob,baked beans with slices of thick cut bacon on top,dinner rolls with real butter,Big Maude slaw,Millie apple pie with homemade butter pecan ice cream,sweet tea...and a tear frol my roll of paper towels!..will lite the grill at 6:00 est...gosh this place has been a zoo at work today
big wheels trying to install a bunch of new soft ware,not to much avail.....prayers to all in need Rev braves again tonight!...
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51269: that was me SPOT
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51270: All that food is fating
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51271: Spot-I will take a big bow of the butter pecan ice cream and abig glass of sweet tea please.

love tom

April 12, 2007 - Msg 51272: Hey porch, beutiful day here at the beach. Continuing to pray for Ro and Plum.
Mil
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51273: RO How is plum doing today?
tom

April 12, 2007 - Msg 51274:
Tom is going to have a sugar high with all that ice cream and sweet tea.

I'll check back later. See ya at supper. Praying for you all and tell someone about Jesus today!
-REV.
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51275: Boy, I sure wish Romeena would check in. I know she worked last night and is probably feeling tired and overwhelmed today, I'm worried about her.
Ro, we're here for you!
Much love,
Millie
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51276:
Well, this time I read things first!
REV- I have never heard of that church, but I bet they are in the phonebook! ha
Let me know if you come this way again!
SPOT- my Diamondbacks have a good run out of the chute as well. Will be a good season.
Millie- How are you doing these days!
TOM- boy, I sure do owe you a letter dont I? But I guess the porch also serves as a good place to converse.
Colt is doing well, I just got another nice letter from him. He is the only "library" internet mayor around! ha
Prayers continue for RO and plum.
Good to see Maude, Boo and all!
Have a super day!
Mr Darlin's Cuz
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51277: Well, I'm kind of frustrated today. Erin brought home 9 pages of homework, all requiring alot of writing! I think that teacher of her has finally cracked up. This is the note she sent home today and I can make no sense of it, maybe one of you can: "Erin has reading, writing and numbers work to do at home. I also found out as the bell rung that she did not do her seatwork (whatever that is) at all. This will have to be taken care of tomorrow." I don't know what seatwork is and the note is vague. Erin cried when I asked her about it and said that she can't read and that she is afraid because the teacher told her she was going to do her work in the priciple's office tomorrow. I don't know what's going on but I wish the teacher would have given me more information. I guess I will have to go to school in the morning and find out. I've just about had it. Now I will have to spend all evening battling a 5 yr old over hours of homework. Erin also brought home another report card this week with mostly D's. The teacher only has 4 kids in the class. Honestly, I think something may be wrong. I noticed that yesterday the woman looked like she was so tired she was about to drop. Once again, I am stuck with the dilemma of not knowing what is going on or what to do about it. It's hard to get accurate information from a five year old! Help! Any advice out there? Should I just forget about all the homework, because there is no way it will all get done anyway.

Well, better go crack the whip again.

Boo
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51278: Romeena I am so sorry about the Plum, I know it is so very hard to deal with, one thing about these furkids of ours, they sure can get into our hearts & never stay as long as we want them to. I sure hope the vet can get her fixed so she can stay with us ALOT longer! My thoughts and prayers are with you both.
*Mavis
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51279: Mr.Darlin's Cuz win are you going to pay up on the letter writing.
I just love gitting letter from all me friends.

LOVE TOM

April 12, 2007 - Msg 51280: Good afternoon, everyone. Sorry I've been a bit "absent", but as you noted, I worked last night, so slept today and am about to go back to work. Then I'm off until Monday night. I left work last night at midnight and came home to medicate the Plum, then went back. Her pain pill was due, and I was not about to let her go without it. Fortunately, my unit manager understands. Good thing, because I've had done it anyway.

The Plum is doing fairly well. She has trouble getting to her feet, but once there, she can walk with very little difficulty. I don't know how much of that is hip dysplasia (not much, I think), or just a sore belly full of stitches, or whether the cancer is indeed active in her anal sacs and causing problems with her lower spine. We will be exploring all possibilities as soon as we get her stitches out, which should be early next week. Meantime, I just keep her medicated with Rimadyl to keep her comfortable. I can't stand for her to be in pain.

Tom, it's been so nice to see you posting so often, and joining in the discussions. Boo, I really admire the way you hang in there with the kids, even in the face of some pretty heavy challenges. Imagine, a five year old with nine pages of homework?? Honestly! And being graded down on "seatwork"? That's a lot of structure and responsibility for such a young kid. Doesn't sound to me like that teacher is too great. She has four students, and she can't handle it? What if she had 34, like a lot of teachers do? Would she even know if they were there?

Well, gotta run. One more shift, then back to focusing on the Plum. She says hey! --Romeena
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51281: Oh, good grief. When will I learn to proofread? First paragraph above - "Good thing, because I'd have done it anyway." Sorry. --Romeena
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51282: I enjoy posting to and reading a variety of subjects. A potentially sensitive topic such as politics is a good example. The problem here seems to arise when we resort to bashing or name calling. Politics is a subject that affects everyone, whether you vote or not. That includes everyone at the Front Porch, our families, our relatives, and our future generations. Not to discuss something this important will only result in ignorant citizens who make poor voting decisions. Offensive language is not necessary to make a politics discussion interesting and educational.
For those of you who still choose to leave, I wish you would reconsider. Your input is just important as anyone else's.

from Poor Horatio
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51283: To Boo Msg 51277, I have to be brief because of the censor. Seatwork are assignment to be accomplished while the student is seated at their desk in school. If your child can't read, then she can't follow the assignment instructions. Her teacher needs to know this before she falls behind too far in class.

from Poor Horatio
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51284: Hey guys! I am so ashamed I haven't been here in so long will you please take me back? I am 5 weeks from finishing my first year of teaching. It hasn't been that easy but its been educational. I hope next year will be better. Mama has been through 3 surgeries and radiation treatments since last summer for her cancer. Doing well now. Will be doing some reconstructive surgery in a couple of months. Its been quite a year.

I hope everyone else has had a better year than me. I will try to check in more again. I am sorry for my negligence.

Dixie Belle
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51285: BTW my fella I went on the date with back in August ( if any of you remember ) We have been dating 6 months now. He was very persistent and I gave in about October. He's really a great guy.

Dixie
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51286: Just a quick note....please be careful when you post font colors and the like. If you do it wrong...it breaks things. All's well now so don't worry about it...just be careful.

--Floyd
April 12, 2007 - Msg 51287:
Hello porch family.

Welcome back Dixie. Good to have you back. Also good that your mama is doing so well. And glad things are working out with your fella.

Boo...I know that this situation at school can make you pull your hair out. I really think that much homework is ridiculous. Praying that you can get a handle on all this before it gets too far. I agree with you, I would be at school the first thing tomorrow morning.

Ro...you make sure you get enough rest or you will get yourself down.

MDC...yep...the Diamondbacks are looking good this year. The Braves dropped one tonight to the Nationals. I couldn't believe it. They had a chance in the 9th with bases loaded but come up short. They are 7-2 now on the season.

Well, I better get going for now. You all have a wonderful night and know that the porch is in my prayers.
-REV.

April 13, 2007 - Msg 51288:

Ro, I am so sorry to hear about the Plum. Please know that my prayers are still going up -- for both of you.

hm, what's the cherry dessert? Sounds intriguing.

I'm not affiliated strongly with any party. I'd consider myself more a Democrat, but since I am conservative on certain issues, my votes are all over the place -- including for Independents. In other words, I yam what I yam. :-)

Boo, hang in there with the school deal. I know it can be awfully frustrating at times, but maybe once you speak with the teacher you'll be able to work out a plan to help Erin. (NINE pages of homework??)

Prayers for all...

~De§~
.
April 13, 2007 - Msg 51289: Good Morning,
I will sit and rock more later. Please say a prayer for Bryan and Nick as they are travelling to south GA for Nick's paintball tournament. They will return on Sunday.
Y'all take care!
Blessings,
~Lucy
April 13, 2007 - Msg 51290: Good Morning Porch, checking on the Plum this morning before I head out to work. Hey to Des (can't get the squiggly thing to work) Ya'll have a good day & Act like somebody will ya.
*Mavis
April 13, 2007 - Msg 51291: Didn't see ya there Lucy morning to you too, prayers for Bryan & Nick, will ya pass the bisquits?
*Mav
April 13, 2007 - Msg 51292: Morning folks. Hey Mavis, nice to see you here. Hope things are going good for you.

I hope Sugerplum is doing better this morning, along with Romeena. The outpouring of love and concern for both of you by all that are here is impressive. You are both thought of highly and loved dearly Romeena. I know you have noticed it, I hope it helps you with all your dealing with right now. I'm sure it does.

Des, are you calling yerself a sweet tater? I yam what I yam? LOL

Prayers for Bryan and Nick as they travel. Here's a mashed penny for them Lucy. :)

Good to see you Dixie. Glad your Mom is doing better. It does sound like it's been a rough year for you. But we all must endure some trials along with the good times. Glad your surviving the trials.

Good to see you Poor Horatio. Hope your girlfriend is doing better.

Well it's Friday so let's have a party for lunch. Meet at TGIF's. Spot's buying.

Asa
April 13, 2007 - Msg 51293: Welcome back, Dixie! Glad things are getting better for your mom.

Prayers for a safe trip for Bryan and Nick.

Thanks for the encouragment concerning Erin and school. I am not looking forward to going to the school this morning. Erin's teacher is always so frazzled and hurried that it's hard to talk to her in the morning. Wish me luck.

I had a bad dream that woke me early and I couldn't go bad to sleep so I am sleepy. Still have relatives in town that will be here soon, and homeschooling for Sean. Not much chance of a little siesta today. BUT, alas, the laundry is caught up! I'll just do a small load at the end of the day.

Boo
April 13, 2007 - Msg 51294: Okay Boo - This k-teacher of yours is absolutely ridiculous! Seatwork is work completed usually in the mornings that is review work. When I did kindergarten it might be a coloring sheet (to work on fine motor skills), an ABC dot-to-dot page, things to keep the skills sharp. Smiley stickers were given for a job well done. I don't think this teacher of yours is equipped to deal with her grade level. She should not have that much homework. School is a place to learn. It is not supposed to be a place where you are beaten down (esp. in kindergarten). You get yourself in there and withdraw her. You can do as good or better job than that teacher is doing. Erin should not cry about school. I wish I could come to Texas and be your advocate! My aide also agrees with me. I think you need to get radical with them.

Sorry that's my two cents worth. . .

hm


April 13, 2007 - Msg 51295: Mavis- Read mgs51280 it from Romeena it the last up date on Plum.
Welcome back MAVIS and DIXIE yo have bend miss from here.

LOVE TOM

April 13, 2007 - Msg 51296: Good morning, all. Just got home from work. Yes, Asa, I'm keenly aware of all the kindness and love that has flowed toward me and the Plum these last couple of weeks. I'd love to thank everyone personally, or at least individually here on the porch, but I'm so afraid I'd miss a name, so may I just say a big thank you to everyone collectively? Your prayers and support have meant so much. While I do know pretty much what the outcome is going to be for the Plum, I don't know when, or what potholes we're going to encounter in the road along the way, but the support I receive here will help a lot, and will strengthen me so that I can try to help her. She's such a patient and sweet little thing. To my joy, she was standing at the bedroom door to greet me this morning when I walked in. That's an improvement. We may have a little quality time left to us yet, who knows?

Dixie, it's good to see you, and nice to hear that you're a sure-'nuff teacher, with students and all! I'll bet you're a crackerjack, and I wish Boo could put Erin in your class.

PH, you're right, of course. However, I have always been a bit too verbose for my own good, and especially when it comes to a subject about which I feel strongly. I sometimes speak (or type) before I think, and I get in trouble when I do. So, it's easier for me just to try to keep quiet, because there is not one soul on this porch that I could hurt and not feel terrible about it.

Well, I'm beat. I need to go feed my little Plumster, and lie down for a while. It's a gray and dreary day here this morning, good sleeping weather, and I think I'm going to do just that! Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
April 13, 2007 - Msg 51297: Thank you, Homemaker, It would be wonderful if you were here. Sometimes I'm unsure of myself and wonder if I am making too much of things. I took her in to school this morning because she kept telling me she had to go to the principle's office. Her teacher was busy but I was able to speak to her long enough to determine that the teacher had told her that if she didn't finish her homework, she would have to go to the (is it principle or principal?? I forget..) office. The teacher did at least assure her that she didn't have to worry because she finished her homework. I'm not sure what is going on and I have wanted to take her out of school but she wants so badly to stay and be with her friends. Erin is one of those very social children who never meets a stranger and it's tough for her to be here at home all day. Maybe there is more damage being done than good, though. I am going to talk to Bruce about it tonight. Please pray for God's will.

You are welcome, Ro. Hope you get some good sleep.

Boo
April 13, 2007 - Msg 51298: Good morning everyone. I hope that you all got up on the right side of the bed this morning, said a prayer, had your coffee (or tea), and a doughnut (Crispy Crème!).

BOO: In Nora’s Kindergarten class, seatwork was as HOMEMAKER described. The teacher usually had students did it while she worked individually or in small groups on reading. That way, she was able to concentrate on a few kids while the rest were getting reinforcement on what they had learned. Most of the stuff she brought home last year (seatwork) was counting or simple learning to read stuff that had “fun” components built in (like coloring, dot-to-dots, etc.). Since Nora did A-Beka, too, I find it odd that it used by Erin’s teacher in such a way. Her teacher corrected seatwork (noting mistakes), but never graded it. And, like HM mentioned, an encouraging note or sticker always was attached. Sounds like Erin’s teacher is either ill-prepared to teach the grade or on the down-side of burning out. By the way, did you change schools yet? Is this the new one?

DIXIE: Great to hear from you! It has been a long time. Tell you what, though, there’s not we won’t forgive if dessert is part of the penance. So fill us in on details! And this time, let’s not stay away so darned long.

HORATIO: It is nice to hear from you. Your advice is always so concise and intelligent. Stop around more often.

TOM: I agree with ROMEENA; it’s great to see you loafing on the porch more often.

ROMEENA: Get some sleep today! Too little sleep tends to make a body less rational and more emotional. If anybody can keep a clear head it’s you, I’m sure, but even you need to take care of yourself. We’re all praying for you and Sugarplum.

On a similar note, I don’t think I mentioned it, but my grandmother is going in today for surgery to have her gall bladder removed. Please keep her in your prayers. Also, her cat, which is 18 years old, is dying. She’s been going downhill over the last year. She has several (eventually terminal) issues that the vet has recommended to let run their course (because of her age and the nature of the illnesses). She is having seizures several times a day, but they don’t seem to have any lasting effects. She doesn’t seem to be in any pain, still eats, and uses her litter box, so there’s no real compelling reason to do anything drastic yet. But, my grandmother is quite upset, as you can imagine. When the time comes, one way or the other, it looks like I’ll be the one who has to deal with it. Of course I’ll do it for my grandmother, but I’ve had to face this difficult duty four times in five years.

AUH2O: Where are you, you ole’ Libertarian?

Prayers for all.

Me-They
April 13, 2007 - Msg 51299: Boo, do you know any of the other parents of children in Erin's class? Maybe they are having the same troubles with too much homework for such a young age. Get enough parents complaining to the principal and you may get some things changed. That teacher sounds like she doesn't know how to teach, just to give homework.
I am having some concerns with Kai's school as well. It doesn't involve too much homework(thank God they are sensible about that), but more about certain parts of the curriculum.

Well, I better get going. I have another job interview at 10:00. Hopefully I will hear something from them afterward. Wish me luck!

Prayers for your grandmother, Me-They. That has to be pretty stressful for her - Going through surgery AND knowing that your beloved pet is going downhill.

Anyway, looks like it is going to be a pretty nice day here today. Almost all the snow that we just received is gone, and it is supposed to be in the 50's so I guess that should take care of the rest of it.

-Sterling Holobyte